2021 LAST CALL:
Let’s be honest, it has not been a memorable fly fishing year on our storied waters. As an erstwhile fly fisherman, guide, faithful angler, and lover of this incredible fishery, the lake has been quite unimpressive and let’s just say, a tad bit stingy, summer of 2021. From locals, to summertime Hooligans, to big time fly fishers, it took no prisoners. A perfect storm of consistently high temps, minimal snow pack, and potentially less 20”+ fish, and a worrisome proposal from the Idaho Game and Fish to open the lake year round, it has anglers wondering and concerned about the fishing future of our Idaho gem.
I had two very special days mid-July, that I was able to summon a few cutties to a dry fly, a size 18 comparadun, tied by my good friend Dean White. And other than a 20+ fish day by The Crabman, my favorite 2-fly rod client, it was a real short hi-lite film for the summer daze.
But wait, did someone say LAST CALL? Sure enough, September rolls around and the fishing, very slow but surely turns the corner, by October 1, it’s almost righted itself and katy bar the door, it’s fish on baby! A consistent bite on my purple prince leech , a few up to five pounds and say it ain’t so, but like the old song, sung by the Monkees, “I’m a believer, I couldn’t leave her if I tried.”
There is hard water (ice) already creeping in on the bays, this last cold front has the lake closing in on the last day or two to throw a fly. It’s a time for reflection and appreciation for the bounties we enjoy on this lake like no other.
Something I’m discovering as the years keep adding up, is that the clients and good friends that I spend time on the water with, I seem to exponentially, enjoy more. I’m fortunate to share this lake and to have onboard, lifetime friends that make outings memorable, no matter what the fish count may or may not be. My son, Justin and I have guided and fished together more this year than any other, and that alone, warrants special recognition, and indeed I am grateful for these opportunities.
I have teamed with incredibly skilled, competent, and knowledgeable Henrys Lake fly fishers, Gordon Knudsen, Damon Keen and my son Justin, and we make up Henry’s Lake Guide Service, guiding under the Eagle Ridge Ranch Outfitting license. We are very appreciative and respectful of our opportunity to guide on this extraordinary and sometimes challenging fishery.
Until next year, I hope you find the warmth of a good fire and enjoy life with friends and family!
Kevin Skenandore
Henrys Lake Guide Service
Henrys Lake Foundation Board Member
