Fog, Frost, and Chrome: A Morning on the Middle Klamath

Friends Of The River Board Member Garrick Chang in the Middle Klamath River

Written By Garrick Chang

Board Member, Friends of the River

As I wade into the river, a wispy fog rises from the burbling waters gently pushing against my knees. A deer breaks a branch while getting a drink. A bald eagle screeches overhead looking for fish too. It is cold— frost outlines the yellow and red leaves fallen to the ground and a faint band of snow caps the tops of the steep hills.

My tranquility is rudely interrupted by a violent tug on my line as the reel begins to scream and a chrome fish reflects the morning light rocketing out of the water. After a short tussle, I bring the most beautiful fish to hand. It is perfect. Sleek with a rose colored streak emanating from her cheek. I thank her and slide her back into the water.

She flicks her tail and splashes freezing water in my face—the fish equivalent of giving me the finger. I can only smile.