Living The Dream

Family Visit

2009-11-04T20:48:00.001-08:00

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Greyson Miller

2009-10-06T22:34:00.001-07:00

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Pictures from Michael

2009-10-06T22:16:00.001-07:00

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Pictures from Michael

2009-07-01T22:01:00.001-07:00

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2008-07-28T17:26:00.000-07:00

Photo #1: Spike and the Good Luck Monkey with a very nice Silver from the Togiak

Photo #2: Smitty and a "little bitty" Silver taken from the "BBL hole" on the Togiak

Photo #3: Smitty "The Guide" at the scene of a Beaver crash on the Togiak. All 7 people an board walked away safely!

Photo #4: Smitty and Spike (fat spike) with a TRFA guide in front of our take home Silvers!

Right at this minute I am sitting in the Boulevard Laundry, washing my clothes and surfing the net. My life, baby. It is very exciting, eh?

I have been sitting here thinking about fishing in Alaska. Right now is one of the slower times to fish in the wood river area of Bristol Bay. Most of the Kings are dead and the sockeye and chums are on their last legs although, there may be some fresh ones still around. Pinks will be plentiful if it is a pink year. I have forgotten if it is or not. Maybe Missy will email me and let me know. The Rainbow and Grayling and char fishing will be getting ready to pop on the river as the sockeye and chum drop their eggs. Then the egg slam will be on and yahoo! Rainbow city!!!

Some dry fly action will still be happening. But soon the fish will pretty much ignore evrything except eggs. the grayling however will still go after Dries when the sun shines on the water!

Damn, I wish I was on the water on the "Pak" or the "Wok" Middle of August the Silvers will be running in full force. This is my personal favorite time of the year. The bugs start to die off. It's cooler weather or "fat mans weather" The acrobatic Coho's or Silvers will fill the Togiak, Birch Creek and Rainbow. Shoot, gotta stop thinking about it and fold my shit!!!!!!!

Always,

Mike

2008-07-25T20:18:00.000-07:00

The above photo is of Bristol Bay Lodges Fine Pilot, Dan Claus and my Mother, Ronna sitting shotgun as co-pilot recently in Alaska.

You know , I have had a pretty good time sitting here in the breakfast nook of the Expressway Inn here in Bismarck, ND. Writing these stories about my dad, Roger.

There are so many, I have really just scratched the surface. I have so many more to tell, and someday I probably will. I have really been posting these blogs after my days work. Mostly around 1 to 2 am in the morning. Then going back to my own hotel room at the Rivertree Inn. The Rivertree inn is a decent place. Mostly a flop house for workers staying semi-long term here in Bismarck. Just like me. I should mention that The breakfast nook overlooks the pool area and I have been fortunate these past few nights with the views afforded me from my little table. ;>)

I do miss my friends and family back at home. I have been working alot, 6 days a week. so I have not had a lot of time to scout around for hunting spots. I do however have my first Sunday off since coming to Bismarck this weekend so...............

Anyways, Thanks for visiting my little blog. I hope I did not bore you. If I did sorry.

More to come stay tuned. Mark this as a fovorite and of course you can request other stories on other subjects if you wish. Until next time,

Always,

Spike

2008-07-24T19:30:00.000-07:00

Hey gang,

I'm tired tonight. It's been a long day and night. I'm hungry as well so I will make this one short.

SWEET CORN, BRANDY AND THE BOAT!

Roger had just purchased a used fiberglass speed boat, red and white, with a 60 horse Evinrude engine. He had just enough time off to head up to Bowen Lake near Pine River to try it out and go fishing for a day or two. What he needed was a traveling companion. He called my Grandfather Ike, down in Butterfield. Grandpa Ike,Never one to turn down a trip up to Bowen. Agreed! As Grandpa drove up to Stewart, Roger hooked up the boat and drove out to the local sweet corn field that was getting harvested by dads pals from Green Giant. After some bullshitting and arm twisting Roger had the guys dump a load of sweet corn into the new speedboat.

Grandpa made the trip up to Stewart and off the traveling sweetcorn salesmen / fishermen went! They would stop about every major cross road and put up a sign, FRESH SWEET CORN $1.50 A DOZEN!

They made their way up to Brainerd finally. Pockets bulging with money! They set up again and sold more corn! Nisswa, CORN! Jenkins, CORN! Pequot Lakes, CORN! Pine River, CORN! They set up shop in the liquor store in Pine River. (A natural place to sell corn for the pair) Tired of stuffing corn into bags the gang just adjusted the sign, SWEETCORN $1.00 A DOZEN! PAY IN BAR!

As the word got out about town, more and more people were coming up to the bar and getting corn! It was a hot seller in Pine River. The only problem was that even with the sale of corn being great, they still had a ton of corn left in the boat!! Some quick thinking had to ensue or there would be no room for them to fish in the boat the next day.

Roger came up with a plan. He drove the boat down to the local Red Owl grocery store. Found the owner/manager and offered the remaining corn to the store at $1.00 a dozen. The owner counter offered .50 an dozen. Roger told him that this was no ordinary sweetcorn but the primest stuff in the state. Picked that very day from the fertile fields of McCloud County. The Giants Finest Corn!! They settled at .70 a dozen and 2 stock boys to empty the corn from the boat!

Roger later said that he would have given the owner the corn if he would have known that the stock boys would have unloaded it for them!

After the corn was gone people were still showing up for more at the bar! An earlier customer was a little bummed out that the corn was gone, so dad bought him a drink and they began talking about fishing and the local lakes and where to catch'em (In the upper lip!) Finally the guy asked dad about the boat. What did he want for it? Dad said that he had just bought it and hadn't even fished out of it yet and did not really want to sell it. The guy told him that the resort that they were staying at had reserved them a very small boat and they were disappointed in it and liked the sweetcorn hauler much better. He told dad that they had been fishing on whitefish lake and the fishing for northern pike had been slow and their boat was not the kind of craft they could easily use to run around the big lake with. As the night wore on dad and grandpa, by now feeling very little pain, invited the guy and his wife to Bowen lake and that they would take them out fishing for pike. The guy staggered out of the bar and off to meet his wife at their cabin.

The next day our hero's/corn salesmen were still in bed nursing a couple of serious hangovers when there came a knock at the cabin door. It was the corn guy and his wife. They had come to fish and look at the boat. Now, it was after noon, and while Roger did enjoy to fish he was not in the greatest shape to do so. Neither was Ike, The Boat was still on the trailer! Well, out they went, dropped the boat in the lake. Roger tossed Ike the key and Grandpa Ike started it up. The couple got in with their gear and grandpa Ike rigged them up with probably a red eye wiggler and an old red and white spoon and off they went. Trolling as always clockwise around the lake.

Now, I myself have fished Bowen lake many, many times. In fact, I fished it at least 1 week a year from the time I was a couple of months old until I turned 28 years old and quite a few times since then. If there is one thing I know; is that you rarely have problems catching Northern Pike in Bowen Lake. They may not all be lunker's but the numbers are good.

Ike took the couple out for a round around the lake, The fishing was very good. Roger stayed in the cabin sleeping. After a couple of hours of fishing the lucky anglers had their limit of Pike! Including one nearly 10 lbs! They also had a bunch of crappies. They woke Roger up to look at the fish, Ike went up to the fish cleaning shack to clean the days catch and the couple started in on Roger about the boat. They asked dad how much he wanted for it. How much he paid for it. Would he PLEASE sell them the boat! Dad said finally that the boat was theirs for $600, But he was not so happy about selling it because here he was on Bowen lake and hadn't even fished yet. The couple was going to try to talk him down, but I think that after a night of drinking and carrying on in town roger was in no mood to haggle. I would bet that they could feel the "vibe"! $600 it was. They hooked up the boat. Got their fish from Grandpa Ike and off they went. Right up to Mr. Anderson the resort owner to book 2 weeks for the next year!

Our hero's looked at each other. Now they had no food as they had sold ALL of their corn, and no boat with which to go fishing for food. So they packed up and headed back to Pine River for happy hour to celebrate before heading back home to a very surprised Ronna and Grandma Bea!

Everyone was happy however when the money was tallied up from the boat sale and all of the sweetcorn they had sold.

Roger had owned a speed boat for 3 days and had never even sat in it, before he sold it.

Years later he he would tell me, "Every thing I own is for sale for the right price" Dad, loved to sell, It was his "Sport" Like golf, or baseball, it was a game to win or lose.

He was a pro at it.

Always,

Mike

2008-07-23T16:06:00.000-07:00

STORY #6

FUCKING OLD COOT!

Last hunting season, was right around he corner. I went down to Big Al's and retrieved the Water Bitch. Painted the Herter's Mallard Decoys. Oiled up the guns, packed the hunting clothes packed the boots and prepared the truck for the annual trip to Cando, North Dakota. This season dad had asked the gang if it was alright to bring a new friend of his along. Dad had met Mike at Walmart in Buffalo or Monticello, I forget which. We said sure, because a new guy is always fun. They try so hard and are easy to make fun of!

As the trip drew near, Roger was not feeling all that well and needed to go to the St. Cloud VA hospital to get his meds checked. I ran to The Tractor Supply store to talk to the manager about the company.

As I left The store, my cell rang and with a very bad connection, I could make out dads voice. But very little else. I heard, Hospital, St. Cloud, ambulance. call mom. talk to Mike. Can't go this trip and then the phone went dead. I tried to call back and could not get through. I called mom and asked her if she had heard from dad, she had not. I told her what I had heard. I raced home and picked up mom and we headed to the St. Cloud VA. On our way there, dad called and let us know that they had transferred him to the St. Cloud Hospital. Upon arrival we found his room and he was waiting for a blood transfusion. He told me to get the rest of the gear ready and for me to pick up Mike and head to Cando. When he was done with his treatment he would head over with the van. I doctor looked at me and shook his head.

Mom and I spent the night at the hospital at least for a while. The next day, knowing that, I had been trained well by Roger to "Do as I say, Not as I do" We all headed to North Dakota, The group was a little down in the mouth at our meeting spot. (The Fargo Hooters) NOTE- This is where Smitty told us all that he had a GIRLFRIEND!! Talk about Shock and Awe! We made it to Jeff Solseth's home in Cando, and set up shop. We prepared our gear for the next day. We field hunted at the farm and just smacked the heck out of the Mallards. It was a blast. I figured that dad would show up any moment. After the hunt I drove until I could get a cell signal. Called dad's cell phone to see where he was. This is when he told me the bad news. He would not be able to join the group on the hunt as the doctors told him that he had Mylo Dysplastic Syndrome or Smoldering Leukemia. I just sat on a gravel road and cried. I could not believe it. The man who had cheated death so many times before, 3 bypass surgeries, numerous car crashes and tons of bar fights. Now this. Well, he would of course beat this. Just as he had the others. I told him to just get stronger and listen to the docs. We still had the second trip to go on in October. He said yeah, He could do that. I went back to the guys at the camp and told them the news.

We had a good hunt. Little Mike had a blast and I had a blast hunting with him and the gang of course. But we all were a bit sad that the "Fucking Old Coot" or "FOC "for short was not there to shoot his usual 10 boxes of shells!

Dad was pretty much in and out of the hospital for the next few weeks. Doctor Al, the well known cancer doc, in St. Cloud took dad's case and ran him through numerous tests and had him trying every drug in the books, including some new stuff, just on the market. He was getting transfusion about every 3-4 days and mom and I and the girls were reading everything we could about the disease. We could all see the toll that it was taking on him. At home we would laugh and joke and tell stories and ask him stuff about growing up with Bev and Ordell, and how he met mom and where we all lived. His favorite cars, favorite vacations. Things that kept our minds off of the situation at hand. Michelle and Missy flew in from both coasts, we had not spent this much time together as a family in a long time.

As the second Duck hunting trip approached, dad was adamant that he was going. The doctors were adamant that he wasn't. It was a battle of wills. I wanted dad to come, he wanted to come. I knew that he would not be swayed. As the day of departure arrived. He told me that he had to go and get a transfusion so he could be strong enough to make the trip. I finally told him that it would be ok, if he wanted to stay at home and rest, sitting this one out. Talk about a hissy fit! There was no question that he was making the trip. Hours later he called me from the hospital and told me to take off as he was being delayed at the hospital and could not make it right away. He would drive the van over to North Dakota when he was through with the transfusions.

I wish I would have stayed and waited for him. But, I still wasn't sure if the Doc's would actually let him go.

We hit Hooters, continued on to Cando and prepared our gear, for the next days hunt. I drove out of town and called out to Paul Nistler and Wayne "DK" Schmeling who were also arriving late. I then called to see about Roger,s whereabouts. Back at the hospital dad had called mom and had her pack his clothes, gas up the van and bring it over to him at St, Cloud so he would not have to drive back home and could leave straight from the hospital. Jeez! When I called him he was just about in Devils Lake. Only about 30 miles away. I went back and informed the gang! Drove out to the outskirts of town and waited for his arrival.

Not long after here he comes cruising up and getting out and getting a big hug from me! We went to the house and all were waiting for the "FOC"!

Early the next morning. The alarm went off and I started stirring, getting ready, and such. I went over and shook dad and told him it was "daylight in the swamp!" He did not move. I said "come on dad, get your ass up." No Movement! I shook him again, and said "come on dad, no foolin' around." Now, Smitty was sitting up and looking to see what was going on. I felt dad's neck for a pulse. He was warm and it looked like he was breathing...... Still no movement. Finally he moved his fingers, and said, "I'm up. I'm UP! I helped him get dressed and get his waders on and we jumped in the truck and headed off to Island Lake. We had a great day! The birds were flying as usual, we were all shooting and carrying on. Making wise ass remarks to each other. I did notice that dad was not shooting as much as usual and was a bit quieter than in the past. But that was to be expected. We all cleaned birds and hit the sack, tired but happy. The gang was back together again, just like the good ole days.

The next morning Roger was very tired and told us that he was going to sleep in. It was the first time he had ever done this. We were all a little surprised when about 2 hours into the hunt I saw the van pull up to the access and flash his lights for me to come pick him up. We all had a great day of hunting and topped it off with Big Smitty shooting his first Swan!

The Schoepke's and Wayne and Paul left to head back to work, leaving Tom, Corey and Dad and I, to hunt the last day. We decided to try Long Lake, as it would provide soft sand beaches and comfortable hunting for us all, but especially for Roger. It was quite warm for being the final days of October, the sun and the sand, made for a lazy day of hunting and a bit slower than usual. We all shot ducks and we all missed a few. Roger fell asleep and fell off of his chair which we all laughed at. We were all dozing off from time to time.

We finally packed up and headed toward the access. Loaded up the boat and cleaned the birds. Roger was very quiet during all of this so I asked him finally just what was up! He told me that he had to take a #3 (a number 3 is when you have to go #1 and #2 but in a real big hurry(#3)!)

I helped him out of his boots, and out of his Camo Coveralls and helped him put his shoes on. All so he could faster get into the Corrigador Bar and Grill just up the road and use their bathroom. We shot out of the access like a bullet! Straight to the bar. Upon reaching the parking lot, dad told me he was fine and that he could make it until we were back in Cando. I told him that it was a 30 mile drive. He assured me he could make it. I took off slinging gravel in the air into the night sky.

We made it back to Cando and Roger fairly ran into the house. Corey and I and Smitty started to pack up the gear so we could take off early in the morning. Just as we were about done with or packing. Roger came out of the house and asked me where I had put his false teeth?!!! I told him that I did not do anything with his teeth! Well, right there we started to unpack the van, looking for his teeth! We looked under the seats, in the gunning boxes, in the gun cases, in the coveralls, in his waders, in his shirt pockets. In the decoy bags! Everywhere!! No False teeth anywhere. Of course it was all my fault, I had forgotten his teeth somewhere after putting them somewhere for safe keeping!!!! After pulling basically everything out of the van looking for the lost teeth, we came to the realization that they had to be back out at the lake some 30 miles or so down the road! I said that I would go and see if I could find them. He wanted to come along. We unhitched the Water Bitch and off we went back down the road, dodging deer after deer! Chatting away, mostly me listening as to how it was my fault that we were driving back in the first place. If I had only kept track of his teeth like a good son would!!! I told him that if my father would keep his damn teeth in his mouth we would all be sleeping right now!!! As we approached the Long Lake road approach, I was thinking, just what are the odds that his teeth were in fact there? If they were there, did I run over them on my way out of the access? Did Tom and Corey run over them on their way out of the access. Did the farmer come out of his driveway and run them over. Were the damn teeth even there in the first place?

I hit the brights and crept up the gravel road, my eyes scanning both right and left looking for a glimpse of the pearly whites. There they were!!! Right in the middle of the road! Just waiting for their owner! I'll be damned! Dad got out of the van and said, "See you prick, right where I said they would be!!!" "That will teach you for being in such a hurry!"

We stopped off at the Corrigador and had a beer to celebrate! (and to wash off the teeth!) Toasted a good trip and headed for home.

There was only one thing to say in summing up this night. "Fucking Old Coot!"

Little did any of us know that this would be the last hunting trip for "The King" Less than a month and a half later, dad would pass away at the St. Cloud Hospital.

On the way back to South Haven, I had to stop at the Tractor Supply Store in Jamestown ND for my 2nd Interview. This one with Randy Rebel, District #811's DM. As I was filling out paper work Dad came in and introduced himself to Randy. Randy took dad through the store on a tour. Dad was in his glory! He so loved to sell things, and the merchandise that TSC carries was right up his alley! I think about it everyday. If he were still alive, He would be impossible to get out of the store. I really think that this is my dads real dream job.

The last time we talked in the hospital he told me how happy he was about me going back to work. I told him how happy I was that I had the whole summer off to hang out with him.

Sometimes God works in mysterious ways!

Spike

2008-07-22T12:00:00.000-07:00

Story #5

Minnesota March Madness

Growing up in Gaylord MN, was pretty much an idyllic setting for a kid. We lived on 4th st for a long time. I lived 1/2 block from the city park. 1 block from the Baseball field (Walsh Field) 1 & 1/2 block from the city pool. The same to lake Titloe and the Jaycee softball fields. Pretty much everyplace you could want to go was with-in walking distance in 5 minutes. The school was also just a block away. Our block was filled with kids. The Uecker's next door, The Weirs 2 doors down the Grissom's a half a block away. The Mattfield's the same. Three blocks away were the Hoppe's. Dad was always pissed because the killer Frisbee tag games took place on our front yard and awesome whiffle ball tournaments took place in the backyard. With day long games of "war" took up the whole block! Our grass, if you could call it that was not the best looking in town. We were never inside. There was always something to do and someone to play with.

As with all small towns, the local High School sports were the biggest draw of interest. Football and Basketball were and are still king. When the Gaylord Hospital was still in operation as it was in my day. When babies were born the child was given a football, (Boy) and a note to the parents, to try harder for a boy next time, if it was a girl child! (slight exaggeration) Gaylord lived for it's sports teams. Girls sports were just in its infancy in my time. Today it is just as big as the boys teams. Now Gaylord and Arlington are paired into a school named Sibley East. First Gaylord and Winthrop paired for a one year experiment, which failed. I could have saved them the time and effort if I had been asked for my opinion. After all those years of us kicking their asses all over the fields and courts. It was like pairing the Christians and the Lions.

The spring Basketball state playoffs in Minnesota are known for many things, but a major snowstorm is usually the thing most talked about. For me, I will always remember it as dad and I, annual trip the the tournament in St. Paul. This usually meant that we would meet my uncle, Noel and cousins, Ace and Scott for a day or two down in the city to catch as many games as possible. It seems like we always new a team in the tournament. One year Butterfield even made it. They still talk about it in Butterfield, and it was over 30 years ago! Glencoe made it one year as well. I believe that Ace had graduated by then but I know Scott made it to the floor of the Civic center. Play well also. They were beaten by the Lake City team led by 7' center Randy Breuer. They almost won though! Gaylord made it a time or two as well. I so looked forward to trip, I waited in anticipation all freaking winter for it.

It must have bee my sophomore or Junior year, when this story takes place. My dad was the proud owner of a new 1976 Ford Bronco, full sized, two door, two toned Green and (I think) light green or cream color. The big day came to head off to the cities. Of course I got to skip school for 2 days to go to the big show, I was sent to town to get the Bronco washed. I just had to drive by school so all could see me in my glory, free as a bird and off to the tourney! I went down to the car wash and cleaned her up and raced off to the R & R to get dad. As I approached the Drive Inn driveway on Highway 5 & 19, I saw the oncoming traffic was heading my way but if I gave it some gas I could easily beat them and enter the driveway clear of traffic. What I did NOT take into consideration was the fact that the R & R's Parking lot was completely covered in Ice after a recent snow storm. Take the high rate of speed and the slick road conditions and this makes for a bad situation for the hometown hero! (ME) add that the R & R (as it usually was) was full of breakfast diners, and the parking lot was full, made this just a terrible event for all involved. I pumped the breaks, and I held the breaks, I pumped the breaks some more, I tried to turn. I tried pretty much everything I could think of. Then I braced for impact and held on. I slammed into the back end of a BIG, red and white Snap-On Tools truck. Knocked her about 5 feet to her right. I looked up, and rolling and tumbling out of the truck came MY DAD!!!!!!! and the Snap -On Tools guy!!!!!! who had been showing my dad some new stuff inside the truck!!!!!!!!!!!!!! OH NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

In my minds eye, I saw myself pummeled into a bloody mass and dropped off on the steps of the school and never allowed home again. Time stood still as the two stood erect and surveyed the damage. What could I do? I was to big to hide. To scared to move. My dad almost ripped the door off the Bronco to get to me. Only to ask me if I was, OK?

Don't get me wrong. I DID get an ass chewing of the highest order. One, that although brief, was intense and straight to the point. I was not damaged in anyway. Which was a shock to me, and I believe, to the 20 or so patrons of the R & R who were peering out of the windows at the show outside. A few had also ventured out onto the drive just to get a better look. Mom even came out just to keep an eye out on the situation.

In the end, I still was able to go to the State Tournament, Had a good time actually. I can still see dad standing up and giving the baskets good signal! (Right, Noel?) I could not tell you who won or lost. But those trips were always worth the long winters wait.

Even today, I like to go to the state tournament games, Feel the excitement of the fans. Watch the kids and their dads and remember back when..... I was just wondering why I never asked my dad to come with me these past few years, I figured that he was always to busy with something. I wish I would have. Sometimes, you don't get another chance.

The Bronco got fixed. I have a lot of memories of that Ford. First kiss, First ........... Never mind. I did get to scour off a tornado shaped powder burn off of the fiberglass top of it! But that just may be another story!!!

Bye for now.

Mike

2008-07-21T14:58:00.000-07:00

STORY #4

The Real "Deadliest Catch!"

They never talk about this aspect of ocean fishing on the now famous Discovery Channel series. This story is from a trip taken quite a few years ago, down to Florida. It centers around 4, no 5 characters. Roger, my long time pal, Tom Smith, My little sister, Michelle, Myself and an unknown fellow angler, with unfortunate timing, aboard a fishing boat, based out of Mayport, Florida.

During a vacation down to Florida to visit my folks, who were at the time living down in Bushnell, Florida. Smitty, Roger and I drove north to Jacksonville to see my sister Michelle. We hung out at The Landing, a Jacksonville hot spot, (Hooters) and saw all the sights that the city had to offer. We decided, as we often do, to try our hand at deep sea fishing. So we called around and found a fishing fleet in Mayport, right near the Naval Base, that offered full ,and half day "Party" boat fishing trips. We decided to give it a try, and set up reservations for the next day.

The next morning found our party of 4 (Michelle decided to come along) heading to the coast. We arrived at our destination and found the bait shop that played host to the fleet of vessels preparing for the day. We paid our fee, grabbed our cooler full of snacks and beer and pop and went straight to our chosen boat.

Once on the boat we met the captain and first mate, (Orlando) we became good friends with Orlando during the day as Smitty was snagged up on the bottom nearly constantly and required Orlando's help in getting unsnagged or retied! Now I wanted to mention at this time that it was about 6 am when we got on the boat so it was early, way to early for me but since I was going fishing, I guess it was ok.

It was a beautiful morning, not to hot, not to cold. In the harbor there was no wind, all was well. As we cruised out the inter coastal, towards the ocean, we went right past the USS Saratoga. The first Aircraft Carrier I had ever seen. Roger was in his glory, he talked about his navy days, and what he did aboard his ship, the USS Canberra, a cruiser. He talked about his friends and how they caught sharks with a winch, for fun and for food, aboard ship. It was actually pretty interesting, as he rarely talked about it to us kids, (Michelle and I) Once out to sea we headed east for a pretty long while. At least a couple of hours. Now the boat we were on was about 45' long I would guess. Maybe a little bigger, and held about 35 anglers on this day. I think that it cost about $30 for the days fishing. After awhile we stopped, dropped anchor and baited up. We dropped our baits down into the depths and waited for the fun to begin. Fishing was slow at first and we occasionally moved around from spot to spot, but finally we started to connect with some regularity. Michelle had the hot hand and was busy reeling in grouper, sea bass and red snapper. Smitty, I remember caught a small shark, and some weird looking fish with tentacle looking things hanging off it. We caught Puffer fish, which were pretty cool and some really ugly thing, that Orlando called a Scorpion. He would not even touch it, just cut the line and let it drop back into the water. You should have heard him yell at us NOT to bring it on deck! I even caught a Moray eel.

As we were fishing, the heat started to become an issue. It was Africa HOT! A breeze started to "Freshen" which was at first welcome, as it cooled us down a bit. It also pushed the smell of Hot Bait away from us which was really welcome. It was a very good time, the fishing was fair to good, and the cooler full of food and drink was slowly being emptied. The boat even had a galley where you could get some really good greasy burgers and fries, which Roger was drawn to like a bear to honey! After a 3 or 4 burgers Roger was quite content.

The wind continued to build. Notice that I said "wind" not breeze! The boat was starting to rock and while not really prone to seasickness, I will admit here that with the smell of hot, rotting squid and herring (bait) The stifling heat and the constant rocking of the waves. I was not really feeling all that great, but trooper I am I toughed it out. (Like there was anywhere I could go!) One by one a few of the hardy anglers were starting to hit the rail to relieve themselves of their stomach contents! By this time even I was barely hanging on. I even tried to take a nap in whatever shade I could find on deck.

With all of the rocking and the heat as well as all of the beer and food we ate and drank the night before, add on the 4 greasy burgers and fries that Roger had ate while on board, Roger finally had to hit the "Head" (Sailor term for shitter) Now, since he is gone, I can say without fear of reprisals that my dad, Roger was a champion "Head" user.

After awhile dad made his way back up on deck, beer in hand. We were all gathered up together fishing and talking at the rail when all of a sudden a fellow angler came rushing up the steps from below, hands to his mouth, panic in his eyes! Cheeks bulging, just as he reached the rail, WHOOSH! He blew chunks! I mean he lost it all. I think everything he had ate during the past week went. It was epic retching. People came from the other side of the boat to witness the spectacle. To this day I have never seen a poor soul in that much agony or in such a hurry to lose his lunch! I was an awful thing to see. Especially when I wasn't feeling all that great!

After a while the poor guy just hung there on the rail, to weak from his ordeal to move, finally he stood upright, looked at us and his friends who had come over to check on him. They toweled him off and gave him water. Poured some cool water on his head and patted him on the back, the universal signal that "your going to be alright."

He started to explain, "I thought that I was going to make it, I really did, I was feeling better, really, I was! But then I went down to the "Head" to take a leak and I don't know who was in there just before me but, OH MY GOD!!! As soon as I shut the door and the smell hit me, there was no way I could hold it all in!!!" His pals all chuckled and shook their heads and slowly walked him back to his fishing spot.

Of course we all glanced at Roger with a knowing look. Then we all laughed.

On the way back, I spotted the guy, head down, feeling the spray from the waves. Trying to get refreshed from the sea.

Another innocent, devastated by a dose of Roger.

PS: Michelle did end up out fishing us, although her cries of "My arms are weak!" grew a little tiresome. We all had a great fish fry back at home. I will always remember our trips out on the "Dinger Boat" as dad called it. I bet there is another guy who will remember it too!

Have a great night!

Mike

2008-07-20T18:15:00.000-07:00

Story #3

BALL 3

I have written about fishing and about hunting it is time to throw in a sports story. Just for fun. You know the hardest thing I have found about writing these stories is whether or not to clean up some of the language. In some cases I have, in some I haven't. This one may be tough to edit so I want to prepare you before hand.

This probably was not the biggest baseball game for the Gaylord High School Spartan's team, but for me it definitely was. It was my first start, Joe Decker, the starting catcher and senior had hurt himself in some way and Coach Chuck Peik, let me know in school that I would be starting. All day long in school all I could think about was just how in the hell was I going to catch Danny Hoefs fastball? Danny was fast, a little wild, but very fast. He was a senior as well and probably was not all that happy that a fat prick sophomore punk was getting his first start and he was going to have to be extra careful with his pitch selection and was definintely not going to let me call his pitches. This he was sure to tell me later in the day in the high school cafeteria.

Just the thing I needed to hear. Added to the pressure was the fact that we were playing Winthrop High School, the neighboring town and hated rival. Well, hated may be a bit strong. No, hated is right.

After school, I suited up in the locker room. Took the long walk down to the field. Looked over at the pool, where I had spent so many hours in the past, wishing there was water in it so I could drown myself.

The game started easily enough. The first inning, I did drop a swinging third strike and threw down to first for the out. It was the only pitch I dropped in the inning. I was pretty damn happy.

The second inning, a two out single gave Winthrop it first baserunner. First pitch the guy took off. I threw down to second low, so low that Danny had to hit his knees so I did not nail him, and only a great stop by our shortstop kept the ball from going into centerfield. I got the "Eye" from Danny. Coach Peik shouted encouragement from the dugout. The next batter hit a dribbler back to the mound for the third out. Thank God!

I came to the plate in the bottom of the second, and fanned on 3 straight pitches, the last two the first curveballs I had ever seen in a game. The third strike I know I missed by a foot. But it was a vicious swing.

Top of the third, here is where it gets interesting. After getting my gear on and as I ran out to the plate, I noticed my dad, about to sit down in the stands, 2 rows behind home plate. Now my dad did occasionally come to baseball games, t-ball, little league, and town team games, where he usually stood near the consession stand where Kenny Kirsch and the Grain Belt beer was located. This was the first time I had ever seen him at a high school game in the afternoon. There was no beer being sold. I figured that I was the draw. Crap.

Sure enough, first guy up, pop up to third. Second guy up, Fastball. Swing, foul tip straight back and down right into my crotch. Whack! Dead center on the cup. Now, the cup is a very important piece of equipment for a catcher, uncomfortable, but important so you put up with the discomfort. The cup is a great protective device but it is not a miracle worker. A fastball probably in the high 80 mph, (high school yes, but Danny Hoefs WAS fast!) Tipped or not it hurt like hell. I dropped like I was shot. I know I threw up in my mouth a little bit. I swallowed it back down though. Al Guggisberg was the batter, I knew Al from working the pea pack with him in the fields. He looked down and giggled, not loud, but I heard it. Bastard. Chuck Peik hustled out of the dugout, the home plate umpire, Leo Lick, Gaylord's Mayor AND my agriculture teacher, looked down on me rolling and groaning in the dirt around home plate all showing concern. They pushed me on my side and I rolled on my back, trying to get my wind back. That's when I heard it. "JESUS CHRIST" "GET THE HELL UP" "YOU BIG PUSSY" "WANT YOUR MOMMA?" "WALK IT OFF" "IT ONLY HURTS TIL THE PAIN GOES AWAY" "JESUS CHRIST!!!"

Leo, looked down on me, he was kneeling down on one knee and asked me, or Mr. Peik or whoever was near, "Who is that?" Through gritted teeth I whispered back, "That's my dad" We all looked towards him. Sure enough. Actually I was hoping it was Mrs. Stoll, but no, it was Roger.

Leo again looked down at me and said, "Tough crowd," "Tell me about it" I replied. I got to my knees, then my feet, shakily took a couple steps. Took a deep breath. Picked up the ball and handed it to Danny, who I was amazed had actually come off the mound to check on me. It WAS his world and I was only living in it.

The game went on, I have no Idea what happened from that pitch on. I must have made it through. I have no idea who won, or lost. I only know I survived.

I also know that Chuck Peik is one of the nicest men I have ever known. Leo Lick was a great Mayor of Gaylord for many, many years, was a veteran of the D-Day Invasion, and was very afraid of snakes. Al Guggisberg and I worked together for 2 more years in the pea fields of southern Minnesota. He was a very good tailback for the Winthrop Warriors, not good enough to beat us, but good! Danny Hoefs never became my best friend.

But my dad had ice waiting for me when I got home to the R & R. Nobody can say that he didn't care!

PS: I have no children. Still.

2008-07-19T19:11:00.000-07:00

STORY #2

CLIMB THAT MOUNTAIN

September 1976. Daily Ranch, 25 miles west of Buffalo WY.

In late September of 1976, my father signed me up to deer hunt with him in Wyoming. No one was very happy about this trip, not mom, not my sisters, not my coaches, not my teachers, not the principle, and not the super. Nobody but me and maybe, dad. We left Friday night after the game, headed to Lafayette, to pick up Roger Anderson and Kenny Eckstrand. We joined up with the Howard Huffman group heading west. Our group were in my dad's Silverado Pickup with camper attached. We hit interstate 90 and settled into a steady pace. Me a new inexperienced driver behind the wheel all alone in the cab, with the rest of the guys back in the camper playing cards and taking advantage of the fully stocked bar.

About in the middle of the state of South Dakota, a few flakes of snow appeared, about 20 miles west, the snow was getting pretty thick, still I pressed on. about an hour later, in full whiteout conditions, I pulled over and let the following truck take the lead. The group of card players in the back asked me what I was doing. (In not such a nice manner) I told them that I was letting Howard lead for awhile. their game continued. I kept rolling. well, if rolling is about 15 mph, then I was rolling. Soon the snow was over and in the mid morning when we stopped for gas and breakfast, the bleary eyed card players were shocked to see snow piled up on the trailer and in the truck stops parking lot. I was asked why didn't stop and have one of them drive. I asked them if they would have, in fact driven if I had asked? The answers left me thinking that there was no way that they would have taken the wheel. Looking at their condition I would not have let them drive anyways.

We arrived at the ranch set up camp and prepared our gear. Met the rancher and he loaded us up into his pickup box and drove us around the ranch, well at least some of it. I remember that we came over a little rise and on a fresh cut of alfalfa, half covered with snow, there was at least 200 deer looking at us. I could not believe it. I had never seen that many deer at one time. I was pumped!!

The next morning dad and I headed out and walked a ridge line that looked over a coulee. We spotted a number of nice bucks but the range was a little far so on we went. We topped out on a bluff and looked across the abyss at a small herd of Mule Deer. Dad and I dropped to the ground and propped my Winchester Model 70 chambered for .270 cal. The Jack O'Connor Special and dad with his trusty Winchester Model 88, lever action, .308 cal. I sighted on the biggest buck of the lot, took a deep breath, slowly exhaled and sque....KA-POW!! Roger unleashed the beast! The deer on the hilltop were running in circles. They were just as surprised as I was! I looked through the Redfield scope and tried to spot the big bruiser I had picked out just moments before and in the mass of movement, I could not pick him out! I spotted another and held on his shoulder and squeezed the trigger! The mud flew from his feet as my bullet hit the ground about 10 feet short of my prize. What the heck? I worked the bolt and slammed home another round in the chamber. Sighted and looked for another buck, or the same one, or a bigger one. They were still running around on the hill side. I touched off another round and this time I hit at the deers feet! Cycled another round and elevated above the now fleeing deers backs and let'er rip! I could not see where the bullet hit, or if it hit or what it hit. I looked at the now empty hill top and saw not a deer down, Now, I know that Roger was shooting as well and we both looked and looked at the empty hill. I pulled out my binoculars and looked, nothing. I looked at my dad and he said, "Well. you better run over there and see if you can spot any blood trail.

I took off down the bluff like I was shot out of a cannon! Down I went, and down, at first not so steep, but in short fashion it dropped down at an alarming pace. I was stumbling and cussing and dropping shit left and right. tripped and went down, ass over elbows! Holding on to the rifle with a death grip. Finally on the bottom of the canyon, I puked my guts out. Bacon and eggs and toast everywhere. There was a small creek at the bottom of the canyon, I washed off and looked for a place to cross. Sweating profusely I knelt down and took a swig of water from the creek. The sweetest, coldest water I ever drank. I washed the puke off of my shoes and pants. Now breathing easier I crossed the knee deep stream, with my 8" boots and ambled across the narrow canyon floor to the steep incline that faced me. Up I climbed. Slung my rifle across my back and used both my hands and feet to crawl onward and upward. Now on my knees I strained ever upwards. About half ways up I came to a barbwire fence, (probably not Redbrand) that had rotted or rusted off the posts. It was a barrier that had to be breached. I wiggled through. As well as a 264 lb. sixteen year old can wiggle. I went a few more yards. Gripped a branch of some kind and puked out what was left of my breakfast. Hanging on in an almost straight vertical state I looked back at the old fence and saw a rotting deer carcass/skeleton. Poor deer must have fallen off the same hill I was now climbing. I pondered this fact for a while and was snapped out of my thoughts when I heard my name being hollered from across the canyon. It was my dad, he had lost sight of me and was wondering if I was resting or had died. He also told me to get a move on as he did not want to sit there all day! If I could have seen him, one bullet would have done it. I'm sure.

Upward my journey continued. Foot by foot I advanced, until finally I reached the the top. There on top of the hill were tracks galore, droppings, scrapes, rubs, all the deer sign a guy could ever want, except for blood. I covered every inch of the hilltop, I covered the hill side, I trudged down the backside of the hill. No Blood. I looked back across the canyon from hell and spotted my dad, and hollered "Nothing!" At this point I realized that the distance across the canyon was at least 700 yards! It would have been sheer luck to have hit a running deer at this distance.

As I looked back at dad, and saw him motion with his arm for me to come back, I also realized what a dumb ass I was. Through the breeze on the top of the bluff across the way, I could hear the old man yell. "And don't take so fucking long getting back!"

Damn!

PS. Later on this trip dad took a huge Mule deer Buck 5 x 5, a monster! His biggest deer ever. I also took my biggest buck of my life on this trip. Although it was not even close to as big as dads, monster buck. A fact he never quit reminding me of. EVER!

PPS: A few weeks later I was diagnosed with a bacterial infection in my stomach from drinking bad water. Let me tell you that it sucks playing ball, knowing that your bowels may empty at any moment. Heightens the sense of drama. I also lost about 40 lbs in about 2 months. As a diet I would not recommend though.

Tomorrow!

Spike

2008-07-18T19:59:00.000-07:00

Well first let me start by letting you all know that it is official, I am a resident of North Dakota as of 10:00 am today. Now I can shoot ducks for more than 2 weeks. My secret motive all along!

I am right now in the breakfast nook of the Expresswy Inn in Bismarck. My current residence does not have internet service so I am here pounding out this blog. Just for you all. Especially you Ryan! Yes Ry, looks like Benton will have a play buddy! How about that! Jeez! I still can't believe it. MISSY A MOM!!!!! Very COOL!

OK here goes, Since I have already made my mom shed a tear or two tonight when I called her to see how she was doing. Missy sent her flowers from Alaska and Michelle talked to her as well. If you have not guessed, today is the 6 month anniversary of my father, Rogers, death. He passed away at 3:25 am on January 18, 2008 at the St. Cloud Hospital. He got the Leukemia and gave it a good run but in the end it was not to be. Now he watches over us, I can hear him yelling at me every day! "Buy you books and buy you books!" It is a lot more peaceful when I go home. But I still wish he was here. God help me.

I have promised to spend the next 7 days writing a story a day about my dad, and the way he shaped my life and our relationship. The good, the bad and the down right ugly.

I should first state that if any of you readers have a particular Roger story that you would want told, just email me at spikeidji@yahoo.com and I will do my best to include them as well.

STORY #1

It was the early spring of 1974, Late March to the best of my recollection. I was sitting in my 8th grade speech class, taught by Ms. Fogerty. It was the 2nd class of the day and I had just settled into my desk, no doubt trying to stay awake after talking my mom into letting me watch the Johnny Carson Show on TV the night before.

Suddenly the relative silence in the room was broken when an announcement squawked out of the brown box up on the wall, "Mike Miller please report to the main office, and bring you coat." WHAT???? I would have sworn that they said Mike Miller? Crap they did! This can not be good. I grabbed my books and headed to my locker where I deposited my books, put on my coat and slowly headed to the main office. Upon reaching the office, I peeked in and saw my father standing inside. Now let me tell you right now, this was a very scary sight. My dad was standing there talking to the principle, Mr. Pattee and he did not look happy. I stood outside trying to think of all the things that I could have possibly done wrong for my dad to come to school and yank me out of class. Try as I may, nothing came to mind. I was pretty much an angel in school you can ask anyone, it's true. I never really caused any problems for my parents, never drank, never smoked, no drugs, no parties. When I look back on it my Mom should have a special day just in my honor, especially after the hell that my sisters Michelle and Missy put her through! NOTE TO MY SISTERS: You know how true that is!!! Don't even try to call me to plead your case!

OK, I digress, After standing outside the office, much like a deer in the headlights, Kathy the secretary noticed me standing there, fear not allowing me to enter the room. As I haltingly entered the room and everyone turned to look at me, I think I almost passed out. Dad just looked at me and said that we had a family emergency and we needed to head home as soon as possible. Now, I wondered about what had happened? Was Mom ok? Michelle? Missy? What the heck! I nodded and dad said thanks to the office staff and out the door, and down the hall we went straight out the doors, into the cool, crisp late winter day. As we walked to the Suburban, parked at the front steps, I looked back at the school and I could see kids looking out at me wondering my fate.

Inside the truck, dad looked at me and said that we were heading out to meet his buddies at Lake Washington, near Dassel for some late season Crappie action and he wanted me along because it would mean more fish to take home.

HOLY CRAP!!!

Jeez, what a turn of events! I sat in shock, not sure just what to say. "does Mom know about this?" I asked quietly. "Not Yet" he said. "But she will find out, she always does." Off we went, first to Melvin Klempkins home to switch cars. Now, we had the ultimate fishing vehicle in a full size chevy suburban, brand new and loaded, but dad quickly explained that the ice on Lake Washington was in pretty bad shape and probably could not withstand the weight of the "burb." So 6 of us piled into a 4 door piece of crap car with a rusted out rear floor and a smashed in left-rear driver side door which would not open. Guess where I got to sit. Yep, you guessed it.

We stopped in Hutchinson to get bait and pick up another member of the fishing group. I knew a few of them, Leroy Hahn was there, That I remember, I believe Melvin Klempkin and his son Gary? But the rest were friends of my dad and therefore, were shadowy figures whose name were best left unsaid. Within short order we were at the access of Lake Washington. Good God!!! There had to have been at least 20 yards of open water then the ice sheet, which, as is usually the case in spring ice fishing in Minnesota, was covered in slush! there was no way we were going over that!!?? The guys all piled out of the car I believe there were 7 men and then myself. I stayed in the car, the guys walked the edge of the access and talked a bit, then came back to the car. They took blankets out of the trunk and plugged to holes in the floor. they rolled down the windows. (Mine would not roll down, door smashed remember. They opened the doors and held them open with their feet. The driver, (not sure who it was as I was kind of in shock at this whole scene about to be played out in front of me)Backed up the car about a block or so, hesitated and says, NO SHIT!! He says, "If we go down, grab the kid and get out best you can" He hit the gas and down the access we zoomed. I know that there were shouts of encouragement, lots of colorful language and of course, laughter. We hit the water, with a huge WOOSH! and the car staggered a little then up we popped on the ice surface! Now, inside the car, on impact the blankets popped up from their wedged in positions and sprayed all of us in the back seat with a solid sheet of water and slush. Freezing cold, like I was trapped inside a snowcone. we slowed down, to almost a stop, the icy streams of water spraying inside the car. We crept along and headed toward a small group of anglers already fishing on the lake.

We assembled out gear and drilled a few holes, I rigged the jig sticks, No reels in those days gang! Baited 4 rods and put them down the hole. The men around me were doing likewise, for the most part. It was almost 1 pm and we were fishing! I was NOT in school! Not giving a speech! I was fishing! It was GREAT!

Now here it gets really amazing. I am pretty sure that the crappies committed suicide. They just kept biting, and biting. The beer and snowshoe grog and blackberry brandy was also flowing. In massive quantities, I might add. Not just for us, the band of seven; but the small group of hardy anglers we joined were also having great success. Now in 1974 i'm pretty sure that limit on crappies was about 30 a piece. Northern Pike and Walleye season was closed at this time not that it really seemed to matter that much to the group. the pile of fish laying on the ice was growing to epic proportions. At about 8 pm, it was my job to start shoveling fish into the trunk of the piece of crap, death trap of a car we came in. Houston, we have a problem, the trunk was full of fish, and there was still a sizeable pile on the ice. we went to the guys on the ice and asked if they wanted any more Crappie? They took some but there were still 25 to 50 fish on the ice. The ones that were still flopping around we slid back into the holes and hoped for the best. The others we stuffed into every open crevice in the trunk and into the car we loaded up. Fish were laying atop the blankets on the floor and we then slowly rolled down the lake towards the access. As we approached the now even larger open water hole at the access. We accelerated and with a giant splash we slogged onward to dry land! It did not take long until someone decided that we needed to get rid of some of these fish and we headed towards a home on Lake Marion. Try as I may, I can not remember the mans name, but I know he was the leader of a very popular polka band in the area, maybe a Shuft? Maybe Wally Pikal? I say Wally Pikal, because I seem to vaguely remember a pogo stick and trumpet playing included in the evenings festivities. There we set up shop in the basement and started to clean fish. More beer and now whiskey flowed and the the filet knives were flashing. This is where I really learned the skills that helped me years later during my Gander Mountain Days, doing the many seminars on how to clean and prepare fish. The accordians came out and there were many songs played, classics like "Beer Barrel Polka" and "She's to Fat Polka's" Many slurred lyrics spat out and slime and scales just flying about. At 3:00 am the fish were cleaned and packaged. Not proud of it really today, but I would bet that we cleaned at least 400 crappies and maybe a few Walleyes to boot.

We loaded into the piece of crap, death trap car. I'm not really sure who drove. I know I did not sleep a wink on the way home. We got back into Gaylord around 4:20 and got into the Suburban and headed off to the R & R Drive Inn, (home) There I fell into bed, pretty much exhausted and covered with fish slime and scales. (Prep for Alaskan guiding experience)

It seemed like just minutes later my Mom was waking me to get up and get ready for school. NO WAY! I begged and pleaded, that I be able to sleep in and skip school for another day. NO DICE! Mom said, "You want to hang out with the men, you have to pay the price!" I still tryed to cover my head and hope that she would forget about me. NO CHANCE! All she had to say in the end was, "do I have to get your father?" CRAP! Up and away to school I went. Riding the bus into town, I had the chance to reflect on the whole experience, as I have many times since. I'm still not sure what made my dad, pick me up from school and take me along. I never asked him. I wish now I had. I hope it was for more than being just another limit to bring home. I believe it was. It is a memory that will stay with me forever. I got to hangout with my dad and his pals, catch a huge amount of fish and watch the effects that alchohol have on seemingly normal men. I also learned that it sucks to clean fish all night long and most importantly. Never own a piece of crap, death trap car!

UNLESS IT HAS A BIG TRUNK AND IT CAN FLOAT!

Thanks Dad!

Love ya!

2008-07-06T19:02:00.000-07:00

Hello all, it has been awhile. Shortly I will be reporting on my where abouts and what I have been up to and what is going on in my family.

I have taken a 6 month time out to look at the direction my life is heading and well.......

On January 18th my Father passed away. Starting on July 18th I will start up this blog again with one week of daily blogs with stories about my dad and myself. Kind of a how he shaped my life. The good, the bad, and the ugly. Funny, sad and frightening. Watch for it.
I miss you all. It has been a long time.

Spike

2007-11-09T14:44:00.000-08:00

The Dove Hunters, Corky, Dusty, Lee in front. Eddie and Spike in the Back!

The Dove Field

Spikes Blind

The Beverage ATV!!!!
Spike's First Dove Hunt! Greenville North Carolina

On my recent trip to North Carolina to visit my sister Michelle. I had the chance to go hunting with my brother-in-law Corky and a few of his friends from Mooresville, NC. This was a very interesting hunt. The place we hunted was what was called a registered field hunt. The farmer planted 2 huge fields with early corn. He also planted the outside rings of the fields with Sunflowers. The corn was then harvested in alternating strips. The hunt organizers then went out and placed little marker flags up in blind or shooting positions. The hunters paid at the registration tents and received a piece of paper with permission from the land owners to hunt the property and a yellow marker flag to mark their blind or spot of choice. If you did not bring a ATV to search out your hunting location, there were vans available to shuttle you out to the various fields hunting locations. you could just ride with the van and signal them when you found a spot you liked and you set up your shooting position. The limit is 12 doves per person. The hunt managers also had people driving ATV's loaded with coolers of Ice Cold Beverages, (sorry, no beer!) and also had hotdogs and burgers available to those in need. The beverage ATV's also did a great job of keeping the birds moving! Our party of 5 shot the 60 bird limit and many, many more shot shells that that. The next day we had a terrific grilled dove party in Michelle and Corky's backyard! There were more that 150 hunters at the hunt and most had a great day of shooting. It was hot though. Definitely NOT fat man's weather! It did make the beer flow better when we got home to Tarboro.

Here are some of the Photo's of the hunt!

Always,

Spike

2007-11-07T20:01:00.000-08:00

North Dakota, Trip #2 October 27-30, 2007

Bjork? or Smitty?

Roger says "Hi!"

Corey discusses his love life with Sadie.

Roger at work.

2007-11-07T19:44:00.000-08:00

Buffle Head from Island Lake.

Magic on the move!

PUFFY!

Time for a new Prop?

North Dakota waterfowl hunt! October 27th - 30th, 2007

2007-11-07T18:56:00.000-08:00

Nipper and Magic on the retrieve!

Smitty's first Swan!

Nipper, Spike, Smitty, Roger and Corey

Spike chillin' in the Water Bitch!

Photo's of our second hunt in North Dakota!

2007-10-06T10:46:00.000-07:00

Corey and Sadie...................Bill with a Wad of Greenheads!.............Lil' Mike Plucking Birds!.......

Lil' Mike and Big Smitty with the Mornings Take!
Sadie and the Greenheads!!!

2007-10-06T10:06:00.000-07:00

The Trip out to North Dakota to partake in our annual Cando Waterfowl Hunt went off without a hitch. After last years virgin effort at field hunting Mallards, we returned with a vengeance and more equipment. Armed with 6 dozen new shiny field Mallard decoys and a bunch of Layout blinds we prepared for the hunt Friday with the prehunt scouting and prep of equipment.

Saturday Morning up at 4:45am and in the field at 5:25 unloading gear and setting up blinds. The morning was cool and dark with barely a whisper of wind. As the blinds were set and the decoy spread was laid out, a quiet sense of anticipation set in as Bill and Smitty drove the trucks off of the field and we entered the blinds and waited to see if the birds would cooperate. I for one was not sure of our approach as we had put our eggs in one basket as all seven of our group were set out in a shooting line. The minutes quickly ticked by as we waited for the magic shooting time to arrive. With just minutes to go we had Mallards everywhere! We had more than 40 birds working the decoys when word travelled down the line that it was time to shoot and to wait for the call, which would come from Bill or I. We had a group of birds drop so low to the ground straight out that they were below the sightlines of my feet! they were cupped and locked into the spinners. "Let 'er Buck" came the shout and a murderous volley of steel filled the air. A couple of hours later we were done. Our limit filled. Young Greenheads primarily filled the bag, with a sprinkling of Hen Mallards and a couple of Pintails to round out the bag. Out first real foray into field hunting Mallards was a success. For 3 straight days we hunted the same field. With similar results! I just wish that Roger could have been along to see it. On the day before the trip Roger went in to the Dr. for a routine medicine checkup, and they found him very pale and a very low blood pressure. They immediately sent him to the St. Cloud Hospital and he was in the hospital until Wednesday afternoon. Missed the whole hunt. But he had nurses to harass rather than us! So, it was not all bad!

More Pictures to come! Check them out!

Spike

2007-09-21T08:11:00.000-07:00

Our Oyster shucker at Sunnyside Oyster Bar

Right- My sister Michelle and an oyster about to meet it's end!

Interesting Eats In North Carolina

Ok, in my last blog in talked about my new favorite Steak House. Now, I will tell you about a place that has been schucking oysters since 1932. One of the oldest oyster houses in America today. It is called the Sunnyside Oyster Bar and it is located in Williamston, North Carolina. The Street address is 1102 Washington St. Williamston, NC 27892 #252-792-3416

This little bar and Oyster house is extraordinary in it's simplicity. It consists of a Bar in the main "Big House" which is complete with large screen TV to enjoy the weekends games as well as your favorite adult beverage. The back room is where the magic happens. The walls are white and sea scape photo's and art decorate the walls. The room is highlighted by the centerpiece oyster bar which is a rectangular bar, lined with wooden bar chairs. The waiter is your well.....your waiter, shucker and entertainer.

We placed our beverage order, (UN-sweet tea for me) and after the tea arrived the waiter asked us what we would like for dinner. I had seen no menu or prices, I scanned the wall for a hint of what was available and saw no clues so I looked to my sister for help. Without hesitation Michelle said "Peck of Oysters please" Corkey said "half pound of shrimp and a half pound of scallops" The waiter then look at me. I ordered a pound of shrimp. The waiter left and returned with 2 teapots that he took off of a hotplate in the corner. He set out a couple of small serving bowls in front of each of us and poured from the teapots hot butter :) and hot cocktail sauce! Within a few seconds the food arrived. The pound of shrimp came in a larger serving bowl as did Corkey's scallops and shrimp. The oysters came in a big ass roaster pail and our waiter/shucker poured them into the lower bar level and began opening up the perfectly cooked oysters. We were given crackers and Texas Pete hot sauce and another small bowl of horseradish to accompany the meal. Simple and tasty as all hell. In their literature and on the internet there was much mention about their special cocktail sauce. I guess I did not see it, it was to me a bit bland, but with the horseradish added to it, we pepped it up a bit and man did Michelle and I proceed to pound down the oysters!!! I soon ordered a half pound of scallops and Michelle ordered another half a peck of oysters and when it all was over they almost had to get a cart in there to wheel us out. Faces and chins dripping butter and sauce, fingers licked clean. We waddled out to the car and let Corkey drive us back to Tarboro.

I never did learn of the prices as Corkey paid the tab. I believe that the total was $60 something. The place is only open from September to April (oyster season) and there was not to many people there as it was just newly reopened for the season and it was a Monday night. I do know however that it is a popular spot as the couple across the bar from us drove 3 hours to eat at the Sunnyside! I place this high on my list of Oyster bars for its down home charm and portions of food which were substantial. If you find yourself on the Greenville, NC area be sure to stop in and have a Peck!

I almost forgot about the Red Hot . As you near the end of your oyster order, our waiter asked us if we wanted to partake in a Sunnyside tradition called the Red Hot? After some discussion Michelle and I agreed to try one. As near as I can figure, it is as follows. A square of salted cracker, 2 small jalapeno peppers with an oyster placed on top, then a generous spoonful of horseradish on top of the oyster and a through coating of Texas Pete's Hot sauce topping off the whole thing. Yeah Baby!!! Bring on the Iced Tea or Beer! One was enough!

Always,

Spike

2007-09-18T19:50:00.000-07:00

If Your Ever In Central North Carolina

Recently while visiting my sister, Michelle in Tarboro NC. I had the opportunity to take in a couple of unique establishments offering damn fine dining. The first that I will tell you about is The Beefmastor Inn 2656 US Highway 301 Wilson NC 27893 #252-237-7343 No reservations available. This place is incredible! A steakhouse of distinction. Worth a special trip from the Raleigh area without a doubt. First of all as we arrived at 5:10 pm (it opens at 5) the parking lot was full. I noticed the people in the truck next to me open their tailgate a sit down on it and chug a beer! I soon learned the 411. This place takes no reservations so it's first come first served. Upon arriving you enter the small brick and white shuttered building looking much like a small rambler style home. You give them your name and order a brew or wine cooler and retreat out to your vehicle. If it's hot (Usually is) then you start your car or truck turn on the air and proceed to drink up! Go in and pick up another and start over again until a guy sticks his head out the door and yells your name. YAHOO!! Now the fun really starts. You enter the building and you find yourself already in the dining area. There are 10 tables, red and white tablecloths equipped with your silverware and basic seasonings. The waiter appears and takes your beverage order immediately. I as usual had a un-sweet tea. As Michelle and I took a swig of our tea a guy shows up at the table carrying a huge chunk of Prime Ribeye and sets it upon the table and says "we start out at 8 ounces and move the knife until you say when! Michelle stops at the 8 ounce Ribeye while I let the knife mosey on down the chunk of beef till I feel it has reached the portion needed to satisfy a steak eating legend as myself. (Yeah Baby!) The waiter says help yourself to the salad bar and we will bring your meal when it has reached your specified state of perfection (Medium Rare for me) The Salad bar while small in over all length was filled constantly with fresh fixings. I made myself a grand salad with just the selections that I wanted on it! It was so good that I went back and made another trying to out do the first in taste and appearance. Tossed in a couple of peppercini's to waken the taste buds and retired to the table. Just as I pulled the last of the pepper off of the stem my dinner arrived. A beautiful Prime Ribeye juicy and perfect, a huge baked potato and a grill toasted piece of Texas toast. a half a stick of BUTTER!!! and a bowl of Sour Cream. No steak sauce needed as the steak was second to none! Ruth Chris, Murray's, Morton's you name it.
This was one of the most interesting dining experiences I have had in a long time. Here are a couple of reasons why, NO Women Waitress's, only men cooking serving and cleaning. Now I am not sexist and usually enjoy having a lovely young lady bringing me my order, but in this steak wonderland this setup just felt right. NO Menu!!! Drinks, Salad, Steak, Spud and Toast. That's it! No fish, No chicken, No ribs, JUST GIANT RIBEYES!!!!! Throw in the tailgating atmosphere in the parking lot while waiting to enter and you have the Beefmastor Inn.
Take the trip if your in the area and maybe even if your not and have some time to kill.
Next time I will tell you about the Sunnyside Oyster Bar in Williamston NC!
Stay Tuned!!!

2007-09-14T12:26:00.000-07:00

Upper Left: Cars rolling off pit row.
Upper Right: Michelle and Mike in the Winners Circle!
Lower Left: Pit Row in fore ground and finish line in background car #24 on track.
Lower Right: Looking from Gasoline Alley at pit row and front stretch. Scoring tower.

U

Lowe's Motor Speedway

Hello All!

I just returned from North Carolina, visiting my sister Michelle. I travelled the state almost from end to end applying for jobs, dining in all the best spots and seeing the sights. One of the many highlights of the trip was a tour of the Lowe's Motor Speedway in Concord Mills, NC just North of Charlotte.

First, If you find yourself in the area, stop into the speedways gift shop and sign up for the tour. It only costs $5.00 making it the best value of the trip, unless you count the evening I spent talking to a beautiful North Carolinian at my sisters home. Sorry about that, back to the race track tour. Our group of 9 loaded into a van with our guide and proceeded to drive off around the exterior of the speedway with our guide telling us about the growth of the track and the area around it. I did not know that there are a number of condos built into the track and a number of them house year around tenants. Richard Petty owns one as does Mario Andretti. We looked at the Dirt Track, one of the busiest tracks in the south. We then went through the tunnel and into the infield. Did you know that there is a road test track on the infield of the Raceway? During the race over 33,000 people live in the infield with over 170,000 people in attendance on race day! During the Coca-Cola 600 race in October the people in and around the track will be the 3rd largest city in North Carolina!

We toured the infield Hospital, Gasoline Alley, the Busch Series Garage area and of course the NASCAR Garage area. So clean that you could eat off the floor! I even hung out in the Winners Circle! During our tour there were numerous cars testing the track. They screamed around the track at incredible speeds. I even caught a few on my camera, which was no easy feat. Those babies were moving!

Then we got to get out on the track. Our van stopped in the beginning of turn 1 and had to hang on tight because of the 20 degree banking in the corners of the track. After the stop, our driver who happened to be a lady about 70 years old, opened it up and we sped off around the track at speeds up toward 100 mph!! Michelle was pounding the hell out of my leg in fear. It was cool looking at the Black tire marks on the wall, which was about 6 inches from my face! I think it would have been better to be at the wheel. There is a couple of schools available at the track that you can take so you can experience the feel of driving a NASCAR style car at these speeds! Maybe next time!

Above are some pictures from the tour. Next time I'll report on the Dove hunt!

Always,

Spike

2007-08-12T18:52:00.000-07:00

A GOOD MAN GONE

In my life there have been 3 men, other than my father, whom I feel are responsible for my becoming the man that I have become. While in some instances, I feel that in no way can I ever reach their level in kindness, grace and guidance.

Sadly all three are now gone. These three men were pillars of their communities. Not, in your face political leaders, forceful blowhards, taking themselves and their positions in life, WAY to seriously, but quietly with their thoughtful words and deeds.

One was my Grandfather, Ike Lubenow. Gas Station owner, Stock Car racer, Go-Kart racer and fisherman. The next was Henry Uecker, Milk Man, Semi Driver, Next door neighbor and fisherman and hunter. The man whom I will write about here in this small tribute that is in no way fitting, is my long time friend and neighbor, father of my best friend in High School and all around great man. He also was one heck of a Walleye angler and Duck Hunter. His name is Edgar Abraham

I will never forget him, he always had time to talk to me, ask me how I was doing. Where I had been hunting or fishing, if I had been having any luck, how my family was. There are many things that I can say about Edgar, I will keep this breif because he would not want me to say these things, because he was a private man. Edgar was a veteran of WWII, he was a tanker. He served under General George S. Patton. Fought his way across Northern Africa, Italy, France and Germany. He was awarded 3 medals for things that he never mentioned or talked about. He married Marie who was one of the sweetest women I have ever met. One of the things that sticks in my mind was when I must have been in 6th ot 7th Grade. I was out playing with Edgars son, Jon, at the feed store that Edgar owned, on the south side of Gaylord. John and I played damned near every sport there was, and possibly some that we may have even invented ourselves. This particular day we were pitching and hitting a baseball around the yard. Jon threw a fastball down the pipe, and I got around on it and blasted that ball as far as I had ever hit a baseball before. It was an incredible feeling! Until the ball managed to smash right through Edgar's Maroon worktrucks windschield. I almost fainted, I knew I was dead! All I could think of was that if it was my dads truck or car, my mom would be picking out what I would be wearing in my funeral. Edgar had seen the whole thing and came down off the steps of the shop, looked at the windshield, opened the door and retrieved the ball, looked at me and said "Well, you got all of that one, maybe I should call Calvin Griffith and tell him to come out and bring a pen to sign you up." I was stunned. I have never forgotten it.

I also remember travelling up to Canada on our yearly summer camping and fishing trip up to Minnaki. It was Edgar, his son Jon, my father Roger and myself. Jon and I must have been 13 or 14. When we crossed the border at Baudette, a young custom's agent lady evidently thought that we were international terrorists, because we were all but strip searched. They tore apart the Travel-All, the Tow-Low Camper, our luggage, coolers, even the silverware drawers in the camper. Seemed like it took forever. Edgar was just a calm as ever, he even had a calming effect on my dad, which really when you really think of it was amazing! I have crossed the border into Canada, many, many times since that day and I have never been stopped since. I look back on it now and can only believe that it was because of Jon that we were stopped! :)

Lastly, I remember Edgar and the Duck Hunting trips that we took together. Lake Titloe, Altnow slough and Leech Lake. I remember when we went up to Leech and stayed at Sugar Point Resort, Walleye Fishing and Duck Hunting. Edgar reloaded his shot shells and on this occasion we had worked down the lake towards Boy Bay and had set our blocks up on a small point on a windy, cold and overcast day. As dawn broke a small flock of ducks swung into the wind and dropped from the sky, lowering their feet as though reaching out for the water and camaraderie promised below. Edgar said "Take'm!" and we rose as one, waiting for Edgar to open the show, when there was this noise, not a bang, or a boom, or a ka-pow. It was more of a phfffft, or a poof! We all looked back at Edgar and and he had this strange look on his face, then he lifted up his gun and pointed the barrel towards the water and the pellets rolled into the water, plop,plop,plop. "Not enough powder I guess" said Edgar. Man, did we laugh at that! I also remember Jon, pouring a cup of ice cold water down my dads ass crack on that trip. But that's another story.

A few weeks ago, I stopped in to visit Edgar at the nursing home in Hutchinson. He was in great pain. I brought him a copy of the Outdoor News, got him a nurse to try to ease his pain., and sat with him until it was time for him to go to dialysis. We got to catch up a little bit, not as much as I would have liked. If I would have known that it would be the last time on earth I would see him, I would have said more and I would have been their earlier. But, well you never know. He did tell me to stop by and say hello to Jon and his wife, and his grandson Sam, which I will soon.

I will miss Edgar, as I miss Henry and My Grand Father Ike. Great friends and community leaders to most, but Legends and Hero's to me.

Good Bye Edgar, God Speed!

GAYLORD — Edgar F. Abraham, 87, of Gaylord, died Wednesday, Aug. 8, 2007, at Birchwood Hospice House in Hutchinson. Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 11, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Gaylord, with military rites by the Manthey-Asmus American Legion Post #433. Interment in the church cemetery at a later date. Visitation will be 4 -8 p.m. Friday at Egesdal Funeral Home in Gaylord. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service at the church. Edgar Frank Abraham was born on March 19, 1920, in Gaylord to Samuel and Antonia (Goetsch) Abraham. He was a U.S. Army veteran, serving in the European Theater from November 1942 to December 1945. Edgar is survived by his sons, Ronald Abraham of Elysian, Jon Abraham of Gaylord; a grandson; sisters, Alvira Doerre of Gaylord, and Norma Doering; and a brother, Ernst Abraham of Minneapolis.

2007-07-09T16:37:00.000-07:00

Hello all! The King of Shrubs has told me that he misses my always interesting and often informational bogs. I have been remiss in updating and it is my fault, with nothing but sloth and slumber to blame.

First, the end of April found me leaving my job at Gander and heading off into the great big land of unemployment. I have been looking for something that hopefully I will enjoy and challenge me for the rest of my days. Which hopefully will be along time. Friends have said that I am struggling with a midlife crisis. To which I say "I HOPE" because that would mean that I will live till I'm 92! Which I find highly doubtful.

I find myself looking at jobs that I have always wanted to do but never asserted myself in these areas.

Cowboy- Love to camp, love the outdoors, love steak. BUT could never put a horse through the pain and agony of carrying me on its back.

Life Guard- Love the Water, Love the sand, Love women in Bikini's. BUT, the damn Do-Gooders always try to roll me back into the water to save me!

Porn Star- Love Sex, Love Women, Love ...well that's about it. BUT, Shy around women, Size Matters and Do-Gooders always try to roll me back into the surf!

So it looks like I will stay in the field that I know a bit about. Now if any one can tell me just what the hell that may be let me know!

I have, however been fishing a bit. Lately my catching has not been all that great but well I have been trying and that's what matters! I am including some photo's of my recent exploits for you to ponder!

Always,

Spike

2007-04-04T20:09:00.000-07:00

Missy! Wish you were here!

The Miller Family at the Famous Dave's BBQ in Maple Grove MN.

Michelle was in Visiting from Tarboro NC and Grandma, was feeling up to the trip so off we went!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!

Ronna Miller Turns ??????? Lets just say it's a BIG ONE!!! Love you Mom!!!

Roger even had some ribs! He may have even paid the tab!

Spike

2007-04-04T19:06:00.000-07:00

Wow, Can you tell that Scott was just on the river! Lucky SOB!

Well. The Great Alaskan Guide, Pilot and Campdog Get Together has come and gone. It was so great to see the guys again. I had not seen many since 1993 or longer! It looked like many could be back on the river again. (just maybe not for as long! It was so good to see Gary Kheen again! He drove up from Wisconsin. He lives in the heart of Wisconnies Turkey and trout fishing lands and looks like next year I know where my spring trip will be! Scott Schumacher flew in from Livingston MT. Where he was getting ready to head north to the copper River Lodge in AK. Where he is the Boss! He already has his guides tan! He had been busy teaching guide school in Montana. Bob White has just got back from Argentina, and had barely washed the fish slime off his hands, but he made it back for the Party! I see Bobs Artwork on just about every Flyfishing Magazine out now. I can say that I knew him back when before he was famous. Scott Struif, man what can you say. Celebrity Guide, he is the one and only! If I had to spend a day on the water with a guide it would be hard not to choose "Tank" I know that I would not even have to fish to enjoy myself! Joe Jones Jr. was a surprise guest, although health issues have slowed him down, he was still able to be there and to see his smile as he showed his pictures and told his stories was all worth it to me. I will never forget Joe and I catching King on the Nush, enjoying a can of Pepsi and laughing like we were nuts! Rob "The knob" Larson is now Married and has a daughter! He is coming off of a health Issue also, where Doc's took a tumor off of his Quad. He may be a little slower now, but speed has little to do with fishing, I prove that every day! It was damn good to see him! Freddie Ardoff and his lovely wife, Wow buddy! She is way to good looking for a lowly guide like you! Steve Laurent, flew in from Ellensberg, he is busy preparing to open up BBL in the mext month or so! As well as keeping a watchful eye on my sister, Melissa! Speaking of Sisters! Michelle flew in from Tarboro NC, and spent the week with the family. Heather the Massage therapist from BBL, was there and basically realized that all guides are crazy. Andy Burton, my old guiding partner and his wife, Elizabeth was there. Andy man, it had been to long. we definately need to keep in touch, I still owe you for keeping that damn bear off my back. as well as the great shore lunches you made. Heavy D! Darren Gallion also flew in from Washington State, where he is a Fishery Biologist with the U. S. Fish and Game Department. It had been way to long my friend! Scott Thorpe was there, I had never met Scott before, could not place him. then as we talked and he mentioned the names that brought back floods of memories and circles of friends that shape a lifetime of wonderous moments of work and fishing. His love of steelheading and the flyrod and how he had quit his job as an archetech, a job he had had for 30 years so he could fullfil a lifelong dream of being an Alaskan Fishing Guide, I knew he had found the right party.
For those who were there Thanks You, I had a ball. For those who could not make it, It was a great time and hopefully down the line when we try this again I truely hope you can make it.

Spike

2007-02-13T14:45:00.000-08:00

The Great Alaskan Guide, Pilot and Campdog Round Up!

Hello Ladies and Gentlemen,

First of all, as the days go by I receive more requests for information about this little get together, so I figured that I would try to quickly compile a list of those that I have contacted , and this way if there is anyone that I may have forgotten of missed (and believe me there are) or if there is someone, not on this list, that any of you know of their whereabouts, or would like us to try to get in contact with, please just call or email me and I will do my best to run them down.
First of all we have narrowed down the evening of the get together to Saturday night March 31st. Andy Burton and Tom Smith have been looking into a location near in the Bloomington area. A location where conversation, cocktails and dinner is a possibility. I’m betting that they will find something that will work well.
I looked at this particular weekend because it is the weekend of the Great Waters Fly Fishing Expo, that is held annually at the Sheraton South Hotel, It was an easy choice because a number of us “outstanding fly fishing type personalities” would already be there so it is a lot like old home week already. For more information on the Fly Fishing Expo look at their website at www.greatwaters2007.com on Saturday night (3-31-07) the show ends at 6 pm giving those who are actually working the show at chance to see and be seen. As an extra bonus, one of the guest speakers at this years Fly Expo is the one and only superstar of Fly Fishing and long time friend of Bristol Bay Lodge and Alaskan Guides in general, Lefty Kreh.
Again, I have already enjoyed just being able to share an email or phone conversation with many of you and am seriously looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible.
If there is anyone not on this list that you believe would possibly be interested in being a part of this bash, feel free to contact me via email or call me at home (218) 444-4741 or my cell (218) 556-8565 or at work (218) 755-6150
The List:
Ron and Maggie McMillian, Tom Smith, Andy Burton, Dan Dyer, Chris Hutchinson, Peter Church, Gary Keehn, Bud Holt Jr., Bud Holt Sr., Greg Larson, Scott Schumacher, Scott Struif, Chris Hansen, Kelly Ferguson, Bob White, Michelle Miller, Melissa Miller, Heather Schwartz, Kari Kreager, Katie Edens, Knox Thompson, Pete Eaves, Matt Holm, Freddy Ardoff, Steve Laurent, Brad and Karla Estelle, Rob Larson, Darren Gallion, Brian Abrahamson, Dave Gelineau, Joe and Janice Johnson, Paul Erickson and Ben Streitz
My sister Melissa, is also getting me a listing of past Bristol Bay Lodge staff so that I can add to the list.
I hope to see you all soon.
One last thing, if you can not make it, send me a note on what you are up to and what you are doing and I will pass it on to the group.
Thanks,
Spike

2007-02-09T22:15:00.000-08:00

2007-02-08T23:28:00.000-08:00

Top: G-Unit getting "Rewarded"! (Jason is stunned!) 2) Spike collecting his winnings. 3) Aaron & Katie cutting the rug! 4) Hippie Boy pointing out to Darcy jsut who is #1 Also check the eyes! Drink Much!

2007-02-08T23:19:00.000-08:00

Top: The Victory Toast! 2) The Magnum Groupies! 3) Jason getting his Groove On! 4) Mutt and Lisa

2007-02-08T01:44:00.000-08:00

3" Magnum's Take Leagues Top Honor!
As the temperature dropped below zero out on the streets of Bemidji. Inside the American Legion Club the mercury was rising! A showdown of major proportions was happening. In front of a large crowd of on lookers, the 3" Magnums took on the Beaver Retrievers in a dart match that would settle the question once and for all, "Who is the best dart team in the NW Fun Time League!" The Mag's started tonights match play, 4 games on top of the Retrievers and 6 games in front of Team Dirt for League honors. Meaning that the 3" Magnums needed to take seven games to assure themselves as Champions of the Fun time League.Mutt and Spike started off the all important first game. Our hero's have had a tough go of it as of late, but tonight the boys came back from an early deficit and took a hotly contested game one. Mutt slammed the door on the hopes of the Retrievers and propelled the boys into an early lead. The Gang of four from the Legion came back in the next game and narrowly defeated the duo of Jason "Hippie Boy" Rylander and "G-Unit" Guthrie, to even the Match at 1 apiece. The Hippie Boy and Spike teamed up for 2 straight games and put the boot to the Beaver Retrievers in a pair of victories. This killed the momentum of the Retrievers and gave the Magnums a lead that they never relinquished. The Hippie Boy stuck the Dagger in the hearts of the team from the legion. The team of Jason and Spike, red hot as of late, again proved to be tough to beat in their 2 games, The Mutt and Spike also went 2-0 and won the decisive 7th game to capture the League Championship!
Jason "Hippie Boy" Rylander won 3 games in the match while Spike took only one. This allowed Jason to take top team win honors in a dramatic come from behind fashion! Jason winning 33 games and Spike winning 32 on the season! The Boy's owe a great portion of their success to the support of their unbelievable fan base! The Magnum Groupies were as usual, the envy of the establishment. Leaving many Legion patrons wondering? Just who are these lucky dart playing pricks, and why do the chicks dig them so? Spike had the best answer, when he simply said that the Magnums were..."LUCKY"! As you can see by this email, the victory celebration went on, well into the night! With Spike not only throwing darts well, but also acting as sober cab for his team mate! (The Mutt!)
The 3" Magnums now attempt to sweep the league hardware by taking the end of the season tournament. The tournament takes place this Saturday, February 10th, starting at 10 am, at the Bemidji Legion Club.
Unfortunately Team Captain "G-Unit" Guthrie will not be present, as he will be "Totally Wasted" at a bachelor Party on Lake of the Woods! Super Sub, Aaron Schmitz will be toeing the mark for the 3" Magnums during the tourney. While the competition will be keen, I believe that 3" Mag's can bring home the hardware once again!
Thanks again to all of the fans for the support, cheers and beers!

G-Unit, Hippie Boy, Spike, The Mutt and Schmitty!
The Mag's!

2007-02-03T15:22:00.000-08:00

3" Magnums Stunned by Shocking Defeat!

It's Super Saturday. It's 1 pm, I've just crawled outof my nice and warm bed, injected myself with insulin, and threw on the sweats. It's -18 degrees outside in beautiful Bemidji at this very moment. -40 with the wind chill! Since I am NOT going outside for pretty much any reason, I may as well get this totally sad Dart Report over with. On a cold January 31st evening in Bemidji, the 3"Magnum Dart team were handed a total and complete ass kicking by the Team Dirt from Dale's Bar. 8 games to 4. Although many of the games were tightly contested and came down to the last dart, The Dirt team came up big and well..... that was that. Even with the defeat, the Magnum's retained first place in the NW Funtime league with just a 4 Game leadover the Beavers Retrievers and a 6 Game advantage over Team Dirt and a 7 game lead over the Alcoholics International quad. There is just one week to go. One last match and it comes right down to the wire as the top 2 teams square off in the season finale. That's right. On Wednesday Night the 3" Magnums play the Beaver Retrievers at the Bemidji Legion at 8 pm. It all comes down to this. If the Magnums win this match they win the League Championship. It is fitting, as nothing seems to come easy for these boys. But as team Captian G-Unit Guthrie said "tis better to be 4 games up than 4 games down!" If the 3' Mags do not pick up their game however, the4 game cushion may not be enough. Hats off to the Team Dirt as it is not easy to come into the 209 Bar, the home of the Magnums, and walk away with the victoty, as it is always filled with the throngs of Magnum Fans cheering on their boys! It was the first time that the 3" Magnums were defeated at home this whole season and only the second setback of the season for the lads. The 3" Magnums would like to thank their fans for their support, and apologize for their recent effort and promise to do everything that they can to take the season championship this week. The dart play by the Magnums was not that bad, just not good enough to put them over the top in this match. "Hippie Boy" Rylander was his usual solid if not spectacular self. G-Unit made his return from his week off and also was solid. For the first time in weeks, Spike held on to his current ranking and did not fall farther in the rankings. "The Mutt" was intense and ready to end it. Some times his partners were not. "We just need to put it all together and play like we know we can and get this damn thing done." said Spike. With our merry band of groupies behind us, how can theMagnums really lose?
I want to send out a personal invitation to all 3"Magnum fans. This is it! The Last One! We could use your support! Hopefully you can be there for the clinching game! A PARTY JUST MAY BREAK OUT!!! Wednesday at the Bemidji American Legion at 8 PM. Win or lose it's worth it just to see the Magnum Groupies!
You just Gotta love em!!!

Spike and the Mags!

2007-01-26T22:27:00.000-08:00

The Gals! Katie and Lisa

The Mutt, Hippie Boy, Spike & Schmitty. Four of the five 3" Magnums!!

2007-01-25T18:24:00.000-08:00

3" Magnums Open A Can Of Whoop Ass!

Bemidji, Minnesota: On a clear, cold. Bemidji night. The 3" Magnums laid the smack down on the "Better When Drunk" team from T. Juan's. Entering into the nights action the Magnums found themselves in first place. Leading the BeaverRetrievers, and Team Dirt by 2 games and the T Juan's,"Better When Drunk" team by 4. With Team Captain, Aaron "G-Unit" Guthrie out of town on business, the 3" Mag's strolled into T Juan's a little apprehensive. The T. Juan's team was hot on their heels in the standings and boasted the top women's player in the league. With the season coming to an end, only 3 weeks left, the Mag's play the top 3 teams in consecutive weeks. The 3" Magnums needed a win. They got it!
Spike and Super Sub Aaron Schmitz, playing for absent team captain Aaron Guthrie, pitched a furious first game. In a see-saw battle that came down to a single dart. Our hero's fell, to the top pair from T Juan's. Starting the fray down 1-0 was not in the plans and the Magnums responded in such a way as had not been seen this whole season. The boys reeled off 11 straight wins! It was a sight to see and the merry band of 3" Magnum groupies were there to take it all in! The 11-1 match victory was the best showing the Magnums have accomplished this whole season!
As far as accolades are concerned, we will start with Kenny "The Mutt" Mutzski, after taking a month off of school and DARTS! The Mutt made an amazing return. Likened to MacArthur returning to the Philippines. The Mutt, Kicked Ass and Took Names! I crawl out on the limb and proclaim The Mutt as "The Greatest Dart Player in The Land" It would be hard to argue the fact. He was incredible! He totally demoralized the Better When Drunk Team.
"Hippie Boy" Jason Rylander was his solid usual self, and tallied 3 wins to draw closer to Spike for the lead in team wins.
Super Sub, Aaron Schmitz threw the winning darts in 5! Yes, I said 5 games!! He came up big when the pressure was on! Filling the "G-Units" shoes can be adaunting task, but Schmitty did so with style!
Spike, well what can we say about Spike. His erratic play has returned. Seemingly always just 1 hole away. He did not garner a single win this week, but did throw enough good darts to set his partners up for victories and well..... he could not have been that bad, the Magnums did, after all win 11 games out of 12! Lets just hope as his eyesight returns and his health stabilizes, his dart prowess will return. Some are attributing his recent below average play with the fact that he is not partaking in alcoholic beverages, due to Doctors orders. Only time will tell.
One last word. The Beautiful bevy of Magnum Babes were there to cheer their team on! Even the lovely Katie Guthrie arrived, sans her husband, to support the Mag's! Darcy was stunning, even wrapped up in her winter coat! It was great to see the breathtaking Lisa back from vacation! (Thank God Christmas breakis over!) Tanya, as always, a true head turner, even without the South Pole Jeans! Kari, What can we say! Inspiration personified all wrapped up in a awesome blonde package. The 3" Magnums are indeed a lucky team. The finest fans in the league and incredible dart talent!
It does not get any easier next week (Jan.31, at 8pm) the 3" Magnums take on Team Dirt from Dales Bar, at home, in the 209 Bar and Grill. 2 weeks to go. Can the Mag's hold on to the lead? Can Spike find his game? If you have been sitting on the fence about taking in the 3" Magnums matches, now is the time to join in the fun and support your favorite dart team. Hell, it's worth it just to hang with the groupies! I brought the camera this week too! Check out the photos!

To check out the NW Funtime Cricket Standings look at the www.northernamusement.com web site!

2007-01-20T18:25:00.000-08:00

The Magnums Win Big!

Bemidji: On Wednesday night the 17th of January, Americas Dart Team, the 3" Magnums, Were at home to take on the One Dart Wonders from the Corner Bar. The 209 Bar was hopping and the Magnums were back in winning form, smoking the Wonders 9 to 3, We are not sure of the standings because they have not been reported on the league's web site as of yet, but we are hoping that with their big win the Magnums, cut down the deficit that separates them from The Beaver Retrievers and First Place in the NW Funtime League. Hopefully they will have it up over the weekend. See www.northernamusement.com Spike working hard with the medical staff of The MeritCare Clinic and the Regions North Hospital and on varied amounts of pharmaceuticals combined with just a couple of Captain Morgan and Diet Cokes threw his team to the easy victory, posting a 5 and 1 record for the series. Jason, the "Hippie Boy" was steady as usual and "Pretty Boy" Schmitz seemed more comfortable with his second consecutive relief appearance. CaptainG-Unit was in even rarer form than usual, as his constant and amazing intake of Windsor was a sight to behold. All players were on edge trying to anticipate when "The Unit" would crash to the floor, trying to soften the blow if possible. The "G-Unit" showed us all, just why he leads the league in MTBDHFDL. "Most Times Being Driven Home From Dart League" He even made it to work on Thursday Morning at 6am. Way to go Aaron!! Next week the 3" Magnums, travel down the road to T-Juans. The T-Juans team is right on the heels of the Magnums, in 3rd place in the league. There is only 3 weeks left in the season and the 3" Magnums play 3 of the top 4 teams during this stretch. "This is where the cream rises to the top" quoted Spike. The title is there for the taking, can our boys do it? Will they be able to bring the trophy back to the 209? Will Spike be able to shake his health issues to toe the line? How will Mutt do after his month long hiatus? Can Schmitty, fill G-Units shoes this week? As the Captain is out of town on Vacation? Can The 3"Magnums MVP, Hippie Boy Rylander continue his torrid pace? Will the Hottest Dart Groupies show up to bolster the boys spirits? All of these questions and more will be answered in the next dart report! Stay tuned!

2007-01-20T18:18:00.000-08:00

3" Magnums Go Down To Defeat!

Bemidji, MN: Terribly sorry that I have not written a dart update for awhile, but well,.... I've been lazy, and sick. First the Bad, on January 10th the 3" Magnums tasted defeat for the first time at the hands of theDistraction team from that Keg and Cork bar in Bemidji, by a 8 games to 4 margin. This loss tumbled the Mag's down to second place in the League. 2 games behind the Beaver Retrievers from the American Legion. While this was just an awful showing by your favorite team it was not the whole story. The Boys did experience some new things that should improve their chances in the weeks remaining. For an example The G-Unit, although his play was erratic, it was interesting watching him cope with Bemidji's New Smoking Ban. Super Sub Aaron Schmitz made his debut as a contributing member of the Magnums and he threw a respectable 1.80 average. We look for big things from him in the upcoming weeks. Lets talk a little about Jason Rylander shall we. First of all It was amazing thing to witness. Watching a man try to stand AND throw darts after drinking, what can only be estimated at about enough Pyramid beer to float a small armada of Walleye boats. Weebles Wobble but don't fall down!! It was comical until the standings came out and we saw that "Hippie Boy" was Player of the week! Through all of out laughter and tears we never noticed that when he did actually hit the board, his darts were HUGE!!! Last but not least we get to Spike. Alas, the big man struggled mightily. Nearly blind from Pink eye and suffering from a massive jump in his blood sugar levels (mid 500's! Near coma) Spike climbed out of his sick bed and squeezed in darts between hospital visits. His play showed it. The good news is that there is no way to go but up! Spike also fell out of the lead in wins. He trails by 3 wins, stuck at 28. But still in second place. All is not lost. But the team can not take another beating like this and hope to take the title. The Mutt was out of town on Christmas break and working the late shift atCambria. He was missed.

2006-12-13T22:16:00.000-08:00

Thank You Hippie Boy!
The young Jerry Garcia wanna be, pulled the 3" Magnums fat out of the fire tonight with smokin' precision and cool, laser guided, smart bomb accuracy. Spike's free fall from the leader board continued with his most dismal showing of the season, it was truly sad and excruciating to watch. It was a good thing that children were not allowed in the Hardtimes Saloon tonight because, 1)the smoke from the cigarettes would have surely stunted their growth, and probably shortened their lives by at least a decade. 2) If the smoke didn't kill them outright, watching Spikes off target throws would have. Totally Pathetic! G-Unit also was stone cold at the start. Actually, The Mutt was struggling mightily also. Jason, the hippie boy was the only thing that kept the boys head above water. Falling behind 5 games to 1, had the boys rolling their eyes and praying, that the agony would end. Possibly the G-Units prayers were answered, or maybe there was just no way that the boys could throw worse that they had. I'm going with the Prayers! The improbable comeback started with a couple of "Hippie Boy", back to back Win's. Then "The Mutt", pulled off the best 3 darts of his young dart career. Trailing the entire game with only bulls to go, Kenny tossed a double, and two single bulls to close them off and allow the G-Unit to close it off for the win! Tying the match at 5 all. The 11th game was a see-saw battle that saw both sides just missing the dart needed to win. Finally the Sexy Bastards team, stopped the bleeding and took the 6-5 lead. The G-unit and Spike anchored the 12th game and in another nip and tuck game, G-Unit finally nailed the bull to end the evening in a 6-6 draw. The 3" Magnums, unbeaten streak in league matches still continues. Eleven weeks and the Mag's have not gone down to defeat yet, but if their play does not improve soon, that day maybe soon upon us. We have one week left before the league takes a 2 week hiatus. On Wednesday night, December 20th the 3" Magnums take on Team Blackout, from the Wilton Bar. The match starts at 8 pm, at the Home of the Mag's, the 209 Bar and Grill. Be sure to be there, it's sure to be a heck of a Christmas Party Celebration!One last thing, The No Smoking Ban starts in Bemidji, on January 1st, Thank God! The Hardtimes tonight was like playing darts in a forest fire. At times the dart board was almost obscured by second hand smoke. Just being in there for 2 hours I'm sure I inhaled a couple of packs. Usually, I have no problem with smoke. But man! I think I have black lung! Sorry no pictures tonight, would not have seen much but clouds of smoke anyways. The groupies did show up later than usual as they took a ladies day out and went to the chick flick "Holidays" which they said was very, very, long. Not sure if that means that the movie was good or bad?That's all for now!I'm off to the hyperbolic chamber so I can cleanse my poor crusted lungs and burning eyes.
Spike and the Mag's!

2006-12-07T01:10:00.000-08:00

It's 3 am and my buzz is wearing off. The 3" Mags played at the 209 Bar and Grill last night against the 3 Bolts and a Washer team from the Turtle Creek Saloon and once again the Magnums came out victorious! In an odd match which found the Mags either floundering or kickin butt, the boys put a 8 to 4 game victory in the books! Jason the "Hippie Boy" Played well, and right now he is on the road to Chicago on a beer run! The captian and leader of the Magnums, The G-Unit himself, Aaron Guthrie played extremely well and just may crack the player of the week roll again, only time will tell. Spike either totally sucked or was unbelievably good, "it was one of those nights" quipped Spike on his way to the bar for another round of the Captian. It seems Spike's concentration wanders at times, especially when the still growing gaggle of groupies bewitches him. The Mutt played on, and on and on!!! "I swear that the bullseye get smaller with each passing beer!" Mutt was heard muttering with a sad shake of his head. "School, darts, beer and sex. What's a guy to do! I need rest!" Poor Mutt, poor Mutt.
Next week(Dec. 13) the 3" Magnums hit the road and play away from the home confines of the 209, They travel just down the street to the Hardtimes Saloon, where they will take on the "Sexy Bastards" in what is sure to be a no holds barred, free for all, dart battle for the ages! It all starts at 8 pm. Mark it on the calandar, rest your liver, ice down your wrist and tan your cleavage! Oh yeah! I hope you enjoyed some of tonights photos!
Time for me to get some sleep! I am outta here!

2006-12-05T17:06:00.000-08:00

2006-12-01T22:40:00.000-08:00

G-Unit has seen enough!
Spike and Marie
These belong to G-Unit!!!
I can not believe you guys are getting beat!!!
What a group!

2006-11-30T21:28:00.000-08:00

Dart League Update
Ok, so first of all, I did not have to work today so the fact that I did not get out of bed today till 2 pm, has no bearing on anything Gander related. Next in reality, I was NOT in that bad of shape for the shape I was in. Some WERE scheduled to work Thursday and I had very little bearing in the fact that they did OR did not make it to said work. Yes my dart play, suffered a bit, as I dropped not only from the top 10, league wise, but also out of the team lead as "Hippie Boy"Jason has over taken me. NOT GOOD! Add this to the fact that the 3" Magnums were taken to the edge of getting our first ASS whooping at the hands of 4 women who make up the Bare Beavers team from the Legion in Bemidji! We came out of the fray tied in match play 6-6 and still in first place in the league by 3 games with 73 victories, but we were expecting to take a few more games, and we had to work just to get the 6 we did! Spike still leads the league with 22 victories so not all is lost. The cool part is the fact that Shane Powell came back from Iraq on leave so we had a special guest and his wife as leaders for our fan club, which numbered over 20 members last night. I feel terrible that we played like we did in front of our loyal gang of groupies. Shane and Marie Rock! As do all of our great fans! Just check out the Pix's and you will see why!! Next week, I will do better AND I obviously will curtail the alcohol intake! For those who were there and for my personal Designated Driver, I and the entire 3" Magnum team, Thanks you for your support! Next week we play My next door neighbor, Jim Paitz and his team from the Turtle Creek Saloon, called the 3 Bolts and a Washer, at the 209 Bar and Grill in beautiful downtown Bemidji, Wednesday night the 6th of December at 8 pm. Be there or be a loser!
This goes out to the G-Unit, it's not easy hanging with the man is it? Good thing there is a dialysis center in town!!!
Spike

2006-11-23T13:38:00.000-08:00

Happy Holiday! I am at this very moment, Draining the lower units of the Warrior outboards, having already pulled the plugs and fogged the 175 as well as the 9.9! Oh yeah, I am also doing laundry, 3 loads, and have reservations at North Woods Steakhouse for aTurkey dinner and finally possible a movie, perhaps the new Bond flick?
So here we go. Last night was kind of a different evening for the 3" Magnum Dart Team. With the Holiday upon us, our fine bevy of spectacular babe's, were out of town with family and friends. This left the boys somewhat subdued. Spike used to being ah....without, was fine, and his style of play reflected it, as he won 3 straight games and eventually led the Mag's to a10-2 series win over the Odd Couple team from Dales Bar. However, Poor Mutt, how lost he looked without his Lovely Lisa! In some games it was lucky if his darts even hit the board! Lisa, I blame you! This poor man was a basket case!! His Beard shaved off, his tail dragging, no spring in his step, maybe to much lead in his pencil?? Lisa, you can not leave Mutt to go home on Dart night ever again. The Team has voted and this is now law! Now, Jason "Hippie Boy" dressed in his new jeans (without the customary knee display) dart play was outstanding!! In a very business like manner he disposed of the opponents with ease. In fact, I'm not sure how we managed to lose 2 games during the match.But as our motto says "Greed Bad, Boob Feeling Good" Oops, back to Jason, his dart playing may have led oneto believe that all was well but, there just was notthe gleam in his eye nor the smile on his face without the "Juke Box Queen" Darcy in the house! Now to theG-Unit, with Katie closing down the shop and therefor not able to be by her man's side. Aaron bucked up and his play was solid as a Captain's play should. But then he knew that Katie would be there in time, and his ride home would be secure. The party continued on into the night.
For those who had not looked at the northernamusement.com website I just wanted you all to know that the 3" Magnums have taken over sole command of 1st place in the NW Funtime League standings and with our 10 games won last night leaves us with a record of 67 Wins and 29 losses! Also Kenny "The Mutt" was last weeks Player of the week with a 2.67 scoring average! AWESOME MUTT!!! Next week we face the Bare Beavers team at he Bemidji Legion. Game time is at 8 pm. If you can make it stop on by. As always we hope to see you there!

2006-11-20T21:35:00.000-08:00

"The Mutt!" & A Big Mutt Fan!

Damn! ^ Jason & Darcy!

Pictures from The 3" Magnums Victory Party and Fan Club Meet & Greet At Slims Bar! Player of the Week Kenny "The Mutt" is highlighted in these Pictures doing celebratory Body Shots!

2006-11-16T08:25:00.000-08:00

WOW!
All I can say is WOW! I shit you not! WOW! Tonight the 3" Magnums played the team called Slim Pickens at Slim's Bar in beautiful Bemidji, and it was one for the ages! If you have not been to Slims it is a quaint log cabin bar, not large by any means but the kind of bar that a guy would love to own or be called a regular. On this night Slim's was packed with some of the finest looking women in all the land, and many were there to follow the the exploits of one of the finest dart teams in all the land, the 3" Magnums. Tonight the Mags, did not disapoint their legion off fans. The night belonged to "The Mutt." Kenny was unstopable! It got to the point that during one game as I looked on I wrote down some of the quotes that were thrown out by the crowd, as well as words spoken between team mates, The "G-Unit" and "The Mutt"themselves. As Kenny lit up the night sky with unbelievable dart pyrotechnic's it was determined that his accuracy was due to his having sex before 2 pm rather than after. Or in exact words, "Sex before 2,"Good" and Sex after 2, "Not Good!" Also as A. G. was having trouble closing down the 16's, it was determined that it was just like his high school years when he evidently had problems tapping the 16's also. "The Mutt is no stray tonight!" and "Guthrie gets Pink!" Folks let me tell ya "Kenny the Mutt" was unstoppable and on his shoulders the 3" Mags cruised to a 9 to 3 win. I believe that Kenny is going to be close to being the player of the week, for his effort tonight. I am going to have to figure out a way to get on the web to see the results tomorrow night!. Aaron Guthrie and myself anchored the twelvth game andI believe that Aaron and Katie had some thing mighty big planned, as The "G-Unit did not fool around and we flew out to a huge lead and he ended up scoring a season high of 4.3 marks per round to show the demoralized Slim Pickens team just who was the better team on this night. Jason was his dependable self and all in all it was a good showing by the boys from the"209" Coming into tonights match the Magnums were alone in 3rd place, 3 games out of second. Time will tell as to whether we gained any ground on the leaders, but it wasn't for lack of trying. Realistically we had an excellent chance of running the table or at least go 11-1 but greed is not as good as "boob feeling", so we will take our 9 wins and prepare for next week, where we will play back at home at the 209 Bar and Grill. Where we will try to keep the dream alive against the The Odd Couple team, from Dales Bar and Grill. If your able, be sure to join us at the 209 in downtown Bemidji to cheer on your favorite dart men or at least check out the bevy of beautiful ladies who seem to appear from out of nowhere when the 3" Magnums take the floor. You think i'm kidding? Then checkout the attached pix from tonights match! Have a great week and may all your Bulls be doubles!
Spike, Jason, Aaron and Kenny and our lovely groupies!

2006-11-13T21:56:00.000-08:00

Hey Gang! Wednesday after Darts, I will be heading to The Deer Shak in the Knife Lake area to give it one one last try for the Big Buck, or even a tasty Doe! For a couple of Days worth of tree stand sittin! At least I will be in Rogers Stand as he is out in Washington State hanging with the little sister and my Mom. So I get the primo big man stand with prime vision and shooting lanes. So I may be able to release those nosler partition's at freezer fare. After this stint on the tree stand I will be heading down to Gaylord to rescue Big Al and Corey from almost certain Marriage. Off we go to hunt with Jeff and Dean down in Rochester for a couple of Giant Canada Geese. We will be hunting Sat. and Sun. I can not wait as I will be able to spend some time with the lovely Miss Katie Edens in her home town!! The Boys are dying to meet her and I am counting the minutes myself. After the hunt I will be heading back to the house in South Haven to see my Grand Mother and Mom and Dad as they will be arriving home early Sunday morning via Amtrack from Yakima. Can not wait to hear about their trip as I have always wanted to take the train West but have as of yet not been able to do it. Then back to Bemidji for the Christmas Push! The next trip will be the first week of January. But I am not sure just where it will be? If you have any suggestions please feel free to put in your comments. I am listening and open to most anything.
Picture's soon to come as Today I received my Camera back from repair!

See Ya!

2006-11-09T22:07:00.000-08:00

3" Magnum Dart Team Update 11-08-06

Wow! The 3" Magnums battled the 2nd place Alcoholic's International squad from The Garden Bar and Grill to a hard fought draw, 6-6. The Home team rattled off 2 quick games to open the fray, but the Garden came alive and stormed back to a 4 to 2 advantage. It was a see/saw battle with tight games and blow outs. Spike and The G-Unit took a hotly contested game 12, to knot the battle at 6 all, and ended the night with a tough but satisfying draw. The Garden Grill was by far the toughest team the Mag's have faced this season and they held their own. "I saw the best dart man I have ever played against in Corbin Finley" said Spike, talking about the number 2 ranked player in the NW Funtime League. Who tallied Triple after Triple during the matches. The Duo of Jason and Spike had 2 especially thrilling games, where a single dart was the difference between the joy of victory or the agony of defeat! "We definitely did not play up to our potential" said 3" Magnum Captain Aaron "G-Unit" Guthrie "But we will take the draw and keep trying to improve our play." The match was played before a standing room only crowd. The management of the 209 bar was all smiles as the fan base that is now following the Mags, is approaching legendary status. Without a doubt there was more fine young ladies crowding the dart arena than ever before, and it just may have played into the lack of concentration displayed by both teams. The screams and sighs coming from the coed crowd was bringing the tension to an all time high! As the fans chanted "Mutt, Mutt, Mutt" and "Spike, Spike, Spike",the clamour was palpable and with the enticements set by the lovely Lisa, winning a motorboat took on a whole new meaning. I'm sure Spike is at home practicing for next week as this report goes to press. Spike, possibly fell even lower in the league standings with his spotty play during this match so it will be interesting to see how his team leading numbers fare? Did Jason "Hippie Boy" take over the team leadership or did the "G-Unit" wrest the lead from them both? Check it out Tomorrow night at www.northernamusement.com under NW Funtime Cricket Standings to see the results! The 3" Magnums would like to thank their growing faithful following for their support, especially Katie, Lisa, Kari, Tanya and Darcy the "Jukebox Queen!Rock on Gals!! Next week the 3" Magnums travel to Slims Bar onWednesday to play the "Slim Pickins" Team. Be sure to get there early as Slims is not a large venue, and it could be difficult to accommodate all of our supporters!! We hope to see you all there!!!

2006-11-01T22:33:00.000-08:00

Thursday Night Dart League 11-01-06

Well, The 3" Magnums took on the THATABOYS from the Git'r Done Saloon from Wilton and due to Sparkling play of Jason Rylander, the 3" Mags were victorious! Posting a 8 games to 4 win. The team played through some trying tosses and even though the team has not put it all together as of yet, the victory over the highly competitive THATABOYS quad was a tremendous win for the lads. The bulls eye play has greatly improved and with Spike's 3 wins tonight, he keeps his team lead in that department. The boys on the Mag's are playing pretty close to each other in the marks department and it will be interesting to see tomorrow if Spike keeps his slight team lead. It will be real close! The AWESOME Legions of 3" Mag fans and followers were in fine form tonight, as the Bar 209 had to call in more help to keep the beer and cocktails flowing smoothly. All I can say as a team member is WOW!!! Sometimes it is hard to keep your concentration when the groupies unite in their finery! I highly encourage all of you fence sitters to get out to our next match and be a part of the fun! Kenny "The Mutt", "G-Unit", "Hippie Boy" and yours truly hope to see you all at the next match! I'm not sure who we play, but whoever it is will surely feel the 3" Magnum experience! That folks is HOW WE ROLL!!!Catch up on the Standings Thursday night at www.northernamusement.com and don't forget to get out and show your team spirit!! Come on out to our next match!!
Spike

2006-10-25T21:40:00.000-07:00

The 3" Magnums

Howdy everyone!I know how you all try to live vicariously through me. So, I figured that I'd let you into my Wednesday nights for your enjoyment. The best part is that you don't even have to deal with the hangovers!!The Dart Team is named "The 3" Magnums" (don't read anything into that) We play every Wednesday at various bars around the Bemidji area. We play in the Funtime NW Cricket League and you can catch our scores and such at the following website:www.northernamusement.com So far we have been doing pretty well. Let me tell you about our team. The 3" Magnums are comprised of 2 dart league veterans and 2 rookies. First our Captain and team leader, Aaron "G-Unit" Guthrie a solid veteran of the dart wars, Aaron has shifted his game to the Bemidji area because he is now married and his lovely wife, Katie, can keep tabs on him easier as he will be"Playing" closer to home. While his dart play has not been up to his standards as of yet, they are improving and Aaron does lead or team in a very important stat, Most Times Driven Home From The Bar on League Nights. Or, MTDHFBLN average. Aaron is .500 after 4 matches!!! AWESOME! Our other Veteran is Jason Rylander, Jason is known for his Spiffy Budweiser Darts, his hippie music leanings and his groupie popularity! Jason has been a bartender in just about every bar in Bemidji, and now works Part time at Gander Mountain and Full Time at Big North Beverage Distribution. Where he is the import beer and sport drink rep. If your at an establishment and realize that the Grateful Dead or Alice's Restaurant has been playing for at least 2 hours straight, then you know that Jason is there. Next on our tour, is our Bullseye leader, and fellow league rookie, Kenny "The Mutt" Mutzke. Kenny hails from LeSuer Minnesota and he is a stellar student atBSU, except on Thursdays when he is dealing with trying to find his or the "G-Units" car, or paying city of Bemidji parking tickets. As well as a killer hangover. Kenny is a bar patrons dart league friend, as his out going personality and his BSU student status, allows the 3" Magnums, to have the BEST Dart Groupie following in the whole league. SWEET!This leaves yours truly, Mike "Spike" Miller, as with Kenny "The Mutt" this is Spikes first foray into league darts and with some skill and lots of luck, along with vast amounts of Captain Morgan and Mich. Golden Light, Spike has entered this week as the 3"Magnums top winner and scorer. It has been a verylong time since Spike has lead any league in Scoring;) Amen brother! Spikes trademark dart entrance is getting to be well known as the echos of Buck Cherry's"Crazy Bitch" announce his arrival onto the scene! We also have a true Ladies man as our super sub, Aaron Schmitz, we really do not know his dart abilities as he is yet to be pressed into service, but his value at Groupie Attracting is legendary! This Wednesday even though the schedule says that it is a bye week. The 3" Mags will be traveling to The Other Place Bar in Turtle Creek, Matches start at 8pm. If you are in the area, stop in and support your favorite dart men. Join the fun, Join the Party and if your female and like your men slightly strange, join our Groupie Throng! **NOTE To Mrs. Guthrie thatThrong, NOT Thong!

2006-10-22T18:54:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! BIG NEWS!! If you recognize the man in the Picture , he needs no introduction. If You do not recognize him he is nonother that my oldest friend in the whole world Allen Hoppe of my home town, Gaylord Minnesota. Now Al and I have been pals for longer than many of you have been alive and we have hunted and fished this country from one side to the other. We have seen the bottom of many a bottle also. (of course this was in our younger wilder days) We have had great times together and there will many more to come, but let me get to the point of this post. AL HOPPE IS ENGAGED!!!!! TO BE MARRIED!!!!! WTF!! It is true. I heard it from the man himself. He got down one one knee and asked Kathy Hahn, whom he graduated high school with to marry him and she said YES!
twenty years ago Al, Smitty and I made a pact or a wager that the first one to get married between us the other two had to pitch in and ??????? We obviously should have written it down and given it to a lawyer as it was so long ago that we have forgotten what the pay off was!!! Its been so long that frankly we just figured that we would just never have to pay for whatever it was we bet. If anyone can remember what it was because it was a big deal back then please let us know. Otherwise we will be getting together to negotiate a settlement soon. (Although no date has been set as of yet so we still have some time Smitty)

Anyways,

Congratulations, Al and Kathy!!!

2006-10-04T23:03:00.000-07:00

Here are some more pictures of the North Dakota Waterfowl Opener. Enjoy!

Hey Keds, you are the apple of my eye and I miss you tons! I hope all is well and the kids are not driving you up a wall. I played in my first League match tonight. I did ok and we won 8 games to 4 so our team is undefeated and we look pretty good at times. I have never played competitive darts so I guess I'm old now. It's official. 6 weeks and 2 days!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Happy Birthday by the way!! I hope you and your family have something HUGE planned! Just wish that I could be there.
On a sad note, please everyone, keep my Grandmother Bea in your prayers as she is in tough shape and currently in the hospital in Buffalo, MN. My mom is taking it hard as will I someday. My Grandmother is a wonderful woman, and a true blue friend. I Do not want her to suffer but in my own selfish way want her to stay with me forever. There has been so many memories and all of them good. I love her with all my breaking heart and wish I could do more, age sucks, and that is no lie.

Spike

2006-10-04T22:54:00.000-07:00

Cando, North Dakota. Nuff Said.

2006-09-26T20:30:00.000-07:00

Upper Left: Spike and Bill, Like it should be.

Upper Right: Rogers Pothole in Cando with a shitload of Snows and Blues and Canada Geese checking it out!

Left: Little Sister Michelle "The Duck Carrier!"

Yep, It is time! The yearly trip to Cando North Dakota is nearly upon us. Fall has struck like Joe Mauer turning on a floating slider, and before the sunsets Friday I will be in the a state of euphoria that will not end til mid November.

We are taking a couple of new party members with us this year Paul "Nipper" Nistler and Bryan "Beef" Sathre. Man, I love taking newbys to the Wagon Wheel, Where by the way I AM KING!

I am also reaching back into my past and bringing my old gal along. Smooth and tight, I was caressing her just the other night. The smoothness of her lines and the sweet smell of leather and #9! You just have to love her. Believe me when I tell you that I will savour holding her in my hands again. Sliding her action back with my fingers and pushing that little button that slides her shut with a pop!

Man, I love that Gun. Old Man Browning knew what he was doing when he made the A-5!!!

You Guys are Sick!

Ducks, Geese, Sandhills and to Top it off I got a Swan Permit in the lottery! What the HELL do you do with a Swan? I have no Idea but it would be really cool to watch it hit the Ground! or water!! How about Swan for Thanksgiving? Christmas?? Who gets the neck?

So Long for now.

Spike

2006-09-13T19:01:00.000-07:00

OK, I'll start this post out with a Joke, An angry wife met her husband at the door. He smelled of booze and perfume. "I assume" she snarled, "that there's a very good reason for your waltzing in here at six o'clock in the morning with liqour on your breath and lipstick on your collar?"
"There is" he replied. "I'd like breakfast!"

So now that that's done. How have you all been? Not a whole lot going on here! I went to South Haven Labor day weekend and got rained on and outfished by Smitty, on my own turf! 18 to 3! That's not merely out fished, that is an old fashioned ASS kickin.' Well, Smitty, Brian and Jon are coming up to Bemidji this weekend and I am ready to exact revenge. I am a little worried as to the access ramp on Big and Plantan. as I hear that they are in dire need of rain. We may be restricted to Bemidji but that should be OK as it has been quite good lately for Muskie which is this weekends target fish. Although the walleye bite is still going, just not as hot and heavy as it once was. Dad was up last week and I took him and Nipper out and we did pretty well as I had 8 fish to clean and we lost a few as well. I lost a very nice 'eye right at the net that was in the 25" to 26" range. But I would really like to hammer a nice Muskie this weekend. But would also just like to have one of the guys see or take a fish. Especially Brian who has been through a lot this summer. He deserves a Fish!!
This post is really a shout out to a very special person in my life and I want her to know that I really do miss her and hope that she is enjoying her time away from me. I know, all you gals are wondering just who in the hell am I talking about, but well lets just say, that I can not wait for the next 9 1/2 weeks to pass! Goose hunting holds special meaning to me this year!
Next, My MOM made me killer Potato Salad and sent it up to Bemidji with Dad and I ate a bunch of it tonight. Damn my Mom Rocks!! She is truely a SAINT! Those who know my Dad know that this must be true!!
Next, The Vikings Win? On the road? What the heck? How can this be? Suspending your starting Safety for Having Sex with a Wisconsin woman in a bar room stairwell? In his place start a rookie? This is surely not a Mike Tice led Team! The starved for talent Packers sign Koren Robinson. I wonder how fast he drove to Green Bay? and what was he drinking or better yet what was the Packers front office drinking???
Now the Twins, Justin M. you big Puss, what the hell were you thinking?? You are 6'4" and WHITE! You can not run! You have no speed! Why you trying to turn a ground ball single into a double. Ah well, 1 game does not a season make, but fuck dude! That was big!!! And the pirahna's looked like neon tetras today! Francisco, it was nice while it lasted. Keep the faith Twins fans, I'd still rather be backing the Twins than the Sinking ship called the Tigers. I still believe that the Sox and A.J. will win the division but still have hopes of the lovableTwins taking the Wildcard with the Tigers left wondering what if!
KEEP the faith Gang! Best wishes to all of ya! Smell the RBI's!

Spike

2006-08-27T23:42:00.000-07:00

Wow, how time flies. I'm sure that all of the gang who was tuning in are now tuned out. But I will ramble on for just a bit.
So How is your life right now? Do you just sit there and really think about it. Where did yesterdays hopes and dreams go? Are they still around? Tucked deep away in the dark recesses of you mind. I swear, right now I feel fine, but schedule Doctors appointments because when they stick me I know i'm alive. Most days I don't. I slip from one undistingushable day to the next. I do not think that it is ever going to end. When is it to late to reclaim your passion? To grab for it all? Do you finally just take a gamble and face the consequences. I've never been a good loser. I really have had very little experience in it. But lately? Maybe I just need to walk away. Turn my back, toss the phone. What I need is a victory and I need one fast. I am sad, and lost. Yet strangly not really depressed just resigned. Soon I will head to Cando and Then Rollette. The Wagon Wheel always makes me smile and feeling the benelli buck in my hands, the smell of the swamp and the cool damp air always jump starts my heart. Good friends and hunting ducks. If only October lasted all year.
On a brighter note. Last week while out walleye fishing with Hop and Corey, The walleyes were biting and the northern lights were spectacular. The young eaglets in the nest near my home are about to take their first flight, and a mated pair of Osprey have made a nest just a half mile down the road, atop a power pole. The whitetail are active and the young of the year are losing their spots. The walleye bite is as good as it has ever been since I moved here and the muskie are getting more and more active every day. There may be a 50"er in the future. Yeah, Bemidji is a good gig if you can get it.

2006-05-03T18:34:00.000-07:00

Hey Gang!!!

Wow, spent a while at the Doctors office yesterday, More on Friday and more next week. I have needle marks pretty much riddling my body. Feel like I'm sporting a tat but no ink. And topping it all off is this damn weather. Cold, Wet and it Sucks. I have tomorrow off and want to drop the Warrior in the drink to fire it up. Make sure it's ready for the Opener on the 13th. Rain or no rain, its being done on the morrow.

I have to decide just where I want to fish also, there are so many choices. Surely I will make the wrong choice. I am almost out of fish in the freezer and I need a fresh supply, so the pressure is on.

I hope all is well with you all.

later,

Spike

2006-03-26T21:28:00.000-08:00

I can not speak for anyone else but MY BRACKET IS ALL SHOT TO HELL!!! You still have to love March Madness!!

2006-03-24T22:43:00.000-08:00

Wow, How about the Greatest event in sports! The NCAA Basketball Tournament is one of the best 3 weeks of the year!!! The last two Nights have been incredible. UCLA!!! Villanova!!! UCon!!! LSU! George Mason??? Almost every Game is filled with Drama! Seeing Gonzaga's Morrison tearing up with 1.9 seconds left in UCLA's improbable win, was heartbreaking and exhilerating at the same time. Only a person who has tasted bitter defeat can understand. Man, it is just a beautiful thing to watch! I hope the weekend games can match the last two nights, but I do not see how it can.
The Minnesota High School Basketball tournament is also going on and it brings back wonderful memories of dad taking me out of school and joining my cousins Ace and Scott and uncle Noel and heading down to the St. Paul Civic Center to spend a day or two watching the tourney. Those were some great times for me. I hope Scott, Ace and Noel remember them, because I always think of them as I watch the Games. On this years tournament. Isiah Dahlman from Braham is the real deal. He is impressive to see. Michigan State is going to be very happy to have this young man on campus.
The Twins are less than 2 weeks from opening day and The wuss (Justin M.) seems stronger and looks to have put his health problems behind him. His head may be another story. My fingers are crossed. I'm betting that Spiderman will have to toss a couple of lefts at his head before the All Star break! We could sure use a 40 homer guy in the heart of the order.
See Ya
MISSY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2006-03-17T14:22:00.000-08:00

"Puck"
I had to take a few days to think about this post, and talk about my friend Kirby Puckett. Like most men/boys who came of age in the 80's. Kirby Pucketts name meant baseball and the Minnesota Twins. As a young man who had grown up in Minnesota and who was born the same year that the Twins moved from Washington DC to Bloomington. I was and still am a Twins fan. I remember sitting at my grandpa Gherkes, in Stewart, watching Halsey Hall, do the broadcasts and the Hamm's Beer commercials and the "Killer", George Mitterwald, Phil Roof, Tony Oliva, Ceasar Tovar, Rod Carew and the like. I grew to intensely dislike Calvin Griffith for allowing my favorites to move on to other teams because of his tight fisted ways. I still remember how hurt I was when Calvin would not sign Harmon to his last one year deal. To see Harmon Killabrew in a Royals uniform was humiliating to me! I was just a teenager, but I remember it like it was yesterday.
Every Fourth of July I went with Elroy and Mark and Al and Jon to Bat Day, at the Met, But not after that season. My heart was broken. I was busy enough by then, Sports, working the summers, Picking Peas. Those long, long hours on the tractor at night, just me and the crew and the skeeters. I found myself drawn back into baseball, listening to Herb Carneal and the Twins, and then the late night KMOX, and the Cardinals games on the left coast. I found myself lost in the Mike Cubbage, Bombo Rivera Twins, losers that they were. You took each victory to heart and just shook your head at each defeat. There were many defeats. Soon, I was in school and girls and work in the cities. I took in more games, sitting in the cheap, shitty seats up in right field stands. Where if a fly ball was hit to right, you had to wait for fan reaction to know if the ball was caught or not. (it's still that way today) I lived through the sad 100 loss seasons of the early 80's. Then, I saw what was the start of the turnaround. I watched as Herbie, The Rat, Bruno (little bingo), Frankie V, Gags, Lauds and the rest came together. Then came the missing piece to the puzzle. The stubby legs the smile and the swing of Kirby Puckett. The swing, it was remarkable. Puck had remarkable eyesight and hand eye coordination. It did not seem to matter as to where the ball was thrown. Low, High, inside or out, his big ass bat could find it. He swung a mighty big bat. Much larger than I ever did or would have. I watched as the Twins actually contended in 85, only to blow a 10-0 lead at Cleveland on the last weekend of the season to fall out of the race. 86 was a fiasco for the team as they were expected to contend but fell to last place.
In 1986 some thing happened to me that led to my friendship with the man. In 1986 I was working at Burger Brothers Sporting Goods in Edina and one day a guy named Tim who was from Iowa came in and talked fishing. He lamented as to how his job left him little time to go fishing and he wished he had more time to go. I offered him a chance to go out to Minnetonka for a short outing and he accepted. Tim met me at the Wayzata ramp and we went Bass fishing for a few hours as he had to be at work at 1pm. When we went back to the ramp, he thanked me for taking him, and as he helped load the Lund. I asked him where he worked as he had to report for 2nd shift, was he a machinist at a local manufacture? He laughed and told me was the catcher for the Twins!! Damn! That was the start.
In 1987 I went to Guide in Alaska, for Bristol Bay Lodge. During the Season Tim and various members of the Twins sent me letters about their season. Stories of cities and games and players and movies and plane rides from hell. I mailed them letters back, stories about Fish, and Bears and Boat rides from hell. Fishermen, good and poor, famous and not. I listened to armed forces radio to the all star game, the only one Tim Laudner played in. (he doubled) while I was on the Nushagak at the King Salmon Spike Camp. I sent them a box of Salmon delivered to the clubhouse by a lodge guest from Minnetonka. They sent me Team pennants to decorate my camp.
I flew home from Alaska the day that The Twins started the playoffs vs. the Tigers. It was a memorable week. I returned home to find my girlfriend of 6 years, had taken up with her photographer or hairdresser (or both) After receiving stacks of letters right up to the last week from her. Wham, That kind of threw me for a loop. (my friends all told me that she was to good looking for me anyways) Thanks to Smitty, the Twins and one month of Goose hunting at Lac Que Parle, I survived. (I purged a lot of rage, pulling the trigger on geese)
Smitty and I rented a Hotel Room in Montevideo so we could watch Game 7. Smitty fell asleep! I screamed when Gags scored, and took a late night hot tub and sauna after the game and cried alone, tears of joy.
I started working for Orvis in the conservatory in downtown Minneapolis that fall after duck hunting ended. It was there that I met Dick Martin. For those who have never met Dick, well he is about the nicest man you could ever meet, ever. Dick was the Trainer for the Twins for many years. About 30 some. He was/is also a fishing Guide in the off season in Melbourne Florida. He is a very good fly fisherman. Since the Orvis store was just a few blocks from the dome, Dick came in quite a bit and we became friends. He would have a ticket set aside for me from time to time, and I went to a lot of games.
After the 1988 Alaskan season, I moved to Florida for a while to get warm and fish some different water. I went to Spring Training and saw Tim and Dick. I accepted an offer from Orvis to manage a shop in Chagrin Falls Ohio. When the Twins came to town to play the Indians I was there and I saw Tim during pre-game. Surprised the heck out of him and watched the game.
When the Twins came back into town later that summer I called Dick to see if he wanted to come out to the Pine Lake Fly Club, where I also managed a small fly fishing pro shop, during their off day. Their off day was a Monday and as the club was closed on Mondays, I told them it would be a perfect time, as it would be quiet and to one but me and the grounds crew would be around to hassle any player who wanted to come along.
It was a rainy Monday morning when the rental car pulled in and Dick, Doug Nelson assistant trainer, Kent Hrbck and Kirby Puckett stepped out. Holy Shit!! They caught many, many Trout. Dick helped out Doug, Herbie needed no help, and took off on his own. But Puck, he was hopeless with a fly rod, so I gave him a spinning rod and he was hopeless with that also. So I got him Spin casting rig armed with a little Mepps, he went to work. He caught some trees and he caught some rocks, he even caught a fence. He also caught some Trout! I spent most of the day giving him a hand on the water. We talked a lot, I’ve been known to be quite talkative. I was not even close to being able to keep up with Puck. We talked about growing up, him in Chicago, me in Gaylord. We talked about our families, his large, mine medium. Our parents. Minnesota, fishing, and baseball. Lots of things. I noticed that I was taking all of his fish off the hook, and it was time for him to pick up the slack. I showed him how to hold the fish and remove the hook. I gave him my forceps, and left to see how the others were faring. When I came back, Puck was not wearing his shirt? What the? Here it turns out that he was not enjoying holding the fish, and when he caught one, he took off his shirt and wrapped it around the fish to hold it and then removed the hook! Unwrapped the fish and put it back in the water! Since his shirt was wet and covered in fish slime, he did not want to put it back on. We walked back to the shop and I got him a new shirt. The ground crew still remembers the sight of the half naked Puck, strolling around the Pine Lake club fishing away, laughing and smiling having a good old time. When they left Herbie and Puck signed and posed for the crew. Puck told me later that it was his first time he ever went fishing. He always thanked me for it. I always told him that It was my pleasure. I will never forget the day I met Kirby Puckett.
In the years that followed I was fortunate to hang out with Kirby at his home in Edina, where we played pool and shot hoops, and enjoyed a beer or 2. We talked to each other on the phone, and hung out with our mutual friends. Randy Angel and Joe Rassat.
Kirby was one of the most fun guys I’ve ever had the privilege to hang with, and everyone who ever met him, I suspect would say the same. I am proud to be able to say that Puck was a friend of mine. It hurts my heart knowing I will not be hearing his hysterical cackle of a laugh or see his smile. Nor, will we be able to drink a beer while relaxing in a boat. But, I will always remember our friendship.
Many of you, who are my friends have been with me in the clubhouse and met Kirby, he always treated my friends as his. I am happy with those memories the most. Puck and my Dad and Tom Kelly talking baseball, in the Twins Clubhouse will always be a stunning memory of mine. Being able to introduce my uncle Noel Phifer to Kirby is another. All of my friends who made the trip down the tunnel, deep with-in the Metro Dome, know how excited he was to show the picture of me, Puck kept in his locker, and how proud I was for it to be there. He was one of a kind. I will miss him. Every time I crawl into the boat and turn on the game I will think of him. God Bless you Puck.
You know, Puck man, I love you man!

2006-03-01T16:59:00.000-08:00

I wanted to post a picture but this damn thing won't let me so WTF!!! I'm about to tune in to Idol and since its guy night its just me and that tea.... Its snowing again and its getting me down as i'm ready for this crap to be over. I'm setting up an early spring trip up to the Rainy River, to try for a Walleye or two and possibly bust my cherry on Sturgeon. Yeah freeze my ass, looking for a prehistoric fish!!! Oh well, what ya going to do. Hey King of Schrubs, new powder up here to play on!!!!!! Lots of Ice!!!!!! I just heard of a drunk from Danube killing a fellow snowmobiler this past weekend. Head On. .254 Drunk walked away. Sober cashed in his chips.... Life sucks.
Adios
Spike

2006-02-21T20:26:00.000-08:00

For those worried about me and why I have not been on the blog as of late, here is what I've been up to lately.
Drove to Austin, drove to St.Paul, Brewed Beer!, drove to Minnetonka, Drove to Austin, drove to Bemidji. Worked. Drove to Austin, Drove to Minnetonka, Drove to St. Paul, Bottled Beer! Drove to Minnetonka, drove to Gaylord picked up Mouse burgers and smoked Pheasants and a Domestic Duck and drank a beer, Drove to South Haven (Family visit) ATE CAKE. Drove to Minnetonka, Drove to Bemidji, Slept. Work.
May the Good Luck Monkey smile upon you!!!

Love to you all!

2006-01-30T20:00:00.000-08:00

Gander Christmas Party 2005-06

Well, Last night was the Company Christmas Party and a good time was had by all! Tonya and her Merry Gang of Merry Makers did a wonderful job decorating the Git-R-Dun dining area. It was mini Las Vegas night and we had Black Jack Tables and Casino Decorations all over! There were many Prizes and lots of good fellowship! The meal was very good and my Kudo's to the chef for the Beef, as it was truely tasty!! I said a few brief word of thanks to the crew, whom in my humble opinion did a terrific job this year, under less than optimal conditions. Every day I find myself lucky to be in their company, It may sound silly and a bit of a put on, but I do appreciate their effort on my and the stores behalf and am grateful for their help and hard work. I just wanted them to all know that my sincere thanks were heart felt. Thank you gang for a great year and here's to many more!!!!

2006-01-28T20:49:00.000-08:00

What The .........?

Hey there boys and Girls. So by now I bet you all are wondering just what the heck I've been up to, Right? Well the answer is mostly work with a few inspired moments of more work. I did however make a quick trip to shoot and holler, Thursday night arrived about 1:30 AM Some quick sleep and a little visiting with my Grandma then off to the Albertville mall and the tall and fat store. Then off to St. Cloud and Red Lobster! $35 bucks later and I'm off to best buy, Damn, I gotta get one of those big TV's. I looked at a huge HDTV by Sony, about $4700. But Dang!!! Looked like 3D I had to touch the screen. It looked like I couldtouch the grass on the football field. Some Day. I even dream'tabout it last night. That's what My life has come down to. Pretty sad, or pretty good. Depends on one's outlook.
I actually was in St. Cloud to support my little fishin' buddy Nick Kiekenapp whose band "The B Team All Stars" Had their CD release Party at the Holy Angels Art Center. Their CD labeled "Went to the City" hit the racks today and they performed the disc tracks live and followed with 3 encores to a raucous crowd, dancing in the isles and teenage girls piercing screams. Man, I remember Nick's Guitar being taller than he was! Now he's got his learners permit and blazes riffs that make the little girls scream. I was glad to be invited and will happily accept the job offered as Groupie Sorter for their soon to be up coming tour! (I hope that there is a cool T-shirt I get to wear!) The drive home was long after the gig, but I was pretty jazzed,and had the lead foot so it went by pretty quickly.
On a different note, my left knee is once again deciding to let me know it needs attention. I can not for much longer ignore the bone on bone grating. I could if I did not have to navigate stairs. Not so bad going up, but going down, well its not pretty. After we have slipped the bonds of winter and Ice covered lots, it will be time to see if a scope can fix or replacement is needed.
Enough of that! This warm weather is teasing me,as I just know that February in Bemidji will surely be a ball buster. No matter, every day makes us closer to Spring!!! I am pretty bored with life at the moment and am at a loss as to what to do about it. "Road Trip"? Hibernate? Stay Tuned, there may be news upcoming!!
The Gander Mountain stores Christmas Party is taking place Tommorrow night. At the Git-R-Done saloon in Wilton, Mn. It should be a good time, Karl is on Vacation, and It's up to me to be responseable. Which you all know is my middle name. Keep the kiddies clear of the beer and gals from cat fighting, should be easy since "Hollywood"is not going to be there, I may have to work that fact into my monolog.
You Know Man! Just Living the Dream!
Spike

2006-01-12T18:55:00.000-08:00

"The Hunt"

First off. I typed about an hour with great prose and panache a blow by blow account of my Reelfoot Lake hunt only for blogspot to take a dump on me and I lost it all. Sum beach!
Now I have lost my interest for it. I know you have been looking for it so I will attempt to continue it this weekend!
Right now I'm going uptown to get a web microphone. Seems like it is the thing to have. For this MSN messenger thing.
Since I have just installed a web cam, so people can look at me. Why I can't even guess? Just must be a good laugh?
For those interested in the hunt, here is the short version. I had alot of fun and it was good to hand out with dad and the gang. We shot about 35 ducks and should have shot many more.
I learned alot on this trip like all these items.
1. 5 gallon pails are of great value
2. Eagles love to eat dead mallards
3. Beloit wisconsin is full of young teenage sluts!
4. don't go to sleep during the BCS championship game
5. Order Ribs at a BBQ Shack.

More later

Spike

2006-01-09T21:30:00.000-08:00

Middle: The leader Before the "Pail"!
Bottom: The leader on the "Pail"
Top: The Leader after the "Pail"

"Spike take me to the bucket" has a whole new meaning!!!!

You gotta Love This Guy!!

"The first time in 40 years of guiding that I've seen that!" "Now somebody Kill Me" Jamie Hamilton II, BJP Guide

2006-01-09T21:22:00.000-08:00

1.Pictures of the hunt! The Crew with our harvest. 2. The Leader! 3. Spike & a Drake 4. Corey, Smitty and Toby in the Taj!

2006-01-09T20:03:00.000-08:00

Black Jack Pocket Hunting Club

Well, I just got back home from my last Vacation of 2005, even though it happened in 2006. Where do I begin, I left Shoot n' Holler, South Haven, at about 7pm on Tuesday Jan 3rd. Corey had made the trip to Rogers from Gaylord and upon loading the dodge van we headed off to Edina and the Big Smitty residence. We arrived there at 8 something, loading quickly and headed toward, Menominee Wisconnie, to meet the last member of our party Toby Schoepke. We beat Toby to the Green Mill, beer and tea flowed and Spike got behind the wheel and 8-9 hours later, we were in Salem Ill. I turned the keys over to Roger and he drove us to Pahduka KY. Oops, I forgot a trip highlight. Our traveling band of waterfowl warriors ran amuck of a gaggle of teenage hussies at the Beloit WS, fuel stop. Big Al Hoppe's words of wonder came to me, as I watched with amazement the fine sight before my eyes. "The world is full of sluts and I can't find even one!" Well Al, they are in Beloit, WS. Hanging out at the Gas Stop/Taco Bell. :>)
AAA Trip Tix routed us through rural KY and western TN, on what was not much more than a cattle trail. But the true South experience was all around us! Front Porch sittin! Hound Dog Pettin' Tobacco dryin' Americana and we were smack dab in the middle of it. Corey was drooling in his slumber as he dreamed about deep fried okra, and biskets and gravy! Soon we were in Lassiter Corner TN, which I guess you could call a suburb of Horn Beak. I found a gas station in Lassiters Corner that sold Coca-cola in Glass Bottles! Awesome!!!!! We were just minutes from our destination of Black Jack Pocket Hunting Lodge. But we were way early! It was before noon and check in was not untill 4pm so off to the local BBQ Joint "Boyettes" for a couple of Bud Lites and then a sight seeing trip around Reelfoot Lake. Smitty at the wheel! We went to the State Park Observatory and of course promptly lost a tire to a blowout! 2 cars stopped to ask if they could help, Southern hospitality! The donut on, we drove into Tiptonville to the tire shop. Alas, no tire for us. I was dropped of at the lodge to wait for the guides and the rest of the merry band went off into the Tennesee evening in search of a tire or two. Little did I know that the guides would arrive just minutes later to show me our rooms and give me a tour of the place. It was great. 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, full kitchen, washer & Dryer, deck complete with grills and all only 20' from the Lake! As I stood on the deck/dock I watched Mallard after Mallard land right next to me. Just breezing through the cedars. Man, I was ready!
Now, where was the rest of our merry band? Well, they found a tire place just down the road where Roger set to haggle the owner for a "Price" on a couple of radials. The guy tells the great haggler to go to his truck and get his bottle out of the door panel and let them sit down to a good "Haggle"!! Well our fearless leader got his price after a couple of chugs, although he ended up buying 4 tires instead of 2! Not sure who haggled who!
Lakeview Eatery, all you can eat Catfish, pinto beans, cole slaw, onion rings, fries, biskets, country ham, hush puppies a big picture of Ice Tea for me and beers for the rest. Except of course for Corey. One thing I remember most was me trying to stay awake and watch the whole USC vs. Texas Championship BCS Game. I made it to 6 minutes to play with Texas down by 12. Only to wake up the next morning and tell everyone that USC won the Game. Only to turn on ESPN and find out about Texas's stunning comeback victory!! Damn!!
Tomorrow the Hunt!

2006-01-01T21:35:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone! It's been awhile! I spent the month of December neck deep in work and very little else. Just as I have for the last 25 years. Man, does that get me depressed! I hope you all had a Great Christmas!
Nipper, Lets get ready for the steak I owe you! Charlie's here we come! I'm glad that you enjoyed the Tank 10.
I also heard from a couple of good old friends this week! Lance Mountain called me at the store on Christmas Eve! Lance it was so good to hear from you. If you knew how often I thought about you while I was out fishing. I alway think of our days on Sunshine Creek watching those Char suck in Polar Shrimp and whatnot!
I also heard from Snickers on Christmas day, I even kept the truck on the road! What, its only been 18 years and 79 days since she kicked me to the curb in that Wayzetta Grocery Store Parking lot. I can't seem to remember the photographer guys name you left me for. Smooth move. Hold on I gotta go and pour me another Capt. Morgan.
I leave tomorrow for the home in Shoot 'n holler! Tuesday the band of 5, head to Hornbeak Tenn. and the Black Jack Pocket Hunting Club to shoot some Mallards and just maybe if I'm lucky, a beautifully colored drake widgeon. So I can put it up on the wall!!!
This trip I know will be really something. Dad, Smitty, Corey, Toby and myself in the van driving for 14 hours. You all know that there is nothing better to bring Spike down from the holiday craziness than to (Harvest) some waterfowl with my trusty Benelli! The Good Luck Monkey is packed and ready to go! I just have to find some one to crank him!!!
I also just heard from Todd tonight! Yep, Todd Moore is alive and well!!! HE'S GOT A GIRLFRIEND!!! That is the reason that he has bascially totally cut himself off from all his old hunting and fishing buddies and all of the old things he used to find so dear to his heart. ***Note to self- If I EVER stop going to Lac Seul because a woman, You all have my permission to kick my ass! Todd, I happy for you! But, FUCK DUDE!!!!!! We need to go fishin'! It's been so long, is it worth it???
Well, I'm deep in Vince Flynns new book Consent to Kill. and I can get another chapter or two in before bed if I hurry.
I'll post some of the Pix's of the trip upon my return!!
Lastly, Mike, it was a strange run, Wilf and the pres. hosed you good, fireing you today, with your son around. 9-7 , we knew it was coming, but it still doesn't make it easy. Tip one for me at Bunny's! and O'Garas.
(Hi Buttercup)

2005-11-27T17:57:00.000-08:00

Well, I went deer hunting... I had a great time visiting the Schoepke Clan!! I finally got to see Bill and Stacy's home and hang out with Ol' Shep and Joyce. Even tho I did not get a deer and pretty much froze my ass, except for Smitty and the Brickhouse and the "buddy" I would have probably perished. (I should have went crafting!) Can't believe I left the Good Luck Monkey in my truck. It's amazing that I made it back to Minnesota , when you think about it. Smitty bought a new truck, Toyota 4runner, pretty loaded. Ass Warmers!! Pretty gay, I thought untill I spent 11 hours in a tripod stand waiting for a herd of deer to appear. Those Ass Warmer Seats gained respect from Spike in a hurry!! Next truck will definately have those if I am still in Bemidji. I was thinking of Mooresville NC as I could possible locate if I was interested in doing so, and I have been in one place for more than 2.5 years so the time may be right for me to breeze. But Stacy and Nipper are doing a stellar job of convincing me to stay. Since all I do now is work and sleep, I could probably make it through the winter. I really only need to go outside for about 4 minutes a day unless I count cold truck minutes as outside minutes. Then I time out at about 30 minutes a day. Right now in suburban Bemidji it's a balmy 30 degrees with freezing drizzle and unbelievably slick driving conditions. Only the body shop guys are happy tonight, and Viking Fans.
Right now I'm watching the Gray Cup, featureing the Edmonton Eskimo's vs. the Montreal Alouettes(Damn Frenchies) I hope the Moe's kick their Ass. The Moes are up 3 t 1. What's pretty cool is, if the punting team, punts into the endzone, and the receiving team does not run it out, the punting team gets 1 point! Also Pamela Anderson was the Grey Cup Grand Marshall of the Pre Game Parade. (no make up and a conservative sweater) But with the folks ya know, she's just a small town girl after all!! I do have to say that the game is more fun to watch than the Eagles/Packers Game (awful)
I hope y'all had a great Thanksgiving. I'm fixin to get me some shut eye. So's I'll leave y'all for the time bein' (practicing)

Spike

2005-11-26T01:24:00.000-08:00

DK, The Gang, Super Dog and The Good Luck Monkey!

2005-11-16T21:58:00.000-08:00

Wow, That last post was just a little bit dramatic! So this one will be upbeat and filled with......who the heck knows where these fingers will lead me. First, I made it back home from the years last waterfowl hunt in North Dakota, this years hunt were successful as limits were shot all around, however we had to hunt hard and spent many more hours afield. Much more that previous years. A few highlights, Jumping and sitting on a secluded pothole watching the sun ebb in the western sky, as ducks spiralled down around us. The evening sky alight with flames from our barrels, OK mostly Wayne the "Duckling Killers" barrel. (no watch) A wonderful morning on Island Lake, in the Water Bitch. The G & H Super Mag Bills in string formation, and watch as flight after flight of bills, buff's, mallards, mergies and goldeneyes, metriculate into our waiting shot strings. So close, that I now believe that ducks do have facial expressions. Magnificent!!! Other noteable highlights, The Halloween Costume Party at the Wagon Wheel in Rollette. Ask any who were there, it was a hell of a night. Lap dances by "Tweety Bird" thank god it was a girl.(later revealed) right smitty? Ms. Saskachawan, the cheerleader(voted most popular 3 years running) and of course the bunnies. The cast of Gilligan's Island and lots of adult beverages. One hunter in the group was unable to make the opening bell the next morning. One wished he didn't. Here is a note to myself, stop at the 6th or 7th Tequela shooter and do not mix Windsor, Beer and Jag and Tequela. EVER AGAIN!! or at least untill next year!!!!!!
Sad thing was that I shot alot better this trip.
I leave Thursday for the big city and then Friday morning to Wausau, WI to see Bill and Stacy and attempt to put a 165 grain Nosler Ballistic Tip into a large Wisconsin Whitetail. This is the first time in a while that I have been in the stand. Actually, all I really want, is to see a deer while I have the Remdog 700 in hand. It's sighted in real good, so I really have no excuse except Buck Fever or lack of Quality. By the way the wind is howling outside the snow has stopped after depositing 2-3" of white powder the wind chill is hovering around -20 and I will be up in a tree dressed as the "Great Pumpkin". I most certainly am NUTS!! I have never claimed to be a great Deer Hunter, but remember I am called "Lucky" for good reason. I hope you all have a Great Thanksgiving!

It has been determined that Spike is to have one more shot at some Mallards, as a trip has been booked to Reelfoot Lake in Tenn., with Black Jack Pocket Hunt Club. The end of the first week of January. "Yeah Baby!"

Spike

2005-10-26T12:23:00.000-07:00

"Once Again"

My friends have been talking to me and they are trying to convince me to cut my loses and just stop my attempts at establishing a relationship with a certain someone. My head hurts from my attempts to be the good man. I can't give up. I still care. I still dream. But, I'm not blind, nor stupid. I did not become the person I am, by giving in, but I know when there is little hope. It is very difficult, because I see the glimpses of the person I know is within. But, Uncanny timing! Just when I........ BANG, WOW. Take out the dagger. Love, do I? This last one shook me. Today the answer is still yes, tomorrow, next week, next month?

I leave for No Dak Thursday. The Water Bitch is gassed and ready, New improvements installed. The hotel is reserved and the wagon wheel bar and grill will surely rock this weekend because I am ready to rock it like only I can. Have Mercy!!! The Spectacle that is the Spike Road Show is coming to town!!! I highly recommend that if you are anywhere near the town of Rollette, North Dakota on Friday or Saturday Night you show up because It is my belief that This weekend something magical will happen.

I will post some new Pix's when I return. I hope that some northern birds have made their way down. The SBE is ready to roar! Hook'em Horns!

Nipper, How's that for a Post? Honesty is the best policy? We'll see.

Spike

2005-10-12T22:57:00.000-07:00

2005-10-12T19:16:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling that i'm just marking time and not pushing the envelope as I have in the past. Is it complacency or neglect? I have tapered back on beer and booze, but find myself looking for something more...... Am I in crises mode, I don't think so, usually this time of year brings me into focus and gives me a sense of purpose. Hunting season has away of snapping me out of the lethargy, so far it hasn't, and I know not why. Things for me to ponder for a while I guess. On the bright side, I cooked up some fresh Green Beans and Damn they were good. My life is soooooo exciting. No wonder I have to keep this blog updated! Everyone is just hanging on every word, perched on the edge of their seats. And all thinking, his life sucks!!! It's not all that bad! A trip to see buttercup:), my little sis is in state and looking to hang out. Michelle is experiencing her first week in Cardiac Care, and I'm so proud of her!! I guess i'll just keep on going and see whats next. God! I hope there will be open water still in Nodak in 16 days!!
Happy Birthday Schmitty! Skeeter last night you were one DRUNK son of a Bitch!! What the hell was that all about, anyways? and Nipper, no the waders don't make you look fat! Remember that you will be in the middle of nowhere, dressed in camo, in a state where people wear big hats, roll their own smoke, and still drive cattle. Plus, you will have a loaded gun. If anyone laughs or gives you a hard time, fuck'em, shoot'em.
Words to live by!
Spike

2005-10-08T12:25:00.000-07:00

More Alaska Pictures as requested By Bev!

2005-10-06T22:04:00.000-07:00

"Duckling Killer"

One of my favorite things is bringing new people in to the Spike experience. So far this year I have done this twice, First was when Ms. Cota was on hand to take in the whole Lac Seul experience, from the "Monkey Cranker" to the "Walleye Trench" The latest trip found me taking a guy who had never had the opportunity to sit in the weeds and "whack" a duck or two at Smitty & Spikes Duck Haven, in North Dakota. How cool is it to take a soft spoken young lad from "Hutch" and turn him into a "Duckling Killer" in one short weekend!! "DK" can now plan a pothole ambush with flair and pizazz, he can also draw a wonderful ambush sketch in the dirt. He has developed a stylish F-150 entrance routine, complete with leg swing and upperarm curls that would make Bart Connors Proud. Oh, My God!!!! I know a gymnasts name!!!! I will not reveal "DK's" Real Name on this Blog as he has requested to remain anonymous .
I would like at this time relate to you how "DK" got his moniker. This all happened in the first morning of his first ever Duck Hunting adventure. First he had a few ducks buzz over his head at very close proximity from all angles. Then he fired his trusty Beretta many times, drawing nary a feather. He jumped his first pothole and emptyed his trusty smokepole again to no avail. Finally, he scored on a beautiful Widgeon Drake and then a pintail that he scratched down, barely, the bird dropped over the road into posted land. "DK" headed into the tall ditch grass in hot persuit. As Large Gravel trucks whizzed by "DK" was hot on the Pinny's tail when..... A gravel truck slowly stopped and backed up to our hero! Our boy slowly bowed his head, realizing he was about to "catch hell from a pissed off landowner" he approached the now stopped trucker and was ready to plead his case when the man emerged from his truck and introduced "DK" to his traveling Pardner and best pal "Lindsy" the black lab, who quickly found "DK's" missing Pintail, who it turns out met his demise by trying unfortunately to cross the road, directly in front of a fully loaded gravel truck and was "squished" flat as a pancake on the roadside! Tough break!
Finally, how Duckling Killer got the name. Behind the trailer, is the home hole, a small body of water no biger than Spikes apartment. There is always a few ducks hiding from the onslaught. Shep and Wayne er, "DK" went back to check it out as the rest of the gang began processing the days harvest. Suddenly, two shots rang out! Minutes later Shep entered the yard alone. We asked him about "DK's" whereabouts and the reply was laughter, just laughter! "DK" emerged from the tree line, weeds hanging from the Beretta, arms and face dripping water, he triumphedly raised his hand in the air , holding two of the smallest, nearly featherless ducklings ever to be shot. As he had shot, his feet had become entangled in weeds and mud and down he went. Clinging to his shooting iron as he splashed into the murky water. Wallowing about in the mire, he quickly gathered up his quarry and headed out to show off his bounty. These duckling's had to have hatched just a week or two ago! Almost still wearing their shells! Their young lives had been shortened with a quick shotgun blast, thus saving them from slowly freezing to death during the soon to be arriving blizzard. The legend of "DK" had begun! Just wait till Halloween weekend when we get to add even more to the legend! Of course I had my own problems, and Smitty was a walking Nyquil ad. But we all survived to do it all again, and again. You can bet your ass on that!

Sorry killer, but you know.....

Zugbug

2005-09-30T00:18:00.000-07:00

Not all that much to say tonight. I should be in bed, but am not that tired. I head off to North Dakota for a Duck and Goose hunting trip in the morning. Sometimes its pretty cool to be me. This is one of those times. Plan on heading for Grand Forks at 7:30 so I'm at Cabela's around opening. Not really looking to buy anything, just want to look around. Devils Lake then Jeff's farm. Check out the ponds and look for birds, but I know that they're there. They always are. The SBE is packed and the O/U is also. The Camo job on the SBE looks pretty cool and I think that I may buy some camo face paint so I can match. :) The pressure is on, as Smitty, Shep and Wayne are all making the trip, and this puts alot of pressure on me to shoot well. They are pretty weak when it comes to actually hitting anything. Ah well, more shooting for me!!! Smitty and Corey are meeting Bill and Toby at Hooters in Fargo. It's been along time since I was there. If it was not for the $2.89 per gallon gass, I would swing down there but the 150 extra miles for Orange shorts and cleavage just doesn't seem such a big deal. What the hell did I just say?????!!!!!!! Fuck!!! Hope I kill a Sandhill. I so much want to see one fold up and plummett to the ground. I'm a sick bastard!!! But its true! Gonna eat it up to. People say that they're tasty, hopefully I see in a day or so.
The FLW tour fishing dates and locations were made available today and Devils Lake is on the docket for June 7th -10th. Happy Birthday to me, Happy Birthday to me! Eagles Tournament, FLW Devils Lake, then Lac Seul, a week later. Sounds good to me!! Now If I could just win some money.
Well, I have to finish some stuff so I'll sign off now.
Hey Buttercup, enjoy the movies!
Spike is going to unleash the Beast, I'll be performing at the Durham House on Saturday night. and The Wagon Wheel on Monday Night. Rock the House.
Time to Let'r Buck!

Zugbug Lives!!

2005-09-27T00:50:00.000-07:00

2005-09-25T20:27:00.000-07:00

"Halibut"

The culmination of my Alaskan Adventure was an early morning drive to Seward, the drive is very beautiful, I'm told. However at 4 am, NOT SO MUCH!! We found the Marina and paid for the trip $210.00, and found the boat, the "Pursuit" By now the sun was up, and there was nary a cloud in the sky, and not a puff of breeze. Some times I'm lucky. 2 1/2 hour drive to the fishing grounds. Awesome scenery, Spectacular actually. As in "WOW"!! There were 9 anglers aboard, as well as the Captain and the first mate. We were into fish right away. Ling cod (ugly) Yellow eyed Red Fish (pretty) and Halibut (interesting) I caught a Halibut almost instantly, one about 30 lbs or so and we released it. You can keep 2 and when your done your done. We all got our limit and the biggest was 40 something, no giants, thank God!! After all the Salmon I had caught all week my pipes were beat and after catching 3 denisens of the deep plus some Salmon Sharks I quit and just enjoyed the day!!!! The trip in was also incredeble and the drive back to Anchorage was very pretty, at least until it got dark and Smitty kept getting the head bobs!!! Scary! Spike took the wheel and kept hitting the rumble strips to keep Smitty from sleeping. I'm such a prick sometimes :) I will get down to Seward again someday and maybe take the Fiord and glacier cruise and explore the town. It is seriously, a very pretty place. I'm usually not that interested in that sort of stuff but..... I highly recommend the trip. The Halibut is very tasty also!!! Fed Exing the fish home is spendy tho. I will post some Pix after I'm done here.

Friday the 30th? I head for North Dakota for a waterfowl shooting spree. This is one of the 2 yearly trips I take that give me reason to keep on living. Honest, If I could not get out to chase ducks life would not be worth living. Been that way since I was 12, Havn't missed a year, ever. There is nothing better, and it is less than a week away!!!!!!! Damn I won't sleep all week now. Big Al says, sex is better than chasing ducks, Maybe, but I can't remember.

Bye

zugbug

2005-09-21T21:12:00.000-07:00

2005-09-21T20:38:00.000-07:00

" SOCKS B"

The morning of September 2nd, found me in the TRFA rookie cabin, discovering a dilemma. Figuring that I would be leaving the Togiak to head back to the BBL lodge, I had only packed 1 extra pair of socks, a pair of sweatpants and a long sleeve T and a dress shirt for dinner. I had worn the sweats and the long sleeve shirt and T the day before fishing and as it was quite warm, now, they did not smell all that great. To start the day I had not much of a choice, so I donned the smelly gear and off I went. Did I mention that it was now raining?

Smitty at the helm we headed down stream, rain drops streaking the sunglasses. Down we went to the 3 fingers area. Pulled into a gravel bar and quickley got into salmon. As we had only kept one fish the previous day, we unleashed the dogs of war, and let the killing begin. Quickly we had 9 fish tied up to the boat with rope to bleed out. All died from blunt force trama. (a pipe to the head) The fish came fast and furious! So did the rain. It was hard to get the camera's out. but I still got a lot of footage on the new video recorder, and the trusty old Minolta. Rain or no rain, I captured the scene. Our Rods were bent constantly and my knuckles got seriously shredded by my fly reel and a really pissed off Silver. (it took a pipe to the head) Bastard!! Soaked and hurting Smitty and I headed home. Realizing we had not even taken time to eat lunch. We each had a can of root beer and that was it. We cleaned fish and packed them and I headed to the cabin to peel off my waders and my soaked shirts and the incredebly, nasty smelling sweats and of course "Socks B" A quick shower and into my pants and semi-cleanest shirt and well, commando all the way. Off to dinner! Then exhausted, into the rack, 9:15 pm. The sun still shining. How in the hell did I do this for 115 days straight? Man , I'm old.

2005-09-19T17:50:00.000-07:00

Left: BBL Dock Right: Spike w/Silver Middle Left: Togiak River Fishing Adventures Camp Middle Right: Bristol Bay Lodge Bottom Left: Smitty and a Silver Salmon

2005-09-18T15:29:00.000-07:00

"THE TOGIAK"

Thursday morning Sept. 1, found the sun rising up over Jacknife mountain and streaming light in to my side of the Humpy/Dolly cabin. My sister Michelle stopped by the cabin to wake us up. But we were already awake. I don't know if Smitty slept or not, but I know I did! An order off the menu breakfast and Michelle packed us a lunch for the journey to the Togiak. It turns out that Laura, a member of the BBL lodge staff was going with us to the River were she will be helping the staff there for the remainder of their season (10 Days) I am excited to see Brad and Karla and their Kids, Rebecca and Austin. Rebecca was just a small baby when I last saw her and Karla and Brad back in "88" or "89" (I sound like Hutch there) Jimmy flew guests to the "Pak" and came back for us. Steve piloted us and Jimmy was righthand. Smitty and I middle and Laura tucked in back. It was her first time in a Beaver and she was nervous, but Steve did a great job. Steve is picking up hours where he can, so he can get the ability to fly customers/guests at the Lodge. So we were in a sense ginny pigs or crash test dummies, if you will on this trip. I have no doubts about Steve tho. And as I said he did a great job. I have to step back a bit and let you know about our plans for the week. We were to hit the Togiak, on Thursday, fish it until Saturday afternoon then fly back to the lodge and spend the rest of the week there fishing the Agulawok and Sunshine Creek and Icy Creek, and fly out Wednesday the 7th back to Anchorage. Travel to Seward and fish for Halibut on the 8th and drive back to the city and fly out at 11 am on Friday the 9th. All in all a good plan. Well you know about plans, they are just that. Since I am kind of a fly by the seat of your pants guy we tossed out the plan for the most part and well.......Here we go.
As I said earlier, it was a beautiful day for flying to the Togiak. Bright sun high puffy clouds 67 degrees little if any wind, about as good as it can get. We landed at the Pongo and we boated down stream to Togiak River Fishing Adventures camp (www.togiakfishing.com) Brad and Karla were there and after hugs all around Karla showed Smitty and I to our quarters. We were put up in the rookie guide cabin on the far end of the island. After storing our gear Smitty and I helped Austin and Brad get shore lunch supplies together and we hopped into Brads new Smokercraft jon boat (sweet!!) and headed down river. Past BBL's river camp, Mission lodges camp and Tikchik's camp. Down to the three fingers where the guides had their compliment of anglers deployed on the beach casting to scores of bright silver salmon holed up in the slack water. Hundreds of silvers, porposing and finning, hookup's were almost nonstop, Smitty and I could not keep from smiling. After Introductions and handshakes a client asked me "just what does it take to be a celebrity guide in Alaska? (Brad had told the guides and his guests that I was coming in and just wait till they met me.) I told him that the first thing was "that it helped to be a celebrity" and secondly that it helped to be a "Fishing God" At this first glance I could tell he was not impressed. After Shore lunch Brad took us back to TRFA, on the way down Brad showed us the wreck of the Mission Lodge Beaver, that had crashed the week before our arrival. (all walked away) We also looked at, at least 10 spots that held good numbers of fish either Dollies or Silvers. Once back at camp Brad showed Tom and I our boat, tossed us a net and told us that dinner was at 7:30 and Breakfast was at 7:30 and recommended we get out and hammer some fish. We almost ran back to the cabin to don our battle gear. Minutes later we were heading down river at full speed. We stopped at the BBL hole and I stuck our first salmon of the trip. I was using a Gander Guide series IM7 6'6" Baitcast rod, 2piece MH, a Gander Guide Series 56 reel, filled with 12 Trilene XT clear. Sampo snap swivel and a Blue Fox Pixie spoon. Silver/Orange. Smitty was using a St. Croix Premier 6'6" H Rod and a Shimano Calcutta 200 reel filled with 14 Trilene XT Clear loaded on it, and a Blue Fox Vibrax spinner size 5 Silver with a Pink body. We kept one and released the rest and headed for camp around 5:30 as we had seen the rest of the guides, one by one heading back. We watched the guides clean and package the fish in expert fashion, I cleaned our fish and Smitty and I helped package up the fish, and off we went for a shower and dinner! Life is good! It was good catching up with Brad and Karla, They run a great camp and I am fortunate to call them my friends. If you ever get the opportunity to plan a trip to fish Alaska, I would say that you would be hard pressed to find a camp that offers you the opportunity for unparalleled fishing in a casual and relaxing atmosphere, all on one river. Dinner was great and later, I found myself in the same place as I was the last time I was on the Togiak, Hanging out with guides listening to tunes and drinking shots of whisky until it was to dark to see the trail back to the cabin,(some things just don't change!) stumbling all the way. I fell in to bed and thus ended my first day on the Togiak in 12 years! That my friends was AWESOME!!!

Zugbug

Hey Buttercup! You owe me $5 :)

Next time "Socks B"

2005-09-16T23:51:00.000-07:00

Worked Late, and work early, and i'm in a crappy mood. So this is a short one tonight. My store was the hottest place in Bemidji today. Temperature wise, is was a sweat lodge. I swear I had a vision. I got my truck back tonight. $710.00 DAMN!!! Almost bought a new one. It was the same color and well, then why change? Waiting for the scratch for a King Ranch. Maybe keep the truck and buy a car and save the truck for hunting and fishing and such.

I think I made a good friend mad at me, for saying what was on my mind. I thought it was a good move but guess not. So I'm in a bad ass mood. and I'm hot and tired. Best I go to bed and sleep. Get out of bed on the right side tomorrow!

Have a great weekend folks, I'll see how I do tomorrow, Until then, .....................

Zugbug

Good to hear from you "King of Schrubs" Say Hello to your bride for me.
Buzz, Smitty and I caught a couple for ya, in the rain with cookies in our mouth.

2005-09-15T22:25:00.000-07:00

"THE RIDE"

Lets see, where do I start? 7:00 am Humphery terminal, Sun Country Jet, Row 1, seat C, FIRST CLASS! Leg Room! Ass Room! Hot Towels! Real Breakfast! Pounding down screwdrivers as the flight attendant gave us the preflight speech. Getting Cut off of screwdrivers around Calgary. I thought she liked me because every time I looked up she was checking me out. If it wasn't the fact that it ws me, I would have sworn.... but, now I realize that she was wondering, how a hopeless loser like me was in first class, sitting next to the guy who looked like a preist with the DVD player tuned to the Matt Damond flick! Cut Me Off! Dumb Ass! Obviously she did not know with whom she was dealing with, Hell, I'm the Founder of Bemidji's Drink like a Fish Night! She was even more shocked when Smitty answered all their Crossword Puzzle problems, and then they tried testing us by playing sports trivia with the first class passengers. Who was the original Senior Smoke? "Why Arealio Lopez" Spike shot at her. "and you'll have to do better than that" smugly she eyed me up and asked " What team did Billy Waddy play for?"

"LA Rams early to mid 70's" "Wide Receiver" Stunned silence in the in the cabin.

"OK smart guy" "Who was the Quarterback that threw to him?" she asked with her eyebrow raised. No longer so smug.

"First or last, with the Rams" Spike asked.

"Last" she said, now with her eyes averted to the floor

"John Hadle" Spike said quietly, not wanting to rub it in.

"Fast White boy that Billy Waddy was I recall" said Spike, to no one in particular.

"Not anymore" said the flight attendant "He's my husband, and now days he's quite slow"

"What were you drinking? Screwdrivers, Right?"

Anchorage here I come!!!!!

2 hours later

Penn Air, Bratwurst with wings, winging our way to Dillingham. Looks the same. The Aleknagik road is now paved? The lake now has an access? 12 years is a long time. WOW, I'm old. Sunny boat ride across the lake. The lodge comes into view, Plane hanger, Boathouse Gazobo Bar, New Cabin, Lager Rainbow Cabin, Screen Porch. I toss my gear in Humpy/Dolly cabin, I'm Back. I am Back! I look at the walls, signed by the many guides who had been there. I remember signing long ago, but can't find the spot. My eyes do however quickly spot and old friends signature and his immortal words of wisdom. "My advise to you, is to drink heavily." So true Mr. Struif, so true.

More to come, Stay tuned......

I have a question for you all, what do you do when you find out that being the best you can be, is not good enough?

2005-09-14T21:33:00.000-07:00

September 14th, 2005

Wobble Trap

Tonight was the annual sponsor outing at the Bemidji Trap and Skeet Club. I shot the Member competition at 23 yards, I sucked, but did not finish last in my group. I actually tied with Skeeter for first in our Quint, with a 16 out of 25. AS I said, I sucked. After shooting standard trap at 16 yards all season and finishing as top gun on the Gander Mountain team with 22.7 birds per round, this handicapped wobble stuff was an eye opener. Oh, well, practice is practice, and in 15 short days the real deal begins, North Dakota Duck and Goose Opener for Spike and the gang. Cando here I come. This is the best time of the year! Fat Man Weather! Spikes peak operating temps. The Benelli super black eagle is no longer black, as it has made its way back from the gunsmith lab with a spiffy new Max4 camo pattern. It's sweet!!! Oh, so pretty! I'm worried about setting it down in the grass and finding it again. It should come with a pager so an oaf like me can locate it again. In the past I have had difficulty finding my gun when it was straight Black Death! I may have to tie a string to it. Today I also put a Browning Citori 20 ga. Lightning on layaway at the store. I have always wanted one and soon it will be mine! There have been requests to hear more about my recent trip to Bristol Bay, Alaska and so I shall for you all, but not tonight. Soon though! Be patient! I rarely disappoint! Stay Tuned!

Quick computer note, a while back I somehow downloaded a thing, that about every minute pops up a variety of fine looking ladies onto my screen in very miniature sizes, and they do a quick striptease then go away. At first it was cool, but now it's annoying(at least a little) I'm going to leave now and try to delete it, or enlarge the image, I can't decide.

The Halibut arrived today! The freezer is packed and on Friday at 11:00 am I will be grilling Salmon and Halibut for the Gander Gang here in Bemidji! Yummy!!!

Zugbug/Spike

2005-09-13T20:42:00.000-07:00

Sept.13th 2005

"LUCKY"

Well, It's come and gone. Like a false spring sunset, or a really, really good drink, you anticipate it, savour it and wish it would last forever then with that last red glow in the western sky it's gone, ice cubes in a glass. Only the memories remain. Thank God for the memories.
I had not been back to Alaska, since I flew out on the freedom beaver back in 1993. Twelve long life experienceing years. Honestly, every spring you think about it, even if it's just a minute or two. Life goes on for the most part, you experience new great things, you take up new past-times, maybe get married, maybe divorced, maybe live in a box, but you still think about it. Wether you remember the Surging raw power of a Nushagak King, or the roar of the Beaver at take off, or maybe it's the sipping, slurping of a Rainbow taking a dry fly on the "Pak" or the "Wok" It may be the colors of a spawned out chum, barely alive yet protecting those precious eggs until he death takes him. For many, myself included is the acrobatic antics of the magnificent "Silver". Finning and rolling their way up the Togiak, Alaska takes a hold of you and just does not let you go. Ever. I have just returned from the "big land" a trip for the storybooks, followed by a special weekend of quiet relaxation and wonderful company. Some do not understand when they see me why many, as well as I, call myself "Lucky" But if you had been with me these last couple of weeks, there would be no doubt that my life is certanly blessed. Blessed with Great Friends, Great Family, and Lots of Luck. Three Years ago on September 4, 2002, I was laying in a Cleveland, Ohio Operating room with a small and very talented man cutting my chest open with a shiny circular saw. I still remember when they told me what they were going to do, and how I told them to, Get Bent! (clean version) I also remember Mom telling me to believe in their skill and have faith. Let me tell you I was ready to walk. Glad I stayed. Without some help I may not have been able to have this last cool big trip, which will hopefully turn into another, and then another. There I was 3 years to the day, sitting on the Togiak, with one my my best pals, catching silver after silver, sitting in the all day in bone drenching rain, wearing socks B, and jockey A (we will get into that on another day) (soon) Taking time to sip a mug's rootbeer and nibble on a snickerdoodle. Boy life can be good. Thanks, Steve. and all the BBL crew. Thanks, Brad and Karla, Rebecca and Austin and Diva and Laura, and all theTRFA homies. Thanks Steve and Josh and the Pursuit. Thanks Missy and Michelle. Thanks Smitty, man was that great or what. and of course Thanks Buttercup, you are really something!
I gotta go. I have to pack some fish in my freezer before it thaws and of course the Halibut arrives tomorrow!
More Soon!
Say tuned.