As the snow melts away, slowly exposing the earth, it is time for the annual spring cleanup, which is what I like to call, “rediscovering things that were swallowed-up by the snow.”
I never thought it would be so exciting to see the driveway again, even if it is a sloppy mess for now. The birds are enjoying a little extra sunlight each day and the sweet smell of spring is in the air.
Walleye anglers are starting to prospect the Seagull River on Saganaga Lake hoping to find that state record fish staging in the mouth of the narrows. This spot used to be notorious for producing some eater-sized walleyes as well as an occasional hawg but each year it seems to get a little slower. I think it might be about the tradition and camaraderie more than it is about the action these days. It is an easy spot to access since it is close by and the odds are pretty good that a walleye will see your bait, hard to ask for much more this time of year.
Cook County is rich in tradition whether it be seasonal chores, migrations, or even fishing spots. The vast history of people and events that have happened here are much of what makes it so special. I picked up a copy of the book from an old-timer named John Bouchard.
As you may have read in the Cook County News- Herald book review in March, John was the Canadian game warden posted on Saganaga Lake who befriended many people while patrolling the Canadian waters that border the Gunflint Trail. John is a long-time family friend of my wife and I was hoping to receive an autographed copy of the book but my impatience led me to purchasing a copy online.
Maybe John will gift us one while he does the book tour this summer…hint, hint.
The book is filled with John’s personal illustrations and short stories about Life on the Invisible Line and is a must-own book for anyone with an interest in Saganaga Lake history through the eyes of a Canadian game warden.
The chapter entitled My friend, the Judge was written about Rachelle’s grandfather Ron Hachey who spent his summers on Sitch Island, a few cabins away from John and Eve Bouchard. The judge and John built adjacent homes on Northern Light Lake as well. They were told that the onset of BWCA regulations would likely limit their cabin access on Saganaga Lake to “paddle only”—so they ran out and built new cabins on Northern Light Lake in case the rumors were true.
It is neat to learn about an area that you love, especially through someone else’s stories. A Canadian game warden certainly has an exciting perspective and anyone who knows John can appreciate his rich knowledge and respect of the area he served. In a time where everything changes with the blink of an eye it is cool to read stories and know that some things have been preserved.
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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