The folks at Milliken Senior Center did just that. They sat Alaska, Silver salmon were the aim for catching. Rainbow trout
Francisco with a Silver Salmon catch comfortably in their chairs and traveled to various parts of the world listening to a wide range of travel experiences highlighted by catchy, quite interesting, and revealing escapades of Francisco Oliva a world traveler, sportsman, an accomplished fly fisherman and other activities which caught his attention.
Fisherman Francisco Catching Silver Salmon
A fair share of laughter found its way into his stories. Francisco spoke of seeing a 3-ton Hippopotamus, Elephants (one napping), Leopards, a 13’ 1500-pound Crocodile and Cape Buffalos during his visit to Africa. In New Zealand, he observed the
living habits of Penguins which he found interesting.
He ventured to Mexico talking about his many saltwater flyfishing adventures. On the line Tarpon gave him a run for his money. Barracuda were fun to catch.
Next, we found ourselves in too! He often found himself on a seaplane flying to a remote location where the best fishing is. The pilot on occasion handed the yolk to Francisco. “Here fly the plane!” Other passengers were a bit concerned. “Sit back! Enjoy the ride’ said Francisco.
To the amazement of his audience, Francisco related stories about his encounters with bears who are a hazard when flyfishing in in remote areas. One such incident involved a 10’ 1200 pound Brown bear. Another one unexpectedly coming up on a large Grizzly Bear having lunch on a recent Moose kill. The fishing party left rather quickly. Francisco explained in
detail the safety precautions taken when in the bears home territory. Critically important! They are not to be treated as a friends. Grizzly bears can reach speeds up to 35|mph; while Black bears can run around 30 mph. That tells the story!
Francisco shared stories about the “Hole in The Wall Gang” in Wyoming and his involvement with a Veterans Fly- fishing club
which he finds most rewarding. He wrapped up things up bringing to the attention of his audience his love for Tango dancing,
Country Western dancing, his movie acting career, and rodeoing. Franciscos’ love of life spills over in to helping others if given the opportunity. Written by: Michael Buckley, Associate Publisher.