Butler began fishing when he was very young at a creek just outside his home in the town of Fort Lewis, Washington. At age four, he remembers his first experience with fishing.
“One day after the rain, there had been high water and sticks had come down the creek and created a mesh of twigs,” said Butler. “Inside, there was a rainbow trout. Then, we were able to fish twenty yards from our house for rainbow trout.”
Fishing for rainbow trout has remained a part of his life into his adulthood, and now Butler shares his pastime with his own family. Butler has fished in areas of the Shenandoah Mountains, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and the Adirondacks. He usually catches rainbow trout, admires their beauty, and then releases them back into the water.
Also, Butler saves money to travel with his family every few years to the Pacific Northwest to fish in the areas near his hometown. He especially enjoys fishing in the secluded areas of Montana.
“Ennis, Montana has some very big rivers. However, the town is so spread out, you hardly see anybody other than who you’re fishing with,” said Butler. “There is also an abundance of wildlife including giant moose and other neat critters.”
Butler recalls one time in Montana and he considers it his favorite fishing memory.
“I went hiking and fishing with my cousin and college roommate,” said Butler. “We had veered off to a remote area called Big Hole River in southwest Montana. From sun up to sun down, we were the only humans there. It felt like we were in a postcard and every place we went was unbelievably beautiful. After a thunderstorm, we saw some 19th century homes that hadn’t been occupied in over a hundred years. We felt like explorers and caught tons of rainbow trout.”
Fly fishing requires a special type of rod. A fly rod is very similar to a regular fishing pole, however an artificial fly is attached to the end of it. These flies are usually hand made into insects that are attractive to the specific species of fish in the area.
“There is a science component to fly fishing,” said Butler. “I’ve had to learn about insects and create flies that are appealing to the fish. I’ve had days where there are rainbow trout visible all around me. However, none are taking the bait. It’s frustrating. However, it is still a great pastime.”
Fly fishing also requires a special technique in order to reel in fish. There is no “reeling in” and the method allows for quick and efficient fishing.
Butler enjoys the calming setting the most while fishing. He loves the beauty of the natural world.
“It’s quiet and peaceful to be outside,” said Butler. “Fishing allows me to appreciate the gifts of nature. I love to go out and get lost in all of the natural surroundings. Not only are there beautiful fish, there are other creatures that enhance nature’s beauty too. I am very thankful that I am able to connect with god’s great design.”
