When some of us were in bed early last night, Brian took Rob and Jim out for “lunkers”. Well, they had quite a night – caught 16 big lake trout and actually landed 12 – all in 35-42” range and 35 pounds or more each. They were pretty pumped at breakfast.
Mark had predicted that everyone would slow down by day five and no one fished before 10:00 am today. I thought these guys would never get enough, but they are close to fishing saturation.
The only success for catching the really large lakers is by being with Brian. So, our tour coordinator (Mark) decides that we will split Brian into the two remaining afternoons and evenings – two in his boat each time. There are still nine who have not yet gone with Brian – someone (me?) will draw a short straw. That little issue will be Mark’s to solve tomorrow – the last day.
Amazingly, everyone comes in for lunch and Sharon does a wonderful wienie roast. This writer opts not to fish in the afternoon as my morning boat mate fishes with Brian for the afternoon. He and Eric “only” catch three lunkers. I luxuriously loaf, read, nap and sunbathe. I’m happy to learn that the fishing is very slow and I did not miss much.
There are two signs that this journal will end soon – guys (Rob) are starting to ask what I’m writing about them and my bottle of Jameson (“journal fuel”) is nearly gone.
Tonight Bob and Brent go out with Brian. Sadly, the wind comes up, the temperature drops and it’s too rough to fish. We go to the hot tub instead and it feels terrific.
Let me tell you about the “Veneer Guys” - six including Mark. It’s cool how well they get along and enjoy each other’s company. I think it’s unusual for co-workers and nice to see. The ball busting is 24/7. They usually sit together at the dining table. Here they are:
Jim – The party guy and most die-hard fisherman. Always laughing, likes a beer or two but definitely the father figure. He wears well. Also, catches lots of fish!
Rob – Very even temper, always good natured and friendly. He could be a truly nice guy if he wasn’t a Penn State fan. My guess is at Allegheny Veneer he cracks the whip and keeps them organized and (mostly) out of trouble. Likes to fish too.
Brent – The most agreeable out of an agreeable group. Very friendly, talks to everyone and easily fits in. Ready to go back on the lake 24/7. Likes to fish too.
Teddy – Strong silent type but also quite friendly. Never without a smile. Always bright sunburn and happy. Probably does all the work in West Virginia. Likes to fish too.
Kenton – Fascinating guy to talk to. Deeply religious – no swearing, gambling, etc. You can get an earful from the others, but not around Ken. From a huge family and lives in Pottsdam, New York. Fun to spend time with. Loves sports and loves to fish too.
Enough for tonight – tomorrow (or Monday) the rest of the bunch!
Whoops – almost forgot one very important detail (David would never forgive). Mark’s younger son, David, caught a world record whitefish for the 14-year-old category. This is technical stuff but basically on light tackle the record was 2 pounds, 3 ounces. His fish is 3 pounds, 8 ounces and 22” long. He is so excited that he badgers Brian about how to make sure he is properly entered into the record book. Pictures are taken and all details chronicled. Hopefully, his record certification will be on the lodge wall next year. Dude, he is really stoked!!!!!
Brent and his best catch
Kenton's turn
Nice Pike Rob
Eric, Mark and Ed in front of our cabin
The Veneer Gold Guys table
Eric and a sudden 2 inch hailstorm
Brian traps wolverines & cougars in the off season (for sale @ $1650.00 each)
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