Thursday, August 30, 2007 - In the morning, the temp on our pack thermometers said 37 degrees but it was sunny and no wind. Pancakes, bacon and coffee were enjoyed. We decided to explore the eastern leg of Crab a bit more and other points of interest. I have often wondered how camp sites were chosen. Was there a formula or plan that used certain criteria? There were several locations that we thought looked like perfect sites, but were not designated. I even landed and checked out a few close up. Some seemed like ideal spots, even better than other designated ones. I guess the latrine location is probably critical and is likely a factor, but what about distance from other sites, tent pad spots and landings? Just some idle wonderings.

Explore we did, stopping at numerous sites, looking them over and noting pluses/minuses (it is a favorite past time of ours). I fished certain areas, with moderate success; before long, the wind was building and it became a chore to paddle into to. We found the portage to Clark Lake, then turned around and went with the wind all the way back to camp. Once at camp, I got restless so decided to head back out, drifting with the wind, using jig and leech. Small mouth again cooperated but nothing of any size. I headed back and started to break down tarp, etc since we planned an early return to Ely the next morning. It was another cool night; tonight we missed a camp fire.