Here we have a pair of Minnesota fly anglers on a week-long June dry-fly trip across northern Michigan. Weather-beaten and unbathed, in damp waders and muddy boots, they’ve stopped at Gates Au Sable Lodge mid-afternoon for a cheeseburger and some flies. As we join them they are on the grass in front of the shop. One of them is casting a well-worn but beautiful rod, while the other holds the sock and tube.
TOM: Geez, I like it. What do you think?
ADAM: It’d be the nicest rod I own.
TOM: Me too. But you’re the one shopping. Wow, that does feel nice.
ADAM: No I’m not. I don’t need a new four weight.
TOM: Here, give it another cast or two. How often do you get to test-drive a used Thomas & Thomas? Check out the hand-painted logo.
ADAM: I guess it would make a good souvenir. To go along with my signed book.
TOM: Now you’re talking. And it would be perfect for those Southeast Minnesota streams.
ADAM: Also true. Are you seeing these loops?
TOM: It makes us look like good casters. You know, we’re only a few minutes from the Holy Waters. You could buy it and we could go christen it right now, before we have to post up for the night.
ADAM: Can’t argue with that.