Old friend.

I have something shameful to admit. During my time in Montana, I fell in and eventually out of love with the Westslope Cutthroat. I fell in love with a larger, more piscivorous non-native in the form of brown trout.

Maybe love is a strong word. I became jaded. Westslopes came easily and when their genetics were mixed with the non-native rainbows, it sometimes resulted in a dull appearance. I still respected their place in the larger native ecosystem, but I wasn't overjoyed when I caught one.

I was underwhelmed by their appearance. After nearly a year away from waters that hold westies, I am back on the Westslope bandwagon. They say absence makes the heart grow fonder. It's true.

I love you, Westslope Cutthroat.