Most Saturday mornings in St. George find 98-year-old Mel Monk exactly where many local fly anglers expect him to be—seated behind a fly-tying vise at Hurst Ace Hardware on Bluff Street, sharing stories, tying flies, and helping others learn the art he has practiced for decades.

For the past ten years, Mel has faithfully spent his Saturday mornings from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. tying flies and visiting with anglers of all ages. What began as a simple opportunity to share his passion has become a treasured gathering place for members of Color Country Anglers, a Utah Chapter of Trout Unlimited, as well as countless shoppers gathering stuff for the Saturday honey-dos.

Mel's remarkable commitment is about much more than tying flies. It's about preserving traditions, building friendships, and passing along knowledge that can only come from a lifetime spent on the water. Whether you're an experienced fly fisher or someone who has never picked up a fly rod, you'll find Mel eager to answer questions, demonstrate techniques, and share a few stories from years gone by.

Those who know Mel understand that his greatest gift isn't the flies he creates—although many of them are works of art. It's his willingness to share his time, wisdom, and enthusiasm with everyone who stops by.

In an age when so much communication happens online, Mel reminds us of the value of gathering in person, shaking hands, telling stories, and learning from one another. Week after week, he continues to inspire anglers and strengthen the sense of community that makes Color Country Anglers such a special organization.

If you're in the St. George area, stop by Hurst Ace Hardware on Bluff Street any Saturday morning between 9:00 and 11:30. Take a few minutes to visit with Mel, admire his flies, swap a fishing story or two, and experience one of southern Utah's finest fly-fishing traditions.

You'll leave with a smile, perhaps a new fly pattern, and almost certainly a story worth sharing.