Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1955, Walt Grau is a local legend and a pioneering figure in fly fishing. Despite growing up near streams and lakes, he initially lacked interest in fishing, observing his older brother's traditional approach with worms and a hook to catch bluegill.

However, everything changed when Walt stumbled upon an article in Field and Stream describing the art of tying flies using feathers to catch trout. Intrigued by the concept, he started tying flies even before owning a fly rod, utilizing a small tool vise he found in the garage. While any offer easily enticed the bluegills in a nearby private pond, the elusive and enormous chubs in the creek close to his home taught him the value of dead-drifting dry flies and detecting subtle nymph strikes.

Walt honed his skills over the next four decades to become an immensely successful fisherman. His expertise in fly fishing guided him to become a fishing guide, leading expeditions in Michigan and Alaska. Living just a mile from Michigan's Pere Marquette River, he immersed himself in its diverse and challenging fishery, an experience that profoundly impacted him.

Despite having fished in various incredible locations, from the Atlantic salmon of Labrador to the steelhead of British Columbia, the rainbows of Alaska, and the bluefish of Maine, the fish of Michigan's PM River continue to be his greatest teachers. The river's intricacies and inhabitants have shaped Walt into the accomplished angler he is today, emphasizing the invaluable lessons from this remarkable fishery.