When I got up the next morning it was mostly calm, clear, and beautiful. While having leisurely pot of coffee and Denver omelet, I realized I was not going to move forward today. Instead I relaxed, read a bit, processed more fire wood, then went out to fish and explore. I love lakers and made a good effort to learn more about how to fish for them last winter and was eager to try.

I paddled down to the south side of the lake and fished and explored a bit. Hooked a moderate and cooperate northern who provided a nice fight then conveniently released herself right at the boat. I wandered over to scout some of the other sites, then late afternoon set myself to catching some dinner. The winds had picked back up a bit, so it took a bit of work to control the boat. The underwater ridge on the west side near the southern most campsite was holding a good number of fish according to my depth finder, and one perfect sized eater came up willingly.

Back in camp with a nice fillet and supply of wood, I decided it was a good night for paella. I cut up some Boar’s Head dry sausage and smoked cheddar to tide me over while I did my prep work. With the garlic, onion, and peppers rehydrated and chorizo sliced, I lit the fire and let it start sizzling. Then more olive oil, saffron, water, stock, and the Bomba rice to simmer for about 20 minutes. Finally I tossed in the sliced lake trout fillet and let them cook through. I was sorry I forgot to bring dried shrimp on this trip, but it was really good anyway. I moved my chair down to the sandy beach, got a glass of wine, and sat down to eat. I love paella.