THE ICE HAS MELTED

Southern Indiana was recently hit by a severe ice storm that ripped across the central United States leaving our area in ruins. Many houses and building have severe damage and thousands of trees are down. Tens of thousands were left without power or water. Sub zero temperatures have frozen just about every lake around. Just to give an idea about how bad is was here is a photo of our backyard...



There is good news beyond the mess! Warmer temperatures have arrived and the ice is melting quickly. My lake in the yard has thawed and I can't wait to get out there and get my line wet. On Groundhog Day, unfortunately Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow and predicts another 6 weeks of winter. I, myself, am ready for spring! Since the lakes are thawing I will soon be back in action, bringing you the best of "For the Love of Fishing". Till then...

Ready for Spring

As I sit and look outside, I feel like I have lost something inside.

It's dark, gloomy, cold and icey out. The lake in the backyard is no longer frozen and I can't help to think...why not just go out there and get the ole line wet.

The boat is stored, the poles are dry. My mind wanders as I think about the super fall season just passed. Friends, nature and the thrill of hooking up a largemouth bass silenced by the dreary wintery weather.

When temperatures rise even above 50 degrees, I'm anxious to grab my poles and head out to find the "one that got away" in the fall. As winter bass gather and group into large schools, the lure of catching the big one remains deep in my mind. I know they are there, I know they will bite this time of year. My frozen fingers would only halt the day short. As December 21st comes closer and closer, I realize the days will get longer and the nights will get shorter.

Ahh, yet the days of spring will soon be upon us! Personally, I can't wait!

For the Love of Fishing

The mist clears, the sun begins to rise. You can't help yourself but to take a few mintues to do nothing but feel the warmth and glow. It's calm, no breeze the water is like glass. Right now you would rather be no where else in the world but right here.



You're relaxed, at peace. Nothing could be more perfect. Nature hugs you with her energy completely taking your mind to a place that softens the heart. You came to fish, sure, but at the moment it really doesn't matter.



The morning dew is evaporating, the sun warms the shallows, it's time. You tie on your favorite lure. Where would I be if I were a fish? Ah, those rocks, yes! He's there. You know it, you feel it. Your line leaves your reel like silk. Silent drop, nearly a ripple. You wait...



Fish On! Your heart pounds, your mind is focused. You feel alive! You pull, he pulls back. Your drag starts to scream. You get him to the boat. As soon as you think the fight is over, he jumps completely out of the water. You continue the battle until you finally get him in a landing position. You lip him. Pride rising within you. Now, time for the Photo Opportunity! You release him back to his world to grow and become even stronger. You both may meet again.

This is why you fish. This is what you love!

Lord knows, I love it too! Welcome to my blog.



I would like to take this opporunity to thank E. Clark
for the first 2 photos and www.flheritage.com for the wonderful header photo.