Swing the Fly Issue 2.2 Fall 2014 | Page 113

He taught us to deer hunt, the history of the river, how to run jet sleds, and live life. He has been responsible many people’s first steelhead. He donates his time constantly and generously, giving back to the mantra of the great outdoors. If you fish a run on the Deschutes River and find a memorial to his good friend Fred, leave a fly. Ron’s emotions run unrestricted as he leaves many flies for Fred each season.

Though Ron leaves a large legacy, one development stands out in recent times. An undertaking that he organized with the help of S.D. Deacon Corp., the historic railroad water tower at Harris Canyon on the lower Deschutes River was restored to last another 100-years. Ron spearheaded this project, contacting local authorities and enlisting the help of Doug Campbell, long time wild fish advocate and construction specialist to help with the reconstruction. The water tower belongs to an era in America's past that shouldn't be forgotten. Be sure to look for it on your next trip down the lower Deschutes.