I learned some things during my stream-fishing fly box build. Most notably that I know very little of this sub-category of the angling game. These folks are known to the larger (dare I say mainstream) community as streamers. Initially, it struck me that to be known by that handle must be a bit derogatory, but no, they seem to have grown rather fond of the moniker.
Now, if you are like me, your first thoughts went to the context of the name itself. If you are indeed a streamer, then does that mean that when you are out and actively engaged that you are streaming? Let me be specific - when they speak in their native lexicon do they say, "today I will stream", or "tomorrow I shall go streaming"? Very confusing to the larger quarantined population, like me, to which streaming means three episodes of Kim's Convenience tonight.
Along the way I have also learned other interesting details about the streamer lifestyle. For example, you are a streamer if -
- getting to know the local farmers is part of your pre-fishing trip planning,
- you do not care as much about the contents of your cooler as you do about the contents of your tackle box,
- you are seldom home at sunset in the spring or fall,
- Your most prized fishing equipment does not generate amps, horsepower, or digital fish images, and,
- the thrill of the hunt includes a machete.
This I wish for you to know. The fly box was a milestone birthday gift. A straight-forward build which, if properly designed, can fill a utilitarian need. Solid walnut, with hand-veneered burled walnut front and back panels that were purposely left with some of the 'alligator skin' texture inherit to that cut of the species. The kind of texture that can take you places when you run your hand across it. Stream on my friend, stream on.
Special thanks to JN for his early guidance and input, if it doesn't work out it is not because you didn't try!
Check out the finished fly box.
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