Mountain River Lodge
"The Reports" tmcarlin@webhart.net
If You are looking for the most current report on weather and water, Fish and Game
2007 Jan 29
First couple of shows are done and Harrisburg is coming up quick. We finally got our wint up here but are still light on the snow but heavy on the cold.
The Fall fishing was just fantastic and so far the closing of the lodge has gone over smoothly. Things are locked down for another season and next year looks to be busy and promises to be just as fun. Thanks everyone for making the 06 year just great!
Aug 23 rd 2006 - Colorado and Willow leaf spinners on the mark right now for the Muskies
Observations from the Deck.
While driving back from the Bay yesterday, the wash lines in the sky were incredible - against a mountain back drop, the river and a lake. Just a little time out to enjoy the view. Sometimes you take things for granted and it takes someone else to point it out for you. Thanks Cliff, cabin 14 and Grace too, see you next year with the 14 grand kids..
Time on the back waters, on the River and Lakes is good, fishing is swell but the company with, is what really makes a trip.
A close friend of my wife past away last week, my mom turned 30 ish, and a best man of Ed's died this past week at 32 years, life is not fair, Just kind of makes you think, time is still on our side - enjoy, we are still reading- God is, and God Bless but believe and know -.we are on the same side, same page and.... here we are... I apologize for the inconvenience...
Bristol This Week
August Ending and the Mc Cotter group is coming ( why do they put that darn "S" key next to the "D"?) I hate re typing, - keep the open side up, Folks, looking forward to see you in camp soon, some folks do not get my humor... and well, I like it. Butterfly Effect.
Rainy Days and Thursdays, High temps are finding the walleye bite right now at 24 ft in the mid day. We are catching 3 and 4 to one on the bottom bouncers!
Under the Mid Night Sun, it has just begun...
There is a place where adventures unfold, sometimes it's hard work, or not but what you catch and what you see, is what it is all about and well the journey too. I am Still trying to get my rail tracker back for a slide down to Ronny Lake. Tight Lines, T.C.
The week of Kyle's -Sometime around mid August and no dates need specified.
Well the Northern Lights have seen strange sights, but the strangest a guide could ever see, was the night we put Jesse, yes Jesse up that old darn tree. And What we heard told would make your blood run cold, but we will hear it again and again, you'll see. And that is what the hunt is about, right, - good friends, stories told (warm or cold) and the adventure that is soon to be. Sept. One - so, so looking forward to it!
Trust your guide , but remember, there are times when not to
believe him, -, like when his lips are moving .
Thank you, Colonel M. W. Blackledge, U.S. Marine Corps
The Flag you raised in honor of the Carlin's and Staff on July 5 th at Camp Commando, Kuwait, is held high here now. The K/O and Mountain River Lodge is greatly appreciated, Thank you Frank, it is nice to have you home. Stars and Stripes, T.C. - Always Faithful
Gulp - Fish eat them! Also Senko's, Do nothing, Wacky Worms and Jersey Rigs- they are all working!
Dog Patch,
The Walleye bite is on right now! Ask Jimbo and company as they tore up the lower River, found Dad's hump and limited easily on each outing. Thanks Donny, for the great two week stay and the time on the Dumoine River trip and the photo with the kids is, well ... priceless. thanx
August 16th, 2006
No Secrets Lost
Hey, do not tell too many people about our little piece of "paradise found" along the Ottawa River, but between you and me, the plastic Gulp, and the Spittin Image - well we are kicking the fishes butts!
An evening with the Pleacieds! a great meteor shower came across our Northern skies the last couple of nights which rivaled the Northern Lights and made for great conversation and viewing while also enjoying the Hot Tub and other constellations. And then, drinking in the sound of wolves from across the waters edge. This was Good Stuff! No this was better, It was the "Right Stuff"
Non Fish Fries!
Yes Lee, they are happening every week now, sometimes twice. You started something. They have been totally AWESOME! and a special thanks to some good conversation with the Flew party and their ten day stay from the U.K. ( couldn't understand half of that was said and they speak English, well - Welch ) but we had some good jokes, great walleye, bad card tricks and Awesome moose meat. ( yes that was for you Lee.) How goes that NASCAR anyway. Michele is happy after Watkin's Glen. She is still the points leader in the house. I would like to thank the Hendricks folks, Chevrolet, Dupont, Pepsi,. Ridingers, Bass tracker, Ranger and ........ etc.
Wing Man Aug. 8th / 06
It is always good to have a wing man, he looks after you, covers your back and catches that ace at 2:00 high. Well two a clock is a good time to head home for before an early guide trip, but I did drag my wing man with me and we had ( the fog of war) a good Summer fest weekend that was followed up by a great day on the Dumoine, Holden, and Bass Lakes. (Coyote' Lake is doing very good too! ) We have to re name it " Ugly" as my partner "Young Mark" did his best but took a fall on the way in. Everyone is A O Kay at the K/O River Lodge and we are back into the fishing big time now, And I'm still looking for a good wing man that will direct a cast, tie a line and take his buddy in... at the appropriate time.
Zoo Keepers Daughter
This book is due out soon and is a must read, and if anyone has read these chronicles of fishing trips in a Northern town, will know of the story of the "Moose and the Caboose" Thanks Laurie & Doug Day, Space Farms, (Worlds largest privately owned Zoo) and all of Sussex County N.J. for the the great times had. "For a fisherman, he is one heck of an accountant." Your words, not mine, but repeated several times.
Rain and a little wind today but the docks are tight. and Steve and Matt are guiding above and below the river systems today. Collin is setting sights for bear season so I'll type and plan the trips for tomorrow.
Riddles in the Light - End of July
What has a mouth but never speaks, has a bed but never sleeps?.... the river
Another nice trip up river. Moose seen, Fish Caught and the light in the eyes of " Fisherman in Training" made for some life long memories. Jeff and I had the pleasure of guiding The Houser's -Thanks Leon , Tim Houser and Company for a very swell time. Hobbit riddles and freshly cooked fish mixed the day nicely between the catches.
Klack Attack, July ending - Ladies rule, I need not say anymore. Well I just don't know where to begin. wink
Rowers of the Aug. Long Week End
Thanks Vincent, Hi Brenda, (Barbara) and Wendy - I'm still paying. My hand was all Ace's and Eights that night.
We had some great fishing again this week with the klackowicz party that Steve, Mark, Jeff and myself set up for the fantastic 7. Normally a grand slam is the big 4 - " a Musky a Walleye, a Pike and a Bass" But we managed the Super 7 with a couple of Muskies, Pike, Walleye, Sm. Mouth, Lg Mouth, Channel Cat. Blue Gill, Gar pike and well that's 8. That's right we don't count the Rockies. Good times had by all.
Tail ends!
June 27
The tail end of June fishing prior to opening bass kept up the big, big action along with the walleye hook. Ron and Lee along with Mike and Cathy Ridinger ( too many stories that can not be told) I could be poetic but some( including my wife) folks do not understand my jokes and say I'm just not funny, Tim. Anyway the boys found lure, the where and the presentation, and the walleye holes through out the narrows and managed a few days on the Lakers and Muskie waters too. They are still up and enjoying a 3rd week of fishing already this year. Bass counts are into the the couple hundreds for Bill Rust and Ken Edwards with only two days of fishing in this week. Mike Thomas fished up with over 500 for his stay. (those were fat round pike, crappy and blue gills) and this month has shown us a mix of warm days with very cool nights. A couple of midnight storm fronts this past week helped stir up the fishing too. Pike over 42 inches are credited to six anglers so far and 15 over 40 inches with Matt Carlin's 45-1/2 inch Northern being the one to beat so far. Overcast skies today with wind coming in at 5 to7 miles per hour from the North West. it's race day today at 3:00 pm Sears Point, so a little time off fishing and back at it in the A.M.
Tight Lines, Terry Jr.
Tripping.06/06/19 Waters from the Algonquin interior, into the Laurentians and along the Ottawa River Valley has marked me with a little more than 20 trips so far this year and counting. The Walleye have started slow above the Dam this season but right on - on the lower side it's right on. Post spawn Smallies were easy to see in under four and five feet of water. Walleyes in the park at Radiant and Traverse were great as was the Pike fishing in SecWet. Traverse and Montgomery gave the largest Muskie so far as well as the Chalk out side of the Park. Canoe ventures along the Barron Rivers 300 foot cliffs have become weekly outings. 6 to 8 hours trips for Small Mouth and Walleye with a few carries around the falls and rapids made for tired trekkers at days end.
June 15 - All guides are out for six straight days this week with Stuart Korn and company as we fished the works with a group of 12 anglers visiting on his 9th consecutive year. (sometimes when your cast fades a little to the left it only takes a small piece of tape on your shoe to straighten it out, right Allen T. Willie Harzula with Paul Pear and Joe Vittali set some record catches on the military lakes as well as Holden but their high light after 20 years of coming up was another 20 Muskies landed in one day on the Chalk. Game play and retirement coming. I don't know, I've been retired 3 years now since setting up office at the River, good luck my friend, enjoy Colorado and I'll see you in the Spring! T.C.
June 10th - Muskellunge Hunt.
Three River systems and 11 lakes have just opened this week and the great Muskie Hunt is on. pike are still a hot topic out front on the river as Bill Slavick and Matt Tagged a few good ones from Boom Creek to the Schyane River this week with the end stretching out over 45 inches. some large ones were taken straight from under the River docks just out front by Collin and I as each time we shifted the docks out, the fish moved with it. Jeff and I took our fill this week with a heavy pay load of River Run Channel Cats. Most came in between 3 to 7 pounds and made for great eating. A few walleye found their way into the batter too!
Mid May 2006
Season began during mid May starting us out with great pike fishing on the Ottawa River. Yogi and his group nailed the opener at prime time on the river with Mark taking the biggest northern at 44 inches.
APRIL 28th 2006
Everyone is back and we open up in just a few weeks. It's going to be a busy Spring, Summer and Fall. The show circuit was quite eventful and it was great to see everyone. Looking out across the River this morning was quite enough to really get that feeling of making that perfect cast again. Skies are blue and the River is clam today although it is still a bit cool. Cabins are opening up and the docks are soon to go in. The water is quite cold so Collin and I not so looking forward to that last part. Weekly reports will start soon so visit often. Water levels are a little high now but it has been dropping slowly and the winds have dried up most of back lake roads pretty well. keep the open side up! Tight Lines, Terry Jr.
March 31st
All shows are over for the winter 2004, and it's looking bright and
busy! Michele and I took our finale snow shoe escapade yesterday, ( yes we still have
snow) and the woods were beautiful. Still can not wait for the first cast into open
water as the Ottawa River is frozen over but the creeks and rivers are running fast and
the break up is coming soon. We picked up a nice moose shed from out where they were
herded up for the winter but couldn't find the match. Wolves are still feeding on
the rivers edge and the raccoons have broken their winter hibernation which means the
bears are soon to follow. My folks are back from the sunny south and the schedule is
busy as we start to reopen cabins and setup for the coming season. A few new cabins are
being brightened up and we have 6 busy weeks to get the docks in, pool and hot tub opened
and the hooks sharpened! Bring up some "Gulp" Soft plastic
lures as the were the the hot commodity of last years season and are expected to do as
well this year too. June 5 is opening musky and in line Blue FOX # 3 to 5's in
the orange colour was a great great hit on paralleling the weed lines while throwing the
weed less or fast spinner baits into the pad cover starting close to shore. See you
on the water soon, Tight Lines T.C.
The M
January 3 / 06
Hello everyone again! We hope all had a great holiday season and have brought in the new year healthy and a little heavier and enjoyed the days with friends and family. Mom and Dad did a little traveling this year while Michele the kids and I held down the home front. Snowmobile season is upon us which makes Dave busy in the shop and keeping the River Lodge plowed out as we have about 15 inches of the white stuff now. Shows are starting soon and you can expect to see us at Edison, NJ and Fort Washington, PA first, followed by Chantilly, VA. My first show will be in Harrisburg in early February at the same location in the Main Hall and plan on bringing an old sea dog with me this year (River Guide, Mark). I will also be in Suffern and Hamburg too in March and plan to have representatives in Monroeville and Rochester. That's the schedule to date and the pre new year bookings look to make 2004 a very busy year for us and the guide bookings have already locked out 2 weeks so if you are interested in seeing new water with a guide or travel to your favorite spots with a guide please let me know as early as possible. T.C.
December 2003
We are shut down now for the Fall and soon the sport shows will be upon us. We look forward seeing new and friends again soon. Wishing everyone happy and healthy holidays.
The Carlin's
October 9th 2003 - 49 degrees this morning and a bright sunny Autumn day ahead.
Fall colors are at their peak, geese are heading south and the ducks are flying low. We just had our first frost which is late for us, and the whole region is looking awesome. Arlean, Justin, Pop and I are just closing up the boats and storing them for the winter. Cabins are shut down but we left the Bungalows and River Lodge open for awhile yet. We are all staying busy and Diane is closing up the office but still has the phone line open, but to reach the River Lodge please call 613 584 2861 or me at home at 584 1368 - Thanxs
September is gone. Seasons are going too fast. Again the fishing and hunting was great all the way through. we had a great Archery moose hunt and tagged a big bull up in Quebec and two more Bulls in the Gun season. There is always a story and I look forward to sharing it with all at the shows this winter. Next is gun season then closing up camp, just can't believe its October already. Mark and Steve are closing out the year with a trip into Montgomery for walleye and Musky today and then we're done for the fishing. Tight Lines T.C.
Aug. 30th "the ROAST"
After finishing an awesome summer fishing season we set our sights on the Fall Bear season. This starts out with a great Moose and Walleye BBQ and then followed by a day long Pig Roast. Someone had a beer too. Both first and second weeks proved great with a 98% success rate! We had some pre season Bear problems at home too as one tried to gain entry to our house after devouring the porch BBQ. Problem taken care of via 300 win mag and a 190 silver tip. I can not say enough of the fun we had and how great it was to have old friends and a few new ones in camp, I so look forward to those weeks and I'm looking forward to next season already. PS - Thanks for the truck Paully!
August 15th Aaron's Day
Heading back to the North Country with a cool breeze in my eyes, just glad to be back again and looking forward to fishing that one special back water pool that needs revisiting. Grey Owl / T.C.
Aug 3, 2006
Cow Paddy time of Year!
Yes this is our August long week end and the Valley entertainment is at it's finest. In keeping with the local traditions Michele has taken the Kids to the one room school house for three legendary races, hotdogs and waiting to see where the cow relieves himself and award the owner of the pasture ticket a cool $500.00! the suspense is killing me. All came home with Ribbons but the Cow has failed to relieve itself ... yet
Terry Stone and his clan took 3 boats into Center yesterday and blew out the Bass with incredible catches on soft plastics and a little live bait for the kids. This is canoeing season for several groups as they are voyaging to some of the less accessible waters on Algonquins interior lakes ( the Barron Canyon, Sec, Lucky and the James). The Eckard / Blikle Family crew of Nine from Rochester N.Y. who worked over the guides, Mark and Steve on the River for some really successful Walleye takes and a couple Sturgeons some great 36 inch Northerns. Bill Davis scored the Biggest one last week while forcing his friend Henry to give his up as they Doubled in the 1st Persquille. Scott still has them beat at 44 1/2 inches and 26 pounds.
White Mudlers, Sinko's And Rapalas was all that we needed Monday July 7th. Mark Pecora with his buddies Mike and Brian along with myself had an amazing out back adventure that caught us over 80 Bronze backs with 5 going over 4 pounds. We were Small Mouth fishing in under 6 foot of water where we could look right down into the schools of fish and literally watch the bite. Temps are still in the high nineties and clear skies on call for the next couple days.
July 5, 2006
BASS - TASTIC !
and it was...
What an awesome week of fishing, The Dragonfly hatch sent the Bass on the lakes into a frenzy and the quote of the week goes to Jason Shane "This is CRAZY, They are everywhere!" And they were. Several dozen bass made that dramatic "Sub Surface to Air Jump" Deep, Shallow, in the Pads, Timber and on Rock Shelves. Along with his uncle Lou and the Help of Lee and Ron Ridinger, we managed to boat 201 Bass in under six hours on the water. The week was extremely good for everyone for both new time guests and the returns as we saw action on over 16 lakes in only 6 days on the water. If your planning a trip next week be prepared for more warm weather as this past week saw temps move into the mid 90's. Mark and I both saw our best action on the River and the Tributaries but the lakes turned on mid week and produced the numbers.
I'll stay in touch, Guiding Algonquin, T.C.
Blue Lizards Everywhere - June 25/06
Mike Thomas and Family kicked Bass all week long in our on going heat wave of the year. Tossing jigs and blue Lizards were #1 with all lakes from Bissett Creek to along the Algonquin edge down to the Barron Canyon. Seconds Lake on the Interior gave them over a hundred good bass and the best pike fishing yet. Wilkins Lake was awesome for Mark Stellini and company as an annual trip for over 10 years. Finding the Rip Rap along the south shores was were the Pike were and the Bass were just one lake over in Gunny. Young Rachele is still looking for the cover photo to make the front of our news paper for the fourth consecutive year.
Frank Ciardi's Grandson is holding the big Pike for the week at an even 16 pounds from across the River along with a big 10 pound Channel Cat. Temps are still in the mid and high 90's through out the days but cooling off nicely at night. Opening Bass on the Lakes comes this weekend and we are all looking forward to the new waters, hope to see you on the water soon - Tight Lines, Terry J.R.
June 20 "Back at the Tail Race"
The fish have been shallow on the lower side and the "Narrows" have been producing the big scores. Plastics and live bait have done well while few have had fun with the Fly Rod and poppers.
Mid June
Young Blue jumped the tracks and saw Stu Korn and company make the 1st season trip into the edge of Algonquin. After a couple of warm days things turned cooler but the Small Mouth were there. Jeff and I guided a double trip and came up dozens of hefty 3 to 4 pound Smallies. A truly awesome trip came the following day while guiding Stu again and his buddy Allen Tobacman. We starting the morning slow along the North shores and spillways of Holden on the Ottawa but a change of tactics at 11:00 a.m. started us on a day to long remember. This was Bronze Back fishing at its best. Earlier in the week we caught numbers in the same areas but today we caught numbers and size. Over 35 fish over 3 pounds another 1/2 dozen were between 4 and 5 and one made 6 pounds 10 ounces! Boy did we take photo's.
June
Water levels are slowly going down and we can reach the docks without the the help of a boat ferry. Opening musky put a fury on the Chalk waters with nice 8 and 10 toothy critters taken by myself and Phil on the same day. I stayed with the husky Jerks and a big white spinner Bait while Phil thru the Buck Tails and trolled the center line - it all worked!
The following weekend found with in the boat with Austin Hewitt working in Ottawa. His family and i spent 3 Days exploring the Northern tributaries, Dumoins, Big Bears and Maraboo along with a trip on the eastern side of the River too. Pike, Walleye and Bass were all found shallow unerd 6 ft of water. We used some live bait but the usual plastics and Rapalla proved themselves again. Back into the Musky waters found Wally Morinto and his friend Dennis Gilpatric found the Musky rhythm this week on their 1st of two week trips scheduled again this year at the Mountain River Lodge. Peter and Doug Lemanski of Worcester Mass. took the big Walley this week at 31 inches and a hefty 12 pounds (Blue Foxes #4)
May 29th
Wow! The water has came up last night! We had to rescue the docks as levels jumped up over 18 inches in just two hours. What was looking to be a low river and spring fish has turned 180 degrees. Rain continues to fall and water temps are rising. only half the Walleye have spawned and have moved to deeper water. Some old cows are still holding to 10 and 12 foot off points and and strong current areas.
May 27
My new right hand on the River, "Director" Justin Charette and I broke away from our afternoon chores to tend to the calling waters of the River. A dozen Pre Spawn Small Mouth up to 3 1/2 pounds came in easily while just trying to hook up a couple walleye for diner - dark green road kill snozzer tube jigs. Two Northern Pike fell ( 28 and 35 inches) to six inch Rapallas in both gold/black and silver/black combinations. Not bad for an hour and half late afternoon fish. The Walleye were deep at about 35 to 40 feet so we didn't spend time on the drift or vertical jig.
MARK ONE - May 18th
A great day on the water for River Guide Mark Scott as he netted 11 pike from 5 to 18 pounds, a giant Channel Cat and a full limit of Walleye. First guided trip of the season ended in great success. Sierra, T.J. and Aaron all took their first fishes of the new season as well this past weekend too. It's back to putting boats together and opening up the remaining cabins, Dave is working on a few motors today and talking NASCAR. Time to get back at it, Tight Lines - Terry JR.
May 11, Happy Mother's Day
Opening Week End proved to be exceptional on the River. By the end of last month we thought we were going to have really high water to deal with but with no rain to speak of and a light tributary run off we will have lower water levels this spring. This early spring effect has made the Walleyes quite easy to locate as Mark, Steve, Jeff and I all had trips out front that all went very well. We are still putting our docks in and cleaning out boats and getting the property set up for another great season, the big kick off starts next weekend. We will be ready!
Tight Line - TC
April 25
The ice is off of all lakes and river systems, observations from the deck while looking across the River makes the sky look like it's sitting on the mountains both over and under. Dead still high water disturbed only by a few ducks and geese that have set up residence below the deck and on the point. Cabins are being hooked up with water and reopened slowly, while the pool and hot tub will be opened about three weeks from now. No fishing yet but the open water is quite inviting The first cast is coming soon.
April 15 th - Happy Birthday Michele!
Days of Thunder, April 4th 2006
As the Spring tries again and again to warm things up we are still dealing with cold nights that refreeze the River. This brings on the thunderous groans and cracks that continuously warp across and below the ice. The Rumbling is quite loud and can be heard from indoors. as we go to cabin to cabin preparing for our May opening it's in the back ground all the time. At least you know the breaking and shifting is coming soon. Mark has pulled off the back Algonquin lakes for the time being as ice levels are thinning and slush threatens. We are so looking forward to open water, Lake Trout opens in less than 2 weeks! I'll try to keep you informed, T.C.
Hey Folks, we know that your upset with the French but just remember that the rest of Canada gave up on them 130 years ago.
"Natures Call"
March 23 -All shows are finished!
We have wrapped up another winter tour on the roads traveling to sport shows and seeing old friends and making new. As the war in upon us, I have received numerous e - mails and all our thoughts and prayers are for the men and women overseas. Thank you all for the great letters, they are greatly appreciated and a nice distraction from the current events. Just under 5 weeks will see that first cast on the water and we are all so looking forward to it. The Season is shaping up to be a busy one and we look forward to seeing and fishing with you all again soon. Take care of yourselves and each other.
Tight Lines, TC
March 21 first day of Spring
Then there were Wolves
We counted 9 different wolves crossing the river yesterday. The Ottawa is frozen and the wolves come across in small groups from the presquille's to feed along the south shores where winter food has been strategically placed. The River Lodge is still engulfed in snow but we have had a good bit of rain lately and the snow is starting to diminish - should be a high of 38 degrees today. It looks like we are going to have high water through out the early fishing season.
Feb18th 2006
The Big show is over. Yes Harrisburg ended with the storm of the century and sent us heading north on the edge of the northeaster that many of you are digging out of now. So far we have missed the heavy snow at home but we came back to minus 20 degrees. The snowmobiles don't even want to start and I had to change the battery in my truck, find the plug ins, and extension cords for warming the block heaters. I went to the grocery store this morning and the parking lot was filled with running cars. No one dared to turn off their car heaters while shopping, can't blame them, its cold. Any way the sport shows were great and we got to see a lot of friends and the 2006 season is shaping up to be a very busy year. Expect some new special features added to the Mountain River Lodge this summer as Dad and I have a few new projects going on for this spring. For now it's all inside work until the weather breaks.
Sniff, Scurry, Hem and Haw
It's all about change, finding the cheese and moving with it. We are well into the New Year now and I'll tell you all it's pretty cold up here. Jan, 10th 03. Picked up another 6 inches of the white stuff last night and it was minus '20 C or minus '3 F this morning - very cool. The River has frozen over now and the Bite is on now in the Park for speckled trout, so the ice shack is out and we're looking forward to fresh walleye this weekend too!
Dec 30th 200 - ( Longitude 79 degrees by Latitude 46 degrees)
I hope everyone has had a great Christmas and are having a happy Hanukah! Ice Fishing is starting and the Snowmobiling is awesome. Shows start very soon now that January is almost here and we are all looking forward to seeing old friends again. First show will see us in Edison, NJ and then the road trip begins. Right now it's a cool 7 degrees with just under a foot of snow. All reports from the sunrise strip of the deck on the river has been moved well indoors and close to the wood stove. Michele and I broke out the snowshoes yesterday and tracked deer out back, the Park migration ran late this year and they are still passing through to the feeding yards in Petawawa. Well, 2003 approaches and we all wish you a Happy New Year!
Thanks for reading and please stay in touch, Tight Lines - Terry Carlin JR
Sorry folks but about 6 weeks of information has been lost by a computer crash. To roughly catch you all up I'll say we had an awesome September bear season and the walleye bite was terrific. Then there was a great Moose hunt that gave us a couple of the huge noble beasts! November has come and the snow has already started, ( came so fast I didn't have time to rake the lawn, Darn!) soon Michele and I will getting our winter exercise by snow shoeing the back forty and Terry SR and Diane will be heading south shortly. Kelly and Ed are expecting their first child in June - should be a busy month! Everyone up here is healthy and doing fine My buddy Roger and I along with Dave have been exploring the Laurentians again this year and have established some new Moose territory that offers Bow, Cross Bow, Gun and Muzzle Loading seasons - Next Fall will be fun along with a lot of hard work. The Lodges are all closed up now and the new news paper is in the works so if anyone should have a picture or letter for us it would be greatly appreciated.
We wish everyone the Best of Thanksgiving and hope everyone is well and spending time with their families and friends over the holiday.
A Special condolence to the Families of two different fishing Legends that I have had the privilege to cast a line with over the years at K/O, With the passing of Pat White and Billy Westmorland please know they will be greatly missed but fortunately we have some awesome memories.
November, 2002 - Terry JR, Tight Lines Always
Observations from the deck
Hitchhikers guide to the Ottawa River and Area
Wed. Aug. 28
As we wind down our last week of August and prepare for the up coming Bear season (had two on the hood of truck last night) - I 'm looking across the River this morning and enjoying a great view of the Laurentians, high blue skies and placid waters. Mark is Guiding Holden Lake today along with Steve while Phil has chosen an East Island tour. Dave and I are sanding off the edges to be sure of a very successful Bear season starting next week. Temps have been in the mid to high 70's during the day while the evenings have dropped to the mid 50's - good sleeping weather!
Chris Mc Cotter's group of 20 have visited us for the summers end again and have reported great catches and the coveted silver paddle is still awaiting the first angler to record the great Canadian Grand Slam of Sm. mouth, Lg. mouth Walleye, Northern Pike - The only thing missing is the Musky, but it should be finished today. Oh and the "other" category ( this includes, Drum, Sturgeon, Gar Pike, Channel Cats, Red Horse, White Fish and whatever!) will soon come also.
This will be one of my finishing reports for 2002 season of Mountain River Reports of the Ottawa Valley - information on the area will soon be transferred to ko-riverlodge.com - It has been a different and interesting season to say the least. After our Fall Bear season we have some more Autumn fishing trips followed by a late September search for the noble Moose. Some Small Game and Duck seasons will take us to years end at the beginning of October. If you find yourself traveling in the Northern Algonquin Region drop in for a coffee or diner at the "Restaurant at the end of the universe - err, I mean at the end of the Bass Lake Road, or down by the River and see my office overlooking the water.
Well it's been fun, - 17 years of Tight Lines,
SO LONG AND THANKS FOR ALL THE FISH !
TERRY CARLIN JR.
(And no I have never heard of anyone by the name of Douglass Adams)
As identified in the Hitchhikers Guide and the Encyclopedia Britannica - the Ottawa River and the Valley - " Mostly Harmless " T. C.
P.S. on a finale note, thanks John Perciasepe for the fresh Fig fruit breakfasts, They were great!
Wednesday Aug. 7, 2002 - 9:20 am after a windy and delayed departures on most trips yesterday, we were greeted at the River docks by anxious crews. The Ottawa River has laid down nicely with a slow westerly wind. It's a cloudless sky, mirrored by the River and only separated by the verdant green Mountains of the Laurentians. Expected high today is about 75 degrees. - Hey, special congratulations to Jimbo as he won the Musky tournament on the Chalk yesterday! Great news for the later season arriving guests, Unfortunately because of the tightening security measures on base properties we were not able to access 7 lakes in the military grounds. Now we can (finally) - and Allan and Mike Underwood ( 5 year Mt. River Vets ) will be the first ones on Lake Montgomery since August last year. Targeting Small Mouth, Walleye and Musky - should be great stories tonight! It's Fish Fry today and the weather is perfect. I'm heading out from this amazing office view looking over the River and heading out fishing for the rest of morning. Hope to see you on the water soon, Tight lines T.C.
P.S. Hey Jan, I'm looking forward to seeing you and Chet next week!
It's been very busy on the water folks and the reports have been hard to keep up with. Let's just say it has been very warm and the fishing as awesome as ever. It's already August and the Deep River Summerfest doubled the towns population in just one weekend. I probably shouldn't get too detailed and technical about local Ottawa Valley traditions but Michele took time out this past weekend to take our kids to a cow patty gamble. Yes it's true, in old Valley fashion you buy a square on a pasture and wait to see where the a newly released cow drops its patty, and well ....winner takes all. ( I'm staying with the Nascar pool myself! )
Back to Fishing Now!
Sunday July 14th 7:00 am
I cannot see the mountains, or even the river from the deck this morning. A heavy mist has encompassed the waters again and trips going out are being held off for another hour. Lake fishing is fine but river navigation is by GPS only. Trips are mostly out front with Mark heading west and Phil is taking his tour down to island in the east. The Pool is at 90 degrees and the Hot Tub is at 100. Another day in the mid 80's with high blue skies. A lite rain last night has made everything a little greener and water levels have slightly rose. It's race day and Ryan has the Pole position (25 extra points for me!) I know where I'll be this afternoon but his morning I'm fishing the 2nd Pres'quil.
A very hard rain in this early morning of July 17th has gotten trips out late. Catches yesterday said to be quite well with both Steve's and Mark's crew landing good 6 and 7 pound Walleye's. Both the Candy Cane Stack Flats and the Tail Race have been producing very well. At 10:43 am, observations from my office (the pool deck) is showing clearing skies (finally) Temps are at 72 and it looks like it will be a great day. Dave and I are going fishing. Tight Lines, T.C.
Thursday July 11 - Fire In The Sky
Quebec forest fire about 1000 miles away near James Bay have blown smoke through the Ottawa Valley, no fire bans in our area but up North it has been very dry. The Haze on the River proves those water bombers have their work ahead of them. In the mean time there has been a lot of canoeing in and about the Algonquin region these past few days. Terry Stone reports incredible Bass catches on Lucky and Diane's Lakes along with the Canyon tour. 1/2 dozen 4 and 5 pounds along with many more in the 2 pound class have made some great days on the water. Terry's nephew's Jack and Josh caught two of the biggest ones while dangling a worm on the surface with only two feet of line out! We have a tremendous dragonfly hatch and the bass a jumping, dark colors in the "Road Kill Green" and Pumpkin seed are the #1's this week. - Terry JR
July 9th
Observations from the Stern.
At 9:10 this morning I have company on the deck with 10 Canadian Geese a Mallard hen and 3 ravens. ( Oh and Bob and Ileene Marks too.) They all join me with a gorgeous view of the River and Mountains. A little later report this morning as we (Dave, Tyler and I) had a pretty good Tuesday morning rush at the docks. Everyone is out and I just finished taking my water readings. It's 72 presently and should reach about 84 degrees later on today. Afternoon thunder storms yesterday have raised the water a little and took me off the water early. Before leaving, Illeen managed a nice 4 pound Small mouth on the edge of the Bear River waterfalls bay. The bite stayed fairly shallow and is expected the same today. Today is a green on green day for Michele and I and Tee Off is at 1:45, I'll try to get back soon. -T.C.
Fourth of July - happy independence day
Another week of awesome weather is happening. Bill Rust along with Ken Edwards have easily netted100 plus bass days on the last thee trips out on Tall Pines, James, and Neil Young Lakes - all on tube jigs and small twisters. Several big Northern Pike stories have surfaced with C#1, while landing nice 16 inch bass a Northern decided to take the catch away at boat side. The 4 foot Pike wouldn't let go of the Bass but refused to get in the net as well. The number 2 cabin share a similar story yesterday with a Walleye as the bait. Never think your lures are too small! It's 7:26 am on this independence day morning, the River is calm again with a light west breeze and highs in the mid 80's to come. Some of the river tributaries have slowed down with the usual post season spawn wrapping up but the action on the lakes and main River is fast and furious. Both Guides Steve and Mark have also recorded great Musky action on the Chalk and lower river this week also. Tight Lines, Terry JR
June 30 - 02 - TC - Mt. R
Dave's last trip on Friday got off to late start with a couple of mechanical difficulties but after moving from truck to truck to 4 wheeler and down into a little no - name lake. The first Rapala didn't hit waters surface till 1:00 pm and the first cast nailed a 3 pound Bass! Small Mouth up to 5 pounds were caught that afternoon with many more in the 2 to 3 pound range caught photographed and released along with some jumbo perch.
Mike and Pete Thomas report awesome catches on the Fly with 6 and 7 weight rods. Their week brought them into over 500 bass and even a 36 inch pike on the same set up. Great, great week!
Old home week is approaching with more experience rods than ever as everyone in camp has been up before. I'm looking forward to it, Looking out across river this morning at 8:23 am - it's calm waters with a slight breeze out of the North West, Blue skies and a high of 78 degrees expected, See you on the water, TC
Six Feet Under
No not HBO but the strike zone on Bass and Northerns right now.
That incredible mist from last evening is back this morning. (June 26) At 8:37 am it has come in so thick that when you look at the Mountains across the River in Quebec, you would think they separated overnight. There are a wide variety of trips today - longest consecutive years running guest (27years) Mike Thomas and his son Pete are voyaging to the Musky lakes for the day where they have done extremely well all week. Mark Stellini and his kids, Rachel and Steve are venturing into the Gunning waters west of camp, where their dad 1st fished 11 years ago. Rachel caught a nice 7 lb Lg Mouth off the docks last nite during the fish fry, go girl! Other trips have Dave guiding across the tracks with Bob Reimnitz and his buddy John. Mark has had an incredible week of walleye fishing, his day with the Keller's netted countless walleye's with many 5 to 7 lbs. Look it's 8:42 ( I write slow) but the mist is lifting again. (it is mist - Terry Sr. says "We don't have FOG in Canada!" Well I'll tell you folks, it's MISTIER than hell right now!
T.C. J.R.
The Mountain River Experience
June 25, 02
I'm trying to start keeping up with reports weekly now, the season is awesome and prime time is now - it's been mid 70's and mixing light showers with off and on sun the last couple of days. The water is still quite high on all lakes and the River with water temps kicking in at 52 degrees in the bays while the center River is at 48. I've had a few excellent trips already and Mark Scott along with Dave have had the majority both above and below the dam and a few interior Algonquin Park trips too. Chris and Sam gave me some great "Brochure Shots" for next years paper while fishing the upper tributaries of Holden. Guides, Steve Barlow and Jeff Wilkins took Jeff Gordon's crew for some great tours that netted some huge pike and even a naked chicken. (yes there is story there) My dad guided the golf course with Skip and Uncle and beat me two strokes.
Big Pause - I'm writing this on the deck over looking the River, and I just had to get my camera for a few pictures. It's 8:11 pm and their is an awesome mist (not the Steven King kind) advancing across the Ottawa - wow how many offices have this view?
This is, as usual one of the hottest times of the year prior to when the weeds start surfacing. Temps are in the high 80's with no real humidity. A few early showers this afternoon brought most boats in early but things cleared and the K/O fish fry went A.O.K.
As most of the avid report readers (Um, does anyone read this stuff?) may have noticed Dave is working out of the K/O Lodge on the Lake, while I'm now at the Mountain River property. (early retirement for me) I still guide and fish often but you will find me dock side, pool side, garage side and here on the Deck writing weekly reports. It is an older property down here and it keeps me busy, but oh what a view. I'm looking forward to seeing old friends and new in 02. Tight Lines, T.C. The Northern Lights have seen strange sights
June Nine Two Zero Zero Two!
Still here.
There are strange things done in the midnight sun
By the men who moil for gold;
the arctic trails have their secret tales
that would make your blood run cold;
The Northern Lights have seen strange sights ,
but the queerest they have ever seen,
Was the time twelve came together, to spread the ashes of my buddy
Larry Landes, On the Island of Sullivan - he rests in peace a true friend
Always and Forever.
TC
Hey keep the Silver Side Up Folks, and I hope that we'll see you on the water soon.
June Seven, - Zero Two
Keeping the Silver Side Up!
A little from Nickel Back , and now we are lighting up both Muskey and Walleye on the Chalk River and the Ottawa. Shallow with the lightest or no weight is the ticket. The River is just about 10 days late into the season Temp wise with 48 degrees below and 50 above - the Chalk is sitting pretty at 65 degrees and the Toothy Critters are turned on! Any spinners with a silver side has been the best on the Muskeys with a few Rapala's and Jerk baits coming in a close second.
Silver Up, Always - T.C.
May 26 th
It's a little on the cool side up here with a high today of 14 C or 48 F. Water levels are slowly dropping and surface Temps are around 41 F. below the dam and 43 F. above. The last couple days have seen great pike and bass action but the walleye bite has slowed as they are still pre spawn. A couple days on from now with the water temperature increasing should prove quite promising for the Eye's to turn on. The Candy Cane Stack along with the "Narrows" and the "Presqui'les" have been doing the best, shortly we will be focusing on more current and point related areas. Get ready folks as opening Musky will be here June 1st and all the guides are are waiting with great expectations. (it's been seven months since they have seen a Husky Jerk, Harasser or a Spinner Bait) - The season is upon us and I look forward to seeing old friends and new again very soon. Oh yes, and those early troopers coming up next week - Bring top water lures, the home lake is awesome now. Torpedoes. Zara Spooks and and every thing on the Fly is working!
Tight Lines, Terry Carlin JR.
April 6, 2002
Sugar bushes are are presently cooking up some great maple syrup as cool nights and wonderfully warm days are now upon us. Snowmobiling is finished for another season and we look, so, so, much for open water. Points on the River are opining up slowly now and the snow is less than a foot here but the Laurentiens still have 3 plus in places. Soon enough we will celebrating our annual May, " Black Fly Bash!" Hope to see you all on the River soon! - Terry JR.
Late March
Winter came back to hit us one last time. March comes and goes as a lion. There is more snow on the ground now than we have had all winter. The river and lakes are still frozen tight but the days are warming. Michele and I continue our snow shoeing expeditions in and around Algonquin Park and the experiences are most rewarding. Tracking Deer and seeing the impressions of an Owl's wing upon the snow as it lifts a mouse from the surface is most remember able. Dave reports several Moose sightings around the lodge properties this past week and Mark continues his forays into the back lakes for Speckles, Splake and White Fish through the ice. Now that the shows are finished, it's time to turn our attention to preparations for the new season. It looks to be
just what happened last week, just skip the pic's and scroll down to the date section below, thanks.
The following are some awesome photo's and reports on this region, We'll try to keep it as updated as possible given our busy fishing season and all. Sunsets, Barbecue - Fish Fry's and the latest C P R
( Caught - Photo-Released ) pictures of the local trophies.
Hey, Happy 4 th of July folks.
Cal (RIPPEN) Huntzinger takes the walleye up a notch. Pushing Yogi's crew out for the season biggest walleye which now stands at 31 inches. He just brought in a pair of matching hogs early this afternoon between the days thundershowers for some pictures.
Five More days out. June 29th
The last five Days started my trips with opening Bass season on the Back Lakes and easily boating over 100 Bronze backs and another 35 Large mouth on the same lake was just awesome. Frank La Luma and company attended me into the forestry reserve for the ultimate in bass fishing openings. The same week lead us into the Quecbec backwaters for Northerns and walleye a some great Small Mouths reaching 5 pounds and 22 inches.
The musky fishing slowed for us the day picked to fish the Chalk River system but we still managed a few Musky photos and with plenty of follows. Willie Joe and Paul set the record day catch this week with boat 12 and 8 more up to the boat ( they are working on 22 years of trips with us now)
A little rain this Morning on the 26 th of June But now that the " Narrows" are open the Sanctuary is just amazing for some dumb fish. No tricky presentations needed today just getting some soft plastic onto the water was enough for fast action. Mike Thomas Our longest running consecutive guest of 32 years even landed a 52 inch Sturgeon up here they day we went as well.
When Small Mouth Attack!
The best phot shoot of the season was with Dan Coglan (DanO) and his buddy Civ as we caught and photographed a dozzen Bass on one flat - all over 20 inches. The Day saw over the 100 mark again but sign in to www.fishguys.org and clickonto the "Canada Fishing Report" for an idea of what we kind of day we had.
Just Pike Fishing June 15th / 06
25 Northerns is all we went for and got hardheadedly as we tracked into a smaller 200 acre lake and through In Lines, Spinner Baits and Slashers. it was enjoyable picking on Apache' Lake while we mostly slung lures at timber and rock all morning before heading out onto the Ottawa for the afternoon. All ranged between 24 and 34 inches, no monsters but very fun fish to catch.
May 30th - Fishes to beat- The records are set early in the Season.
Yogi's crew (Dave Sosna and company) have set the Bar high again to start off our season. The Pike to beat thus far is a 49 1/4 inch Northern caught, photographed and released near the docks was caught mid afternoon while rigging up to go Walleye fishing. There crew also landed some of the biggest catches of walleye as well. I got some soon released fish pic's of Eye's pushing the 30 inch mark.
Terry Jr.
April is looking sweet.
Open water is just now beginning on the River. Our first trip up into the Mountains across the way will be for Speckled Trout while Mark Scott and Steve Barlow are set to do the same near the Park boarder. Steve S. and I will open up his camp about 3 miles into the Laurentians near Cashe' Lake. Looking out the window the Little Carlin Creek is swelling nicely and what's left of the snow is quickly leaving us. We can scratch one last ride on the snowmobiles this week end and then it's 4 wheeler time.
At the shows now!
We will see our friends and future guests in Harrisburg, February 4 to 12th -
There are lot more stories to be told but Michele is the editor and she shakes her head, then, deletes and shakes her head again and says no one will understand this stuff.
Nov. 15 / 05
Trips out West
A little traveling out to Colorado this Fall with good friends was in order to recharge the batteries after another busy season but we need to thank all our friends for a very successful year on and around the River. Thanks.
Close of the season as the cabins are shut down and the Fall colours have come and gone we would like to take this time to thank everyone who made the 2005 season such an incredible year. We saw some awesome catches and had absolutely great times and memorable outings on and off the water. We won't talk too much about the those finale races though, - right folks '06 is is coming!
October Run Muskies and Walleyes on the River were the sought after fish of the Month. and we connected on Huskie Jerks and Rappala's along with some red and white Chug R's.
September
Warm spells and high water found the Smallies deep off the points and called up on deep Divers and vertical jigging on the elevated and craggy shoals at about 20 feet. From the fish to the hunt and back to the fish again, the seasons change sometimes just quick enough.
August '05
Just couldn't ask for better weather.
Days Above and Beyond on Upper and Lower Rivers - June 23/05
First non fish Fry of the year was Awesome!
Mark ran 3 while Jeff and Steve handled a couple and I caught up on old waters for four trips this past week. It all saw some great Walleye, Pike and, Musky and of course Small Mouth action during very sunny and warm days this past week. Mike Thomas split hairs on the fly and worked his white Muddlers along with Black and Blue Lizards from the Mattawa River to the Barron Canyon this week also. Last count for him was well over 400 fish in the boat along with one Sturgeon at 51 inches and 36 pounds! One more day tossing 'Gulp's' and working Rapala's on the sand is in store for me tomorrow and I'm hoping for the promised slight North West breeze to compliment the days outing. Cast and Wind - things are looking good. Quick note, Seymore's 5 - 12 oz Bronze Back was beaten by John's 5 Lb - 15 oz a day later but there is no competition that group - right? Sure.
The Narrows are Open!
After a long winter's ice and then a new 30 day spawning sanctuary the narrows have opened in full force with a lot of Dumb fish to prove it. It was easily the high light of the past few days of casting As the Bridge and Penn Creek produced big fish along with the numbers too.
In The Heat - June 18 / 05
Yes we had the extreme warm weather up here too. The fronts, mid afternoon storms and gushing tributaries really focused the Walleyes and the Small Mouth Bass which gave all groups some exceptional fishing all last week. Conte's group alone had no problem dropping fifty plus eye's into the boat in one lazy afternoon that was topped off with 4 and 5 pound Bass in the River spill ways. Mark Stellini and company share some time on the water with me also this past week that saw us lite up the Bass action and netted walleyes up to 8 pounds. This has been an amazingly productive spring fishery so far and all things look to continue. I have four more trips lined up this week and I plan on fishing from Maraboo Holden to The Chalk and Black Bays - reports to follow.
Huskey Jerks and Rapalas along with a Spitt'N Image were the lures of choice
Fourth Street and the River June 7/05
Catching Walleye's, Awesome Walleyes on the Flop with a Yamamoto and a Drop Shot and a rigged Gulp. Also had to explain, fishing Rip Rap by "Ripping Rapala's" off the rocks of Mackey Bay to Tom Dasher after returning with a 4- 10 and a 4 - 15 Eye. Four days of weather in the 90's with mid days of 1/2 hour storms made the River and feeder Creeks in flood conditions that the Fish love to move into. Bill's 8lb 2 oz walleye was the biggest with un counted limits in the 17 to 24 inch range has made for some great days.
A Day with Bill - Just like it was 15 years ago on our first fishing trip on the early June season. A good day of remembrance.
I wish that you could see what I see when it's gone.
Happy Easter Folks! 2005
The shows were great despite some bad weather here and there. the new year looks quite promising even with a good foot and a half of the white stuff on the ground up here. We are still doing some ice fishing and both Mark and Steve report good catches through the ice for lake trout and splakes.
New in camp this season will be a couple of new cottages started on the river front next week as the snow allows progress. The first cast to open water is still six weeks away but the local talk sounds like it's starting tomorrow. I did manage to wet my line between the Suffern and Hamburg sport shows this season on the Cattaraugus and South branch of N.Y. State that netted Scott and I, 4 nice Steelheads ranging 6 to 9 pounds. The water was quite cold and freezing eye tips and lines made for some work but was well worth the experience.
Happy Holidays Folks! Dec. 21, 2004
The shows will be starting soon and we are looking forward to seeing everyone soon.
November 6, 2004 " what is past was the prologue" Gravy day is here!
Congratulations Kurt Bush, but under the old point system, # 24 would have 5 now. But what a great race to the finish and well worth watching the finale ten.
Season's end for fishing. Wishing everyone a great Thanksgiving.
We closed the year with some great walleye fishing after another great moose hunt. The eye's were in the Fall feeding frenzy off the point out front and on the humps as they moved up the river and feeding with river currents, easy limits with good size and well, now we are done. The Small Mouth bite was also in top form as we landed 3 of the best I have had since the Spring. The moose hunt ended with us filling all three tags in just two days of hunting. Two nice Bulls and a Cow with great company - their will be some to go with the non fish fries next year again! tonight is a Moose Loin dinner at the Stewart Camp and I'm looking forward to hear how the hunting stories have changed. Yes, and I got my Buck yesterday with the help of son "spotter", T.J. and my trackers, my daughter Sierra, and my youngest son Aaron. ( we didn't have to go far from home and I got them on the bus for school on time!)
GPS's, Work! weather following a troll line or finding your way back to the spike camp, always trust them. Terry Sr.'s Longitude and latitude map on the River has paid off incredibly this year for putting folks right on the Spot.
An evening at the camp.
Nice to see the boy's and plan our strategy for the gun season. you have to take a step back in time and imagine the old camps of Maine - you have too step back in time. But the camp is real and we know where the hidden key is and where and how to get the central wood stove started .
The "Hunt" - Sort of sounds med-evil doesn't it?
A cook, a guide, a caller and a guest, made for a terrific start of a Fall season. Moose's called in and exchanges of arrows with little frost and extremely warm temperatures. the hunt was on and we had some fun and surprises. Thanks Jason and John for sharing the experience. The Laurentian Mountains Land and Fisheries gave up some great animals for us to see and hear first hand. The excitement was best said in the "Quote of the week", when when Roger said, "They were everywhere!" -"We were surrounded!" - I love this time of year even with the high temps and no or little rain. (better weather than the summer) The leaves are changing and the Walleye are biting on the River in this late September, no traffic on the water ways, the River is yours!
Observations from the deck, and the back trails of Algonguin.
Sometimes when you work with real friends you know when you would like to meet these folks on the trail, again -before the clearing at the end of the pass.
Back tracking a Bear Trail
A simple non mathematical calculation of a bear coming in TOO LATE! Don't watch his kitchen table, don't get to close to his bed room, but find the living room space in between, and "bang", you have your beer, I mean Bear. Too easy Pauly! ( thanks for coming with your truck this time). And Mike, Colin will not put down that GPS you gave him. Ever lost and never found, - the Colin. and the story *of him and the not too friendly bear!
The Stories this week of Gene And Roy - (REALLY) our friends from Rochester N.Y. filled all tags and the Cochrane and co. did amazing with the Flint locks and home made long Bows! 6 out of 7ain't too bad for the five day stay. The muzzle loading 101 course was greatly appreciated and the 1st week as usual was filled with a great hunt in between a great Pig Roast, Walleye and Moose cook out a couple days prior to the opening had all hands shaking and knowing each other before the first stand was sit on and guns sighted in. And Jesse ( with out a range finder went to the trouble of catching an inch worm and set him down in the direction of of the bait and patiently counted out his steps in that direction to know the exact distance, only Jesse could do this.
Best Quote of the week, "Now this is is like old times again, just Great!" Bill DeLaney Pittsburgh P.A.
Fire in the Sky - a story to be told at the shows this winter.
Hunting season for the northern Dark Bruins has arrived, and our opening gambit turned out very well with a good take on the Big Um's. ( yes John) So under sunny skies and mid night rains we did very well ( despite Jesse's theatrics ) " What the @/&*!" - Jim, that was way too easy and Coca Cola Bill's Last night take of a "Big Um!" was not the the first, but worth waiting for. (#16 right?), time goes by fast from our first two tire blow out in Achry, long walk out and some had the gall to eat your cookies too. - This weeks Snapping jaws, trees laid down (not like in Florida ) but still stirring non the less, has made the last couple of the weeks hunt most interesting. Best story told was from Chris Shoemacker, and will be under the chapters of " Noodles and Oodles" & " How Do You Like ME Now!" *See Chapter 9 and 10
Fly Inn's can be most provocative, to say the least.
It's alright to camp out, but not in a Holliday Inn's Parking Lot!
I have another saved file for the book!
Write about what you know. (So I'll not write too much)
Thanks for the e - mail Lee But who is the Points Leader NOW!
Life in a Northern Town
The Life of Ryan - on the River
"So am I in the book"? He asked. As I hit my first golf ball into the water, and out of the Sand. (My morning work out) outside my office. "Not yet," I said - "You just haven't screwed up enough yet"... And just days later when I finished Chapter 8, ( pun intended) we sent him on his 1st of two drop offs into the park. He screwed up and is now in the book! Most books of history are about wars and screw ups, not enough about fishing and and hook ups and just the outdoors.
Al Lash, you brought back 20 year memories, and when folks ask me, " How long have you worked here?" I still say " All morning".
Aug. 27
Diane's Birth Day and a great day on the River Front.
Vroom, Vroom, Vroom, I Love this bar, but ... I really Love NASCAR, just,... come as you are.
An Extra Special thanks to my Mountain River Rangers, last week that stopped fast traffic, gave fines for littering and just good camp management - (we split the fine proceeds) Kids in camp are cool.
Between a rock and a soft place. excellent photo's sent up this week , thanks folks!
Bend it like Beckham, ( all puns intended ) Don't know if you have seen it, but it was about going the extra ten feet or in Frank's and my case, ten miles, (long hike) but we do what needs to be done to make things work, work well and always worth while.
Coffee with a friend Yesterday. - I do not do the down town too much ( except when I see Earl ) but the other day I sat with an old buddy having a coffee down town at the open outside "Cafe' O Lay" and decided I really was not in a that much of rush that I couldn't hear a tale or two, and the people you meet when they see you out of your element! Well, I should get out more often, but it is tough to leave the River, but sometimes you have too for a Laurentian View Ice cream with the kids.
Aug 23 rd 2004 - Colorado and Willow leaf spinners on the mark right now for the Muskies
Observations from the Deck.
While driving back from the Bay yesterday, the wash lines in the sky were incredible - against a mountain back drop, the river and a lake. Just a little time out to enjoy the view. Sometimes you take things for granted and it takes someone else to point it out for you. Thanks Cliff, cabin 14 and Grace too, see you next year with the 14 grand kids..
Time on the back waters, on the River and Lakes is good, fishing is swell but the company with, is what really makes a trip.
A close friend of my wife past away last week, my mom turned 30 ish, and a best man of Ed's died this past week at 32 years, life is not fair, Just kind of makes you think, time is still on our side - enjoy, we are still reading- God is, and God Bless but believe and know -.we are on the same side, same page and.... here we are... I apologize for the inconvenience...
Bristol -They may say I'm 24 but the next driver is the 48, or #6 (my favorites). Number 8 Won.
August Ending and the Mc Cotter group is coming ( why do they put that darn "S" key next to the "D"?) I hate re typing, - keep the open side up, Folks, looking forward to see you in camp soon, some folks do not get my humor... and well, I like it. Butterfly Effect.
Rainy Days and Thursdays, and a fish called Wanda. (my dad didn't get that either)
Campfires Held and bad jokes told and , good friends found.
Under the Mid Night Sun, it has just begun...
There is a place where adventures unfold, sometimes it's hard work, or not but what you catch and what you see, is what it is all about and well the journey too. I am Still trying to get my rail tracker back Terry Stone! Tight Lines, T.C.
The week of Kyle's -Sometime around mid August and no dates need specified.
It was a great week and I really appreciated the kids, I mean "young men" in camp. we had 38 folks on the roster and with Michele being gone I had to fend for myself. Thank you Gerry and Teresa for cooking me hamburgers and all the good company. ( the Liver and Onions, well I have to draw the line somewhere) sorry Megan. Fish Fry on the River Side is on next year! I had to take off and miss a day on the River, as a friend of mine took ill and I wanted to say Hi and give her a book. Strange thing is the last two books I read were "Tuesdays with Maurry" and the "Five people you meet in Heaven" - Not good books to take when you go and see a friend in the hospital. Now the "Hitch Hikers Guide to the Galaxy", National Geographic, and the "Zoo Keeper's Daughter" are a better choice. Love you Kim, and you know that.
Well the Northern Lights have seen strange sights, but the strangest a guide could ever see, was the night we put Jesse, yes Jesse up that old darn tree. And What we heard told would make your blood run cold, but we will hear it again and again, you'll see. And that is what the hunt is about, right, - good friends, stories told (warm or cold) and the adventure that is soon to be. Sept. One - so, so looking forward to it!
Trust your guide , but remember, there are times when not to
believe him, -, like when his lips are moving .
Thank you, Colonel M. W. Blackledge, U.S. Marine Corps
The Flag you raised in honor of the Carlin's and Staff on July 5 th at Camp Commando, Kuwait, is held high here now. The K/O and Mountain River Lodge is greatly appreciated, Thank you Frank, it is nice to have you home. Stars and Stripes, T.C. - Always Faithful
Gulp - Fish eat them! Also Senko's, Do nothing, Wacky Worms and Jersey Rigs- they are all working!
Dog Patch,
Hi Murray, Thanks for visiting, the coffee is on at 6:30 a.m.
If anyone really reads this stuff, let me know, T.C.
The Walleye bite is on right now! Ask Jimbo and company as they tore up the lower River, found Dad's hump and limited easily on each outing. Thanks Randy and Linda Aman for the great two week stay and the time on the Dumoine River trip and the photo with the kids is, well ... priceless. thanx
August 16th, 2004
No Secrets Lost
Hey, do not tell too many people about our little piece of "paradise found" along the Ottawa River, but between you and me, the plastic Gulp, and the Spittin Image - well we are kicking the fishes butts!
An evening with the Pleacieds! a great meteor shower came across our Northern skies the last couple of nights which rivaled the Northern Lights and made for great conversation and viewing while also enjoying the Hot Tub and other constellations. And then, drinking in the sound of wolves from across the waters edge. This was Good Stuff! No this was better, It was the "Right Stuff"
Non Fish Fries!
Yes Lee, they are happening every week now, sometimes twice. You started something. They have been totally AWESOME! and a special thanks to some good conversation with the Flew party and their ten day stay from the U.K. ( couldn't understand half of that was said and they speak English, well - Welch ) but we had some good jokes, great walleye, bad card tricks and Awesome moose meat. ( yes that was for you Lee.) How goes that NASCAR anyway. Michele is happy after Watkin's Glen. She is still the points leader in the house. I would like to thank the Hendricks folks, Chevrolet, Dupont, Pepsi,. Ridingers, Bass tracker, Ranger and ........ etc.
Wing Man Aug. 8th / 04
It is always good to have a wing man, he looks after you, covers your back and catches that ace at 2:00 high. Well two a clock is a good time to head home for before an early guide trip, but I did drag my wing man with me and we had ( the fog of war) a good Summer fest weekend that was followed up by a great day on the Dumoine, Holden, and Bass Lakes. (Coyote' Lake is doing very good too! ) We have to re name it " Ugly" as my partner "Young Mark" did his best but took a fall on the way in. Everyone is A O Kay at the K/O River Lodge and we are back into the fishing big time now, And I'm still looking for a good wing man that will direct a cast, tie a line and take his buddy in... at the appropriate time.
Zoo Keepers Daughter
This book is due out soon and is a must read, and if anyone has read these chronicles of fishing trips in a Northern town, will know of the story of the "Moose and the Caboose" Thanks Laurie & Doug Day, Space Farms, (Worlds largest privately owned Zoo) and all of Sussex County N.J. for the the great times had. "For a fisherman, he is one heck of an accountant." Your words, not mine, but repeated several times.
Rain and a little wind today but the docks are tight. and Steve and Matt are guiding above and below the river systems today. Collin is setting sights for bear season so I'll type and plan the trips for tomorrow.
Riddles in the Light - End of July
What has a mouth but never speaks, has a bed but never sleeps?.... the river
Another nice trip up river. Moose seen, Fish Caught and the light in the eyes of " Fisherman in Training" made for some life long memories. Jeff and I had the pleasure of guiding The Houser's -Thanks Leon , Tim Houser and Company for a very swell time. Hobbit riddles and freshly cooked fish mixed the day nicely between the catches.
Klack Attack, July ending - Ladies rule, I need not say anymore. Well I just don't know where to begin. wink
Rowers of the Aug. Long Week End
Thanks Vincent, Hi Brenda, (Barbara) and Wendy - I'm still paying. My hand was all Ace's and Eights that night.
We had some great fishing again this week with the klackowicz party that Steve, Mark, Jeff and myself set up for the fantastic 7. Normally a grand slam is the big 4 - " a Musky a Walleye, a Pike and a Bass" But we managed the Super 7 with a couple of Muskies, Pike, Walleye, Sm. Mouth, Lg Mouth, Channel Cat. Blue Gill, Gar pike and well that's 8. That's right we don't count the Rockies. Good times had by all.
Tail ends!
June 27
The tail end of June fishing prior to opening bass kept up the big, big action along with the walleye hook. Ron and Lee along with Mike and Cathy Ridinger ( too many stories that can not be told) I could be poetic but some( including my wife) folks do not understand my jokes and say I'm just not funny, Tim. Anyway the boys found lure, the where and the presentation, and the walleye holes through out the narrows and managed a few days on the Lakers and Muskie waters too. They are still up and enjoying a 3rd week of fishing already this year. Bass counts are into the the couple hundreds for Bill Rust and Ken Edwards with only two days of fishing in this week. Mike Thomas fished up with over 500 for his stay. (those were fat round pike, crappy and blue gills) and this month has shown us a mix of warm days with very cool nights. A couple of midnight storm fronts this past week helped stir up the fishing too. Pike over 42 inches are credited to six anglers so far and 15 over 40 inches with Matt Carlin's 45-1/2 inch Northern being the one to beat so far. Overcast skies today with wind coming in at 5 to7 miles per hour from the North West. it's race day today at 3:00 pm Sears Point, so a little time off fishing and back at it in the A.M.
Tight Lines, Terry Jr.
Tripping.04/06/19 Waters from the Algonquin interior, into the Laurentians and along the Ottawa River Valley has marked me with a little more than 20 trips so far this year and counting. The Walleye have started slow above the Dam this season but right on - on the lower side it's right on. Post spawn Smallies were easy to see in under four and five feet of water. Walleyes in the park at Radiant and Traverse were great as was the Pike fishing in SecWet. Traverse and Montgomery gave the largest Muskie so far as well as the Chalk out side of the Park. Canoe ventures along the Barron Rivers 300 foot cliffs have become weekly outings. 6 to 8 hours trips for Small Mouth and Walleye with a few carries around the falls and rapids made for tired trekkers at days end.
June 15 - All guides are out for six straight days this week with Stuart Korn and company as we fished the works with a group of 12 anglers visiting on his 9th consecutive year. (sometimes when your cast fades a little to the left it only takes a small piece of tape on your shoe to straighten it out, right Allen T. Willie Harzula with Paul Pear and Joe Vittali set some record catches on the military lakes as well as Holden but their high light after 20 years of coming up was another 20 Muskies landed in one day on the Chalk. Game play and retirement coming. I don't know, I've been retired 3 years now since setting up office at the River, good luck my friend, enjoy Colorado and I'll see you in the Spring! T.C.
June 10th - Muskellunge Hunt.
Three River systems and 11 lakes have just opened this week and the great Muskie Hunt is on. pike are still a hot topic out front on the river as Bill Slavick and Matt Tagged a few good ones from Boom Creek to the Schyane River this week with the end stretching out over 45 inches. some large ones were taken straight from under the River docks just out front by Collin and I as each time we shifted the docks out, the fish moved with it. Jeff and I took our fill this week with a heavy pay load of River Run Channel Cats. Most came in between 3 to 7 pounds and made for great eating. A few walleye found their way into the batter too!
Mid May 2004
Season began during mid May starting us out with great pike fishing on the Ottawa River. Yogi and his group nailed the opener at prime time on the river with Mark taking the biggest northern at 44 inches.
APRIL 28th 2004
Everyone is back and we open up in just a few weeks. It's going to be a busy Spring, Summer and Fall. The show circuit was quite eventful and it was great to see everyone. Looking out across the River this morning was quite enough to really get that feeling of making that perfect cast again. Skies are blue and the River is clam today although it is still a bit cool. Cabins are opening up and the docks are soon to go in. The water is quite cold so Collin and I not so looking forward to that last part. Weekly reports will start soon so visit often. Water levels are a little high now but it has been dropping slowly and the winds have dried up most of back lake roads pretty well. keep the open side up! Tight Lines, Terry Jr.
March 31st
All shows are over for the winter 2004, and it's looking bright and
busy! Michele and I took our finale snow shoe escapade yesterday, ( yes we still have
snow) and the woods were beautiful. Still can not wait for the first cast into open
water as the Ottawa River is frozen over but the creeks and rivers are running fast and
the break up is coming soon. We picked up a nice moose shed from out where they were
herded up for the winter but couldn't find the match. Wolves are still feeding on
the rivers edge and the raccoons have broken their winter hibernation which means the
bears are soon to follow. My folks are back from the sunny south and the schedule is
busy as we start to reopen cabins and setup for the coming season. A few new cabins are
being brightened up and we have 6 busy weeks to get the docks in, pool and hot tub opened
and the hooks sharpened! Bring up some "Gulp" Soft plastic
lures as the were the the hot commodity of last years season and are expected to do as
well this year too. June 5 is opening musky and in line Blue FOX # 3 to 5's in
the orange colour was a great great hit on paralleling the weed lines while throwing the
weed less or fast spinner baits into the pad cover starting close to shore. See you
on the water soon, Tight Lines T.C.
The M
January 3 / 04
Hello everyone again! We hope all had a great holiday season and have brought in the new year healthy and a little heavier and enjoyed the days with friends and family. Mom and Dad did a little traveling this year while Michele the kids and I held down the home front. Snowmobile season is upon us which makes Dave busy in the shop and keeping the River Lodge plowed out as we have about 15 inches of the white stuff now. Shows are starting soon and you can expect to see us at Edison, NJ and Fort Washington, PA first, followed by Chantilly, VA. My first show will be in Harrisburg in early February at the same location in the Main Hall and plan on bringing an old sea dog with me this year (River Guide, Mark). I will also be in Suffern and Hamburg too in March and plan to have representatives in Monroeville and Rochester. That's the schedule to date and the pre new year bookings look to make 2004 a very busy year for us and the guide bookings have already locked out 2 weeks so if you are interested in seeing new water with a guide or travel to your favorite spots with a guide please let me know as early as possible. T.C.
December 2003
We are shut down now for the Fall and soon the sport shows will be upon us. We look forward seeing new and friends again soon. Wishing everyone happy and healthy holidays.
The Carlin's
October 9th 2003 - 49 degrees this morning and a bright sunny Autumn day ahead.
Fall colors are at their peak, geese are heading south and the ducks are flying low. We just had our first frost which is late for us, and the whole region is looking awesome. Arlean, Justin, Pop and I are just closing up the boats and storing them for the winter. Cabins are shut down but we left the Bungalows and River Lodge open for awhile yet. We are all staying busy and Diane is closing up the office but still has the phone line open, but to reach the River Lodge please call 613 584 2861 or me at home at 584 1368 - Thanxs
September is gone. Seasons are going too fast. Again the fishing and hunting was great all the way through. we had a great Archery moose hunt and tagged a big bull up in Quebec and two more Bulls in the Gun season. There is always a story and I look forward to sharing it with all at the shows this winter. Next is gun season then closing up camp, just can't believe its October already. Mark and Steve are closing out the year with a trip into Montgomery for walleye and Musky today and then we're done for the fishing. Tight Lines T.C.
Aug. 30th "the ROAST"
After finishing an awesome summer fishing season we set our sights on the Fall Bear season. This starts out with a great Moose and Walleye BBQ and then followed by a day long Pig Roast. Someone had a beer too. Both first and second weeks proved great with a 98% success rate! We had some pre season Bear problems at home too as one tried to gain entry to our house after devouring the porch BBQ. Problem taken care of via 300 win mag and a 190 silver tip. I can not say enough of the fun we had and how great it was to have old friends and a few new ones in camp, I so look forward to those weeks and I'm looking forward to next season already. PS - Thanks for the truck Paully!
August 15th Aaron's Day
Heading back to the North Country with a cool breeze in my eyes, just glad to be back again and looking forward to fishing that one special back water pool that needs revisiting. Grey Owl / T.C.
Aug 3, 2003
Cow Paddy time of Year!
Yes this is our August long week end and the Valley entertainment is at it's finest. In keeping with the local traditions Michele has taken the Kids to the one room school house for three legendary races, hotdogs and waiting to see where the cow relieves himself and award the owner of the pasture ticket a cool $500.00! the suspense is killing me. All came home with Ribbons but the Cow has failed to relieve itself ... yet
Terry Stone and his clan took 3 boats into Center yesterday and blew out the Bass with incredible catches on soft plastics and a little live bait for the kids. This is canoeing season for several groups as they are voyaging to some of the less accessible waters on Algonquins interior lakes ( the Barron Canyon, Sec, Lucky and the James). The Eckard / Blikle Family crew of Nine from Rochester N.Y. who worked over the guides, Mark and Steve on the River for some really successful Walleye takes and a couple Sturgeons some great 36 inch Northerns. Bill Davis scored the Biggest one last week while forcing his friend Henry to give his up as they Doubled in the 1st Persquille. Scott still has them beat at 44 1/2 inches and 26 pounds.
White Mudlers, Sinko's And Rapalas was all that we needed Monday July 7th. Mark Pecora with his buddies Mike and Brian along with myself had an amazing out back adventure that caught us over 80 Bronze backs with 5 going over 4 pounds. We were Small Mouth fishing in under 6 foot of water where we could look right down into the schools of fish and literally watch the bite. Temps are still in the high nineties and clear skies on call for the next couple days.
July 5, 2003
BASS - TASTIC !
and it was...
What an awesome week of fishing, The Dragonfly hatch sent the Bass on the lakes into a frenzy and the quote of the week goes to Jason Shane "This is CRAZY, They are everywhere!" And they were. Several dozen bass made that dramatic "Sub Surface to Air Jump" Deep, Shallow, in the Pads, Timber and on Rock Shelves. Along with his uncle Lou and the Help of Lee and Ron Ridinger, we managed to boat 201 Bass in under six hours on the water. The week was extremely good for everyone for both new time guests and the returns as we saw action on over 16 lakes in only 6 days on the water. If your planning a trip next week be prepared for more warm weather as this past week saw temps move into the mid 90's. Mark and I both saw our best action on the River and the Tributaries but the lakes turned on mid week and produced the numbers.
I'll stay in touch, Guiding Algonquin, T.C.
Blue Lizards Everywhere - June 25/03
Mike Thomas and Family kicked Bass all week long in our on going heat wave of the year. Tossing jigs and blue Lizards were #1 with all lakes from Bissett Creek to along the Algonquin edge down to the Barron Canyon. Seconds Lake on the Interior gave them over a hundred good bass and the best pike fishing yet. Wilkins Lake was awesome for Mark Stellini and company as an annual trip for over 10 years. Finding the Rip Rap along the south shores was were the Pike were and the Bass were just one lake over in Gunny. Young Rachele is still looking for the cover photo to make the front of our news paper for the fourth consecutive year.
Frank Ciardi's Grandson is holding the big Pike for the week at an even 16 pounds from across the River along with a big 10 pound Channel Cat. Temps are still in the mid and high 90's through out the days but cooling off nicely at night. Opening Bass on the Lakes comes this weekend and we are all looking forward to the new waters, hope to see you on the water soon - Tight Lines, Terry J.R.
June 20 "Back at the Tail Race"
The fish have been shallow on the lower side and the "Narrows" have been producing the big scores. Plastics and live bait have done well while few have had fun with the Fly Rod and poppers.
Mid June
Young Blue jumped the tracks and saw Stu Korn and company make the 1st season trip into the edge of Algonquin. After a couple of warm days things turned cooler but the Small Mouth were there. Jeff and I guided a double trip and came up dozens of hefty 3 to 4 pound Smallies. A truly awesome trip came the following day while guiding Stu again and his buddy Allen Tobacman. We starting the morning slow along the North shores and spillways of Holden on the Ottawa but a change of tactics at 11:00 a.m. started us on a day to long remember. This was Bronze Back fishing at its best. Earlier in the week we caught numbers in the same areas but today we caught numbers and size. Over 35 fish over 3 pounds another 1/2 dozen were between 4 and 5 and one made 6 pounds 10 ounces! Boy did we take photo's.
June
Water levels are slowly going down and we can reach the docks without the the help of a boat ferry. Opening musky put a fury on the Chalk waters with nice 8 and 10 toothy critters taken by myself and Phil on the same day. I stayed with the husky Jerks and a big white spinner Bait while Phil thru the Buck Tails and trolled the center line - it all worked!
The following weekend found with in the boat with Austin Hewitt working in Ottawa. His family and i spent 3 Days exploring the Northern tributaries, Dumoins, Big Bears and Maraboo along with a trip on the eastern side of the River too. Pike, Walleye and Bass were all found shallow unerd 6 ft of water. We used some live bait but the usual plastics and Rapalla proved themselves again. Back into the Musky waters found Wally Morinto and his friend Dennis Gilpatric found the Musky rhythm this week on their 1st of two week trips scheduled again this year at the Mountain River Lodge. Peter and Doug Lemanski of Worcester Mass. took the big Walley this week at 31 inches and a hefty 12 pounds (Blue Foxes #4)
May 29th
Wow! The water has came up last night! We had to rescue the docks as levels jumped up over 18 inches in just two hours. What was looking to be a low river and spring fish has turned 180 degrees. Rain continues to fall and water temps are rising. only half the Walleye have spawned and have moved to deeper water. Some old cows are still holding to 10 and 12 foot off points and and strong current areas.
May 27
My new right hand on the River, "Director" Justin Charette and I broke away from our afternoon chores to tend to the calling waters of the River. A dozen Pre Spawn Small Mouth up to 3 1/2 pounds came in easily while just trying to hook up a couple walleye for diner - dark green road kill snozzer tube jigs. Two Northern Pike fell ( 28 and 35 inches) to six inch Rapallas in both gold/black and silver/black combinations. Not bad for an hour and half late afternoon fish. The Walleye were deep at about 35 to 40 feet so we didn't spend time on the drift or vertical jig.
MARK ONE - May 18th
A great day on the water for River Guide Mark Scott as he netted 11 pike from 5 to 18 pounds, a giant Channel Cat and a full limit of Walleye. First guided trip of the season ended in great success. Sierra, T.J. and Aaron all took their first fishes of the new season as well this past weekend too. It's back to putting boats together and opening up the remaining cabins, Dave is working on a few motors today and talking NASCAR. Time to get back at it, Tight Lines - Terry JR.
May 11, Happy Mother's Day
Opening Week End proved to be exceptional on the River. By the end of last month we thought we were going to have really high water to deal with but with no rain to speak of and a light tributary run off we will have lower water levels this spring. This early spring effect has made the Walleyes quite easy to locate as Mark, Steve, Jeff and I all had trips out front that all went very well. We are still putting our docks in and cleaning out boats and getting the property set up for another great season, the big kick off starts next weekend. We will be ready!
Tight Line - TC
April 25
The ice is off of all lakes and river systems, observations from the deck while looking across the River makes the sky look like it's sitting on the mountains both over and under. Dead still high water disturbed only by a few ducks and geese that have set up residence below the deck and on the point. Cabins are being hooked up with water and reopened slowly, while the pool and hot tub will be opened about three weeks from now. No fishing yet but the open water is quite inviting The first cast is coming soon.
April 15 th - Happy Birthday Michele!
Days of Thunder, April 4th 2003
As the Spring tries again and again to warm things up we are still dealing with cold nights that refreeze the River. This brings on the thunderous groans and cracks that continuously warp across and below the ice. The Rumbling is quite loud and can be heard from indoors. as we go to cabin to cabin preparing for our May opening it's in the back ground all the time. At least you know the breaking and shifting is coming soon. Mark has pulled off the back Algonquin lakes for the time being as ice levels are thinning and slush threatens. We are so looking forward to open water, Lake Trout opens in less than 2 weeks! I'll try to keep you informed, T.C.
Hey Folks, we know that your upset with the French but just remember that the rest of Canada gave up on them 130 years ago.
"Natures Call"
March 23 -All shows are finished!
We have wrapped up another winter tour on the roads traveling to sport shows and seeing old friends and making new. As the war in upon us, I have received numerous e - mails and all our thoughts and prayers are for the men and women overseas. Thank you all for the great letters, they are greatly appreciated and a nice distraction from the current events. Just under 5 weeks will see that first cast on the water and we are all so looking forward to it. The Season is shaping up to be a busy one and we look forward to seeing and fishing with you all again soon. Take care of yourselves and each other.
Tight Lines, TC
March 21 first day of Spring
Then there were Wolves
We counted 9 different wolves crossing the river yesterday. The Ottawa is frozen and the wolves come across in small groups from the presquille's to feed along the south shores where winter food has been strategically placed. The River Lodge is still engulfed in snow but we have had a good bit of rain lately and the snow is starting to diminish - should be a high of 38 degrees today. It looks like we are going to have high water through out the early fishing season.
Feb18th 2003
The Big show is over. Yes Harrisburg ended with the storm of the century and sent us heading north on the edge of the northeaster that many of you are digging out of now. So far we have missed the heavy snow at home but we came back to minus 20 degrees. The snowmobiles don't even want to start and I had to change the battery in my truck, find the plug ins, and extension cords for warming the block heaters. I went to the grocery store this morning and the parking lot was filled with running cars. No one dared to turn off their car heaters while shopping, can't blame them, its cold. Any way the sport shows were great and we got to see a lot of friends and the 2003 season is shaping up to be a very busy year. Expect some new special features added to the Mountain River Lodge this summer as Dad and I have a few new projects going on for this spring. For now it's all inside work until the weather breaks.
Sniff, Scurry, Hem and Haw
It's all about change, finding the cheese and moving with it. We are well into the New Year now and I'll tell you all it's pretty cold up here. Jan, 10th 03. Picked up another 6 inches of the white stuff last night and it was minus '20 C or minus '3 F this morning - very cool. The River has frozen over now and the Bite is on now in the Park for speckled trout, so the ice shack is out and we're looking forward to fresh walleye this weekend too!
Dec 30th 2002 - ( Longitude 79 degrees by Latitude 46 degrees)
I hope everyone has had a great Christmas and are having a happy Hanukah! Ice Fishing is starting and the Snowmobiling is awesome. Shows start very soon now that January is almost here and we are all looking forward to seeing old friends again. First show will see us in Edison, NJ and then the road trip begins. Right now it's a cool 7 degrees with just under a foot of snow. All reports from the sunrise strip of the deck on the river has been moved well indoors and close to the wood stove. Michele and I broke out the snowshoes yesterday and tracked deer out back, the Park migration ran late this year and they are still passing through to the feeding yards in Petawawa. Well, 2003 approaches and we all wish you a Happy New Year!
Thanks for reading and please stay in touch, Tight Lines - Terry Carlin JR
Sorry folks but about 6 weeks of information has been lost by a computer crash. To roughly catch you all up I'll say we had an awesome September bear season and the walleye bite was terrific. Then there was a great Moose hunt that gave us a couple of the huge noble beasts! November has come and the snow has already started, ( came so fast I didn't have time to rake the lawn, Darn!) soon Michele and I will getting our winter exercise by snow shoeing the back forty and Terry SR and Diane will be heading south shortly. Kelly and Ed are expecting their first child in June - should be a busy month! Everyone up here is healthy and doing fine My buddy Roger and I along with Dave have been exploring the Laurentians again this year and have established some new Moose territory that offers Bow, Cross Bow, Gun and Muzzle Loading seasons - Next Fall will be fun along with a lot of hard work. The Lodges are all closed up now and the new news paper is in the works so if anyone should have a picture or letter for us it would be greatly appreciated.
We wish everyone the Best of Thanksgiving and hope everyone is well and spending time with their families and friends over the holiday.
A Special condolence to the Families of two different fishing Legends that I have had the privilege to cast a line with over the years at K/O, With the passing of Pat White and Billy Westmorland please know they will be greatly missed but fortunately we have some awesome memories.
November, 2002 - Terry JR, Tight Lines Always
Observations from the deck
Hitchhikers guide to the Ottawa River and Area
Wed. Aug. 28
As we wind down our last week of August and prepare for the up coming Bear season (had two on the hood of truck last night) - I 'm looking across the River this morning and enjoying a great view of the Laurentians, high blue skies and placid waters. Mark is Guiding Holden Lake today along with Steve while Phil has chosen an East Island tour. Dave and I are sanding off the edges to be sure of a very successful Bear season starting next week. Temps have been in the mid to high 70's during the day while the evenings have dropped to the mid 50's - good sleeping weather!
Chris Mc Cotter's group of 20 have visited us for the summers end again and have reported great catches and the coveted silver paddle is still awaiting the first angler to record the great Canadian Grand Slam of Sm. mouth, Lg. mouth Walleye, Northern Pike - The only thing missing is the Musky, but it should be finished today. Oh and the "other" category ( this includes, Drum, Sturgeon, Gar Pike, Channel Cats, Red Horse, White Fish and whatever!) will soon come also.
This will be one of my finishing reports for 2002 season of Mountain River Reports of the Ottawa Valley - information on the area will soon be transferred to ko-riverlodge.com - It has been a different and interesting season to say the least. After our Fall Bear season we have some more Autumn fishing trips followed by a late September search for the noble Moose. Some Small Game and Duck seasons will take us to years end at the beginning of October. If you find yourself traveling in the Northern Algonquin Region drop in for a coffee or diner at the "Restaurant at the end of the universe - err, I mean at the end of the Bass Lake Road, or down by the River and see my office overlooking the water.
Well it's been fun, - 17 years of Tight Lines,
SO LONG AND THANKS FOR ALL THE FISH !
TERRY CARLIN JR.
(And no I have never heard of anyone by the name of Douglass Adams)
As identified in the Hitchhikers Guide and the Encyclopedia Britannica - the Ottawa River and the Valley - " Mostly Harmless " T. C.
P.S. on a finale note, thanks John Perciasepe for the fresh Fig fruit breakfasts, They were great!
Wednesday Aug. 7, 2002 - 9:20 am after a windy and delayed departures on most trips yesterday, we were greeted at the River docks by anxious crews. The Ottawa River has laid down nicely with a slow westerly wind. It's a cloudless sky, mirrored by the River and only separated by the verdant green Mountains of the Laurentians. Expected high today is about 75 degrees. - Hey, special congratulations to Jimbo as he won the Musky tournament on the Chalk yesterday! Great news for the later season arriving guests, Unfortunately because of the tightening security measures on base properties we were not able to access 7 lakes in the military grounds. Now we can (finally) - and Allan and Mike Underwood ( 5 year Mt. River Vets ) will be the first ones on Lake Montgomery since August last year. Targeting Small Mouth, Walleye and Musky - should be great stories tonight! It's Fish Fry today and the weather is perfect. I'm heading out from this amazing office view looking over the River and heading out fishing for the rest of morning. Hope to see you on the water soon, Tight lines T.C.
P.S. Hey Jan, I'm looking forward to seeing you and Chet next week!
It's been very busy on the water folks and the reports have been hard to keep up with. Let's just say it has been very warm and the fishing as awesome as ever. It's already August and the Deep River Summerfest doubled the towns population in just one weekend. I probably shouldn't get too detailed and technical about local Ottawa Valley traditions but Michele took time out this past weekend to take our kids to a cow patty gamble. Yes it's true, in old Valley fashion you buy a square on a pasture and wait to see where the a newly released cow drops its patty, and well ....winner takes all. ( I'm staying with the Nascar pool myself! )
Back to Fishing Now!
Sunday July 14th 7:00 am
I cannot see the mountains, or even the river from the deck this morning. A heavy mist has encompassed the waters again and trips going out are being held off for another hour. Lake fishing is fine but river navigation is by GPS only. Trips are mostly out front with Mark heading west and Phil is taking his tour down to island in the east. The Pool is at 90 degrees and the Hot Tub is at 100. Another day in the mid 80's with high blue skies. A lite rain last night has made everything a little greener and water levels have slightly rose. It's race day and Ryan has the Pole position (25 extra points for me!) I know where I'll be this afternoon but his morning I'm fishing the 2nd Pres'quil.
A very hard rain in this early morning of July 17th has gotten trips out late. Catches yesterday said to be quite well with both Steve's and Mark's crew landing good 6 and 7 pound Walleye's. Both the Candy Cane Stack Flats and the Tail Race have been producing very well. At 10:43 am, observations from my office (the pool deck) is showing clearing skies (finally) Temps are at 72 and it looks like it will be a great day. Dave and I are going fishing. Tight Lines, T.C.
Thursday July 11 - Fire In The Sky
Quebec forest fire about 1000 miles away near James Bay have blown smoke through the Ottawa Valley, no fire bans in our area but up North it has been very dry. The Haze on the River proves those water bombers have their work ahead of them. In the mean time there has been a lot of canoeing in and about the Algonquin region these past few days. Terry Stone reports incredible Bass catches on Lucky and Diane's Lakes along with the Canyon tour. 1/2 dozen 4 and 5 pounds along with many more in the 2 pound class have made some great days on the water. Terry's nephew's Jack and Josh caught two of the biggest ones while dangling a worm on the surface with only two feet of line out! We have a tremendous dragonfly hatch and the bass a jumping, dark colors in the "Road Kill Green" and Pumpkin seed are the #1's this week. - Terry JR
July 9th
Observations from the Stern.
At 9:10 this morning I have company on the deck with 10 Canadian Geese a Mallard hen and 3 ravens. ( Oh and Bob and Ileene Marks too.) They all join me with a gorgeous view of the River and Mountains. A little later report this morning as we (Dave, Tyler and I) had a pretty good Tuesday morning rush at the docks. Everyone is out and I just finished taking my water readings. It's 72 presently and should reach about 84 degrees later on today. Afternoon thunder storms yesterday have raised the water a little and took me off the water early. Before leaving, Illeen managed a nice 4 pound Small mouth on the edge of the Bear River waterfalls bay. The bite stayed fairly shallow and is expected the same today. Today is a green on green day for Michele and I and Tee Off is at 1:45, I'll try to get back soon. -T.C.
Fourth of July - happy independence day
Another week of awesome weather is happening. Bill Rust along with Ken Edwards have easily netted100 plus bass days on the last thee trips out on Tall Pines, James, and Neil Young Lakes - all on tube jigs and small twisters. Several big Northern Pike stories have surfaced with C#1, while landing nice 16 inch bass a Northern decided to take the catch away at boat side. The 4 foot Pike wouldn't let go of the Bass but refused to get in the net as well. The number 2 cabin share a similar story yesterday with a Walleye as the bait. Never think your lures are too small! It's 7:26 am on this independence day morning, the River is calm again with a light west breeze and highs in the mid 80's to come. Some of the river tributaries have slowed down with the usual post season spawn wrapping up but the action on the lakes and main River is fast and furious. Both Guides Steve and Mark have also recorded great Musky action on the Chalk and lower river this week also. Tight Lines, Terry JR
June 30 - 02 - TC - Mt. R
Dave's last trip on Friday got off to late start with a couple of mechanical difficulties but after moving from truck to truck to 4 wheeler and down into a little no - name lake. The first Rapala didn't hit waters surface till 1:00 pm and the first cast nailed a 3 pound Bass! Small Mouth up to 5 pounds were caught that afternoon with many more in the 2 to 3 pound range caught photographed and released along with some jumbo perch.
Mike and Pete Thomas report awesome catches on the Fly with 6 and 7 weight rods. Their week brought them into over 500 bass and even a 36 inch pike on the same set up. Great, great week!
Old home week is approaching with more experience rods than ever as everyone in camp has been up before. I'm looking forward to it, Looking out across river this morning at 8:23 am - it's calm waters with a slight breeze out of the North West, Blue skies and a high of 78 degrees expected, See you on the water, TC
Six Feet Under
No not HBO but the strike zone on Bass and Northerns right now.
That incredible mist from last evening is back this morning. (June 26) At 8:37 am it has come in so thick that when you look at the Mountains across the River in Quebec, you would think they separated overnight. There are a wide variety of trips today - longest consecutive years running guest (27years) Mike Thomas and his son Pete are voyaging to the Musky lakes for the day where they have done extremely well all week. Mark Stellini and his kids, Rachel and Steve are venturing into the Gunning waters west of camp, where their dad 1st fished 11 years ago. Rachel caught a nice 7 lb Lg Mouth off the docks last nite during the fish fry, go girl! Other trips have Dave guiding across the tracks with Bob Reimnitz and his buddy John. Mark has had an incredible week of walleye fishing, his day with the Keller's netted countless walleye's with many 5 to 7 lbs. Look it's 8:42 ( I write slow) but the mist is lifting again. (it is mist - Terry Sr. says "We don't have FOG in Canada!" Well I'll tell you folks, it's MISTIER than hell right now!
T.C. J.R.
The Mountain River Experience
June 25, 02
I'm trying to start keeping up with reports weekly now, the season is awesome and prime time is now - it's been mid 70's and mixing light showers with off and on sun the last couple of days. The water is still quite high on all lakes and the River with water temps kicking in at 52 degrees in the bays while the center River is at 48. I've had a few excellent trips already and Mark Scott along with Dave have had the majority both above and below the dam and a few interior Algonquin Park trips too. Chris and Sam gave me some great "Brochure Shots" for next years paper while fishing the upper tributaries of Holden. Guides, Steve Barlow and Jeff Wilkins took Jeff Gordon's crew for some great tours that netted some huge pike and even a naked chicken. (yes there is story there) My dad guided the golf course with Skip and Uncle and beat me two strokes.
Big Pause - I'm writing this on the deck over looking the River, and I just had to get my camera for a few pictures. It's 8:11 pm and their is an awesome mist (not the Steven King kind) advancing across the Ottawa - wow how many offices have this view?
This is, as usual one of the hottest times of the year prior to when the weeds start surfacing. Temps are in the high 80's with no real humidity. A few early showers this afternoon brought most boats in early but things cleared and the K/O fish fry went A.O.K.
As most of the avid report readers (Um, does anyone read this stuff?) may have noticed Dave is working out of the K/O Lodge on the Lake, while I'm now at the Mountain River property. (early retirement for me) I still guide and fish often but you will find me dock side, pool side, garage side and here on the Deck writing weekly reports. It is an older property down here and it keeps me busy, but oh what a view. I'm looking forward to seeing old friends and new in 02. Tight Lines, T.C. The Northern Lights have seen strange sights
June Nine Two Zero Zero Two!
Still here.
There are strange things done in the midnight sun
By the men who moil for gold;
the arctic trails have their secret tales
that would make your blood run cold;
The Northern Lights have seen strange sights ,
but the queerest they have ever seen,
Was the time twelve came together, to spread the ashes of my buddy
Larry Landes, On the Island of Sullivan - he rests in peace a true friend
Always and Forever.
TC
Hey keep the Silver Side Up Folks, and I hope that we'll see you on the water soon.
June Seven, - Zero Two
Keeping the Silver Side Up!
A little from Nickel Back , and now we are lighting up both Muskey and Walleye on the Chalk River and the Ottawa. Shallow with the lightest or no weight is the ticket. The River is just about 10 days late into the season Temp wise with 48 degrees below and 50 above - the Chalk is sitting pretty at 65 degrees and the Toothy Critters are turned on! Any spinners with a silver side has been the best on the Muskeys with a few Rapala's and Jerk baits coming in a close second.
Silver Up, Always - T.C.
May 26 th
It's a little on the cool side up here with a high today of 14 C or 48 F. Water levels are slowly dropping and surface Temps are around 41 F. below the dam and 43 F. above. The last couple days have seen great pike and bass action but the walleye bite has slowed as they are still pre spawn. A couple days on from now with the water temperature increasing should prove quite promising for the Eye's to turn on. The Candy Cane Stack along with the "Narrows" and the "Presqui'les" have been doing the best, shortly we will be focusing on more current and point related areas. Get ready folks as opening Musky will be here June 1st and all the guides are are waiting with great expectations. (it's been seven months since they have seen a Husky Jerk, Harasser or a Spinner Bait) - The season is upon us and I look forward to seeing old friends and new again very soon. Oh yes, and those early troopers coming up next week - Bring top water lures, the home lake is awesome now. Torpedoes. Zara Spooks and and every thing on the Fly is working!
Tight Lines, Terry Carlin JR.
April 6, 2002
Sugar bushes are are presently cooking up some great maple syrup as cool nights and wonderfully warm days are now upon us. Snowmobiling is finished for another season and we look, so, so, much for open water. Points on the River are opining up slowly now and the snow is less than a foot here but the Laurentiens still have 3 plus in places. Soon enough we will celebrating our annual May, " Black Fly Bash!" Hope to see you all on the River soon! - Terry JR.
Late March
Winter came back to hit us one last time. March comes and goes as a lion. There is more snow on the ground now than we have had all winter. The river and lakes are still frozen tight but the days are warming. Michele and I continue our snow shoeing expeditions in and around Algonquin Park and the experiences are most rewarding. Tracking Deer and seeing the impressions of an Owl's wing upon the snow as it lifts a mouse from the surface is most remember able. Dave reports several Moose sightings around the lodge properties this past week and Mark continues his forays into the back lakes for Speckles, Splake and White Fish through the ice. Now that the shows are finished, it's time to turn our attention to preparations for the new season. It looks to be shaping up to be quite a busy year with many new and returning guests. I'm looking forward to a bright new season of good times to share with new and old friends! For now folks I have to be off, Lunch with my adorable god daughter Ashley and her mom. (I love the small town rumors that come out afterwards) TC
Tight lines, Keep the open side up, and happy Easter!
Terry Carlin JR.
Early March
Sierra Caught two Pike thru the ice, and we ended the day with 6 more walleye and a
bunch of perch. That was a great weekend with my cousin Eric and his girls. My wife,
In-laws and friends.
Easy Boy, I'm Coming.
Hey did anyone ever canoe the Barron Canyon, fished the Dumoine, jumped the tracks or visited Ch?eau lake - ever read Corry Ford or another lost dear writer and friend Howard Brant. There is a great appreciation to two great writers who have experienced and conveyed a magic of the wilderness on paper and in person. Dear, Madolyn, thank you for your time and experience and I am sorry for your, and so many others loss. In reading the lines below I hope that you know that you have appreciative friends - ALWAYS up here. Love, Terry Jr. and Michele along with T.J., Sierra, and Aaron - & all the "Carlin's.
Speak, friend and enter.
February 22. - Live well, be Honest, Laugh often, and Love Much ...
TC & Friends
Hey folks Daytona is coming this weekend and after the NASCAR pool of 2001 we're ready for another exciting season. Rules are simple, last year we picked three drivers and held a contingency of two more in reserve should an identical pick happen. Chose your drivers via e-mail or on arrival, change cars any time up until starting. Rules are the same as fantasy Nascar but no salary caps.
2002 season
February 11, 2002.
We are just finishing the Harrisburg sport show in Pennsylvania, where we have seen old friends and other outfitters from across the continents. Our weather up here is very mild so far for the winter with only about 12 inches of snow on the ground. Normally it should be minus10 degrees centigrade with about 2 or 3 foot of snow. The Ottawa river finally froze over, two days ago and the lakes are safe to navigate. Ice fishing is now underway. I'll do a little of it with the kids but I'm looking forward to open water and casting. I picked up some new heavy In Line Spinners by "HI - FINN" for those up coming Musky trips. A few more crank baits and Husky Jerks (orange, trust me) should finish off what I need for all those toothy critters. As for Small Mouth Bass, I visited my friends at the "Worm Barn" and stocked up on various soft plastics in bright and dark colors. Kevin Sheetz hooked me up last year with a selection of tube jigs made by "Snoozers". An original Susquehanna famed lure made an incredible d?ut on the Ottawa, just remember to keep the bag tightly sealed, they smell like garlic and something else too, but I won't go there. I Hope to see you all soon, Terry Jr.
"RACE DAY"
Long time but this is all last year.
The winds have stopped (again) and temperatures have returned to the normal so we are looking at a high of about 78 Degrees. Usually I try to get my week ending report out on Saturdays but yesterday saw me on the water with Bob Tortorra and his son Mathew. It was an awesome day boating over 75 Bronze backs and netting several over 4 pounds and nearing close to 5. The day before was tougher because of wind conditions but we still managed a few Northerns, some Bass and Cisco's. Same day saw Tom Fazios party land some giant channel cats along with a beautiful 6 pound Small Mouth Bass out of the River. The lake is a perfect mirror this morning and their are only a couple of guided trips going out. Today's Nascar race is at the Chicago Speedway and both Dave and I mean to watch it so I will get back to you both with fishing news sometime next week, Tight Lines - Terry Jr.
July 12th 6:15 am
Troops are moving slow today so I have some time for a morning posting. Dave jumped the tracks yesterday and maneuvered his small 16ft hull into a couple of small lakes where he caught and released some 60 plus small mouth. 6 where over 3 1/2 pounds and two were over 5 pounds. Mark and Steve (River Guides) toured the Ottawa with Tom Fazio's group and caught plenty of Walleye, Channel Cats, and Bass, biggest Walleye was just over 5 Pounds. Today looks great with overcast skies and not quite as warm. Should reach about 74 degrees with a slight chance of an afternoon shower. So where are we all going today? One group is out to the Petawawa River system for Pike, Musky, Walleye and Bass, Another is up on Holden, a few went to the lower river, a couple went for Muskies at the James's, while another couple went out to Tall Pines and the last foursome are at the golf course. There should be some great stories that we're bound to hear tonight. - T.C.
July 10, 2001
Cold fronts and wind are gone, finally.
The start of the 2nd week of July has brought temperatures back up to the high 70's with some very calm water and high skies. Eric Evans and his buddy Ron Greco hiked the tracks down to Rondeau Lake yesterday and really lit up the pike and bass in the morning and finished the day with walleye fishing on the River in the evening. It's really a quiet week up here ( after the last two months ) right now so we are making preparations for our annual staff fish fry BBQ for Thursday night. Lou wager and company are fishing with Dave - adventure travelling. And the Stoltzenbergs have split their day with 2 on the River and 2 on the fairways. Tough choices. The kids and I are on our way to Turtle Lake later this morning, before it gets too hot, and then a quick dip in the pool. Yes another hard day on the waters. We'll try to update again soon, tight lines, T.C. PS Soft plastics and a Zara Spook were the dominate forces on the lake out front last night. ( along with a little live bait right off the docks too )
Wind, Darn it. July 6, 2001
Last week the Myers party with Steve, Wayne, Mark and Ron had an excellent 5 days on the water. They caught fish from the military lakes to the Chalk and lower river system and did a great day on Upper Holden as well. Mike Lohmeyers group fished with Mark Scott for a few days and caught more than 40 walleye and bass on the top side one afternoon. Dave Fischer had trips out with Jim Phelans group (and recorded a plus 75 day for Pike and Bass) While I fished with returning guests, Sam Shriver and his two boys. - excellent days on the water. Oh yes, Sue Stewart landed four muskies yesterday while her husband Dave just managed one in the boat. (had to let everyone know that Dave!) Today Ron and Lee Ridinger are off to Tall Pines to finish off their week visit as Bill Rust and Ken Edwards are headed for Tucker in search of large mouth bass and speckled trout. It's been a busy week on all the the so many different waters. Jim Hemphill along with Pop, Tom Quasey and Tom Jr. even managed a FLY IN lake for a day and caught quite a few pike on Gull Lake above the Laurentians.
Unfortunately quite a few of our regular guests coundn't make it up this and next week due to medical reasons, but please know that our thoughts go out for Mark and Tim Harper, Bob and Ileane Marks and Bill and Charlotte Murphy. The week and next are, and will not be the same without you, see you all next season, God Bless and tight lines, T.C.
Breaking Trail - July 2, 2001
A pretty good wind storm swept through the region this past weekend and made the fishing a little tough on the river. Most guides and guests alike elected the back waters and smaller lakes for yesterdays fishing which proved quite successful. Fallen trees had blocked the roadway into several interior lakes, but we pushed, pulled, chopped, and even rammed our way in. Just getting their was half the fun.
Lures of the week for Muskies - 5 inch Kalin grub on a 3/4 oz jig with a Colorado beetle spin. And a # 5 orange colored Blue Fox
Lures of the week for Pike - 6 inch orange and brown suspending Husky Jerk. And a 3/4 oz white spinner bait with #5 willow leaf blades in tandem
Lures of the week for Walleye - Worm harnesses and 1/4 oz jigs with 3 inch twister tails.
Lures of the week for Bass - Anything and Everything!
June 20th, The Perfect Storm
A large wind storm swept through the valley yesterday and made fishing a little difficult on the big waters. Pat and Ernest White and I found our way into a northern tributary and did well for bass and walleye both all day. On our return across the Ottawa River we were met with some wicked 4 plus foot waves. I thought for a while that I had gone fishing with George Cloony as we slowly navigated our way to the southern shore line. The high winds took down tress and left us with no power for most of the evening. Diner was cooked on propane BBQ's and the tables were candle lit, It was good night. Today's our real BBQ fish fry and their are no winds to worry us.
June 17th, 2001
A Day on Upper Holden with Frank Coyne Jr. & Sr. from Wooster Mass. saw us boat a few fish in the morning but the bite was a bit slow. By lunch time that had all changed when the fish along the North shore really turned on. We caught Musky, Northern Pike, Walleye, Yellow Perch, and plenty Bronze Backs. Just an excellent day on the water.
June 16th 2001
It's great to be back in full swing, trips have run from Bissett Creek to Chalk Bay with great takes on Walleye and Northern Pike. The photo above taken a few minutes ago is young Greg Gouegeon. Caught just this morning as Indian Pt. turned walleyes on for several hours. He's dad is credited with the Quote of the week when he confided that his son, " loves this place to point that when we got here, he hugged the bed!'' Welcome back home folks.
June 15th 200
Seven out of 8 muskies came on spinner baits in very shallow water as I guided Mark Staffaroni on our annually trip last week . Early June was fairly cool but the last few days have been in the 90's Hot and even a bit humid for us. Still the fishing is turned on. Both Dave and Mark have been out and reporting great catches. Jeff Hummell along with Chuck Martina (20 year k/o veterans) Did extremely well Top Side as well as the rest of their gang Joe, Paul and Willie, saying that this was one of their best pike trips ever! They also had a 100 plus fish day back on Tall Pines too. (yep, that lake has opened early) At the same time Dave Mcfarlin and his buddy Scott tore up a couple of the military lakes and one in the Park too, this past week. The spawn has peaked a little early on the top and is on right now on the lower river. Other than a bunch of fishing and my mom breaking her arm last week, well everything is fine and we are all doing well. Oh yea, Chuck won the NASCAR pool choosing Jeff Gordon, Ricky Rudd, and Sterling Marlin as they came in one - two - three. ( unbelievable- he's never watched a race in his life.) Guests are welcome to join the pool, details on the races are made on arrival, all bets are finale and we are not responsible for missing clothing and we keep all photo's, gloves and other damaging evidence. Thanks for reading, both of you and I hope to see you soon. - tight lines T.C.
May 22nd, 2001
The new season is upon us. Familiar faces and new ones have started to come through the lodge. Some new pictures on the hunting pages are now up and soon some fishing ones will be also. Michele has straighten out my Perfect Cast page with thumbnails and the down load time is quite improved. Dave and myself have been spending quite a bit of time in the Laurentians and are in mid season of a very successful spring bear hunt. We will turn all of our attention to the fishing starting June 2nd. Ottawa River temperatures are running almost 3 degrees cooler at the tail race compared to last year. As the River warms a little more, the Pike and Walleye spawn will be in full motion. I'm looking forward to getting back with the reports, well I hope to see you on the water this season. Tight Lines, and keep the open side up. - TC
March 18th, 2001
A few warm days have passed with more expected on its way. Temperatures have been a little above freezing during the days and we have seen a little snow start to go. We are all glad of it too. Soon we will be opening up the lodge and a few cabins for some spring cleaning and painting. Congratulations to Dave and Dawn at the birth of their 2nd child Braeden Ficsher, born the end of February. Terry Sr. and Diane are presently attending our last sport show of the year over in Cleveland and then are preparing to head to some warmer climates for a while before opening back up in May. Kelly and Ed are busy with their maple syrup production and the weather has been cooperating perfectly. Michele, myself and the kids have been busy over the March break feeding deer (daily) and snowmobiling. Later today we'll have a fire on lake with some friends, cook hot dogs and chile, do a little sledding and watch some Nascar. My kind of Sunday. I'll try to report back soon, T.C.
February 14th, 2001
Happy Valentine's day!
There is close to 3 foot of snow on the ground up here with expectations on another 12 to 18 inches to come before we start seeing a slow melt by mid March. Let's see now, just what has everyone been up to.... Snowmobiling is at its peak. Kelly and Ed are making several runs a week and report the trails and grooming to be in excellent condition. I'm getting out between sport shows as much as possible but my snowmobiling buddy has had to slow down a bit as Dave's wife, Dawn is expecting their second child any time now. All this snow should provide a strong spring run off with water levels in May and June a little higher than the past several years. Charlie, our dinning room manager is continuing teaching this winter at the local high school and has just taken on the directors role of the schools spring musical production. Mark Scott along with a few other local guides are making great catches on speckled trout and white fish on a few interior Algonquin lakes. Terry Sr. and Diane are reportedly touring some of the lower states this winter in their motor coach, between doing a few of the shows, And Michele and myself are preparing a trip to Chantilly Virginia this weekend to see a few friends and family and finalize some bookings. I think I got most of what everyone is up to as we are all looking forward to an early spring opening.
I'll try to be back soon, TC
It's Cold - January 19, 2001
We all had the pleasure of seeing some great friends at the the first outdoor show of the season. It is cold up here right now but the folks who live around Edison N.J. seemed to have it colder last week as we attended Jack Kerr's, Opening Sportsman's show. It was a good show and we all look forward to the up coming shows too. Talking fishing, new tackle and presentations and thinking about how to maneuver the perfect drift along a rocky shoal with just enough cabbage weeds to entice a cruising Northern Pike or Muskellunge - and Bammm! The hook is set and and the battle is on. (Oh when is winter going to be over!) ....... Soon.
What a great New Years and Christmas Holidays we all had up here. We had a lot of family, old staff and new, friends came up, all to enjoy our winter paradise on the lake. We all snowmobiled, ate really well (of course) played some strange games - some were fun, and stayed up till 5:00 am on more than one occasion. No doubt we will stay open late again next year again - at least until the first sport show puts us back on the road in early January next year.
December 29th 2000
As we begin the next millenium in a few days and look forward to those casts and catches of 2001, it's hard not to reflect back on some great memories of last season. Actually it's very easy to think back as I look out across a frozen lake and a foot and a half of snow. Don't get me wrong , I really love winter, the snowmobile trails are awesome and we really had a wonderful Christmas holiday with relatives and friends, but I just can't stop thinking about a perfect cast next to a fallen log that will be answered by a forceful pull and a marvelous splash. Well for now, talking about will just have to do and my Bass Master video game will see a hard winters work out. Alas, Sportshows are around the corner and we will all be talking fishing very soon. First show is at Edison NJ on Jan. 11th. Hope to see everyone soon, please e mail as you all can and have a great new Year. Pictures of our New Years bash on the lake are soon to come, Tight Lines - TC
Winter! It's comming!
Hey if anyone has ever wondered what it's like to glide across a frozen lake on a snowmobile, cross country ski a back Algonquin trail or even go dog sledding, it can all happen this winter at the Lodge. We are opening up December 26th this season for a few weeks and would like to invite anyone with a taste of adventure to join us sometime through the cooler months. Check out the Winter Escapes link off our home page for some pictures and updates.
October13th, 2000
Archery season for Moose was great as Ron Poffenburger of Boonsborrow Md. arrowed a great Bull as Dave called him in. Our late season Bear and small game packages the last couple of weeks were a great success as well. Vince, Glen and Bill Lemansky of Tuxedo N.Y all had shooting on bears and wolves. Pete and John Farrow lit up the duck ponds and worked their dogs into and upwards of 15 flushes a day on grouse. Not a whole lot of fishing going on right now as we prepare to close up the River and bring the docks in. One last tour for Mark, Steve and Sean Walker will round out the weekend of Oct. 14th and then it will be opening resident Moose season for another 6 days starting Monday. Dave's crew took a couple of moose this past week in the Park too. Everyone's been pretty busy up here as we are winding down for the season. I'll try to be back soon. Tight Lines, TC
the OLIMPICS
We consider them the "Down Under", but do they consider us the "Up Over?" - who knows... but we are going for the ones "Down Deep!" and we are going for gold!!!
More Stuff... uh, about the same time.
Returning adventurers of the Spring has Stu Korn and company, along with Jerry Yates of Long Island, N.Y. kicking up the Bass action with Mark and Steve on the Top. Today is walleye on the Bottom and Dave and I are crossing the tracks tomorrow with the same crew - it will be fun. 65 degrees with a little breeze and overcast skies. John and Jean had a fabulous week with musky adventures and River action as Mark guided them to 3 interesting waterways this past week.
September 16/00
This is a short recap of a few missed tales and adventures!
Frank Sturt and his buddy Cliff caught more bass than ever in their 12 year term into the K/O waters in the end of Aug. Cliff says they even caught one on a cigarette butt.- they were turned on! WOW! /' And in the Same week Jimbo and gang of Virginia kicked up over 70 Bronze backs on an annual tour to the Top Side of the River and Lodge 1 caught an additional 60 plus with a 10 lbs Northern on a "Snoopy Rod"! But the story that took the week was Ed's ( EEECK -EEEECK ) of seagull that took his minnow too deep and would not give it up with out an awesome water to airborne fight. The Seagull is fine and the minnow was returned.
Some things found! Sept14th /00
In the mid summer, when guide trips are many and lakes are variable it can be difficult to keep track of equipment lost and damage done to trucks, motors, boats and various other paraphernalia that we use to get through a day, week or just the season. On just one August day Dave was guiding Thad and Sharon Grudd of Northern N.J. on a trip for pike and bass when an awesome Northern leaped out of the water to take Dave's unattended Rod and Spoon, that was left dangling inches from the lakes surface. "BAM" and everything was overboard in seconds and going down quick - gone. No saving that one. Weeks passed and many more trips into those outbound lakes and the memory of his $150.00 Shimano Rod and Reel were history. Five weeks later John Marsheleck of Cherry Hill, N.J. and his yearly company of 6 wandered into those back waters and actually snagged Daves line and successfully retrieved it from depths and returned it to its thankful owner. Sometimes we get lucky.
A dedication to Lee and the other person who lives viscously through these pages.
Sat Aug 26th
It's raining, Mark is guiding up on holden, Dave's in Bissett with Al merini, Dad's at the river with Pal (Collin) All other guides have their Saturday off, Michele's at work and ......well I'm just watching the rain fall - see you all next week. TC
Virginia Strikes Back!!! August 26th 2000
Our fourth annual Virginia trip organized by Chris McCotter (woods and water, writer and Lake Anna guide) brought in the best season of "grand slam" fisherman ever. Slowly Chris's group grew from 10, four years ago to a full lodge booking of 21- These guys kept 3 to 4 guides busy on the water each day from Musky trips on the Chalk to Holden Smallies, interior Mixed bags and Lower river walleye action. The Mix was great and the action, well - awesome! The record break-in "Grand Slam" goes out to Scott Spencer, who recorded catches of the big "4" (*Walleye, Pike, Musky and SmallMouth) by day two at -9: 45 AM The honorary emblazoned paddle is his this year , and will be a tough one to take away.
Rolling Stones!
There are a few groups that come to K/O over the years and really make us what we are. When my dad took a dozer and pushed a road into a small glacial lake back in 1973, - well we only had a few guests to start out with, but it really amazes me how many folks who came up in the 70's and 80's still come back and bring new folks up to explore the K/O waters. Terry Stone, for one, of Harrisburg Pa. along with his son Ryan are 20 plus year veterans, and just recorded record trips on the interior lakes of t 60 and 80 plus days on both Bronze Backs And Bucket Mouths with the odd River day for walleyes just to break things up, and a day Muskie fishing that boated them 9 toothy critters! Hey it is so cool to see people that I can barley remember as a kid - going out and catching frogs with- then seeing them again and hooking up with some awesome fish. This is a special tribute to the veterans of K/O, "You folks built this lodge", thanks. TC
SURVIVOIR
We gave Chet the Tiki Torch on Wednesday A.M. and voted him out of the lodge until next season - 10 days in the trenches, well it's time. But he and Janet did miss one heck of a BBQ as the skies lightened up and the Ribs, Moose, Beef, Chicken and sausages were cooked to perfection (Oh yes, the walleye too!)--- and the Volley Ball game afterwards was just incredible! We Won! Sure I traded sides off and and on, but we still WON!
Wow, there is no way that's really been that long - but I'm back here at our " possum lodge " and ready to up date, but now that I've seen it's been this long since the last up date, well - I' ll have to do some remembering. To start off the easy way, "Everyone caught Fish!" And in the news folk's my friends at PETA are not presently picking on us for catching fish. That's right, now they trying to stop everyone from drinking milk.. They say that our cows are being treated inhumanely. Well when I heard about that I had to e mail them back right away and I agreed - Quote " Thanks girls, but I don't drink milk anyway, ... It just doesn't go well with STEAK"
The weather has been great, the Fishing awesome and the trips with freinds both new and
old has kept us super busy. A high lite of one of last weeks trips was having Chetski nail
a 5 1/2 pound Small Mouth on a Zara Spook and then a couple of casts later we Landed a
15.lb - 2oz Northern - Two trophies in 15 minutes, wow! Another great day on the water.
So I should save my work to a separate file? Personal highlights - this past week, making up a bed with Sarra in the field behind the lodge, ( Thanks for watching Frank Sturt ) Watching boats launch with Dave at the river, Dealing with fog and waiting for the start off time on a couple early mornings, Fixing broken trucks ( again ) and just having fun. So we're caught up for a few minutes and I will get back soon.I will be uploading and performing all month so visit often, e- mail ideas and don't forget to tip your waitress. TC
August 1st / 00
And the rains finally came. Water levels are up as we had a tremendous thunderstorm pass though the region last night. Oxygen levels are up and this should bring the fish up to the surface and closer to the banks as new feed has been washed into the shallows. Rapala's on the home lake has given some exciting action yesterday for Cecil and Erma Kennedy and they are back on the Home waters again today. Their one Toothy Pike out their is still swimming around with her favorite lure. The Lill boys picked up 19 out front on live bait and managed a couple 4 plus bass that are sure to make the paper this year and today those two along with their mom and dad are adventure travelling out into edge of Algonquin, armed with soft plastics, a canoe and a V-hull with an electric motor - should be some interesting stories when they return! TC
July 29th, 2000
A week of fantastic weather - Mid 80's during the day with 60 to 65 degrees at night, and last nights star filled sky's and shooting stars was spectacular. Our fishing is still superb for this time of year with the Northern Pike being the only species catching a little slow. Still Clyde, Nancy and I managed a couple in the boat along with 35 Small Mouth bass on Tuesday and Ron Poffenburgers Quad from Boonsborough Md. picked Northerns out of the Lakes and Rivers all week long. My highlight of the week was a great trip for bronzebacks with the Mills from Connecticut. On their 3rd year visit to the K/O we decided to target the big 3 to 5 lbs Small Mouth..... and we lit them up. Gerry, Susan, Jeff and I put over 40 in the boat on Wednesday but the awesome thing was 10 went over 3 1/2 pounds and 4 were over 41/2 pounds- great photo's too! It was cool to see Susan land one 4. 10 and then bond with her fish - As she slowly released it back into the waters, a few casts later we noticed Susan was still on the side of the boat with her huge Brown. She answered our questions with "The fish isn't swimming away," to which Gerry responded - "Take your hand out of his mouth and let go of the tail - AND HE WILL!" .....And finally, after a little coaxing, she did. That is Bonding with your fish, folks. Dave Guided a few Days in the Back water this week and scored big numbers on Rodeau with John Parise and the boys from Cherry Hill NJ for both Pike and Large Mouth Bass. Then later took Nancy and Clyde out for their best day fishing since Mirror Lake in the early 90"s. Mark had a few River tours again and mixed them up between Upper and Lower reservoirs and touching off 60 Smallies and walleyes for Sal Lamatinas Trio from Missouri, we'll get these first timers back into the Northern Algonquin waters again next year. The short 3 day trips are.. well , just to short - in fact we are finding a week to be too short as well as they are going by way to fast.
Off The Water & (Quote of the Week)
I don't mean to get to far from the waters edge on this one folks, but it is worth mentioning, A week and a half ago my nephew Matt and I watched my dad make his first Birdie on the local golf course...... (The K/O sponsored hole..cool!) and if anyone has been bored enough to read this stuff since the beginning, they Know I am still trying to break a 100 game, anyhow the way my dad put put it was "Golfing with my son, great, Golfing with my grandson ... great! - shooting a birdie with them.....PRICELESS! well yesterday I birdied My dads hole and scored 48 for nine holes with no time to do the back, Had to get up to lodge and see how everyone was, but it's a start. ( I won't see a game like that again anytime soon.)
Shoot straight , and if you're canoeing- keep the open side up!
Tight lines, TC
July 22 /00
The Moose & the Caboose
We had another wonderful week of fishing folks. New couples up, John and Linda Gammage along with Gene and Betty Homa reported outstanding guide trips with Mark on the river for both Walleye and Small Mouth Bass. The Geelan group of seven managed 3 new lakes this year on their fourth trip up and put over a hundred bass in each of their 3 boats on two different days! Channel Cats topped the last day out but were stolen from the cooler last night by our meandering camp bear. Several bears have been giving us quite the show out back each evening. Four different moose have been seen this week too but it was Lori Day's sighting that makes the report. While leaving Lake of Tall Pines she got a little wet and had to discard her pants for the trip back to the lodge. While on route a great bull moose appeared on the road and Lori was out of the truck in no time taking pictures. Her husband Doug and daughter Jackie just laughed as she stood in the middle road with a moose 25 yards away when she finally realized she had no pants on. As Doug later said, "The view of the moose and the caboose was just something!"
Randy Aman and Perry Whitmer recorded several walleye days in the 70 and 80 counts this past week too. Some folks like the lake fishing but these guys won't leave the Ottawa River for anything. Randy's up for a second week and I look forward to golfing with him soon. Ken and Ruthie from Pittsburgh Pa.on their 16th trip to the lodge along with friends Butch and Judy George balanced a great week between Musky fishing and river Walleye action this past week. It's 70 degrees today with a little rain coming down this morning. Should be clearing later on and the rest of the week looks great.
Special congratulations to Dave (our river manager) and Dawn (our breakfast cook) as they are expecting their second child. Should be here late February - this will cramp Dave's snowmobiling a little this winter.
Trolling the Rip - Musky and Pike action has come a long way for me this season as I've tried a few techniques that have proved quite successful. Now a lot of people know how I'm pretty much a visual structure type fisherman - I like to cast to the points, rocks and timber. I've started experimenting with a 3 and 4 mph troll in the 15 to 22 foot depth range and keeping a diver 45 ft back and husky jerk 15 foot back right in the back wash of the engines turbulence .(If I have a 3rd angler- they get a buck tail). I'm picking up 3 to 1 just two rod links behind the boat. If I slow the troll down to 2 mph and move to 25 to 30 foot depth were picking up some Hog Small Mouths on the river. Yes it's trolling, and I rarely do it but at mid day while you're chewing on a sandwich it keeps a couple lures in the water.
See you next week, today is check in day and I have to go see some friends that I haven't seen since the sportshows last winter. Tight Lines - TC
July 12 th / Staff BBQ - Fish Fry on the lake front.
We had a great mid season break with all the staff - The food was awesome, the volley ball games and horseshoe throwing were intense and the evening bon fire along with the fireworks was just amazing. We have our work cut out for us as we plan next months staff event.
Life is short, so take time to make that extra cast.
On a more somber note, a good friend of everyone at the lodge tragically past away a couple days ago. Dana Folk, died in a car accident in Greenwich township, Pa. enroute with his 3 foster kids. The kids are fine and in hospital now and should all be okay. I would like to take this time now and make a short cast, Live each day as if it were your last and take a kid fishing sometime. Dana did that with a lot of his foster kids over the many years coming up to K/O. He was a great sportsman and conservationist. We will miss you Dana, and thanks for the memories of great hunts and great fishing trips. You were a true friend of the outdoors and us.
Tight Lines, TC
Sunday, July 9 and I had only a few guide trips go out, storm fronts were threatening and everyone packed rain gear for what was on it's way. Mike and Phil both cut off their trips at noon as the showers started and a little rolling thunder approached. Myself, well just prior to noon we only had one pike and one bass (bass was over 6 lbs) in the boat - very slow morning and I thought too, we should cut the day short. Didn't happen. Half way across the lake while approaching the ramp, Bam, Bam and Bam - All three rods went off only moments apart. 3 Northerns boated and the rain was falling and we were into the action. The next 3 hours saw us hook up 26 northerns and a couple more bass. 2nd time adventurers Karen and Rich Briedenbach of Highlands N.J. would not let me go in until they beat last years day on the same water. We edged it out by a couple of fish and dragged our soaked equipment and bodies back to a warm and welcoming lodge, with heat and hot showers awaiting.
Howard's Lakes Saw action on the 10th as the same front did a one-eighty and rolled back through, but with out the rain. Dave took Howard Brant (star ledger sports writer) and Madelyn Picone (N.J. Fish and game director) into a late afternoon fishing trek. They boated over 30 Bronze Backs with half a dozen over 3 and 4 lbs in only 3 hours. High winds slowed the river trips up a bit, but guides Marty Gutzman and Ron Stack targeted the back waters and protected bays for some great results on both walleye and bass. Mark Scott also toured today and despite the wind picked up northern pike into the teens along with the bass and 'eyes.
July 7th / 00
A week of friends and a chance to fish with some ones I have just made the last several days on the water was pretty incredible. The best walleye fishing season on the Ottawa River is still strong in progress. We have been averaging high temps in the mid 70's and it's been sunny with cloudy periods throughout the days (That forecast has been repeated on the radio straight for the last 10 days and a couple days they got it right too.) With all the trips from the Muskellunge waters to the interior Park lakes and the Laurentian Mountain tributaries, ... well its just hard to know where to begin. Anyhow some of the following names have changed to protect the innocent and I am glad you folks who read this can only get my interpretation. Here Goes...
Accidents happen. - Kicking off the week was a slight set back when my first trip on the water this season with "Bob and BOB" we had trouble right at the docks. Two of us made in the boat, but .. well "BOB" didn't. Now, I've only ever had one person go overboard in the past 15 years and that was with my tour with Rodney Dangerfield, on that one we lost a rod in the water and before I could start fishing it out, "Splash" he was in the water .. er, under it anyway, he found the pole and reboarded - no tip on that one. Oh well, life as a guide. Getting back to the story though - I was holding the boat on the Holden River ramp as my clients boarded, Bob stepped in- no problem, the 2nd guest, "BOB", put one foot in and started wobbling, my instinct was to take her hand and steady her - no problem, she's steady and in my arms. Problem now is no one is holding the boat. And it's going. With one foot in the boat and one on the dock , which are now quickly separating ... well you have the picture. There was a quite moment when Eileen, and I, I mean "BOB", and I looked each other in the eye, moments passed and I said "We are in the boat, or on the dock.... Choose!. Moments passed again and the situation was getting tense.. meanwhile the boat and dock are still getting further apart and a person can hold the "split position" only so long. Decision time.. I said "Look BOB,... I'm going for the Boat and I'll try to take you with me!" ..... One of us didn't make it. "bob"
Tough way to start a day. But seeing how they were up to the lodge for a two week stay we had a rematch on the same water some days later and nailed a few Pike, a dozen walleye and a cool 40 small mouths. Pic's are coming on the "Perfect Cast" page. I have four guides on the water today and have to hit River Dock's before heading up to the lodge and all the entertaining stories, I will be back as a lot more happed the last couple of weeks, thank you both for reading my weekly - Tight Lines, TC
Kicking Bass!
JULY 4 'th - real fireworks!
My pals Eric and Chris, along with their Dad Sam and I shared a couple adventure trips this past week and really lit up the bass. A 4X4 back woods trek saw the boys hookup with over 40 bronze backs with a couple over 4 lbs. (those photo's are at the top of the page) the rough trails, thick deep woods and jumping the old rail way tracks was half the adventure in it's self. A lot of you folks know where we went on that description alone. The T shirts are coming soon, in large print- "I Jumped the Tracks 2000"
We finished off on a River trip where we continued with awesome smallmouth success but complemented the day with 16 walleyes and a few pike - Eric's 4 foot toothy critter came from the depths to attack a 4 inch 1/4 oz twister tail jig and made several runs by the boat before snapping the 20 lbs. test "Fire Line" and a missed attempt with the nets just left us memories and a reason to return. Oh, and 4 of those Walleyes made fine appetizers for several tables prior to the evening meal. It was great to see some of my relatives as they visited up from Erie Pa this past week too. Thanks for the help with the fire works! My aunt Nancy and uncle Bob (A DIFFERENT "BOB" - REALLY!) made the cover our newspaper last season with a nice 9 LB walleye.
The Hot Rod! Mark Scott toured the River and hit everything from walleye, sturgeon, cats and a couple 23 inch smallies. On top of that he hooked into, and landed (and released) a beauty of a 16 LB Northern Pike while out on the river with Lewis, Travis, and Bobby Hull on their first time trip up from Virginia. Thanks for the great article in Woods & Water Magazine by Chris McCotter That put these folks in the K/O Boats.
Young Guns! While fishing the tournament trail for years and then finally kicking back( down to 10 events a year instead of 50) I would like to internet welcome a new guide that truly complements the "K/O tactical force on the H2O". (guides, I mean) Anyway, Phil Schutt not only did numbers this past week in all categories of the " Canadian Grand Slam", He did in style, technique and Savoir Fare' of a true team player. Just ask a few of our new guests that enjoyed his tales, teaching presentations and delivery of product. First time Guests Phil McGloghlin of Suffern new York ( )along with Greg and Carol Tucker of ( ) Connecticut can attest to some down right awesome fishing in the company of someone truly Zealous in the field of fishing .
Rocky and Me...... coming soon.
I thank you folks out there for the email, It is inspiring and is helping me in the new short book and possible mini series on the adventures at a Northern Lodge - we're hoping Neil Young will do the theme music if not, Clear Water Revival will have to do. Stay in touch - tmcarlin@webhart.net tight lies, again - T.C.
June 24th / 00
Opening Bass season kicks off today with a light drizzle threatening and high of 26 degrees Celsius. This past week has been one of best I've seen for the walleye action with record catches recorded by Jay Stellini's group from Delaware. His granddaughter (our cover girl on the newspaper last year) caught a bruiser of walleye close to 7 lbs. Frank Conte's group also had their best year of fishing ever on their 6th trip to the K/O waters. Worm harness with Colorado spinning blades along with Pigmies and Erie Deries showed the best results. I fished with Pat and Ersest White of Kentucky for three days again this year on their 5th trip up and did extremely well with 1/4 oz jigs for walleye and Small Mouth all three days. A fourth day on the water found me with long time friends Frank and Frank Coyne of Mass. and we located bronze backs in shallow water stacked up feeding on small fry and minnows tight to the rocks and pike were caught quite shallow as well on Spinner Baits and Blue Fox'es. Thursday put me back in the boat for our annual trip with Mark Stellini and his two kids, Steve and Rachel. We had an awesome day with many doubles on the line and made time for a fire on the shores of the Laurentian mountains. Check out the photo's on the "cast" page. Dave and Mark ran several tours this week too and reported great catches. Dave McFarlin's crew had record catches in the Park this week while on canoe adventures and Peter and Doug Lemanski had an awesome 8 Musky day while fishing the Chalk. We had folks out on 16 different lakes this week and with opening of bass season we'll open up another 20 more. Hey the sun's coming out and I've got to head up to lodge, hope to see you on the water! We have a full week comming up - Tight Lines, T.C.
"Got To Catch 'em All"
Here We Are, June 16th / 00 (27 degrees Celius Late showers possible) 82 F
Triple digits started the week, yes it took 14 minutes longer than the standard trip but we topped the trip at 100 fish in the boat for the day. Five fish away from the 100 hundred mark made me pick up a rod and give my best 15 minute patterns and presentations to help put us over the hump. We do a couple of 'em a year but we are still talking some awesome numbers here. But where do we start with this week of Wonders? Paul levy's 6 lb - 1 oz Hog of a Small Mouth wins the SMB of the week While Stu is still pondering if his Musky has made the cut. Billy has a big Walleye pending and Steve has the Lg. Mouth with one more day in the tournament. Stu Korn runs a tough program but the prizes are worth it. River trips this week were working great for catches of Bass and Walleye while the lakes gave up the most Muskies and Pike. Heavy storms 3 weeks ago brought on a rush of warm water to the Ottawa through the run off and made the tributaries hot as the Bass took to the spawn a full 7 to 10 days earlier than I have ever seen. The fish have started to move into the main River beds but still staying shallow. The tributary fishing have netted the best results now in the 8 to 15 foot range off points and the bottom sides (down River) of the flats. Although Paul's Small Mouth scaled 6.1 and is the big one of the week Randy'S 6.9 is the largest Small Jaw of the year, while Rob's huge Walleye at 11.3 this week will be a tough one to beat. Largest Pike stays with Vicker's at a solid 22lbs, oh yes and Stu Levy is topping the OTHER category with a 4 lb. Ling - I've said it before folks, when you fish the River, you just don't know what you will bring up!
Baker Clan - June 14th
3 Days with 6 guides out brings in a lot of stories in the evening around "Davey's Bridge" ( That's the Lodges bar) and some of them have truths to them. (Some) The adventures this week were interesting to say the least. Our twelve contenders of Paul Bakers group sent out trips in all compass headings and had family gather at the lodge from all across the continental U.S. A great week was had and I look forward to seeing the gang next season. My fishing with "RED" was a true high lite of the week, Thank you Mitch for being MOD (manager on duty) and setting Levy. Korn and Yates crew in their cabins at their midnight arrival. There is a lot more I should go into here but I have to get up to the lodge. I will have some photo's forth coming, stay in touch, TC - your guide in Canada.
June 14th 2000
We are rounding out another great week of fishing up here folks, I had the opportunity to Fish Holden early in the week and nailed down a solid 67 Bass , Pike and Walleye with Randy and Mark Staffaroni of Allentown, Pa. Mark Scott guided Greg and Don Chaputa to similar results the same day. We caught up with each other late in the afternoon when Mark the guide asked Mark Staffaroni, "So what's working?" To which he answered after a moments hesitation, "EVERYTHING!" And it was true, we caught fish on plugs, chug R's, Spinners, Jigs, Rappala's, left over sandwiches and dirty socks. These fish were turn on. The next day we hit it again as a cold front came down and we were taught a little respect on the river. So what do you do when this happens? You turn to the lakes! We slugged it out with over twenty Muskies the next day and managed eight fish in the boat. The highlight on top of that was Randy's 23 & 3/4 inch Smallmouth that was just under 7 lbs. Friday, the last day came upon us fast and I was still a little leery of returning to the colder water of the Ottawa. The spawn is fast approaching and should be in full swing by mid next week but we elected the smaller water for the finale' and decided "toothy critters" were still our game. We loaded up old 4X4 Brownie, (which is all fixed up by the way) and headed out through the wilderness in search of Lost Lake. We found it and it gave up over 24 Pike and a few awesome 3 to 5 lbs Large mouth.
This week coming will prove quite eventful as we have six guides out for the next six days. So I may be a little late with next up date. Things are still a little on the cool side for this time of year with the high only reaching mid sixties with the smell of a little rain on the way. I hit Canadian Tire this morning for a new rain coat and a few lures that were lost while musky fishing the other day, but now I'm ready to go - Hope to see you on the water soon, T.C.
Front row L. Nancy Arsenault, Heidi Mitchell, Rob McKewan, Angela Gentili, Amy O'Gorman, Laurel LeConte, Charles Russel, and Brenda Desjardins.
Back row L. Gerry Arsenault, Michele Carlin, Dawn Fischer, Pat LeBlanc, Bart Rochon, Terry Sr.,Top-Terry Jr. (missing from photo due to work and other things, Dave Fischer, Jennifer Lance, Sarra Porringer, and lots more ... hey we could only book 4 tee times! Next trip is is sponcerd by Clyde Miller of Md - looking forward to it!
June 1st "The Event"
Charlie's Angel's take the cup!
Our annual charity Golf event for CHEO (Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario) went out with a swing and a swing and many more swings - of the 16(staff) of us who participated a full half were non golfers - but that was soon to change, we're pro's now! Popa bear's Bruins led by Terry Sr. had the lowest score at 39 and 1/2 (1/2 ? i'll have to see where a 1/2 comes from.) While my own team (T.C.'s Top Cat's) scored a close second at 43 - Jerry's Accelerator's Scored closest to the pin awards and Terry Sr. had the longest drive - my girls said I had beat him by a solid 10 yards but Chuck said the the award winning hat looked better on Sr., ....I agree. That brings us back to Charlie's Angels... They scored a great 51 for 9 holes... we didn't tell anyone that in This Game, high scores wins.. hey if you all don't like the rules, buy your own Lodge! Charlie and his girls win the cup this year and a good time was had by all .
The Pike Adventures Happen!
May 30th 00
16 Pike in the Boat along with a half dozen bass and a cross country trek highlighted my week when I spent time on the water with Tony and Tony Calabrese, dozens of walleye fell to them with a couple of prior "Mark Trips" on the lower Ottawa. I did have a few troubles with my wheels this past week. My Blue suburban lost its rear end while up in the Laurentian Mountains and should be fixed up tonight, in the mean time my Brown 3/4 ton is resting out near Lost Lake with a bad leg, - I'll retrieve it tomorrow, thank goodness the lodge has a spare truck.. it worked really well until I blew out the rear planitary today (never heard of one before .. but I know now.. $1500.00 worth) . Any way I'll be on the road and everything will be set to rock and roll by the weekend. Quote of the week - Tony Calabrese says to me "You know Terry, everyone has to be somewhere - we just found our spot." after that we walked back to lodge from Lost Lake and my brown truck is still waiting my return. A little exercise after those big K/O meals is often needed - Back to the fishing, Vicker's crew have put a couple of 20 and 22 pound pike in their boats this week, photo's to come soon to the "Cast" Page.
TC
May 27th /00
Bill Slavick and Russ Logan of new Jersey started our river fishing season off last week, with some good catches of both Pike and Walleye doing best in the secluded bays and back waters. As the week progressed John Tailor and his buddies Rich and Mark from near Wooster Mass. found the north shore rivers and creeks brought in the biggest pike and the most action. Mark Scott toured with Jim and Jim jr. Gay of Pennsylvania and picked up over 50 walleyes on the 30 to 35 foot flats along the southern side of the River. We welcomed back yesterday Joe Nubert and clan of 14 from Buffalo for their second year adventure. They are out on the River today staking their claims up and along the Schyanne and Indian river mouths.
May 9th, 2000
"Involve me and I may understand. Tell me and I may forget, but show me so I will remember." "E-Mail me and I'll keep the updates coming!"
Yes I know it's been awhile, but really... We have been busy. Opening Easter was just great, 3 weeks earlier to our normal start up but everyone was glad to be back in to it. With such an early spring we just had to start off a little early and KICK things up a few NOTCHES ... and BAM!!! Here we go! opening Walleye and Pike is on this Friday coming and we are set to go. River docks are in and the water is a little low because of the light snow fall and no warm water run off to speak of. Plenty of rain in the last two days should bring things up a bit but I'm expecting a late spawn due to the colder river conditions. On the lake front Sierra, at 5 yrs old, caught her first fish of the year ...on the "Fly Rod"! ( Dad helped her hook it - but she did the rest) T.J. has honors of being the first one in the pool. Pop Pop Carlin talked him into jumping into 55 degrees of cool water before the heater was hooked up! Thank goodness the Hot Tub was at 100 and it was a thankful warm up.
In the Kitchen
Well we have a few new items for you folks to enjoy this season. The other night I took the line over from Nancy to practice the skills I lost 10 years ago and did pretty good, (I thought) then the next busy night Michele and I chopped, prepped and cooked together on another busy night - after that, Nancy took her kitchen back - and said that I would make a good dishwasher for the season. I am so misunderstood! ... Bam ! Anyway she has things like Chicken Patricia, The Woods and Lake Platter, a full Rack of Back Ribs and the Cornish Game Hen for some new entrees. Don't worry the Prime rib, Maple Pork Chops, Walleye, Pastas and other favorites are still there folks. New appetizers include Michele's awesome Spinach Dip with Tri Colored Tortilla Chips and the desserts are even better now with the "Bourbon Street Pecan Pie" topping the list.
I do like to talk about food but I am anxiously awaiting to make that first cast on the River and jig up an appetizer of walleye for this Friday's dinner. I'll try to touch back in couple of days but Dave and I are going into the Laurentions for some trout fishing tomorrow and we have a banquet at the lodge the following night. We are going to it and thanks folks, for e-mailing and yes I have been a little lax in my up dates of late. Soon we'll be talking "FISH" so stay tooned because,
WE ARE TAKING THINGS UP A FEW NOTCHES ... AND BAMMM !
It's going to be fun, TC
Oh yes, we have a "quote of the week", This one goes to Charlie ( My buddy, the dining room manager) but you have to know the lodge set up and lay out to truly appreciate this one. - Anyway; A new couple came out to the lodge last week for their anniversary diner and asked Chuck on arriving, " Could we have a table closest to the water?" ... "Sure, Chuck answered, as he walked them through the dinning room.... would you like that inside or, uhmm ... out?"
(It would not have been the first time!)
March 16th 2000
A late snowfall has turned landscapes back to a winter paradise. Dave and Mark are recording great catches of speckled trout from the interior lakes around the park. Thoughts are turning to opening up the lodge for another great season as we approach April. Our sights are set for an Easter weekend opening of the dining room and Michele and I along with our chief cook, Nancy are planning to attend a special food show in Ottawa next week to see what new things we can bring to the menu this year. We would like to welcome a long time friend, Charlie Russell to the K/O team this year as our new director of restaurant services. Chuck is a fellow hotel / restaurant graduate from Canadore College. While spending many years out at Banff Springs Alberta, the draw of the Ottawa Valley has brought him back to our area. We will have a few new faces complement our staff this year but most who you know are still here to see you all through a great year of fun, food and awesome catches. I'll stay in touch with any new breaking news. Your guide in Canada, Terry Jr.
January 24th 2000 (A continuing fishing guides log...)
I hope everyone has had a great holiday season and are little less "Snowed In" than we are. The Sportshows have started and we're already seeing some old friends in N.J. and Pa. The Ice is over 14 inches thick and Mark (our active winter Guide) reports great catches of White Fish and Walleye. Plans for accessing some speckled trout lakes are in the making. I swapped Venison steaks for Smoked White Fish prior to the holidays and must say I got the better on the deal with Mark. Right now the bookings are very good but June and September are filling up fast. We shouldn't start loosing our mid summer weeks until after the Big Show in Harrisburg in early February. Our annual Super Bowl party on the lake is fast approaching and should start early Sunday afternoon with some snowmobile rides and sliding with a bonfire for the Chile and the dogs. Right now we have poor Dave just cleaning snowmobile carbs and keeping the sleds tuned up. He'd rather be by the docks and setting up the river tours, but we have a few more months to go for that yet. Yes, mid winter is "Cabin Fever" time, and all we can do is make virtual casts for now but soon we'll be throwing the new patterns of the millenium to those fishes that haven't seen sophisticated, talented and well tuned presentations that only a long cold winter can perfect. Well it may only be dreamed but if you are day dreaming, its hard not to think of that perfect cast to that rocky point or that slow jigging drift through "Catfish Alley".
Anyway the updates will remain coming in slow until the season begins but if anyone is interested in reviewing some great tours we had in '99 just scroll down. And if anyone has been casting down south somewhere, please let us know how and where you made out.
Thanks folks... Tight lines,
Terry Carlin Jr.
October 26th 1999 " Season Closure "
We'll folks I haven't been fishing lately, Most of my rods have been broken down, oiled and put way for a while. I prefer about 4 to 5 inches of ice - I can wait. All equipment and cabins have been shut down and put away for the season. Our last IN House guests departed a few days ago with the ending of Moose season, we ended up with two Moose for the group! Kim and Roger Tremblay along with my wife Michele and I, and Daniel and Jean- Pierre of Hawksbury, Ont - had one great hunt. So great we'll have Moose at the Fish Fry's again for next year! ( full compliments to Daniel Laduc, - our straight shooter for '99). Now that the fishing is done for a little while, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to everyone who helped make our 1999 season so special. Most importantly our past guests. My appreciation for a great staff and friends along with special thanks to my mom and dad and my sister Kelly and brother Mike and my extended brother Dave, thanks for making it work and lets do even better in the next century! Special congratulations go out to my sister on her wedding and my new brother in law Edward Fick - no he is not a game warden (Whew!) - so special welcome to the family Ed. One more congratulations to a long time friend of mine, Dwayne Adams and his new wife Carolyn - great wedding last week buddy, great party, really great party and golfing was pretty good too. The priest may not have been too impressed with me putting a golf tee into the tray with your two wedding rings , but what's a best man to do? - Use the blessed tee wisely. Well my buddy is in Hawaii, my sister is in Italy and my folks are on their way to Aruba. I'll be here for a while until my Deer trips come up in late November - Maryland and New York trips for this year. Mike and I are watching the lodge for now and fending phone calls. This next year is going to be spectacular and well folks, I am so looking forward to it - new lakes, new water and adventures await! Stay in touch my friends and as something of interest comes up, I'll keep you posted Thanks again for a swell '99 and we'll see you all next season!
Tight Lines. TC
A Grand Ending! Sept, 24th
The season's not over yet but the brilliant fall colors are starting to spread out along the waters shoreline. I did my finale Musky trip with newly weds Richard and Pat Fischer of Long Island N.Y. (69 years old, and just got hitched last week!) After touring a couple days with Mark and catching 40 walleyes one day and over 50 Bronzebacks the next, I knew I had my work cut out to bring closure to their weeks stay. My choice, "Toothy Critters" Back to the Chalk for some Muskellunge action. Still looking for my Husky Jerk. Richard never caught a musky before and was right into it. He landed 4 himself and Pat lost and landed one too. We put Five in the Boat, hooked three more that shook loose, and had another 5 followers. 1/2 dozen fat 2 to 4 pound Large Mouth Bass came into the boat between the Musky action, It was a great day on the water, and we had the lake to ourselves again. Tom Shnieder with Mark Sandle and the boys are wrapping up their 3rd K/O trip with an awesome catch of Bass and Walleyes. Their first tour to K/O waters was two Junes ago, but they now prefer the Fall fishing - Highlights of big ones go out to Chris for a giant 5 plus Smallmouth in Holden, Bob's 42 inch Northern in the 1st Presquille (Caught Photoed & Released) and Claudes daily catch of magnificent Walleyes! This weekend will see Charter Captain Paul Lowendowski out of Sodas Pt. N.Y. and his buddies try for lakers and walleye - looking forward to it. The Moose season is fast approaching so I'll be a little busy with that too. Oh Yes and my sister, Kelly is getting married next weekend! almost forgot. Things will be busy this week, I'll try to update soon - Tight lines, TC
Gone too long!
Three weeks chasing bears - we had some great times and met some super people , but now we're back in the fishing mode!
I've spent the last two days River fishing with Jay and his Dad, Fran Plumley of Harrisburg Pa. The old bronze backs performed like I hadn't taken a day off the water, the last 3 weeks. Over 40 Small mouth the first day - with an incredible double catch by Frank ( while taking the hook out of a three pounder, Fran discarded the hook over the side to hold his trophy for a photo....WHAM ... another took his bait inches from the surface) great double Frank! The sun was shining and the wind picked up making deep water drifts for the walleye difficult - so we kept going back to 3 to 6 foot shoals and picking off 1 1/2 to 3 pound small mouth all day! Quote of the day, Frank says to me, after two hours fishing, "You Know Terry, we've caught more fish today than in a whole week at Crotch lake last year". Cool ( I knew it was only going to get better, and it did!)
How do you top that? Well different guides do different things - how so? Mark Scott had no problem traversing difficult wind swept Points. While I nailed 40 plus Bronze backs with out a single Walleye - Mark picked up 40 walleye on the same day without a single Small Mouth - go figure! So how did we top the the first day? - we didn't catch as many ( 35 ) but almost doubled the poundage! 6 Bass between 3 1/2 to 6 lbs and and 30 more attitude adjusted bass between 1 to 3 lbs, also Pike and Walleye finally found the ends of our lines and the inside of the boat. Rain started the day, ran throughout the day and chilled a windy afternoon. Slight hypothermia set in for a not to prepared guide having no slick pants, but we endured ...and learned.
September 7th
Thanks Laurie and Daniel from Mich. Just got your great photo's and will upload them soon. ( My digital camera didn't down load my copy properly - something about a "broken image", I'll figure that thing out this winter.)Laurie and Doug Day of Northern N.J. just sent some great pic's of their early Aug ventures which will also be up soon! Thanks again Folks! Tim, Ron and Wayne Reis of Southern Ohio tore up the River with one Mark guided trip and several on their own this week as well as early arrivals Coke a Cola Bill of Piscataway N.J.and along with Russ Logan, (Quiet Bill) and Al' merini. With no exception Bob Clark from San Francisco and his buddy Mike from Philadelphia, Pa. sank lures down the center of the river (35 to 48 foot) to net many Walleye's and huge sturgeon along with a few pike and Channel Cats. Mark Scott has had all tours -up and below while I have been busy with a quick Fall Bear season. On closing opening week we have had an incredible shot success of 94 %. Carrying, tracking, long nights and great stories have truly made this week super. Special note: Bud Haven just turned 87 on Thursday and capped the week with his fifth bruin - off hand at 100 paces he dropped his fine bruin just behind the lodge. Giant Bear of the Week goes to Mike Ivone- Three Hundred and an even fifty pounds - Wow! New Week is coming up!
August 31, 1999
"When Bears Attack"
New reports out across Ontario show that a 50% underestimation was recorded for the Provincial Black Bear population. (These reports were made known only to the provincial government, months prior to the politically motivated and and PETA / shad foundations sponsorship. A 40 million dollar industry, essential to the Northern communities was lost just to receive favorable votes in metropolitan areas of Southern Ontario.( By the way, PETA does not stand for ( PEOPLE EATING TASTY ANIMALS.) Ontario has approximately 130 to 150 Thousand bruins roaming our northern woods. 1999 has recorded an increase of 80 % more nuisances bears and close encounters. Thank goodness for Fall hunting season starting tomorrow! You should see my barn out back - The front double door is shredded, windows are broken out and the side walls have been chewed through, all this for some horse grain. This was going to just be a fishing site, but a few friends have logged on requesting some hunting information, so I'll add a little of that - Hey if you request it by e mail I'll try to post it. Just ask.
Fire Danger - moderate to High (60%)
High today of 78 degrees with a nights low of under 40 degrees expected. Sunny without a cloud in the sky. A few tree's have already started turning reds and yellows, beautiful.
August 25th
Kelly's Hero's
I fished today with Joe Bovine. Joe was in WW II at the age of 21 in 1943, - 70 % of his company didn't come home from Europe... It made me think of "Private Ryan" It made me think of a lot of things, folks. With the army engineer's he built the bridges that got our troops through... with the engineer's he saw a lot of his comrades not come home. These are a few of the interesting friends I have met on the waters, while fishing the Algonquin Region.
How many folks have fished with spark plugs for sinkers... did you know that the Lure Jensen was first brought to the market in 1935...I know now, that if I want to catch a, permit - or many species off the Florida Coast - just how to catch those "hermit crabs" for bait, and look out sharks!!! ( almost works as well as a well used and mauled frog!)
Seven Muskellunge attacked - bombarded and followed us up to the boat today -16 or so Bass, hit us with incredible diligence - one 4 !/2 pounder was photo'd and released. Joe and I had a great Day On the Water!
"Off the Docks"
Anything can happen, close to home, Chris McCotter's crew from Virginia have been having a great week of fishing, Out of 13 people I think only two are missing their "Grand Slam", of boating all major species - Muskellunge, Pike, Walleye and both Small and Large Mouth Bass. Two more days to go yet. A couple of their boats put a record 22 Northerns in the boat with a couple of 6 lb Large mouth yesterday in Lost Lake, while Leon and Barbara caught 35 small mouth and a monster pike up in Holden. Scott Spencer and his buddy Terry have been tearing up the Lower River for Small Mouth and nailing huge walleye on the surface flipping "Flukes"! Off the Dock's record Small Mouth goes to John Hawkins while fishing at dusk on the home lake and bringing in one 5 1/2 pounds ( His Picture is on - "The Perfect Cast Page". and the last of crew - Duane, Richard and Sammy are on tour today for a second time with Mark on the River,( update before print- they did 85 fish for the day with some awesome brutes!) Their Monday trip with Mark netted some 30 walleye and plus 30 bass as well. Fire danger jumped a little above MODERATE today. Things have become quite warm the last few days with high humidity and delayed starts at the dock because of heavy morning fog. Yesterdays Temps climbed to 88 degrees and today it has gone up to 85. I'll be missing fishing this week end, due to our annual charity golf tournament - I'm still trying to break 100 strokes - yes for 18! (and I am close) This makes 7 games for me this year - ( Update before printing - 77 strokes, yes we did play best ball - still working) a personal high. September Musky turn on, and River Pike Runs, are are just around the corner.... I'll get back soon, Tight Lines, T.C.
We are back! Aug 30th
Finale notes on the month ending, Leon and Richard broke the record (just as Sammy Sosa is pending) with a total catch of 24 pike in one boat in one day ! Totals for the week for that group - 24 inch walleyes, 30 muskies and 516 bass for the week, Oh, and one sturgeon - you know there is an army of sturgeon out there, there must be - after all there is a sturgeon general, ... right! ... Bad one I know. The McElrath group at the river tore up the mighty Ottawa with netting Sturgeon, Pike and nasty giant Channel Cats that broke poles and tore through nets. Finally Bud Staples and the boys ventured everywhere over the last 20 years of trips, but topped their last one with two new waters and umpteen bass - green clouds clouded some days on the boat but they scored some awesome fish on there weeks stay. Hey, and thanks for the Maryland peaches and apples.
See you all at the end of September, and thanks for reading, Terry Carlin Jr.
August 20th
"Fearful Attacks"
I know, the postings were not supposed to be as frequent this time of year, but after a couple days "off water" and listening to the adventurous folks doing it, well I have to, you know...so here we go...
"Two thumbs way up ", for John Marshalecks crew who are closing the week , partly on Jameses lake, and two new ones, Pokemons and Teens lakes! They scored plentiful smallmouth today with 3 more muskies boated - Ray Lord took the biggest in 30 feet of water and they had the lake to themselves all day. We look forward to seeing you folks again at the end of September. Full congratulations to the Jim Thompsons crew of Virginia, whacking and stacking Three more muskies today too. Highlight of the day, was Kevin Bova's family capping the evening fish on their first stay, ( straight out from the docks of the Lodge ) with 13 awesome walleye's.
(One of my old english teachers (9th grade I believe) ( Mrs. McWilliams) alway said that I had a problem with - run on sentences - spelling - dynamic pentameters - what are they? and prepositions.) (I'll try not to use too many.) She said, "It will all come back to haunt you." It is now, ... so please, bear with me, ( I probably have a problem with, these darn brakets too ( ) too.) More than likely, too many comma's aswell! So please accept these notes as they are and keep the e mail simple, thanx. Hey please note this too, that this is my first year trying to post what's happening, so if you like it please let me know, and I'll keep doing it. Someone asked me to post the fire warnings for the Park last week , so I'll add that to the regular reading - "Low to Medium" I believeve thats pretty safe, but a good note to add.
more to come tc
"Burning Lines"
And They Were! Water temp is dropping fast with the last few cool nites (down to the low 50's but the days are still warming up to the mid 70's - Autumn coming. . . Quick ) New guest's this week had the burning lines on the Chalk system, ?the Fussels pounded tight shoreline on Corry and turned to big #5 buck tails to score a couple muskies over three feet. They continued on to Holden Lake to boat scores of small mouth and photo shot a double catch of Bronze backs over 5 lbs - see pic's on the "Cast" page The Small mouths turned deep and were hitting deep running cranks in plus 30' foot of water. The Peirce party have toured five different lakes this week and boated umpteen bass and a couple of pike and muskies - 4 th time up and they've still manage two new lakes in the week stay ! Finally, I did that trip with Stu and Pam Levy into the back waters and netted Pam with her biggest bass she ever caught - 5 1/4 pound bronzer, 19 other bass flipped - sky rocketed and performed awesome feets of wonder as a beautiful August day drifted on - one of my less stressful and most enjoyable days on the water - I am still trying to shake my mid summer cold. (cough, cough) Other events are coming......
"Fearfull Attacks" ( Coming Soon )
August 17th
"Birthday's and Light shows!"
Wow! What a showing of storms and electricity last nite. At 2:00 am (Crack-Sizzle) - woke up the camp with an amazing thunder and lightning storm. New oxygen and washed river bank feed swept into the tribrutaries and made Tuesday pretty awsome - Unguided Stu Levy dropped 20 walleyes into the boat as fast as he could rig Pam and a couple of dozzen bronze backs. I ventured North with Al and Linda Panara and boated over 30 small mouth on sunken humps in on 3 to 6 foot of water - a couple on the "Page" over 4lbs! Mike stirred the Musky waters with Frank and Cliff Sturt of N.J. calling up five - and some pretty good Bass to boot. Mark highlighted the day wth 30 plus walleye and 30 plus bass on the Lower River - Very Nice - with first timers of. Hey, I took the day off fishing yesterday for my youngest son's birthday - Aaron, he turned two and we had campfire burgers, marshmellows and dogs - A great day! And he knew it was his!. Marshalecks crew conquered "Lake of Tall Pines" with many bass and are now organizing the Ultimate Venture into Sierra's lake tomorrow, and into the Park's - Mcmannus lake the next. I'll travel with Stu and Pam Levy into the " jump the tracks" lake tomarrow as well. I send fond farwells to Chet and Janet as well as Chuck and Judy, as their 10 days with us has come to a close - thanks gang, we enjoyed the morning coffees and tales and trails. New Ventures await! .... And I'll keep the interested posted - Tight Lines. T.C.
(oh yeay, almost forgot Daves quote of the week - after a particularly busy 15 minutes at the docks and everyone had gone out for their morning ventue... Dave wearily sits down on the steps, wipes his brow, turns and looks up at me saying " Sheeze, These people are acting like a bunch of heads with thier chickens cut off!") he really ment it. TC
(a fishing guides log) Aug 13th 1999
"A Day with Chetski"
It's a Raining outside. It's really raining hard outside....
Mark is on Tour at the river today, going after walleye's and pike, and getting very wet. The next three days are calling for scattered showers broken up by pockets of rain, mixed in with wet periods. I'm home and dry- cause no one fishes in the down pours on Friday the 13th- right? Well Dad (Terry Sr.) is out in the big boat, the "Dream Weaver" and probably down towards Chalk Bay with the Roszkowskies and the Monroes. Down rigging and using planer boards and working the divers to about 30 foot. Speaking of the Monroes, Chuck and Judy of Central Ohio have had some entertaining days, catching 70 plus bass one day and sneaking up on Moose another. After viewing a spectacular Bull with 50 inches of antler, Judy saw another on the other side of the lake. "The Hunt Was On!" Skillfully working the 20 hp Johnson motor in the "Stealth Mode", Chuck was able to maneuver his craft up to 40 yards of an overturned tree - and it didn't run away! It really did resemble a larger member of the Deer family. Really. Great practice on sneaking up on those moose, Chuck! Rich and Betsy Platt of N.J. charted some new water this week and while travelling and catching Smallmouth and Walleye's on Holden Lake, Smallies and Channel cats on Mery lake, they capped the week off by exploring the Baron Canyon for ultimate Bass action while drifting through 300 foot glacier cliffs in Algonquin Park. Betsy and Rich took time out to help set up a couple of first timers (Mike and Alan Underwood) to the lodge, who broke their poles in, on five different waters on their week trip.
Now let's get back to the heading! Hey now I've fished with long time friends Janet and Chet Roszkowskie for over 12 years, and the experiences have been exciting, interesting, work intensive, wet, dry... and well, did I mention INTERESTING, yes I guess I did. Tactfully maneuvering my guide days not to conflict with Friday the 13 th , - on Wednesday Night fish fry we organized our venture to take place the next day. Janet wanted to catch her first Musky - the Place - The Chalk River system. And come the morning not 40 minutes into an unproductive shoreline, had Janet raise the Question ..."So Terry, ... have you ever had a day that you never caught a fish?" ...."Never." I answered as I rolled my colt cigar around my mouth and pulled down the brim of my faded favorite guide hat. and that's the truth. That made me reflect on old guides proverbs, one in particular goes, "How do you know when your guide is lying?" (answer) His lips are moving!
Minutes after Jan's well timed question, we had an explosion on a White spinner bait followed by another on a well presented Zara Spook - Jan followed the second roll over with the ultimate live frog presentation which, after a loud and entertaining battle, netted her with her first Muskellunge. In memory of Colonel Art and his wife Jan ... and rodney moose, we passed around a water bottle and and a diet coke. Thanks for your memories Art. The day picked up from there with 3 more Musky's boated, 7 more surface attacks and follows, and an even dozen bass. One tipped the scales at 5 and 3/4 pounds - You go Jan! See the Pic's on the Perfect Cast page. Chet gave the day closure as he showed his guide his personal "Hot Spots" where we boated one more musky and four more thick and attitude adjusted Large and Smallmouth Bass. Looking at the Roster for next week, I'LL probably be on the water some time with the Panara's and Levy's (second time this year) I'm looking forward to it. ....... Hey, the rain stopped.
tight lines, t.c. - P.S. hey Dave & Sue, give me an E mail now in again, the counter has had a work out and is still clicking! thanx. PPS Dee your pictures are coming Michele and I saw them and now I have find them, they will be up there soon, thanx for waiting for 'em. Bob and Ileen - great photo's huh - talk to you all soon! One more thing ( or two) Rich and Betsy brought up some great Jersy tomatoes - Michele just had a toasted sandwich and raved! so much for my luches the next couple of days. Hey Mark Harper if your still reading I'LL send that rod to a buddy as soon as I stop fishing and figure out who's comming up soon - Keep the Mepps # 5, break it in on Jersey water and I'LL get it from you next spring. Stu Korn- the Ultralite Rod is AWESOME !!! I lost a couple of 4's t0 6' es while canoeing Lucky with Sean Cotton, but the thriller in Algonquin was well worth it!
Last thought folk's - get some rain for next year, I really miss that Ohio and Jersey corn! small wonders, - make the day go by a little sweeter! I'm Having a tomatoe sandwich and closing the day.
Aug 11 th
"The Wolves are back!"
Stan McIvee seen a lone wolf out back while 4 wheeling and getting stuck in an electric line bog, but still made it back for a 12:07 tee off with Terry Sr. Blackie The name off of my new young wolf friend made two appearances on Tuesday and Three other Blackies, but in the bear format, have been entertaining lodge guests all over the property these past two weeks. Laurie and Daniel Wilson of Lansing Michigan Fished with me on Sunday and Monday this week and boated Thirty-eight and 46 fish in consecutive days! Highlights were a River run Smallmouth 5 and 3/4 pounds (great battle Laurie) and Dan's bass master tactics of nailing 4 bass over 4 pounds in row, over a 20 minute time line. Very Cool! River Temps are still in the 71 to 73 range while the shallower lakes are 75 to 77 degrees. Spring fed lakes are 1 to 3 degrees cooler. Well folks I won't be posting as often, as I'm into a bear watch program and will drop my guide days considerably over the next seveal weeks. I'll keep you posted on Mark's tours and touch base a little now and again. Tomorrow, Chet and Janet and I will tour the "Chalk" for Muskies! Water Wolves! It's after 11:00 so I should get some sleep see you soon. Hey by the way, does anyone read this? e mail me if you do - Thanx, Tight Lines, TC
Aug 7th "They are out their......@!#X!"
Paying for the late July heat and and sleep we're making up for it now! Wow what a great two weeks its been! The end of July saw the Walleye river fever! Awesome River ventures by first timer Randy Aman of Virginia logged several evening fishes of plus 30 'eyes and a couple of Northerns in the teens. It's hard to believe that it's been 6 days straight on the water _ sun must be getting to me, so I have to look in the log book just to remember the last 10 days, thanks to the daily entree's and a digital camera - the memories and good times are as follows; Lake Temperature - 76 degrees, some back bays 77. River surface temp71 to 72 degrees and above the dam saw 73 and tributaries saw 74 degrees - So go figure that one! W e did See these awesome pic's on the "Cast page" But before I go into details on trips, - Todd First Time up and after landing two Smallmouth over 4 lbs., watched as his brother hooked and distant released a 6 plus Bass ... his comments - straight from the X Files - quote, " They're out there ...@!#!XX ! " end quote, Saying that now here's the scoop...Oh one more thing, I found out that there's more 3 or 4 of you folks checking out this page. Sorry for the delay but I've been guiding 10 straight days and checking the hit list and e Mail theirs about 60 to 80 people reading the write ups - cool , I will endeavor to post things more diligently, here goes,
Week of the wolves!
Stu Korn his son and I closed Sunday with 1/2 dozen Northerns in the morning before his Ottawa N.Y. flight home. Pike were good but the wind was treacherous - highlight of the trip- 4 four young Timberwolves played out on the pipe line chasing chipmunks and frogs as we watched. Pretty cool!
Monday saw Sharron and Thad Grud (infamous with Ramsey Sports) of Northern N.J. knocking off 2 and 3 pound small and large mouth bass on Lake of Tall Pines - 74 for the Day. Seventy - Four for the day- pic's on the "cast Page" Tuesdays challenge "Jump the Tracks!" John Parise and his two daughters, veteran son Mike and his wife took to the back waters and saw Laurie nail three Bronze backs over 4 pounds and days end total of 46 fish great day! On the return trip we watched a single Timberwolf frolic on the line.
Wednesday took me back to water I first cut my teeth on - an adventure trip ( love them ) in to the park - leave the motors behind and be prepared to carry! - Sean cotton and I canoed the Edge and the Wilderness area along with John and Mike for the day, we tried to get into Sierra's lake but too many downed tree's forced us back on a back up, so we jumped into Lucky and banged 30 to 40 small mouth per boat bumping the 3 1/'2 pound range and John took three over 4. Sean needed a little first aid but being a G.P. he self administer just fine (Missing a 6 pound Bronze had nothing to do with a dislocated thumb. right Sean?) Speaking of G.P.'S special thanks to DR. Tom Trosko of P.A. , a first bee sting in 15 years and Tom shot me up with a needle of cortisone and I felt just fine, he also did several other house calls for the camp that week that everyone is grateful for, Thanks Tom .
Another day is dawning, Thursday took me back into the waters of toothy critters! Holden gave up Pike ,Walleye and and an amazing amount of Solid thick and attitude Small Mouth!!! Pic's on the cast page! Brothers Kirk and Todd of N.Y. whacked and stacked SEVERAL DOZEN SMALLMOUTH AND 7 OF WITCH WERE OVER 3 POUNDS , TWO OVER 4 TO 5 ARE ON THE "page".
Friday I was out with Kirk and Todd again - Awesome - I need to say no more. - Saturday I took a trip - I don't usually fish on check in days for guests, but you know, ...Well I broke the rule and long time friend Brad McIvee of Pennsylvania and I chased and caught 7 Bass over 3 lbs. and two over 4 and totaled 36 fish in just an a.m. trip! A slow day is coming but right now to quote the quote of the week the bite is on and "They are out there....@#!% ! On closing the day Brad and I watched five wolves dance on the line and answer imitation howls ( done not to well ) A new black wolf made his first appearance today too and has joined the pack. be back next week or at least I'll try - As my friend Dave Stewart Tel's me - Tight Lines! and if you are canoeing, "keep the open side up!"
July 25th
The normal late July slow down of "sports" and clients gave most of the guides an easy week. Still, Mark and I managed a half dozen trips between us and did very well. After closing last week with back to back musky trips, I found myself enjoying the fever and pushed my luck to a 3rd consecutive outing, going after these "toothy critters"! We put 3 more brutes in the boat on Sunday and managed another dozen fat 2 to 3 lb bass, the pattern was a little different than the last two trips but we found the active fish in less than 2 feet of water in the spear heads and thick pads. Meanwhile Mark tore up the the lower and upper River with locating 50 bass and a dozen walleye's on one outing. I later took an edge of the Park adventure trip with the Mills, Gerry, Suzann and their son Jeff. We hooked up with lots of numbers in the a.m.(about 40 small mouth) all in the 1 to 2 1/2 pound range - then the wind picked up and we hooked into 5 bass all over 4 pounds and a beauty of 5 3/4 bronze back that you can see on the "perfect cast" page. Still a week of very warm weather for us with the temps going into the 90's and high 80's throughout the week. Late Friday thunderstorms kicked in and put some fresh oxygen on the surface so I'm looking forward to this weeks trips - we'll keep you posted.
Tight lines, T.C.
July 17th
An interesting week of weather - dodging Sun showers and 10 minute down pours proved positive as most fish responded by moving into the shallow waters (in side) the pad line. Buzz baits And tandem Spinners baits territory. This made Sunday (11th) fishing great as in the A.M. hours saw Rich and Karen Breidenbach of Bergen county, N.J. take 13 Northerns - Two of which were on ultra light tackle! The afternoon saw two dozen bass move into the same strike zones. Andy Anderson and his friends, Randall, Doug and Bob from Springfield Mass, have some great photo's to share on the perfect cast page - 5 Bronze Backs over 4 pounds on one of their interior lake day trips. Wednesday took me back to the River for some Walleye action, while sharing the boat with Loyal Pease of Virginia, we landed some awesome 4 1/4 -4 3/4 and 5-1/4 pound 'EYES' 10 to 15 ft shoals found the most active fish, and we had to put up with feisty small mouths intermixed on the same humps and flats. Meanwhile back at the camp Mike and Mark both had full schedules as well and Dave traveled the Park and Jeff did some tournament fishing to the east. I'll report their adventures later - I closed the week with two great musky trips that boated six brutes and had follows in in the teens - still didn't find my orange husky jerk. A 7 pound large mouth and a 5 pound Small mouth with Chet and Nora Krawiec added frosting to the trips as well as many foot ball size 2 to 4 pound bass. Very hot and and unseasonable temperatures in the high 80's slowed some mid day action but was made up for in the earlier and later hours of the days. Tight lines, T.C.
July 10th 1999
The guides were busy this week ( as usual )- Mark was running river trips and doing awesome on Walleye, Smallies and Pike, while I ventured above the dam and into four other lakes. Musky action was intense as I boated a nice 14 pounder along with three others and 6 more up to the boat (but not in) Enjoying this trip with me was Don and Barbara Ecker who report for the Bergan Record in Northern N.J. Dave back lake adventured on several trips this week and did great for small and large mouth both. Mike recorded several River trips this week got his guest some great 4 plus small mouths and walleye, he also toured the chalk river and put 5 muskies in the boat on one outing. The Harper and Hemphills of New Egypt N.J. (who grace our last years cover newspaper) took 7 Muskies on one outing. Bob and Eileen Marks of Long Island N.Y. will make the paper again this year with some great catches. Frank and Frank Coyne of Mass. helped put several good walleye and 70 plus Small Mouths on one outing with me as well. Jeff Wilkins and Chris Hart have plans on Musky tomorrow we will see what happens - One note before I close, I'm missing a 6 inch orange Rapala husky jerk - it can be found on the bottom lip of an 7 1/2 LB Musky, it was snapped loose of my fire line while I lost interest in the fish when a 4 1/2 foot monster came out of nowhere and repeatedly struck at the smaller Musky - if found - .please return. Nick Sperrazzi of Buffalo N.Y. knows this bethmoth to exist as last week, when his dad reached for his minnow bucket hanging from the boat he noticed a long and very wide torpedo of a fish snapping at the pail! Jim Hemphill knows the place to look as he watched this monster stare down his trolling motor prop but would not be fooled by anything in his tackle box - never think your bait might be too big or ugly while fishing for these brutes. More happened this week and I'll get back, to soon finish up but for now the river is calling.
Tight Lines,
One of Your Guide's in Canada, Terry Carlin Jr.
July 4th 1999
The skies opened up to for their own interpretation of the 4 th of July, Thunder storms knocked out power for a little while and brought down dozens of trees - fortunately no damage was done and a few hours of chain saw work put things back in order. The fronts didn't effect the fishing though - opening bass week was incredible with Bill Rust and Ken Edwards of Ohio recorded a personal best by boating 675 bass between 5 lakes and the river - this was also their 15th stay at K/O and their past experience help a lot. This week also brought in some great photo,s of Jay Stellini's 6 pound 5 oz Large mouth caught and released in Sullivan Lake, Later in the week saw his grand daughter Rachel boat a 6 plus one also (check out photo's on the perfect cast page) Mike and Ron Ridinger scored some awesome 5 pound Bronze Backs this week also. Paul Pear's group took their person best in 12 years of coming to the lodge by boating 12 Muskies in one day many missed and followers along with Willie and Joe made the day one of their all time best.
June 27th 1999
Three days on the River and two on the lakes for Opening Bass season - and the action is incredible. The "narrows" along with all the incoming rivers on the north shore are stacking up Small Mouth Bass, jigs and worm harness's along with git-zits are probably the most effective. Top water in the opposing bays from the Mt. River docks has been awesome in the early morning and evening hours. The record Walleye to beat so far is Frank Conte's 31 inch 9 LB 2 0z er while the pike category rests with Neil Volkes 16, 17 and 18 ponders caught consecutively in one evening fish (photo's back on the perfect cast page) Check out John Syler's awesome June Musky on that page too! Pat and Ernest White of Kentucky have a picture of a beauty - 4 lb7 oz Small Mouth that fell victim to a soft plastic jig. The air is heavy today with thunderstorms threatening, all boats went out anyhow and we'll see how they did. Water is still high on the river and we were forced to move our dock to the inside bay, a little closer to the office but it will be floated back to the point probably in a week or two as the water level drops. I should have the next report for the week by July 3rd - All lakes are open and everyone has gone from the Park to the River, into the military, Petawawa Forestry and Ted Shaw's group has even been doing well into the Quebec interior on Lac Tosh and Stevens. Every evening at the lodge has been filled with some interesting stories - but last nights tale by Mark Stellini about how a giant snapping turtle took his buddies 3 1/2 pound bass along with his favorite rapala, is quite entertaining. Be back in couple days, Tight Lines!
June 21st 1999
I have some catching up to do folks, its been a very busy couple days on the water - actually five guides were out with Korn/Yates/ Levy groups up again for 3 consecutive years, but this time they brought company and 5 guides and eleven guest traveled and fished some ultimate back water and open river fishing that was most enjoyable and rewarding! (see photo's on the "perfect cast page") Big news on the water flow, the Quebec western basin along with northern Ontario water shed has been flooded over the last month with heavy rains. The Ottawa River drainage has just reached our part of the river and has caused high water and flood conditions. The Rapid Des Jouchims dam in Rolphton has had the gates wide open for several days and will probably keep it that way for another week. the good news is that the heavy current has attracted walleyes and northern to the main flow and to all the points immediately down stream - great fishing.
June 15 th 1999
30 to 60 Smallmouth Bass days are starting on the river with first time guests as well as some veterans Fishing around these bronze backs to reach the Walleyes can be tricky. Up this week, Rich Wooster of New Jersey along with his buddies Joey and Mick are recording 20 yrs from the first visit in 1979 - they have the longest consecutive running stays at K/0 in our 26 year history. Sweltering temps in 95 Degree range finally broke with a light thunderstorm on Monday, and the incoming rivers are running high. We're expecting 10 to 15 min delays at the dam site and tail raceway so the Walleye's should be easily fooled by plastic and live rigs both so long as the current is on. I'll hold off reporting for a couple of days as we have a full 5 to 6 guides going out each of the next 3 days. we'll be putting in long days, but they will be most productive!
June 11th 1999
Back into the fishing mode - Muskellunge opened and where doing pretty well over on the Chalk system, Coke a Cola Bill's party with Ray, Stephen and Walter managed a couple of 10 an 14 pounders out of the Ottawa last week too. There highlights of the week were a couple of back lake adventures for Northern Pike with Guide Mike Carlin. The Cunningham group of guys did well on the river and the lake both, (upcoming pictures should be on K/O's "Perfect Cast" page by month end. Walleye's were hit the easiest along the North shore and the back coves of where current rolled over 3 to 6 ft of water.
June 5th 1999
The Start of high temperatures made early June mid day trips tough, but the bite was on in the early a.m .and evening hours. I took a few days off from guiding fishing tours to jump into the western Quebec interior for 6 days of bear hunting. It's some pretty country across the river and Dave and myself found several speckled trout lakes, walleye and pike lakes too. Action was quite impressive with a released 5.2 lB spec and a couple of hefty 13 and 16 lbs. pike. Smallmouth were there too, we hit numbers but nothing over 17 inches. The bear were quite plentiful as well as 13 guys took home 10 trophy bruins, sizes running 160 to 310 lbs. We met an impressive game warden with hands twice the size of mine and suspenders 3 inches wide (each). Jacques new his country well and made his presence known on a couple vicarious situations - Stories for the sportshows and over an open fire later. We even managed to change an entire rear end of a suburban 4X4 up in no where land 50 kms up!- feeling a little bit like Mcgiver as we devised and substituted enough to get back home before midnight. - Hey everyone has to be be somewhere, right.
opening May 24 1999
Ottawa River found most walleye's holding in 25 plus foot on the ledges and back eddies where strong current focused. The "Tail Race", saw most boat action in last week and Dave Fischer went out mostly in the late evenings using straight vertical jigging tactics to limit out. Mark Scott did equally as well on both the north shore and in non current areas for his walleye catches. The small mouth of the river are all pre spawn and are caught at varying depths of 2 to 25 feet. No pattern has developed but any location that offered quick access to current (river opening, rapids and points) out produced all others. Holden Lake gave us a few windy days with two foot swells that forced most boat activity into back bay areas and the activity was identical to the lower Ottawa. Surface temperature was 68 degrees at the launch (2 to 3 foot deep) and 59 degrees in the main system (plus 8 ft). Some new Photo's can be found on the "PERFECT CAST" page back at the K/O site. I'LL keep the interested informed, until next time!
T.C.
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