It's raining today, and thanks to a cooperative client, I managed to align my mid-week day off with the weather. Sitting in the office on a rainy day is a first for this season, as it's been a pretty dry summer so far.
Since you asked, though, here is what’s new around here:
- Gear Updates: I have a new set of fishing pliers on my belt. I still don't understand why manufacturers don't sell replacement cutters for these. I thought I hit the jackpot a while back when I bought a "lifetime" pair from Orvis, but once the cutters go dull, the pliers lose most of their function. Now that I’m using fluorocarbon leaders for pike, I find myself needing a new pair every season or two.
- Tech Experiments: I picked up a "FishTechy" ball—you place it in a photo with a fish, and it estimates the length, species, and weight. It’s an interesting concept, but instant results require connectivity, which can be a challenge out where I work. I'm still playing around with it, but as a guide, my priority is keeping fish out of the water for as short a time as possible so they swim away healthy. Fumbling with technology doesn't fit into that equation. On the upside, it’s been reassuring to see how close my manual estimates are when clients ask, "What do you think that one weighs?" Picture shows an actual result. Pretty cool.
- Boat & Business Tweaks: The latest trolling motor is working out very well—though even after a year, I’m still occasionally hitting the wrong button on the wireless remote. Meanwhile, routing my office line straight to my cell phone has been a total game-changer; moving forward, one line is definitely all I need.
- Sun Protection: I’m trying out stick sunscreen this summer. As a long-time user of clear zinc oxide, I was disappointed to find that the simple, inexpensive cream I relied on for years has been discontinued. We’ll see how the stick goes.
- Tackle Box Additions: Beyond that, there isn't a whole lot else—just a few new lures scattered across my freshwater and saltwater boxes.
What Hasn't Changed
One thing that remains constant is how much I truly enjoy guiding. I feel incredibly fortunate to have made a career out of this and to enjoy good health as I get a bit greyer. Most days on the water are just too much fun to imagine stopping anytime soon!
If you haven't been out on the water with me yet this summer, I'm sorry to have missed you. I know that reducing my availability made it harder for some of you to lock in a date that fit your plans, but age has its privileges. Please know that we've had a fantastic season so far, and you were missed—well, just a little!
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