PROVO, Utah - On Saturday, visitors driving through Provo Canyon had the chance to see Santa in an unusual setting before Christmas. Rudy Schenk noted that Santa enjoys to sneak out for some fishing each Saturday leading up to Christmas, though he humorously reminded not to tell Mrs. Claus. Santa was seen standing knee-deep in the Provo River near Vivian Park, spreading holiday cheer and offering fishing tips to those who encountered him. "It’s a tough time of year to catch a fish, so I’m mostly fishing for honks and waves," the fly-fishing Santa remarked. This festive tradition has been embraced by local fly fishermen Rudy Schenk and Brett Prettyman for four consecutive years. Prettyman recounted their first outing, which was marked by 10 inches of snow, making it difficult to access the river due to the cold and windy conditions. In contrast, the current weather has been notably warm, prompting Prettyman to comment on how people are finding it hard to believe that Christmas is approaching. This warmth has encouraged more people to join in, creating an inviting atmosphere for outdoor enthusiasts. Last year, a young angler named Carter Christiansen from Pleasant Grove came across Santa while heading to Sundance. This experience left a lasting impression on him, and he reached out to Prettyman for advice throughout the year, asking about fly selections for various fishing scenarios. Despite the chilly waters resulting in a quieter fishing day with only a few bites, Santa and his helpers aimed to alleviate holiday stress for anyone who encountered them in the river. Prettyman emphasized the importance of the outdoors as a space to relax and unwind, encouraging others to take time for themselves this holiday season.