Summertime, OH — I vaguely remember when July 4th marked the halfway point of summer vacation. Retirement from a teaching career blows that marker away now that my calendar only registers Saturdays. My fishing season had a later start than previous years when I avoided a late winter adventure with Rich Carter this time around.
Rich may be the best angler/worst Southern trip planner in the history of fishhooks. However, I have to plead guilty when it comes to already semi-looking forward to whatever fishing road trip Rich conjures up. Bassmaster magazine just released its annual “Top 100 Lakes” issue so I am sure that will create the itch in Rich for a January through February fishing trip.
Starting with my annual Kentucky Lake trip with Mary and stretching to our latest Erie run, enjoy the pics and captions of my 2025 fishing season so far.
IMG_6556
Before fishing season began Mary and I attended the Cool Running Bass Club banquet that also served as a get together for the North Coast Bass Anglers Association.
IMG_6640
One of my favorite ways to catch bass is using a jig and pig. This Kentucky Lake bass hammered this jig in mid-April
IMG_6693[28]
Stacy, Rudy, and the kids joined us at Kentucky Lake. They camped a few miles from Moors Resort.
IMG_6969
When I go solo to Lake Erie, I camp at East Harbor State Park. Here is a shot of my bedroom, kitchen, and dining room.
IMG_6906
Danny’s big smallmouth bass. My stolen hat.
IMG_6903
Our camper at Ken’s Marine
IMG_6721
I fished the Run ‘N Gun Bassmasters Burr Oak Big Bass Bash in late April, but these two guys won
IMG_6811
On my second trip to Lake St. Clair in May, my son-in-law Jeff Smith accompanied me for our annual trip. This is Jeff with a largemouth bass caught in the canal where our Tiny House lodging was located
IMG_6894
On my third trip in May to Lake St. Clair, Danny Johnson landed a huge largemouth bass in a channel near Ken’s Marine where we stayed.
IMG_6972
Sunsets get all the attention, but this sunrise over East Harbor is just as spectacular.
IMG_6987
If I win the lottery, this East Harbor house will be my new summer address. It’s a steal at $1.4 million. Time to buy some tickets!