Happy Labor Day, here is hoping everyone has gotten their vacation trips in as we wind our way down past Labor Day. We were fortunate this year as my friends Noel, Mike and I were able to get everyone together for our annual trip to Colorado. It was the first time in three years that all were able to join me for the yearly pilgrimage out West. The fishing this year was maybe the best ever as we were finally able to be there for the elusive Green Drake hatch on the Frying Pan!

Every year it has always been…“You boys should have been here last week” or “It’s about two weeks away”. I fished the Drake dry for the whole week and maybe used a dropper twice.  Adding icing to the cake, we had a campfire every night as we watched the Colorado night sky put on a show. This trip was truly a blessing and was definitely a trip for the ages!

We are gearing up for a busy September and October starting with our next meeting on Thursday, September 22 at Dead End BBQ. I for one am looking forward to seeing everyone again and enjoying some great food and good friends!

Our first event for October is the return of the “Battle of Gatlinburg” on Saturday October 8th, 2022. This marks our fifth year for the “One Fly Battle Royale” tournament and is shaping up to be a great one already. We opened registration this weekend and already have almost half of our competitors in the first 72 hours. Remember this is limited to just 20 anglers so get signed up now and secure your place in the competition.

Most importantly, we also need you as a volunteer for the “Battle of Gatlinburg” that day. Streamside judges fill a vital role at the tournament as they simply measure the trout and enter the inches for the competitor. This is a terrific way for a volunteer to not only enjoy a few hours streamside but pick up some tips as the anglers compete. It is a great opportunity for a family to be a part of the event and kids can help Mom or Dad measure and release the trout back to the water. Send an email to: gsmtutenn@gmail.com and enter your name, best email and phone number and we will get you signed in.

October also brings us a Smokies Fall “Day on the Water” on Saturday October 15th, 2022. We have reserved the Twin Creeks Picnic Pavilion right off Cherokee Orchard Rd. in downtown Gatlinburg. The day starts at 10:00 am to 5 pm. and we will serve a hot dog lunch with all the fixins at 12:00 pm. Stay for a few hours or all day as this is kid friendly water and accessible to almost everyone. You may also explore a little farther up the Roaring Fork trailhead for a little more adventure. This is a rain or shine event as the Pavilion is covered with a roof, and we have locked restrooms for our use. See below for directions and information.

Remember to follow us on the GSM TU Facebook page and the chapter website. The Great Smoky Mountain Facebook page is the best way to follow us for the latest chapter information and changes. As always remember you never have to a Trout Unlimited member to attend our events or meetings, all are welcome.

GSM FACEBOOK: http://m.facebook. com/GreatSmokyMountainTU/

John Reinhardt

President