For the first time, Dad has taken his son along on a fishing trip with a friend. Now the weather is changing fast, the way it does in the mountains. The Beaver has landed and taxied to the dock. The pilot stands by as the older men figure out what chests and cartons and pieces of equipment are lighter and so should go nearest the tail. The pilot knows that they haven’t too much time, for the weather is already moving into the pass in the background, and snow will be flying soon. This is their last chance to get out.

And in this little pause in preparations for the flight, the boy has lost his last chance, too. For right by the dock he spotted, a few days ago, a monster trout. He’s tried for it, but it’s a wily old fellow, not about to be taken easily. Still, while the grown-ups are all talking, he’s having a final try for the big one.

His last chance. Everyone’s last chance. - WP