Long time coming..

I do believe my last blog was in bear season, which was a very discouraging and disappointing one. Second year in a row of low kill count. Although after talking with several other guides and services who mostly experienced the same, I still felt absolute frustration and continue to think "what could I have done".
In order for things to survive the tests of time, they need to adapt and Mother Nature does that best. Seemed all the large bears came in well after hunting time was over. I have heard it said a million times; they don't get big by being dumb. Still doesn't make me feel any better.....
After the third week of hunting, I was ready to throw in the towel; give up. After all, who wants to be asked "how was your season?', when your season...well, sucked to say the least. However I did have a little redemption on the fourth week that redeemed my faith. Our little buddy Trevor Stanley, who has been hunting and trapping with Big E and I since he was ten years old bagged a beautiful bear. He and I were sitting out that Monday afternoon when everything worked out right and a 313 pound bear came into the bait site the last hour of the hunt. Trevor listened and did everything right; I'm so very proud of him. To top it all off, he also got a super 8 point buck this year, his first!
While sitting out that night I also once again reinforced a few things that I have tried to tell my hunters; you must sit absolutely still and make not a sound. The lay of the land on this particular site is a steep slope directly behind the bait. The way the bait was set, the 55 gallon drum was to the left, with a large rock to the right with a couple large trees. Of course one must realize we are in the forest, so lots of trees, branches and leaves still at that time of year. Trevor saw the bear before me, as I had a branch in my line of vision. When he asked if he could shoot, I could not even see the bear. I leaned very slowly towards him and there she was; nothing but a head and ears could be defined as she stood rigidly still, staring on our direction from the slope behind the site. I told him "no, wait and don't move" in as low a whisper as I could so as not to bust us. The bear silently moved off behind the rock to the right and I told Trevor to shoulder his rifle and get ready. She appeared behind the bait once again, and just stood there.....watching...... This bear did that three times before emerging onto the bait site, where she once again stopped, and stared. I have said this before, and I will say it again; in all the years that I have guided, hunted and observed bear on bait sites, only once did the bear not look right at me in the stand. This has lead me to believe that a bears eyesight is a little better than what has been said over the years. Although they may not have the clearest vision, they can see movement; the number one enemy of a bear hunter. Also, I have come to the conclusion that all too many hunting shows, showing hunters talking and moving around in their stands has created an idea that what I have preached for years is not so important. I beg to differ and will defend my position over and over again. After all, I'm the guide, but I'm also a hunter and my success has come from my experience. I know my game so follow the rules. Next year, hunters may not like me so well, as I'm requesting that all ipods,blackberries or whatever will not be allowed on the baits, and should someone decide to go against the rule, they will not have the option of another bait site, or could be told to sit at camp, or leave. My success as a guide/guide service is quite dependent on the success of my hunters and judged much the same way. If you do it my way and it doesn't work, well at least I will feel it is the way it was meant to be. It's hunting. However, when someone goes against what I truly believe to be the defining factor my frustration goes into overload and I have to think that maybe there was nothing more that I could have done to change the end results. In that case someone chooses to just throw away their money. Listen to the guide!!!
I also feel that the bears are adapting to the game so to speak, which will only make the game a little harder to win. However, still, no matter what, bottom line......do it right.

I try to keep this blog about being a guide. It's about life in the woods here in Maine. I have branched out here and there to include other news in the outdoors world here in my neck of the woods, from the coyote issue to Roxanne Quimby's land grabs. Issues that every outdoor sports enthusiast encounters. However life in general goes on and life has it's ways of interrupting and disturbing the order of things. The slacking economy has had a great impact on how we do business. We are still making plans for the future on the new lot, but maybe not quite as extravagant as originally thought or dreamed. The lot has been cleared and prepared; the driveway is in as is the well, but that is where it has ended for this year. We hope to continue next Spring. Life has got in the way just a little with the need of a new truck and the upcoming arrival of our first grandchild ( daughter and babe will be living with us). We have dealt with a few dear loses, and a couple of new lives as we lost 2 of our pack, but gained 2 new ones that have brought smiles back on our faces. Of course our new grandson will bring on many smiles and good memories that are more precious than words can say! However all in all, we have had to regroup and one of those decisions I felt that had to be made is that we will not be attending the Eastern Sports and Outdoor Show in Harrisburg PA. this year. We will have to try to advertise in other ways to keep going. The show is a sportsman/womans dreamland and we have made many friends that I will miss;however it is one of the largest expenses next to insurance, leases and in this economy, gas. It is the only show that we have done for the last 5 years. Sometimes we did well, and other times not so well. Had it been a successful event for us every time, I would cut corners some other way. We do what we must and I have always been a stickler, that if you are going to do something, do it right, do your best and whatever is meant to be will be. With that said, I want all who read this to know, I appreciate you and if you like what you have read and followed along with since the beginning of this blog, would you please pass it along. Currently our web site is down, and I'm working on that, so apologize for the inconvenience. We can be found on facebook at Ktaadn Guide Service, Outfitter and Camps, with lots of pictures, information and updates. We have lots of openings for the upcoming seasons from camp rentals, kayaking, hiking, ATV trail riding,to fishing and hunting adventures. We have 3 cozy cabins, beautiful starlit skies, blazing sunsets and all the charm one expects of life here in the shadow of Katahdin.
Happy Holidays!!!!!

Anticipation and Frustration

We are currently half way through the third week of bear season and once again no one has got a bear yet. In fact, no one has even seen one yet! Fortunately, we have a wonderful group of guys and the mood is still light. However, it is not always that way, as those who read my last blog now understand.
Every year, as the end of July approaches, guides and hunters prepare for the upcoming baiting season for bear. In Maine, we have thirty days that we can bait before the hunting season begins. At this point, leases and insurances are paid, bait has been purchased, and trucks have been serviced. Now the work begins. The placement of the bait sites have been well thought out and scouted with several of them being established from previous years.
From a guides point of view: I'm always anxious for the arrival of our first guests. Optimism abounds. I'm well rested and ready for the long days to come. My days start at 6:00am and often do not end until midnight. This year a bear was shot Monday night, however we were unable after considerable effort to recover it. Bad shot placement and/or over excitement when the bear came in we could not really tell. It is very hard sometimes and a wounded animal is one of the things that haunt me the most. Mid week came and went, no bears. The baits are working; the bears are there...but time. We like many have bought into the mass publicity of gear and gadgets and purchased over a three year period five game cameras. I have come to the conclusion that game cameras are much like fish finders; they tell you what is there but it doesn't help you get them. If anything they cause great frustration knowing big bears are coming in but not always at optimal time for hunting. By Wednesday, my alias "Blackcloud" begins lurking in the dark recesses of my mind. Big E, Peter and I start pondering what more can we do. Our policy is two bait sites per hunter, so we move them to their second sites with the great hopes that it will bring success. Thursday......my stomach starts as anxiety sets. Thankfully Friday night two hunters were finally successful and two bears are on the game pole. Not the numbers I would have liked nor anticipated, but I feel better and my nerves settle down. "Blackcloud" is held at bay.
Second week begins with a new group and revived faith. By Wednesday, two out of three have seen bear, one being a sow with two cubs and one that the hunter said he passed up because it was a small bear. To make a long story short, and for those who did not read my last blog, check it out to understand how it ended. I'm now getting wore out and ended up at the doctors office Thursday morning; or should "Blackcloud" went to the doctors.....
Week three, now midweek and no one has seen a bear yet. Bait sites are being hit and hit well, cleaning out the barrels.....but where are the bears. Game camera showed a nice bear having come in last Saturday at 6:09pm; perfect time. Other cameras show the phantoms feeding in the night. Not feeling the greatest and with 'Blackcloud" in control my nerves are frazzled and my schedule is taking a tole on mind, body and soul. The hunters we have are really great guys and their spirits are still good which helps.....a little.
From experience of having run the guide service for ten years now; it is not hard to see the disappointment on the faces of our hunters. The anticipation of hoping tonight will be the night and the discouragement when they come in at evenings end with still nothing. From a hunters point of view, or from what I believe they feel, the hunt is creating some frustrations for them as well. From a guides point of view, it seems to "Blackcloud" disastrous. It is very true that our hunters success is our success. Another low bear count also does not help when going to the sportsmens' show and being asked the number one question;"How did you do last year?" A question I hate to answer but honesty is still the best policy in my book and I reply, "not as well as I would have liked." I come to the point of racking my thoughts of what is happening and what more can we do, and what do the hunters think and what will they go back and tell their coworkers and friends. Things like that can bring the demise of a guide service. Sleep evades me and exhaustion begins. My mind works with twists and whirlwinds of what,why and how?
So with anticipation and a good amount of frustration I write this with fingers crossed that tonight will be their night.....or at the very least one happy hunter.

Great Expectations

I have come to the conclusion that TV has given people some unreal expectations. I'm talking about the numerous outdoor/ hunting channels and shows that show success ninety nine percent of the time. There are a few that will also show disappointment, missed shots or unrecoverable game, but for the most part in their thirty minute programs they show a happy hunter full of excitement and joy, shaking hands and holding horns or whatever the game is. However they should also state that to make the thirty minute program, it took maybe thirty hours of taping and lots of editing!! I have been approached at the sportsman shows we exhibit at by a few video crews who would like to come and video a hunt, but up to this point I have turned them down; however not for the reason I have come to conclusion here. They have wanted to bring four to six people, hunters and crew, for up to two weeks to give us a five minute promo at zero cost to them. When you are a small business as we are currently it is simply just not an option.
This morning a party of hunters left, a day early mind you, with the excuse that they have a long drive home. Well they would still have a long drive home no matter what day they left on! It did not take them two days to get here and I don't see it taking two days to get back home either. They are not from areas of recent heavy rains, high waters or floods! They left feeling let down, discouraged, disappointed and I got the feeling a little miffed at us. Two of them saw bears; one saw nothing. The two passed up the bears that they saw and I was pleased that they did as one was a small bear and the other was a sow with two cubs. That's just good hunting ethics. The other made comments that he had in the past at other guide services passed up six hundred pound bears day after day. First off, anyone passing up a six hundred pound bear, even just one makes me truly wonder "why?" As we listened to the complaints each night at the table it was not hard to understand possibly "why' he did not see a bear. "I stood the whole last hour waiting", "I thought a bear was coming in behind me and I kept looking", "I had to put my bug net on at dusk". All of that is the number one "Don't" of bear hunting from a stand: movement. It seems no matter how hard you try to explain the game, they have their own game plan. I often wonder why they bother to come to a guide service if they know more about the game than we do? It is so very true that our hunters success is our success because it is what people will judge you by. This is the hardest part of my job and one of the most frustrating! I blame much of this on TV programs that video the hunter talking to the camera in the tree, moving around, looking around and still bagging the bear or whatever. I was a hunter before I became a guide. As a guide I have sat in numerous treestands over the years; sat out with youth hunters and inexperienced hunters that did not feel comfortable to sit on a stand alone and I have observed bears, shot bears and had successful hunters get their bears. From all of that I have learned  and have tried to teach those lessons so that others may be successful too. Bears are much smarter than many think and all too many think you put out some sweets and a bear comes a running. Not so! Bears are phantoms of the woods. They walk silently and seem to appear out of nowhere. They are extremely cautious when approaching a bait site, many times hesitating just in the background. Of all the bears I have observed, only once did a bear not come in and look directly at the stand and "me". They have awesome hearing and a very sensitive nose. They know when something is amiss and if you are doing things wrong, the likelihood of seeing a bear is slim to not at all. Some may still see a bear, but it is going to be an inexperienced young bear and not the trophy animal one is targeting.
I felt bad when the hunters left this morning; reminding them that the biggest bear ever taken here was the last minute of the last night. However it mattered not what I said as their minds were made up. I know they are not going to be return guests and for one reason or another think that we did not do enough. They will not consider our own frustration of the fact that we have worked for a month before season, paid out big money for leases, insurances, bait, gas and wages along with a long list of other things that it takes to run a guide service. To them, we failed to produce.
We enjoy watching the hunting channel and shows, knowing a little more of what goes on behind the scenes. However, I would like to see at the end of the shows a statement of how many hours of taping went into the effort before the final cuts along with something like "not all hunts are successful". Of course, the trouble is, unsuccessful hunts just don't make the cut leaving viewers with great expectations that hard working guides and outfitters hate, and that is unhappy hunters.

I stand by ethics.

Unfortunately we have had an incident this evening during the first night of bear hunting here at the guide service. It is not completely unique to just tonight, or to just this bear season, however I was put on the spot of "did I do my job?" Well that got me to thinking.
Many years ago ( many, many years...) when the Inland Fisheries and Wildlife board congratulated me after passing my oral exam, they said to me, "Kimberley, teach them something, if they go home with nothing else....teach them. And never stop learning!" This was a day I am very proud of. First off, there are not many, and back then even less, lady guides; with even less being hunting guides. Secondly, I worked very hard, and have continued over the years to learn more, be better at what I do; I truly have never stopped learning. When it comes to bear hunting,or just bear in general; I have made a point to learn the ways of the animal. I'm a hunter first, a guide second. I believe one can not be good at just one.
Also, most know and have heard of "Big E" if you have followed any of my writings. He is my husband and has been a wonderful teacher. He learned from his Father, and brothers at a very young age and is an accomplished hunter and trapper. He and I run the guide service together with the help of a true friend who is an accomplished hunter and trapper himself and my Mom in the kitchen. Therefore it is a joint effort in a labor of love and I could not do it without them; honestly wouldn't want to!
Anyway.....tonight we had the misfortune of not being able to recover an animal. This is a situation that I hate as it puts one in an uncomfortable place.....what do I/we say? Do we say anything? Did I somehow fail?
Many years ago (again) Big E and i worked for another guide and guide service before we decided to go on our own. Every Sunday night we were all required to attend "the meeting". It was the "talk". The do's and don't and don't you dare's of hunting camp and bear hunting. Big E and I over the years have contemplated the idea that for several reasons, we too should give "the talk". I was reminded of that tonight.

I thought about it for a while waiting for everyone to get back into camp. I thought about a lot of things......So when everyone got back in, and came in for the evening buffet, I asked for a moment that everyone just listen. I had thought out what I would say and how I would say it as I didn't want to put the person in the spotlight. I figured he probably felt bad enough. I know I would! I also know what it is like to have to wait until the next morning to go and look for an animal. It is grueling! You second guess yourself. You doubt yourself. You feel sick to your stomach and you watch the minutes click by until morning.....My animal was there. I had taken an excellent shot. I had done everything right......but I thought tonight......I thought.......what if? I believe that every hunter at some point, even the pro's have been in that situation. For me though, the thought of a wounded animal that I/we can't find is still terribly hard. That"s just the way I think. Therefore I decided it was time to have "the talk". I was careful; I was kind and then I was informational. Where to place the shot;behind the shoulder and in the middle. You see black bears have very thick and long hair, so three or more inches of blackness under his belly is nothing but thin air. Bring that shot up. I explained how bears often move and lurk in behind the baits looking for motion. I told them out of all the bear I have observed over the years, only one, one time did not look straight at the treestand and at me, yet I moved not an inch nor a muscle. I shared my knowledge; I'm a Master Maine Guide.
However it seems, that possibly it was not accepted in the light that it was given. Do I think that maybe I should have said nothing??? No, I had to. Not only is it my job, but it is a matter of ethics.

What do you think?

Do we need a North Maine Woods National Park?

First I apologize for this posting being a bit belated. It is extremely busy this time of year for us with Bear season rapidly approaching and also, I wanted to see how the meetings were reported in the local papers as well to be able to give a complete perspective on this subject.
A little background information. In 2000-2001 I was a correspondent for a couple local papers and covered most of the subjects dealing with the outdoors and such activities in the region. At this time, many will remember the organization RESTORE: The North Maine Woods, which was attempting to bring about the creation of a National Park which encompassed the North Maine Woods, Telos region, Baxter State Park, and the Golden road beginning at the area we locals call the "dike", which is where Ambajesus and Millinocket Lakes converge. The total acreage was to be 3.1 million acres, with Baxter Park encased within it's borders. Also at this time, I would like to note that both paper mills were still operating so the economy was still good in the region. The group RESTORE was a Boston based activist organization of which Roxanne Quimby was a board member. This group was literally drove back to Boston with opposition from the region and things quieted down with people figuring the threat had been defeated. Quimby resigned from the board, stating at the time that their agenda was not the same as her own. Shortly afterward she began purchasing large parcels of land, blocking roads,taking out bridges, cutting off access, terminating camp leases, and encroaching on peoples lives and livelihood.This also included a major part of the Maine Snowmobile Associations ITS trail system linking Millinocket and East Millinockets trails to Bowlin Camps (which is a whole story in itself) and the Sherman/Patten region. This did not abode well with the locals and towns in the region which set the stage for many protests and even threats to Quimby. She retaliated in a manor that only made her image even worse and many folks went around with stickers on their vehicles stating "Ban Roxanne". Quimby stated at the first meeting that I attended in Millinocket in May that these attacks as she called them angered her deeply and she could not understand why she became the hated tyrant. However her retaliation certainly did not help her cause nor her image.
Since that time, Millinockets paper mill closed its doors and recently so did the mill in East Millinocket. Quimby, who had attempted to go over our heads had approached our Senators in Washington D.C. for support of her proposal to place the 70,000 acres she had accumulated on the eastern border of Baxter State Park and the eastern shore line of the East Branch of the Penobscot River to the National Park Service, to create a National Park.Our Senators for once did the right thing informing her that the only way they would ever consider supporting her efforts was if the local towns that would be affected supported it as well. Hence the meetings began. She also thought that since the mill closures, the towns and their people would welcome her with open arms like some kind of savior. Not so. Never to be underestimated the people of this region are strong, resilient and very set in their ways, and in fact a little hostile to anyone coming from away.
The most recent meetings have been to try to rally support for a feasibility study on the proposal of her lands to be turned over to the National Park Service and the creation of a Park. The study is meant to show all the pro's and con's of the proposal which Quimby feels will bring new life and employment to an area in desperate need of an economic boost.
This brings me to the last and most recent meeting I attended at the Medway Middle School, which was set for the purpose for the Town of Medway to bring to a vote approval or disapproval of the feasibility study with the school board (of which I have no idea why they are involved ) and the towns selectmen having already stating their support. At this time Millinocket has sent them packing with a no vote. East Millinocket has not yet joined the movement with their selectmen stating they will not give approval or speak for the towns people without the peoples support. Medway did pass approval for the feasibility study, the only ones thus far.
Now, this brings to question, do we need a National Park? In light of the current financial despair of our Nation and the fact that the National Park Service does not have enough funding to truly take care of the National Parks already in existence, how does one ethically propose the creation of yet another National Park? It would take millions to create a road system, campgrounds, and Ranger stations and whatever it is that would be needed to appropriately maintain and run a National Park. That fact alone in my opinion should be a resounding "no"! But still, do we really need another park??? I don't believe we do.
We have Baxter State Park with the majestic Mount Katahdin reaching towards the heavens smack dab in the middle. It is estimated on average that 70,000 visitors come from all over the world to visit the park. It is, depending on which way one wants to look at the, either the beginning or the end of the famed Appalachian Trail. Quimby, stated from reports from the National Park Service, that National Parks have up to three times more visitors on average yearly. However, you are talking about National Parks like Yellowstone, Glacier, the Grand Canyon, ect. This land that she proposes, although beautiful in it's own right, would only be playing off Katahdin which is already within the borders of the State Park. Oh but State Parks do not draw enough visitors; are not well known enough so Quimby says. My opinion? We could fix that, right? Why Not?
There used to be an organization called MAGIC, which was supposed to promote and attract businesses and economic growth to the region. They failed. Why? I don't know all; the details. However, would it not be in the greatest interest for another organization or committee to be created to do the job and this time, do it right? All we really need is to open some doors and a lot of eyes. Too many years have gone by with the dependency of the local paper mills to take care of us. Too many are opposed to opening the area to year round tourism wanting to keep the area, "our little secret". Times have changed and if one does not want the National Park becoming a reality even someday, they need to change as well.
Now, 70,000 visitors to Baxter Park alone is a wonderful thing, but why does the area continue to waste away? That answer is plainly visible just driving down main street in Millinocket. What does one see? Insurance agencies, a little cafe and empty storefronts with the only life at the end with the Pellitiers restaurant and the Schoodic Inn. On Central Street, the Penobscot Plaza which once housed a big department store and movie theater among other stores still sets empty with the IGA supermarket on one end and a Dollar Store on the other. What do tourists want?? Places to shop, things to see and do! We need to breath life into our communities before we can ever really thrive. We need to market our Park. Our region is so very rich in many ways with the lakes, ponds and rivers. It is an outdoors enthusiasts extravaganza provided by good ol Mother Nature and we need to open our eyes, hearts and minds to that fact. We don't need a National Park, or Roxanne Quimby to save us, we can save ourselves with some good old fashioned ingenuity.

Moving right along..

Wow it seems like I have hardly had a moment for myself lately. Therefore, I will take advantage of this moment! Since the visit of our good friend Outback Bob we have been extremely busy with preparations and plans. We have finally met with an architect to begin designing the new lodge. Big E and I are somewhat in agreement of our visions and expressed them to the architect. His initial sketch was not exactly what I had in mind, but he is going to work out a couple designs, and we can go from there; it will be a better start than Big E and I arguing. However before we even need to worry about that, there is a lot of ground work to be done. The lot had to be logged, and currently an excavator and bulldozer are destumping, smoothing and setting in the driveway. Next will be a well which we have already contacted a well driller and met with him also at the site. Sometimes, I just have to take a step back though, as it is all so overwhelming to me at times. In the meantime, we still have this years upcoming bear season rapidly approaching with many preparations going on with that. We have two new lots for bear sites this year and we have to go tomorrow and GPS the sites; looking everything over to see what will need to be done for treestands, bait placement and cleaning trails.
Of course while all this is going on, so is life at the Lyons residence which has had some serious ups and downs. "Isn't life just grande??" Well, I do believe it is for the most part and another saying,"whatever don't kill ya, will only make ya stronger!"
We also have taken a little time to try to enjoy ourselves as well. We have gone on a couple 4 wheeler rides and fly fishing at our little piece of Heaven; Nesowadnehunk lake.I also had the absolute pleasure of taking a couple out kayaking on the Penobscot River along with a few other ventures onto the waters. We have been seeing several baby turkeys running through the tall grass in the fields, however not many partridge. We have also seen a few moose, deer, bear and fox along out travels which is always a special treat.
I have personally enjoyed a fire in our fire ring with silhouettes of moose and trees dancing about with a cozy glow along with gorgeous sunsets coloring the mountain and the sky, to moonlight casting it daylight light glow. Just take a moment with me; imagine and enjoy the wonders of the Lord and Lady!

It is hard to believe that June is almost over and the 4th of July is just around the corner. Time really does fly when you have so many things to do and having some fun on top of it all.
We finally got to take our good friend Bob Sauer-Jones, AKA Outback Bob, from the Adirondacks to Nesowadnehunk Lake fly fishing for native brook trout. It was a beautiful evening and the hatch was on the water with trout feeding very well. So well, that they were not taking the flies we presented like I had hoped they would. June is generally an awesome time for a lot of action on the water. However we have had a strange Spring thus far and well into the beginning of summer with heavy rains and cool temperatures. I still had a wood fire going just a week ago in the house to take off the chill! All in all, though, it was an enchanting evening and Bob had quite a few hits and caught one too!! Which made me feel much better as I missed several hits due to inattentiveness. I was enjoying the scenery, or would hear a rise, turn to look where it was, missing a hit in the process. Oh well, I can't say that I really care on that one as I was just happy to be floating around in my kayak taking pictures and enjoying our company.
Progress on the lot is very slow which is good and not so good. We need the area where the lodge is planned to be cleared so that we can get a better idea exactly where it will set to begin putting in a road to it. The good part is that by being a bit slow, we are really able to control the cut as we don't want is completely cleared. It is both exciting and overwhelming all at once. I like the idea of getting things moving in that direction, but there is always so much to do right here. We have to get the third cabin finished so it will be ready and taking inventory on the bait situation. We picked up a new lease this year that we have wanted for some time. It is much closer than a lot that we leased last year over to Webster Plantation which proved to be too far out. We would take hunters out and had to sit in the trucks until hunting time was closed, pick up hunters and bears and head back to home base often not arriving back until 9:30pm. That really made for some seriously long days. The new lot is in Medway, and happens to be lands that we are familiar with as it is in Big Es old stomping grounds. Therefore we need to take a few days to GPS the bait sites and look things over more closely for placement of stands.
Over all, there is much to do, but we want to get some fun in in-between, after all as they say, all work and no play makes........ well you know!

I have also finally put down to paper the first chapter of the story that has been rattling around in my head. I have a few, but one in particular seems to keep coming to the front. All to often, it hits me when I trying to go to sleep. My muse has a sense of humor that keeps me up all night. I always say, 'Oh that's good, I'll remember that", but it never sounds as good in the morning, therefore I have give in, and just got up and let in flow onto paper. The Outdoors publication that I was writing for has fallen on hard times and got wrapped up in a divorce and bankruptcy court. So I have had some time on my hands to put my writing in other directions, which is now proving to be a good thing.However, I'm not going to say too much about the story as hopefully, the suspense will make folks want to read the book when it is finally done!!!!

Looking ahead....

As with many businesses, one must always be looking forward. Doing so often comes with apprehension and even fear. Will it succeed, and at what expense. One never knows what the future holds or what the roll of the dice may produce. Here in the Katahdin region there is much despair among the people. The largest local employer, being the paper mills have ceased operations and laid off it's workers. The Millinocket mill was closed due to operating expenses beyond its profit in 2008, and in April of this year, the current owner shut down operations in the East Millincoket mill, laying off over 400 men/women. Over the years so many businesses have closed their doors leaving empty buildings and storefronts, and of course eliminating even more jobs. As they say, the trickle down effect can be devastating. The towns that paper made; the towns that made paper. It is our heritage and our history. Too many wish for another industrial father so to speak to come, reopen the mills and save the towns. I however do not believe that will happen and I feel very sorry for those who continue to mourn that loss. However as with all losses in life, one must go on....Be strong!!!

There is life after loss and I truly believe this region will once again thrive, but in a new way. We need to take in our surroundings and realize Mother Nature gave us all the greatest gift and that gift will bring a thriving community back to life!! Here in the Katahdin region we have beauty and it abounds all around us. Baxter State Park is the center of this jewel with the majestic Mount Katahdin always visible on the horizon. We have lakes, ponds, rivers and streams. There are gorgeous vistas that create a feeling within that is hard to explain. A few years ago now, I set out to climb the mighty Katahdin. I chose the Chimney Pond trail and when I reached a point on the trail known as Blueberry Hill I stopped for a moment. When I turned around to look out over my path, I experienced a feeling of total awe. As I said, it is hard to explain, but it is a feeling that I wish everyone to experience. That moment when you realize how lucky you are to be alive and the privilege of being able to gaze out over the land is breath taking. I have always heard the saying that life is not the breath you take, but the moments that take your breath away and that was truly one of those moments, and yet I was only just beginning. We are so blessed to live in a place that can take your breath away around every corner, and with each experience may it be that early morning misty ride in a kayak on the serene Penobscot River, or white water rafting down the rapids of the West Branch. It can be watching a baby deer, still in it's spotted pajamas bouncing happily behind Momma, or laughing at the comical gate of a moose trotting down the Golden Road. It may be catching a native brookie on a fly rod or jigging a massive togue. Maybe it will be sitting in a treestand and seeing the phantom of the woods suddenly appear in total silence. Or maybe it is just watching the sunset blaze its pallet of colors beyond Katahdin to then leave a starry sky that may dance with the ghostly images of the northern lights. This is my Katahdin and it is only a very small piece of what one can experience for themselves. This is the gift we have been given and it is the life breath of what will be when it is all said and done.

We are venturing into a new era for ourselves here at Ktaadn Guide Service, Outfitter and Camps. We are in the process of taking the next step to bigger and better and brighter things to come. We are in the very early process of designing our new lodge on the new lot that I have mentioned before and taken so many pictures of the mountain range from. It is overwhelming and even sometimes scary as is many steps one takes in their lives. A leap of faith!!! I will have my new kitchen and dining area! We will have a big room for our guests to sit in front of a fireplace, look at the bears, moose, deer and other critters, but best of all, to look out and watch the sunsets of Katahdin. The new lot is located directly on an ATV trail that we will also link to the ITS snowmobile trail systems to be a full service all season destination. Whether one wants to come for hunting, fishing, trapping, kayaking, canoeing, ATV riding, mountain biking, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, hiking, mountain climbing or just simply enjoying the peace and quiet, we will be here at the end of each day to enjoy a delicious meal and just simply relax in our little piece of Heaven among friends. It is an exciting adventure this thing called life!

One thing after another..

Like with many businesses, there is maintenance to be done each Spring once the camps are reopened for the season and this year will be no different than others. We had everything open and hooked up a good week ago and I had went back and checked for leaks. I found everything to be fine; nothing spraying or hissing, therefore thought "good"! It would have been nice to not have any winter damage; reason we antifreeze everything.

Well yesterday we had a worker helping out with a few things and offered the shower house to him after the day was done to get cleaned up. He came back to the house with not the best news......one side of the shower house was flooded....I mean flooded! One of the shower fittings apparently was leaking, or should I say running as it must have been because 2 shelves loaded with linens were soaked as well as about an inch of water on the floor and under the flooring....disaster with guests coming in the end of the week!!tightened the fittings once again and I still can't see how I could have possibly missed it when I checked last Thursday for the umpteenth time! We wiped things up as good as possible, but of course could not get under the linoleum and the blue board on the walls next to the shelving seemed saturated in good shape. Therefore, I left a fan on and the door open all night and have not yet been brave enough to go and see what has to now be replaced, repaired and fixed. I thank Mother Nature for bringing us some sunshine and good weather for a few days as this would have been even worse, imagine, had it still been raining. My nemesis "Blackcloud" has been in the house lately with the dreary weather and the healthy hatch of blackflies that drive me back into the house as I yell "RETREAT"!!! So now...take a deep breath...and lets go estimate the damage....

Spring has sprung a leak!

It has certainly been a while since my last post, so lets do a little catching up shall we? Spring finally made it to the Katahdin region, however it has been a very rainy and dreary one thus far. Water levels have been continually in flood stage for well over a month, although I have been told that the fish are starting to bite! Temperatures have also been well below normal, or what we would like as even today, I'm still burning a wood fire in the living room stove to keep the damp and chill off. So what have we been up to?? Big E has been doing quite a bit of work down on the new lot cutting and burning brush. We have decided exactly where we want to build the lodge and the view of the mountain range is absolutely breath taking. Many folks have stopped down while we have been burning brush and admiring the view as well. It's kind of nice to have the company come and go.
We have finally opened the camps for the season and will be working on finishing the third camp for the upcoming bear season. There is always work to be done around the place which can keep us busy puttering with this and that. The kayaks have come out of storage and need to be polished up. I have been wanting to get out on the water, but still have not due to the cold temps and high waters, not to mention the rain..... The fishing boat will be licensed the beginning of June with the first trip on the agenda being Nesowadnehunk Lake. Most trips will be closer to home this year however due to the high gas costs. Thankfully the river provides great fishing and recreation which we can take advantage of with the drop of a hat; fishing hat that is!
We have purchased some new leases for hunting and will be scouting the new grounds asap. This brings us in closer to camp, therefore less traveling and hopefully time and money savings too.  One never knows what the future holds, but we are looking forward to a great season in spite of the dreary weather!! Therefore folks, get out and enjoy Mother Nature, even if she is being a bit cranky!!

Off season

I have been asked by several folks, "what do you do this time of year?" Well, biggest reason I have not posted for a while is that this time of year is "off season" for us here in central Maine. Much like the weather not quite knowing if it is Spring or with the cold temps, ice and snow still on the ground and waterways, Winter? Some brave folks have continued to ice fish where the ice is still intact and I have heard reports on some waters still having up to three feet of ice. Others have found a few spots of open water and braved the cold waters on the river to wet a line. The latter I often refer to as the true "April Fool"!
So like many folks as they have got older, we don't like the cold!!! I'm not anywhere ready to fly south for the winter like the "snowbirds", however the wood stove has become my very best friend! Therefore, what do I do this time of year??? Paperwork! This is when I pull out the manilla folder stuffed full of all last years receipts, the notebook which logs all the  information on clients, guests, and income and figure out just exactly where the business fell in light of red or black. I'm not the most friendly person during this time of year, so Big E manages to keep busy and not ask too many questions!
Another description for this time of year is "mud season"! No matter what the weather.....by afternoon it is mud! I have attempted to teach our dogs to wipe their feet with about as much success as I have had teaching Big E! Therefore, I have failed and continually try to keep the gravel and mud cleaned up while I Stew over numbers and "to do" lists in my head.
So not to worry, I'm still here...

Coming out of hibernation

It has been quite a while since I have posted a blog about life in the Katahdin region, the guide service and being a lady guide, so forgive me if I should repeat anything of past blogs. It has not been because life stopped here in the dead of winter, but more like life slows down considerably as we are not a four season service at this point in time. Much like a bear in hibernation.
I believe this is the very first year that I did not go ice fishing. Big E went only once. I did not get out cross country skiing and only put the snowshoes on once. I have taken Buddy Beagle out a few times in training and have been working with him in the obedience department. He is coming along very well and we are expecting a couple of friends and fellow guides to bring their beagles and do a little bunny hunting for a week. This should advance Buddy in his training. Big E also has put out a few rabbit traps to try to let my beagle, which I often and lovingly refer to as my "Bagel", have some live runs. I also have been saying that I think this "bagel", is much like what a grandchild might be. Big E and I raised hunting dogs for many years and I was extremely involved with not only their care, but training as well. This is something I have missed even though I have a house full of Shiba's and Ozwald, the detailed training of a sporting dog. I think I'm spoiling him a bit too, however, he makes that very easy. Buddy is different from my other dogs and brings me great joy with his playful antics as well as impressing me with his quick ability to learn. He makes me laugh and we all know laughter is the best medicine. I truly feel I'm enjoying this little dog more than any of the others...or maybe it is just because he is here. Who knows? I have never been rabbit hunting before, so it will be a new experience that I'm looking forward to.
The days are getting longer, and the sun stronger.We will soon be busy finishing up the new cabin and doing some ground work on the new lot. I can not wait to get my kayak back in the water for a soul soothing ride  on the Penobscot. It will be nice to go fly fishing once again too. Funny thing...my sister, who has lived in Florida now for 6 years is always telling me to fly south with the birds. I have resisted and for the most part I do enjoy the changing of the seasons, the blanketing of winter and what it all means in the never ending turning wheel of life. However, I'am getting tired of the confinement, Spring fever maybe...or as we call it here..cabin fever. So lets get outdoors and enjoy Mother Nature!!!!

Home Sweet Home

It is Tuesday Feb.8th and we are at the big sportsmen show in Harrisburg Pa., and my thoughts constantly turn to home. It is not that I do not enjoy myself at the show, as there is so much to see and so many great folks to talk to, but there truly is no place like home. We have brought along Ozwald with us once again, which gives me some comfort, but I miss the little ones that I left behind. I have become a home body for the most part which makes it good considering that is also where I work from. However with the many adventures one could pick from here at the show, I have only one desire and that is to live my life in the outdoors right here in the Katahdin region; kayaking the Penobscot, gazing at the mighty Mount Katahdin, fishing Nesowadnehunk Lake and hunting the phantom black bear.
However, here I am, at the Eastern Sports and Outdoors Show so let me share a bit of that with you all. Ralph and Vicki Cianciarulu, the stars and hosts of " The Archers Choice" TV show are just a coupld booths down from us. I met them for the first time last year, which was so cool as I watch their show faithfully. I have always liked the way they interact with each other kidding and joking and they way they share their experiences in the outdoors. I tell you honestly, they are as they appear on the show; down to earth real people like you and I.
There is every kind of hunting and fishing adventure one could imagine or wish for to pick from here. Some day, I would like to go somewhere and hunt for a color phase bear. I'm a bear hunting addict!! I could go to Alaska, Alberta, Saskatchewan, British Columbia,or Manitoba! One can go to all points of the world from right here; Africa, New Zeland, Newfoundland, Labrador, any place in Canada, Mexico to Australia! Some of these is simply out of the question for me cause if I can't drive there, I'm probably never going. However for those adventurous it is an opportunity of a life time.
Along with adventures, and there are many I have left out, you can also find anything and everything to take on your adventures and then some. Lots of just really cool stuff to look at and buy as well from jewelry, clothing and every imaginable gadget. You can even buy a new truck!!! What make and model are you looking for, it's here!!! How about a new 4 wheeler, or motorcycle?? It's here. Boats, boats and more boats!!!! Even log cabins!

However, we are here to keep our business alive so we can continue to live, love and play in the place I love the most.......Home!!!!

After all, it is winter

It is Tuesday, February 1st, 2011, and we are getting things ready to see what we have to pack into the truck for our yearly adventure to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania for the annual Eastern Outdoors and Sports Show, where we exhibit for the guide service. Currently, PA. is getting coated with ice in a huge storm that has affected and will affect most of the lower 48 States. The predictions for us here in Maine is snow, snow and more snow; up to a foot and a half starting this afternoon. We have been going to this show now for 5 years and have had the good luck to travel in good weather. Many times we have had a storm on our heals..but good roads still. Well, I knew at some point this luck would end, or just the fact that it IS winter and with winter comes snow.
Last year we traveled to Harrisburg and overlooked bare fields of brown. However, when we opened the motel door the next morning we were greeted with 22 inches of snow. Well we are from Maine, and have experience with snow!! Even though it is winter in Pennsylvania too, they seemed to be devastated with this amount of snow. Big E and I just simply put the truck into 4 wheel drive and off we went, no problem. Well as the week progressed, they got more snow...and for the very first time in 55 years, they closed the show due to the snow closing the interstates and stranding some exhibitors at the exhibit hall. Still we thought, oh well...it is winter!! We arrived back at our motel around 1:30pm and relaxed for a bit. Around 4:00pm, we thought well, lets go get something to eat. So we hopped in the truck and off we went, only to find that not even a McDonalds was open. It was like the city shut off all the lights and rolled up the sidewalks! Nothing, absolutely nothing was open, not even a convenience store could be found open. No Dunkin Donuts for a coffee..no nothing. We were asked why we were even out on the roads, and simply replied, we are from Maine and it's just snow....
This year looks to be much of the same, and we will even prepare a bit more for that fact, but still, it is just winter. I will admit, I do not like to travel on bad roads or in storms, however it is not for fear that we will have a problem, but that someone else will involve us in their problem and with some of the interstates we travel on to get there I have little to no faith that some of these people should have drivers licenses to begin with! Once we get there, I care little what happens, but ask of Mother Nature to treat me with a little special consideration that although I can handle what she decides to dish out in general, let me get there and get home safely and a little sunshine would really be nice.

See you at the Show!!!!!

For the Sports enthusiast January marks the beginning of the sportsmen shows circuit all over the United States. Here in the northeast there is a show almost every weekend through the month of March.Some guides and outfitters follow the circuit from show to show, while others pick and choose which is the best one or ones that benefit them the most. For Big E and I, we exhibit at the Eastern Outdoors and Sports Show in Harrisburg Pennsylvania which is considered the biggest show in the northeast as well as one of the longest running shows, running 9 days beginning the first weekend of every February. To the outdoors lover, this show is the Disney World of sports shows with everything and anything ones heart could desire, or even imagine. For many it is also the place to talk directly with guides and outfitters for that dream hunt, fishing trip or vacation of a lifetime. But how do you choose??? I'm going to give you some tips to help you make the best choices when making your decision.
First off understand the difference between a guide, guide service and an outfitter. When you are talking with a guide service, you are generally talking with the folks who will be guiding and hosting you. A guide can work for himself or herself, or for a specific guide service or outfitter. You will want to know who, where and what in this case. Some guide services are also an outfitter like myself, but other outfitters may be more like a travel agent; they can set up all the details, but you may never see this person again.
There are hundreds, maybe even thousands to choose from depending on the show you attend. You need to narrow things down. First, where is the destination you wish to go, and what species or adventure are you looking for. You may wish to book right at the show, or you may be one of those who fill up a bag full of brochures to check out later. I recommend if you know where and what you would like, book at the show. This is the best opportunity to talk face to face with those who are offering the services. It is a good thing to have a list of questions ready to ask them. This will save you time, effort and money.

Now what is the difference between the big well known businesses and the smaller ones? The big guys often come with the big prices. Kind of like paying for brand name products, or less expensive bargain brands. This comes right down to how deep are your pockets. Many of the big guys offer all the bells and whistles of a fancy resort while most smaller ones provide the comforts of home, and some are very rustic. These kinds of details should be decided before you go to the show. What is it that you want to experience.
Finally, the price. What are the services offered. Remember the golden rule; if it sounds too good to be true, probably is. Some will offer discounts or show specials for those booking at the show. I have done this in the past, however, this year, with the high increases in cost to operate and the price of gas, it is just not an option. Therefore, this should not be your defining decision maker. This is where it can get complicated. Some will lower prices at the show as it progresses if they are not booking clients. Beware!! They may also be cutting services or worse, not be able to produce what is promised. Unless you have the cash to shoot for the stars, I recommend looking at those who are offering the same services in the same price range give or take a couple hundred dollars.
Ask questions; take time to talk. Do they seem genuinely friendly and willing to talk?? Remember you will be spending up to a week with these people. Do they appear to be reading from a script or are they open and comfortable talking to you. Watch out for those that appear to be putting on a show or lure folks into their booths with pretty things.
Take the time to prepare, and have a great time at the show!!

See you at the Show!!

The Lyons Den
By Kimberley M Lyons
        For the sports enthusiasts January marks the beginning of the sportsmen
shows all over the United States. Here in the Northeast there is a show
almost every weekend through the month of March.
        Some guides and outfitters follow the circuit going from one show to
another, while others pick and choose the ones or one that benefits them
and their schedules the best. For Big E and I, we exhibit at the Eastern
Outdoors and Sports Show in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania which is considered
the biggest show in the northeast. This is also one of the longest shows
running for nine days beginning the first weekend of February every year.
        To the outdoor lover, this is like the Disney world of sports shows with
everything the outdoors man and woman could possibly think or dream of
for any and all outdoor activities. For many, this is the place to talk
with the guides and outfitters to book their adventures for the upcoming
seasons. But how do you choose? Here are some tips to consider when
making the decision, that for some, is a once in a lifetime adventure.
                First, understand the difference between a guide, guide service and an
outfitter. When you are talking with a guide service you are generally
talking directly with the folks who will be guiding and hosting you. An
outfitter may also be a guide, or guide service; however some outfitters
are more like a travel agent. They will set up all the details and you
may never see this person again.
        There are hundreds, even thousands depending on the show to choose from.
Of course, first is your destination. That will narrow the choices down. 
What is it you want to do? That will narrow it down even further and this
is where you want to start. You may wish to book your adventure right at
the show, or you have a bag full of brochures to look at, read and think
about. I think it is good, if you know you want to book an adventure to
book at the shows as you can talk face to face, and ask questions. Have a
list of questions ready that covers all aspects of services with you.
This will save you time, effort and money.
        Next, what is the difference between big well known services and smaller
businesses? The big guys often come with big prices, much like paying for
brand name items versus bargain brands. This comes down to how deep are
your pockets. Many of the big guys provide all the bells and whistles of
a fancy resort with all the luxuries while the smaller ones have most of
the comforts of home, and some are very rustic. These kinds of details
should be considered before going to the show.
        Finally, the price. What are the services offered? Remember the golden
rule; if it sounds too good, it probably is. Some offer discounts and
show specials for those attending and booking at the show; others will
not. This is where is can get complicated. Some may lower prices as the
show progresses if they are not booking clients. Be careful! After all,
speaking from experience, business expenses do not go down. Therefore if
someone is offering something for that low of a price, they may be
cutting services and you may really be disappointed. Unless you have the
cash to shoot for the stars, I recommend looking at those that are
offering the same services for just about the same price range give or
take a couple hundred dollars. Take time to talk, ask questions. Do they
seem to be putting on a show, reading from a script or are they genuinely
friendly?
        Have a great time at the show!!!!

Preparations!

Things have been a bit slow here these last few weeks and I haven't thought of a lot to write here.....happens sometimes. However things well be changing starting this week as we gear up to prepare for our adventure to Harrisburg Pa. for the biggest sports show in the Northeast. There are several shows going on and many guides and outfitters will run the circuit. I think of it and it makes me tired!! I could not imagine basically being gone from home for 2 months going all over the northeast setting up and tearing down to go to the next one. I also wonder as I'm very aware at the cost of these shows let alone the cost of gas, food and lodging while away, how some of them do it. For us, it is extra hard to leave home as we have our animals and we heat primarily with wood. We have to set up a sitter for the dogs and house. I have anxiety like many folks and hate to leave home for any period of time. I have a good time once we get there as long as things go well. I call home a lot to check on things and go from there. Drives Big E crazy sometimes as my nemesis/Alias Blackcloud often emerges full force. Also, twice I have come down with a bad bug and was absolutely miserable. I didn't even want to go to the show, but Big E would not go alone. I would sit in one of the folding chairs in the back of the booth, trying to breath, stop the world from spinning and my guts from rolling. To put it in perspective, I was not is a good place, nor having a very good time. So I wish for the best and take what I get.
This year will be difficult as the gas prices have sky rocketed once again. We downsized to the Ford Ranger mainly for better gas mileage, and the fact that it was newer than the 2 other vehicles/trucks we have. I would not dare to make the venture with the 98, as she is now 13 years old and I have no confidence on her performance so far from home. However, we will be paying just as much to fill the Ranger and we did the full size 98 that did make the trip 3 times. No savings there!! I do wonder what it will come to, as we do not have the option of public transportation in our region and I have already cut my trips to town quite significantly. Blackcloud emerges.....
I have to do some painting on the front display of our booth, have a few new pictures blown up for the exhibit display and get things in general packed such as the brochures and business cards. Must take out the luggage bags and start thinking about what to pack so that I'm not doing it last minute. However I have always said that I work well under pressure and tend to procrastinate badly. Oh well, we will see what I can accomplish!! I also have a meeting tonight for the Penobscot County Wildlife Conservation Association and Thursday is the Fin and Feather Clubs annual fish fry, of which I'm making a big salad for them. So I have plenty to do....must get busy!!!

Winter Wonderland

Everything is covered this morning with a fresh frosting of fluffy white snow, with more possibly on it's way this coming Wednesday with the seasons second Nor-Easter that could drop a foot of snow if the storm tracks right. Big E and the boys have been occupied trapping live rabbits for a beagle club down State, and a few beaver as well. Last Spring Big E trapped 53 beavers locally which have been causing havoc with land owners. Some don't realize that beavers are not only great workers...but they destroy roads and forest. Do they create an ecosystem with their ponds, well yes. However the damage usually out weighs any habitat they create, by destroying others.
There is not enough snow in general for snowshoeing currently, and I need to check to see if cross country ski trails have been groomed. Not that one needs groomed trails but they are very nice. Ice conditions are improving, however as reports have come in, there is still great dangers on the waters. A four wheeler went through the ice on Long Lake even after they checked ice depths that were from 4-7 inches. The ice depths are not universal and can go from 7 to 0 in just a matter of a few feet. Any waterways with a current, I would not even consider trying yet. We have had warm temperatures with rains off and on and have not had an actual period or sub zero temps to make good ice.
I have so many preparations to do for our upcoming trip to Harrisburg which will be on a shoestring this year. The gas costs are estimated to double with current prices defeating the fact that we purchased the Ford Ranger for better gas mileage. We will be paying as much for the little truck as we did for the full size 98 that made the trip 3 times. This is frustrating as I'm trying to figure out ways to cut costs, but can't really see an end to the battle.
I enjoy the show and have a good time for the most part when I'm there. We have met so many great folks and it has become like a big reunion in a way with the friends we have made. However, I'm not a good traveler and tend to be a homebody. Therefore Big E has caved and is letting me take my akita Ozwald once again with us. I have no idea how I'm going to fit him in with the little truck which was the one reason he has not gone with us for the past two years. I'm much calmer having him with me even though I do truly miss those left behind with a sitter. Yes we have to have a sitter for the dogs when we go!

Happy New Year!!! So how was 2010 anyway????

                This is the time of year that most of us stop, take a look over our shoulders and ask ourselves,” How good of a year was 2010? Kind of like a progress report.

                Therefore how did we do with last year’s resolutions before we start making any new ones! I resolved to not let any opportunity to enjoy the outdoors pass me by. I think I did pretty well. I went snowshoeing more times, although the cross country skis’ stood in the corner. However this was due to the fact that I need a new pair of boots.

                I resolved to get out on the water with the kayaks more. Done!! I went out at all times of the day, with the early morning mist rides being my absolute favorite “me” time. I explored new waters and managed to get my best friend out for a day to the Twin Lakes. That day in fact was one of the best of the summer!

                I resolved to go fishing on a whim. I left the house work behind, packed a lunch for all who came along and I went fishing!!! I had evenings that I put my feet up, kicked back, and played photographer way before gorgeous sunsets because I had already limited out with a beautiful catch of native brookies’! Try to top that!

                I resolved to spend more time in a treestand and considering that I sat out with two of my hunting clients, during bear season, I also sat out the complete fourth week of season. I did not get a bear over bait this year; however I did manage to trap a nice one hundred and seventy five pound boar with an awesome thick wooly coat. I thanked the Great Spirit for the gift and wasted not a thing.

                The last resolution I succeeded in keeping is by far the most important and the most rewarding; I shared these things with others! First of all, I shared these times with my biggest fan, Big E. I mentioned my day with my BFF. However the best time of the year was when a special young man joined us on an expedition to my little piece of Heaven on Earth, Nesowanehunk Lake.  Nick Cote accompanied Big E, myself and Chet “the other Fly Rod” Crosby for an evening of kayaking and fly fishing. We loaded two of our kayaks on top of the sixteen foot fishing boat, “The Nymph”, and headed out for an afternoon and evening of pure bliss. It could not have been any better as Nick had never been kayaking or fly fishing. I have always said, “Take someone outdoors”! Nick not only caught on quickly to kayaking, he caught his limit of trout that evening as well! Nicks, younger brother has joined us in the outdoors this year for the first time, just having turned old enough to hunt.

                An honorable second best event for 2010, goes to my good friend Linda Crosby, for the good memories we will always have when we look back at the moose hunts. Linda succeeded to take her second Maine moose in September with a wicked nice bull. We have enjoyed many a Bar-B-Que of moose burgers and Ktaadn Chili!

                The year was blessed with many more wonderful moments. Nick and his Dad, Peter “Coyote” Cote, classmate and fellow guide, joined us once again for bear season. We had a couple surprise visits from two couples from Pennsylvania that have become good friends through the hunting world that warmed the heart. I had two new lady hunters and a new youth hunter for bear season; I always view that as an accomplishment.

                There were a few bumps in the road; a pothole here and there. My alias “Blackcloud” visited here and again. I still stressed too much claiming I work well under pressure. However, overall I would rate the year on a scale of one to ten, a wicked good nine!! Happy New Year folks!!!!