6-21-20
There was a drowning at the Kenyonville Bridge, about a month ago. And that was my first night with luck catching crappie. I kept six that night. Six keepers is good by me. There is an old timer who fishes the bridge. His name is Sid. And he has a golden horse shoe. He, and others there have shown me there rigging. And it has made me a better fisherman.
Last Friday, I had a charmed night at the dam. I was the only one there, which I like, and it was one nice crappie after another. I kept nine of the thirteen I caught. I could have stayed late, and limited out, but I had a worker scheduled the next morning.
The blacks, African Americans, do things a little differently. They clean the fish the morning after. Crappie fishing has been a night time thing. I’ve followed suit. Because I’m tired when I get home. But when the fish are cooked, the flesh is a little soft.
I had my seventh fish dinner of the year today. Crappie, and one big silver, in foil, on the grill. So the fishing has been slow, but steady.
I must remark that some nice walleyes, catfish, and jumbo silvers have been taken from the bridge.
The brothers at the bridge have introduced me to glow sticks on the bobbers. For fishing in the dark. And it is really fun to watch the bobbers dance when the fish bites.
2-14-22
I have not been updating this journal regularly. I’ve had warm weather success both at the dam, and at Kenyonville Bridge.
I’m not fishing through the winter, but doing art and writing.
I’ve set up a minnow tank, and that really does enhance the catch rate.
I had a banner day at the Johnson Creek flats last spring. Several bass, carp and suckers. And a 27inch northern. On minnows. I impaled my thumb pulling the hook out of the pike. The hook point went in past the barb. It got a little bloody when I yanked out the hook. I had to cut it short.
Wit h minnows, I’m learning to catch crappies.
Mike Charvella and Scott Boyce took me out for one day on their pontoon boat. We did well with perch and gills. And one bass. Worm under bobber.
Beau and I got a few perch up at Long Pond last year.
Yes, I’ve crunched a few fish. But the highlights have been out on the open water with Captain Mark Morris. With a bountiful harvest of salmon and trout.
This last deer season, I took four deer. One crossbow. One muzzle loader. And two with the 11-87. The 11-87 autoloader has turned to be a great harvesting tool. The crossbow and muzzle loader are also working out very, very well.
A NEW CHAPTER BEGINS 4-10-22
We’re buying a new boat. New for me. A 14 foot Blue Fin. 2012 20 horse power Yamaha. Clean trailer. This opens up a whole new world of possibilities. I’ve put money down on it. Waiting for a check from the trust for the rest. $4100.00 total.
It’s still early in the season. I’ve been out twice. 18 Mile and Cranberry Pond. Beau and I are going out tomorrow after church. It’s getting late. I have to get ready.
6-11-22
Preparation for service tomorrow, at The Lord’s House. They may hand me the mic.
Live the Word.
Wake up with a prayer.
Begin the day’s labor with a prayer.
Let a smile and quiet industry be part of your prayer.
Be patient with others, and with circumstances.
Work with your heart and soul.
There will be times of fasting. But there must be healthy meals as well.
Love your home. It does not need to be an elegant mansion. But a dwelling place of love and order.
Stay in full fellowship with your friends, family and church mates. Allow others to speak.
Let goodness and wisdom come out of your mouth.
Remember your church at giving time.
Be constantly finding love in your heart.
Remember that we are the salt of the earth.
There are many saying the tragic end times have begun. But let us believe in our God of providence and protection.
5-17-24
This entry brings this journal up to date.
In February of 2023 I had a coronary bypass. I was critically ill for a long time. But my strength is returning, gradually. I’ve got the boat in repair, and ready to roll. I’ve found a dock that I can afford. And an insurance policy. I’m moving forward with the dream and the plan.
I’ve spent the last two seasons studying the lower river. And I’ve found fish.
The guide certification is current.
We’re moving forward.
I lack confidence in some areas. But I’m pressing on. I’ve made some terrible mistakes. I feel as if I am forever in recovery. But I can do this. I must do this. I will do this! is not my name “Fishinest Mike McLean”
