Ron’s book won Best of Show for Written Works at the annual conference and competition of the Rocky Mountain Outdoor Writers and Photographers (RMOWP) in September 2019. In judging the book,Mary Taylor Youngwrote, “An excellent, comprehensive guide, nicely illustrated with color photos of sites, fish, anglers, fishing flies as well as explanatory illustrations. This thorough, well-researched book covers how-tos of fishing and backpacking plus fish biology and management, while also being enjoyable to read.”Several of his photographs, including those to the left, also won awards in RMOWP competitions.

Wayne Lewis, Editor/Art Director of Colorado Outdoors magazine says, “Through his long association with Colorado Outdoors magazine, I have learned more about angling from Ron Belak than any other author. His articles on fly fishing in remote, high-moutain waters have long entertained and educated our magazine’s readers and staff alike.”

Pat Dorsey, fly-fishing guide and author, says, “Ron Belak is one of the top authorities on Colorado’s backcountry. This book is jam-packed with strategies and fly patterns to take your high-mountain lake and stream game to the next level. Belak’s wealth of knowledge is accompanied by stunning photography, which makes it hard to put down.”

Steve Schweitzer, author, says, “For any mountain angler, this is a must-have book overflowing with practical experience only available from someone who has traversed the trails and worn out boot leather to get it. This book is the new standard for understanding how to plan, prepare for and fish the high country, no matter where you choose to fish.”

Dave Hughes, author, says, ” Ron’s beautiful book will take you to some new places, not all of them in Colorado, and will show you some new things to do–new ways to catch trout!–in places you already enjoy.”