Rockwell Springs Trout Club

There was great anticipation approaching such an elusive fish-focused enclave. I've always been mystified by the sport of fly fishing, an activity that seems as precise and serene as playing chess only the rewards fill your belly. The club's slogan is "I come here often to find myself. . ." It definitely has that placid feel. With a hatchery on site, it seems criminal to order anything but trout at the Club's restaurant (open to members only). So be it, because I ordered perch. And lamented the decision after tasting one of my dining companion's rainbow trout entree, pan-fried. Perfection. Meaty and substantial, it's no wonder American Indians and other frontier men and women made meals of this amazing fish. The ambience in the dining room feels a bit like a hotel ballroom, lacking but with great views and a porch for sitting to digest. The highlight being the fish, everything that wasn't seafood left a bit to be desired (vegetable of the day, accompaniments, bruschetta appetizer). But again, it's criminal to focus on anything but that which came from the water. I did try their cherry pie and, at our waitress Kelley's recommendation, I added a piece of cheddar cheese on top. It makes sense, but didn't add (or take away) anything from what happened to be a great slice of summer. I love pie.Finally, if you get lucky enough to go, definitely end your evening in the bar on the main floor. Settle into one of their mission chairs and have Bailey's on ice, port or whatever other digestif that strikes your fancy. The whole lot is a special experience, demanding you slow down, stay calm and soak in something historically and environmentally unique. A gem in the middle of nowhere.

The selection of bourbon and scotch is stellar at this members only club. If it's cold enough and you're brave try the Mr. Smith. I suggest starting your meal with the Trout Pate, made from locally raised smoked trout. The Turtle Soup is a classic. The specialty of the house is the Trout Oscar but any of the trout entrées are very good. The lamb is very good, the veal is nice and the prime rib the spectacular. This trout club is rustic and the food carries with it the charm and character of 100 year-old fishing lodge. They are even trying some farm-to-table in the summer with their onsite garden in the summer months. The wine and beer selection is fairly decent. Make sure you enjoy an entire evening there, enjoy the Fireplace Room, the Billiards Room or the back balcony overlooking one of the many fishing pools.