Arlington, TX at 7:53 am CST: 54F Fair Lo:59F Hi:79F TWC Weather.
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
Monday, February 27, 2006
Marriage?
I never married because... I have three pets at home which answer the same purpose as a husband. I have a dog which growls every morning, a parrot which swears all afternoon, and a cat that comes home late at night.
~ Marie Corelli
Sunday, February 26, 2006
cabin fever?
Doodles was sunbathin today at my pops casa...it was a relaxing boring day. Took braums cheeseburgers over with those awesome CRINKLE fries...mmmm. Then we watched 'North Country' and 'Guess Who'. Good movies, then watched 'Grey's Anatomy'. I love that show. Somewhere in the middle of all that i looked at the ads and baked a cherry crumble pie. The weather today was amazing. Ronnie went out on his new boat today fishing, but we didnt get to go. 1. it was sunday, 2. Les is still puny. :( (get well soon!!!)
Yesterday I found the geneaolgy software I wanted for ages. Family Tree Maker Collectors Edition. Its kinda like a super upgraded version of the original software my mom and i had a gazillion years ago. I actually found my original backup of our family tree and was able to import in it. Its amazing to me that our tree has some lines traced all the way back to 1200's England. That is so long ago...i mean damn...thats like 800 yrs ago??? woah. Anyway i want to find out more about that line because they say that the peasants didnt keep records, so the inference i draw from that is that my ancestors were lords or something that did keep vital records. also I want to know how my peeps came to america. we came over in like the 1620's in Virginia. That was soooo long ago lol..anyway, we also watched 'The Weatherman' and 'Domino' last night. It was super duper rainy friday and sat so it was definitely a movie watchin day.
By the end of this weekend tho i've kinda gotten cabin fever... its weird to me not going and really doing anything all weekend. Friday nite we went and ate at posado's. Jess met up with us. She cracks me up :)[side note: this would later prove to be a REALLLLY BAD decision to embark on this friendship...]
Anyway, i gotta jet, its zzzzzz time. ;)
Lata!
Road Pirates :)
Yaaay i finally got my LMP print framed...I got lucky and found this frame it was just the right size...the print is 9x20.5 so that was a miracle in itself not having to get a custom frame. Anyway it looks cool but i cant figure out where i want to hang it!!!
Here's where LMP signed it. It says:"Road Pirate!
Much Love!
Lisa Marie"
awwww...
Saturday, February 25, 2006
Friday, February 24, 2006
Thursday, February 23, 2006
Something Beautiful by Tracy Bonham
light weight too straight no reaction
i don’t care if i’m not in fashion
i will follow you i will follow you
it’s hearts up heads down puddle of red wine
you get back up and you face the climb
i will follow you
something in me almost breaks
but i wait
i’m sinking in my skin
and i wait
my heart is wearing thin
‘cause i’m looking for
something beautiful
you cut me up and you make me bleed
a sad stained heart hanging on my sleeve
i’ll still follow you i will follow you
but you say “look up look up look all around you
can’t you see the love that surrounds the
very soul of you?”
something in me almost breaks
but i wait
i’m sinking in my skin
and i wait
my heart is wearing thin
‘cause i’m looking for
something beautiful
and i pray
for it to come right in
there’ll come a day
my heart is wearing thin
that i fall upon
something beautiful
something meaningful
you stick your soul out risk it all
your fearless beauty breaks your fall
something in me
knows there’s something more
and it’s so close i wanna run
but i wait
i’m sinking in my skin
yeah i wait
my heart is wearing thin
‘cause i’m looking for
something beautiful
and i pray for it
come right in
there’ll come a day
my heart is wearing thin
when i fall upon
something beautiful
something beautiful
something meaningful
i don’t care if i’m not in fashion
i will follow you i will follow you
it’s hearts up heads down puddle of red wine
you get back up and you face the climb
i will follow you
something in me almost breaks
but i wait
i’m sinking in my skin
and i wait
my heart is wearing thin
‘cause i’m looking for
something beautiful
you cut me up and you make me bleed
a sad stained heart hanging on my sleeve
i’ll still follow you i will follow you
but you say “look up look up look all around you
can’t you see the love that surrounds the
very soul of you?”
something in me almost breaks
but i wait
i’m sinking in my skin
and i wait
my heart is wearing thin
‘cause i’m looking for
something beautiful
and i pray
for it to come right in
there’ll come a day
my heart is wearing thin
that i fall upon
something beautiful
something meaningful
you stick your soul out risk it all
your fearless beauty breaks your fall
something in me
knows there’s something more
and it’s so close i wanna run
but i wait
i’m sinking in my skin
yeah i wait
my heart is wearing thin
‘cause i’m looking for
something beautiful
and i pray for it
come right in
there’ll come a day
my heart is wearing thin
when i fall upon
something beautiful
something beautiful
something meaningful
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
online DVD rental price per rental & turnaround time calculator
online DVD rental price per rental & turnaround time calculator
dude this is cool. all my peeps with netflix and blockbuster online...u should try it and see if its cheaper or not...
dude this is cool. all my peeps with netflix and blockbuster online...u should try it and see if its cheaper or not...
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Monday, February 20, 2006
Sunday, February 19, 2006
the bed with our new 'bedside tables' yay! damn they are a bitch to install. if any of u decide to get a malm bed, and you know ur eventually going to get the bedside table too...wait and get them all together. its too fucking hard to install them AFTER the bed is together. UGh!!! anyway they are awesome now. next purchase....a 4 or 6 drawer chest. WOOOWOOO :D
brrrr...
sometimes when it gets real cold out (like today) my mom puts on my sweater and scarf. it keeps me really cozy :)
cat patrol
"Cat patrol takes alot of practice and work. I get so tired sometimes but its all worth it..."
~ magpie
Saturday, February 18, 2006
Friday, February 17, 2006
Intellivision
Last night i had a dream about lisa.
It started out i was at work. While i was there, we had to go out in these boats. Well, the boats were like our desks and it was in this swampy land. So i was working all day and was about to leave and scheduling came over ( it was nelda f?) and said 'look at all your 'not ready' time. This is not acceptable.'i said 'i was doing qa, all the systems are down and i had to do live monitorings.' she felt stupid and left.
Anyway then i was on my way out and i went to this auditorium on the way home. I parked and went to the back entrance and steff and brat were sittin in the doorway watchin lisa sing. She was doing a show on some college campus. A few minutes lated she looked back at the doorway and saw me. Her face lit up and she smiled and she did the 'come here' finger gesture to me. So i went over to her on stage after the song was over, and she gave me a huge hug. She said 'are u ok? I've been so worried about you!' that made me almost cry. I told her about everythin that had been going on and how much i missed her. She said 'C'mon lets go back here.' she took my hand and motioned to the rest of the road pirates too.
We followed her to this cool arcade area. It had a zillion different video games all over the place. I saw michael and hugged him. Danny too. Then i asked lisa if the games were free play games. She said of course! i went looking around and came back to her and asked if she wabted to play... She said 'Yes!!' and grabbed my hand. She took me to this one game she loved. She said the name but i cant remember it. It started with a vowel, it might have been 'invasion' or 'apocalypse' anyway the game was on an old Intellivision system(???) lol. But the graphics were really good like they are today. So we starteed to play and thats all i remember...
Thursday, February 16, 2006
am-'bi-v&-l&n(t)s
ambivalenceOne entry found for ambivalence.
Main Entry: am·biv·a·lence
Pronunciation: am-'bi-v&-l&n(t)s
Function: noun
Etymology: International Scientific Vocabulary
1 : simultaneous and contradictory attitudes or feelings (as attraction and repulsion) toward an object, person, or action
2 a : continual fluctuation (as between one thing and its opposite)
b : uncertainty as to which approach to follow
- am·biv·a·lent /-l&nt/ adjective
- am·biv·a·lent·ly adverb
Wednesday, February 15, 2006
/send me you ~ the butchies
/send me you ~ the butchies
she says i’m crazy i said oh really
i’m gonna jump on you on the bed
make me a monkey make me fall over
make me a cradle and hold me instead
i’m not gonna say it ok i’ll say it
flying over stars and over to your room
caught in an ice storm
caught in your eyes
and i’m losing my mind
but i’m winning you
i’m i-t-c-h-i-n-g
send me you on saturday on thursday
i wanna get to you tonight
send me you on sunday on wednesday
i wanna get this you right
maybe i’ll come over
do you want me to come over
can I sing to you goodnight
i just want pleasure i just want heaven
i just want you tonight tonight
cuz this is going somewhere
feels like forever
can i bite your hands your neck alright
i’m i-t-c-h-i-n-g
send me you on saturday on thursday
i wanna get to you tonight
send me you on sunday on wednesday
i wanna get this you right
send me you on friday on monday
i wanna get to you tonight
send me you on saturday on tuesday
i wanna get this YOU right
she says i’m crazy i said oh really
i’m gonna jump on you on the bed
make me a monkey make me fall over
make me a cradle and hold me instead
i’m not gonna say it ok i’ll say it
flying over stars and over to your room
caught in an ice storm
caught in your eyes
and i’m losing my mind
but i’m winning you
i’m i-t-c-h-i-n-g
send me you on saturday on thursday
i wanna get to you tonight
send me you on sunday on wednesday
i wanna get this you right
maybe i’ll come over
do you want me to come over
can I sing to you goodnight
i just want pleasure i just want heaven
i just want you tonight tonight
cuz this is going somewhere
feels like forever
can i bite your hands your neck alright
i’m i-t-c-h-i-n-g
send me you on saturday on thursday
i wanna get to you tonight
send me you on sunday on wednesday
i wanna get this you right
send me you on friday on monday
i wanna get to you tonight
send me you on saturday on tuesday
i wanna get this YOU right
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
Monday, February 13, 2006
A vila mon coeur gardi li mo
Aww look at my ring my sweetie gave me for valentines :)
History: The original ring is inscribed, “A vila mon coeur gardi li mo,” in early French script. A contemporary expression would read “Ah voila mon coeur, garde-le moi,” which translates “Here is my heart, guard it well.” Genuine, Museum Authorized Reproduction hand-cast by the lost-wax method in the US.
Visit your Poesy Ring: The original of this 14th century French/English Posey ring can be found at the British Museum, London, in the Department of Medieval & Modern Europe.
Word of the Day ~ concupiscence
Dictionary.com/Word of the Day Archive/concupiscence
concupiscence \kon-KYOO-puh-suhn(t)s; kuhn-\, noun:Strong desire, especially sexual desire; lust.
The "Tretis" is an argument in favor of chastity and contrasts the "Wise Virgins" who devote themselves to God with the "Foolish Virgins" who taste "the fruits of forbidden concupiscence" and, of course, pay for it.-- Michael Gorra, "Loved for his Diphthongs," New York Times, November 27, 1983
Within three years Rorik's queen was dead, taking with her into silence her midnight cries of release from that captivity of concupiscence which Eve's curious sin has laid upon mankind.-- John Updike, Gertrude and Claudius
Concupiscence is from Late Latin concupiscentia, from the present participle of Latin concupiscere, "to desire eagerly," from com-, intensive prefix + cupere, "to desire." The adjective form is concupiscent. The name of the ancient Roman god of love, Cupid, comes from the same root.
concupiscence \kon-KYOO-puh-suhn(t)s; kuhn-\, noun:Strong desire, especially sexual desire; lust.
The "Tretis" is an argument in favor of chastity and contrasts the "Wise Virgins" who devote themselves to God with the "Foolish Virgins" who taste "the fruits of forbidden concupiscence" and, of course, pay for it.-- Michael Gorra, "Loved for his Diphthongs," New York Times, November 27, 1983
Within three years Rorik's queen was dead, taking with her into silence her midnight cries of release from that captivity of concupiscence which Eve's curious sin has laid upon mankind.-- John Updike, Gertrude and Claudius
Concupiscence is from Late Latin concupiscentia, from the present participle of Latin concupiscere, "to desire eagerly," from com-, intensive prefix + cupere, "to desire." The adjective form is concupiscent. The name of the ancient Roman god of love, Cupid, comes from the same root.
Sunday, February 12, 2006
Imagine Me & You
Imagine Me & You
Yay finally an awesome Lesbian film with a good ending and two hot chicks that dont look like butchie dykey women. I LOVED this film. THANK YOU for making it :) Go see it if you havent already!!
Yay finally an awesome Lesbian film with a good ending and two hot chicks that dont look like butchie dykey women. I LOVED this film. THANK YOU for making it :) Go see it if you havent already!!
Ghosts & Graveyard Tour ~ Alexandria
Things to do this april on VA trip.
Alexandria - Pizza joint - Ghosts & Graveyard Tour
Jamestown - http://www.historicjamestowne.org/
Fletchers Boathouse
Fishing on Abel Reservoir
Visit DC
Alexandria - Pizza joint - Ghosts & Graveyard Tour
Jamestown - http://www.historicjamestowne.org/
Fletchers Boathouse
Fishing on Abel Reservoir
Visit DC
The New World
The New World Movie Official Site
We went to see 'The New World' yesterday and I loved it. It was about Jamestown, Captain John Smith and the life of Pocahantas. It was a very quiet film, not much dialogue but it was ok that way because it was kind of a sensory film. It made you feel what it was like to be there in the wood, on the river, at the first settlement. I love pocahantas :) lol she was really cool. Check out the trailer on the link provided :)
We went to see 'The New World' yesterday and I loved it. It was about Jamestown, Captain John Smith and the life of Pocahantas. It was a very quiet film, not much dialogue but it was ok that way because it was kind of a sensory film. It made you feel what it was like to be there in the wood, on the river, at the first settlement. I love pocahantas :) lol she was really cool. Check out the trailer on the link provided :)
Saturday, February 11, 2006
Friday, February 10, 2006
catbird seat: Word of the Day
The Word of the Day for February 10 is:
catbird seat \KAT-berd-SEET\ noun
: a position of great prominence or advantage
Example sentence:
Nate and Brett want to buy a house but are waiting to see if the real estate market will change soon and put buyers back in the catbird seat.
Did you know?
"In the catbird seat" was among the numerous, folksy expressions with which the legendary baseball broadcaster Red Barber delighted listeners. Some say he invented the expression; others say that he dug it up from his Southern origins. But the facts may actually have an odd twist. In a 1942 short story titled "The Catbird Seat," James Thurber featured a character, Mrs. Barrows, who liked to use the phrase. Another character, Joey Hart, explained that Mrs. Barrows must have picked up the expression from Red Barber. To Red, according to Joey, "sitting in the catbird seat" meant "'sitting pretty,' like a batter with three balls and no strikes on him." But, according to Barber's daughter, it was only after Barber read Thurber's story that he started using "in the catbird seat" himself!
Irving Texas Convention Visitors Bureau - Official Travel Information
Irving Texas Convention Visitors Bureau - Official Travel Information
Dallas/Fort Worth Area Lakes
The Dallas/Fort Worth area boasts many of the state's top boating, fishing and camping lakes; a 175-mile radius of the area would show more than a half million acres of public access waters.
LAKE TEXOMA
This 89,000-acre lake lies about 80 miles north of Dallas. It ranks as the top Texas recreational lake because of facilities, amenities, beauty and fishing. Every type of boat is available for rent. The lake's deep, unobstructed waters are ideal for skiing, sailing or cruising; it can also get extremely rough in high winds. As the state's top recreational lake, it can also get very crowded on weekends or holidays.
FISHING NOTES: Most productive striped-bass lake in Texas, but fishing is also good for other species. Texoma is on the Texas-Oklahoma border. The lake spills over into both states. Since the states lack a reciprocal fishing-license agreement, a special Texoma fishing license is a good investment. Anglers with a Texas license can legally fish in Texas waters, but it's hard to know when you've crossed over into Oklahoma.
Directions: Take U.S. 75 north to Denison, turn west on FM 120 to Pottsboro or north on FM 84 to Eisenhower State Park.
LAKE WHITNEY
Whitney meanders along 23,560 acres of the Brazos River, and is located about 75 miles south of Dallas. With steep, rocky bluffs, Whitney is a scenic lake. It has good lakeside facilities, including a state park, several local or private parks and a number of full-service marinas. The lake is good for cruising, fishing or sailing.
FISHING NOTES: Excellent for striped bass and sandies; also known as the state's top smallmouth-bass lake.
Directions: Take I-35 south to Hillsboro, and Hwy. 22 west to the lake or, from the town of Whitney, take FM 933 north and FM 1713 west to the lake.
POSSUM KINGDOM LAKE
This 19,800-acre lake about 150 miles west of Dallas is located in scenic, rocky hills northwest of Mineral Wells. Its overall depth and narrow, windy configuration make Possum Kingdom an excellent lake for sailing and pleasure boating as well as fishing. It is one of the deepest lakes in Texas and reaches a maximum depth of 145 feet. The rock formation known as Hell's Gate is one of the most impressive natural features found in a Texas lake.
Directions: Take I-20 to Weatherford, FM 180 west to Mineral Wells, Hwy. 337 north to Graford and Hwy. 254 west to the lake.
LEWISVILLE LAKE
This Corps of Engineers lake, formerly known as Garza-Little Elm and Lake Dallas, is 20 minutes north of Dallas. At 29,592 acres, Lewisville is a very popular for speed boats, personal watercraft and cruisers; while there is some fishing, it truly is more of an urban boating lake.
FISHING NOTES: Good for sand bass, catfish, crappie and largemouth bass.
Directions: Take I-35 north. The interstate crosses Lewisville Lake between the cities of Lewisville and Lake Dallas.
CEDAR CREEK LAKE
This 34,300-acre lake is about an hour's drive southeast of Dallas is a good recreational lake.
FISHING NOTES: Excellent fishing lake for white bass and crappie, as well as largemouth bass.
Directions: From Dallas, take U.S. 175 south to Mabank, then Hwy. 198 south to Gun Barrel City and Hwy. 334 across the lake to Seven Points.
LAKE RAY HUBBARD
Ray Hubbard is a 22,745-acre impoundment about 15 miles east of downtown Dallas, and has a national reputation among sailors. Revamped marinas offer good boat rentals and lakeside services. There is no swimming allowed.
FISHING NOTES: Excellent for sand bass, striped bass and hybrid stripers; largemouth bass fishing is improving. Directions: Take I-30 east. The highway crosses Lake Ray Hubbard between Garland and Rockwall.
RAY ROBERTS LAKE
This 29,350-acre lake between Sanger and Pilot Point, about 70 miles north of Dallas, is one of the most fully developed parks in Texas, offering everything from paved trails to horseback trails.
FISHING NOTES: Excellent fishing for largemouth bass, sand bass and crappie.
Directions: Most direct route from Dallas is north on I-35 to Sanger, then east on FM 455 to the south of the lake.
COOPER LAKE
This 19,000-acre lake about 90 miles east of Dallas is gaining in popularity, as the newest and one of the most fully developed, state parks in Texas.
FISHING NOTES: Cooper is a good fishing lake for largemouth bass, crappie and catfish.
Directions: Take I-30 east to Sulphur Springs, then Hwy. 154 north to the lake. Cooper is also accessible from Commerce via Hwy. 24.
LAKE RICHLAND CHAMBERS
Richland Chambers is an excellent fishing lake with the size (44,752 acres) and proximity to Dallas (about 75 miles) to be one of the best all-around recreation lakes in Texas.
FISHING NOTES: Good for crappie, sand bass and catfish, as well as largemouth bass.
Directions: Take I-45 south to Corsicana and U.S. 287 east to the lake.
LAKE TAWAKONI
Lake Tawakoni is a 36,700-acre lake about 60 miles east of Dallas, and features ample lakeside facilities and marinas. Lake Tawakoni is well-suited to cruising or sailing.
FISHING NOTES: Excellent fishing lake for sand bass and striped bass; catfish and crappie are also popular.
Directions: Take U.S. 80 east to Wills Point, then FM 47 or FM 751 north to the lake. Or take U.S. 69 south from Greenville to Lone Oak and FM 1571 to Wind Point Park.
JOE POOL LAKE
Virtually in the shadow of downtown Dallas, Joe Pool Lake covers 7,740 acres between Cedar Hill and Grand Prairie. Directions: Take I-20 to Great Southwest Parkway and go south on Great Southwest Parkway.
LAKE LAVON
Lake Lavon, about 20 miles northeast of downtown Dallas, is a favorite of boaters who learn the waters. Though convenient to Dallas, the 21,400-acre Corps of Engineers lake is less crowded than other close-in favorites, probably because it's not located on a major highway. Notable: Lavon is a good fishing lake for crappie and sand bass.
Directions: From Dallas, take Hwy. 78 north to Lavon.
LAKE FORK
This 27,000-acre lake about 80 miles east of Dallas is one of the top largemouth bass fishing lakes in America. Submerged timber in the lake can be a hazard for recreational boaters who are not familiar with the lake.
FISHING NOTES: Bass fishing at Lake Fork has been estimated to be a $27.5 million per year business; it is one of the top largemouth bass fishing lakes in the US.
Directions: Take I-30 east to Greenville, Hwy. 69 south to Emory and Hwy. 515 east to the lake. Alternate route is to stay on I-30 to Sulphur Springs and take Hwy. 154 south to the lake.
LAKE BOB SANDLIN
This 9,460-acre lake about 150 miles east of Dallas is a scenic East Texas jewel. Sandlin has good lakeside facilities, including a state park. It is a good all-around recreational lake. FISHING NOTES: Lake Bob Sandlin has good fishing for bass, crappie and catfish
Directions: Take I-30 east to Mount Vernon, then FM 21 south to the lake.
GRAPEVINE LAKE
One of the more scenic urban lakes, the 7,280-acre Lake Grapevine lies about 15 miles from downtown Dallas, under the northern approach path to D/FW Airport.
FISHING NOTES: Grapevine offers surprisingly good fishing, particularly for largemouth bass.
Directions: Take Hwy. 114 to the city of Grapevine, then Hwy. 121 north to the lake.
LAKE O' THE PINES
Lake O' the Pines is 18,700 acres about 160 miles east of Dallas. Named for the pine forest that surrounds it, Pines is similar to neighboring Caddo Lake with more of a Texas feel as opposed to Caddo's swampy Louisiana style.
Directions: Lake O' the Pines is accessible either by I-30 from its north side to Mount Pleasant and Daingerfield or I-20 from the south side via Longview or Hallsville.
LAKE PALESTINE
Another scenic reservoir in a piney woods setting, Palestine backs up 25,560 acres on the Neches River drainage south of Tyler. This is an excellent lake for all-around recreation, including family boating and sailing.
FISHING NOTES: Fishing is fair for largemouth bass, crappie, catfish and hybrid striped bass.
Directions: Take I-20 east to Tyler, then Hwy. 155 south to Lake Palestine.
LAKE GRANBURY
This long, winding, riverine lake on the Brazos River southwest of Fort Worth makes a charming centerpiece for the city of Granbury. Fishing is good for striped bass, sand bass and catfish. Granbury is a popular recreational boating lake, but its narrow configuration means crowded conditions, so be careful. Notable: A suburban lake with excellent facilities all along the shoreline. Public parks and boat ramps are ample. Directions: Take Hwy. 377 for 33 miles southwest of Fort Worth. Hwy. 377 crosses Lake Granbury.
LAKE WRIGHT PATMAN
This scenic lake was named for a popular East Texas congressman, and covers 20,000 acres in Bowie and Cass Counties, about 175 miles east of Dallas.
FISHING NOTES: Best fishing is for crappie, sand bass and channel catfish.
Directions: Take I-30 east to State Hwy. 8 and turn south on Hwy. 8 to the lake.
LAKE ATHENS
Lake Athens, 1,500 acres about 80 miles southeast of Dallas, is a hot spot for skiing, sailing and cruising.
FISHING NOTES: Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center is located at Lake Athens and is worth a side trip to view native fish in a natural setting.
Directions: Take Hwy. 175 south to Athens, then Hwy. 2495 east to the lake.
FAIRFIELD LAKE
Fairfield Lake is a 2,353-acre power plant lake about 100 miles south of Dallas. The lake is surrounded by a good state park and wildlife is plentiful. Bald eagles winter at Fairfield Lake and the state park runs eagle tours during cold months. When eagles are present, you can glimpse them from hiking trails that follow the bank.
FISHING NOTES: Largemouth bass, redfish and hybrid stripers.
Directions: Take I-45 south to Fairfield, then Hwy. 2570 and 3285 east to Fairfield State Park.
EAGLE MOUNTAIN LAKE
Eagle Mountain Lake, 9,200 acres, lies about 35 miles west of Dallas near Azle, and is a Tarrant County Water District lake. FISHING NOTES: While not known as a fishing hot spot, Eagle Mountain is fair for white bass and spotted bass. Directions: Take I-30 to Fort Worth, then Hwy. 1220 or 199 to Eagle Mountain Lake.
BENBROOK LAKE
Benbrook Lake, a 3,770-acre Corps of Engineers lake just outside Fort Worth's Loop 820, is small but popular.
FISHING NOTES: Benbrook is one of the area's top lakes for hybrid striped bass; it is also good for sand bass and largemouth bass.
Directions: Take I-30 west to Fort Worth, then Hwy. 377 south. The Hwy. passes just west of the lake, south of the town of Benbrook.
LAKE BRIDGEPORT
Lake Bridgeport, 13,000 acres near the town of Bridgeport, about 100 miles northwest of Dallas, is on the West Fork on the Trinity River. Primary uses are water skiing, cruising and fishing.
FISHING NOTES: Fishing is good for crappie and sand bass, fair for largemouth bass and catfish.
Directions: Take Hwy. 114 north all the way to the lake.
LAKE ARLINGTON
This 2,275-acre power plant lake between I-20 and I-30 in Arlington has two day-use parks, both equipped with boat ramps.
FISHING NOTES: Fishing is good for crappie, hybrid stripers and largemouth bass.
Directions: Take I-30 west, then turn south on East Chase Parkway, which turns into Green Oaks. Head west on Arkansas Lane.
LAKE WORTH
Lake Worth, 3,560 acres just northwest of downtown Fort Worth, is best known as a recreational boating lake. Fort Worth Nature Center on the upper end of Lake Worth offers bank-fishing access as well as hiking trails and an interpretive center.
FISHING NOTES: The lake has plenty of small bass and fair fishing for crappie.
Directions: Fort Worth's Loop 820 crosses Lake Worth northwest of the city.
MOUNTAIN CREEK LAKE
About 10 miles southwest of downtown Dallas, Mountain Creek Lake is one of the least-utilized metropolitan lakes. FISHING NOTES: Mountain Creek is rated as one of the most productive fishing lakes in the metropolitan area.
Directions: Take Loop 12 south to Spur 303 and turn west. Spur 303 crosses the lake.
Source: Ray Sasser, The Dallas Morning News. Great Lakes 2001, 5/13/2001.
Dallas/Fort Worth Area Lakes
The Dallas/Fort Worth area boasts many of the state's top boating, fishing and camping lakes; a 175-mile radius of the area would show more than a half million acres of public access waters.
LAKE TEXOMA
This 89,000-acre lake lies about 80 miles north of Dallas. It ranks as the top Texas recreational lake because of facilities, amenities, beauty and fishing. Every type of boat is available for rent. The lake's deep, unobstructed waters are ideal for skiing, sailing or cruising; it can also get extremely rough in high winds. As the state's top recreational lake, it can also get very crowded on weekends or holidays.
FISHING NOTES: Most productive striped-bass lake in Texas, but fishing is also good for other species. Texoma is on the Texas-Oklahoma border. The lake spills over into both states. Since the states lack a reciprocal fishing-license agreement, a special Texoma fishing license is a good investment. Anglers with a Texas license can legally fish in Texas waters, but it's hard to know when you've crossed over into Oklahoma.
Directions: Take U.S. 75 north to Denison, turn west on FM 120 to Pottsboro or north on FM 84 to Eisenhower State Park.
LAKE WHITNEY
Whitney meanders along 23,560 acres of the Brazos River, and is located about 75 miles south of Dallas. With steep, rocky bluffs, Whitney is a scenic lake. It has good lakeside facilities, including a state park, several local or private parks and a number of full-service marinas. The lake is good for cruising, fishing or sailing.
FISHING NOTES: Excellent for striped bass and sandies; also known as the state's top smallmouth-bass lake.
Directions: Take I-35 south to Hillsboro, and Hwy. 22 west to the lake or, from the town of Whitney, take FM 933 north and FM 1713 west to the lake.
POSSUM KINGDOM LAKE
This 19,800-acre lake about 150 miles west of Dallas is located in scenic, rocky hills northwest of Mineral Wells. Its overall depth and narrow, windy configuration make Possum Kingdom an excellent lake for sailing and pleasure boating as well as fishing. It is one of the deepest lakes in Texas and reaches a maximum depth of 145 feet. The rock formation known as Hell's Gate is one of the most impressive natural features found in a Texas lake.
Directions: Take I-20 to Weatherford, FM 180 west to Mineral Wells, Hwy. 337 north to Graford and Hwy. 254 west to the lake.
LEWISVILLE LAKE
This Corps of Engineers lake, formerly known as Garza-Little Elm and Lake Dallas, is 20 minutes north of Dallas. At 29,592 acres, Lewisville is a very popular for speed boats, personal watercraft and cruisers; while there is some fishing, it truly is more of an urban boating lake.
FISHING NOTES: Good for sand bass, catfish, crappie and largemouth bass.
Directions: Take I-35 north. The interstate crosses Lewisville Lake between the cities of Lewisville and Lake Dallas.
CEDAR CREEK LAKE
This 34,300-acre lake is about an hour's drive southeast of Dallas is a good recreational lake.
FISHING NOTES: Excellent fishing lake for white bass and crappie, as well as largemouth bass.
Directions: From Dallas, take U.S. 175 south to Mabank, then Hwy. 198 south to Gun Barrel City and Hwy. 334 across the lake to Seven Points.
LAKE RAY HUBBARD
Ray Hubbard is a 22,745-acre impoundment about 15 miles east of downtown Dallas, and has a national reputation among sailors. Revamped marinas offer good boat rentals and lakeside services. There is no swimming allowed.
FISHING NOTES: Excellent for sand bass, striped bass and hybrid stripers; largemouth bass fishing is improving. Directions: Take I-30 east. The highway crosses Lake Ray Hubbard between Garland and Rockwall.
RAY ROBERTS LAKE
This 29,350-acre lake between Sanger and Pilot Point, about 70 miles north of Dallas, is one of the most fully developed parks in Texas, offering everything from paved trails to horseback trails.
FISHING NOTES: Excellent fishing for largemouth bass, sand bass and crappie.
Directions: Most direct route from Dallas is north on I-35 to Sanger, then east on FM 455 to the south of the lake.
COOPER LAKE
This 19,000-acre lake about 90 miles east of Dallas is gaining in popularity, as the newest and one of the most fully developed, state parks in Texas.
FISHING NOTES: Cooper is a good fishing lake for largemouth bass, crappie and catfish.
Directions: Take I-30 east to Sulphur Springs, then Hwy. 154 north to the lake. Cooper is also accessible from Commerce via Hwy. 24.
LAKE RICHLAND CHAMBERS
Richland Chambers is an excellent fishing lake with the size (44,752 acres) and proximity to Dallas (about 75 miles) to be one of the best all-around recreation lakes in Texas.
FISHING NOTES: Good for crappie, sand bass and catfish, as well as largemouth bass.
Directions: Take I-45 south to Corsicana and U.S. 287 east to the lake.
LAKE TAWAKONI
Lake Tawakoni is a 36,700-acre lake about 60 miles east of Dallas, and features ample lakeside facilities and marinas. Lake Tawakoni is well-suited to cruising or sailing.
FISHING NOTES: Excellent fishing lake for sand bass and striped bass; catfish and crappie are also popular.
Directions: Take U.S. 80 east to Wills Point, then FM 47 or FM 751 north to the lake. Or take U.S. 69 south from Greenville to Lone Oak and FM 1571 to Wind Point Park.
JOE POOL LAKE
Virtually in the shadow of downtown Dallas, Joe Pool Lake covers 7,740 acres between Cedar Hill and Grand Prairie. Directions: Take I-20 to Great Southwest Parkway and go south on Great Southwest Parkway.
LAKE LAVON
Lake Lavon, about 20 miles northeast of downtown Dallas, is a favorite of boaters who learn the waters. Though convenient to Dallas, the 21,400-acre Corps of Engineers lake is less crowded than other close-in favorites, probably because it's not located on a major highway. Notable: Lavon is a good fishing lake for crappie and sand bass.
Directions: From Dallas, take Hwy. 78 north to Lavon.
LAKE FORK
This 27,000-acre lake about 80 miles east of Dallas is one of the top largemouth bass fishing lakes in America. Submerged timber in the lake can be a hazard for recreational boaters who are not familiar with the lake.
FISHING NOTES: Bass fishing at Lake Fork has been estimated to be a $27.5 million per year business; it is one of the top largemouth bass fishing lakes in the US.
Directions: Take I-30 east to Greenville, Hwy. 69 south to Emory and Hwy. 515 east to the lake. Alternate route is to stay on I-30 to Sulphur Springs and take Hwy. 154 south to the lake.
LAKE BOB SANDLIN
This 9,460-acre lake about 150 miles east of Dallas is a scenic East Texas jewel. Sandlin has good lakeside facilities, including a state park. It is a good all-around recreational lake. FISHING NOTES: Lake Bob Sandlin has good fishing for bass, crappie and catfish
Directions: Take I-30 east to Mount Vernon, then FM 21 south to the lake.
GRAPEVINE LAKE
One of the more scenic urban lakes, the 7,280-acre Lake Grapevine lies about 15 miles from downtown Dallas, under the northern approach path to D/FW Airport.
FISHING NOTES: Grapevine offers surprisingly good fishing, particularly for largemouth bass.
Directions: Take Hwy. 114 to the city of Grapevine, then Hwy. 121 north to the lake.
LAKE O' THE PINES
Lake O' the Pines is 18,700 acres about 160 miles east of Dallas. Named for the pine forest that surrounds it, Pines is similar to neighboring Caddo Lake with more of a Texas feel as opposed to Caddo's swampy Louisiana style.
Directions: Lake O' the Pines is accessible either by I-30 from its north side to Mount Pleasant and Daingerfield or I-20 from the south side via Longview or Hallsville.
LAKE PALESTINE
Another scenic reservoir in a piney woods setting, Palestine backs up 25,560 acres on the Neches River drainage south of Tyler. This is an excellent lake for all-around recreation, including family boating and sailing.
FISHING NOTES: Fishing is fair for largemouth bass, crappie, catfish and hybrid striped bass.
Directions: Take I-20 east to Tyler, then Hwy. 155 south to Lake Palestine.
LAKE GRANBURY
This long, winding, riverine lake on the Brazos River southwest of Fort Worth makes a charming centerpiece for the city of Granbury. Fishing is good for striped bass, sand bass and catfish. Granbury is a popular recreational boating lake, but its narrow configuration means crowded conditions, so be careful. Notable: A suburban lake with excellent facilities all along the shoreline. Public parks and boat ramps are ample. Directions: Take Hwy. 377 for 33 miles southwest of Fort Worth. Hwy. 377 crosses Lake Granbury.
LAKE WRIGHT PATMAN
This scenic lake was named for a popular East Texas congressman, and covers 20,000 acres in Bowie and Cass Counties, about 175 miles east of Dallas.
FISHING NOTES: Best fishing is for crappie, sand bass and channel catfish.
Directions: Take I-30 east to State Hwy. 8 and turn south on Hwy. 8 to the lake.
LAKE ATHENS
Lake Athens, 1,500 acres about 80 miles southeast of Dallas, is a hot spot for skiing, sailing and cruising.
FISHING NOTES: Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center is located at Lake Athens and is worth a side trip to view native fish in a natural setting.
Directions: Take Hwy. 175 south to Athens, then Hwy. 2495 east to the lake.
FAIRFIELD LAKE
Fairfield Lake is a 2,353-acre power plant lake about 100 miles south of Dallas. The lake is surrounded by a good state park and wildlife is plentiful. Bald eagles winter at Fairfield Lake and the state park runs eagle tours during cold months. When eagles are present, you can glimpse them from hiking trails that follow the bank.
FISHING NOTES: Largemouth bass, redfish and hybrid stripers.
Directions: Take I-45 south to Fairfield, then Hwy. 2570 and 3285 east to Fairfield State Park.
EAGLE MOUNTAIN LAKE
Eagle Mountain Lake, 9,200 acres, lies about 35 miles west of Dallas near Azle, and is a Tarrant County Water District lake. FISHING NOTES: While not known as a fishing hot spot, Eagle Mountain is fair for white bass and spotted bass. Directions: Take I-30 to Fort Worth, then Hwy. 1220 or 199 to Eagle Mountain Lake.
BENBROOK LAKE
Benbrook Lake, a 3,770-acre Corps of Engineers lake just outside Fort Worth's Loop 820, is small but popular.
FISHING NOTES: Benbrook is one of the area's top lakes for hybrid striped bass; it is also good for sand bass and largemouth bass.
Directions: Take I-30 west to Fort Worth, then Hwy. 377 south. The Hwy. passes just west of the lake, south of the town of Benbrook.
LAKE BRIDGEPORT
Lake Bridgeport, 13,000 acres near the town of Bridgeport, about 100 miles northwest of Dallas, is on the West Fork on the Trinity River. Primary uses are water skiing, cruising and fishing.
FISHING NOTES: Fishing is good for crappie and sand bass, fair for largemouth bass and catfish.
Directions: Take Hwy. 114 north all the way to the lake.
LAKE ARLINGTON
This 2,275-acre power plant lake between I-20 and I-30 in Arlington has two day-use parks, both equipped with boat ramps.
FISHING NOTES: Fishing is good for crappie, hybrid stripers and largemouth bass.
Directions: Take I-30 west, then turn south on East Chase Parkway, which turns into Green Oaks. Head west on Arkansas Lane.
LAKE WORTH
Lake Worth, 3,560 acres just northwest of downtown Fort Worth, is best known as a recreational boating lake. Fort Worth Nature Center on the upper end of Lake Worth offers bank-fishing access as well as hiking trails and an interpretive center.
FISHING NOTES: The lake has plenty of small bass and fair fishing for crappie.
Directions: Fort Worth's Loop 820 crosses Lake Worth northwest of the city.
MOUNTAIN CREEK LAKE
About 10 miles southwest of downtown Dallas, Mountain Creek Lake is one of the least-utilized metropolitan lakes. FISHING NOTES: Mountain Creek is rated as one of the most productive fishing lakes in the metropolitan area.
Directions: Take Loop 12 south to Spur 303 and turn west. Spur 303 crosses the lake.
Source: Ray Sasser, The Dallas Morning News. Great Lakes 2001, 5/13/2001.
Thursday, February 9, 2006
Wednesday, February 8, 2006
Tuesday, February 7, 2006
Alpha Lou
Well today (Feb 7th) was my grandmothers funeral. It turned out very nice. The preacher really had a nice sermon. It was nice to see alot of family that I hadnt seen in ages but it was all a bit overwhelming. I think i might still be in shock because it doesnt really seem real. Sometimes i think im handling it well because I new it was coming, other times i think i just havent realized it yet. Anyway, I cant sleep so I figured i would post this link to the write up in the paper. (click below)... *sigh* I really will miss her sweet sweet spirit. She was such a great influence on me. I was thinking about it today, since she has become ill, thats kinda when things started changing in my attitude and outlook on life. You dont really think about things like this until later on i guess but its amazing what an influence she always had on me. I hope i can stay on the same path she started me on as a young kid. I will miss you greatly Alpha Lou, I love you.
~ k
~ k
Monday, February 6, 2006
Bass Fishing Tips | Tackle
Bass Fishing Tips Tackle
Crankbait Action ...by Reid Edwards
To give your crankbaits more natural action, try this. Instead of tying your line directly to the lure as usual, insert a small snap through the lure's line tie and attach your line to the snap. This will allow the bait to swim more erratically, and will also allow you to change quickly to another crankbait if needed
Double Trouble - Fishing Lures In Tandem ...by Tim Jacobs How do you trigger the predator instinct in a bass? One sure- fire way is to rig your lures in "tandem" when the situation allows it. Here are 4 conditions you can effectively fish tandem lures. 1) A "front runner" 8-12 inches in front of your top water popper or spook type bait can be deadly. 2) Using a 3-way swivel to drag 2 lure choices on a Carolina rig is very effective. One leader should be slightly shorter than the other to give the "chase" effect. 3) The same swivel technique can be used with "fluke" type baits or "sassy shad" type swim baits to catch schooling fish. BE CAREFUL! You may catch 2 fish at one time. 4) A traditional Carolina rig with a "jig" weight also offers two options. The first three examples mimic a predator fish chasing a baitfish, which triggers Mr. Bass to prove he is at the top of the food chain. Most single catches will be on the front lure
Trailer Hook Lock ...by Tim Jacobs
When using a trailer hook on your spinnerbait (and you should most always use one), it is important to put something behind your trailer hook to keep it from sliding off. Surgical tubing works but tends to keep the trailer hook "rigid". One of the simplest ideas I have ever come across is to take the plastic top of a coffee can and punch plugs out of it with a handheld hole punch like you would use for notebook paper. After attaching your trailer hook to the spinnerbait hook, carefully poke the spinnerbait hook through one of the plastic plugs, extending past the barb. It should go through relatively easy. Now your trailer hook is secure on your spinnerbait, yet allows the trailer hook to move freely behind the spinnerbait. This also works well when adding a plastic trailer
No More Smelly Baits ...by Scott Johnson
When buying tubes or worms in bulk packages the scent sometimes leaks out of the bag. What I do is seal them in smaller bags with a food vacuum sealer. It keeps the baits fresh and air tight.That way you can store them anywhere for as long as you want
Reaction Baits ...by Mark Lassagne
There are two different hooks to use for reaction baits at least in my book anyway. The first hook is a round bent treble hook and the second is a Kayle style (EWG). For surface baits and when the fish slap at the bait “like during the spawn” the round bend hook, hooks more fish. The reason for this is on the surface and during the spawn the fish are more or less slapping at the bait and not inhaling it and the round bend hook will snag them “for the lack of a better term”. Now when the fish inhale the bait the Kayle style is a much better choice and you will land a higher percentage of fish. The reason is on the Kayle style is the eye of the hook pulls directly to the point. I’ve found through trial and error that the Eagle Claw “Black Kayle” is the best for crank baits it’s sharp and won’t bens out on a big bass
Crankbait Action ...by Reid Edwards
To give your crankbaits more natural action, try this. Instead of tying your line directly to the lure as usual, insert a small snap through the lure's line tie and attach your line to the snap. This will allow the bait to swim more erratically, and will also allow you to change quickly to another crankbait if needed
Double Trouble - Fishing Lures In Tandem ...by Tim Jacobs How do you trigger the predator instinct in a bass? One sure- fire way is to rig your lures in "tandem" when the situation allows it. Here are 4 conditions you can effectively fish tandem lures. 1) A "front runner" 8-12 inches in front of your top water popper or spook type bait can be deadly. 2) Using a 3-way swivel to drag 2 lure choices on a Carolina rig is very effective. One leader should be slightly shorter than the other to give the "chase" effect. 3) The same swivel technique can be used with "fluke" type baits or "sassy shad" type swim baits to catch schooling fish. BE CAREFUL! You may catch 2 fish at one time. 4) A traditional Carolina rig with a "jig" weight also offers two options. The first three examples mimic a predator fish chasing a baitfish, which triggers Mr. Bass to prove he is at the top of the food chain. Most single catches will be on the front lure
Trailer Hook Lock ...by Tim Jacobs
When using a trailer hook on your spinnerbait (and you should most always use one), it is important to put something behind your trailer hook to keep it from sliding off. Surgical tubing works but tends to keep the trailer hook "rigid". One of the simplest ideas I have ever come across is to take the plastic top of a coffee can and punch plugs out of it with a handheld hole punch like you would use for notebook paper. After attaching your trailer hook to the spinnerbait hook, carefully poke the spinnerbait hook through one of the plastic plugs, extending past the barb. It should go through relatively easy. Now your trailer hook is secure on your spinnerbait, yet allows the trailer hook to move freely behind the spinnerbait. This also works well when adding a plastic trailer
No More Smelly Baits ...by Scott Johnson
When buying tubes or worms in bulk packages the scent sometimes leaks out of the bag. What I do is seal them in smaller bags with a food vacuum sealer. It keeps the baits fresh and air tight.That way you can store them anywhere for as long as you want
Reaction Baits ...by Mark Lassagne
There are two different hooks to use for reaction baits at least in my book anyway. The first hook is a round bent treble hook and the second is a Kayle style (EWG). For surface baits and when the fish slap at the bait “like during the spawn” the round bend hook, hooks more fish. The reason for this is on the surface and during the spawn the fish are more or less slapping at the bait and not inhaling it and the round bend hook will snag them “for the lack of a better term”. Now when the fish inhale the bait the Kayle style is a much better choice and you will land a higher percentage of fish. The reason is on the Kayle style is the eye of the hook pulls directly to the point. I’ve found through trial and error that the Eagle Claw “Black Kayle” is the best for crank baits it’s sharp and won’t bens out on a big bass
Abel Reservoir
VDGIF > Fishing > Lakes > Abel Reservoir
This 185-acre reservoir is long and riverine; it is almost too long for a single battery electric motor if you plan on traveling its length. There is residential development along the shoreline, although development is slow and sparse. Abel is a water supply for Stafford County.
Abel has some big largemouth bass, which can be difficult to catch. Abel doesn't have a lot of structure, but has steep-sided banks covered with rocky outcroppings and large hemlocks in many places, reminiscent of a Canadian lake. Much of the shoreline has recently been colonized by hydrilla, a submersed aquatic plant. There are good crappie and chain pickerel populations. Pickerel as large as three pounds are caught annually. Bluegills and an excellent channel catfish population round out the catchable menu.
Take Route 17 north from Fredericksburg, turn right onto Route 616, and right again on Route 651.
For more information, call the Stafford County Parks and Recreation Department, 540-752-5632.
This 185-acre reservoir is long and riverine; it is almost too long for a single battery electric motor if you plan on traveling its length. There is residential development along the shoreline, although development is slow and sparse. Abel is a water supply for Stafford County.
Abel has some big largemouth bass, which can be difficult to catch. Abel doesn't have a lot of structure, but has steep-sided banks covered with rocky outcroppings and large hemlocks in many places, reminiscent of a Canadian lake. Much of the shoreline has recently been colonized by hydrilla, a submersed aquatic plant. There are good crappie and chain pickerel populations. Pickerel as large as three pounds are caught annually. Bluegills and an excellent channel catfish population round out the catchable menu.
Take Route 17 north from Fredericksburg, turn right onto Route 616, and right again on Route 651.
For more information, call the Stafford County Parks and Recreation Department, 540-752-5632.
From Fletcher's to Fishing, It's All Right
From Fletcher's to Fishing, It's All Right
From Fletcher's to Fishing, It's All Right
By Angus PhillipsSunday, May 15, 2005; Page E02
It's time to give credit where credit is due. I never thought I'd be writing this, but GSI, the big government concessionaire that took over operations at Fletcher's Boathouse this spring, is doing a terrific job. My favorite outdoors place in the District -- maybe in the whole world -- is as inviting as ever. In some ways it's better than ever.
A new fleet of spiffy, lightweight mountain bikes is ready to rent on the C&O Canal towpath. The canal itself is full of water, rental canoes are available, and the famous Fletcher's red rowboats are freshly painted and waiting on the river. Thanks to good weather, fishing in the Potomac has been excellent, particularly for migrating shad and striped bass. One thing that hasn't changed is Fletcher's coffee, still as acrid as train smoke. It'll strip the chrome off your car bumper.
Anglers ply Fletcher's Cove on the Potomac River, where one regular said fishing for white shad "hasn't been this good in 30 years." (By Angus Phillips For The Washington Post)
"Everything has changed but everything's the same," said angler Mike Bailey when we met last week at the crack of dawn to chase swarms of spawning American and hickory shad on the river.
We weren't the first ones out. Joe Fletcher was already on the river catching herring. The patriarch of the family that ran the boathouse for over a century retired in January, along with brother Ray, but both stayed on part time at GSI's insistence. Not many bureaucracies have the sense to hang on to creaky traditions. GSI dragged the Fletchers in against their will, to everyone's benefit.
GSI also is accommodating longtime customers who know that fish -- and fishermen -- arise early. Opening hours at the boathouse are unpredictable, but if the weather is nice and the fishing is as good as it was last week, you're likely to find someone there at sunup.
As Bailey and I readied a boat by dawn's dim light, we were a step behind 90-year-old George Frenett of Kensington, retired guidance director of Arlington County schools, who was heading out to troll alone for rockfish. He caught 10, kept two keeepers 18 and 19 inches long, and was back home to tend to his ailing wife by 10 a.m.
(Asked the secret to longevity, Frenett said fishing pays. "Time spent here doesn't count," said the white-bearded angler, who has been coming to Fletcher's since the 1940s when he fished with Joe and Ray's late dad, Julius. "A day spent fishing doesn't detract from your longevity. It's free.") About half the anglers last week were chasing stripers (rockfish), which have been abundant in the river since striper season opened in the District on May 1. Wallace Lew, recently retired as a judge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, brought his son Jonathan; they caught a half-dozen rock on cut herring and kept four, the biggest a 26-incher.
The Lews also were done by 10 a.m., when Jonathan raced home to study for finals at the University of Maryland, where he'll graduate this month if he doesn't spend too much time fishing.
Bailey and I were there for shad, in particular American shad, which are enjoying a remarkable rebirth on the river as the result of a 10-year restocking program by the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin (ICPRB).
American shad, also called white shad, once were thick every spring in the Potomac and other tidal rivers in the Chesapeake region. They come back from the sea to spawn in April and May. But shad and their roe are prime table fare and overfishing, combined with declining water quality and construction of dams that blocked spawning runs up many rivers, sent the population plummeting.
Today, shad are protected by law. You can't keep any. Meantime, ICPRB biologist Jim Cummins oversees a program that has hatched and transplanted millions of American shad fry in the Potomac since 1995. His effort, combined with construction of a fish ladder at Brookmont Dam to open waters upstream to spawning, produced an explosion in white shad numbers on the Potomac.
Fishing for whites this year is "not the best it's ever been," said former Interior Department biologist Gordon Leisch, a regular shad angler at Fletcher's for many years, "but it's close. It hasn't been this good in 30 years."
White shad are bigger than their next-of-kin, hickory shad, which are bigger in turn than their little brothers the herring. All three of the silvery species are abundant on the river this year, but it was whites that Bailey and I were after.
We didn't wait long to catch one. The rising sun was still tucked behind the trees on the Maryland shore when we put our lines over. Within minutes I felt a tug as a three-pound white smacked the little, quarter-ounce shad dart I was twitching slowly across the current. Bailey expertly landed it, held it up long enough for a photo, then sent it back unharmed to do its reproductive duty.
In three hours, we caught and released a dozen and a half white shad and an equal number of hickories, plus a few herring and white perch on shad darts.
The experts reckon shad will remain abundant in the river for a week or two more, while smaller rockfish should stick around all summer. As the spring fishing bonanza eases, interest at Fletcher's will shift as it does every summer to canoeing and bicycling. GSI hopes to introduce rental sea kayaks this year, another good idea.
Three months ago, I and a lot of other fans of Fletcher's braced for the worst as monolithic GSI took over a fragile little institution that has brought joy to Washingtonians since the 1800s. Credit is due where credit is earned, and GSI, led by district manager Kirk Huserik, proved us wrong. Huserik even managed to get the old phone number (202-244-0461) reinstated, so we can find out ahead of time how the river's running.
Nothing is the same and everything is the same. We tip our hats to GSI.
From Fletcher's to Fishing, It's All Right
By Angus PhillipsSunday, May 15, 2005; Page E02
It's time to give credit where credit is due. I never thought I'd be writing this, but GSI, the big government concessionaire that took over operations at Fletcher's Boathouse this spring, is doing a terrific job. My favorite outdoors place in the District -- maybe in the whole world -- is as inviting as ever. In some ways it's better than ever.
A new fleet of spiffy, lightweight mountain bikes is ready to rent on the C&O Canal towpath. The canal itself is full of water, rental canoes are available, and the famous Fletcher's red rowboats are freshly painted and waiting on the river. Thanks to good weather, fishing in the Potomac has been excellent, particularly for migrating shad and striped bass. One thing that hasn't changed is Fletcher's coffee, still as acrid as train smoke. It'll strip the chrome off your car bumper.
Anglers ply Fletcher's Cove on the Potomac River, where one regular said fishing for white shad "hasn't been this good in 30 years." (By Angus Phillips For The Washington Post)
"Everything has changed but everything's the same," said angler Mike Bailey when we met last week at the crack of dawn to chase swarms of spawning American and hickory shad on the river.
We weren't the first ones out. Joe Fletcher was already on the river catching herring. The patriarch of the family that ran the boathouse for over a century retired in January, along with brother Ray, but both stayed on part time at GSI's insistence. Not many bureaucracies have the sense to hang on to creaky traditions. GSI dragged the Fletchers in against their will, to everyone's benefit.
GSI also is accommodating longtime customers who know that fish -- and fishermen -- arise early. Opening hours at the boathouse are unpredictable, but if the weather is nice and the fishing is as good as it was last week, you're likely to find someone there at sunup.
As Bailey and I readied a boat by dawn's dim light, we were a step behind 90-year-old George Frenett of Kensington, retired guidance director of Arlington County schools, who was heading out to troll alone for rockfish. He caught 10, kept two keeepers 18 and 19 inches long, and was back home to tend to his ailing wife by 10 a.m.
(Asked the secret to longevity, Frenett said fishing pays. "Time spent here doesn't count," said the white-bearded angler, who has been coming to Fletcher's since the 1940s when he fished with Joe and Ray's late dad, Julius. "A day spent fishing doesn't detract from your longevity. It's free.") About half the anglers last week were chasing stripers (rockfish), which have been abundant in the river since striper season opened in the District on May 1. Wallace Lew, recently retired as a judge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, brought his son Jonathan; they caught a half-dozen rock on cut herring and kept four, the biggest a 26-incher.
The Lews also were done by 10 a.m., when Jonathan raced home to study for finals at the University of Maryland, where he'll graduate this month if he doesn't spend too much time fishing.
Bailey and I were there for shad, in particular American shad, which are enjoying a remarkable rebirth on the river as the result of a 10-year restocking program by the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin (ICPRB).
American shad, also called white shad, once were thick every spring in the Potomac and other tidal rivers in the Chesapeake region. They come back from the sea to spawn in April and May. But shad and their roe are prime table fare and overfishing, combined with declining water quality and construction of dams that blocked spawning runs up many rivers, sent the population plummeting.
Today, shad are protected by law. You can't keep any. Meantime, ICPRB biologist Jim Cummins oversees a program that has hatched and transplanted millions of American shad fry in the Potomac since 1995. His effort, combined with construction of a fish ladder at Brookmont Dam to open waters upstream to spawning, produced an explosion in white shad numbers on the Potomac.
Fishing for whites this year is "not the best it's ever been," said former Interior Department biologist Gordon Leisch, a regular shad angler at Fletcher's for many years, "but it's close. It hasn't been this good in 30 years."
White shad are bigger than their next-of-kin, hickory shad, which are bigger in turn than their little brothers the herring. All three of the silvery species are abundant on the river this year, but it was whites that Bailey and I were after.
We didn't wait long to catch one. The rising sun was still tucked behind the trees on the Maryland shore when we put our lines over. Within minutes I felt a tug as a three-pound white smacked the little, quarter-ounce shad dart I was twitching slowly across the current. Bailey expertly landed it, held it up long enough for a photo, then sent it back unharmed to do its reproductive duty.
In three hours, we caught and released a dozen and a half white shad and an equal number of hickories, plus a few herring and white perch on shad darts.
The experts reckon shad will remain abundant in the river for a week or two more, while smaller rockfish should stick around all summer. As the spring fishing bonanza eases, interest at Fletcher's will shift as it does every summer to canoeing and bicycling. GSI hopes to introduce rental sea kayaks this year, another good idea.
Three months ago, I and a lot of other fans of Fletcher's braced for the worst as monolithic GSI took over a fragile little institution that has brought joy to Washingtonians since the 1800s. Credit is due where credit is earned, and GSI, led by district manager Kirk Huserik, proved us wrong. Huserik even managed to get the old phone number (202-244-0461) reinstated, so we can find out ahead of time how the river's running.
Nothing is the same and everything is the same. We tip our hats to GSI.
Sunday, February 5, 2006
peeping phil
I just had the weirdest dream. Les and i were up at my moms house in va. It was diff tho cuz it was by river. Like right next to it. Anyway, i went down the river some to where it was deeper and went fishin. Then i came back up by the house where the river was narrow and i looked down into it and it got really wide and deep. I saw all these bluegill and crappie swimmin around and i was gonna fish for them when suddenly i looked downstream and i saw all these huge fish. I assume they were bass. i went in to get les. So we fished. Then we were talkin with some friends and they were talkin about some new 'stuff'. We looked at each other and went home to try it. So it was a diff room than any at my moms cuz it had two windows on the wall on each side behind the bed. Do we're playin and i barely think i saw something out of the corner of my eye. I figure it was a bird or something. Then it moves again and les saw it. I said 'did u see that!!?' she was like 'yes!' so we got up and stuck our head out the window and it was some peeping tom asian guy hanging upside down from our roof. he had just moved in across the street. He had a camera. We were so mad we tried to knock him off the roof. Neat thing i know he was on the ground and carl was kickin his ass. I yelled down for him yo get the film. He did and magically we could see what was on it. It hd sneky pictures of people from all over the neighborhood. We called the cops.
Friday, February 3, 2006
Thursday, February 2, 2006
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