The Apache Trout. What can I really say about this fish? I'm kind of afraid I'm going to come across as "that ass of a white guy writing about native people as if he knows something about them" when writing about this fish.

But I'm not that guy. I did catch a few of these, on the White Mountain Apache reservation, on my second visit to the rez. My first visit was a horrendous and fishless disaster, a complete and utter defeat the mental scars of which are only salvaged by my fond and grateful memories of the kindness of the Apache people.

The second visit was with my brother, and we caught some fish. Historically, these fish no doubt grew big and lived in many habitats now dominated by invading species, but as of now, they lurk in only a few small waters and hold tight to cover. If you see 8 inches of water running along a grassy bank, drop a hopper or a caddis in there and watch. One of these guys will probably rush out and grab it.

A fine fish, beautiful and strong and ready to do battle, lean and raw, full of life and defiance.