2015 Trip Out West: Alcova/Grey Reef

Even though I couldn't fish, our plans didn't change. We spent 3 fun days scouting the wading access for flyfishing along the the iconic Grey Reef and Miracle Mile sections of the North Platte. Also, checked out the fly shops in Alcova and Casper. Lots of quality water available and I can't wait to get back. Each evening we drove to the same spot on a high bank above the river to observe the movement of all the wildlife at dusk - beautiful sunsets, with antelope, raccoons, pelicans, ducks, rabbits, deer, all feeding/drinking prior to moving on to their night time destinations.

 Alcova Inn: our cabin for 3 nights

 Alcova, WY; semi-arid and very colorful

 Grey Reef stretch on North Platte River view to the North

Same stretch, view to the South 

 Antelope getting a drink before bed time

 Raccoon family on their way to get a drink before bed time

 Pelicans are everywhere on the North Platte - who knew??

Big buck that sneaked up the hill above us

2015 Trip Out West: Enroute to Wyoming

This year our trip out west was sandwiched around another family get-together, this time in Saratoga, Wyoming. I had been wanting to fly fish several stretches of the incredible North Platte River, so we headed out a week ahead of the family gathering. Unfortunately, I had shoulder surgery at the end of June, so fishing was out of the question. But we decided to continue on with our plans and just enjoy being able to see some new places. We broke up the trip enroute with overnight stays in Lindsborg, KS, and Cheyenne, WY, which worked out well and allowed us time to enjoy the long drive.

 Swedish welcome banner

 Yes, it's in Kansas!

 Swedish Inn B&B Breakfast

 Fishing buddy Bruce Ritter, a Nebraskas native turned us on to runzas, sort of like a fried pie that we are used to, but with meat/veggie fillings - yummy!

 York, Nebraska water tower getting a new paint job - note the fella waving.  Brave souls!

 We like quirky eating joints with local flavor - this one in Cheyenne, Wyoming

 And this one in Casper, Wyoming.  These joints have been around a long time

Ugly Bug Fly Shop in Casper, Wyoming