By: Art Pasley
I'm beginning to wonder what it is about me, a C.A.S.T. event and rain. Since this years first Eastern Region event, held April 8th at Lake Bastrop, it has rained and in some cases violently at 5 of the 9 events. Only one of which had to be rescheduled but it still makes me wonder what it is that's causing this weather phenomenon. Thanks to divine intervention, the clouds have always cleared and the events went as planned, all but one that is.
My trips to the Dakota's are among my favorites. There is always something exciting to write about and the photo opportunities are out of this world. The participants, hosts and volunteers are always excited about the day and the fishing has always been good.
Bullheads and perch are the preferred catch of the day simply because they bite anything you throw at them. An unexpected catch this year was that of the snake which yours truly does not like and just happened to be the one available to remove the participants hook from the fiery eyed serpent's mouth. With great care and a lot of heavy breathing, I was able to remove the hook and watched as the devil monster slithered off into the brush.
If you follow our events and remember last year's story, you know that the small pond across the street is where all the action is, and this year was no different. The only change was the participants from last year remembered where to go to catch fish, so the catching started much earlier. It's a lot of fun watching everyone around the shore catching these little fish. Most of the same participants attend the event each year and yet the thrill is always the same. I guess we are all alike. If I ever get to the point that I'm no longer excited to catch a fish, I will just quit fishing.
As the morning drew to a close, and the lunch began, Deputy Area Manger Greg Gere addressed the crowd and recognized all of the Bureau staff for their efforts as well as the Mayor of Jamestown for attending the event. Then one by one, as he called each participant and awarded their plaque and a few kind words, they proudly accepted their praise.
What a great day in Jamestown! Thanks to all the Bismarck North Dakota Area personnel for another wonderful job of providing a "Special Thrill" to those in attendance. Special Recognition goes to Larry Kuntz, Patience Hurley, Kerri Scharnowske, Jessica Sheets, Jean Andersen, David Hartman and Mark Orth.
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(Click on a picture to enlarge)
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