All of us have waters that have made a special connection to us. Wyoming's Flat Creek is one of mine. Part of the attraction is nostalgic, since this is where I learned the intricacies of spring creek fishing. This stream was my schoolroom for spotting subtle rises, sneaking up on the fish, picking a good imitation, and then presenting a drag-free drift.

Flat Creek is also special because its scenic location a few miles north of Jackson, Wyoming, on the National Elk Refuge. It is surrounded by great vistas, such as the Sleeping Indian, the Tetons, and Snow King Mountain. Seeing waterfowl and being serenaded by coyotes in the evening also adds to the area's appeal.

Flat Creek holds large native Snake River cutthroat trout--a distinctively fine-spotted variation of Yellowstone cutthroat trout.

Another aspect I appreciate is the chance to fish for wild, native Snake River cutthroat trout. This is the same species that was here thousands of years ago and despite man's meddling has survived and thrived.

Whoever said cutthroat trout are stupid and don't fight has never fished here. These fish can feed very selectively during abundant hatches, and will put a heavy strain on your light tippet as they run under the bank. They never give up and are notorious for pulling last-minute tricks at the net.

Much of the fishing is visual, and it is a rare day when you don't cast to rising fish. There are plenty of healthy fish in the 15- to 19-inch class, and fish up to 27 inches have been landed. My best were set of 24-inch specimens. One ate a #20 PMD, while the other took a #10 Mega Beetle.