The Northern California Fly Fishing Board

DUDES! (and Dudettes),

Exercise your bodies!! It's been 6 years since my last hike to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and, by some coincidence, it's been 6 years since I've done anything for my cardiovascular system.

Now, at 53, I'm suffering, trying to knock this abused bod into shape for my June hiking/fishing trip in WY. After 2 weeks of power walking with full pack on the flats, I ventured into the mountains today, sans pack. Man, my quads are screaming, and I sure did a lot of huffing and puffing for 20 minutes uphill. I had my cell with me and figured if I collapsed I'd just say "Ramsey Canyon" after dialing 911 and maybe they'd get to me in time.

Bottom line, take care of what you've got NOW. Some of the best fishing requires hiking, or at least long walks to great spots. My weight ain't too bad, it's the lack of exercise that I've got to overcome.

Just my two cents.