Live More Now on the Rivanna

Rivanna River Charlottesville, VA

Welcome back to the blog. We're going to take a break from yapping about running and take about an oppurtunity I was presented to work with Buff on the 'Live More Now' campaign. I had to select something besides running and Buff supplied me with product to help make it happen.

"Disclaimer: I received several products to use and review as part of being a BibRave Pro. Learn more about becoming a BibRave Pro (ambassador), and check out BibRave.com to review find and write race reviews!"

Lets go running!

 And with that out of the way we can start our day. I decided Saturday the 12th would a good day to start this journey. I was already taking part in a trail 5k and could stop on the way home and go to the Rivanna River in Charlottesville and try my luck at Fly Fishing. Before my daughter was born I went fly fishing at least three or four times a month. I loved the fact that you had to work at it to catch anything. Once I started tying my own flies, I was 'hooked'. Catching a fish on something you made with string and feathers was just an amazing feeling. As the years went by I fished less and less, and when I did go it was to take my daughter fishing at the local farm pond. Finally I stopped all together.

Now I'm back and ready to go.

The 5k went well. It was mostly uphill on single track trails with lots of roots and rocks. I didn't see any danger noodles, but being in the middle of the pack I didn't expect to. Once the race was over and I drove back to town I went to the park and gathered my gear. The last few times I went fly fishing I was becoming a minimalist, just my rod, chest pack and snips and hemostat. I really should get into Tenkara with the little bit of stuff I carry.

When I first started I wanted all the gear, the vest all the tools, multiple rods and reels, waders, the whole bit. 90% of the time that stuff just sat in a closet. Or was thrown away or donated.

It was bigger in real life!

Anyway back to the river. I hiked about a half mile upstream and found a set of small rapids with large pools I could cast too. I waded in and after a few clumsy casts managed to hook my first fish, a pretty sunfish. I was using my Eclipse Gloves for the first time and was worried I would snag my line using them but they never got in the way. They kept my hands cool and sunburn free. They also worked well with the spiny fish I was catching. I moved further into the river and caught a couple of Smallmouth Bass but called it quits after several kayaks and canoes came through and scared everything away.

Nice Smallmouth.

All in all it was a great day. My Buff trucker kept  the glare out of my eyes and the mesh kept my head cool. I had a lot of fun, and have several more trips planned in the next few weeks.

Until next time, lace up and get out

Ben

You can follow me on Twitter and Insta, @bwachter70
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