It's Spring and that means it's time to get back on the water. Our first fishing trip of the year is always on Rattlesnake Lake. It's close and perfect for me to assess the kids' interest in fishing. As young as they are their attention remains erratic so it's best not to set out on an epic expedition that lasts for only 30 minutes of fishing.
We got the ultimate test on this trip. The weather was threatening when we arrived, but soon deteriorated into a genuine Class 3 Kill Storm. The rain wasn't like the usual misty moisture in the Northwest. The raindrops came down with force. Each impact made a tiny crater in the lake's surface.
Had we been hiking we might have taken shelter. However, when you're prepared to be half submerged in the water anyway a little rain isn't that bad. We put our hoods up, blew some bubbles, and fished on.
Although Rattlesnake Lake is heavily stocked in the Spring we had little luck. We each got at least one, but none were large or landed with a camera at the ready so you'll have to take my word for it. (I know, trusting a fisherman to tell the truth is almost as bad as trusting a lawyer.) The weather did clear enough to stay out on the lake and we even made it all the way to the far end. That might not sound like much, but it's about three quarters of a mile long and that's quite a way when you're paddling.
Our trip was an out-and-back with only a few stops to play fish. We timed it just right so there was (almost) no fussing on the lake. The kids were still happy and getting along when we returned to the boat ramp even if we didn't catch all the fish. (Parent pro-tip: Don't bother with the "It's called 'fishing,' not 'catching' quip. It was not well received.)
While we packed up the gear (an amazing amount of gear for just four of us) the kids walked around in the water in their kid-sized waders and flyrods. It was the first time they'd used their own rods (Reddington starter kits) and I was reminded how much having their own gear means to a little. Whether it's backpacks or waders or flyrods, being able to say, "I did it with my gear!" is something that bolsters their confidence and contributes to their enjoyment. Bonus: they get to learn to let go of their own gear when they outgrow it. (Amazon affiliate links help support moosefish.com.)
We've already got our next fishing trip planned for a more exotic locale that will hopefully result in a few more fish. In the meantime maybe I'll start teaching them to tie flies. Catching a fish in their own waders, with their own rod, and their own fly will be the ultimate experience.
