FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

IT IS COLORADO

Bear out the kitchen window.

As I have said since we moved here you cannot just walk around the house without looking out the windows.  Being on a major game trail you never know what you will see and this morning it was a jackpot.

Cooking pancakes I looked out the window and there less than 15 feet or so was a bear just strolling along.  He/she looked to be a 2-year-old at most, it had a green or blue tag in one ear and was a nice cinnamon brown.  Who knows when it was tagged in the past but maybe for being a bad bear and hanging around people.  I tried to find the camera and he had moved on down the line by time I could get it out.

It is Colorado.

The Boss being the housewife she is now keeps things straightened up but there is a reason I keep the spare Canon out, for just this reason.  The wildlife encounters out our back door happen in an instant and you have to be ready with camera and binos.  We did get a great look at him through the Vortex binos and the whole thing made my day.  The outdoors is the reason we moved here and this is a great example.  To see a bear that close is a bucket list moment and we hope to have many more to come.

As a side note the neighbor was going to check his game cam out back and see if it captured him.  He did tell Nancy that a couple of weeks ago down the street 2 lions strolled out of the woods onto the street.  Ain’t nature grand.  We sure love South Fork.

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MITIGATION

One of the benefits of living in South Fork is the fire department and EMS.  For a small town we are very fortunate to have a real professional department.  They not only take care of us including mountain rescue, but fight fires all over the country, including those in California last year.  As it has been so dry, we are about 50% of normal snowpack there is a real danger of fires.  They had a quite extensive presentation on how to mitigate/lesson your risk around your property.  As they fight fires yearly, they feel it is not a question of if but when.  They even brought in a giant wood chipper to the department for folks to bring their brush after the cleanup.  We got lucky in that department as a tree company was working down the street and they came by and took our brush so it saved us a trip.

We took everything they said to heart.  (We are smart enough to know what we don’t know.  Somehow in the US folks have become medical, legal, and scientific experts with a red hat and a GED.) It has been work, we live on the side of a mountain, but it is amazing how just a few days of hard work have made a big difference.  Removing all potential flammables next to the house, cleaning up an area over 20′ around the house, and later to come is the removal of a few trees that need to go.

It really has been a labor of love.  When you work your whole life to have something it is worth it to take an active role in defending it.  And there is one more little comfort, we are right across the street from the main line with a hydrant.  Different to live on the side of a mountain with a bazillion acres behind the house and have a hydrant across the street. Hopefully it will be a safe year for everyone but in the event the unthinkable happens we can rest easy; we did our part.

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FISHING

Put a trolling plate on the 25hp to get the speed down for catching the Kokanee salmon.  The Lund would only get down to around 2mph on the troll and the Kokanee are best at .5 – 1.2mph.  It worked like a charm and bodes well for things to come.  Ater mounting it headed to Beaver Lake in my continued efforts to catch them there, and did not catch one.  But it did not stop me from catching a bunch of rainbows.  Speaking with a game and fish lady at the office she said Kokanee  are hard to catch there, and so far, that is the case.  Caught a couple last year but no luck this year, so far.  But as soon as we get back from a quick trip to OKC I will be fishing some other places I have caught them.  I am not giving up.

Up.                                                         Down.

And I finally took the plunge and bought a 10′ Tenkara fly rod.  Only a rod and line it is a simpler way to fly fish and is gaining popularity for small waters.  It is something I have wanted to add to the arsenal, especially for smaller creeks.  I spent some time getting used to it and setting it up, the good thing, it collapses to 15′” long and easily fits in a pack.  Maybe will get a chance to try it out today before hitting the road in the morning for OKC.  It looks killer.

The case.                                                          10’comes out of this butt section.

This new fishing has been a learning experience but change is good.  And it sure beats being a one trick pony.

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“STEVE”

After we left Fort Worth the fine upstanding Hispanic community in Fort Worth/Dallas spread my phone number around to get signed up for all kinds of fly by night electricity.  It took me months to straighten it out as my number was used maybe 20 times.  In an effort to get them to stop I had to continually tell these companies obviously I am not Jose or whatever else Hispanic name was used.  Often it was complicated by companies that basically used folks who had limited use of the English language.  And speaking of that here we go again with “Steve”.

Over the last couple of days I have gotten maybe a dozen calls from 817 area code numbers.  I have blocked them repeatedly and they just keep coming.  So, I decided to answer and “Steve” answered and said he was calling from my TV provider, which made him a lying POS.  I try to be culturally sensitive but screw it, after another attempt to get them to quit calling I answered and guess who was on -“Steve”.  It was a different “Steve” who should be running the gas station or a sleazy motel.  It seems to have finally stopped today, we shall see.  (It has not totally ended with another 4 or 5 in the last couple of days.) But listen you POS, first learn English then quit lying, and for God sakes quit calling me.  There is a reason for some stereotypes and “Steve” is a perfect example.  There is a 7-11 somewhere that needs you.  After a while my cultural sensitivity wears thin.

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I am looking forward to driving back to OKC about the same as going to the dentist.  But hopefully we will get the car thing straightened out.  I even called the DMV back to confirm we are good to go.  But I appreciate the issues considering it is being transferred from another state to an out of state guy to then transfer to an instate person with an unsigned title as neither of my parents signed it.  But in the end my granddaughter will turn 16 and have a car so it is worth it.

So off we go in the morning.  On the way back it could be anywhere but one thing you have to give OKC, it is not on the way to anywhere.  But with no plan and no timetable maybe Ruidoso or somewhere cool in New Mexico.  I so appreciate everyone who keeps reading the blog so stay tuned there is real fishing on the way.  Funny how now that we are fully retired I have not posted like I used to.  But thanks for stopping in and reading, it is what it is.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

Can’t we all just get along?

This little girl bedded down about 20 feet out the kitchen window.  We had seen a few young bunnies hopping around and when I looked out this morning there were 2 right next to the doe.  Our yard gives us so much pleasure and every time you get up you have to stop and look out as you never know what you will see.  The does with last years fawns have now separated and they are on their own.  And the bucks are starting to grow some new horns and it will be a great fall watching them grow.

And speaking of horns when we were in Canada I used the term horn for a whitetails antlers.  A pompus college professor corrected me and I let it pass.  What I wanted to say was come to Texas and say you saw a fork antler, see how that goes over.

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What A Trip

They opened most of the mountain roads this week getting ready for the holiday weekend.  There is a small mountain town, Platora, that is not that far from here by going over the mountains so we took off.  While the gates are open it does not mean the road is actually “open.”

Who doesn’t like a marmot?

It is probably about 20 miles or so over high mountain roads but that turned out to be a tall order.  With the cutbacks the services do not have the funds for a real cleanup of the roads and before it was over we were able to get over one down tree, past another, but the last one was to long though I tried to winch it out of the way it was caught between 2 other trees.  So when i winched it started to bend like a bow so we stopped that, nothing like getting a blow back in the face.  And at this point it started snowing.

A male grouse looking for the girls.

We took a couple of different roads including to a small alpine lake but there were big drifts still blocking the road.  One thing you learn, at least most of us, is this is not to be trifled with.  You realize there is no help coming and without cell service in most places you just might be there a while.  The whole back end of my 4Runner has plenty of stuff to keep us safe, but the biggest way is just don’t be stupid.

Strutting his stuff in the Lek where they call to the females. 

After a few hours we realized there was just no way over so we headed back out to the highway and went the long way around.  Platora is a good 20 miles off the highway, longer if you take the other way around, which we did.  It started snowing again and it turned into a blizzard.  It was a cool drive but other than a few deer not much was moving.  After an hour of driving we came to a road closed sign, so went down to investigate and they were working on a new bridge.  It was clear they were driving across it to do the work so we backed up and took a run to get across.

So you want to go for a ride? 

At this point we had been on the road for hours and finally made it to the top and started down to the small town and the lake, which was the original purpose of the day trip.  And there in the middle of the road was a big Expedition with a couple of guys from Kentucky trying to fix a flat tire.  It was definitely the old monkey and football thing.

The Boss took this out of the back window.  There is no such thing as to prepared in the high mountains.

Of course, we stopped as leaving someone that far in the middle of nowhere is out of the question.  They had at least managed to get the lugs nuts lose with that stupid thing that has taken the place of the 4 way.  The only problem they were havinf, they could not find the jack or the spare.

I opened the side compartment in the back end where the jack usually is, and then showed them how to open the plate to reveal the place to crank down the tire.  At this point it is snowing to beat the band.  I got the 4 way out of the 4Runner and they finally managed to get the tire on.  They had hit a rock, duh, and the inside of their tires was bald, clearly no rotation for them.  Then the great question:  Is there a place close to fix a tire?  OMG!  So I gave them a piece of good advice, turn around and head to the highway and the next town, there is only a worse road ahead and not a soul in sight.

So what was going to be a few hour trip turned into 9 hours, most of it in a snowstorm in the big mountains.  I am not expert at these high roads and isloted mountain passes but I am cautious.  Like so much in this life, it is often not what you know, but what you don’t.  But part of living here is the adventure and we are taking advantage of all the Rockies have to offer.

Great Hike

Halfway around Big Meadow.

Big Meadow is a lake close to the house which I fish some and we occasionally hike.  It is exactly 3 miles around and is a stunning hike.  There were a few folks around but that changed yesterday.  From a quiet mountain town to full on outdoor world it is game on.  The roads are full of campers, boats, 4 wheelers and everything else you need to have fun in the woods.  While we enjoy the quiet, our little town and many of the folks here rely on tourism, and with a 4 month season it is get it while the getting is good.

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The Boss getting ready to take off on another 5k.  And what a backdrop to do it.

We went up to Buena Vista for her 5k and like always the amount of wildlife was amazing.  Elk, sheep, deer, turkeys and even a moose to name a few.  Every drive no matter where we go can be an adventure.  And a great thing about retirement is instead of the 2 hour drive home we took the long way.  We crossed the divide twice, saw some new country and stopped at Blue Mesa to get the lay of the land with ramps etc.   It has fish to beat the band and has an interesting exotic invasive, perch.  They are some of the best eating there is, bascially a midget walleye, and best of all, there is no limit. So a trip for a few days of fishing is coming soon.  A freezer full of vacum packed perch sounds great.

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The Grandkids.

We took a quick trip to OKC to watch Ben pitch and spend a little time with the kids.  Ben is the younger one and she is really getting into fast pitch softball.  She is the pitcher and while her team leaves a little something to be desired in skill it sure was fun.

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That will do it for now.  We are loving life and spending time it the outdoors.  The weather is stunning, 30’s in the morning and 60’s – 70’s in the daytime.  We needs some rain here as we only hit around 40% of the usual snow fall.  IF we do not get a more the floating/fishing season will be shorter again this year, tough on the guides.  I have still been fishing and catching trout. my learning curve on the Kokane is still high but who cares.  When you look around and you are surrounded but mountains, no assholes blowing by at 70mph all is right with the world.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

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FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

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If you are going to walk a 5K might was well walk it in pure beauty.

We headed to Buena Vista a couple of hours from here so the Boss could do anther 5k.  A cool little town we had a good time, and it was worth the visit.  But other than her 5k our weekend was made with the number of animals we saw coming and going.  We took the long way home, crossed the Divide twice, visited a lake I will be fishing, and just enjoyed not having a schedule.  We saw plenty of stuff, deer, elk, antelope, sheep, and even a moose.  Going for a ride is always an adventure.

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It is not so hard to get used to no traffic or Majeks blowing by me.

Got out for a little today and as usual catching is not the issue.  It was a little windy for casting so kept with the trolling.  I have a lot to learn but that is part of it, glad I am not a one trick pony.  There is a great big fishing world out there and learning new stuff keeps it fresh.

An easy 20 today though had to fight with the wind some.

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Let The Rip Off Begin

I have continued to talk about this off and on for several years.  So here is  what the Republicans are wanting in the new funding bill.  Read closely and then I have seveal comments but maybe I am wasting my breath.

It mandates the sale of dozens of parcels totaling more than 11,000 acres of federal land across the two western states.

Beyond land sales, the legislation would significantly reduce royalty rates paid by companies extracting resources from public lands. Oil and gas royalty rates would drop from 16.7% on public lands and 18.75% offshore to a uniform 12.5%, while coal royalties would decrease from 12.5% to 7%. The bill also calls for four oil and gas lease sales in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge over the next decade. It seeks to boost the coal industry by making available for leasing 6,250 square miles of public lands—an area larger than Connecticut.

1.  This land belongs to us – it is Public Lands, not Republican Land.  There is not one Democrat in favor of selling our lands to Corporations.
2. The justification is they will use the money to help pay for the tax breaks coming for corporations and the rich, it is not coming to the Public who own the land.
3. It is a drop in the bucket compared to our national debt and what little in the grander scheme of things is raised will be spent and gone in the blink of an eye.  Money comes and goes the land is forever.
4. So now, it is to be used to pay for tax breaks but includes a further tax/royalty decrease for the corporations.  Why would they lower the fees when the whole purpose is to raise money.  Think about it, what sense does that make other than a gift to their rich corporate and personal donors.
5. So when it is all said and done the reasons for the sale is bullshit.   It is nothing more than a land grab.

And one additional comment.  When the Canadian Prime Minister met with Trump in the oval office I watched the news conference.  Here is Trump’s exact words:

“We don’t need Canada or their resources.  In fact we have all the oil and gas and resources we need; in fact we have more than we need.”

Man I do not get it.

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See Above – Trump Executive Order 14270

These are just a few 0f the regulations they are doing away with.  So, you trust mining, logging, and oil and gas to clean up their mess or protect the lands the Republican’s are going to sell them.  (If you trust oil and gas and others then why are Texas landowners who reaped the $$$ now trying to get state taxpayers to clean up thousands of abandoned and dirty wells?  Why should taxpayers shoulder that burden?  Do you remember getting your cut?)

Air, Water, and Public Health

• Clean Air Act

• Clean Water Act

• Safe Drinking Water Act

• Toxic Substances Control Act

• Superfund cleanup authority

• Mercury and Air Toxics Standards

Land and Resource Protection

• Resource Conservation and Recovery Act

• Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act

• Wilderness Act

• Antiquities Act

• Wild and Scenic Rivers Act

• Federal Land Policy and Management Act

This is just a partial list of the regs they want to expire in 2026 unless the departments that control them reup them.  Sure, those would be the departments they have cut.  And here is a couple more.

・Endangered Species Act—gone.

・Migratory Bird Treaty Act—gone.

・Anadromous Fish Conservation Act—under threat.

・Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act—gone.

You can not tell me cutting all these regs across the board is a good idea.  Do your research, it is critical to understand what they are going to let corporations get away with.  Stay informed this is important.

Behind Trump’s Order 14270: A sweeping directive that dismantles a century of protections | Opinion

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Plenty to digest here but it is so important that we keep up with things.  There were plenty of things that needed changing and cutting.  But this wholesale approach is just not working.  An organized plan with a purpose is fine, but letting Elon Musk do it was nonsense.  (But I guess we are ok with the fact he got multiple investigations halted in the process.)  A full review of each department with a mandate for savings was in order.  Firing forest rangers and cutting food and health care for children is just a drop in the bucket.  Time for term limits and cuts in our elected officials salary and retirement at the same rate as the rest of the cuts.  We are being screwed by both parties.

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Off to see the grandkids for a few days.  Finally have my moms estate settled, kind of a struggle with 5 kids in 4 different states.  But as long as your affairs are in order things go fairly smooth.  Plus, no assholes in our family, everyone was fair.  So the Boss and I will review our whole thing, and you should too.  Other than that, all good out here in the mountains, hope you and yours are ok.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

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FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

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So You Want to Live in the Mountains

Happy May 6th.

Coming down with more to come.  We could get another foot or so over the next few days.  So time for a fire, some coffee and a good book.  Love retirement!

After getting maybe 6″ 2 days later now it is basically all gone.  I will not get a chance to fish until next Tuesday.  We have shopping and dentist tomorrow then gone for the weekend so the Boss can do another 5k.  Amazing how busy a retired person can be.’

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I did manage to slip out the other day to catch some supper.  The water color at Beaver is a just a little off and the temp is 43 degrees.  The night before was cool and the wind was out of the north.  While the fish did not bite, ended up boating 12 or so before calling it a day.  Forgot the camera so all I can say is they looked as good at the lake as they did at the fish fry.

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Time Marches On

Easy Step.

At some point you have to make a few concessions to getting older and in my case it is getting out of the boat after loading.  I have the unloading down pat but once it is on the trailer the old jump over the deep V nose thing to hook up is done.  While I can still do it, this is a whole lot easier.  Doing the research, it was easy to see that this was worth the money.  This thing is a beast, so many others were not nearly as sturdy and since this is made in America it is a win-win.

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And this question from a reader.

Hey boss I enjoy your posts. Did you ever figure lake texana out? I would like some advice me and my daughter love to bass fish if you have any pointers on possible locations and bait id appreciate it. Thanks –

Sad to say my 3 trips there were totally unproductive, unless you count catfish.  Once it was a total strike out, anther a big channel cat on swim jig, and the last time I was there it was one small one on crankbait.  I would hate to steer you wrong.  The one thing I never did was figure out how to hit the jungle, which from what is said is the place to be.  So good luck, you don’t know until you go.  And thanks for reading.

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Insurance

Our single biggest expense in our retirement is insurance, (Cars, boat, home, health.) more than the rest of our monthly bills combined.  Insurance companies are predators who have been allowed to run wild for decades.  So when the Boss started her SSI it was time to buy her supplement policy to go along with SSI and the Part B.  I have a great policy that is not available now but has served me well.  We contacted the company, and they gave her a great rate because I already have health insurance with them.  Then the next month those scum sucking bottom feeders jacked my rate amazingly enough, just about the discount they just gave us.  Something needs to be done but with our government bought and paid for expect the rip-off to continue.

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I Told You So

 House Republicans have added a provision to their sweeping tax cut package that would authorize the sale of thousands of acres of public lands in Nevada and Utah, prompting outrage from Democrats and environmental groups who called the plan a betrayal that could lead to increased drilling, mining and logging in the West.

I told you it was coming.  They are trying their best to steal our land.  I am so tired of maga defending this, it is an attempt at theft and if I was younger and not so sick of this fucking nonsense I would do more research.  Suffice to say follow the money.  So, keep supporting them, I am sure they will let you join in on the rape of our public lands.  Sure they will.  The old adage – give them an inch and they will take a mile.  Glad I am old but am sad for those kids coming up.  Soon it will be like Texas, only the rich landowners will have land and the rest of you are locked out.

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TEXAS BAR

Today I took the plunge and resigned from the Texas BAR.  Since I have been inactive and now in Colorado time to call it a day.  I am proud of finishing law school and being a 2-state attorney but time has come to call it quits.  While it required little to stay inactive actually – Who gives a F!  I am done and time to admit it.

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That is it for today.  Things are busy around here and I hope to be back fishing next week.And I have a story about Cavender Toyoto of San Antonio to tell, it is coming but if you live in San Antonia and get your vehicle serviced there, they are the most incomptent worst service in our 37 year Toyota history.  Man they suck and when you read what they did you will not be impressed.  Other than that keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

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A Morning Drive

We saw two massive herds of elk this morning.  Both herds were way out there, and I was surprised this came out this good.

It has been a while since we had a morning game drive due to my eye thing but out the door we went.  One thing about this area you never know what you will see.  We headed north to the area we have seen moose in the past but not a one in sight.  On the way is the area we have been seeing tons of sheep, today it was just one on the way back.  But near the elk wintering grounds where they have mostly been absent this winter there were 2 herds.  One had an easy 50 plus, and this bunch had maybe 40.

As we learn more and more and spend the time, we get luckier and luckier.  But just like fishing you don’t know unless you go.  Today both herds were way the heck out there, but big white butts are easy to spot the more you look.  The pic above was taken with the 600 lens and for the distance is great.  It is not easy holding that steady at that distance, a good mile, but the picture is never the reason.  We love glassing and watching them and were surprised not a fawn in the bunch.  But from what I read they head up to the forest to have their young.  So the next few weeks will tell if they disappear.  On the way home we saw a coyote and one Bighorn ewe.  Every day is a good day chasing animals.

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A Short Fishing Trip

Man I hate these crowded ramps – NOT!

The day was looking like it would be fairly calm with clouds.  The forecast was for rain in the afternoon so great fishing weather.  And it was for a minute.  The plan was to continue to chase the salmon, and I stayed after it for 2 hours. Not sure why I am not successful because the other lake I fished for them, I was successful, but I will keep after it until I figure them out on Beaver.  The other thing I wanted to try was fishing the 3.25 Nuked Glow” Knockin Tail.

Here is the first and the last.  There is not a fish on the planet that will not eat the Knockin Tail.

Why was this the last?  As soon as I started throwing it had a couple of bites and caught this one, it started snowing!  I mean big ass chunks that covered the boat in nothing flat.  It had really clouded up and the wind started so I headed to the ramp.  And then another thing conspired against me.  The only other folks out there were 2 guys on a small float pontoon with a trolling motor.  The had just put in and were at the ramp when I got back there.  Suffice to say it was interesting watching them put that big pontoon thing on top of a rack on the truck.  It ended up taking them quite a while but no big deal, I have no place to be.  By time they got done and I loaded it not only stopped snowing, but the sun came out.  It is the Rockies, and you just never know for sure but fishing above 9,000 feet is a thing all unto itself.  Stuff happens but I will be back at it Friday, there is still some Knockin Tail work to do.

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They Can Never Be Trusted.

This question from a long-time reader –

What do you think about the government (Trump) decreasing the size of federal lands for mining and oil exploration?

To put it bluntly it is a sham and an obvious land grab for oil interests and for the rich.  It is a “creep” to the time it is put up for sale and only really rich or corporations will have the wherewithal to buy it.  Additionally, it is a way to skirt any environmental regulations so they can rape and pillage our public lands and leave them in shambles, unless they can steal it from you and I.  So how can I be so blunt, let’s look at just one small current piece of history.

Texas oh Texas.  All you have to do is look closely at what is happening there.  There are literally thousands of wells that are leaking and polluting the ground water much less the land.  The resouce is exploited and left in a mess.  Now private landowners who took the money want the state to come in and fix it.  Bullshit, you welcomed them, fattened your bank account, now the drillers and “fly by nighters” are gone and you want the taxpayers to clean up your mess?  A perfect example is half of TPWD commissioners are in gas and oil or related businesses.  You are kidding yourself if you think Texas can be trusted to vote against their own interests and that of their rich politician friends

So, the punch line, it is the worst environmental threat in decades.  Now that I live in a place with tons of public lands of all sorts it disgusts me that opening it up to drilling and logging is even in the discussion.  I have said many times in the past I have no problem with mining, drilling, or logging.  All I would ask if I were king:  Everyone who operates on newly opened public lands has to put up a significant bond and the land must be left in great condition to allow for reforestation or whatever after the resource is used.  And last that the liability would last for maybe 20 years, you do not get off the hook once you are done.  I have said it before and will say it again:  Money is fleeting but the land last forever.  It is our land.  Think I am wrong?  OK then just look up the number of Super Fund sites in the US and what it has cost to remediate them.  They cannot be trusted.

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Tough World Out There

The Boss was on her big walk while I wrote this and when she got back she gestured for me to come outside so I grabbed the camera.

Poor thing.

The trail is right beside the house, and she saw this doe struggling up the hill.  Her leg was obviously broken and while I have no clue how it happened it is easy to guess.  There are even more prairie dogs than last year and looking at her leg it is broken about where it would be if she stepped in a hole while running.  She kept heading up the mountain where she will not last long.  Plenty of coyotes, bears and even lions above the house so nature will take its course.

Just a small sample of the mule deer in the neighborhood.

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Hope things in your world are as good as ours.  We are enjoying every day of retirement.  Things are good here and we making more travel and exploration plans, and the fishing will continue.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

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FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

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A Hike

The weather is gorgeous around here.  The road to Big Meadow is still “closed” at least according to the National Forest wesbsite.  When we got to the road the gate was open and folks were driving to the lake.  We decided to make the hike up first.  It is about 2 miles to the ramp.  We hiked a 1.5 miles up and 1.5 back.  Once we got back to the truck we drove up to get a good look at the lake which still has some ice on it but will be open soon.

The run off is in full swing.  But we need more, hope we get it.

Big Meadow Lake.  About 15% still ice covered.

Bascially Big Meado is a put and take lake and well stocked.  The bank fishing opportunities are great, and it is about a 3 mile hike around the lake in some great country.  I have fished it several times in the boat and to say it is full of trout would be an understatement.  We continue to enjoy all the woods here have to offer, and our summer season is off to a great start.

Looking back on the way up.

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Little Rascals

Our neighborhood as a huge population of prairie dogs which are cool little characters.  They are busy little guys and there are literally dozens and dozens of holes.  The stay alert and scamper across the road.  A few don’t make it but there is plenty to repopulate.  But the colony is in a big undeveloped field and it won’t be long before it is developed.

Always watching 6″ from their hole.

Run for it!  Perfect turn at the snap of the pic.

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Shedeur Sanders

Both of us are big football fans.  The Boss likes college better and I don’t care, if it is big time I am watching.  Watching football when I was growing up was a constant in our house and much of the extended family.  We have watched the draft religiously.  It is cool to see them get the call and the family reactions.  For most of those kids football is their life and in some cases have kept them on the straight and narrow.  And in the draft character can be a real issue.  And that brings me to Sanders.

The 4th round is about to start and he is still on the board.  While character has been an issue when you look at his numbers, he is far from great or deserving of a high first round pick. He apparently had some interview issues and of course humility is not one of his better traits.  Of course, Daddy is part of the issue no matter what the teams say.  One of the teams that needs a quarterback is the Browns.  If memory serves me Daddy made a comment or two on them prior.  So, with 5 choices in the first 3 rounds they did not take him.

So how about a little history.  First, the biggest bust and narcissist of the last 20 years, Johnny Football.  I am glad we saw him at A&M, what a talent.  When he slipped on draft day the Browns called him and I will never forget him telling the Browns that he would “wreck” the league.  The only wreck was him, a huge waste of a early pick and bag on money.  It would be hard to beat that waste of money, but the Browns did it again when they traded for Watson from the Texans.

They gave up a ton of picks and over $200 million guaranteed money to a dude who settled over 20 cases involving sex for millions and has been an absolute bust, along with often being hurt.  When the Browns picked a qb at the end of the 3rd round it told Sanders all he needed to know. Who knows why he has slipped so far but it appears to be a combination of things.  It cost him over $37 million from a first round pick to sitting on the couch wondering what happened.  One thing Sanders needs to learn – there is no I in team.  When he threw his offensive line under the bus after a loss, or leaving the field before the game is over it all adds up.  Just have to wait and see if a dose of humble pie makes a difference.

Just got picked in the 5th round.  This is his chance to prove the naysayers wrong but t he draft has spoken.  Come in to camp, learn, keep your mouth shut, Dad needs to stay out of it, prove you are a pro and know your role.  There were serious reasons the teams picked 140 folks before you.  But at least the Browns who have had 40 quarterbacks in the last 25 years are willing to take a chance.

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Wind

Being at the base of the high mountains leading into the San Luis valley it is windy in the spring.  25mph is common in the valley which is known for the wind.  One thing that it also affects is the lakes.  Most here are reservoirs and are bowl shaped, so the wind can be a factor.  There is no nooks or coves in most of them so when it blows it can get rough fast.  While it will slow down soon it was windy yesterday.

I am still struggling to catch the Kokanee in Beaver.  It is a new endeavor for me, so the learning curve is high.  The plan was to stick with it yesterday morning, and for 3 hours I kept after it.  Filter feeders, the motivation for them to bite is simply a reaction. If I were guessing and I am one bite was a Kokanee, the other few fishing deep were random trout.  Switching to trout the hour before quitting was as productive as always.  (No pics today forgot the camera.)  That will be the ongoing plan on Beaver, keep searching and learning and then at quitting time catch a wad.  It is part of my ongoing development as a fisherman.  I am committed to not being a one trick/one fish pony.  If it was easy it would not be any fun.  And the plan is a great way to spend the day.

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We have big wind the next 3 days then it starts to decline.  On the plate next week is a trip to Pagosa to fish Echo Lake.  It has everything from trout to bass to catfish.  In fact the state record largemouth at over 11 was caught there.  Another lake on the plate is north of here and by next week the ice should be off.  Plenty of time to fish and places to go.  So keep stopping and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

One of the things we love about Colorado, is what at times is some really interesting weather.  We had what is probably the last snowstorm of the spring and it was a doozy.  It snowed around 24 hours and before it was all done we got around 10″ plus.  It quit on Saturday night and then that cool Colorado thing happened, it all melted on Sunday and it was 60 degrees.  So we just hung out Saturday and enjoyed the snow, and then I went and got the boat.

The weather is fabulous and consequently I got the boat out today.  The lakes are open, and the season is on.  First up will be Beaver Lake which is closest to the house.  I enjoy fishing it and it is never a question of catching; it is more what and how many will be caught.  It has the Kokanee salmon which are a little tough to catch there but this being my first full year that should change.  And there are plenty of other lakes to come so I am excited to get at it.

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Beaver Lake

It is so nice to not have to fight the crowd or deal with crowded ramps.

I headed out about 9:00 to the lake.  As usual the drive can be fun and besides seeing around 30 mule deer and then when pulling into the parking area there were 2 elk above the lake on a grassy hillside.  With the weather in full spring mode everything is feeding in the fields.  The deer just eyeball you but the minute I turned the truck into the lot the elk headed back in the timber.  But a good way to start the morning.

There was not a soul in sight, in fact other than a couple of guys later in a jon boat and then some bank fishermen I had the whole lake to myself.  The plan today was to just troll and check out the water level and how it related to the points.  The first hour or so it was just one bite, then it started picking up.  Starting with a bronze small minnow bait on one rod and a white/pink spoon on the other it seemed to be a tie as far as how many ate.

A nice limit of pink meat rainbows.

I trolled both on a flat line about 60′ back and most of them slammed it.  The best area was on the sunny side of the lake as it was only 40 degrees when starting and the water temp remained a cool 40.  Most of the fish were close to the bank, and a couple of the can’t miss banks from last year were it.  The wind was swirling some, but it warmed up nicely as the morning went on.

The other thing I wanted to do was troll the deep water and see if any Kokanee showed up on the locater, but the deep water was fairly devoid of fish.  My guess is some of the fish showing up in the 30 foot range were them, so that gives me a starting point for tomorrow.  They are caught using a completely different technique so next up will be a morning concentrating on them.  There is lots to learn but I will keep after it.

It was an easy 20 for the morning and no complaints.  In fact I never tied on a different bait all morning.  It would be hard to overstate how nice it is to not have to fight the knuckleheads at the ramp and on the water.  As many of these lakes are no wake people act like fishermen, none of that 70mph wide open nonsense.  And speaking of that I cannot fail to comment on the MLF deadly wreck below, it has been coming,

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We headed out to Creede about 21 miles away for a cold one.  Of course nothing was open, that will change starting the 1st.  It is the Colorado Rockies.  This is what they call the mud season, and most businesses are taking a break before the tourists come.  On the way there and back we saw maybe 40+ Bighorns.  One thing you learn here is if you like animals and photos never leave the house without the camera, you never know.

These guys have a ways to go but nothing like Bighorn rams no matter what size.  They were giving us the side eye.

That have really gone to year/ram/ewe bunches.  These boys were right in Creede.

The sheep and deer have really ganged up by class, age, size, whatever they are hanging with their buddies.  Herds of deer are common, and interesting enough the turkeys have hit the road.  Where they go who knows but it will be fall before they return.  And the prairie dogs are out in force, so the season has changed.  Will definitely head up north of Creede to fish a lake I have not fished yet, which happens to be where we see the moose.  Man it is fun to live here.

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MLF Boat Wreck

It was sad new that 3 people were killed and another couple hurt when apparently a tournament boat going around a point slammed into a striper guide boat.  From what I read the bass boat went over the top of the center console killing the guide and a couple of customers.  There have been a couple of different reports but it just might have been foggy.  The tournament angler survived, usually the way.  One of the commenters said it might be time to look at the speed issue.  You f’n think!

My memory might be a little fuzzy but here is some background.  Back in the 70’s as boats and motors progressed at a rapid rate BASS made a major change.  The rule then was the HP maximum was 115 on tournament boats.  It took a couple of years but they finally lifted the limit and the race was on.  I was there when a 70hp was something then along came the Black Max.  I had one on my Champion 16’8′ and trust me, running it wide open was flat stupid, just one dumb move from disaster.  We did not even have dual steering at that time.  The Boss hated that boat.

So things kept getting faster and faster.  Hull design improved and motors just kept getting larger.  Today the coast is even seeing big flats boats with dual motors.  The insanity continues.  And with it more accidents and definitely more bad behavior as the number of times tournament guys or guides are involved.  But even worse is the guy with more money than brains.  So it is time to talk about speed.  There is no reason for boats on freshwater or shallow coastal waters to run 70mp.  It was just a few months ago in a tournament I watched on TV where a bass boat hit a sunken dock and it ripped the motor off the transom.  There is no sense in that, time for a speed limit or some sensible length to HP rating.  I don’t know the answer but the lawyers are coming.  They better hope they did not send them out with fog.  That’s gonna leave a real mark.  My condolence to all involved.

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Thats it for today.  Spring is relly in bloom and besides the fishing there is still some travel in the plans.  And the Boss is going to do another a 5k in a couple of weeks.  In fact she walked a wildlife area today and found an elk mandible and a leg.  The woods here are full of the evidence of natural selection at work.  Around here if “you” don’t eat it someone else will.   So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

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FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

As we continue to deal with my eye disease the real issue in my case is driving.  So we chose a place not a real long way from here, about 10 hours, to see how long I could actually drive and since I had never seen Rushmore we headed that way.  There were a few things we wanted to accomplish besides the driving, see Mt Rushmore and Crazy Horse, and find and photograph some Mountain Goats.  Except for the driving it was a success.  More on that later.

Deadwood South Dakota was a good location for both the goats and the monuments.   This is their off season, and the motel prices were crazy good.  We stayed at the Landmark which is an old classic remodeled and not only great for walking around but a free 4 pack of brew and a small bottle of complimentary wine.  Plenty of downtown stuff along with some adult entertainment.  One thing I will say about Deadwood is do not bring the kids if you plan on staying downtown, with casinos lining the streets many places do not allow children.  Not saying there is nothing for them in the area just be advised downtown is oriented to “big kids”.  The best thing about our visit it was truly off season and there were very few folks around.

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Mt. Rushmore

The Boss visited the area when she was a kid and told me I needed to see Mt Rushmore just once so one day we went both there and the Crazy Horse parks.  Mt Rushmore was impressive.  I will say it is a one and done, takes longer to get there than the few minutes to view, but it is something.

Mt. Rushmore. 

After that we headed to Crazy Horse which is just 20 miles or so away.  Not only is it massive as they continue work, the tour inside the visitor center is top notch.  The history of how it came to be is amazing and the native American history and artifacts were very cool.  It was so worth the drive and the one thing that was so interesting is when they started the feds came in twice and offered up to $10 million to participate.  Rightly so they declined and kept control and fund raising because of the naked truth even today, they did not trust the government.  Work continues today and when finished will be a must see for all.

Crazy Horse.  His nose is 47′ feet high.

Hard to describe how big it is.  On the right is the work on the finger that will be on top of the horse.

What the final will look like, decades from now.

There has been some talk about putting Trump on Rushmore, which is stupid and not only would it dishonor what has been done but cost a ton.  And to illustrate some of the folks who support it please click on the link below.  And man, what a comment on the uneducated.

God Help Us

(1) Video | Facebook

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It was an easy short-day trip from Deadwood but I had alternative motives to visit by way of Rapid City – Bass Pro and Dakota Anglers.   Bass Pro was simply for a pair of fit over sunglasses and Dakota Anglers just to visit.  They are a fly shop which had everything you could possibly need.  They even had a replacement net for my long handle boat net.  Good folks, it was worth the stop so if you fly fish and ever visit be sure to stop in and see them.

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Mountain Goats

In our ongoing animal chase one that has been on my list for a while was the Mountain Goat.  Though we saw a couple in Yellowstone a mile away with a high dollar spotting scope I wanted to get close enough to really see and photo them.  The area has some, part of an original 6 that managed to escape years ago.  So our research said Spearfish Canyon right outside of Deadwood and we got lucky.

Good luck, we found a couple.

We put in the time and effort on our searches and this was an example of good planning making or good performance.  As we eased along the Boss said look up there, and way up on some rocks there was what looked like a big ass rabbit.  Look closely at the picture below it is his foot sticking out and it just looks like a rabbit.

The Boss made this great spot, they were way up on the mountain.  Looks a little uncomfortable but obviously not.

He lifted his head up and from that point he let us watch for a long time.  Through the binocs it was so clear and again the long lens at least let us reach out and get some pictures.  After a bit he got up and did a little grazing before disappaearing.  What a cool animal and he still had his winter coat.

He got up and stopped for a snack.

Always wanted to see one up close.  And while this was not close in the Binos it was amazing.  One big bodied animal.

The Boss then spotted as set of horns peeking out from the same rock pile and there was another one.  While he watched us he never did get up.  But this encounter made my whole trip.  And as I will get to, it was a animal watching kind of trip.

Its buddy never did come out from behind the rock.  Watching us watching him.

When we headed back to town as we dropped down the hill right on the edge of town there was a few sheep on the highway.  It was a fitting end to the day, and the amount of wildlife in the area, and on the trip, was great.

We did see several sheep on the trip. 

From the time we hit the road in Colorado until we got home we saw the following – Mule deer, whitetail deer, elk, bighorns, mountain goats, coyote, antelope, and the Boss even saw a black bear outside of Salida.  It would be hard to estimate the total but it was in the hundreds.  Stuff was on the move and our timing was immaculate.  We love our animals.

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And a final word on my ocular Myasthenia Gravis.  It has turned out to be a tough thing to deal with.  The best I have been able to drive in 3 hours, but when it is bad I cannot drive.  The medicine has some nasty side effects and learning to deal with that has been a hassle.  so this trip was a test trip.  We will continue to travel no matter what but have to learn to space out the distances.  But when you do not have to be anywhere no problem. Unfortunately, the days of knocking off 12+ hours without a sweat is over.  But hey, at my age it could be worse and we will deal.

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The weather was stunning, and we enjoyed the drive and saw some new territory. But the forecast for this area was and is big snow the next couple of days so we pushed it all the way home.  It is pretty certain we may get a foot or more but by Monday it will be back in the 50’s plus so time to finally get the boat.  And we will be heading to Oklahoma to see the grandkids in a couple of weeks.  From that point on we are looking at other places out west we have not visited.  Retirement is great.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

If you have not checked them out lately please do so.  Michael has added several new and innovative products to the lineup.   Can’t wait to start wearing the fish out here on the new stuff.

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Echo Lake

This was my go-to lake when we would visit Pagosa Springs.  Since we were over there the other day I decided to stop in and check it out, as you can see it is cleared and beautiful with the mountains in the background.  It has the works in it, bass. crappie, trout, catfish and was always good for a limit of trout when we wanted the fish fry.

Normally I would have already been back with the boat but we are headed out of town for a few days to visit Deadwood South Dakota.  But as you can see the weather is fine so as soon as I get back here next week the boat will be out of storage for good.  And speaking of storage while our lot is narrow, I am currently planning for a carport where the boat will live in all summer and the truck in the winter.  We shall see if that gets done this year.

As far as the trip I have never seen Mt. Rushmore so that is on the list.  Though for me there is a pretty good population of Mountain Goats in the area which is one cool animal.  We have only seen a couple in Yellowstone so hope to get some good photos.  Some hiking and photography are definitely on the list.  And being the slow time there like it is here the motels are cheaper than all get out.  There is actually one more reason for the trip, my eyes.

It has been a struggle trying to regulate the meds with the eye issues.  Unfortunately, once I get outside the vision becomes a hassle, basically while driving in bright sun.  We think we have the medicine in some sort of order, trust me the side effects suck, so this trip will be a test run on how far I can take it or how we will space the meds to accommodate travel.  Ocular  Myasthenia Gravis is one weird disease but at my age it sure could be worse.

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Fish Fry

With the Boss whining about some fresh fish I headed to the river to see if it was possible to catch a couple of unders.  The legal limit on Brown trout is under 12′, which right now is a hassle.

He was long and skinny.

With the limited snow pack and rain the river is still low.  Today it was starting to rise some and had more color.  They would not cooperate on the fly rod so as usual outcomes either the Rapala or the jig.  The fishing was a little slower but after catching a few it was time to see if things had opened up any on my favorite local lake.

He jumped out of the net and was headed back in the river.

Don’t get me wrong I am not complaining about 14 – 18″ browns on lures.  They are aggressive and put up a good fight in the current.  And a few are kind enough to add a couple of jumps before netting.  But as far as fish fry’s the lake is the place.

On the way to Beaver I checked out my favorite small stream and there is a depressing amount of water in it.  There is still some snow way up and hopefully it will start running off and filling it to a fishable level.  But one thing about this area there are plenty of places to fish.

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Let The Games Begin

We checked out Beaver Lake last week and the stream leading in was open but the lake was still frozen.  But with it being so warm it had to have at least some open water and the creek end did.  While not a big bunch there was open water around the edges.  I walked in and the area was plenty open for some fish and it turned out to be great.

A Limit – Supper.

When I walked in I only took a spinning rod and fishing bag along deciding to leave the flyrod in the truck, which turned out to be to bad.  Since the Rapala was still tied on from the river it was first up but did not generate a bite.  With ice floating around some in the wind the water was ice cold, not sure that made a difference but with no results time for the olive jig.

Let the feast begin.

Trout seem to really like olive in jigs or flies so I tie my own in 1/16 or 1/8th.  I dug out a 1/8th and started tossing it.  With them not wanting to chase the Rapala I let the jig sink to the bottom, which was about 6′ in the middle of the creek and started hopping it.  From that point the bite was on.  While a subtle bite it was just soft when you picked it up and they were on.  Since I was to lazy to walk back to the truck I missed out on what might have been a good Wooly Bugger bite on the fly rod.  As a side note one of the things I want to learn is fishing the fly on the lake which should be productive given the amount of trout in some of them.  And I am due for a big one this year, just have to fish the right waters.

It turned out to be a mixture of Rainbows and Browns.  After maybe 10 or so one broke me off, it is 4lb test and it happens just often enough to remind you retying is necessary after a few.  But that gave me a chance before I quit to give the salmon egg a toss, no surprise they eat those year-round.  About the only time I throw them is when there is a quick need for a fish fry.

But the punch line is once we return it will be on.  Our temps are expected to hit mid 70’s today and remain in that range give or take a few.  The lake should be open by then and the rest of them are on their way.  Can’t wait to get after it.  Soon it will be up to Blue Mesa for some Lake Trout fishing as soon as the ramps open.  They should love the 5″ Knockin Tail, as will the pike on Navajo and it will be fun.  We still cannot believe we live here and appreciate it every single day.

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I want to thank you who still read this blog.  It has gone through some changes over the years and where we are headed is still up in the air.  Renaming it has entered the discussion.  Just a thought but since our lives have changed it might be a good time for a change and a renewed determination.  But who knows, no matter what I will continue to blather on, so keep stopping and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

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Looks like we have had the last real snow of the season.  While we may get a flurry here or there it is warming rapidly and the 5″ we got 2 days ago is going away fast.  Will be heading out in the morning to not only chase some furry stuff but to check the lakes and the ice.  I am chomping at the bit to get back on the water.  After catching a few salmon last year that will be my focus for a while.  Then maybe a lake trout trip north, or Navajo to the south there are so many places yet to explore.

And speaking of snow we have learned one important thing – so what.  It is totally different when you have to shovel and plow to go on with your life.  In our case we look out the window and say ok, snow day.  Read a book, make some baits, take a nap, and then it is gone.  It is interesting weather here, when we woke up to the 5″ the roads cleared in a couple of hour all by themselves.  So spring is finally coming and with it plenty of new adventures.

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That is a big boy!

The turkeys are going nuts behind the house every morning.  They are gobbling up a storm and in full strut as they herd the hens.  It is such a good way to start the morning.

Strutting right out the kitchen window.

The girls were not impressed.

A busy morning.

Unfortunately, I do not qualify for a instate hunting and fishing license until next year.  And of all things we live in one of the most popular hunting areas in the state and it is all draw, even turkeys. So next year here I come.  We never forget how lucky we are to live here.  The outdoors, the folks, the wildlife, it is a far cry from Texass.

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We had a morning drive to a different area the other day and the mule deer were impressive.  We saw 4 herds as they are ganged up big time.  Should have taken a picture of the first bunch just to show you what 50 deer at one place look like.

A very few bucks have their horns, he only has 1.

The deer have not completely left the neighborhood but they are moving in mass to the real woods.  Our bucks left first and there are just a few, as in 25 or more, left but there is still no shortage of them out our kitchen window.  And the prairie dogs are finally out.  They are one funny little creature.  Probably a good thing they are not normally table fare.

The Mule deer have herded up.  

But there are a couple still around the house.

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We have really enjoyed the NCAA basketball this year. And what is there to say about Houston and the incredible win last night.  What a game.  As usual the losers are acting just like losers complaining about the officials.  There is not much I agree with Dana White about except his opinion on leaving it to the judges – “Take care of your own business and you will have no complaint.”  Today we are looking forward to the women, it should be a a barn burner.  While we root for one or the other we just hope for a great game.

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Next up will be either Deadwood or Oklahoma to watch our grandchild pitch for her softball team.  (And a pox on the religious nuts in Iowa who decided that she does not deserve the very same protections all white religious hypocrites enjoy in Iowa.  She is a little kid for God’s sake.  Oops, my bad, God apparently has nothing to do with Christianity and children in Iowa.  Sick.  Stay silent and you are complicit.  Jesus would be proud.)  Other than those coming attractions we are loving retirement and play it by ear everyday.  The fishing is about to begin so keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

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