Run Hard. Fish Harder. Save Trout.

I’ve once again signed up for the Vermejo Ranch Flyathlon in New Mexico, which means I will soon be attempting the noble sport of running up mountains, catching trout, and drinking beer. Those are the three official events, and I take all of them very seriously.

The Flyathlon supports Running Rivers, a nonprofit that funds conservation projects for native trout and coldwater fisheries across the West.

Last year, I participated in the inaugural Vermejo race and saw something truly special firsthand: streams where Rio Grande cutthroat trout have been fully restored after years of conservation work. Native fish back in native water. It’s the real deal.

Running Rivers helps fund the on-the-ground work that makes it happen: habitat restoration, fish passage, and protection of the cold, clean water these fish need to survive. A lot of that work happens right here in Colorado as well.

These are strange times, and everyone is being thoughtful about where their dollars go. If you’re in a position to give, I’d be grateful for your support. Contributions to Running Rivers go directly toward tangible, practical conservation work — the kind that results in healthier rivers, stronger fisheries, and wild trout where they belong.

I promise to run hard, fish enthusiastically, and raise a celebratory beer to you somewhere in the mountains of northern New Mexico. ¡Las truchas dicen gracias!