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Nice pics Dan. In regards to your partner playing hook and release, "Every Dog Has His Day". Isn't cool to have them ships come into the bay? I like to be out and have them pass within a few hundred yards of me. They are so majestic with all their linen out.

Very good point about the temp break, and asking for it on the radio, or seeing it on the graph. I have an older Fish Hawk, That I may not even put down, because I use the information on the graph and what I just heard on the radio. Other times when I'm clueless, it's the first thing in the water.

Jim, A couple of years ago I had the same problem. Using this and another fishing web site, I was able to pretty much keep my boat seats full, all Summer long. Being retired I fish about as much as most charter boats. Three things must be in place. #1 Make it Safe #2 Make it fun. #3 Get lots of fish. I have a phone # list on my PC that I update frequently. I have a couple of guys that will be on most of my trips. It's very expensive owning a trolling boat, and the related gear. It's appreciated when you have 3 or 4 others willing to pick up that days expenses. The captain should never have to reach in to his pocket, when you have a couple of others onboard. The exception is when you have kids or students along. They may do what they can to help. It's also nice, when you have at least one of the crew that will help out or is at least willing to learn. I will never leave port without at least, two adults onboard. You may get some that have their own agenda, and can be very disrupting. The disrupting individuals get scratched quickly from your list. They can mess up a trip, and not even realize they are doing it. I'm sure most of us here, have had people like this onboard. I'm sure even Charter Captains have had people onbaord, that made for a very long day. Some are just along for the ride, and you have to deal with it. These folks are better than the disrupting individuals, but you will get a work out. Some will not be capable of steering the boat or setting a line. You will have some that are extremely capable. These crew members can be given a few bits of information, and maybe have them set up a side. I posted this for two reasons. #1 To give potential crew members an idea, of what is expected of them, on Jim's or any non charter situation. Even if you are helping with expenses, make yourself useful, and be a valued crew member. You are fishing @ a fraction of what a charter would cost you. #2 To give captains trying to set up a crew an idea of what to expect. After a year you will have a list of phone numbers, and when you call they will reply, "when and where".

Tom, I was there for the Friday show. I just posted under another thread. I do think it's better on Saturday, even if there are more people.

Last Sunday the Sun was shining here most of the day.

I was there Today and shook some hands @ the Stinger booth. I also stopped at the Big Jon booth. I talked to John Williams and Craig. I talked to John on the phone before, but it's always nice to put a face with a name. I didn't see the Fish Dog gang there this year. I did meet and talk with Capt Jay from the Hudson MI area. I knew him from MS, but again, nice to put a face with a name. I think it's better to go on Saturday. Last year on Saturday the Steelheaders were grilling salmon.

Sean, You are so right. It all goes together. It's a lot of work, but it's a labor of love. The Whine of the rigger cables, the screaming reels, the radio BS, and the best two words run together, "FISHON".

I wish I could be there to join in the fun.

WTB a 6-1/2 ft. Victory Red Pick Up Cap for a 08 Chevy Sliverado. Reasonable. PM or Email me. frankjastr@hotmail.com

Matt, When I was your age my dad would tell me, "You can't burn the candle on both ends". I would reply, "Just watch me". Right now I'd be up for a midnight trip, but I'd sleep all day to do it again. Many moons ago I would fish all night work the next day, catch a lil nap ZZZZs and do it all again.

Small spoons, or silver and black, silver and blue minnow imitators. Those hungry browns are looking for a smelt dinner.

I figured that out after I posted. LOL Just never used all the buttons.

Dan, Not enough stroke to change a title. I know I have one coming. I'll be watching my back.

Yep, The Dog has it right. I never liked to target LT, but would do so in tournament situations.

This is an example of being TOO helpful. TOO helpful needs TWO Os. Some people can bug you. Being polite and helpful, has a way of coming back to you. You are a good ambassador for our area. PS I hope no one starts correcting my grammar and spelling. I was definitely being TOO Helpful.

Thanks Mike. Hey guys Mike just wants to see how bad he can whoop us. He has the deck stacked. LMAO

I'm not ready yet, but I will be. I usually have things farther along. If you need a hand just holler.

Well! March came in like lamb, so you all know the "Rest of the Story". Speaking about, "The Rest of the Story", The man that made this phrase famous, passed away this weekend. Paul Harvey was a radio icon. He always singed of with, "Good Day". So Good Day to you Mr. Harvey, RIP your work is done.

Sounds like a cool project. I hope you can find what you need to make it work.

Mike, You are lucky. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Cutting trees is dangerous, especially when they are broken up high, or hang up on the way down. You should never be out there alone. I hope you feel well enough to get out on someone's boat this Spring. Even if you don't feel like sticking a rod in your gut, you may be able to drive. I always have a seat open for you.

I needed that.

GJ Jason. Just like Real Estate, Location Location Location.

I like mine spooled with 10# because early in the year I pull minnow imitators. Heavier line also needs more weight to get it down, or more line out, when pulling harnesses. Also most of the charts are based on 10#. But you are right about it not being a big deal. Now Jig fishing is a whole different story.

I have fond memories of jig fishing the Tit. My son and I used to do well, if we could get on before the season closed. Then we would fish it strong beginning the last Sat in April for a couple of weeks. Here is a pic of our river fishing boat. My son still has the boat. The pic was taken early 90s at Wickes Park Saginaw.

I have been running 10# mono on all my walleye trolling reels. I usually run heavier crawler harnesses behind a weight.