Our love journey is anything but ordinary.

It all began on the banks of Putah Creek in Winters, California—a place that would become much more than a favorite fishing spot. Sarah had been casting lines there since 2020 while working at the world-famous French Laundry, often finding peace in the quiet waters and the rhythm of fly fishing. Over time, she got to know the creek well and became friendly with a local guide who admired her skill and spirit.

Around that time, Jeff—an avid fly fisherman with plenty of years and rivers under his belt—was looking to fish Putah Creek for the first time. He happened to connect with the same guide, who quickly realized he had the perfect person for Jeff to meet. “You’ve got to fish with Sarah,” the guide said. “She knows this creek like the back of her hand. And she’s a firefighter, just like you.”

With Sarah’s permission, the guide passed along her number. Jeff reached out, and—after a few days (a true test of patience for any fisherman)—Sarah responded.

What started as a casual friendship soon blossomed into something deeper. They shared so much: a love for the outdoors, good food, fly fishing, firefighting, and a grounded outlook on life. Despite their 18-year age gap, the connection felt easy, real, and undeniable. Neither of them knew the age difference at first—and once they did, it didn’t matter in the slightest.

Their first official meetup was in American Canyon, where Jeff picked Sarah up for breakfast in Napa. From that morning on, they were inseparable.

And while Jeff may have decades more fly fishing experience, somehow, Sarah always catches the bigger fish. (He says it’s rigged; she says it’s talent.)

Oh—and despite working at The French Laundry, Sarah still hasn’t cooked Jeff a full French Laundry meal… but she managed to win his heart anyway.

They made it official on a magical night at a Matisyahu concert in Sacramento, and they’ve been reeling each other in ever since.

What started with a love of fishing became the greatest catch of all. Two firefighters, one spark—and a lifelong adventure ahead.

Proof that sometimes the best love stories start with a fly rod and a little bit of luck.

Hotel

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