Friends Converge

A group of former Redskins converged upon Benzie County this weekend to toast one (read: many) to a friend who passed about a year ago. The spirit of Tom was with us as Friday could not have been a more beautiful day and while Saturday was a moist one, we somehow got the fire pit going with some yooper assistance. I haven't gotten the reviews back from my neighbors yet but thought we nailed the camp fire sing-a-long portion for the evening. 

Trail Head

Betsie River float

I got an up close look at the 2022 salmon run Saturday morning with my maiden float down the Betsie River. The truck/kayak drop is ideal for floating the river as there is a bike path that goes along the river for a good portion. Load the bicycle on top of the kayak in the back of the truck, drop the kayak at the access site roughly two miles upstream, drive back towards the destination, drop the truck, pedal back to the kayak and get on your way (not as complicated as it sounds). 

The river itself was not too crazy with only a few tight areas to maneuver around down trees. You do have to do a very low limbo under the final bridge into Betsie Bay/Lake so higher boats are going to be banging their heads if they aren't paying attention.

As far as a salmon report, I saw/heard a handful flopping around over the 2+ hour float. Fishermen were out and about with their waders; most reporting some production but nothing too wild. Pictured is an eagle sighting as there were actually two watching over me most of the float. 

As far as salmon to eat, bogue.

Trail Head

Class D Football - exciting and too many coaches for the home team

I took in my first Class D football game Friday evening as the local school is only three blocks from my place. The game was entertaining; although the local team lost in a blowout 28-0. 

First of all, roughly 15 players on each side makes for everyone having to learn every position, regardless of size. That is why there are no listed positions in the noted rosters; only grade. It was wild to see four available players on the sideline when play was on. Too many injuries and things become interesting. Easy for coaching I guess as you don't have to look through a bunch of players on the sideline when substitutions need to happen. Tough for coaching, however, when the few available are crap players.

The quality of play was good as every school is going to have some shining stars, regardless how many kids go there. My two cents to the home team is to lose some coaches. They have almost as many coaches as players and that is too many voices.  

Go Panthers.

Trail Head

packed player sideline for the visitors across the way (insert sarcasm)

beautiful field and backdrop

Otter Lake - northern home of the 'Dunham Laker' catches

I fished the Dunham Lake of the north this past week, Otter Lake. A few miles north of the Platte River, the lake, like Dunham, does not allow motor boats and has only a few homes on it. Also like Dunham, it has a whole bunch of 13 inch bass (or 'Dunham Lakers' as we say) in it as that is all I caught the two times out. The locals say there are big ones in there and the lake has some great structure so I can wait while enjoying the view.

Trail Head