Recently, a friend of mine let me borrow a DVD called Rivers of a Lost Coast.  I heard through the grapevine that the film had a marvelous production value, well referenced historical data and loads of archival photos and film.  I was not to be disappointed with this offering from the boys and girls over at Skinny Fist Productions.

First and foremost is deserves note that I may not be the most skilled with the fly rod, and well without the years of experience that is reflected so well in this film.  I have only recently taken to the fly rod and for most of my life considered myself an avid fisherman.  Growing up primarily in Central California and the surrounding areas, I grew up hearing stories of my home river the San Lorenzo being this huge mecca for the fly fishing, steelheading, and salmon communities throughout the 50's and 60's.  Having not been born until 1971, I obviously took some of these stories with a grain of salt.  My grandfather introduced me to fishing, and his tales would amaze me, and make me wish I had a time machine to experience those days.

Since my own experience on those rivers was well after the fallout of the resource management issues these wonderful fisheries are now facing, I cannot help but think that even my small efforts in volunteering for Trout Unlimited will in some way make a difference here in the Deschutes Basin.  The combined efforts of Trout Bums, Competition Anglers, Resource Managers from Government Agencies, and devoted Conservationists in this film is well scripted and allows the viewer to feel that connection we all share with our love of the outdoors.

If you aren't really in to the whole political, socio-economic, conservationist aspects this film touches on, you still have plenty of great fishing stories, wonderful filming and photography, insightful commentary and interviews and an excellent message of hope to take away from it.  I highly recommend everyone take a look at this film.  As well, the DVD includes a wonderful 40 page insert with illustrations, photos, and even more biographical data and stories about those who are featured players in this dynamic documentary.

Great work by the team at Skinny Fist Productions, and I hope to see more of your projects to come.  To find out more on this film and scheduled showings, visit their website and find out more.  You can also follow them on Twitter and Facebook as well as MySpace.