It would seem a little silly to complain about the bugs when you have chosen to live in the great North Woods, but I have to say the black flies have been downright ornery this week. No amount of bug spray would keep them from latching on to any exposed skin while they hover an inch from your eyelids—not the most pleasant working conditions for anyone risking their sanity while spending time outdoors.
On the brighter side of things, the woods are alive with new life sprouting in all directions – even the three apple trees that we planted last spring are showing leaves. Water temperatures are finally reaching the lower 60s, and fishing is on the brink of being great. I had a tough day on the water last Saturday with only four walleyes and a handful of smallmouth bass. We tried to catch some lake trout in the morning, but they were not cooperating. We fished hard with little action, but tough day fishing is still better than a good day at the office.
School is out and the kids are full of energy this week as they fill their days exploring the property and wading in the water – which is still a bit cold for swimming. The lodge is a fun place for the kids, but it is hard to pay enough attention to them sometimes, which is why we have a few babysitters to help out in the evenings.
I feel they are now old enough to handle a short camping trip into the BWCA, and we are planning to get away before the summer takes a hold of us at the lodge.
Business is slowly picking up, but the window for us to get away is closing fast. I know that some parents take their kids camping at very young ages, but I did not want to get in a canoe with my two little restless children until they were old enough to contribute with paddles in hand – even if they are just going through the motions.
Cory Christianson has worked as a fishing guide on the Gunflint Trail since 2000. If you have any fishing or wildlife reports or stories to share, send an email to: christiansoncory@hotmail.com or call 218- 388-0315. You can also visit Cory’s website at Gunflintfishingguide.com.
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