Spring Down By The Pond

You know spring has arrived when the orioles are whistling from the tree tops and the dogwoods are in bloom.  The sights, smells and sounds The signs of spring are there for all to see...catbirds are "mewing" from the under story and the red wing blackbirds are chattering incessantly from the reeds to the north of the pond . Rhododendron and other plants are in bloom. All signs help to erase the memories of a long and drawn out winter and point to more favorable times ahead. With warming temperatures, I look around and see that it must be time to stop by the pond and try my hand at some bluegills. This morning was the perfect time to do such a thing.  With just my Yamame and some size 10 Killer Bugs in hand I did just that.  The weather and morning could not have been better. The fishing was a little slow...but that didn't really matter. this morning was more about "living in the moment".  I was not targeting bass (the season for largemouths doesn't start on LI till the first Sat. in June) but that is exactly what I brought to hand.

Beside this guy, I did manage to land a few bluegill too.  Fishing was a little slower than I expected but it was fun all the same.  Every trip to the pond brings something new as the seasons progress. I am always amazed at how much life can be found in and around this particular pond.  I look forward to the days ahead and the memories that await to be made.

Alina's Kebari

It's nice when your kids take an interest in the things that you do. So a couple of weeks ago my youngest, Alina, asked if she could help me tie some flies. It reminded me of the time a few years back when Isabella asked me the same question. I gave Alina the same answer....that she was still just a bit too young to handle sharp hooks and scissors. However, I didn't want to dampen her enthusiasm so I asked her to help me design a fly. I laid out a selection of materials and told her to pick the ones she wanted on the fly. The fly pictured above was the result. I have to admit I really like the look of it and think it could do very well on the water. Of course it would not be Alina's without some pink in it. I'm happy to see Alina's interest in Daddy's hobbies growing. I think any connections you make with your children no matter how small can lead to a lifetime of wonderful memories. Alina has already asked about tying the next fly and I look forward making new memories.