I am happy to pass along a note of happiness today to the entire fly fishing community. My good friend, tough as nails, master cane rod builder, dog trainer, and all around stand up human being, Dave Norling survived 9 hours on the operating table today to remove cancer from his body. A successful operation was completed with the great news that the nasty villain was eliminated. I think his son put it best in the email I received today.

“This guy is not done making rods, training dogs, catching trout, killing pheasants, and last but not least being an awesome husband, father, grandfather, and soon a Great Grandfather.”

I cannot express in words, the value of the interactions I have had with him over the years. The wisdom and friendship he has passed along is priceless. He is a mentor without judgement. To those of you who would like to send along a wish of  quick recovery  here is his site and contact info. I hope we don’t crash his site:)  http://www.davenorling.com/