Join us “behind the fin” with Michele White, V.P. Government Affairs, Pikes Peak Chapter of Trout Unlimited and Owner-Operator of Tumbling Trout Fly Shop in Lake George, Colorado.
How long have you been a TU member?
Since 1998.
Why did you become a member and what chapter are you involved with?
I became a non-participating member because I wanted my money to be used in a donation capacity toward protecting trout habitat all over the United States.
What made you want to become involved with TU?
I met the people in our Pikes Peak Chapter and I realized that I like them...
What is your favorite activity or project you have done with TU?
So many... I would almost say teaching fly tying hands down but when I am out on a river helping a group of people do some really laborious task (like harvest and plant willows) - I really do enjoy myself. (Sometimes I cook at the grill for groups and sometimes I man a booth, I like that too...)
I know you won’t tell me your favorite spot, but what is your second favorite place to fish or favorite fishing story?
Some fishing stories are about places, boats, bars, trucks, and dogs. Michele White, who writes under the name, Michele Murray, has submitted a humorous essay for Trout Unlimited readers to enjoy from a compilation of short stories written by three authors (Michele Murray, Al Marlowe, and Karen Rae Christopherson) in “Between the Rivers” – stories about adventures that happen on the road, at the campsite, in a bar, as well as during the fishing trips. “Joe’s Bar” is a tale in common with most fishing people living the dream.
What does being a part of TU mean to you?
I am part of the solution. Being part of TU means I am contributing to the preservation of riparian habits, not only for trout but also for other wildlife and to the enhancement of recreation for humans.
What else do you do in your spare time or work?
I have a close family and I spend a lot of time with my loved ones. That said, in my spare time I paint, I write short stories, I play the bassoon, I hunt upland game birds, and I ride my horses. The writing has played out as an alternate sub-career / hobby, in that I have multiple books now. The latest is under review for print, "BETWEEN THE RIVERS - FLY FISHING STORIES OF THE WEST". It may be ready by Christmas. In the meanwhile, I have copies of "Lesser known Fly Fishing Venues in South Park" for sale in my shop and online. This is a 71 page map booklet (atlas) with color maps, images, and description of every free public fishing access in South Park basin excluding the Dream Stream and Eleven Mile Canyon.
