Boundary Waters, Trip Reports, BWCA, Stories

1st solo
by Bearpath9

Trip Type: Paddling Canoe
Entry Date: 08/15/2021
Entry & Exit Point: Lake One (EP 30)
Number of Days: 5
Group Size: 1
Day 4 of 5
Wednesday, August 18, 2021

Up early, as usual. Gorgeous sunrise, as were all of them for the time I was there. It is kind of ironic, since the only reason that they were so striking is because of all the wildfires. Had my required 2 cups of tea, and got the fishing pole in my hand. Did a little better than on Tuesday, using the daredevle again, caught 2 more pike, one around a pound, maybe a little more, and one nice one, maybe 3-4 pounds. Put the canoe in, and went around the point to the marshy area NE of my camp. Put on a bare hook with a medium sized spinner attached and a leech. Went through about 8 or 9 leeches, but did catch a couple of smallies, 2 to 3 pounds I guess. But by 10 o'clock, they just shut down. All fish were released.

Spent the rest of the day getting the camp organized and exploring the site. And swimming, which I did 2 or 3 times, as it was about the only way to keep cool. The wind was not blowing enough to keep the heat down. Fortunately, the sand on the landing extends out so I had an actual beach.

Now, I am not a digital type person. I have a PC, which I am not very adept at, and have never owned a cell phone. However, my wife insisted that I get one since I was alone, and would need it in case of emergencies. I hate it when she is right. So, kicking and screaming, I purchased a flip phone and brought it along. I couldn't get through in the camp, or even up on the kitchen area, both of which are clear of trees or any other possible interference. I then went out in the lake up to my knees and bingo! I was able to get through. Talked for a bit, and then I called it a night.