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Fisherman explains aquatic life
By Conrad Weiler

Bamboo rod flyfisher Stephen Kiley (left) stops by to discuss flies with Colin Paul at the Metolius River observation platform.

Colin Paul is the answer man for those learning about the aquatic life of the Metolius river.

Every Saturday summer afternoon, Paul sets up displays at the Metolius River observation deck across from the Camp Sherman Store from 1 to 4 p.m. Paul's educational forum is sponsored by Friends of the Metolius.

"I usually get 30 to 40 people stopping by each afternoon to ask questions or learn a little about the local river insects," Paul said.

Paul has maps, pictures and historical data to share with his guests.

He also has various aquatic insects in bottles to display life stages.

"Some people think the insects aren't very pretty but these are the ones the fish go after," he said.

The golden stonefly and green drake mayfly are particular favorites.

Oddly enough, you can't fish with the actual insects the fish like but have to use man-made flies.

"This is a wonderful river," said bamboo rod fly fisherman Stephen Kiley of West Linn. "The ecosystem is one of the healthiest I've seen and the number of fish speak to the quality of the Metolius River.

"I've been coming here for six years and enjoying it."

While fishermen conversed above, a large brown trout lurked just a few feet away, as if listening to conversations while idling in the cold (48 degree) Metolius water below the platform.

Over the sunny afternoon, several people stopped by Colin Paul's exhibits and exchanged questions with the Northern Arizona University forestry graduate.

Paul also sets up shop on Sundays, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Head of the Metolius parking area (off Road 14) to answer questions about insects or other topics.

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