Watch the latest videos from HFF’s Membership Meeting, featuring key updates and discussions on conservation efforts and the future of the Henry’s Fork watershed.
Dr. Rob Van Kirk delivered an insightful hour-long presentation on the multifaceted topic of river health and the important work of the Henry’s Fork Foundation (HFF). Throughout the session, he explored various trends affecting the river’s ecosystem, including climate shifts, changes in hatch patterns, and how these factors impact both fish populations and fishing conditions. Dr. Van Kirk also highlighted the collaborative efforts and partnerships that HFF has fostered over the years, sharing key accomplishments that have contributed to the sustainability of the watershed.
The presentation was not only informative but also deeply personal, as Dr. Van Kirk reflected on his 40-year relationship with the Henry’s Fork. He shared poignant memories, beginning with his first fishing trip as a young boy with his father and brother, a moment that sparked his lifelong connection to the river. As he wrapped up the presentation, he gave a heartfelt nod to the mentors and individuals who have influenced and guided him along the way. He even touched on a recent, memorable fishing day just a few weeks ago, underscoring the enduring impact the Henry’s Fork has had on his life, both personally and professionally.
Visit HFF’s YouTube channel to view highlights from this year’s 40th Anniversary edition of the Annual Membership Meeting. You’ll also find recordings from the weekly summer seminar series, which, this year is a series of panel discussions where Henry’s Fork experts talk all things Henry’s Fork — hatches, climate, history, collaboration, water quality, and much more.
I know my last blog post left you on the edge of your seat. Today I’m going to answer the question that has doubtlessly been on everyone’s minds: did I catch a fish? Let me tell you, it was getting down to the wire. I’d been out many times with the incredibly patient Claude, to no avail. Not even a bite. Claude’s patience was really commendable as I stubbornly, astoundingly refused to improve.
As my time here at the foundation wraps up, I have been doing a lot of reflection. As such, I have concluded that the amount you can learn in one summer internship is unrivaled. It can range from scientific technical skills to office interpersonal skills, and anywhere in between. Some things are self-explanatory, and some are learned through trial and error. This range is what makes internships so valuable. I’ve compiled a list of the
Putting in the hours. Credit: Estelle Edwards Fish are omnipresent. Whether Claude’s talking about his latest catch, an angler is asking me what fly to use (I don’t know), or I’m taking Utah suckers out of gillnets, I am drowning in fish… but I have never caught one. I have yet to be blessed with a bite on a Parachute Adams, Zebra Midge, or Montreal Whore, but thanks to fishing-adjacent research experiences, I’ve gotten a
I grew up fishing on the North Carolina coast. From flounder and speckled trout (not actually in the trout family) deep in the creeks to Spanish mackerel and bull redfish right off the beach, all the way out to what feels like the middle of the ocean trolling for king mackerel and cobia, I loved the wide variety of fish. One sunny July morning a few summers back, my dad and I headed offshore in
