Why Water Skiing and Fishing Dont Mix

With the fourth of July weekend freshly behind us, I am reminded of one of the darker moments in a long and illustrious series of dark fishing moments....

Once upon a time, there was this young energetic outdoors type fella, who burned the recreational envelope to the bitter end. It was not uncommon for this naive- yet spunky- young man to participate in multiple outdoor activities on any given day.

Fishing in the morning would yield itself to mountain biking, or hiking, or berry picking and then followed by the evening fishing du jour. A little grub, a little quenching of the thirst, perhaps a spirited game of cribbage, a short nap and soon it was time again to repeat the previous days repetoire.

Those days are all but a memory now, and yet somehow- like fine wine- the memories ferment and settle, leaving a wonderful vintage of pleasant happenings. However, as afore mentioned, there are some rather embarrassing and somewhat painful times when in his zeal and zest for the outdoor experience, good judgement was cast aside or completely forgotten.

One such instance came upon a nice summer's day--twas the fourth day of the grand month of July--as I recall, when all sense and wits left his self. A.J.--as we will call our lad-- was invited to a morning's fish on a large and water filled reservoir in the region of Southern Oregon. The ships steward and captain had mentioned that it would be nice to cast about for trout in the morn and then take to the waters of the reservoir for a "skimming upon the surface with wooden planks", of which most refer to- as water skiing.

After a bountiful morning of much catch and frolic,the three jolly pranksters cajoled loudly about the fine and handsome trout which hung from yon stringer. Many a citizen would bow humbly before them and think of them certainly as masters of ther craft.

Fishermen indeed!!

Now, after a few celebratory quaffs of spirit, the lads were anxious to take to the ever inviting waters of the reservoir, "To the skis, men" harkened the ships captain.

Soon, wooden planks were tossed to the sea, and one at a time the lads took to the water. Skimming and jumping and showing the versatiles of youth--the lads frolicked immensely. Thumbs were thrust skyward as the fishing boat, now turned ski boat, gained more power and speed.

Oh what a time it was, the time of our youth--resplendid youth.

Alas, the joy was broken suddenly--when young foolish A.J., queried as to the whereabouts of the days catch.

Were they stored safely in the captains cool locker? Had they been stowed away in a water filled live well?

Puzzled looks and questioning glares hung over the lads like an Irish fog, it was clear that the bouyant mood had been broken. Accusations flew, and responsibilities were shirked. Swords were ready to be drawn.... had there been any swords.

AND, a good thing there were no swords, for after inspecting the stringer, the very same stringer which had once held the hopes and prayers of a hungry fish camp of merry men and women- it was found that the stringer was now void of fish!!

Nothing but a few gill plates remained.

Much remorse was felt amongst the lads, and a futile but heartfelt retracing of the boats whereabouts was undertaken. To no avail.

The fine and handsome trout had either sunk to the depths of the unforgiving waters of the reservoir, had wound up prey to the many a swift fish hawk that hunted these waters, or were back swimming happily beneath the surface...sans a full gill plate.

A dour feeling hung over the crew, and great shame stood in the place where pride once brimmed so brightly. Candor, and speculation ensued.

Had the fish kept up for a while, hanging on with every bit of there very facial fiber as they slapped across the surface, like little water skiers themselves?

Did they vanish and scatter to the wind upon the first thrust of the boats great motor?

It matters not. For they were gone, GONE, GONE!!

Should there be a need for a moral to this tragic and wasteful tale, let it be known: that if you plan to water ski and fish on the same day, in the same boat --be sure to place your fish IN the boat before transitioning to your next recreational pursuit.

Maybe just maybe if you heed these words, you can avoid the pitfalls of youth like these lads were so unmercifully forced to endure.

A tragic tale indeed...

A.J. Klott
Author, writer of fishing humor,and "fly tack" peddler.A.J. writes about the people,characters and modern day events that surround the fishing world. His first book is due out in December of 2005.

If you need a laugh or a fun gift, visit his website at: http://www.twoguyswithflys.com

---

Cutthroat Trout and Cutthroat Trout Fishing

Experienced fishermen know all about the cutthroat trout. That is because it is a huge gaming fish and it is difficult to catch. Why, then do so many fisherman go cutthroat trout fishing?... Read More

Online Fishing Forums Change the Way Anglers Fish For Information and Photos

As the landscape of the World Wide Web changes at lightning speed, so do many online trends. Communication and the exchange of information have become instantaneous and the rate at which we can... Read More

Lucky Hat

Do you have a lucky hat?It was a beautiful warm day in the mid 70's. Typical of what we get in Colorado during September. I started out by checking the stream flows on... Read More

Fishing Charter Need To Know

There are several elements that go into creating the ideal charter fishing experience. The most important of these elements are not within the control of the charter service, captain, or the customers:THE WEATHER:... Read More

How Do You Bring The Freshest Fish to The Table?

Fish is one of earth's natural wonders and has satisfied our palates since the beginning of man. Their flesh is light and delicate, lean and is packed with protein, the anti-oxidant vitamin E... Read More

Find and Catch Those Pesky Fish with a Garmin 240 Fish Finder

Garmin 240 Fish Finder Depthfinder with Transducer - a reviewThe lakes that I normally fish are deep and quite rocky, and I have been delighted with the performance of the Garmin 240 Fish... Read More

Why Water Skiing and Fishing Dont Mix

With the fourth of July weekend freshly behind us, I am reminded of one of the darker moments in a long and illustrious series of dark fishing moments....Once upon a time, there was... Read More

Ice Fishing in the Wisconsin Winter

It's late December... temperatures are racing towards 0 degrees. Ice is covering most of the lakes in Wisconsin and getting thick on the lakes in the Northern half of the state.This is the... Read More

Cincinnati Catfishing Bait

Some of the baits I have used for used for CATFISHing here on the Ohio River are, chicken liver, minnows, shrimp, Spam, French Fries and more.Fresh chicken liver works better than frozen liver... Read More

Fishing the Points

Sometimes bass fishing in a big lake can be overwhelming. Do you fish deep? Fish the banks? Are they out in open water? What? This will depend on the lake, the time... Read More

North to Alaska

For many fishermen Alaska is the ultimate "mecca" of fishing. Early childhood dreams of Salmon choked rivers and Bears of every shape and size basking in the sun, their bellys full of fish-... Read More

Breeding Crayfish

In the text below I shall try to give a short overview of some of the basics when breeding crayfish. Particular species may have other behaviours and demands. It should be said that... Read More

Trout Species ? Brook Trout

Brook Trout: Frequently gullible, yet extremely tasty, Brook Trout are wonderful trout to fish for - especially since they frequently inhabit the most beautiful stream settings in the U.S.The Brook Trout was originally... Read More

Caring for Your Inflatable Boat - Common Sense & Consistency Are the Keys

Thousands of years ago, the first inflatable boats, made from animal skins, were used for transportation. People used them to cross rivers, ferry goods to other locations, and move military troops. Over time,... Read More

Marine News Fall 2004 - Endangered and Threatened in Florida

Our oceans are home to many marine mammals, fish, turtles, corals and others. The delicate balance between man and the ocean is constantly being challenged by the demands of our society. Most of... Read More

Catch More Fish - The American Way

These are busy times we live in.Running a full time business, having a five and a half year old daughter, and becoming the world's most prominent "fish bloggering idiot"--has certainly cut into my... Read More

Teaching a Kid to Fish

Teaching a kid to fish does not have to be difficult, if you follow the right steps. There is an old Chinese proverb that states:"Give a man a fish and you feed him... Read More

Introducing The Two Guys With Flys

Just when you thought you had seen it all. Just when you thought what in the world can I get for a unique and different Christmas present,Fathers Day gift,or executive gift-- along comes... Read More

General Overview About Trout Senses

When fly fishing for trout, it is of crucial importance to understand their senses. Trout are fish, after all, and make different use of their senses than we do. Understanding these senses can... Read More

Fishing The Henrys Fork....Bobs Secret Hole...

Meanwhile back at the Yurt...Having been humbled by "Hank's" famous trout, it was time for a little change of scenery.My little girl, and kids in general, don't seem to understand catch and release.... Read More

Do Fish See in Color

Fish do indeed perceive color. Every fly fisher knows that or ought to know that. Like humans, the retina of a fish have rods and cones. Cones are used in the day and... Read More

Night Fishing Preparation, The Key To Success

Preparation is the Key To Successful Night Fishing, You Better Have These...Night fishing requires quite a bit more preparation than daytime fishing does. Even if you "think" you know the waters pretty well,... Read More

Dry Fly Techniques

Dry fly angling is at the top of any fly fisherman's list of fun fishing. The visual dry fly catch continues to excite many anglers as the best way to angle the fly.... Read More

Local Bass Fishing

If you are like me, you love to fish at the drop of a hat. While I do plan fishing trips, I also like to go on a whim.Sometimes the urge strikes out... Read More

Reviving Billfish

Last summer we had an unfortunate incident with a swordfish we brought to the boat.It was about 8:30pm and we had been set up for about 45minutes when we had our first bite,... Read More

Take a Kid Fishing

Take a kid fishing and they will learn to be successful in life. As an avid fisherman for over 30 years I have to look back on my life and consider it a... Read More

The Wet Fly Swing

The wet fly swing sounds like something one does at the square dance hall. Instead the wet fly swing is one of the oldest fly fishing techniques. It is used for all types... Read More

No Boat? Join Your Local Bass Club

Having been an avid basser for years, and not having the wherewithal to purchase a boat, I've often felt cheated and frustrated about not being able to get out to deeper waters (where... Read More

Do You Know How To Clean A Fish?

Now that you have caught your dream fish, do you know how to clean? Good job. You must be so proud of yourself. You have just landed the biggest fish of all. How... Read More