the spotted tail

One Day on the Indian River Lagoon

November 16, 2024 by john kumiski · Leave a Comment

One Day on the Indian River Lagoon, and a TAF Update

Thank you for reading this One Day on the Indian River Lagoon Report, and a TAF Update. I fished one day on the Indian River Lagoon, by kayak, with Caleb Vogl. The rest of the week was way too blowy for realistic fishing. The Assistance Fund got some more donations!

Subscribers without photos- go to https://www.spottedtail.com/blog/, please.

A huge THANK YOU to all the donors, by name and in no particular order-

-Laura Rice
-Ed Perry
-Dean Altenhofen
-Anonymous
-Walt Sheppard
-Earl Gillespie
-Ken Shannon
-Emily Nelson
-Kelly Holz
-Curtis Duffield
-Michelle Wilm
-Anonymous
-Marcia Foosaner
-Nicholas Colantonio
-Stephen Truscott
-Stephen Butrym
-Jorge Hidalgo
-John Harrison
-Henrique DePaiva
-Anonymous
-Anonymous
-Lisa Pello
-Anonymous
-Lynda Wehmeyer
-James Roberts
-Ralph Tedesco
-Cheryl Kumiski

This is quite a list, a bunch of generous, selfless people. We have raised $3,227.60 over 27 donations, 64 percent of my goal, and thank you, thank you, thank you again! Great job!

The fundraiser link if you’re motivated to donate (Please!)- https://giving.tafcares.org/-/NVCCHJED?member=SPEXUGER

As a reminder, the Assistance Fund helps underinsured people living with life-threatening, chronic, illness obtain treatment and medicine by providing financial assistance for their copayments, coinsurance, deductibles, and other health-related expenses.

The updates will continue every week until the fundraiser ends (at Thanksgiving), and of course if you’ve considered donating, it’s not too late!

—————————————————————-

Fishing

Tuesday Caleb joined me for an Indian River Lagoon excursion. I didn’t know what to expect, since I hadn’t been to this spot in a while. The water was too high for my tastes (a recurring theme this time of year), murky in some spots, lovely and clean in others. Based on what we could see and what we caught, most of it was fishless, even though there were plenty of glass minnows and mullet around.

The water level was around two feet. I like it around 0.5 feet. Eighteen inches of water makes a huge difference.

Caleb said he got a couple of nice trout, but I didn’t see or photograph them. We spent a lot of time pretty far apart. I got three snook on flies. The three of them together wouldn’t have made a decent sandwich.

I saw one redfish, one trout, and two black drum in five hours, and did not get a shot at any of them. My last couple fishing trips have been less than stellar.

I’ve been filling my time by tying flies for an upcoming trip, doing the never-ending yard work, and making Christmas presents.

Krebs poppers, my new secret weapon.

Friday I took a short walk at the Orlando Wetlands Park. The light was wonky, and there weren’t many critters about (not for that place, anyway). As I was walking, hunger pangs started, so I drove to Sunrise Bread Company and got a cinnamon roll. How self-indulgent of me.

It was that kind of morning…

The orb-weaver was pretty awesome, though.

Great blue heron.

Can you see the gator?

That’s the One Day on the Indian River Lagoon report. As always, thanks for reading!

Every day is a blessing. Don’t waste it- Go fishing! Go paddling! Go for a walk! Stay active!

John Kumiski
www.johnkumiski.com
www.spottedtail.com
www.spottedtail.com/blog

All content in this blog, including writing and photos, © John Kumiski 2024. All rights are reserved.

Filed Under: Fishing Reports ·

From Couch to Country: A Pet Lover’s Guide to Digital Nomadism

November 9, 2024 by john kumiski · Leave a Comment

From Couch to Country: A Pet Lover’s Guide to Digital Nomadism

A Guest Blog by Julia Mitchell.

Embarking on the digital nomad lifestyle with your pet offers an unparalleled opportunity for freedom and bonding. It requires thoughtful preparation to ensure both you and your pet’s needs are met while on the move. This lifestyle allows you to explore new cultures and destinations with your faithful companion by your side. Today, Spotted Tail Outdoors and Travel shares some tips to help you better navigate the joys and challenges of living and working remotely in a constantly changing environment.

Preparing Your Pet for Life on the Road

Know International Pet Travel Rules

When traveling abroad with your pet, familiarize yourself with the entry regulations of each country you plan to visit. Most destinations require proof that your pet is vaccinated, especially against rabies. Be aware of varying quarantine measures, which can last from a few days to months. Advance research helps avoid unexpected hurdles at border control, ensuring a smooth entry for you and your pet.

Equip Your Pet with Comfortable Travel Gear

Ensure your pet’s comfort and safety during travel with appropriate gear. Choose a durable, airline-approved carrier that provides both ventilation and protection from the elements. Essential items like portable bowls, pet wipes, and a cozy blanket will keep your pet hydrated, clean, and comfortable on your journey.

Choose Pet-Friendly Destinations

Research destinations that are conducive to pets, focusing on those with pet-friendly facilities like hotels, parks, and eateries. Opt for locations offering green spaces for your pet to play and relax. Many tourist spots now accommodate pets in various social settings, enhancing the travel experience for both of you. Selecting pet-welcoming places reduces stress and enriches your digital nomad lifestyle.

Protect Your Pet with Comprehensive Insurance

Consider international pet insurance to handle unexpected health issues while abroad. These plans offer worldwide coverage, making it easier to obtain necessary veterinary care without financial strain. Tailored to the needs of nomadic pet owners, such policies ensure that your pet can receive prompt and adequate treatment during emergencies. Comprehensive insurance provides peace of mind as you explore new borders with your pet.

Building a Sustainable Digital Nomad Career

Boost Your Credentials with an Online Business Degree

Earning an online business management degree can significantly enhance your marketability in a competitive job landscape. Seek out programs that provide a flexible curriculum, focusing on key competencies like strategic planning, leadership, and management. These online degrees empower students to dictate the pace of their learning, alleviating the stress of balancing academic, professional, and personal responsibilities. Such flexibility is ideal for those who need to coordinate education with travel or family commitments.

Create a Professional Remote Work Portfolio

Develop a professional portfolio to effectively display your remote work capabilities. It should feature a collection of your best work, particularly projects that you’ve managed remotely, to demonstrate your ability to operate independently. Tailor your portfolio to highlight skills relevant to remote roles across various fields like writing or web development. A well-crafted portfolio increases your chances of securing remote work that aligns with a nomadic lifestyle.

Hone Essential Remote Work Skills

Prioritize acquiring skills in high-demand areas like digital marketing, graphic design, and coding to succeed as a digital nomad. Engage with platforms that offer current courses in these skills to keep up with industry trends and enhance your professional toolkit. These abilities increase your employability and provide opportunities to take on diverse roles that support your nomadic lifestyle. Mastering these skills ensures you are well-prepared to capitalize on remote work opportunities.

Secure Reliable Income Streams

To sustain a digital nomad lifestyle, secure reliable sources of income. Explore freelancing, consulting, or positions with companies that embrace remote work. Utilize freelance marketplaces and remote job boards to connect with ongoing projects or secure long-term employment. A stable income allows for financial freedom and peace of mind, enabling you and your pet to enjoy an adventurous, fulfilling life on the move.

Adopting a nomadic lifestyle with your pet transforms every day into an adventure filled with unexpected learning and growth. It reinforces the bond between you as you both adapt to new surroundings and experiences. With the right preparation and mindset, this journey can be as rewarding as it is exciting. Your pet doesn’t just accompany you; they enrich every step of the way.

Julia Mitchell, incredibly passionate about the activities that fill her days, wants to share her adoration for her favorite lifestyle topics with the world and encourage others to turn their INspiration into OUTspiration.

Filed Under: Guest Blogs · Tagged: digital nomadism, julia mitchell, travel with pets

One Day on Mosquito Lagoon, and a TAF Update

November 9, 2024 by john kumiski · Leave a Comment

One Day on Mosquito Lagoon, and a TAF Update

Thank you for reading this One Day on Mosquito Lagoon Report, and a TAF Update. I fished one day on the Mosquito Lagoon, by kayak. The rest of the week was way too blowy for realistic fishing. The Assistance Fund got some more donations!

Julia Mitchell has a great guest blog this week- A Pet Lover’s Guide to Digital Nomadism. Check it out!

Subscribers without photos- go to https://www.spottedtail.com/blog/, please. Don’t bother- no photos this week- the camera was left at home.

A huge THANK YOU to all the donors, by name and in no particular order-

We have raised $2,205.90 over 25 donations, 42 percent of my goal, and thank you, thank you, thank you again! Great job!

The fundraiser link if you’re motivated to donate (Please!)- https://giving.tafcares.org/-/NVCCHJED?member=SPEXUGER

The updates will continue every week until the fundraiser ends (at Thanksgiving), and of course if you’ve considered donating, it’s not too late!

Fishing

After four days of 20 knot winds, it was to calm down on Friday. So I loaded the kayak onto the chariot and drove over, dropping the boat into the water around 8 AM. As I was prepping, it was impossible to ignore the school of mullet fleeing in terror by the nearest spoil island. I paddled over and got bit on the first cast. I like to think that I ain’t superstitious (a great song on Jeff Beck’s first album), but man, that bite on the first cast is never a good thing. This fish meant business, too- I figured it was at least ten pounds. It was tearing line of the reel, making that Zzzzz-Zzzz-Zzzz noise that anglers so love. It turned out to be a crevalle of 2-3 pounds, foul-hooked at the base of the pectoral fin, where its leverage was much greater than if it had been hooked in the mouth.

Five minutes later his twin bit the Culprit Mullet, and I got him, too. It was much easier, since this one was hooked in the mouth.

And that was it, almost for the rest of the outing. I did see two redfish, and did just before loading up catch a snooklet on a Krebs Popper tossed with the fly pole. It was mostly watching out for manatees, and watching dolphins and the occaisional blowup by jacks (almost had one crash into the kayak as it single-mindedly pursued a terrified mullet). A manatee skull, complete with mandible, was found. It’s still there.

The water seemed higher than last week, and was certainly more turbid. Probable cause of the turbidity, those 20-knot winds all week. Sightfishing was impossible for all practical purposes. Boat was back on the car about 130 PM.

That’s the One Day on Mosquito Lagoon report, and a TAF Update. As always, thanks for reading!

Every day is a blessing. Don’t waste it- Go fishing! Go paddling! Go for a walk! Stay active!

John Kumiski
www.johnkumiski.com
www.spottedtail.com
www.spottedtail.com/blog

All content in this blog, including writing and photos, © John Kumiski 2024. All rights are reserved.

Filed Under: Fishing Reports · Tagged: fishing mosquito lagoon, The Assistance Fund

North IRL System Report

November 1, 2024 by john kumiski · Leave a Comment

North IRL System Report and a TAF Update

Thank you for reading this North IRL System Report and a TAF Update. I fished one day in the Indian River Lagoon and two days in the Mosquito Lagoon, by kayak. The Assistance Fund also got some more donations, thank you very much.

Also, Julia Mitchell has another excellent guest blog on Living as a Digital Nomad!

Subscribers without photos- go to https://www.spottedtail.com/blog/, please.

A huge THANK YOU to all the donors to The Assistance Fund, by name and in no particular order-

We have raised $1,650.60 over 18 donations, 33 percent of my goal, and thank you, thank you, thank you again! Great job!

The fundraiser link if you’re motivated to donate (Please!)- https://giving.tafcares.org/-/NVCCHJED?member=SPEXUGER

The updates will continue every week until the fundraiser ends (at Thanksgiving), and of course if you’ve considered donating, it’s not too late!

———————————————————–

OK, Fishing!

I wish I had better news.

Tuesday

found me paddling on the Indian River Lagoon. The water was high and brown. There were quite a few mullet around, and occasionally something large would blow up on them. I tried my 3″ shad, a DOA Bait Buster, and what is for me a new lure, the 4″ Culprit Mullet. I fooled a juvenile snook with the shad and got a ladyfish on a Clouser Minnow, and missed a couple half-hearted bites. Whatever was blowing up on that bait ignored my offerings completely.

After pulling the kayak out (it got pretty windy, a theme that continued through the week), I drove down Route 3, checking spots for future reference. At one, I couldn’t help but notice what looked like baby tarpon rolling. I pulled out the fly pole, put on a little Crease Fly (thank you, Joe Blados!) and proceeded to catch three baby tarpon in succession, then missed several more. A fun (for me, not the fish) 30 minutes that salvaged the day. But I did not find any spots that looked more fishy than anything I’d seen earlier that day.

The Crease Fly, invented by Joe Blados. Mine look somewhat less polished.

Something I re-observed about tarpon-
Tarpon of any size that have not been fished are very aggressive. It doesn’t take them long to smarten up! The three I caught were my first three bites. After that, the bites were more hesitant, and then they stopped altogether. All in about 30 minutes! I’ve noticed this before in similar situations. Perhaps they communicate with each other somehow, possibly chemically, or perhaps you just catch the aggressive ones and the rest are more timid. Generally, if you move a short distance, the same pattern repeats.

Yeah, they were babies.

Wednesday

I launched at River Breeze. While driving over there, I was fairly enamored over the lovely, razor-thin crescent of the nearly new moon, just beautiful. Upon arriving at the lagoon, I was also struck by the richness of the bird life. But the water was high and brown. I paddled about five miles in four hours, only seeing a single redfish. The most exciting thing that happened was an osprey swooped down on that Culprit Mullet, thinking about diving on it, as I retrieved it. Fortunately he pulled up when he was about a foot off the water- I don’t want to have to unhook any birds of prey!

Sadly, no bites happened to disturb the bird-watching. When the wind started pushing near 20, I bagged it, a total skunking with nary a nibble.

Thursday

was blowing hard from the get-go. I did not fish.

Friday

found me paddling and wading at Mosquito Lagoon. I went to the shallowest place I could find, and unbelievably there were some fish there. The first fish I saw elicited both disbelief and elation, especially when it took the slider. The scene repeated twice, and I got another red and a beautiful, fat trout by blind casting with a Clouser Minnow. Then the wind started honking, and I loaded up after enjoying much better fishing than expected.

More than I expected…

…especially when he showed up.

The NOAA forecast for Monday through Wednesday here is east at 15-20 knots. May not be fishing much!

Every day is a blessing. Don’t waste it- Go fishing! Go paddling! Go for a walk! Stay active!

John Kumiski
www.johnkumiski.com
www.spottedtail.com
www.spottedtail.com/blog

All content in this blog, including writing and photos, © John Kumiski 2024. All rights are reserved.

Filed Under: Fishing Reports, Mosquito Lagoon Fishing Report, Paddle Fishing Florida · Tagged: crease fly, culprit mullet, fishing indian river lagoon, fly fishing for redfish, fly fishing for seatrout, fly fishing mosquito lagoon, indian river lagoon system, indian river lagoon tarpon

Your Guide to a Digital Nomad Life in an RV

October 30, 2024 by john kumiski · Leave a Comment

Your Guide to a Digital Nomad Life in an RV

Image via Freepik

A Guest Blog by Julia Mitchell.

The allure of a life untethered, exploring the world while maintaining a livelihood, is a dream for many. Swapping a static residence for a home on wheels might seem like a bold move, but it can also be the gateway to boundless opportunities.

This guide to a digital nomad life in an RV from Spotted Tail Outdoors and Travel aims to equip aspiring nomads with essential strategies and actionable insights to make this transformative life choice a reality. The focus will be on important aspects such as determining the fate of your existing home, establishing an online presence, choosing an appropriate mobile abode, and more.

Deciding What to Do With Your Home

Before setting your sights on the open road, it is crucial to decide what to do with your current residence. Weigh the pros and cons of selling versus renting it out.

Selling might offer a quick financial boost, but renting provides a steady income stream and can enable you to return to your home when you want to be off the road. Renting out your property allows you to maintain a valuable asset that could appreciate over time, while still enjoying the flexibility of travel.

Invest in Digital Marketing

Digitally marketing yourself and your work as a digital nomad is crucial for attracting clients and building a strong online presence. Start by creating a professional website that showcases your portfolio and services. Practice search engine optimization (SEO) to increase your visibility on search engines and drive organic traffic to your site. If you’re wondering how to advertise your business effectively, leverage social media platforms to connect with your audience, share your experiences, and promote your work.

Select a RV That Aligns with Your Budget

Equally crucial is the task of selecting an RV that suits both your needs and financial capabilities. A myriad of options exists, from minimalist models to luxurious vehicles, each with its set of amenities and specifications. Take into account the RV’s size, its fuel efficiency, and the facilities it offers. Remember, the mobile home will serve as both your living space and office, making it a dual investment.

Become Familiar with Contract Basics

Understanding contract basics is invaluable for freelancing digital nomads, as it provides a layer of protection and clarity when working with clients across different locations. Knowing how to outline payment terms, project scope, and deadlines ensures you and your clients are on the same page, reducing misunderstandings and securing your earnings. Many online resources offer guidelines on how to make a contract agreement, making it easier to draft basic contracts tailored to your work. Learning to write these agreements empowers you to manage your projects professionally and build trust with clients.

Master the Fundamentals of RV Driving and Upkeep

Before taking that inaugural journey, getting acquainted with the fundamentals of RV driving and maintenance is imperative. This involves understanding the vehicle’s technical aspects, such as its electrical, plumbing, and ventilation systems. Safety measures, including how to maneuver the RV in different terrains and weather conditions, are also essential knowledge. Equipping yourself with basic repair skills can save both time and resources in the long run.

Prioritize Cleanliness in Your Mobile Living Quarters

An organized and clean environment is essential for productivity and mental well- being. Instituting a regular cleaning regimen will make the mobile lifestyle more enjoyable and manageable. Designate specific places for essential items to ensure easy access. Moreover, consider investing in compact and multifunctional furniture to maximize the limited space without sacrificing comfort.

Explore Viable Employment Options

Even while exploring new places, sustaining income is paramount. Research prospective employment avenues that fit your skill set and preferences. Look for opportunities that allow flexibility to accommodate your travel schedule. Options could range from remote work and freelance opportunities to part-time employment in the localities you visit.

Opting for a life on the road as a digital nomad in an RV is a transformative decision that demands meticulous planning. From mastering the intricacies of mobile living to investing in digital marketing, each step requires careful consideration and preparation. Following these guidelines will aid in making this audacious lifestyle shift as smooth and rewarding as possible.

Embrace the promise of new experiences, diverse landscapes, and a unique work-life balance that only a mobile lifestyle can offer.

Filed Under: Guest Blogs · Tagged: digital marketing, digital nomad, Recreational vehicles, RV as a business, RV lifestyle, RV living

No Fishing and a TAF Update

October 26, 2024 by john kumiski · Leave a Comment

No Fishing and a TAF Update

Thank you for reading this No Fishing and a TAF Update. I apologize for this pitiful fishing report. Between the wind, doctors, mechanics, the VA, yard work, and etcetera, I did not get out fishing this week. I did tie some beautiful flies while my car was being repaired. Got some more of that coming up, too, unfortunately- the repairs aren’t finished. I only got as much done as I could afford. The good news, The Assistance Fund got a bunch of donations!

I made this synthetic minnow at the car dealer while my car was being repaired.

Subscribers without photos- go to https://www.spottedtail.com/blog/, please.

A huge THANK YOU to all the donors, by name and in no particular order-

We have raised $1,542.70 over 15 donations, 30 percent of my goal, and thank you, thank you, thank you again! Great job!

I also got a new member on my fundraising team, Mr. Dean Altenhofen. Thanks for helping out, Dean!

The fundraiser link if you’re motivated to donate (Please!)- https://giving.tafcares.org/-/NVCCHJED?member=SPEXUGER

The updates will continue every week until the fundraiser ends (at Thanksgiving), and of course if you’ve considered donating, it’s not too late!

I have every intention of fishing next week (although I can’t Monday because of a doctor appointment. How quickly the days slide away!)

Another car repair fly. Knocked out 22 while waiting. You know I want to get these things wet!

The Econ, at 9 feet on the gauge, is still way too high to fish. The lagoons might be good, though!

That’s the No Fishing and a TAF Update. Better reports will come, I promise.

Every day is a blessing. Don’t waste it- Go fishing! Go paddling! Go for a walk! Stay active!

John Kumiski
www.johnkumiski.com
www.spottedtail.com
www.spottedtail.com/blog

All content in this blog, including writing and photos, © John Kumiski 2024. All rights are reserved.

Filed Under: Flies and Fly Tying, Uncategorized · Tagged: synthetic minnow, The Assistance Fund

Some Fishing and a TAF Report

October 19, 2024 by john kumiski · Leave a Comment

Some Fishing and a TAF Report

Thank you for reading this Some Fishing and a TAF Report. A couple days of azure skies and light winds allowed for a couple of delightful days on the water, and TAF got a bunch of donations!

Subscribers without photos- go to https://www.spottedtail.com/blog/, please.

A huge THANK YOU to all the donors, by name and in no particular order-

-Laura Rice
-Ed Perry
-Dean Altenhofen
-Anonymous
-Walt Sheppard
-Earl Gillespie
-Ken Shannon
-Emily Nelson
-Kelly Holz

What a great group of people!!!

The total raised so far is slightly over $775, 15 percent of my goal, and thank you, thank you, thank you again!

Click here for the fundraiser link if you’re motivated to donate (Please!)

The updates will continue every week until the fundraiser ends (at Thanksgiving), and of course if you’ve considered donating, it’s not too late!

———————————————————–

Fishing!

Monday the Bang-O-Craft plied the startlingly-clear-even-though-it’s-high water of the Mosquito Lagoon, carrying yours truly and Scott Radloff. We did not tear things up, piscatorially speaking. I got a nice trout on my favorite lure, the 3″ plastic shad, near Vann’s Island, and minutes later Scott got one, too. We saw a few handsome, surprisingly large snook. Not surprisingly, they wanted nothing whatsoever to do with us or our faux minnows.

I got a flounder, a decent one. Susan and I ate it for dinner one night. Scott got a redfish, blind-casting. Actually, such fish as we got all came by blind-casting. The water is deep enough to make sight-fishing difficult. We were out about five hours, saw the Falcon Heavy leave for Jupiter, and were impressed by the amount of bait in the water. Life for the gamefish must be pretty sweet right now!

Tuesday Caleb Vogl joined me for a Banana River Lagoon excursion. Caleb started the festivities by casting to an obvious wake with a Zara Spook. The fish, a crevalle jack, crushed it.

The water was not nearly as clear as Mosquito Lagoon is. And there’s not nearly as much bait. And that jack was it for a couple hours. The place honestly looked pretty dead.

I found a small spot where, in about 30 minutes, I got two juvie snook, a very juvie tarpon, and a ladyfish, all on the plastic shad. Then it quieted right down.

Around mid-day I decided that further searching was most likely futile, and turned the kayak around. On the way back Caleb spotted some breaking fish and I at least got a fish on the fly rod, another jack. Caleb also got one, still using the Spook. Boats were loaded about 3 PM.

The rest of the week was pretty breezy and I had doctors and honey-dos, so no fishing. See ya next week!

That’s my Some Fishing and a TAF Report. Thanks for reading it!

Every day is a blessing. Don’t waste it- Go fishing! Go paddling! Go for a walk! Stay active!

John Kumiski
www.johnkumiski.com
www.spottedtail.com
www.spottedtail.com/blog

All content in this blog, including writing and photos, © John Kumiski 2024. All rights are reserved.

Filed Under: Fishing Reports, Mosquito Lagoon Fishing Report, Paddle Fishing Florida · Tagged: fishing banana river lagoon, fishing mosquito lagoon, southern flounder, spotted seatrout, The Assistance Fund

Hurricane Milton and TAF Report

October 12, 2024 by john kumiski · Leave a Comment

Hurricane Milton and TAF Report

This is a screen shot of Hurricane Milton from the internet!

Thank you for reading this Hurricane Milton Report. We were very fortunate that the worst thing that happened to us was a mess of small branches down in our yard, and being without power for 24 hours. Minor inconveniences!

Subscribers without photos- go to https://www.spottedtail.com/blog/, please.

Before anything else, though, I want to brag on The Assistance Fund. They sent me a letter recently, asking for publicity. I’m happy to give it. Please read what’s written below.

In 2019 I was diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. The cause is unknown, the disease progressive and incurable. Scar tissue replaces healthy lung tissue, preventing oxygen exchange. Once this process starts, it continues until death results. A drug called OFEV, which I have been taking since October of 2020, slows the disease’s progression. I would already be dead if I weren’t taking it.

A dose of OFEV costs $200. I take a dose every day, so far for four years. My Medicare covers much of that cost, but my copay is hundreds of dollars a month. The Assistance Fund gives me an annual grant that covers the balance, which I could otherwise not afford. That I am able to share with you my experiences outdoors with these reports every week is due in large part to the grant The Assistance Fund makes available to me. Bless The Assistance Fund!

The Assistance Fund provides similar funding to over 35,000 people with all kinds of exotic ailments, not just me! Again, bless The Assistance Fund!

Please, join me in supporting The Assistance Fund (TAF)! TAF helps patients and families facing high medical out-of-pocket costs by providing financial assistance for their copayments, coinsurance, deductibles, and other health-related expenses. Your donation will help ensure that no person goes without treatment because of an inability to pay.

I’ve started a fundraiser. Please click this link to donate!

I will be giving updates every week until the fundraiser ends (at Thanksgiving), and of course asking for donations, too. Thank you so much for considering this!

———————————————————–

OK, back to Milton. Wind damage across the board seems like it’s less than what was anticipated. There is a lot of water, though. The Econlockhatchee crested at 17 feet. Since I like it around two feet, it will be a while before I fish there.

This is a screen shot from the internet!

The gauge on the Haulover Canal reads 2.9 feet as I write this. I like it around 0.5 feet. I haven’t been over there since I got home (the hurricane, you know) but that high water is likely to be dirty, too. Fishing is likely to be tough. I hope to check it Monday, and will report next week.

That’s my Hurricane Milton and TAF Report. Thanks for reading it!

Every day is a blessing. Don’t waste it- Go fishing! Go paddling! Go on a trip! Stay active!

John Kumiski
www.johnkumiski.com
www.spottedtail.com
www.spottedtail.com/blog

Filed Under: opinion, Uncategorized · Tagged: hurricane milton, The Assistance Fund

Home Again Report

October 4, 2024 by john kumiski · Leave a Comment

Home Again Report

Floating down the river in a stock tub.

Sunset tree in Red Bluff, California.

Thank you for reading this Home Again Report. As Dorothy said, “There’s no place like home.” I’m sharing a few of my favorite photos from the trip through this post.

California Highway 1, near Salt Point State Park.

Subscribers without photos- go to https://www.spottedtail.com/blog/, please.

Susan climbing a rock pile at Salt Point State Park. Can you see her in there?

My original plan after leaving the Shannons was to visit my cousin Josh and his family in northwestern Wisconsin, then visit Tammy, and Jim Tedesco, for some fishing in western North Carolina.

The Milky Way, somewhere it was dark.

As you may have heard, western North Carolina got hit hard by a hurricane. Tammy was flooded out and is now homeless. The Tedescos got through the storm without any property damage, but there were power lines and trees down all around them, with road closures because of that and the flooding.

Del Norte Redwood State Park.

Since my bride flew home from Boston on Monday, I changed my plan to get home as quickly as possible. After a too-quick, two-night visit with Josh, I drove home with a stop in northern Illinois and a stop in the middle of Tennessee. I didn’t think I had two 12-hour driving days in me, but I got home Wednesday evening, just before 7 PM.

A beach in Oregon, I forget which.

A glacial river coming off of Mt. Rainier.

Sun rays on Mt. Rainier.

The clean-up of both the yard and my vehicle is ongoing. I’m hoping to start fishing next week, although there’s a dentist appointment, and both an oil change and a tire rotation are needed.

Colorful meadow on Mt. Rainier.

Susan cavorts on a beach in Oregon.

The gruesome details:
-miles driven- 13,421 start to finish;
-gasoline used- 601 gallons;
-fuel efficiency- 22.3 miles per gallon;
-cheapest gas price- $2.84/gallon;
-priciest gas- $5.04/gallon;
-average gas price- $3.63/gallon;
-money spent on gasoline- $2185.86.

My competition. I almost look like that these days!

Sea anemones along the Washington coast.

We drove fairly directly to California, then spent time there and in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Minnesota, and a little in North Dakota and Wisconsin. We were simply in transit in all the other states we passed through. I needed neither the first aid nor the tool kits (although I did get the oil changed in California, and did have that ER visit!), more evidence of how blessed I am.

Catalina and Maxx at the Experimental Breeder Reactor Museum in Idaho.

That’s my Home Again Report. Thanks for reading it!

Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park.

Susan Surprise points out the thermal feature named for her.

Every day is a blessing. Don’t waste it- Go fishing! Go paddling! Go on a trip! Stay active!

Alex with a nice brown trout, Gallatin River.

Rainbows over Stillwater River, Montana.

John Kumiski
www.johnkumiski.com
www.spottedtail.com
www.spottedtail.com/blog

Bison, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota.

Filed Under: travel blog · Tagged: cross-country road trip, del norte coast redwoods state park, fly fishing gallatin river, Mt. Rainier National Park, salt point state park, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, yellowstone national park

A Week with the Shannons Report

September 28, 2024 by john kumiski · Leave a Comment

A Week with the Shannons Report

Thank you for reading this Week with the Shannons Report. During my week there, I helped (in a small way) with the renovations on their lake house, ate too much of Cindy’s incredible cooking, and fished in Annie Battle Lake in Glendalough State Park three times.

Our friend Julia Mitchell has another wonderful guest blog with us this week, too!

Subscribers without photos- go to https://www.spottedtail.com/blog/, please.

Glendalough used to be a private preserve before becoming a state park. We could have fished in Battle Lake, but the park doesn’t allow motors in Annie Battle, which has no residences on it. Kind of a no-brainer for me. Ken and I fished it from kayaks two days, and I donned my waders and just waded it the other.

Ken wrangles a fish in the bulrushes. It got away!

The fish didn’t seem to care.

The first day, we were under orders to catch some sunfish for dinner, which colored our approach. In spite of tossing tiny baits (I tossed a wooly bugger with the fly rod, Ken a crappie jig with the spin) we caught largemouth bass, rock bass, and northern pike in addition to bluegills and pumpkinseeds.

The bluegills were fat and aggressive.

The wading day I was alone and just wanted to entertain myself. All I had were trout flies, and while I started with the wooly bugger, I ended up tossing a grasshopper pattern around bulrushes. The bugger produced a rock bass and a small northern pike. The grasshopper fooled numerous sunfish of both species and quite a few largemouth bass to maybe a pound-and-a-half.

Ken, rigging up.

Then I got an idea to buy some larger hooks and tie up some bigger leeches and bass bugs.

Bass on a leech.

Our last day, Ken brought some serious plugs and I used my new, larger flies. The results were basically the same. Although bites were frequent, neither of us got a fish bigger than maybe two pounds. I easily had a 30-fish day, fishing about four hours. All beautiful, healthy fish, too.

Bass on a gurgler.

I had a great time during my visit and would like to thank Ken and Cindy for being such thoughtful and gracious hosts. I am not worthy…

Now I’m on my way to Superior, Wisconsin to visit my cousin, Josh. I’m slowly working my way back to Florida!

That’s my Week with the Shannons Report. Thanks for reading it!

Every day is a blessing. Don’t waste it- Go fishing! Go paddling! Go for a walk! Stay active!

John Kumiski
www.johnkumiski.com
www.spottedtail.com
www.spottedtail.com/blog

Filed Under: Fishing Reports · Tagged: annie battle lake, battle lake minnesota, fly fishing for bass, fly fishing for sunfish, Glendalough State Park

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