From the Journal of Chad Hertler

Here is a quick review of this years salmon trip.  The drought of the summer and fall of 2012 had taken its toll on river fishing.  Instead of fishing the first week of October we moved our trip back a week in hopes that more fish would move into the river.


We typically fish a location that the locals affectionately refer to as “the Hole.”  Due to the low levels of water, there were few fish in “the Hole” this year.  Thus we thrust into finding some new water to fish downstream.  By God’s grace, we found the water and the fish.


As I drove down to the Kewaunee River Monday morning from Green Bay, I sensed that God wanted me to focus on enjoying Him and not to evaluate the quality of the trip based on the number of fish that was caught.  This helped position my heart to be in an attitude of worship and thankfulness.


Monday morning we fished upstream where we traditionally do.  By noon, it was evident that there were few fish.  My friend Nathan told me of another spot one mile down river that has held fish in the past.  He had some business to attend to in Green Bay during the afternoon.  I was on my own to find this spot.


As I walked with my Bible in hand, this is what I saw:

Eventually, I located the spot. I intentionally sat on the bank and observed for 10 minutes.  During that time I gazed in astonishment to see 10 salmon launch themselves in the air.  I looked further and observed and a fisherman across from me hook one fish after another.  At one point, he yelled across “That is about the 20^th one I have had on today!”  Needless to say, new found enthusiasm pulsated through my veins as I scampered back to my truck to retrieve my waders and fly rod.  This was the start of one of the most memorable fishing experiences I have ever had.

First landed male of the day.

The placed we fished offered deep holes. This provided an immense challenge in fighting the fish.  I had torqued the drag as tight as I could on my Redington reel.  Despite this, the king salmon pulled line out with ease.  

We didn't keep any of the fish we caught.  We were simply grateful for the opportunity to tussle with them. 

The weather was harsh.  Rain, wind, and cold temperatures.  Funny how it doesn't feel all that bad when you are catching fish.

Nathan.  This is our 3^rd annual trip together.  Nathan not only owns BlueSky Furled  Leaders, he also serves as a fishing guide.  His product is sold world wide-including outlets like Cabala's and Bass Pro.   He is not only an experienced fisherman, but also a man of integrity.

 I think the action was as steady as last year.  What made this trip different was a new location and fewer people.  Typically during the peak of the Salmon run one can anticipate crowds-not this year. I am grateful for another year to fish the king salmons of Wisconsin’s Kewaunee River.  To be among friends, enjoying God in His creation. It truly was a memorable experience.  Chad H.