tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76149835569215336502024-03-12T23:28:35.056-04:00Houghton Lake HappeningsHoughton Lake area news and events including Tip Up Town, Bud Bash and more.Ken Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.comBlogger68125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-30708827299269564322012-07-12T21:31:00.001-04:002012-07-12T21:31:58.682-04:00Reedsburg Dam Fishing Report<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzSk_vMbZ2g52kUqtb9q0muUjIehrv888zp588hvt27BANKqiSmVS3K8DcvklQkZZzB9PmVz37N8CDeI1huQm4BUW09IrelP8KfC-4NWYOwGzzT6aL5A7EbsHnFbiVI8Ncg4p_OPSngW8/s1600/023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzSk_vMbZ2g52kUqtb9q0muUjIehrv888zp588hvt27BANKqiSmVS3K8DcvklQkZZzB9PmVz37N8CDeI1huQm4BUW09IrelP8KfC-4NWYOwGzzT6aL5A7EbsHnFbiVI8Ncg4p_OPSngW8/s400/023.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reedsburg Dam with very low water levels</td></tr>
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The hot and very dry summer has left many of the lakes around Michigan with low water levels. Reeds burg Dam and the Dead Stream Flooding are no exception. The low side of the dam is at the lowest it has been in many years. It has only rained a few times in the Houghton Lake area since spring. <br />
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Add that the winter was mild and below normal snow fall hindered the water levels after the initial runoff which came early in February/March. Water levels were very low last year due to lack of rain but this year is even worse.<br />
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What are normally good areas to fish in at this time of year have become so shallow that the vegetation has grown to the point that access is limited at best. One such area is directly across from the boat launch. The fishing there was very good in the spring but levels are so low you might be able to walk on it.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset at Reedsburg Dam (Dead Stream Flooding)</td></tr>
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With all that said, the fishing is still good, sometimes. The warm weather and low water levels are heating the water to the point of being like a heated pool. Great for swimmers and sunbathers but not so much for fishing. The very warm water keeps fish still and slows their feeding. So fishing is best in the morning after the water has had a chance to cool overnight. Also fishing in the late evening is usually good about an hour before sunset.<br />
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Small fish can usually be caught any time during the day mostly near Lilly pads or other vegetation that offers cover. Trolling can be very effective for larger fish. Since there is no real deep water at Reedsburg (especially now) try trolling near or over weed beds or reeds.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two hook harness with plastic worm</td></tr>
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Lately I've had success with a plastic worm on a two hook harness with a single spinner, I have two, one with a silver spinner and one with a single florescent green spinner blade and five beads. I troll with a 50 Minn Kota electric motor set at one or two if trolling into the wind. This allows me to troll for hours without draining the battery very much.<br />
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<b>Best time</b>: Mornings at sunrise<br />
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<b>Best bait</b>: A toss up but I do well with nightcrawlers, both real or plastic if trolling. The plastic stops the small ones from biting the tail and pulling the bait off the hooks.<br />
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So come on up and don't forget your bug spray and sun block. Oh yeah and a bathing suit because the water is fine.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunbathers taking a dip from the dam</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset over the Reedsburg Dam</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunset over Dead Stream Flooding</td></tr>
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Hope to see you up here. It's been a great summer so far...<br />
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Ken SKen Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-23902690725095371212012-07-08T14:48:00.000-04:002012-07-08T14:48:00.063-04:00Bluegill Festival 2012The 63rd Annual <b>Bluegill Festival</b> 2012 is coming to <span style="background-color: white;">St Helen</span><span style="background-color: white;"> July 12-15. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPl2BXQnYotdO7s5ZosKnLLd648rWEClFtol974JBWwbZnMYKj1KrAxpivzRRsfGoBKYdn8B7M3J4J2iV9otWdtnVFiog6yQg3OFn2yznZQmTpzdh6mCV379afs0Xi2yEoy7xAbo7V_ck/s1600/100_0151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPl2BXQnYotdO7s5ZosKnLLd648rWEClFtol974JBWwbZnMYKj1KrAxpivzRRsfGoBKYdn8B7M3J4J2iV9otWdtnVFiog6yQg3OFn2yznZQmTpzdh6mCV379afs0Xi2yEoy7xAbo7V_ck/s400/100_0151.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bluegill by Reedsburg Dam</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Summer kicks off with the festival celebrating one of the areas favorite indigenous species, the bluegill. Known primarily as a tasty treat, bluegill are also a whole lot of fun to catch. Their fan like body can give them a lot of kick when caught on a hook. I have often thought I had a good sized bass on the line only to discover it was a small bluegill.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">These sometimes sizable fish are a member of the sunfish family and are so alike in appearance (especially during spawning),</span> bluegill<span style="background-color: white;"> are often mistaken for sunfish. Either way they fight like heck and eat the same.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">In celebration of these feisty fish St Helen will have a Grand parade, a kids parade, a talent show, a medallion hunt, arts and crafts, horseshoe contest, softball contest,bingo and a fishing contest. And much more.</span><br />
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So if your in Houghton Lake area the weekend of July 12-15. Stop by the Bluegill festival for some rides, contests, fishing and parades. Beverage tent and live entertainment.
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<span style="background-color: white;">For more festival info</span><a href="http://www.bluegillfestival.org/" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank"> click here.</a><br />
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As always hope to see you there.<br />
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Ken S<br />
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<br />Ken Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-51176303713659760572012-07-05T14:06:00.002-04:002012-07-05T14:53:01.934-04:00Houghton Lake Fishing Report: July 5,2012<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJjRlexx3icEVtLR1YdzBTlCthyphenhyphenpkF1bBFyxm8d1vVSNZS8Xl86XNMTaiu3hWeW2zwpSTtZtk0imzwQDu-vSyA3sqvXGRbym2aNpp63lDBjPPvH0aHzq4ZGMNetgS9LWdoxllZrsm6Rjk/s1600/100_0130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJjRlexx3icEVtLR1YdzBTlCthyphenhyphenpkF1bBFyxm8d1vVSNZS8Xl86XNMTaiu3hWeW2zwpSTtZtk0imzwQDu-vSyA3sqvXGRbym2aNpp63lDBjPPvH0aHzq4ZGMNetgS9LWdoxllZrsm6Rjk/s400/100_0130.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crappie while trolling at Reedsburg Dam</td></tr>
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Fishing conditions have been less than optimal (to say the least) over the past few weeks. High winds have made the waters murky as well as making it difficult to stay in one spot even when using two anchors. <span style="background-color: white;">The temperatures have been very high lately causing the fishing to be erratic especially during the day.</span><br />
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In these conditions I have one word "trolling". Trolling is simply moving your bait through the water behind a boat at a slow speed, using a specialized electric or small gas motor. This works two fold in that <span style="background-color: white;">the fish tend to be agitated by the moving bait, much the same as casting and retrieving, and </span><span style="background-color: white;">you can cover a large area increasing your chances of success.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9-BJI9VRvX-RWQMyw3oGpFbTPCne8unaElt5CIBHbpetmPpbMkBzcFaRKnSL9ydnKJnS7xYwYrEZLu_P005WYJN9LiLHtGn9Ry93GJISrhJpnpLCFHFHlvdDrWM7nwSeOwbYvXAzxRdk/s1600/100_0148.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9-BJI9VRvX-RWQMyw3oGpFbTPCne8unaElt5CIBHbpetmPpbMkBzcFaRKnSL9ydnKJnS7xYwYrEZLu_P005WYJN9LiLHtGn9Ry93GJISrhJpnpLCFHFHlvdDrWM7nwSeOwbYvXAzxRdk/s400/100_0148.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Largemouth trolling at Reedsburg Dam</td></tr>
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If you have never tried it or tried it unsuccessfully I would give it a try. I do not recommend using a regular boat engine, at least not for an extended period of time. The engine uses a shaft driven water pump and at very slow speeds may not pump enough water to keep the engine cool and could cause engine damage. Possibly even seize the engine. Nothing can ruin a day on the lake like hoping for someone to give you a tow back to the boat launch or dock. I know this from personal experience.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiugmPDpNMnfCSSoLIsbjJVWI1SrXBysDbv2tK9DYLrf61MQSyeflStOr10vnN-SBV9t9VwAg1m_blaRirneUXT-mKnBjIyadYLQaSDqLoIlfhGfjII9R4IICa8mAxyhCJwwO6VjJOPOA/s1600/100_0129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiugmPDpNMnfCSSoLIsbjJVWI1SrXBysDbv2tK9DYLrf61MQSyeflStOr10vnN-SBV9t9VwAg1m_blaRirneUXT-mKnBjIyadYLQaSDqLoIlfhGfjII9R4IICa8mAxyhCJwwO6VjJOPOA/s400/100_0129.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rock Bass at Backus lake</td></tr>
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<b>Best fishing</b>:<span style="background-color: white;"> late evening (an hour before sunset) or, </span><span style="background-color: white;">in the early morning after the water has had a chance to cool. If your set on fishing during the day try the deeper water off the south DNR boat launch (site of the Tip Up Town USA). The south weed bed runs along this area and usually produces walleye, perch, bluegill and northern pike.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b>Best bait</b>: anything that works. I've caught bluegill, bass, crappie and perch on nightcrawlers and on plastics. I had a fellow next me on the Cut river catch a 16" largemouth using a chub (think very large minnow). Some swear by leeches for walleye especially trolling in the summer.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">There's a new bait shop in town, Angelo's on old 27 (formerly Dead Stream Party Store). Actually they're a party store with bait. They have snacks and hope to have a beer license soon. Just a short ride from the Reedsburg Dam campground and boat launch. If you need some bait or some goodies you don't have to drive into town.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">That's all for now. </span><span style="background-color: white;">Hope to see you on the lake.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Ken S</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span>Ken Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-67675365708103229322012-07-05T12:30:00.000-04:002012-07-05T12:32:53.304-04:00Bud Bash 2012: Here It ComesLove it or hate it Bud Bash in Houghton Lake, Michigan is on it's way.<br />
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Bud Bash is a summer time legend in Michigan, surrounding states and parts of Canada. When sun worshipers and boaters of all ages converge on our little town (on the shores of the biggest inland lake in Michigan) for a weekend of unrivaled fun on the water. OK the Jobbie Nooner could be a close second. Both involve boats and sunbathers and lakes. Both are Pure Michigan (tongue in cheek).<br />
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The Jobbie Nooner is held on an island in Lake St Clair, in the late springtime and during the week. Bud Bash is held at the Limberlost Bar & Grill on the south shore of Houghton Lake, the first Saturday of August. Jobbie Nooner is often cool and rainy. Bud Bash is hot, hot,HOT!<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Sponsored by Budweiser, there is plenty of refreshments,freshly prepared food,</span> and my favorite, <span style="background-color: white;"> live music. Limberlost has a spacious deck with a beautiful view of Houghton Lake and a dock for those that wish to arrive by boat. Many boaters just tie off to each other and enjoy the sun and fun from their boats.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">The actual Bud Bash is on Saturday but many revelers begin on Friday and continue on through Sunday. Especially when the weather is nice. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">This has been a booming summer for Houghton Lake so far. Whether due to gas prices dropping in time for summer or just word getting around about what a great place Houghton Lake is to vacation it's a welcome sight for local merchants. There are plenty of other festivals and activities in and around Houghton Lake for non Bashers.</span><br />
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Plan early if you'll need a motel room for the night. We have campgrounds near town, several state campgrounds and parks.<br />
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Tips for a good time:<br />
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<li><span style="background-color: white;">Drink plenty of water</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Drink </span><span style="background-color: white;">responsibly</span><span style="background-color: white;">. Alcohol dehydrates (each year someone goes to the hospital for dehydration)</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Monitor your time in the sun and use sunscreen or sunblock </span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Please be </span><span style="background-color: white;">responsible and respect other peoples property (the biggest single complaint is property damage to homes near the Limberlost) </span></li>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">We want you to have good time but drink </span><span style="background-color: white;">responsibly</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">So come early and stay late.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Hope to see you there,</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">Ken S</span>Ken Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-54272518677201023972012-05-24T18:22:00.000-04:002012-05-24T18:24:30.812-04:00Houghton Lake Memorial Weekend 2012 Fishing Report<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgrN9BkLi_JA1w0xGbSEDE0iOoudKebls5zzEhMx8RdxKW2c4Fy3dRw13dBfXsC5m_8Nti4zyJbhPsZ-FLcrPnuRIXDU0DztZb5km8lie-kvO455oEx4CmMBUiN1jSmDnQzuGbGPzczck/s1600/014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgrN9BkLi_JA1w0xGbSEDE0iOoudKebls5zzEhMx8RdxKW2c4Fy3dRw13dBfXsC5m_8Nti4zyJbhPsZ-FLcrPnuRIXDU0DztZb5km8lie-kvO455oEx4CmMBUiN1jSmDnQzuGbGPzczck/s320/014.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunfish at Reedsburg Dam</td></tr>
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There's good news and bad news.<br />
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Good news first.<br />
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The Walleye and Bluegill are biting on Houghton and Higgins Lakes. I'm not positive but I've heard the Bluegill are biting on St Helen lake also.<br />
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In <u><i><b>Houghton Lake</b></i></u>: Best places are near the weed beds along the south shore, west shore and the middle weed bed. Also fishing should be good in the East Bay near Harveys Marine. The North Bay holds some nice sized Northern Pike and Walleye.<br />
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In <u><i><b>Higgins Lake</b></i></u>: Rock Bass, Perch and Bluegills are being reported along the west/south shoreline in 15-20 ft of water.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice size Crappie at Reedsburg Dam</td></tr>
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In <u><i><b>St Helen</b></i></u>: Some of the best Bluegill fishing in the state is near the weed bed off Artesia beach (near the west end.<br />
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Bad news.<br />
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The fish were biting at the <u><i><b>Cut River</b></i></u> but have slowed considerably. Best times for fishing would be late morning/early evening.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixHgcNPLHY8yCtnMr7pUY_v8HlsGELf450ZwrRom2EjFxeN8OaLnr_7s6xU4xQcsWdbpqxOHILXjhc8olXYnvkvFFvZo_DBRiUCM-PGwGovto4wjv5LRsSAvNZM9PoUPUOur4PwjVekQk/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixHgcNPLHY8yCtnMr7pUY_v8HlsGELf450ZwrRom2EjFxeN8OaLnr_7s6xU4xQcsWdbpqxOHILXjhc8olXYnvkvFFvZo_DBRiUCM-PGwGovto4wjv5LRsSAvNZM9PoUPUOur4PwjVekQk/s320/004.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reedsburg Dam flooding side</td></tr>
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<i><b><u>Reedsburg Dam</u></b></i> also had great fishing on the low side but the water level has dropped considerably in the past week. Fishing has dropped off BUT fishing on the flooding side of the dam has started to pick up for Bass and Bluegill. So Reedsburg is a toss up for this weekend.<br />
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<u><i><b>Backus Lake</b></i></u> no report due to high winds but Bluegills and Perch plus some Northern Pike and Bass are always possible. Try near weed beds along shore or in the middle.<br />
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<u><i><b>Backus Dam</b></i></u> off M-18 fishing has been poor due to high fast moving water but could improve over the weekend.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo86_tBM9c9MUGqRL6HYbn5xPkHZtyfgHxbHhH1ASZH1JiSldcqSK-JMWUqPNl2hJKBYzmWqjyvQ8kT1PTgx7YAFpB3okw-nIq_9YOFAVcvigsDgK5LeiSdZ0QObYr3hFQNbCsIN1n3yQ/s1600/008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo86_tBM9c9MUGqRL6HYbn5xPkHZtyfgHxbHhH1ASZH1JiSldcqSK-JMWUqPNl2hJKBYzmWqjyvQ8kT1PTgx7YAFpB3okw-nIq_9YOFAVcvigsDgK5LeiSdZ0QObYr3hFQNbCsIN1n3yQ/s320/008.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rock Bass at Reedsburg Dam</td></tr>
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<u><b>Weather forecast</b></u> is for plenty of sunshine and high temperatures in the 80's. Great for sunbathing not so much for fishing. Also wind predictions are between 10-15 mph. So mornings and evenings should be optimal with lower temps and less wind. Fishing should be good all day.<br />
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<b><u>Best Bait</u></b> I have been getting hits on both live bait and plastics. Check with your local bait shop for which is working best for what your after.<br />
<br />Ken Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-36889471677731730582012-04-11T18:12:00.000-04:002012-04-11T18:12:11.269-04:002012 Easter Egg Drop at Houghton Lake Bloggett Airport<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The Easter Bunny arrived at Houghton Lake Bloggett Airport a little after 10am on Saturday in a Cessna 172. Marking the beginning of the Easter Egg Drop.<br />
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Soon after the plane made three separate passes over the 36/18 grass runway as plastic Easter eggs were dropped to the grass. After each pass children of different ages ran onto the grass strip carrying baskets and bags, and picked up as many Easter eggs as they could.<br />
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Several of the Easter eggs were special and were turned in for prizes. All participants received a bag of Easter goodies. <br />
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There was a very good turn out, no doubt, partially due to the beautiful, sunny day and warm temperatures.<span style="text-align: center;"> </span>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easter Bunny</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Handing out goodies</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smile for the camera</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting for the plane</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easter Eggs being dropped</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting in line to turn in their eggs for prizes</td></tr>
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</div>Ken Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0Markey, MI, USA44.3694948 -84.668834844.324050299999996 -84.7477988 44.4149393 -84.5898708tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-90083290828093397222012-03-30T13:29:00.000-04:002012-03-30T13:30:33.992-04:00Fishing Dead Stream Flooding Mar 20,2012<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYGrlNm3jokw-7vNKKj56RT-xqw-rVtf82VXUz9NWDC4mXW7NknSbeKeTJc49WjrwzOxYMsy-qSspmLxE2h9HFkoP2lCUZMOWeFPsRxKsH5F872YHUWVuiIsC9Q_HWAIo7do1bjsewkfA/s1600/100_0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYGrlNm3jokw-7vNKKj56RT-xqw-rVtf82VXUz9NWDC4mXW7NknSbeKeTJc49WjrwzOxYMsy-qSspmLxE2h9HFkoP2lCUZMOWeFPsRxKsH5F872YHUWVuiIsC9Q_HWAIo7do1bjsewkfA/s320/100_0002.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crappie near Reedsburg Dam</td></tr>
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I had a pretty successful day of fishing on Dead Stream Flooding by the Reedsburg Dam. I went out around 2 in the afternoon and worked my way around from the boat launch to the dam and back before finally finding a spot with the fish biting. I'm not sure if it was the spot or the time as it was near 5 before I tried the last spot where I finally had a bite.<br />
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First catch was a small (maybe 18" Northern Pike), then a Largemouth Bass. A short move to get away from the wind brought me to an area of dried cattails and clumps of vegetation. It was also a hot spot for Sunfish and Crappie most bigger than 8".<br />
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I was fishing nightcrawlers on a 1/32 oz orange jighead about 12" below a weighted orange bobber. Seems I had a bite in each direction I cast my line.<br />
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The water levels are high right now from winter runoff so the area I was in may not be accessible in the summer when water levels are low. I know the area is filled with tree stumps that are easily seen from shore in the summer.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Backus Creek Spring 2012</td></tr>
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I plan to try kayak fishing this year to reach several areas around Houghton Lake that are not accessible by boat in the summer. Fish are pretty much undisturbed in these areas so I expect the fishing to be very good to excellent.<br />
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One area is near a Backus Creek dam. It was a busy area last summer with many people fishing from the shore. The water level was low last year and some people were walking out on what is normally water covered vegetation. In the evenings fish can be seen breaking the surface just outside of casting range. If the fish won't come to me, I'll go to them.<br />
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I have already had a great deal of success catching Northerns, Largemouths, Sunfish, Bluegill, Crappie and Dogfish (Bowfin). I believe this to be a great year of fishing. If you haven't been fishing in awhile this could be a good year to take it up again. Dust off the old fishing rod and grab some friends and get out to the water, drop a line in and relax. Introduce a youngster to fishing this year.<br />
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<b><i><u>Backus Lake Update</u></i></b>: Logging is still going on near Backus Lake and the heavy equipment is taking it's toll on the dirt roads. Though their adding dirt and grading there are still some areas you won't be able to get a camper past. Hopefully by May they'll be finished and have the road back to an accessible level for campers.<br />
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Come up and see us soon.<br />
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Ken SKen Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-68826668544074029842012-03-16T17:11:00.000-04:002012-03-16T17:11:59.378-04:00Houghton Lake Ice Out Underway<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihNEJezkFY_KkeqLApd4oqUhW6wzrX3e3PIEmww4GPNwzDMDXqEKsUaGeKtM7tZRfe9MlDRhj1kEszsFb1wxX2qbNerijXK-KAf4ehQA_6lxXvRTSVJTF8zBxiUinYYRAe9fqmOSSLiHk/s1600/100_0013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihNEJezkFY_KkeqLApd4oqUhW6wzrX3e3PIEmww4GPNwzDMDXqEKsUaGeKtM7tZRfe9MlDRhj1kEszsFb1wxX2qbNerijXK-KAf4ehQA_6lxXvRTSVJTF8zBxiUinYYRAe9fqmOSSLiHk/s320/100_0013.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dead Stream Flooding by Reedsburg Dam</td></tr>
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Houghton Lake and surrounding area bodies of water and waterways could be ice free by the end of March if not sooner. Due to the warm temperatures all winter, especially in March (as much as 25 degrees above normal for this time of year), the ground never fully froze. And along with the abundance of sunny days areas such as Dead Stream Flooding by Reedsburg Dam are 90% open water. The melting snow and ice has caused high water levels and fast moving rivers and creeks.<br />
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<br />
In the photo above you just see a small amount of ice along the western shore. This was taken on March 15, 2012. Many Geese, Ducks and other water fowl have already returned to the area.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4YLZ6zIWuobXdfe4LlOVMVLu2AP2AehJvD1flizyfxfXqpvixOkmOBJKA4hAXxM31R62k0UW3wvCVUQzSyfYzuQoJ5gOoe_oYtbwHpoQH_00yhb2qJlzHKlnS9kZEJMzVE9qnS8ft2u4/s1600/100_0010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4YLZ6zIWuobXdfe4LlOVMVLu2AP2AehJvD1flizyfxfXqpvixOkmOBJKA4hAXxM31R62k0UW3wvCVUQzSyfYzuQoJ5gOoe_oYtbwHpoQH_00yhb2qJlzHKlnS9kZEJMzVE9qnS8ft2u4/s320/100_0010.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reedsburg Dam March 2012</td></tr>
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As seen in the photograph on the right, the water levels on the low side (riverside) of Reedsburg Dam are very high. The water is almost to the bottom of the west bank access stairs. The water is moving so swiftly it was near impossible to fish this side of the bridge. Reports are that there's no activity in this area.<br />
<br />
Fishing will probably remain poor until the water temperatures rise and the water levels recede to normal after the spring runoff.<br />
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If the warm weather persists summer fishing will begin early this year. The downside is that the insect population could explode early with record numbers. But until then I'm just enjoying the warm days for as long as they last.<br />
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For those who fish or camp at Backus Lake off M-18, there is lumber being harvested in the area. That coupled with the early thaw is leaving deep muddy ruts along the road that are hard to get through even with four wheel drive. The dirt road is usually muddy and wet during the spring but with the trucks and heavy equipment rolling over them it's much worse. Hopefully they will be done soon and the road will be graded to fill the ruts. Many people enjoy camping by the lake during the spring and summer. Right now it would be impossible to get a camper back there.<br />
<br />
Take Care,<br />
<br />
Ken SKen Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-10150321212396613722012-03-14T20:01:00.000-04:002012-03-14T20:01:00.326-04:00Houghton Lake HS: Legally Blonde the MusicalComing March 23-25, 2012 The Houghton Lake High School rendition of<br />
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<b><i><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: x-large;">Legally Blonde the Musical</span></i></b>
<br />
<br />
At the high school auditorium. Show times are Friday and Saturday at 7pm and a Sunday afternoon matinee at 2pm.<br />
<br />
Tickets will be sold on March 8,13,15,20 and 22 at the ticket office in the high school lobby.<br />
<br />
Tickets are $8.<br />
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So c'mon out and enjoy a great night at the theater while supporting the high school.<br />
<br />
Hope to see ya there,<br />
<br />
Ken SKen Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-53235335070257148962012-03-10T19:49:00.000-05:002012-03-10T19:49:28.021-05:00Houghton Lake Gun and Knife Shows: Mar 2012There are two gun and knife shows coming to Houghton Lake.<br />
<br />
On:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
March 17, 2012 Sat 9am-3pm<br />Houghton Lake Playhouse on M-55 Sat.<br />For more info call <u><i><b>989-798-8709</b></i></u></blockquote>
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<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
March 24 & 25, 2012 Sat 9-5 & Sun 9-3<br />Busy Bea Expo on M-55 (in the old Walmart building)<br />For more info and $1 off admission coupon <a href="http://www.migunshows.com/HoughtonPage.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;"><b><i>CLICK HERE!</i></b></span></a></blockquote>
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<br />Ken Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-63457847256334203102012-02-16T19:26:00.000-05:002012-02-16T19:26:22.463-05:00Harrison Frostbite Winter Festival 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If your like me by February you have a case of the "winter blues" with a large dose of cabin fever. I haven't been to the Harrison Frostbite Festival before, but after hearing about it on the radio I may have to check it out.</div>
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The theme is "Vegas" and many of the "events" are indoors. And the Lions Club is sponsoring the childrens events (indoors). There are, of course some outdoors contests</div>
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Outdoors includes; a golf tournament on Budd Lake and a fishing contest.</div>
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For more info <a href="http://harrisonchamber.com/events.html" target="_blank">click here.</a></div>
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Don't forget about the Higgins Lake-Roscommon Winterfest also this weekend Feb 17 & 18.</div>
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Hope to see you there,</div>
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Ken S</div>
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</div>Ken Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-38893893604124835432012-02-16T18:30:00.000-05:002012-02-16T18:30:56.733-05:00Higgins Lake-Roscommon Winterfest 2012 UpdateThe weather hasn't really been cooperating this year with unseasonably warm tempertures and below normal snow fall. But Mother Nature has given us a little bit of a break with a couple of inches of snow and up to 9 inches of reported ice thickness.<br />
<br />
The snow will help the Cardboard Classic Downhill race (sat 10:30-12) at Pioneer Hill. The Higgins Lake Fishing Derby (sat 9-3) is still on. As is the Ice Skating Rink by the Gerrish Twp Marina (all day fri and sat).<br />
<br />
Unfortunately the Snowmobile Radar Run has been cancelled due to unsafe ice conditions.<br />
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For more info <a href="http://www.hlrcc.com/" target="_blank">click here</a><br />
<br />
The many other events should be unaffected.<br />
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Lake City and Harrison also are having winter festivals this weekend.<br />
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<br />Ken Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-19755512442622697012012-01-31T19:38:00.000-05:002012-02-18T00:07:24.265-05:00Higgins Lake-Roscommon Winterfest 2012 Feb 17-18<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSFaKPsMHY_qrcTFhqYdkW8qEQWOD1vRq_fzgf9-q-gluPBVPEzhF_NRvvbMQ3g803ZTZq-yHbt8IQdIR2__p_j3Rka9CVDqp5G_l3phmt8YlpkJG-rLM8sV7A-ah8T1QYWc9uwUH0e7k/s1600/Higgins+Lake-Winter+2011+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSFaKPsMHY_qrcTFhqYdkW8qEQWOD1vRq_fzgf9-q-gluPBVPEzhF_NRvvbMQ3g803ZTZq-yHbt8IQdIR2__p_j3Rka9CVDqp5G_l3phmt8YlpkJG-rLM8sV7A-ah8T1QYWc9uwUH0e7k/s400/Higgins+Lake-Winter+2011+002.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Tip Up Town is over and the warm weather keeps on coming but the winter festivals remain undaunted. Next up is the Higgins Lake-Roscommon Winterfest 2012 featuring the Cardboard Klassic at Pioneer Hill. The only question is, will the weather cooperate?<br />
<br />
The warm temps ( a high of 48 degrees today) is taking it's toll on the lake ice and the small amount of snowfall this year. I have only seen a few anglers "brave" enough to go out on Higgins Lake and there may not be enough snow on Pioneer Hill for the Cardboard Klassic.<br />
<br />
This could also effect the Higgins Fishing Derby and the Snowmobile Radar Run. Both events are held at the North Higgins Lake State Park. Not to mention the Snowman contest.<br />
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The weatherman is predicting highs in the mid to upper thirties all this week. That still leaves 2 weeks until Feb. 17th, the first day of the festival. So keep your fingers crossed and pray for snow.<br />
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There's plenty to do so come on out and cure the cabin fever. Badges are $5 and help deffer the costs of the festival.
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<br />
For schedule of events and more info <a href="http://www.hlrcc.com/" target="_blank">click here</a>.<br />
<br />
Hope to See Ya There,<br />
<br />
Ken S<br />
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<br />Ken Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-12065676695216673952012-01-23T12:59:00.000-05:002012-01-23T12:59:44.383-05:00Tip Up Town 2012:Next Up...Polar Bear DipCertainly one of the most popular events at Tip Up Town is the Polar Bear Dip. Many people of all ages will stand in line for a couple of hours to take the plunge into the icy cold waters of Houghton Lake. Volunteers will work this week to cut the hole and check the ice thickness to be sure it will be safe for both "dippers" and observers.<br />
<br />
The plunge begins around 1pm on Saturday though some will start to line up a early as 10am to get registered and be first in line. Registration and $20 are required to take the dip. The $20 helps keep the Tip Up Town festival happening and participants receive a Polar Bear Dip sweatshirt. Sweatshirts are while supplies last (one of the reasons people arrive early for registration).<br />
<br />
The Polar Bear Dip is only a part of the fun. There are shows all weekend in both the family tent and the Adult (beer) tent. There are also many contests for both children and adults.<br />
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The first weekend of Tip Up Town USA 2012 was a great success although the numbers have not been reported as yet. Next weekend promises to be even better with milder temperatures in the forecast.<br />
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A $6 badge is still required for entry. If you have already purchased a 2012 badge you are good to go, badges are good for everyday of the festival and proceeds help pay for the festival.<br />
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So don't let "cabin fever" get you down this winter. Come to Houghton Lake and enjoy one of Michigans best festivals.<br />
<br />
Hope to see ya there,<br />
<br />
Ken SKen Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-63115181787970109702012-01-21T15:15:00.000-05:002012-01-21T15:15:40.943-05:00Tip Up Town USA 2012 Has A Cold Beginning<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Tip Up Town 2012" height="341" src="http://www.visithoughtonlake.com/images/tut-badge2012.jpg" width="400" />
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<br /></div>
Tip Up Town USA, Houghton Lake, MI.<br />
<br />
The festival began officially with the Grand Parade this morning at about 10 am with the temperature near 3 degrees. Although as of this writing the temp has risen to around 18 degrees, a Tip Up Town heat wave to be sure. Many are braving the cold on this sunny day. TUT is having a great turnout so far this the first weekend.<br />
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If you are coming to Tip Up Town this year the badges required for entry are $6. Parking and shuttle ride from the Houghton Lake High School to the Tip Up Town site is FREE. Let me say that again. Parking and shuttle rides between Tip Up Town and the Houghton Lake High School are FREE. Just look for the signs on the south side of M-55 next to the library. Badges are available at area merchants and at the Tip Up Town site.<br />
<br />
Tip Up Town USA 2012 hope to see you there,<br />
<br />
Ken S<br />
<br />
Tip Up Town is held at the south DNR boat launch off M-55 near the Pines Theater and Pineview Highlands Golf Course, from there, just follow the crowd (on foot). There is no parking at the TUT site.<br />
<br />Ken Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-22246169954035987852012-01-02T23:39:00.000-05:002012-01-02T23:39:00.160-05:00Will Tip Up Town USA Still Happen If The Lake Doesn't Freeze?<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Tip Up Town 2012" src="http://www.visithoughtonlake.com/images/tut-badge2012.jpg" />
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Due to the "mild" winter and above average temperatures there is serious concern the ice on the lake may not be thick enough to be safe and the lack of snow doesn't help either. But fear not, TUT will go on as planned although some events and attractions may have to be cancelled. Most of the TUT entertainment and events are not on the lake but in the parking lot of the DNR boat launch. Still TUT does require colder temps and snow to be successful.<br />
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The Ice Slide is waiting for some cold weather and snow but should be ready by the time TUT's first weekend rolls around. The always popular Polar Bear Dip should be a go (ice thickness permitting). As will most if not all events.<br />
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The average temperature for this time of year is around 18 degrees but not so this year. Temperatures have been in the mid 30's with only a couple of nights when the temps were in the single digits. The lake does have ice on it and should be thick enough to be safe by mid January, in time for the festival.<br />
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As for snow, Houghton Lake has had one of the lowest snow falls in recorded history for December. The Tip Up Town USA organizers and area merchants are hoping for snow. As the festival and snowmobilers brings much needed revenue to our area during the slowest time of the year.<br />
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So "Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow" See you at Tip Up Town USA.<br />
<br />
For more info on Tip Up Town USA <b style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;"><i><span style="color: #2b2b2b;"> </span><span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.visithoughtonlake.com/tiptuptown.html" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a></span></i></b><br />
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Stay warm,<br />
<br />
Ken SKen Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-16727076976090540452011-12-27T22:44:00.001-05:002011-12-30T16:38:35.369-05:00Houghton Lake Ice Report: Dec 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-44FSwGAbM_w/Tv4ukGE0RDI/AAAAAAAAAHc/IGIodEmpCbs/s1600/Winter+2011+023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-44FSwGAbM_w/Tv4ukGE0RDI/AAAAAAAAAHc/IGIodEmpCbs/s400/Winter+2011+023.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Houghton Lake Dec 26,2011 near Harveys Marina<br /></td></tr>
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So you want to know about the ice on Houghton Lake. Due to the incredibly mild winter so far the ice is a little behind on thickening enough to make it safe. Probably not what you wanted to hear. Falling through the ice will at best ruin a day of fishing, at worst become a tragedy that could have been avoided by waiting until the ice has reached a safe thickness. Every year there's someone either fishing or riding a snowmobile who goes through the ice.<br />
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I have seen some anxious fishermen out in the East Bay off of the shallows near Harvey's Marina. Some are reporting ice as thick as 4" in some spots, BUT that doesn't mean the ice is safe. Sun, wind and shifting currents beneath the ice can cause the ice to crack creating a hazardous condition. <br />
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Ice fishing can be fun and rewarding if you wait until the ice is thick enough and dress warm.<br />
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For information on the ice thickness check with:<br />
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DNR<br />
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Lymans on the Lake 989-422-3231<br />
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Korbinski's Marine 989-366-5306<br />
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Both Lymans & Korbinski's rent ice fishing shanties and won't put them on the ice until it's safe.<br />
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Stay safe,<br />
<br />
Ken SKen Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-89395186905759052112011-12-27T15:22:00.000-05:002011-12-30T17:06:23.951-05:00Tip Up Town USA 2012-Houghton Lake Ice Fishing Festival<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Tip Up Town 2012" src="http://www.visithoughtonlake.com/images/tut-badge2012.jpg" /></div>
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Tip Up Town USA is the largest winter festival in Michigan and one of the largest throughout the country. With many attractions, activities and contests to delight young and old. There's truly something for the whole family. Tip Up Town is Friday, Saturday & Sunday over two weekends. Fridays are Family Ice Skating and Hot Dogs and Entertainment in the Beverage Tent, with the bulk of the activities happening on Saturday and Sunday (for schedule of events see below).<br />
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Elections for Tip Up Town Mayor, Grand Marshall and TUT Queen will be held on January 7,2012 at the Houghton Lake High school gym. As always all are invited to come and enjoy the fun as "political parties" attempt to convince the electorate through speeches and a talent show, that they deserve the dubious distinction of being elected to the offices of Mayor and Grand Marshall.<br />
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Tip Up Town badges will be $6 again this year and may be purchased at many stores and shops around Houghton Lake or at the entrance to Tip Town at the south DNR boat launch. Badges grant entry into many of the attractions, shows and rides, although some do require an extra fee (click below for more info). The Grand Marshall will be checking for badges and all persons found at the festival without a badge will be placed in TUT jail until someone "bails" them out by purchasing a badge.<br />
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Parking is at the Houghton Lake High school with free shuttle service to and from the festival.<br />
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Tip Up Town USA, 2012. The most fun you can have on a frozen lake in the middle of winter. Hope to see you there.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><span style="color: #2b2b2b;">For more info</span><b><i><span style="color: #2b2b2b;"> </span><span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.visithoughtonlake.com/tiptuptown.html" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a></span></i></b></span></span></div>
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</td><td align="center" class="eventsnolink" colspan="2" style="color: #003366; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold;">FAMILY FUN TENT SCHEDULE<br />
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<tr><td align="left" class="maintext" colspan="4" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">Saturday, January 21</td><td align="left" class="maintext" colspan="2" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top"><span class="maintext">Saturday, January 21</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top" width="5%">NOON<br />
1:00pm<br />
2:00pm<br />
3:00pm<br />
4:00pm</td><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top" width="20%">Medallion Hunt<br />
Egg Toss<br />
Cracker Whistle<br />
Pie Eating Contest<br />
Tug-of-War</td><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top" width="5%">12:30<br />
1:30pm<br />
2:30pm<br />
3:30pm</td><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top" width="20%">Tire Roll<br />
Redneck Golf<br />
Bubblegum/Hula Hoop<br />
Make a Head of Hair</td><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top" width="10%">NOON<br />
12:30-1:30<br />
1:30-2:30<br />
2:30-3:30<br />
3:30-4:30<br />
4:30-5:30</td><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top" width="40%">Opening Ceremony<br />
Peanut Butter ‘N Jams<br />
Fun & Games With Diversity Entertainment<br />
Doggie Show<br />
Carrie Westbay<br />
Fun & Games with Diversity Entertainment</td></tr>
<tr><td align="left" class="maintext" colspan="4" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">Sunday, January 22</td><td align="left" class="maintext" colspan="2" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">Sunday, January 22</td></tr>
<tr><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">NOON<br />
1:00pm<br />
2:00pm<br />
3:00pm<br />
4:00pm</td><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">Medallion Hunt<br />
Egg Toss<br />
Cracker Whistle<br />
Pie Eating Contest<br />
Tug-of-War</td><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">12:30<br />
1:30pm<br />
2:30pm<br />
3:30pm</td><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">Tire Roll<br />
Redneck Golf<br />
Bubblegum/Hula Hoop<br />
Make a Head of Hair</td><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">10:00-11:00<br />
12:00-1:00<br />
1:00-2:00<br />
2:00-3:00<br />
3:00-4:00<br />
4:00</td><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">Church Service<br />
Fun & Games with Diversity Entertainment<br />
Tom McDermott, Guitarist<br />
Fun & Games with Diversity Entertainment<br />
Joel Tacey, Tip Top Entertainment<br />
Grand Prize Drawing</td></tr>
<tr><td align="left" class="maintext" colspan="4" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">Saturday, January 28</td><td align="left" class="maintext" colspan="2" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">Saturday, January 28</td></tr>
<tr><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">NOON<br />
1:00pm<br />
2:00pm<br />
3:00pm<br />
4:00pm</td><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">Medallion Hunt<br />
Egg Toss<br />
Cracker Whistle/Bubblegum<br />
Pie Eating Contest<br />
Tug-of-War</td><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">12:30<br />
1:30pm<br />
2:30pm<br />
<br />
3:30pm</td><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">Tire Roll<br />
Redneck Golf<br />
Brother of the Bush/Most Badges<br />
Make a Head of Hair</td><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">12:00-1:00<br />
1:00-2:00<br />
2:00-2:30<br />
2:30-3:30<br />
3:30-4:00<br />
4:00-5:00<br />
5:00-5:30</td><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">Fun & Games with Diversity Entertainment<br />
Mean Mary, Banjo Artist<br />
Fun & Games With Diversity Entertainment<br />
Acting Up Theatre Company<br />
Fun & Games With Diversity Entertainment<br />
Carrie Westbay, Singer<br />
Fun & Games With Diversity Entertainment</td></tr>
<tr><td align="left" class="maintext" colspan="4" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">Sunday, January 29</td><td align="left" class="maintext" colspan="2" style="color: black; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">Sunday, January 29</td></tr>
<tr><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">NOON<br />
1:00pm<br />
2:00pm<br />
3:00pm<br />
4:00pm</td><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">Medallion Hunt<br />
Egg Toss<br />
Cracker Whistle<br />
Pie Eating Contest<br />
Tug-of-War</td><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">12:30<br />
1:30pm<br />
2:30pm<br />
3:30pm</td><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">Tire Roll<br />
Redneck Golf<br />
Bubblegum/Hula Hoop<br />
Make a Head of Hair</td><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">10:00-11:00<br />
12:00-1:00<br />
1:00-2:00<br />
2:00-4:00<br />
4:00</td><td align="left" class="maintextlight" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" valign="top">Church Service<br />
Fun & Games with Diversity Entertainment<br />
A.R.K.<br />
Fun & Games with Diversity Entertainment<br />
Grand Prize Drawing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Ken Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-48841347051364127132011-10-07T11:41:00.000-04:002011-10-07T11:41:03.471-04:00Houghton Lake Gun & Knife Show Oct. 8Just a quick note. There's a Gun and Knife Show scheduled for Sat, Oct 8 at the Playhouse on M55 in Houghton Lake. Listed hours are 9-4. This is a one day show.<br />
<br />
See ya there,<br />
<br />
K StephensonKen Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-43186253803368965812011-07-23T15:57:00.002-04:002011-07-23T15:59:00.087-04:00Bud Bash the "Jobbie Nooner" of the North<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-size: large;">Love it or hate it here comes<br />
Bud Bash 2011</span><br />
<img height="239" src="http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRqa4aX8CrokG2a7O9O8n1utIrxHBqyr4We_zEvCfYxK319UK7GGQ" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bud Bash, Houghton Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Bud Bash in Houghton Lake, MI has been thought of by many as the "Jobbie Nooner" of the north. While the Jobbie Nooner (held on Gull Island, Lake St Clair), is in the early part of summer when the temperatures are milder, Bud Bash is held in August, during the hottest days of summer. A time when tourism seems to slow in Houghton Lake as people go on vacation to other parts.<br />
<br />
So it was that the owner of the Limberlost bar and grill decided to hold a "party" that would increase business during this down time. And Bud Bash was born.<br />
<br />
Some of the locals are not as enthusiastic about the celebration as the others who come here looking for a good time in the sun and water. Drunkenness and public nudity are often sited by local authorities although the number of incidents have fallen the last few years. Possibly due to the extra law enforcement officers patrolling during the festivities. </div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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509XalV2qCjRqe7TzVqELFkdzTgRJH5hd8nXPxJ6VV2jfw7hWSS1N7Flkki4EdQU/ykkSMcazf4llSxKtSxgC9OSq38GVm1uBDeI76r3sg3i2mG22xqVDFNGcjkKpY8x2HnTdXa0gilHYtw9N0hlOZgiVKyB85yMHQ/4FrQ1jWT0sUIU/QkR/U6Z2dBSeosMYgDn7kam2FIulJBYVVh5uVSs4/LbyPgj99au13Bk46GOaYLCn9bVbJ7/XVqvqFSqEWtVJVMAlQbZjgKB/KB9tC3G4h5SFjgpco+oliwn66k3ZZJIZr0PbcqcRHKlYBAOQwu486puaipeJUnHUrRP0BAL/TEaUAumbTgk3EdvFxyf3OkqtWTifmYAH0gyfqY0tFoOxobkzE98nz/AFIj6f10zQpnknWbTpMTgTrVpUoA7aVl0eV/E+1IZWNx5nJt8gCe8z37DGvP7zfwQBjA4H+4H+o19G3fpi1YvFwGQJIE55g5514z1/8ACbhy1OSg8CWj+WOSfnXM4XK2aSvZjV696xxPAHxpRFM4njOn6PoNc1CntVZABMIcA8E9o1pD8N7m2GoMBHkftj+w86zqImLPPVd0Yj/Dom33Dd8/5xrfo/gDcsC3s1FHgo+fpCH+uvRbf8CUEpBmR2JGS4ekJAyFDBf6z9dbKLVDx42zxqbgWO04UgHOe3H+dtA3A9xAVaJ7fv416X1f8H9Kjb0Xl2ljdNIIOSSR0nvE8TjWH6aHAtDKQ7xJBstgG5pGFJj550uKW0ZwadBf/DudupZHKHKtETicfvzra2Pp6LTVqjFFiFUZYxgfTPede69H/Czq9wqkqygGlzTBiOme0Cc9vrqfiL8CmoVZegiARBZCM8eOfvP30lsthSPAFlY9INg/SznP1tj++tH0z1aiGVDt6QVZgIbSJBkkvN4zwTMgR41sj/08YKZqgfSmY++dYXrnoNTbciU7OAIJiJkcffRWwKLuz0HqO9f2bNslRCQDTcIfy56ZiF5P1j5wpsq++JBasB/87TmO8KSWx4+p41mfh+t7xZKnuQqli3vMqgTxCZMmMfGvVemCl7Qcs5UG1KZveCSSGIzcxhjbjJAHA0ygxq9ZmPcpIE1yCbiVHflQ1uBk8ZE4Ot3Z+lIUvqraCAQCxIgsV7i5SCRmPJMCNKVfUGDW7cyCVZUXpsZcugZxBBtgDqMmAexBXrMalSsH9qrRIWFRjLFuTIKKWa64EkFge2rx4/okuXX8mi3pp/iqVWkjVrXemwDCZKCCtyWwv5hFxkme0d9Ioin6sGfPuK9rAgIBMY/3QhxjOLTInM2W0q7gsz1LQSP9Su0RV6T09UAkcExIxyI138W7mmzIlOrVqlVOSqJSj+amsAEMO656QASJiyXhDK9s4/rS7n3qPuDb7eGFJGZFCwWdRUvJIW6FFhxjgCNeRXpYMJDDggkMO/IMgg/tGtX0arTp7hiWAAD+1Vz0sJtaMiT2kGDB7a7+LfVk3G5vQWgKqSSIYqDLYAwTx9pjMUXwjN6sr6z+JTuaSLUTrUAXAgLAklgDkVHY9R4IHBOQlt/SHrU3q3IqU1IGAJsWYhQInHU3JPJydJUa6z1gxBi2JujpmeRPPePpldyP8Grxi1pHDOak7ezcswASSBxJJA+gJxrU220xCU1rNEm01JXsJXpmCZkTxnGs1qmpX3adNshhzc6mT2Kwqle/cn5xmNl0M0nZSYawwcyVJHjAnOpQq4kgFZg5AP0HcY7xj4xrPrVWIuJLSYktJnwZM/voKsxPYf30tjqJsvXAUgFeoZ4Yx4yJB/Y6C8wpIAEQIAEweTGSfk50io1adI2Wjo0ae4CkCTnjBP7+B9dEO/6o7eeY/wC9IKRbMmZ4jEeZn/jV6STOVECerv8AAgHP10vZUe/jT1AZ8EiMfSTB/fRKN0DqXIzg3LnueM+M/bWfScSJkCeQJIHwCRP7jRRVZG8HH7GCJAPMEGNZqwWehRgZEADjBgHmcScaYSkDAIGMcWx/9Yzxz41j7OqxcAZJxAHOn23ACxOe4wBH76g4FFMLV2tP+UfQzBPzn/rS/twQwZww46m74GCedUq7+AIBPyMySeY7Y/tpPdVgSbuoHEYiO/zrYhzYSt6nWdSGqXhsG8Ag4PcQcz99KbGnRouHG1pyJELUYKZ8gyDqrV4/KYkEER2x8R+xnHbXKp/KZBlRgfpAlQGxzAnv+bzo4IOTPRemeo0MDFNo/LJCzJxkxP0I5GtFt1VSiHw08RcCD2WV/NmcwpxrxFaiSAeQZjvxg47Djnzq9Dd1EVhcbSsROIkR9u2I+vOkfGvCimn2e02vqoqiCylo6kmSp+hAP2IGhb7eU6ay7qFPZiDnxB5/415vY+oloDUw1v6+GljAVmaRz+qRwRxxfdvsmMFmSsfzI5hSSclZMCZmFxPjIKuLQ130aFD02ndfQWmC0gspwwIMrC8fbjn41l+mXUGNN3FjZKsodXAzb5OZiYgnR1/DtlJqlByODl4vJi23vx9YAOdKem/h6vVMhMwD1ArdK3CJByRjvp1ZvNmzvmb21Q0kq0x1PTUlSwYm1lKk3KQJ8huRxPl6NZL6cooUEXhnexsseq1SVAU24BOCe8a9vv8AdNtUkm+2mUgqqnMEFiJCuGGFhp5xIOvPrtaI2LO1RfcOLGoqKgcnBDXB7TaYIwJMzjXRFtrZyzSvRu7r0ekylFX3VNN3ouS7sqgqgp0zTmVNyEQRm6RwB5Ch6nuF3FJGqAPRYqgrkFKZ4IN+AAQOcAgRGvWfgar/ABNM0WqPT9uBKMFJVjCjIaSOrEZvBnAOsT0v07ZJuq38ZuA9RHNoJYo0clnPNSeFYgA5M4GniRm+qMz1j1M1FJdgartc4WjTVAsC0KyyTODIjBj645BcgC0GPIWfqSYn9tM+s7um9eq1JVCM5KWqVFpJMFTwc5gDI+dK7XdIjE1KfuC1gBeV6o6SSMwD276tFfDm5ORM9F6HvNpUonbVUp0HZINVouZxJDK5X/TggSpOZwYFusb1r8LVtsivUNMqxhStQEk54XDQIzjEidZLPOjNufca6szsQsDOcDpEmYX7asotO/DmfJGUaa34am33hQ4CGcdaKw/qMfURqbjeNTDUqVcsjj/UCXBD8dYF2O8DQK9UuxZiJOTAAE/QYH20NBrks7lE7SpRo4Oqasp0jK0WI1weDxqTqDWs1BHZZNoIHYEgkD5IAH7CNEeMQ0kjOCIM8Z5+o0G7EQB9sn66NTZWdZK0wAJMFuAcxyST47nQsdDNPaGxSVK3kWuxtQjIPIg5g3TgA+dOrsVQqr1KIR2/9wG4hR+qMMFJzkAmPBzm+n1UDTUA/KRJDG0/ApkFj4BYLOT41xLwt4BAyAxU2yQRzEExPef2xhRqjhsdS8tH9eRj9v8ArRzuCHkYzIgzHBwYAP14xpWooJJp3lFCzcCbcCZ7AX3Rxq6uSshJUGWIDfJi7IHST2B7mYEBhGN1vJJILGcktAMmSSbTHOdKNuMGRnEEYAGQZGZJxmex+3UqhsNKoLj0rcQxXAB5P5ZgkcMdAQMYVZYn9IBOe2O5if8ADoBWgxYkC4MWIFuZgCRxGciBwMHnRzaqMQcFgFJtFQFQGyJwuYuU8qNCWnK0mCBBcVNRsozzdJEGIRkkQZAmDqyI4rn2rqjIS0imQTxJKN2kxEcHjwBrBSYwxE4IDRPDANBys5ziRrlVbTh1bLDpJ7YnIGDJg+AfuT+DZKirUBpZAuZMAkEqD27cdsyMHU3NxIUgNULEdDCCJAFKFECGkhhOGXxopGUgTEWmDORhkExBM9wBPacyMY0aiL7P9IMqAh56lYBewqSoe0EgDk/YaJtwigtXQhgAEpkFVqLLI3UBNyt+ofykwYt1ynUDBX/00pBgTTZ7kLAjLrdeqsuCygjHYHBr6bKiej7ge/bTpLBmERbSxmVMEnPxIx3xJZ23qVao4wGCqFe9YRAH6FYgg/pjHc4BIEd2u4LijTorSRnEkPkl0IItJUSrkAgFmFykykTparujtzWp1zU96oRc461q0jEiblJuE5Ysp4NpzoqKBKbe2MGntUKPW3LbmAxFNUghrsrUDnpDRlQQcz86X9a9Wq7gUg1P26fFIAEiTAIV3zBx0zAxjV936+am6p1f4dWlWRKdh9t0hgCpe4yGJ6Y6bQAdLj16nSqM67YUayuCFmUVgTIhgHUgFog5JHZRplFknJes9TWoU/S9zTqClV9plKO5gxUuBXL9AgjkEctHEnwf4iqo24qFUVZdj0VFdCDBEWYHeQD3A7ZJ6xv33NQ1qgPUTbM2Qv6AcSFBAgcT2nSHpux957L1Qwbbyephm0EDBiTmBg/TVYKts5uWbl/KRXZuiupqKXpg9Sq9jHGIaDGfjRfVqm2Mfw6V0M5FRkZfi0r1D7zpOqYJEgweRlT8jyNDq1LjMAfQQP2GuiMfTjctYldVJ1NVnVkhDYI1EGoNH2m1ao1qCWM9wOPliB/XXlnspAm1NRxBIPIJBzOQY7YOuFtAJYHVvt/1/wDvVUUkgASSYA8nVqwZTawgjtj65jv/AF0OzWG3O7v/AE01+ES0f3J1f32NK0soRWkL0hmb4gXsQDyTAH7aVRSSAMkkAADJJwAPJ1zvBweI+dGhbDCkbboNslbu10SVnzBBj50dWdqZlmsSMFzaC0gAKTEmDwOx0uarQFJNqliF7AmA33Nq/sNdqWwsEkxnpgD4BnP7Rxz2xqDKZBGYAJgAnIxMTA5i48T9jenXimwvceEE2mcEt1ADEDgk65U3zWkB1UVIvpoto6SQoIH5hHVExnOdF2m6KUXPs03DMFFRwxKtE2rBAmCG7EROgMUa5WZS3tyIfsAMGGCj6dP0GhU7hLLIt5IMEXSvI85Gr0Kljr7gvV7S4BVnKlgxgz0uY7kHqzzq+6UO1VqSmlSWOhqkmSYC/wC4zJA7BT40BrKmooWADd0kMCRae4gYI8HBBntjUptBWypDMDcSxUIbuCxIBJgH6nudVpbJzU9uAr+HISMT1XkRgzHOnDsq1XcezdTDhFTFRBTsVQIuBIOMmJMz34KA2cpbKrVNaNwpKqbyarG9QC0zHUmIk4BIGJzmUaohpDZAiCB/9sSfoO/jT2/3wLVL6FJX/JKEhEIbJAUkFoAAMxEnqnD3pHp9GrRCJubNxVlDTZOkrIIEk8lgsEZkQBONMYFu94XLmtVTcWrTAqSSxAJIppdackm5rZAB85VCbi5NwiWe47CkyABQwBBVAZiACBOfqdF9P/CFev7nt2v7bFCQSQSObSFz2Ofj4lLYUR71MU6jUyLb3IMU6lxXt+m4osnHVkxoiSs0B6pRrUlp1EZKwNqVVrFU6jBNX3CSqz1MQTyfy50tu/WBV9w7gNuWVbKVW4qqiTDtgM84IDEcnmdJepOoLi81Kgcn3AZWoDzM5DA9xIMnwCWPTPUNxtENQUwaO5R0ioCUcTa0Qwzgie/2kMkTlLxgdsr1KAWlRql6bF/cpFyCPLKJh1kQ6xgwRwdKeoe5ePccVGtUXCotTAFqgspOQABkzjRqPrlekFsqshCwpW28KCf1RcPHMwFHAGg+m0qdSrFesaSkE32Fzd2EAzkySf8AnVEqOeUk9LsFV3jEKGZiEEKCSQqzMKOwkzo+x9eekoUJSKw0g01lyQwDOxBLWzgcY++heqbWmhApV1rAiTCOpU91Nwz3yCftoXqXqDVqjVGgEwAFEKqqoVVUSYAUAcnVIxRCUnF97Ae0bQ0G2YugwTHE8E/HOiHZn2hUlYLlAJ6iQAxMfy5AnydTceo1Kior1GZaYtpqT0qPAHH350sTqysm6CpVUI6lAWYra8npAJuAHBuxntHzoGodMen7paZdmQPNN1UN+UMy2hyO9oJI+QNP0Fb7Hp1C2hzqpbXlnrWGB1J1wMoUzcW7AQAOIJOSe4tAHm4cEatoBsNrqjVRoijRAXp1SuVJUwRIMGDgj7jxpnab+pTpuqgWPgk01OY/SxWVYDiDjkRzpTTIrXUyHdyUCikuSolur4UAeMksPB0DHER6ghVkIpJhQIWZLM31PLHwB41REBBNyiIgGbmnxAPHeSO2qVaZBIYEEHIIyD8g8HXXtsEElzMi2AoHGZ6ifGAIGSTAAyQT+KPt+3i2684zIUqBP8sEmPJnxqUHE5UvzatxAuIgHAJPbAgmAJ1WlU6wVAHUIDQwGcXFgAw8kiPI1x4vMvcLjLgTInLAG2Z5HH20DUM7/wBMq7dlFVDTZlDqDExPODgyND3tZDVmneRglqkXs5yzGCQJOYB/tOhV6tzEi4zwWNzRAAkj6YHYQNWqbiXuVQkRAGQIAE5GSeZ8nRAG3KoUVgXLmTUL2wSc9IksY7s3JPaMl3G22/8ADoyOfdkiojAROItA7RPUTmDwdE9f2temVFe2GBZbVRQRABMIqniMEY0iKQSpZWV0jDCIZT2JDA47xydFAYajU900aTlKaBgtwUCAz5Zzy0BjBOAOIk6W9XWmKzrRN1IEhCf1KMXHjnJ4H0Gj7rZhaqqG6XtKOwKixiYY3AYjvHY6v6fu9uiV/epNVYgCiymFDi8yxMYPQY5IBxyNEwh/EGnBpVHEgTaWUgyMdJg5VTI/2+NcrUmSmQXg3ddE3KykA2llYAHBMHMT2nT3r/rFF6iPtqTUAkmSwLE3Aq09iI7k8+NO+p+jb7cUf4qtBCooAaEeyTmIA+ZJzdjTJE29sGPwZvKUVTt0qBbmKlldSoEkkK2RHGQZ4zrzm4qySVFo/SLiQoMkAXEmNW227emwem7IwmCGIiRB+Mg65ttxZdgG5GTPaREj5EaqonNPkT0h31NdqVU0HqhsXJUWe2WDr084jvM441mgY0TaVVVpdLxGFLFRPzbkjnAI7Z7am43N7EwFngKIUfAHjTpEJST2AI12nTuJiMAnJjAE9+/xqp1zVUROE6qdQ64dUGSOHU056zu0q13emtiEi1bQsAKB+UEgHHYnSR0V0M1TNE6g1BrtuvLPTomroo7n6Y/yNcA1bWCWB1YNoa8/GmN5XVqrsiWIWJRJm1ZwJ7kDvoDUU10HVJ12dAI7W399MhlBqNVNRquLiCsWY7XdX/GlJ12qVxaG+SxBJP0AgD4k/XRduEtYutQgFepWAAzJDXIw6gCBkEQSJ7AJVEBViWAIiFg3NPiMAAZJJ8RPbuz3bU3DrFwm0kTaSIuA/mHIngxjQZ03uNzTKBUohDiXNRnYkTMdKqoPMQdYxUe2aZMsKgtgcq0lrzMSpAswZmW1Sq6WJaGDANeSRBNxi2MgWxM99V2+7sa5bSQDEgMBIiYOCRJiZzq26rISntraAiBp71AOpvoT/bTCsY3m+rpWBqs3u0uke5DFSJIBDSCQWnM5OdKVmUqrXEuS3uA9si0g95BPzIPxp70v1v26tSpUQVzUVg155ZiCWmDnnt3+NZS0yTgEwOw7AZOiBj6UGrvt6FJy5ZYVX6QjsSXUdolQRHM+Z0b1n03c7GaNU2rVWSqPcjgGPpIMfIxpfYspZJtoEHprj3MOsMJAJEzbkflmSCNIb+oxc3veQSLr7wc/pMwV8RiNMkTlKlZofhj1qjQ3KPXpF0DAysFlIngNgjIOIYQI7g6X4r/9Qq28Q0wq06J/SMkgGQSSMH6eYzA155fUX9hqBtamXDrI6kcYJQzi4YIMg+JzpU6pirIS5Wo0hqltUamp95BUZgoplWFoJi53IsUd++hb+giPalVaoAEsgYLPcC8AtHmIOlmGpqqRyuSa6Oa4TrV2Prq0aLKlCkarFprVBeQpiAiMLVYZ6s88ayNNGwSS1TOtr2+59T9Np+m2JSvq1VwCR79OouCajBcIGyIPUIEATrzmz/C26qkhKFTpT3CWW0BMw0vAgwY8wdZBONGlL0rBuHa7LMNUnWj63vKTtSFBCqpSRTd+ZqgBLsYMZY8+BrN1WLtE2qOamprhOmCaWrDU1NeUeodnVgdc1NYJaNdA1NTSjHdFo7Zn/KpPAOMAkwoJ4BJwPJwNc1NZGBg6Kd01gSegEtH+6IknvAECeM+TqamsA5UpsphgVOMMCDByMHPGu0qtrBgAYMwwDL9wcEfB1NTWCM+o0qjoNxUI/wBRio4DNaBJCqB0L0rMDkaDVr0vZVUpv7nLuzDnPTTVf08fmJM9hqammJt7G2rUqFSpTFm4RqdrtgC+JupPBMK/DfqAM4IIX9HoVjUuoLdUpw1uCWEwQEOag5kAHHOpqaEnSN26E09cqik9GR7bkm0opCyQ3RIlMgflI40oW1NTVkjlnJ0cLaoW1NTVUcsmc1w6mpp/BC1arJmAOMKIGBE/U86Y9H3Qp7inUIpkIS0VQTTMAkBgoJMnA+Y1NTRrVDwe7PrvpP4m2lVHrtVgVKeUr1VIX2woZPbkmBhieomSO8a+Oeqbv3a9WoDId2YG23BJI6QTaIjpkxxqamp8Kps7P+iTcUKnXDqamulHGcJ1U6mpphkf/9k=" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jobbie Nooner at Gull Island, Lake St Clair</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;">The partying was somewhat subdued at Gull Island on Lake St Clair this year as thousands braved the 70 degree temperatures and constant drizzle to attended the annual Jobbie Nooner. Estimates of 7000 to 10,000 people braved the chilly temperatures and the all day drizzle.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">This years Bud Bash is August 6th. Though many celebrate over the whole weekend. Motel accommodations fill up fast so reserve early.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Stay safe and have fun,</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Ken S</div></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div></div>Ken Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-63670924711810797062011-07-17T01:35:00.002-04:002011-07-17T01:41:12.645-04:00Fishing the Cut River Part 2: Rock Bass<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">.</div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0np-7UFYEp-v92eoojnXRHOxigRz4ll5kP1PRag95NXkQYapxejI4uVEOvdqGISa8lx1GHJnWYzA2ujCvtlQdpyvTKRGxn1aALq2f3UFs1_9Gx_4kuvkxHvbkc8ozN9Ylk82qQAhc0GQ/s1600/Cut+River+Fishing+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0np-7UFYEp-v92eoojnXRHOxigRz4ll5kP1PRag95NXkQYapxejI4uVEOvdqGISa8lx1GHJnWYzA2ujCvtlQdpyvTKRGxn1aALq2f3UFs1_9Gx_4kuvkxHvbkc8ozN9Ylk82qQAhc0GQ/s400/Cut+River+Fishing+002.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scenic Cut River North of Lansing Rd Bridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table></div>Most of the time I fish alone, primarily because I fish almost everyday. I enjoy the solitude it helps me to forget my cares for awhile. I'm not on a quest to capture the great white whale or the big green walleye or monster bass (although I am happy to catch one occasionally). I just like to relax.<br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Sometimes I have the pleasure of fishing with a friend or family member and this weekend was one such occasion. My nephew and his family were dropping off my brothers motor home after spending the week camping over near Oscoda. Since they were spending the night we all went to dinner at a very crowded Freds of Roscommon and with about 2 hours of daylight left we thought we'd try to catch a few.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>My brother Bill stayed home (he prefers to fish from a boat) with my nephews oldest daughter Sarah (she wanted to Facebook with her friends) but my sister-in-law Cheryl came with us. So we were Dan, Jess, Katie and Ryan, Cheryl (just an observer) and myself. Five of us fishing on the Cut River off the Lansing road bridge.<br />
<br />
We turned east on scenic Lansing Road. As we left the asphalt I slowed for a doe and her two spotted fawns that were slowly crossing the road. These were the first fawns I have seen this year and they were already getting big. Unfortunately they scampered into the woods before I could get my camera out for a picture.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnu4pveY4Gu7ZYItlp_m2iaPa6WEGE2WgKiUSwR7ZRD8sfv7_thjrQ9C1i1m3WP0boqbimtY9l3PqOP8NJpPxGiPDN5opV7in2rI3DUtCCwvlp2brCRPfiZ_1fFYzciuajm5VE_EGA4gQ/s1600/Cut+River+Fishing+020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnu4pveY4Gu7ZYItlp_m2iaPa6WEGE2WgKiUSwR7ZRD8sfv7_thjrQ9C1i1m3WP0boqbimtY9l3PqOP8NJpPxGiPDN5opV7in2rI3DUtCCwvlp2brCRPfiZ_1fFYzciuajm5VE_EGA4gQ/s320/Cut+River+Fishing+020.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Katie catches Rock Bass...Priceless</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
</div>There was another fisherman there when we arrived. After about 10 minutes he left and we had the bridge to ourselves. I started fishing off the north side but soon decided that 5 of us on the same side was at least one too many so I switched. Now I know there are fish on each side of the bridge that's why I brought them there. Still by the time I had caught my fourth fish everyone was on the south side. So I switched back to the north side.<br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBK27kKnzMl1pgpNDrYTjz-Yw3V5tZ6V8z2m5ByX-y22UaEgUmI-A20upCiP1bkytdw4kqjHOjapL0mAipGusjomfczsR-UbdNOg1SmhDJY1dTesY2on1n_3_tuYhPIwuMUqQDZcTzeJI/s1600/Cut+River+Fishing+028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBK27kKnzMl1pgpNDrYTjz-Yw3V5tZ6V8z2m5ByX-y22UaEgUmI-A20upCiP1bkytdw4kqjHOjapL0mAipGusjomfczsR-UbdNOg1SmhDJY1dTesY2on1n_3_tuYhPIwuMUqQDZcTzeJI/s320/Cut+River+Fishing+028.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ryan catches the biggest Rock Bass</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Fishing the north side is a little more tedious because your casting into the current coming at you. You have to keep your line tight or you'll try to set the hook and get nothing but air (believe me I'm a pro at catching air) and you recast often. If you like casting this is the way to go.<br />
<br />
After awhile everyone caught at least a couple, mostly Rock bass, a few Perch and one we don't know what type of fish it was. I believe Ryan caught the biggest but Katie had the biggest "one that got away". We saw a doe with two fawns, another deer, a rabbit, a snake and a chipmunk (that was probably running from the snake). A bat flew over head but I think I'm the only one who saw it.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtSOk4YnRmKsjSiH40NzrPNTMq6n7sDiqySVzVwTsDnjaQd7sM1_K6L_UnkHki8NaYKngft-OaPaV9cr3kkpgBu9O0l6xanXI_R38O5yHZOdtKPArlitR7FR78Ol-YFPNCiXJS8jItyDU/s1600/Cut+River+Fishing+030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtSOk4YnRmKsjSiH40NzrPNTMq6n7sDiqySVzVwTsDnjaQd7sM1_K6L_UnkHki8NaYKngft-OaPaV9cr3kkpgBu9O0l6xanXI_R38O5yHZOdtKPArlitR7FR78Ol-YFPNCiXJS8jItyDU/s320/Cut+River+Fishing+030.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dan & Cheryl looking for <br />
the bobber in the tree</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Cheryl (my sister-in-law) at Katies insistence had try at least one cast. It was a magnificent looping cast that went right into a tree. The bobber will be hanging like a red and white Christmas ornament for generations to come. Eventually darkness and the mosquitoes won out and we packed up and I came home.<br />
<br />
Although I enjoy the solitude of fishing alone in a secluded spot nothing can replace putting a worm on the hook for a young angler or taking the fish off for them. Watching them reel in a few even if they're small. I believe in keeping the experience as fun as possible if we're going to keep the tradition alive and passed down to the next generation. One thing I know for sure is that the next generation will be able to look up into the tree by the river and know that my sister-in-law had been there and needed to work on her aim when casting.<br />
<br />
All in all it was a great experience and a lot of fun. So take a family member or a friend fishing and don't forget the<b> FUN<i>. </i></b><br />
<b><i><br />
</i></b><br />
<b><i>Until next time,</i></b><br />
<b><i><br />
</i></b><br />
<b><i>Ken S</i></b><br />
<b><i><br />
</i></b><br />
PS Pictures were taken by Jess and as you can see it was light out still when we started and dusk when we started catching the fish.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQ5Hge6r8iAxB3Hlw-4ZEzuVWkx-Ry0IsKTlIxwQ_ZPEgUXKp1o" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Rock Bass)<br />
<i><b>"Thank You Houghton Lake...We Love You"</b></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Ken Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-10280207290612300782011-07-15T11:58:00.001-04:002011-07-17T01:43:42.409-04:00He stole my bait!<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTn9az6Xpr3mUefbaB429bvYc7WUn4yw_jgw3MXDWh8YXCODjEk" /><img src="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcR1YeeL610WzO-5P5PZHNxFGu-NqEDo2YOLczum6d5y_V_6kGhZ" /></div><br />
That's him officer. The one on the left. He stole from me repeatedly. Every spot I tried, he was there. Sometimes taunting me by popping his head up next to my bobber just defying me to try again. HE STOLE MY BAIT!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">Children find turtles to be cute and fun to catch but I beg to differ. At least on the second part. Catching a turtle can be a real pain in the hook. Usually they just get the bait and then wait for more. Sometimes I get the hook in them and get them to the shore. Once there I slacken the line and the turtle can use its front feet to dislodge the hook, then go back and wait for more bait. But once in awhile the hook goes all the way through then the trouble begins.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">A midst the cursing of my bad luck and fishing through my tackle box for my needle nose pliers, I prepare myself for the difficult task of removing the hook from a mouth pulled inside a shell. I feel sorry for the turtle as this is unfair punishment for something as petty as stealing a piece of night crawler. Yet I believe that leaving the hook in would be a death sentence for the turtle. So a few seconds of prying and the perpetrator goes free albeit with a sore mouth. And I end up with an unusable jighead. Just another day of pond fishing.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHClcqWMhhBIU8dzenfjWUmMUqixbEKRgp8QtxU9NFseqlA18r1IEEO7dK3j0c5saK1S1wCtLWg1k0d5yNaimPEBFWlDb_jt5NCi_tLFuQBfmkZyuOc4GrpSeZ9LYMyTFeT_kF00HVFxM/s1600/Jighead+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHClcqWMhhBIU8dzenfjWUmMUqixbEKRgp8QtxU9NFseqlA18r1IEEO7dK3j0c5saK1S1wCtLWg1k0d5yNaimPEBFWlDb_jt5NCi_tLFuQBfmkZyuOc4GrpSeZ9LYMyTFeT_kF00HVFxM/s320/Jighead+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brand new jighead after removed from turtle</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;">So the next time your sitting by the shore of your favorite fishing hole and your bobber is bouncing up and down and swimming around and you can't seem to set the hook. It may be a turtle. You need to ask yourself, "Do you feel lucky?" If not maybe you should try another fishing spot or get the pliers ready. Either way you could be in for a frustrating day. Unless you like turtle soup.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Good luck and be safe,</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Ken S</div>Ken Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-53230965161894556312011-07-13T23:26:00.000-04:002011-07-13T23:26:28.708-04:00Ausable River Canoe Marathon Race 2011-Grayling Michigan<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">64th Annual Ausable River </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">Canoe Marathon</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-size: large;">July 26-31, 2011</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-size: large;"><img src="http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQZmSGRFlu1jC7I_vz-ehFmB2kM_Ljox8-jBWjavaeDYocg9WLGv5mNzqU" /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-size: large;"></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">The longest professional canoe marathon race in the world. A grueling 120 miles from Grayling to Oscoda. There are several days with various events leading up to the race. The actual race begins at 9pm on Friday, July 29. The racers pick up their canoe and sprint 3 blocks to the river and jockey to get their canoe in the water for the 14-15 hour marathon race to Oscoda. A true test of endurance. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQBQXHlLarzgKMRZqeyBDdzbtHDrzMFnkizY0X8a8xU51fxLbA9" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start of Race</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;">Then there's the Mio Dam where racers carry their canoe up and down a hill, 1/4 mile to the other side of the dam. The first racers will reach the dam at 1am, others, not until dawn. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="212" src="http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSqLx3LrajcD_m_8XKjrXTBNJOYkvomNubpCDHrnTn2fQQFZwKj" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mio Dam</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;">Some spectators follow the racers watching them at certain points where they are visible (the Mio Dam is a favorite). There's even a spectator guide available at the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><a href="http://ausablecanoemarathon.org/"><b>Ausable River Canoe Marathon website.</b></a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">New this year is the Dash for Cash on Tuesday the 26th. Starting at 3pm teams can make a dash along a 1/4 mile stretch for a $5000 cash pool. The first place prize is $400.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Andy Triebold will try for his fifth straight 1st place finish and fourth in a row with current partner Steve Lajoie. Go team.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">For more information go to the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><b><a href="http://ausablecanoemarathon.org/">Ausable River Canoe Marathon website.</a></b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;">If you have ever wanted to try canoeing or kayaking, Grayling is the place. Whether you want to take a leisurely ride or an over-niter, there are numerous rental places that can accomodate you.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">So if your in the Houghton Lake area at the end of the month and you want to see something different, check out the Ausable Canoe Race Marathon in Grayling.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">See you there,</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Ken S</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-size: large;"><br />
</span></div>Ken Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-18389939437281331752011-07-09T23:23:00.000-04:002011-07-09T23:23:37.869-04:00Firemens Memorial Festival 2011 Roscommon Michigan<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">31st Annual Michigan Firemens Festival</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><img height="320" src="http://www.firemensmemorial.org/images/logo.gif" width="230" /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">at The Fire Training Grounds </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">September 15-18, 2010</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Wow, this is such a fabulous festival dedicated to our firemen. With courage and special training they pit themselves against one of the most dangerous and destructive forces. They come from all over Michigan and across the nation to remember those who have given so much, at this annual festival. The public is welcome to come and join the celebration and have some fun while learning fire safety. Admission and parking are free.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.firemensmemorial.org/images/image2.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
Thursday night is <b>Family Night.</b> There will be craft projects and a fire safety trailer for the kids with free hot dogs and pop at 5pm and a magician at 7pm.<br />
<br />
Friday, Saturday and Sunday are full of activities, demonstrations and displays for adults and kids. Adult beverage tent will be open starting at 2pm on Friday. A badge is required for the bar.<br />
<br />
On Saturday at 9am there will be a service and a placement of wreaths to remember the fallen heroes. At 11pm is the parade through Roscommon. At 12:30 the Waterball Contest begins.<br />
<br />
There are free carnival and pony rides and a Sawdust Pile Penny Hunt, a BBQ Chicken lunch, and a vehicle extraction competition. Thus is just a few of the fun and educational events planned for the weekend. For schedule and times and just a whole lot more information about whats happening click the link below. And I hope to see you there.<br />
<br />
The festival is held at the Fire Training Grounds formerly known as Roscommon Fairgrounds.<br />
<br />
For more info go to <b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.firemensmemorial.org/index.htm">Michigan Firemens Memorial Festival website.</a></span></i></b><br />
<b><i><br />
</i></b><br />
Thanks for stopping by,<br />
<br />
<i>Ken S</i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><br />
</i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><br />
</i></b></div>Ken Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7614983556921533650.post-68326662796578731952011-07-08T04:29:00.025-04:002011-07-08T04:29:00.651-04:00Alpenfest 2011 Gaylord MI<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Click for larger view" height="200" src="http://www.gaylordalpenfest.com/pins/2010-sm.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alpenfest Badge from 2010</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Welcome to Alpenfest. A celebration of food and music in downtown Gaylord from July 12-16. Starting with the</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #433518; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #433518; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><b>Queens Pageant on</b></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #433518; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"> Tuesday, July 12 in the evening.</span><br />
<br />
With a Grand Parade on Saturday, July 16</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #433518; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><br />
</span></div><div> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #433518; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">The Alpine Village Main Street is closed to traffic and magically becomes an Alpenstrasse where you will find 60+ artists and craftsmen from around the country selling their wares.</span></div><div><br />
</div><div>There will be carnival rides for the kids and a week long Megapass will be available giving access to all rides for the week. <a href="http://www.gaylordalpenfest.com/store/index.cfm"><b><i>Passes cost $60. To order passes click here.</i></b></a><b><i> </i></b></div><div><b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></i></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">For the adults there is live music:</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><h3 align="center" style="color: #25411f; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Wednesday, July 13</span></h3><div style="color: #433518; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>12:00 noon The Young Americans </b>make their annual visit to the Alpine Villiage.</span></div><div style="color: #433518; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>8:00 pm </b><i><b>Restless Heart,</b></i> straight from Nashville, don't miss this one</span></div><div style="color: #433518; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><h3 style="color: #25411f; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Thursday, July 14</span></b></h3><div style="color: #433518; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>8:00 pm </b><i><b>Alan Turner the The Steel Horse Band,</b></i></span></div><div style="color: #433518; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; text-align: center;"><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></b></i></div><h3 style="color: #25411f; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Friday, July 15</span></h3><div style="color: #433518; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>8:00 pm </b><i><b>Jonny Diaz,</b></i> a little upbeat Christian Music</span></div><div style="color: #433518; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><h3 align="center" style="color: #25411f; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Saturday, July 16</span></h3><div style="color: #433518; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b>7:00 pm The Elders, </b>Celtic and Irish in one setting!</span></div><div style="color: #433518; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #433518; font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.5; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">The Alpine Village Main Street is closed to traffic and magically becomes an Alpenstrasse where you will find 60+ artists and craftsmen from around the country selling their wares.</span><br />
<br />
This festival is a favorite of many vacationers in the area and as such gets many people. So wear comfortable clothes and shoes and enjoy a day of fun, food, music, crafts and rides.<br />
<br />
For more info on this and other festivals in the Houghton Lake area <b><i><a href="http://houghtonlakehappenings.blogspot.com/p/festivals.html">click here.</a></i></b><br />
<br />
See Ya There,<br />
<br />
Ken S</div>Ken Stephensonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11736332148652041475noreply@blogger.com0