FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

*************

1,699 P0sts

When I started this 13 years ago, give or take a year, I never envisioned it would be what it turned into or last as long as it has.  Over the years it has gone from for the fun of it, to hard core fishing and writing, to what it is today, simply a labor of love.  I admit to periods of burn out and flat-out apathy.  But along the way there has been some awesome adventures, some big fish, and great friends.  As I sit here on a beautiful Colorado morning dreaming of what is next I can only marvel the blog has lasted this long.  So a real big thanks to all of you, what comes next who knows, but it will always involve my love of the sport.

************

On my third trip north the sheep finally appeared, or I got a little better at figuring it out.  It was puzzling they were not down where they often are in the winter but there is a difference.  There is a ton of snow at the bottom of this area but if you look at the pic below, it is a lot sparser farther up, funny after all the snow we have had.  This is around 9,000 feet give or take a couple of hundred.

This is parked beside the road.  Do you see them?  Just wanted to give you a sense of how far away they are.

On getting to the general area, which is a 5 mile stretch, I saw 4 way up so went on to the end of the ridges and turned around.  One thing I had learned in the past is it is possible to not see them going one way but then then turn around and they stick out like a sore thumb.  And that is what happened.  They were on the second bench at the base of that rock face.

And there they are.  This shot was with the lens full out from the same spot as the one above.

And today I learned the most important indicator, areas on the ridges with little snow with something growing there they like to eat.  So instead of close to the road they are about midway up the rocks  (Funny when you consider a mountain a “rock”.) where you could see little open patches.

This girl was way up there, love it when they outline themselves like that.

It is so hard to get that great focus shooting that far away with a long lens out a truck window.  It would be so easy to remedy that by getting out the tripod.  But the problem, it is on a curvy 2 lane highway with no place to pull off.  It is nice when they cooperate and are in a good place for that but dang animals, they are not concerned with my issues.

Not a mature ram in sight.

This girl was in a different place.  Actually saw them in 3 places today.

She was on the same terrain as the others.  Initially did not see her but her yearling, who it seemed she was watching over, had a big white butt and stuck out like a sore thumb.  Not sure what they are feeding on, but the places had a “color” just a little different than the rest of the mountains.  And like always it was just good to see them, not sure if the rams are ganging up but if I was guessing and I am they have and headed up.  The weather is going to be fairly nice so they may just all disappear soon.

And on a seperate random note took a drive yesterday to a different area hoping to see some elk and stuck out. (Nice to have a cool drive on the way to pick up milk.) The potential is there but it may have simply been timing.  Then when I dropped in on happy hour 2 of my friends saw a couple of bunches right down the road.  You just never know.

**************The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

**************

The big bucks are showing the wear and tear of the rut.  What were some nice racks have really declined and the bucks are feeling it.

You can tell they are recovering.  This guy had a rough rut.  Not only missing stuff on his left look at the split in his ear.

This guy was right next to the other one.  He busted his rack all up this fall.  And now they are hanging with each other so no hard feelings.

***************

While my focus on fishing has drastically evolved, I still peruse the boats for sale in Texas and Colorado on almost a daily basis.  I often make fun of the ads and folks’ description of their boat for sale.  But today I saw an ad that says it all about where fishing is going.

I have long ranted on the rising cost of fishing in all areas, and the trend that implies that somehow spending big money means success could not be further from the truth.  The result is fishing on a march to becoming a rich man’s game.  The marketing nonsense that it takes a $4oo reel and $3oo rod to catch 15″ trout and that it somehow makes you all that is ridiculous.  And I worry the affect it has on young kids who are not from rich entitled families and know that what is now depicted as “real” fishing by the industry is not in their future.  So, with that said here is what set me off this morning as I looked at boats for sale:

2022 SCB R24 450R – $145,000.

Are you kidding me!  A used 2-year-old boat for $145,000 is insane.  Now it is a top of the line boat for sure and I can sort of understand (Barely) maybe a tournament fisherman or guide wanting the best ride, but this is just over the top.  Kind of reminds me of the online memes making fun of the guy with a $100k bass boat trying to win $100 bucks in his local club tournament.

It makes me sad thinking about kids who love to fish and this is the picture portrayed to them as normal.  It is not normal.  Some of the best fishermen I have known over the last 50 years neither boat size nor equipment brands motivated them.  I hate the implication that the jon boat guy fishing a Zebco is any less of a fisherman than the “fishing shirt” crowd.  The monitorization of the fishing business, which has intensified tenfold the last 20 years with the internet, has been both good and bad for the sport.

Nor do I get off the hook.  My 16.8 Champ with a Black Max would do 72 miles an hour 40 years ago.  And man oh man when the new stuff came out I jumped right on the band wagon.  Money was not an issue; I did not have any but still found a way to buy in.  And of course I have the shirt, in fact dozens of them.   So to all the kids out their keep dreaming, but it has nothing to do with the stuff, it is all about love of the sport.  Sorry it has gotten so expensive.

(Sorry if this is somewhat disjointed but hope you get the general point.)

***************

The Other End of the Spectrum

I guess I had heard of Temu but after seeing their ads on the Super Bowl I decided to take a look and see if they have fishing stuff.  And boy do they.  Stuff was dirt cheap compared to stores.  So what is the problem?

From Time Magazine: But the company—the U.S. offshoot of Chinese e-commerce giant Pinduoduo—is also starting to develop a reputation for undelivered packages, mysterious charges, incorrect orders, and unresponsive customer service. Temu has already been subject to more than 30 complaints to the Better Business Bureau, and has a BBB customer rating of less than 1.5 stars.  (Note: according to online sources there are now more than 100.)

What I saw on the site was stuff so cheap it was worrisome.  Additional complaints are things did not look like they did on the site or were inferior.  So what to make of it?  Check it out for yourself.  For me I have decided to not shop there for the problems above plus 3 other reasons.  First it is a Chinese company and I try to buy American as much as I can.  And second, I try to support our small fishing businesses.  Last, some of the products looked like there might be some patent infringement issues, a common Chinese rip off.  So buyer beware.

**************

The weather has really settled down and looks like no “real” snow in the forecast.  It has been getting to 40 most days and it looks like that pattern will continue, maybe until the Boss gets here in 11 days.  As I will miss her birthday we will be celebrating it somewhere cool the week she is here.  Then back to Texas and I am really looking forward to finishing the rigging on the Lund and getting back on the lake.  With the high water the fishing should be off the chain and I can get the rest of the engine hours broke in.  Hope you all have a great week.  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

It never ceases to amaze me how stunning it is here.

**************

It has been a little cold and snowy around here, as in almost 20″ in a couple of days.  Since then it has been a flurry or 2 but the forecast for the next 10 days is sunny and the low 40’s.  The critters in the neighborhood are having to work a little harder but thanks to a couple of folks they are well fed.  In the morning the turkey and deer have a route, and it goes through my back yard.  At times I see all of them hassling first thing in the morning in the neighbor’s yard.

A big tom right outside the window.

The snow is deep but I was hoping it would bring out the wildlife a little better but other than getting closer to the elk, the sheep were just not out, at least where I could see them.

Still got his hat but it won’t be long.

There is still a ton of mule deer around, but the bucks are a lot more skittish now that the rut is over.  So every day I am on my walk I carry the camera, you never know.  There was a smaller buck short half his antlers yesterday, so the shedding is in full swing.  Will be interested in to see if I find one on my walks.

**************The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

**************

The morning of the Super Bowl I got up early and headed north to see what was out.  After a day with no additional snow, at least down low it seemed like a good time to see what was out.  But being at the right place at the right time is a learning experience, and I learned something.

Wintering Elk.

Everybody keep in line.

It was 12 degrees at the house heading out, and that turned out to be the warmest it would be for quite a while.  The roads were so so, but almost clear and once I got going the temp varied from -7 to zero for quite a while.  The sun was out and the expectations to see some sheep was high, but it did not happen.  Not sure whether they were waiting for a warmer sun, or they have just moved.  There was little roadside evidence they had been down.  But next time will wait until mid afternoon and see if that improves my chances.

There was an elk or two in the valley.

After passing the sheep area the valley where the elk winter was loaded with elk.  Last time they were way off but this time closer to the road and in 2 bunches.  If you notice on the pic above it is easy to see where they are feeding.  And while I was not real close I did manage to get a couple of better pictures.

Hanging with my posse.

I spent some time watching in the binocs and you could tell they were getting ready to head back to the tree line.  Winter is the time to see big herds and it last until it really warms and they head way up to the real woods.  While we see a few here or there on our explorations it is rare to see a herd not related to the migration, either coming or going.  But I enjoy seeing them whenever or wherever they happen to be.   And we will get better at finding them, so many roads to explore and you never know what might cross your path.

And that happened this morning as I headed back to the house.  I rounded a corner and a big coyote crossed the road at a full run.  I sped up to try to catch him for a picture and he jumped in the ditch and literally disappeared.  Must have been a good 3 feet of snow.  I am trying to get the camera, slow down and open the window.  Meanwhile he is having to jump to get through the snow.  He crossed the fence and hit some trees right when I got there.  While no picture he was beautiful standing in the tree line watching me.  The kind of thing that led us here and keeps us exploring.

*************

Congrats to the Chiefs, what a finish.  All I have to say about that is the decision by the 49ers to take the football first in overtime might be one of the worst decisions in the history of the Super Bowl.  Never ever give Patrick the chance to win any game by giving him last chance to score and win.  Reminds me of Elway, Farve, Manning and a few others.  Once he got the ball it was over.  Headed to being one of the best, maybe the best, of all time.

***************

Too bad it did not work out this year to attend the Houston Fishing Show and work the booth with Michael.  And it is always great to see Jason and Tim at the Wade Right booth.  (And get pump up on the Chandelier trip that they were kind enough to include me 5 years ago.)  I have been a loyal supporter of both their products and cannot recommend them any higher.  There will be some new stuff and Michael always has a deal.  So stop and get a new wading belt, load up with Knockin Tails and head to the bay.  They are both proven winners.

*************

It has been fun but looking forward to the Boss getting here in 2 weeks.  She will be here for a little over a week before we head back.  At this point I am starting to get boat excited and as soon as I get back I will finish the rigging and the fishing will begin.  The plan is staying in Texas until after the Chandelier trip in early May, taking advantage of spring fishing, then back here which is perfect timing for ice out.  I really am looking forward to the new fishing adventure.  The prospects for catching Kokane, Lake Trout and pike has my fishing juice flowing.  So hang in there the fishing will return in less than a month with a vengence.  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

***************

Everywhere you look.  The Lake City area has plenty of peaks in the 13,000 foot range.  (Can’t imagine how much snow is there now!)

The weather looked good today, and there was no big deal on the roads so time for a drive.  Today I headed north and ended up crossing the divide in search of moose.  I have only seen 3 since we have been here and conditions seemed right for wildlife chasing, but things were not as they might have seen.

The highway goes north to Lake City and Lake San Cristobal.  The highway crosses the Continental Divide and is winding and a cool drive.  With the roads so clear it was a great day to head that way as that area is known for their moose, we saw one up there last year.  A side benefit is the highway goes by a couple of areas with bighorns, and a big wintering range at the base of the high mountains for the elk.

This was one big gang of elk crossing one of their wintering areas.  They are way out there.

As I neared their winter range it seemed like there was a line of ants way off in the distance crossing a field in a big valley.  Too bad there is no place to park or drive to get a better view, but you take what you can get.

Reaching out with the long lens.

As there was a beat down place in the field you could see where they were feeding and they seemed to be heading back to the mountain.  And since on my way back 2 hours later there was not an elk in sight obviously they headed back in the woods.

Let me take a minute to comment on the weather.  It has been warm with little snow, and it has affected the wildlife.  Without the heavy snow the big bunch of Bighorns were nowhere in sight, though I did see the smaller bunch below on the way up.  Everything I saw was early and once morning changed to afternoon things just disappeared,

As close as the 600mm will let me get.  Unfortunately, this particular wintering place has no way to get closer.  But I love seeing them and spent time watching on the binoculars.

Without the heavy snow pack in the higher places it has kept the big bunch of sheep high up in the mountains as I assume it is easier to get something to ear.  Same with the elk.  But seeing dozens of elk and a group of sheep is nothing to sneeze at and I still enjoy seeing them.  (And that will change with today’s snow.)

**************The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

**************

Lake San Cristobal is definitely on the fishing agenda as soon as ice is out, plus Lake City and it are both known for moose.  With a huge bottom running along the lake and then further in the mountains it is moose territory.  There is extensive creek bottoms in the area and it looks like moose country.  Since you can put all I know about moose in a thimble it is still the chase.  After seeing lots in Tetons and a few in Yellowstone and Alaska they are one cool creature and sure are big.  But it was not to be today but hard to complain when you see serious wildlife and cross the divide at 13,000.  Nothing but stunning.

With little snow, comparatively not many sheep out today, or if they were they were back up on the mountain.

This bunch was on the turn to one of my favorite roads to drive in the woods.  I wish the pictures were better but it was early and the light was not quite there.  The small rams were butting heads, jumping around and just plain acting crazy and it was fun to watch.  The couple of pics I did get were blurry so these are the size of it.

This was the only ram in the bunch, at least a mature one.

These guys were butting heads until he ran the small ones off.  The few I did see this morning were rambunctious.

*************

Today on the other hand is a new day.  The snow forecasts are all over the place but looks like the 24″+ is on the way to be the winner.  It started right after dark and is still coming down.  The work is about to begin but it is absolutely stunning.

Not thinking the shovel will get the job done today.

Here in South Fork and in the valley, this is so welcome.  Not only will it bring the skiers to the mountain but the snowmobilers will be running wild.  This areas winter economy is based on one thing – snow.  And as part of the bigger picture the valley has been in a drought and the rivers and lakes rely on the snow.  This will go a long way to helping with that.

The long beards in the backyard.  This gives you an idea of how hard it is snowing.

It is a good foot with the forecast that it will continue the next 24 hours.  So before I get the beast of a snowblower out will just wait and see what the rest of the day brings.  A warm fire and a good book will be the order of the day, at least until I cannot stand it anymore and out comes the beast.  Living here is an adventure and I love every minute of it.

Downtown South Fork.  Home sweet home!

**************

Thanks to my buddy Jesse for picking up a package when we were gone before the porch pirates got it.  It is “almost” the last of the boat rigging stuff.  Can not wait to get back next month and put the finishing touches on it.  One area of fishing that is new to me is kokanee fishing.  Basically, a genetic cousin to the sockeye they are filter feeders but are catchable in some of the area lakes.  I have caught a few randomly from the bank but trolling is the way to go and the new boat is specifically for the area lakes and fishing.  The one I cruised to the other day actually has lake trout so I am really looking forward to this new fishing challenge.  So, while there is no fishing on the blog that is about to change.  Please keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

*************

Racing the sun in the New Mexico high plains on the way to our Rocky Mountain home.  So happy to be heading back.

The Boss is with me this trip.  While she will only be here 3 days before she flies back there is a method to her madness.  She actually planned it this way to help me with the drive which I really appreciate.  Then she will fly back at the end of the month for a longer stay before driving home with me.  And thanks for that but she has been jonesing for some Colorado time and getting to enjoy the house and labor of her hard work.  As I have said so many times in the past, I really got lucky and married way above my pay grade.

**********

Happy to be Back

The weather here has been amazing the last month or so and we were so happy to see our critters.  As you can see from the pic below the tine dropping has begun.  The rule in Colorado is you can not shed hunt on public land until mid April but private land is ok.  I am sure walking the neighborhood we will find a few.

The guy across the street.  Let the shedding begin.

Of course the turkeys are up to their usual nonsense and our backyard gets a daily visit.  It seems the toms have ganged up and they were starting to do a little tail flashing and bickering with each other so can’t wait for spring and the gobbling to begin.  It is such a sight when we have 10 or 15 gobblers in the backyard in full strut.

Our resident turkeys right out the back window.  When the sun is out you get a true measure of their colors.

The snow started sometime last night and we have a good 5″ with more in the forecast.  Some areas, including Wolf Creek Pass right above us could get up to 24″ which will send the skiers into a frenzy.  But it sure is beautiful and comes with the territory.

Good morning South Fork.

*************

Navajo Lake

One of the lakes that is on my list big time is Navajo Lake.  Sitting on the border of Colorado and New Mexico, the majority is in New Mexico.  With up to 30,000+ surface acres it reminds me of Lake Norfork in Arkansas, long and winding with coves and creeks.  It has everything from monster pike, crappie, lots of smallmouth, trout, among others.  The reports I have seen in the past the smallmouth fishing can be off the chain.  And it has plenty of big pike, some reaching the magical 50″ mark.

Colorado Parks & Wildlife – Navajo (state.co.us)

We decided to take a drive for a little scouting of amenities as I plan on fishing it consistently.  We stopped at the office and met the local parks and wildlife lady and the marina operator.  As usual I forgot to get names (I will correct that next trip.) but they were great and I learned much of what I need to know.  I was especially interested in learning about the boating rules as the lake is in Colorado there are specific regulations to stop the spread of aquatic pests.  Unlike Texas which pays lip service to the spread Colorado actually has inspection stations at many lakes where they physically clear your boat before you hit the water.  I still have plenty of questions on the process but the folks there gave me a good overview and I really look forward to fishing the lake.  Nothing like big pike to make your day.

Unfortunately, I am having some kind of issue either with the big camera, the card, or the computer and downloading is turning into some kind of hassle.  On the way to the lake we saw a big bunch of elk and there are some great pictures on the camera that for some reason I can not get off but will get it figured out one way or the other.  We also saw a cool coyote, some turkeys, and enough mule deer to last a lifetime.  So, excuse the lack of pictures I will figure it out soon.

**************

Houston Fishing Show

After working the booth with Michael at the Houston Fishing Show in the past I will miss it again this year.  But to all of you attending please stop by the Knockin Tail booth, say hello and buy some baits.  Michael always has a deal and it is a good time to save money.  On the Colorado note I cannot wait wear the smallmouth on Navajo out on them and to toss the 5″ on those big pike.

**************The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

**************

I personally love the new speckled trout rules.  For me catching bigger fish is always the hope and rarely eat enough to make a miniscule dent in the population.  And there is one side effect that will entertain me.  When we went to 5 it made it easier to catch a limit and the Facebook warriors that only post when they smack em without disclosing squat will be in heaven.  Now the one trick ponies can brag about a 3 fish limit.  But more than anything I really hope it reduces the dead trout on the front of the boat pictures.  Those seem to be seriously lacking respect to the fish.  But to each his own.

************

As soon as I get back in a month will put the finishing touches on the rigging of the new boat.  After much research and reading I finally decided to go with a non-screwed on transducer mounting plate. I used major adhesive and will have let it set a month.  After watching several videos, it should be fine, remember it is on a aluminum with a 25hp, not like speed will be an issue.  So, when I get back will post the before and after pictures.  And looking forward to fishing March – May as it will be my last spring fishing in Texas so intend to make the most of it.

*************

A reader comment.

Hey Buddy,
Now i know where all the trash goes downstream in the Guadalupe. Its bad up here in san antonio. They look for volunteers all the time cleaning up the river, creeks from all the crap going down. And Never Get it all. Would think they would invest in a catch system for the trash.

On GPS, you have a phone with maps to get ya back to ramp. Remember the old Garmin handhelds. I think they still make used for hiking and a backup. I had a Lowrance go out on Toledo Bend. That was fun…

My shoulder had fixed up nicely with surgery 30aug, just need to work on strength. Ready to start fishing for the spring….

I have commented several times on just how dirty and trash filled Texas is.  For a state so self proud litter apparently is not an issue.  And as usual when the lake comes up the litter floats and boy was it floating.  One of the things I liked about Oregon.  The signs said fines up to $6000 for littering and the roadsides were fairly clean.  They should have fines for the dirtbags that continue to throw dirty diapers in the Wal Mart parking lot.  Would hate to see the inside of their house.

And of all things I actually have the old Garmin handheld.  But for me the bigger reason besides getting home is one in the back for trolling and mapping and one in the front for vertical jigging.  When I finally get the rigging done it is going to be nice.  And glad you are recovering; the fishing is about to begin.  Crank up that Bass Cat.

*************

Things will settle down around here after I drop the Boss off at the airport.   I will get back to chasing wildlife and specifically the sheep.  And hopefully will be able to get north with the better chance of seeing the moose, but as it is around here it is road/snow dependent.  Then when I get back it will be fishing until I drop.  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

************

It has been raining for a couple of days now and it looks like we have a couple additional inches (or more) on the way.  It is possible the Gaudalupe will hit major flood stage, and with some areas north of here already getting 8″+ and still raining it should do just that.  We can whine all we want about the rain but we need it.  The Boss and I took a little ride to Coleto (Wednesday) and on the way crossed the Guadalupe.  The river was higher and muddy, but not excessively, and the water has come up at the lake.  There are a couple of reasons I bring this up.  Of course the water level and the ramp.

Yesterday  Much better.  We were getting closer to having to watch out for the end of the ramp when backing in.

I decided to hold off posting this report yesterday to for a comparison.  Today.  It came up a ton overnight.

Notice the small point right past the sign on the right, and that the sign was out of the water. 

When I put in the other day if you drew a line from that point across to the campground that is where the water ended and land began.  So the whole backend is now covered with water though it is only a few inches it is a sign of things to come.  It will be a lot higher when I put in tomorrow.

What will make tomorrow interesting is just what will happen with all the new water.  It will not help the sonar/gps are not in yet so I will have no idea what the temp will be other than the rain has been in the 60′ so it should be similar to what it was before the rain.  Nor will I have mapping but at this point but not needed on Coleto.

Over the decades I have seen a huge reservoir come up 29 feet in 24 hours, to absolute mud baths dropping the water temp 25 degrees and everything else between.  So tomorrow will be paying big attention to watercolor first and foremost.  Then 2 stops at newly flooded back ends of defined creeks to be sure they did not move with the rise.  That is something you do not want to miss, especially if the new water is significantly warmer than the lake, because if they come it is in mass and results in epic catching.  Pretty sure that will no be the case, it not quite “late” enough in the pre-spawn.  It is often best when right before the spawn but no matter that is easily checked.  The next check is newly flooded grass near deep water, again easily ruled out but in my dreams that is where they will be because we are about to have lots of it.  And of course, it lends itself to how I like to fish.  If neither of them works out will just seek out the usual wintering spots and go from there.  Over the years there are times when it seems like they disappear, and is often a good bit until things settle down.   When all is said and done you just do not know until you go.

***********

Today

I actually caught a few.

I decided to head to the lake specifically for the purpose of adding a few more hours to the engine and get it closer to broke in.  After our visit to the lake yesterday just to check it was amazing crossing the Guadalupe as it was full on flooding with more to come.  When I crossed Coleto Creek itself it was flooding so I knew water was going over the spillway and boy was it.  So, once I got to the ramp I was not surprised.  But as you can see from the picture above it came up a good 2 1/2 feet overnight.

I was not really expecting to catch fish so I just headed up lake to see where the mud line was.  Actually the whole lake is off color and there is literally trash everywhere.  As you head above the bridge and round the corner it was completely trashed out.  So to check the plant arm headed back down and just stopped here and there.  The discharge was running full steam and it was cold with a few dead tilapia.  I did stop and ask the only other guy out what the water temp was and he said 57, so not a big drop.

Swim jig was the ticket today, and I caught 4.  Re-fishing the area with other stuff produced not a bite.

Once you head up the plant arm when you get to the houses and the big turn it was muddied out with tons of trash.  In fact almost all the coves had trash floating, and the only place the water color was worth a hoot was the lower end, but I expect that to change as more water comes.  I have not seen the lake this high in years.

The ones I did catch I never felt, it just got mushy.

The plan today was to drive a half hour, stop and check a place real quick and move on.  I was hoping to get several hours in and before it was over I probably checked 6 places, and other than one spot not a bite.  But I stuck to the plan and the place that had a few was what I suspected, flooded buck brush on a point near deep water.  Without a sonar, they will be here tomorrow, I can only guess the water temp there and how deep they were, but it was in the 3′ range.

So after catching 4 I went for my half hour ride and came back and decided to try and feed them something else.  As the afternoon heated up there were small baitfish flicking here and there so I wallowed a spinnerbait through the brush without a bite.  Went for another ride and came back and slow rolled a swimbait through, with success.  So to finish out the afternoon went for another ride and came back, and re-fishing it with a swim jig did not produce a bite.  So I called it a big boat ride and hit the ramp.

This rise had the tilapia not knowing what was up.  Plenty of dead ones floating and others swimming around aimlessly.  If you like to bow fish now is the time.  Not sure what part of the rise and temp change affected them but it was sure evident something did.  Your guess is as good as mine what will happen next but I am thinking if it warms up it could be good soon.  Even though I just found 1 place with fish as soon as it stabilizes just a hair and the sun gets on some of expect to find some fish shallow.  I am heading to Colorado next week so will miss this next bite but they are coming to the bushes soon and it could get ugly.

*************

90 years and counting!

I got this comment from my number one reader, who has been with me the longest.

Your Amazing Journey continues apace. Give my love to The Boss as you say a year-long Farewell to Texas, her hospital, and your bi-continental lifestyle. Drop in when you’ve time, thanks for being here for my stupendous 90th, take care of two of my most favorite people. I love you both so much. WFC.

Here is the family.  The crowd was much bigger as many folks came to pay their respects.

It was a great time as many of her friends joined the family for my mother’s 90th birthday New Years Eve.  We were also joined by my uncle Norm (front left) who is having his birthday today.  It had been a while since we were all in the same place, it is a new world unlike when folks were often born and stayed in the same area a lifetime.  But it was good to see everyone until next time.  Congrats to my mom, she has lived a long and eventful life and most of us could be that lucky.

************

I got a comment with a new addition to this nice site the other day, which I thank them.  Some good reads so stop in and turn a page or two.

The Best Fishing Spots Near Me: Local Hotspots for Reeling in Trophy Fish – Sporting Goods Pros

**************The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

**************

Rigging

I am having sonar/gps fatigue.  As I continue to rig the boat just the way I want it there are a couple of small things to do and then the 2 majors.  I need to upgrade the trailer tires to a radial one size larger.  Weight is not an issue, so it comes down to the need for high-speed highway towing, and strength for the gravel roads to get into many of the high mountain lakes.

But searching the sonar/gps selection is driving me nuts.  Several riggings ago I made the decision to mount the same manufacturers locators so that they were switchable in case of failure.  And that happened with my last Garmins.  The bigger one on the console went out so was able to take the one off the front and still fish and have GPS.  Of course, the bigger issue is to be sure no matter where I was that should one go out, I would have a GPS available.  Using the Everglades or Lake of the Woods as an example, it would be a real problem if you were way the hell and gone and you lose the GPS with no clue how to get back.

So there lies my current dilemma, should I buy one fancy high dollar unit or continue with the plan that has served me well?  Both options would basically cost the same.  While the majority of the lakes I will fish in Colorado all you have to do is turn around and there is the ramp, almost impossible to get lost, but if the high dollar one fails I am out of luck until it gets repaired.  (My life is littered with broken and out of date locators.  It happens more time than not.) And as I still plan on returning to Canada and other far-off destinations at some point having a backup is just good practice.

After writing the paragraph above my dilemma is over, I am going to buy two with built in basemaps and call it a day.  Done, order made and ship to the house in a couple of days.  And that is it, no more stuff.  But here is what will be done at the end of the week:  Trailer guide on posts, rod holders, step, trolling motor, battery, locators, motor lock, trolling motor supports, and the transom plate for mounting transducers, glad the spending is done!  It has been fun but will sure be glad when I am finished rigging.  At least some entertainment while it rains for the next few days.  First time I have ever got a boat exactly the way I want it out of the gate.  It is going to be a fishing machine.

As a side note just found a lake in the middle of Colorado that pays $20 for every northern pike brought to the dock.  I accept that challenge.

************

THE NRA

It appears the group has lost its way and is now nothing more than a flat rip off, full of lies and theft.  If you have been sending them money you have been taken to the cleaners.

In the plaintiffs’ opening arguments on Monday, January 8, attorney Monica Connell said LaPierre embezzled millions. All of which he spent on “lavish perks” for himself. These include personal use of private jets, expensive meals, private security, and trips to the Bahamas.

Of course, LaPierre had notes from doctors that said he is so sick he can not sit for questioning for long periods.  How did that go over with the Judge – He wants certified documents on the “excuse”.  Anyone want to bet that the real certified doctors note do not arrive?  What, next come to court with a walker?

Then Oliver North who was president of the NRA for only year before being pushed out for trying to address the rip offs, testified today and it is becoming clearer that LePierre is nothing more than a scum bag.  But you may be ok with a charity, which the NRA is, spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on clothes, millions on travel, extravagant meals at expensive restaurants, gigantic legal fees, much less inflated salaries.  Looks like before it is over the taking may total 10’s of millions of dollars “misappropriated.  (Or as regular folks would say – ripped off.)  From gun safety and education to nothing more than a money printing machine.  You have been hoodwinked, and the reputation of the NRA is in ruins.  Sad because the NRA has a place protecting our 2cnd amendment rights.

*************

I was going to wait and post this tomorrow after I fished but wanted to post the pictures of the ramp and water level to compare it with tomorrow.  While I hope to catch fish, who doesn’t when you have a rod in your hand, there is another purpose tomorrow.  (Written yesterday.) I need to put 5 1/2 more hours to the break in procedure and want to get most of it done tomorrow so I am good to go.  But today is the last of it as I head back to Colorado for 6 weeks.  And if you are heading to the lake soon, please be careful, it is a “new” lake with tons of floating stuff.  It has been quite a few years since it has been this high and my anticipation for March thru May is high.  When the water is in the bushes Coleto is one great lake.  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

**************

Today was a new day, and homage to the past.  Approximately 50 years ago I went to Arkansas to be fishing guide.  Talk about a rebel without a clue that was me, but I digress.  My first boat was a 14 foot Evinrude with a 25hp motor.  I have been through somewhere around 12-14 boats, they all run together.  Big Champs with a mercury Black Max.  Several old cigar style before the pad and then the V.  Big ones little ones I have had my share.   Now here it is all these years later and I have returned to my roots.

A nice fish, she thumped it.  One of two I caught but fish were not the reason I was out there today.

Monday I picked up the new boat.  It has been in the works all last year as I searched high and low for the perfect boat for the high Rockies lakes, a tiller good for trolling and easy to tow.  I saw plenty of Lunds, the standard in aluminum boats and just kept looking.  I saw several 1400 Fury for sale which looked small to me.  But with the big move coming time to finally go to the dealer and take a look.  And I was pleasantly surprised.

The new ride.

I envisioned small but the 1400 is actually 2″ short of 15′, and being a deep V has plenty of freeboard.  The Boss was all in with new once she saw it and who does not love a wife like that?  I had them mount a Merc 25hp 4stroke leaving the rest of the rigging for me so I could pick out what I want, not what they sell.

A lot more amenities than I thought until I looked at them.  Rod storage for 7 footers, bilge pump, aerated live well, and wired for a trolling motor and battery placement.

I started with a hand control TM and bought a 12 volt freshwater which saved serious money, it has been 24 volts for years.  It was a job to mount but I got it just the way I want it.   There is a bunch of stuff to come from Amazon then a trip to Bass Pro to finish the rigging but I was anxious to get on the water and see how it does.  And I am still deciding what GPS/sonar to buy.  This is the last boat I will ever buy or rig and I am going slow and making sure once anything is on there it is exactly what I want.

Since the engine is not broken in, they put 45 minutes on it so that was next up.  If you have ever broke any motors in you know the drill:  10 hours at variable speed, do not exceed 75% of throttle, limited trolling speed.  It can be somewhat a chore so today the purpose was to work on hours, so I spent almost 4 hours up and down the lake.  Went way up the Coleto arm, then all the way to the intake, then back up lake.  Breaking them in is a little boring but I follow it to the letter, why the boat I sold had over 16oo hours and it still runs like a top.  Take care of them and they will take care of you.

When I got back to the ramp 2 real advantages became apparent.  It used a little over 2 gallons, it has been while since I covered that much ground for so little.  But my favorite, just stuck the nose on the trailer and cranked it on like nothing.  Love that!  And you did not have to back in so far to get it off which is nice.  It road well and once I got the throttle and motor tension right it steered like a pro and was easy to use.  It is definitely a new/old adventure but it sure was perfect for Coleto and will fill the bill on the Colorado lakes.  We will be heading out in less than 2 weeks so hopefully will get to fish some more and knock those hours out.

And by the way the 2 I caught were on the swim jig and 1 of the 2 I missed chased it to the boat and blew up on it.  Obviously the weather the last few days knocked them for a loop.  As I have not mounted a locator yet not sure how cold the water was but talked to a guy at the ramp and it was 51 at the discharge.  That is cold.

**************The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

**************

Iowa

Since we bought the house in Colorado we get plenty of questions about winter.  Colorado folks wanted to know if we are going to spend our winters there, which is a big yes, part of the reason we are moving there.  Folks in Texas ask us about the cold and wonder why we would do that.  So, I point you to the current weather in Iowa.  The Boss and I while not knowing each other grew up in Iowa.  As I tell folks when the wind is blowing 30 across the flat lands and it is 0 degrees it gives a new meaning to cold.  Where we are in Colorado it is more of a snow issue.  The great thing about retirement, turn on the stove, grab a blanket, a hot toddy and a good book, or get out the snowshoes, it does not get any better than that.

*************

It has been an interesting past few weeks since I returned from Colorado.  My mom’s 90th in Arkansas, then I got sick with the Covid for 2 weeks, bought a new boat, sold a boat,  went to San Antonio for service and cross bars on the truck which turned out to be broken so I have to head back next week, boat rigging, the last few weeks have had it all.  I thought this retirement thing was supposed to be easy and suffice to say it has cut into the fishing time.  But hopefull the next couple of weeks before I head back out I can remedy some of the no fishing thing.  So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

**************

Insanity Knows no Boundaries.

AOC is now agreeing with some Republicans, as is other Democrats, that they need a raise from $176,000.   Are you freakin kidding me!  First this is not supposed to be a career, serve a term or two for the good of the country and back to real life.  Hell we have folks in Congress and several presidents current and past that almost need embalming!  Second that amount is 3x what the average American makes.  Third until both parties start doing their job and acting civilly the most they deserve is a pay cut.  Last, they take more time off than I do.  We need term limits.  I used to debate that point with my brother-in-law and he said we should not have them for the need of institutional memory.  Bullshit, there is no part of their actions that deserve anything other than condemnation and a ticket home.

************

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

Unfortunately it has been a while since I wrote.  While still in Colorado my charging cord on the laptop went out and did not get replaced until the other day.  Then a stop in Arkansas for my mom’s 90th and then the kicker – Covid.  We get home and I get sick.  9 days later and I finally feel better than roadkill.  At least no fever for days so not contagious, just feel like crap.  Getting old is not all it is cracked up to be, but sure beats the alternative.

That is the reason the only time I got on the water was Monday afternoon for a couple of hours.  I finally could not take it as the white bass were calling me.  I have fished the spring run all over for 50 years and looking back on Coleto reports the time is now.   And with the Boss wanting a fish fry I headed up lake, out came the crankbaits and I put 6 in the boat.  They are actually pretty good ones for Coleto where they have a tendency to run small.  I had a couple of cooler pics to share but as my luck has been running could not get them downloaded.  Suffice to say it is Wednesday and tomorrow morning let the killing begin.  Will have the report up in a day or two.

But the real big news – I sold my LTS.  After 13 years of great service it just does not make the Colorado grade.  And it is going to a good home, he bought it basically for his 12 y/o grandson who has the fishing bug and wants to learn to fish for the high school tournaments.  I know how excited the young man will be when he hears the news.  I know if my grandpa pulled up with a boat when I was 12 I would have cried and pooped my pants.  Good luck young man.

And the buyer was kind enough to let me use it for a few days to smack the white bass.  But I am going to miss her, she has been all over and in the grander scheme never let me down, but time for a boat more suited to the small Colorado lakes and gravel road access.  Made an offer today on a totally different boat, so waiting to get a response.  This will be like number 14+ and will be the last of the boat buying.  (Note: Thanks Boss.  I am one spoiled little guy.) Off on a new adventure.

**************The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

**************

MONDAY

The ones I caught the other day.  Fish fry.

I caught a total of around a dozen, counting small bass and kept just enough of the better whites for a fish fry and then left them biting.  Half came on jerk bait and half on crankbait.  I was trolling in the 2-3mph range running them about 50′ behind the boat and most came out of 6′ of water.  Since I was not feeling all that hot it was simply a quick meat run for the Boss.  When she wants a fish fry she gets a fish fry, and this time of year white bass is usually on the menu.  So, after that quick trip I was hoping for a big day today, but alas it was not to be.

THURSDAY

They were just not in there like last strip.

Not sure why they would not hit a crankbait today, so fed them small jerk baits.

This was the size of it today.

I headed back up lake where I got them Monday with high hopes.  The water temp was 61 degrees and the color is not all that bad.  (Note: The water temp is in the mid 60’s down lake.)  The wind was blowing out of the SW at around 15mph when I started, ended up a good 20mph.  As a side not there was a good dozen trucks at the ramp at 9:00.

The only thing they seemed to want today was the small jerk bait, but you could hardly call 2 “they”.  I did manage 6 small bass, half on crankbait and one on a Pearl Knocking Tail on a 1/4oz jig head.  Keeping the speed from 2-3 mph ended up covering tons of water where they normally are but it was just not happening.  The main difference, and one that often does make a real difference is the sun did not come out.  Often when the sun comes out it pulls the shad up and here comes the whites.  Not sure if the bite is just starting or heading towards done, only time on the water will answer that one.

After spending way to long it was time to do a little bass fishing as the other was sure not working.  That ended up producing 3 smalls on swim jig, one on spinnerbait, and missed a couple on plastics.  By time I gave it up it was blowing like crazy and there was only 3 trucks left when I got to the ramp.  Unfortunately, high winds is the exact forecast for tomorrow.  So, with the weather going to crap here in Texas not sure when I will get out next.  The wind is supposed to really blow out of the North so will at least get up in the morning and check it out.  Who knows, just might get a little fishing in before the big front on Monday.

**************

And speaking of Monday will be taking the truck to San Antonio for the first checkup, and on the way back will be picking up my new boat.  I am really excited as it is the “Colorado” boat.  So until it is in the driveway will just leave it at that.  But it is start of a whole new fishing adventure.  Having multiple lakes within an hour with trout, kokanee and even lake trout it is going to be fun.

*************

In a little over 2 weeks it will be back to Colorado for a little over a month to check on stuff and have some snow time.  I will only be there about 6 weeks then back here for some fishing and the ongoing process of getting ready for the move.  It is amazing how much stuff you accumulate and we are really downsizing.  The only question in that department is how big the final garage sale will be.  As we are happy with the other house little of what we have here will be going.  And the Chandelier trip is looming in early May so not sure I want to make the drive back out until that is done.  And will want to use the new boat some, and I will rig the locators and trolling motor as soon as I decide what I need when I get back.  So plenty going on around here so keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines

****************

The Off Topic Zone –  Caution 

The Houthis terrorists were warned and now they get to reap just a little of the whirlwind.  Besides attacking commercial shipping, they have attacked our troops.  Hope it left a big mark. Thanks to the US military and stay safe.

Trump’s attorney Habba “BOOB” a Doo says that “I love Beer” Kavanaugh on the Supreme Court will rule in Trump’s favor because he “owes” him.  I hope that is not true because if it is the fix was in.  Where do they get these attorneys?  Oh, I know, parking lots.

It was good to see the Harvard President resign.  She might have weathered the storm until a historian reviewed all her published work and apparently found 50 incidents of plagiarism.  (I read some of them and she stole the works of others, end of story.  Some of it was blatant.)  One example could get you booted from law school, 50 is a pattern.  She blamed her resignation on race, but plagiarism knows no color or orientation.  The past can come back to haunt anyone anytime and if you are caught, you are caught.  Best to fess up instead of making excuses.

It is good to be back in Victoria for a while.  I miss high speed chases, officer involved shootings, drive by shootings and car break ins in the neighborhood.  Never a dull moment.

And “How about those Cowboys!!!”

*************

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

This is not the usual way I did the yearly review in the past but this year is just plain different.  As we spend more and more time in Colorado in anticipation of the permanent move at the end of the years the face of the blog and our life is changing.  So here is just a little of the last year.

This says it all about our year when we closed on our dream house at 8,500 feet in the Rockies.

There is a whole world of public land out there for all to use.

We never get tired of the views.

Snow comes with the territory.

While I was lucky enough to spend a lot of time the Boss came when she could and we spent every minute in the woods hiking and chasing animals.

Sheep

My favorite shot of the year.  They are so majestic.

And just how did you get there.

Love it when they are standing on the top of a ridge.

Fall, when everything with hooves is in the rut. 

These guys thought they were tough guys when they slammed heads, I was close enough to hear it.  Looks like the guy in the front won.

The Fishing

It is great to have the Rio Grande right down the street, and it is full of brown trout.

One colored up rainbow.

But if you want some stockers for the pan just head to one of the several local lakes close to the house

Of course, I put in my bass time and managed some nice ones.

While I did not fish the salt as much this year it always produced.

I could not be any prouder of these little guys from really small mountain streams on a flyrod.  A fun addition to my fishing habit.

*************The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

***************

We sure have some big mule deer bucks in Colorado.

They look so cool in velvet.

These 2 are an example of the day 9 this size came through the back yard together.  It was nothing short of amazing.

We saw plenty on our mountain drives.  Always worth getting up for.

Big bucks rub big trees.  The rut was in full swing all fall.

This guy was a stud.

Our resident Boss.  Fun to watch his rutting antics, no question who ran the show during the rut.

But the mule dear did get a little revenge.  We were on our way to Yellowstone before daylight when 5 miles out of town we hit a big buck at 65mph.  Tough way to get a new truck.

The Rest

I love this picture.  Kind of the blind hog finding the acorn.

Suffice to say we are overrun with turkeys.

Plenty of cow elk but did not see a big one this fall.

And I was surprised to find antelope near the house but east of here there are tons.

I love these guys

This little guy was close to the road.  1 of several we saw this year.

Would not want to hit one of these with the truck!

Monte Vista is known for the annual migration of Sandhill Cranes festival.  There are thousands of them.

This guy was about 15 feet behind the house.  He has been by a couple of times and we see quite a few on our drives.

And last is the best picture we could get of a big bear.  It was on the run, but the Boss got a shot when it was way up the mountain.  The happenings we live for.

Hope you liked a little of the last year.  From building a garage, totaling the truck, making lots of new friends in Colorado along with plenty of time on the road it has been a different year.  I usually make some plans or goals for the year as far as fishing goes, this year I do not have a clue what is to come.  The Chandeliers Islands is the big trip in May, and I plan on fishing the salt more as that will be coming to a close when we move.  But as you know I will have a rod in my hand somewhere.

The blog is now on approaching 14 years and this is the 1,491st post.  I hope to keep up and I can never thank all of you who have stuck with me.  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

**************

The weather has been pretty nice the last 2 weeks.  We have had a slight dusting or two after the big one, and from the forecast it looks like we are in for a white Christmas.  They are talking everywhere from 15 – 20″ of new snow this weekend.  It will be so welcome here as the skiers and snowmobilers are starting to show up, add a foot or two and winter sports will be in full swing in South Fork.  For me, the Alpine club just groomed the road to Big Meadow Reservoir and if we get the snow promised I will be taking a snowshoe hike on Christmas Day.  Nothing like dead silent,

Sheep Madness

After putting the garage project to bed, at least until I get back, it was time to go check on the sheep and see if there were any elk down in the area they wintered last year.  While no elk were out I got some great Bighorn shots.  They are such a majestic animal and no better time to see them than now.

A nice mature ram.

The fence is no big deal.

I like this shot.  They were doing a little pushing.  The rut is over for the ewes but the rams are still strutting their stuff.

While no big guy this is one cool looking ram.

What?  A 2 headed Bighorn?  No but is sure looks like it.

Scratching out supper.

Wish I could have gotten this from the side, but you just cannot make them do what and where you want.

This is 2 small rams that were fighting, just doing what the big boys do.   They were close enough I could hear them clash heads.  If you look closely the guy in back got literally stood up and lost that confrontation.  But while they were sparring whenever a big boy came around it was another story.  It is nice when they are where I can stop the truck and just watch, the pictures are just a bonus.

**************

My Favorite Friend on My Walks.

 A really nice buck.

I see this guy along with a couple of others regularly on my walks.  Though I cannot find an older shot than this he had his full rack early, but a little sparing broke a section of his main beam.  He is always curious when I stop and take his picture but with the long lens I am no big threat.  Hope he would be kind enough to shed in the back yard.  Great rack.

*************The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

***************

And speaking of wading for trout this is your chance.  There were tons of chatter when TWPD went back to the previous speckled trout rules and they heard you and are now taking public comment on a new proposal.  To reduce the limit to 3 fish, reducing the length to 15-20″ with one over 25″.  As I am a short timer it is up to you to make your voice heard.  There are multiple times and ways to get it done so speak now or don’t bitch.  I personally like it but after catching tons of fish over the last 60 years I am happy with quality over quantity.

News Release: Dec. 15, 2023: TPWD Seeks Input on Proposed Changes to Spotted Seatrout Bag, Size Limits – TPWD (texas.gov)

****************

Big Ass Rattlesnake

The Boss sent me this from a friend of hers.

From a pasture in Victoria Texas.  That is one big diamondback.  

**************

My computer is malfunctioning so thought I better post this as it will next week before I can deal with it. So have a great holiday no matter what you do. So keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

FISH CATCHING TRAVEL

Knockin Tail Lures by My Coast Outdoors

WINTER

The weather seems to have settled into the pattern that makes this area what it is.  Cold at night but often sunny and warm during the day.  Today was a perfect example as it was 16 this morning and as I write this stuff is melting and should hit 40+.  And the results of finally getting good snow on Wolf Creek and in the woods is the arrival of the skiers and snowmobilers.

I never get tired of seeing nice mule deer bucks.  See them everyday on my walk.

While the all-out rut is over, some of the bucks just cannot resist.  They tear through the backyard chasing but it seems the ladies have had enough.  But every day is an adventure and I cannot get enough of all the stuff.

This is the area out my kitchen window where the former owners fed them.  I don’t but there are lots of folks doing it so no shortage of wildlife.

And plenty of small ones working hard for their dinner.

*************

Death of an Icon

During the blizzard the other night Two Rivers Tavern started on fire right after it closed for the evening.  The second oldest building in South Fork, at one time the post office and then a grocery store it has been around for decades.  The restaurant was doing well and the folks running it were hopeful things were going to keep going.  Then this……….

Thanks to South Fork Fire Rescue for this picture.

Of all things the 3 folks who run it, who I know and like, went right down the street to the Gaslamp Tavern which is the locals Happy Hour Place when the call came in.  It is a real shame for South Fork and them.  One less place to eat and socialize, it has been there forever.  I ate and stayed next door several times and am sad to see it go.  Thankfully no one was hurt and they are able to rescue the dog, all in a blizzard.

On a side note, visitors and those of us who live here are really fortunate to have the high level fire and rescue guys in this small town.  Not only residential, they are extremely proficient in forest fires, local and nationwide, and assorted rescue operations of all shapes and sizes that come with dealing with folks in the high mountains.  Comforting to know they are right down the street.  The Boss and I during our paramedic time always loved the fire guys and really appreciate what they do.  Funny but when we were the “help” often it was the fire guys who were our “help”.

*************The Wade Right Fishing Belt and the new Madre Sling.

For all your wading needs.

***************

The other night had a friend from down the street say did you see the bobcat in your backyard?  NO!  He had just left his parents house and saw the cat walking between the houses and he stopped and watched as she eased along the trail right behind the house.  Then her kitten came jumping along behind in the deep snow.  Like I have said in the past every time I get up and move I look out the front and the back.  I keep 2 cameras and binocs ready but dang they slipped by me.  It is great to live in a zoo without fences.

***************

And speaking of a zoo without fences here is the ultimate zoo without fences.  While not totally to blame for our love of animals in the outdoors I did want to give a shout out to our wildlife guru.  Our 4 day adventure in Yellowstone with her was nothing short of spectacular.

Taylor Rabe in the backcountry of Yellowstone on a month-long wolf study.  What a view.

We met her on our Wolf Tracker trip to Yellowstone where at the time she was a guide.  That trip, even in her world, was labeled a smashing success and we were so lucky with what we got to experience.  She has since moved on and is now one of the leading wolf experts in the country.  This month she spent glassing up to 11 hours a day with a study group in Yellowstone and some of her video of the wolves is stunning.  She is well traveled and her love and dedication to wild animals is infectious, it is my pleasure to have spent time with her in the outdoors.

I wanted to let you know a little bit about her as she will be in Aspen in January giving a speech on the Yellowstone wolves.  As the introduction of wolves in Colorado looms, unless halted with some kind of last-ditch effort to stop it, it is a hot topic in Colorado.  Taylor is engaging and knowledgeable about wolves and it will be an interesting evening.  Unfortunately, I will be in Texas but no matter where you stand on the re-introduction of wolves you should attend.  I promise you will learn a ton, she knows her stuff.

Naturalist Nights in Aspen: Yellowstone Wolves: A Quarter Century of Research and Observations | Facebook

*************

Iowa Whitetail

A big corn-fed Iowa whitetail.

My buddy Clyde and my brother took their annual trip to Iowa to hunt those corn-fed bucks.  Clyde put this guy on the ground and if you notice he is missing a few tines from fighting during the rut.  And don’t let anyone tell you these bucks are not good to eat.  Nonsense it is some of the best meat on the planet.  They live on the “feedlot” of soybeans and corn that is Iowa.  Congrats on the nice buck.

*************

Less than 2 weeks before I head to Arkansas and then back to Texas.  It should be a good time in Arkansas as we celebrate my mom’s 90th birthday.  Always good to see some folks you haven’t seen in a while.  Then off to Texas to catch some fish.  Really considering selling the Mako on my next trip home and getting serious about finding a boat for these waters.  Smaller and light for easy towing in both the mountains and the inevitable gravel roads that lead to our local lakes.  Then back here for ice fishing so keep stopping in and thanks for reading my stuff.

Good Luck and Tight Lines