In the same boat
“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’”
Fred Rogers
Every year for more than three decades, our friends at Orvis have recognized the best of the best in fly fishing through their Endorsed Lodges, Outfitters and Guides Program. It’s a prestigious thing to be nominated, and even more prestigious to be selected. The awards are presented at the annual Orvis Guide Rendezvous in the spring. Unfortunately, due to public health concerns and travel restrictions OGR 2020 was cancelled. Naturally, I was disappointed.
I was doubly disappointed this year, because all three nominees for Fly-Fishing Lodge of the Year were TU Business members. Two of the three nominees for Fly-Fishing Outfitter of the Year were TU Business members as well. But now the votes are in and the dust is settled, I must say that I couldn’t be happier.
The 2020 Orvis Endorsed Fly-Fishing Lodge of the Year is Healing Waters Lodge in Twin Bridges, Mont. Mike and Laura Geary know what it takes to make a great experience for their guests, and they do it every time. They also know that caring for the waters and the fish are an integral part of operating a world-class fly fishing lodge. Mike and Laura are truly part of the TU team. They are advocates for TU and conservation issues at many levels within MT and beyond. They’ve been very generous supporters of TU through their business, including donating their time and money to support our efforts to protect the Smith River and fundraising for other TU campaigns in Montana and nationwide.
The 2020 Orvis Endorsed Fly-Fishing Outfitter of the Year is Linehan Outfitting Company in Troy, MT. Since 1992, Tim and Joanne Linehan and the staff at LOC have provided an amazing experience for their guests in northwest Montana. The Kootenai and Clark Fork are their home waters, but they provide a wide variety of outstanding fishing experiences for everyone from seasoned anglers to beginners. And every LOC guest leaves knowing that conservation is part and parcel of that experience. TU never had more effective advocates than Tim and Joanne. They’ve made supporting TU part of their business plan, and we are humbled by their generosity.
Both Healing Waters Lodge and Linehan Outfitting Company are the helpers Mr. Rogers was talking about. They’re vital parts of the TU Team. They’re committed to our mission and to our success. And we’re committed to theirs. Check them out. Give them a call. They’ll be happy to hear from you. These are difficult times, but each of us can help all of us. Be a helper.
Healing Waters Lodge
Mike and Laura Geary
Twin Bridges, MT 59754
(406) 684-5960
hwlodge@gmail.com
www.hwlodge.com
Tim and Joanne Linehan
Troy, MT 59935
(800) 596-0034
info@fishmontana.com
www.fishmontana.com