Week 29 - Old friends & New friends

Some weeks are remembered because of the number of fish landed.

Others are remembered because of the people you shared the river with.

Week 28 belonged to the second category.

Fishing was challenging. We lost a handful of salmon, landed one fish and experienced several moments that reminded us just how close success and disappointment often are in salmon fishing.

But when we looked back on the week, the fish wasn't what came to mind first.

Instead, we remembered the conversations by the river,  the quiet walks to the pools in the early morning and  the coffee shared on a riverbank while watching the water running wild. 

That is what keeps bringing us back.

One of the special things about Kengis Bruk is how quickly strangers become friends. Returning guests catching up, while first-time visitors are welcomed to the Kengis feeling that has been going on for years. By the end of the week, it feels less like a fishing trip and more like a group of friends sharing the same passion.

Of course, everyone dreams about the perfect week with fish in every pool.

But nature has never made those promises.

The river decides when it wants to give, and that uncertainty is part of its beauty and the game. Every cast is full of hope and every swing of the fly could become the fish you'll remember for years.

When fishing is difficult, preparation becomes even more important.

During the week we spent time fine-tuning tackle, discussing fly choices, sink rates and presentations. Small adjustments often make the biggest difference. Choosing the right rod, line and tip combination is really important. Confidence in your setup means you fish more concentratedly and it gives you more fishing time —and in salmon fishing that is really important. 

In the end, one salmon was landed. 

Several others escaped.

Yet nobody left disappointed.

We'll gladly take another week like this.

Tight lines,

Ville, Elias & Aslak

Photos: David