Threatened to have me arrested for Trespassing - A FLY SHOP sent us here!

In part 8 of the 9 week truck bed camping road trip, I'm fly fishing a stream that was gifted to me from a buddy who got it from a local fly shop. He dropped me a pin on google maps and said the property owner was cool with fly anglers crossing his fences. There were zero "no trespassing" signs or any other type of warning signs. Even saw another angler. Day 1 was great. However, I returned to fish here on DAY 2 and was confronted by the property owner, told I was illegally trespassing and threatened to have me arrested. I explained, everything I said above to him. The guy was furious and said that particular fly shop had done this several times but was definitely not legal. I didn't have any information to justify me being on this stream legally, so I apologized repeatedly and eventually we worked it out. I promptly left when asked! Be careful where you get your information on accesses...that was a close call!
I started my 9 week road trip on July 31, 2022, and spent roughly 3 weeks in WY, ID and MT. Check out all the videos from this trip in the playlist linked below:
2022 9-week road trip (WY.ID.MT) playlist:
• The Browns in this Wyo...
Find me here:
/ looknfishy
/ looknfishy
#fishing #camping #flyfishing

[@stevenm6301]

Dude could pull a trout out of a puddle in the WalMart parking lot.

[@kevincook8885]

I’m waiting for the Death Valley episode 😂

[@stevenm6301]

@@kevincook8885 Dude go to 9:25 in this video. That makes no sense to me. How are trout so good at blending in?

[@AzimuthTao]

@@stevenm6301 Evolution

[@silvertip8k278]

Rotisserie chicken...macaroni salad and a cold beverage is a meal for a king. .

[@silvertip8k278]

Onx can be a solid way to know you're ok...

[@tcbtcb]

To be trespassed you first need to be asked to leave by the property owner and then not leave or come back to the property after being told not to come back.

[@jigginwithryan5334]

Sometimes fly shops, guides, and other fly fishermen share spots that have posted property and I completely respect property owners and posted land. I commend you for keeping your cool because when most property owners deal with insane numbers of trespassers they tend to lose their cool. One thing I would recommend that you might like is GAIA maps. They have a mode where you can view private and public land and it will show you the boundaries. A lot of times I will ask landowners and they usually are cool with me fishing as long as I tell them I C&R. Love your videos, keep up the good work!

[@LooknFishy]

I'm usually more prepared. But just went on a suggestion. I've looked it up since and it's private property. Things change...might have been cool with the property owner last year. Maybe got frustrated...really have no idea. I was just happy to leave!

[@jigginwithryan5334]

@Mark Schmidt in certain states yes it is considered trespassing. NY is one of those states, no person shall trespass by wading in a stream or river owned by an individual on both sides, however you can take a boat in there if it is considered a watercraft navigable waterway without anchoring up.

[@jigginwithryan5334]

@Mark Schmidt hey dude, I live in NY, I fish from border line to border line, I know almost every river, stream, and trickle in the state. I have friends that work for DEC and the State, I think I know what I’m talking about. You need to get your facts straight, or come to ny and the what you’re saying, I can assure you you’ll walk away with a trespassing citation, that or a 12 gauge in your face.

[@jimgollach6202]

Wow! You dodged a good one there. I found a long time ago not to go by info from some fly shops. I don't ask them to much of anything, I don't even ask how the fishing is in the area. I buy what I'm looking for then hit the road. I know it's hard sometimes, but if you don't know, don't go. No trespassing signs would have been nice. Sometimes if you can call the forest service, they can provide you with some good information. It has worked for me. Thanks for sharing drew. Tight lines. 👍

[@LooknFishy]

I did...especially considering all I could say was my buddy told me it was OK to cross your property. Still not certain how it happened...seems like a terrible idea for a shop to get clients in trouble. My guess is there's more to the story. Ime, never gotten bad info from a shop.

[@ranglin6966]

Really enjoy your videos. Thanks for putting these together. Glad you got the LO issue resolved without LEs getting involved, that can make for a bad day. I use Onyx a lot to research and scout out places ahead of time. With the satellite view I’ve been able to find places to camp, specific places to fish and to hunt. Since it shows property boundaries I can make the decision to avoid or to see if I can get permission. Being able to download maps for offline use is very valuable. Trespass laws and signage requirements all vary by state here in the West. Some don’t require signage, only something like a fence or a ditch to mark a boundary. It’s unfortunate that a large portion of outdoor users are showing more and more disrespect for both public and private lands. And then if they have an accident they’ll sue. Can certainly understand the LOs concerns. Tight lines

[@OmaticFever]

Ultimately it is your responsibility to know if you are on private property.

[@NCflyfishingguides]

Another great video. I always respect posted signs, that said, I've run into 'supposed' landowner issues, but on very well known public access waters that had no clearly posted private property or trespassing signs anywhere. Sometimes people are full of you know what and want to try to bluff you off their favorite stream...sometimes they do have legit property claim. You did the best thing you can do apologize and move on.

[@briljantje9583]

Drew, I really appreciate your flyfishing adventures. Seeing a lot of US waters too (which I am planning to fish after retirement). Thanks pal!

[@LooknFishy]

That sounds like a solid plan!

[@schmoonkie]

Great fishing on that little stream. Too bad about the trespassing bit, but obviously you handled it well. I've read stories about some Wyoming landowners being very difficult even when it's an innocent mistake. I really like how you fish shallow spots that I might walk past. It was educational... Thanks for posting.

[@LooknFishy]

Yea, definitely feel fortunate to have avoided needing to explain my logic to a person with a badge!

[@toddodle8688]

Totally agree. Almost every video Drew puts out I am amazed at the spots he can pull a fish from! I have learned a lot watching and will look at all water differently.

[@alexs3447]

@@LooknFishy Very suspicious that you didn't see one sign. Cops would notice that and give you a break.

[@surfcruzer]

Great to see ur channel growing strong. Ur fishing is on point.

[@LooknFishy]

Definitely appreciated!

[@toddodle8688]

Amazing video as usual! It's too bad that land owner doesn't watch your videos to know how much respect you have for the land, water and the fish. He would tell you to fish there whenever you want!

[@LooknFishy]

I told him I was a Vet and he instantly became cool! Respect enough considering I had crossed his property lines!

[@michaelkissane6138]

Sometimes I wonder if certain locals aren't a bit diabolical about giving directions to out-of-staters that will get you in trouble if you follow them. My brothers & I had this happen in Idaho and the landowner was really angry. Afterwards, we stuck to public access and did fine, but it took the shine off an otherwise nice day.

[@AB-xp8im]

Great videos! Re: the angry landowner claiming you trespassed, did you follow-up with your friend and/or the fly shop? I'm aware of situations where "landowners" claim they own a property and don't, but just get upset and threaten to scare you because they have claimed "ownership" in their minds..it may actually be a lease or neighbor etc.,, just curious

[@Malcolm_Q]

Hahaha. I guided up in southeast AK in 2014 during a sabbatical. On down days I would explore rivers and was around many brown bears. I always talked to the unknown presence of bears too. "Hey bear!" "Thank you for letting me walk in your forest!" "Nice bear!" "Here I am... Walking down your trail... Thank you for sharing it with me!" Anything to let them know I was in their area and not surprise them. I did walk up on a brown in the creek with his back to me once. He obviously couldn't hear me. We saw each other 20 yards apart and he just walked to the other side and up the bank. A lot of similar experiences watching your great videos.

[@unclericker]

I Have OnX Hunt down loaded on my phone so I don’t have any question on where I am fishing or hunting it’s been very helpful showing me public and private lands, I also do a bit of research on stream and river access for the particular state that I am fishing in because those rules are different from state to state. I really enjoyed your video.

[@LooknFishy]

I have definitely started looking into it more. I spend nearly all winter researching my trips and usually have a good idea on access. This stream was a last minute favor after my original plans turned to chocolate milk. OnX would definitely be helpful in this situation!

[@ef2967]

Should have tried to make a deal with the property owner to maybe pay him to have your own private camp/fishing stream in the future. He doesnt own the water, if you actually walk down or up stream from a non private location, you just cant step foot on his land.

[@jakepage7383]

if its not properly posted you are not trespassing. ....if you stayed in the water and accessed it from public he can't say anything. In the United States, Congress stated in the Northwest Ordinance of 1787 that “navigable waters…shall be common highways and forever free.” The Commerce Clause to the U.S. Constitution, established in the 1820s, later gave to the federal government comprehensive powers over all “navigable waters.” If a stream or river is navigable, federal regulations and rulings apply......if you can float a log down it in high water no one can stop you from walking it.

[@LooknFishy]

Varies state to state. CO and Wyoming for example the property owner, owns the river bed and can legally restrict wading and anchoring on their property. But you can float thru since the water is owned by the state. The navigable part gets sticky and mostly left up to state courts to define. Ime, not worth the trouble. ..I just leave.

[@fredrickwaldon1579]

Yes sir but you said the words that negate all that.Navigable does not mean on foot.Like drew said you can float thru but can not set foot on ground wet or dry.

[@chriscapune7873]

Great day fishing 😀 Glad you were able to work it all out with the landowner 😬 Well done. 🐈‍⬛🐾🐈🐾🐟👍🍻

[@LooknFishy]

Staying calm and being polite almost always helps lol!

[@chriscapune7873]

@@LooknFishy 👍😀

[@AZ_Baggin]

Another great video. Regarding trespassing. Have grown up fishing in Montana /Wyoming/Colorado you find allot of new residents that dont know the state trespassing laws. They think they own the river because it passes thru their property. In Montana if you stay below the high water mark you are not trespassing and in Colorado the property line goes to the middle of the river, so you maybe fishing public access but you cross over the middle of the stream you may be trespassing. Also, property owners should mark the top of fence posted with orange paint so many feet to indicate private property or hang a sign. I have had property owners pull guns on me who actually didnt now the laws.

[@LooknFishy]

Yea, definitely becoming an issue more these days it seems. I'll share another interaction with a property owner in MT later in the series.

[@williamklein6749]

If a gun is pulled it doesn't matter if they know the law. I was in the right this summer in Utah and I had an owner pull up in his 4x4 and tapped the rifle in a sling on the side of the vehicle. I was traveling across his pasture to get to FS land and he didn't care. Threatened to shoot my dog. I turned around and left.

[@TheNewMediaoftheDawn]

You’re the king of Westslopes, a pretty rare fish most places…. I used to catch them in Southern British Columbia 20 years ago, same general area. Next to eastern brook, they are likely the most beautiful…

[@desertbrewcrew1974]

You should have yelled "Youll never take me alive coppers!!" hahaha. Thats crazy man. I dont blame the land owner though, stay safe out there, glad things worked out.

[@LooknFishy]

I don't either. Totally understand why property owners are protective of their lands. I get frustrated picking up other people's trash in my front yard!

[@georgebass2880]

I was out there a two weeks before you and couldn’t find a decent stream in Idaho. I fished the firehole and the gallatin in the park and did ok, but it was tough going. I headed to the Bahamas on 12/3 and doing a guided day trip there.

[@LooknFishy]

Bones sound really fun right now!

[@Lochsa89]

Its your responsibility and no one else’s to know where you are and to know relevant access laws. In Idaho as long as you are below the high water mark, you can go wherever you want. Not sure about Wyoming.

[@LooknFishy]

Definitely agree and said that many times in other replies. Ultimately it's on me which is why I didn't name the fly shop.

[@ericintampa9352]

no wonder the fishing was so nice, lol. the fly shop needs a ticket. appreciate it drew.

[@LooknFishy]

haha...gotta find a way to fish it legally...so many nice fish lol!

[@bmthoma6]

Pretty sure I fished this stream in July 2018. A friend told me about it. I have pictures of the rock formation at the 6:12 mark that seem to match. Caught a very nice cutty about 17" just above those rocks. I don't recall any no trespassing signs either, but it does seem like we crossed a fence or two. I remember more than once thinking, huh, is it cool that we're here, or is this private land? It definitely was not marked as such. We started hearing skeet shooting nearby and figured we might as well turn around.

[@LooknFishy]

Yea, I definitely had that...you sure about this feeling!

[@stevewest6133]

I'm not sure that's exactly what you ran into Drew, but its an emerging trend out West...property owners are privatizing roads that lead to public land that were previously Forest Service, County, or State right-of-ways, thus effectively privatizing public lands behind them. FS maps and websites often don't reflect this. Its kind of tricky-dicky, but from what I understand, legal. Lately I always distrust dirt roads that pass over private land en route to public land; always call a district office to clarify the latest situation. Again, I don't know if that's what you ran into, but I think its essential knowledge for anyone feeling inspired to venture out and away from the popular trailheads and camping areas.

[@LooknFishy]

That's crazy and exactly why I tell people we need more advocates using our streams. It's easy for things like that to happen when there's no one using the stream. But much harder when people are aware of what's going on.

[@DGaydon]

Ya it's super hard sometimes to tell private vs. public water - which is why I rely pretty heavily on OnX Hunt and Gaia GPS. Also use those two to find patches of public water where you might not think there is any!

[@LooknFishy]

Yea, I looked at that app once but didn't want to spend 100 for something I probably only need 2 months a year. Definitely reconsidering that now...guessing it's cheaper than a ticket lol!

[@splitarrow1]

@@LooknFishy I think I saw in another comment you're a veteran. OnX does discounts for first responders and veterans.

[@quetzalrc]

I live in a state where all rivers are public and no one can block their access. It seems so weird to me that you can't go fishing freely.

[@LooknFishy]

I wish it were like that every where...but it varies state to state. Even the marsh in southeast Louisiana is getting posted...can't even float over private land in some spots.

[@Trout_Bum]

Does that mean you are allowed to trespass to get to the river? Or do you have to enter at a bridge crossing. The state I live in some river beds are titled, so if you are standing in the water you are still trespassing. The state owns the water, so you can still float it. Drop an anchor and you are trespassing.

[@quetzalrc]

@@Trout_Bum Yes everybody can go everywhere except in closed gardens around houses.

[@uni_shadow164]

Could not tell in the video, was it a black bear Drew? Anyway, I'm sure your older credentials could have helped. However, glad it all worked out. Stay safe!

[@LooknFishy]

I think so but it was kinda far for me to see if it had a hump or not.

[@coachferg62]

Yes you can catch a trout on a found fly. My buddy pulled an Amy's Ant out of a dead rainbow on the Dream Stream in Colorado. Ten minutes later he caught a fat 22" brown on that same fly.

[@LooknFishy]

Haha...if it came out of fish I'd be more confident. That hooper remains fishless lol!

[@scottnock5241]

Too bad on the stream.. I’d be upset with that fly shop. BTW one of my best streamers I found in a parking lot!!

[@LooknFishy]

I still haven't caught anything on the hopper lol!

[@markkosa1]

Same thing happened to us on a quail hunt. We got permission from a ranch hand fixing fence then got drove up on by the land owner in a 4 wheeler who told us we were liars about having permission! Threatened us and we left....

[@fishfoolishness4222]

If you are traveling on a Forest Service (FS) road that passes through private property the FS has an easement through the property that allows public access, just remember to close the gates. Also depending on the state private property must be clearly posted every 100-300 ft along the road . If you are caught fishing on unposted private property then the owner or representatives of the owner can ask you to leave, they cannot have you arrested.

[@LooknFishy]

Definitely wasn't a forest service road and had to cross property to gain access. Totally on me

[@dennissmathers898]

I believe my next stop would be back TO that Fly shop. And they better have some good answers.

[@williamemmons8816]

Unfortunately the property wasn’t posted, but you responded in the right way. I don’t know the laws in your state, but here in Maine the owner can request you to leave if not posted, but could not have you arrested. Also you cannot own the stream , river or body of water, as long as you are in the water you are on public land . But again right response, hopefully the landowner will post it so there aren’t more misunderstandings.

[@rustyrodgarage2686]

Definitely get on x. Satellite navigation.we have to use it where I hunt because of so many boundaries between private and public.these landowners lose their minds over being on their land.usually due to inconsiderate people vandalizing and littering.glad it worked out for you

[@LooknFishy]

Yea, I'm looking at it!

[@nialllittle3820]

Love your videos. Question for you on the bear situation, what did you do in that scenario? Drop back down river, wait a little while and work back up ? If your could share your thoughts that would be helpful

[@LooknFishy]

Yep, exactly what I did. I walked back to an open area so I could see better. Made tons of noise and gave it 30 mins or so. My biggest concern was their might have been cubs that I didn't see. Then I went back and stayed on the far bank, making more noise as I fished the rest of the day.

[@nialllittle3820]

@@LooknFishy ok, 100% makes sense. I’ve been in a scenario like this and did similar. It’s always good to hear how people handle it.

[@renegadeflyfishing]

Nice fish!

[@richardjones2129]

Nice atream, glad u didn't get n2 trouble. That fly shop will have a reckoning someday 4 false info. God Bless n fish on!

[@KBosch-xp2ut]

It may also be the property owner fibbing about what he owns….

[@LooknFishy]

Still not 100% sure what happened...hard to believe a shop would do it. Maybe the owner changed his mind this year after allowing it or who knows really. Unfortunately I wasn't there for the conversation so ultimately it's on me!

[@KBosch-xp2ut]

@@LooknFishy It’s also on a property owner to put up signs! I still think it’s more likely that someone put up illegal fences than it is for a reputable fly shop to direct you to private property.

[@richardjones2129]

That's a good point. A shop can make it r break it on good r bad info. Something/someone will come to a reckoning eventually. God Bless n fish on!

[@hippiehappyhour3684]

Noone should be able to own a waterway. Screw that guy, but looks like you had a great trip

[@davidblackburn6926]

Drew come fish with me in Colorado. I’ll deal with anyone that walks up on us. Happens to me all the time. I’ve been in the right every time so far.

[@TheMichiganFishHunter]

Come to Michigan. We don't have haters like that and the stream, bottom and banks belong to the people. Everyone should be aware of regulations, which conveniently differ everywhere. Thanks!

[@rickroy3257]

Federal Firefighters/Land Managers use Avenza Maps. Really accurate refarding land status, access, etc

[@jessesilva4768]

The water is always public so long as you’re not on the land of a private property you should be able to fish anywhere. That’s total bs. I’ve fished private property walking the stream the whole way so long as I didn’t set foot on their dry land they couldn’t say crap

[@jimpyle560]

I forget you have have to deal with bears and self possessed landowners. Enjoyed the show.

[@LooknFishy]

I'd rather deal with the wildlife lol!

[@wherethefishare]

Do a Video on catching trout with Flies you plucked out of trees, too!

[@realityconformist424]

Hey! Is there a law otherwise in the state that allows you to travel in the stream? Or, do the property owners also own the stream bed?

[@OmaticFever]

It depends on the property rights laws of the state.

[@GrowingLittleCountryhomestead]

A lot of laws say if you’re floating you can but can’t wade. But there are a lot of special laws so always check up on it.

[@heppisaxm8316]

Cistal clear water,nice trouts,splendid fishing. Supe rmister!

[@LooknFishy]

Thank u bud!

[@joseperez-cl8jk]

Hi fantastic video I am respectfully of property rights and never been run off. My buddy was telling me if you stay in the water you can go fishing as no long as you don’t get on dry land you are not trespassing But I don’t know if that’s true. As this is New Year eve I will be getting my new license and checking out all the streams and plan to make it a regular thing once a month. Good fishing to everyone in 2023

[@OmaticFever]

The rules about what is considered private and public land around streams is on a per state basis. Check the state you are fishing in. Some consider the bottom of the creek bed public land, other consider the creek bottom as private.

[@davidwinchester6485]

Idaho has the high water mark as a public right of way. As long as you are below the high water mark, doesn't matter if all the land surrounding is private, you have every right to be there. Looks like a Montana thing to have the fence cross the stream like that.

[@peredavi]

I use ONX all the time so I know. Especially because I upland bird hunt. Wyoming,Montana is checkerboard with public private. I download maps to my phone for area i plan to be on so do not need cellular service in there. Not everyone posts no trespassing. Signs blow away or they’re lazy.

[@LooknFishy]

That's true. Signs are nice but not fool proof. An app would be super helpful on future trips.

[@Trout_Bum]

What fly shop was it? I love fishing in Wyoming, just curious if it was a shop I go in to. I have never been given a bum steer from a fly shop. It wouldn’t make sense for them to do that. If I got a ticket for being where they put me, I would take my business elsewhere. Good for you on getting out of it. Being polite goes a long way. It sounds like it is an ongoing problem for the guy. Sorry you had to deal with it. I use Trout Routes, they show where is public and private.

[@LooknFishy]

I honestly don't know and considered asking my buddy which shop he got the info from and sharing but I wasn't there and seems unfair without being 100% certain what happened. Was it a summer employee with bad info, angry guide/employee getting even, or maybe it was cool last summer but the land owner got frustrated and changed their minds, property might have been sold/new owners.. in the end seems irresponsible to shame a shop without having first hand knowledge of what happened. Ultimately it's on me to know where I'm at...especially when you cross fences. I got a trial subscription for troutroutes and looked it up. Where I accessed the stream was private.

[@Trout_Bum]

@@LooknFishy I get it. It started with bad information, and it’s best not to spread more. You are right, there are many things that could have changed over time. I didn’t think of it when I asked, but even the fly shop could hot spot the area. Don’t need to make Wyoming like parts of Colorado.

[@markmacintyre3422]

@@LooknFishy Drew: So you are laying this off on an unnamed flyshop, based on hazy, SECOND-HAND “intel” from an anonymous friend who didn’t really remember where he heard it? C’MON, MAN!!! Prominent property posting at or near likely public access points is on the owner. In this case, the flyshop scapegoating sounds a little shakey…..

[@watchman11000]

Game wardens can be such AHs. I believe their game conservation angle is to give bad warden experiences to the hunters and fishermen turning them off causing them to quit the sport.

[@bobwilkinson461]

Hi Drew, in this video you mentioned that you were using your 8’ for 5wgt., with a 4x leader and 5x dropper. How long was the your leader please?

[@LooknFishy]

I was using an 8.5ft 4wt with 7.5ft 3x leader and roughly 1ft of 4x to my hopper and 5x to the droppers.

[@bobwilkinson461]

Thank you. I’ve used essentially the same setup here in the recent passed, in an effort to improve my dry dropper cast in which I’m getting lots of lag in my presentation. Ha, must be my presentation cause I don’t see you having the problems that I have. I’ll continue to work on it. Thanks again, your videos are inspiring. :)

[@LooknFishy]

Could be the action of the rod. My recon is a fast to medium fast action. As the hoppers get bigger and add some wind the action slows...almost like overlinning a rod. I also use my left hand in a mini double haul but it can't be seen on camera.

[@bobwilkinson461]

Understand what you’re saying about the double hall action. My rod is a med/fast action as well. I’ll try the D haul. Thanks again Drew and happy thanksgiving to you and your family. :)

[@cynthiapierce4184]

It would be nice to know the city the fly shop was in so others of us don't end up in the same situation.

[@LooknFishy]

I honestly don't know the city or the fly shop. In the end it's my responsibility to know where I'm at and I'll do better job of confirming info from now on.

[@foragefarmer1300]

I got hit by the chocolate milk on my trip to Wyoming as well. Saw my first grizzly first fishing day in Wyoming.

[@LooknFishy]

Seems like WY streams muddy quicker. Was definitely an issue for me while I was there

[@bssaassin1900]

I've always fished public waters so I never used the apps but how does that actually work? I can see how there'd be a map but when you're walking around its not like you see a physical line in the ground that says you crossed the boundaries unless you see signs. How do I tell if one end of a log or a boulder is on public land and the other is on private?

[@LooknFishy]

Usually I stick to the forest svc so once your on public lands very few private (old homesteads etc) to avoid. In this case, I was outside the forest svc lands going on bad information.

[@fredrickwaldon1579]

When looking at the map on gps or phone your position is always marked as you move along.If you come to a private boundary it shows you your position and the boundary line.

[@bssaassin1900]

@@fredrickwaldon1579 ok right on. Is there a an audible warning or you have to stare at your screen?

[@bneaclab1]

In the US are the actual stream up to the high water mark public even though they run through private land? In other words, do the land owners own the actual land under the stream? it becomes an issue especially if the stream is hikable or floatable from an entry point. One has to use common sense and discretion, but the land owner shouldn't own the rights to the fish.

[@LooknFishy]

It varies from state to state. MT is high water and can be accessed for any recreational purpose. Others are high water but must be navigable. Others, CO and WY...the landowner also owns the streambed but state owns water so you can float but not wade or anchor.

[@Paulpoission]

Do you just post up on Idaho for the summer?

[@LooknFishy]

Nope, talked about the trip in detail in the catch and cook video.

[@travelguy1564]

Now days, it's risky all alone exploring and checking out mountain streams out west. Used to be safer, less problems - I just fish the Gulf Coast now days, tons of safe and easy places to fish, salt water of course.

[@jamesdennis5699]

Drew do you ever have problems with theft? I have a couple times and it’s heart breaking to have ALL your tackle and gear stollen the first day of a trip 250 miles from home. Rats! Enough to mess up a weeks worth of fishing. Plus a broken window in my truck.

[@jamesdennis5699]

Anyway, thanks for taking us along on your trips. I’ve enjoyed every one.

[@rickroy3257]

Its really important that you know land status. Is it private or public (state, USFS, BLM, etc). Also, sometimes private inholdings have a change in landowners and a change in attitude

[@mikesmith7209]

if it's your first encounter with owner, police can do nothing but to ask you to leave, they can't arrest you unless you refuse to leave or if you comeback after you've been warned...

[@user-nm3pl8vy3w]

Use a policemans wistle. For bears. The noise hurts their ears

[@stovepipehahaha272]

I would have told him that I owned the land and to get out that he was trespassing . People lie . I was robbed at gunpoint while bowhunting by somebody claiming to own the land. Stuck a large caliber pistol in my face and pulled the trigger inches above my head . Now I pack .

[@garyrafferty7625]

Still in Wyo? ... or back in ID? Did you see a grizz or a black bear?

[@LooknFishy]

Honestly not sure it was too far to tell.

[@spazaustin7074]

It’s a shame that property owners own the stream too…in some states,as long as you Stay in the waterway,you can fish it.

[@spuddoright1970]

That was a key reason why I retired where I did... having grown up in Colorado w/ all the good spots "owned" by ranchers and the leased out to expensive "clubs" I had enough of that crap. My state if you stay within the high-water mark and enter the water at a legal spot, then you are good to follow the entire river. Fences can't cross water like in that video.

[@KBosch-xp2ut]

@@spuddoright1970 That’s criminal! Here in BC, Canada no one owns below the high water mark of any stream, lake or beach on the ocean.

[@sirwinston2368]

In Michigan rivers, the state owns the water and the bed as long as it is navigable. I have fished Michigan for decades and there are very few streams that are non-navigable as far as I know. Additionally, Michigan has a recreational trespass law that allows you to trespass to avoid an obstacle. You can trespass on somebody's property, but you have to get right back in the water ASAP. It's great for fishermen as long as they respect the law and the property owners' rights.

[@LooknFishy]

Definitely varies state to state. CO and WY...the land owner owns the stream bed also. Some states are high water mark but then it gets into navigateable or not...MT is any recreational purpose...wish they all were like MT. But all I'm aware of you have to gain access thru a public spot. In this case, I did not which was the problem.

[@enooner11]

OnX is a great app to use for know what’s private and public fyi

[@LooknFishy]

Yep, have considered it many times!

[@edfaulx]

Someone is keeping that stream to himself!!!

[@LooknFishy]

That definitely happens!

[@user-hs5kk4dt2g]

Maybe I missed a comment, but do you know you were trespassing or is there a chance this guy was making it up to not have people fishing near his property or what-have-you?

[@camerongrant9356]

Whoa wait a minute…. In the states the land owner owns the stream bed? That sucks man. In Alberta and BC you can’t own the stream bed so is flyfishers can go where we want as long as we stay below the 100 year high water mark. It’s better for everyone. Pretty shitty that some rich D bag can buy the stream.

[@LooknFishy]

Yes, in some states...Colorado and Wyoming for example the property owner, owns the streambed. You can float thru but not wade or anchor. Other states have different access laws. Montana for example is as long as your under the high water mark...you can use the stream for any recreational purpose. But in all cases we must access the stream thru a public access (can't cross private property to gain access). Super frustrating bc the laws vary from state to state.

[@BrianHansford]

Dude - aren’t you using OnX maps?

[@LooknFishy]

Not yet...hard for me to spend money on an app I use 8 to 12 weeks. Reconsidering now lol!

[@fredrickwaldon1579]

@@LooknFishy OnX has a program for like $29.You can specialize your program for fishing or hunting.Fishing shows boat launch areas and all kinds of stuff.Will show your position even if there is no service.Maps can be downloaded in service area to show even in no service area.They are pretty good.Show roads rough roads two tracks and trailheads.

[@kevinrushton2906]

I have had ranchers claim I was on private property when in fact it was BLM land they simply had grazing rights on here in Idaho. But left both times because it wasn't worth possibly ending up in a shallow grave over it.

[@LooknFishy]

Yea, definitely not worth the trouble. It's hard to stay positive in the moment but I never regret it later.

[@stringburner57]

Dude, you can't be married. 😀✌️

[@maxell330]

I would of told him to prove that it was his property, no proof have him call the sheriff then.

[@LooknFishy]

Don't think that would have ended well for me. I definitely parked and crossed property to access the stream based on the info I had. Maybe he wasn't the true property owner...maybe speaking up for his neighbor's. But a sheriff would have known and also questioned why I thought it was ok to walk across private property to access the stream. In all cases of stream access you must always access from a public access.

[@maxell330]

I understand.

[@TiredAmerican247]

Get yourself OnXmaps

[@kyleshultis4246]

If you stayed in the water there is nothing he can do. It’s not trespassing if it’s a navigable water way.

[@sirwinston2368]

Are you sure? In Colorado, the riparians own the bed. In Michigan the state owns the bed as long as the water is navigable. Each state is different.

[@tim81212]

Each state is different. In Co they own the riverbed.

[@LooknFishy]

Varies state to state. CO and Wyoming the land owner owns the stream bed...you can float but not wade or anchor.

[@phishermonjon]

Are you 100% that it's private property? Some people lie just to have a spot like that to themselves

[@LooknFishy]

Not 100% but I recently got a trial subscription to troutroutes and it showed it was private property.

[@phishermonjon]

@@LooknFishy you're buddy should have a stern word with that fly shop guy. Nobody should have a trespassing arrest on their record because of some stupid fly shop guy!

[@user-nm3pl8vy3w]

Your fishing the wrong side of the stream.

[@realityconformist424]

I don't believe anyone should be allowed to own riparian areas, slopes and hills that drain to wetlands and wetlands themselves, sensitive aquatic areas etc. Humans are absolutely worthless for collectively failing to understand the importance of our environment.

[@guiart4728]

Black bear?

[@LooknFishy]

I think so but too far for me too see if it had a hump.

[@stringtwister7654]

It's getting so hard to find a place to fish! I live in NC, streams I grew up on are now yellow with posted signs. These damn Yankees have ruined my area! Property taxes are sky high you can't hunt, fish, hike do anything anymore...

[@KBosch-xp2ut]

Dude, you’re all Americans. It’s the rules of your state that have set it up that way, not anyone coming from “outside”.

[@somerandomguy706]

@@KBosch-xp2ut tell me more about how you don't know the locust problem

[@stringtwister7654]

@@KBosch-xp2ut your exactly right, it was our local laws that gave them the yellow posters and gates even helped staple them to the tree's! 😂 😆 Not hardly pal there ass holes who couldn't get along so they move in here buy a 1/2 acre beside the stream are turn in yellow with posters! 90% that moved in here are all damn Yankees. Some went to Florida and couldn't afford to retire there so they land here in NC.

[@fredrickwaldon1579]

Damn Yankees huh?You ever heard of Mt Airy?kissimee fl or the villages fl?Half the land where I live is owned by big southern corporations.

[@KBosch-xp2ut]

@@fredrickwaldon1579 People often want to blame “the other” for their problems.

[@paulg492]

You were never trespassing. Trespassing is when you're told by the property owner you must leave and you refuse. Careful in Wyoming it's a stand your ground state.

[@markrogers4228]

must be in Wyoming Land owners here are completely irrational when you might be on their property , even by mistake they would give you a kidney or anything else just dont trespass they are nuts

[@repairdrive]

That land is 100% his.....even though it was most likely was swindled away from the native Americans by his ancestors and or the government.

[@OPFlyFisher304]

Comment

[@gundriver6439]

KZbin has definitely RUINED fly fishing...

[@reneguay1347]

I don't know why you americans do not go to your goverments and try to abolish water rights in canada we can fish any water even on private land so long as we don't step on their land

[@Sasquatch541]

By law you can fish the stream but you can't get to it by crossing private property so if you can get to it legally just walk up the stream in the water and you're totally legal to fish it

[@cheechwizard6541]

No, the stream is not private. No one can own a river. If there are no signs up the only thing the police can do is tell you to leave.

[@LooknFishy]

Varies state to state. Colorado and Wyoming the streambed is owned by the landowner and can legally restrict wading and anchoring on their land. Some states have a high water, navigable and in MT...any recreational purpose stream laws...but in nearly every case...you must access the stream thru a public access which I did not.

[@markbutcher8963]

Not true unfortunately. It depends what state you're in

[@bavariasuhl]

relying on someone else to tell you its legal is very stupid. You are an adult and there are apps that tell you who owns what so its your responsibility to verify. no excuses ...

[@imaxfli]

Young guys have really destroyed FFing...why not just use a bobber and a worm if you can't catch fish with 1 fly and drag free floats and casts... there is absolutely no skill in this fishing.