Blue Skies, crisp clean air and snow blanketing a visibly pleasing mountain lake landscape is a wonderful experience most people don't get to enjoy. A feeling of euphoria walking across a frozen lake. Taking in the landscape at a unique angle of perspective as the snow crunches under your feet. The sun sets the mountains in a glow of glory as their most stunning features are most distinguishable. The sun lies low on the horizon, so there isn't much time before cold descends and slows comfortable travel.

My dad and I travel to a likely area where trout may hold, and it wasn't long before the fish showed themselves. Yellowstone Cutthroat, Brook trout, and potential grayling roam these waters, so we were excited to experience some fish. Through patience and careful hook sets, my dad and I caught a good quarrel of Cutthroats and one pretty Brook Trout. A cold brisk breeze sweeps over the trees and over my exposed face, damn I love that! The breeze as free as my humble spirit on this lake. I am warm despite being cold.....

The shadows of the treetops grow taller and starts to swallow up the last of the sun. Our voyage closer to the remaining sunlight was evident, but our adventure wasn't over yet. Still quite confident there was fish to be had, we tried our luck closer to the dam. After finding some fish, we assembled our ice hut and committed to the spot for awhile after the sun set. The hours passed quickly and the bite slowed. Our worked backs and numb feet eventually crept up to us, and it was time to go home. As I step out of the ice hut, the cold air opens up my nose and the bright moon captures my attention. Natures flashlight makes the lake glow white in awe. Stars above resemble a trouts spots in honor of a successful ice fishing day. Walking back in the great glow without the need of an artificial flashlight, destiny lights our path for us to see....Sky Joyner Pilago