Behind the Fin: Mark Hanson
How long have you been a TU member? I joined TU when I first moved to Colorado, about 10 years ago.
Why did you become a member and what chapter are you involved with?
I became a member of TU because of their strong conservation effort, responsible use of funds, and there are just some of the nicest people you can meet at a TU meeting.
I am currently a member of Purgatoire River Anglers, Chapter 100, in Trinidad, Colorado.
What made you want to become involved with TU?
As stated above, I love improving cold water fisheries and especially at the local level.
What is your favorite activity or project that you have done with TU?
That's a tough one! My favorite activities have been working with youth: as a counselor for the CTU Youth Conservation and Fly Fishing Camp and with our local youth here in Trindad, through our Fly Tying Knot and Boy Scouts.
I know you won’t tell me your top spot, so what is your second favorite fishing spot or favorite fishing story?
One of my favorite fishing spots is Rifle Creek, from Rifle Falls State Park to the State Access just below the dam at Rifle Gap Reservoir. I had the privilege of taking a young U.S. Marine lieutenant on a fishing trip to Rifle Falls State Park after his return from the middle east. Watching this young veteran catching trout at the falls is a great memory for me.
What does being a part of TU mean to you?
It means I get to partner with wonderful people who care about preserving not only our cold water fisheries, but the surrounding watersheds as well. I have been involved with many conservation groups and am pleased to see how careful TU is with the monies it receives. But who am I kidding: I get to meet and fish with some great people!
What else do you do in your spare time or for work?
Mainly I switch from being semi-self-unemployed and a trophy husband. I also am a camp cook for a hunting outfitter and a substitute teacher.