I still have not wet a line yet, but soon I will take the plunge. I have yet to make it to the cabin and April has already turned into May. I guess that as an “old guy,” I am allowed a certain amount of whining. It is either raining or we are experiencing hurricane-type winds this spring. We need all of the rain that Old Mother nature can muster, and so far she is doing her part.
I have been looking back at late last summer when the Shellrock River had no water flowing. It is comforting to see the water flowing over the dam once again. I do not know if we will have the drought-like weather again this summer, but we can only hope for the best.
When I think back to the years not long ago when we had plenty of water running in our creeks, streams and rivers, I can wishfully hope that the drought of last year was just an occasional happening.
Whenever I look back at the days spent in the north country at our cabin, I get a warm feeling inside. I can reminisce about the times fishing with my sons and grandsons. Now those are precious memories of bonding with my family.
Hopefully, my grandson, Dylan, will be coming to the cabin a few times this summer. I always enjoy spending time with him both in the boat or at the cabin. His weekends are spent playing Rugby for a team in St. Cloud. I'm hoping to get to one of his matches this year.
Over the last few years, I have expressed my desire to spend at least one night camping in a tent on one of the National Forest campgrounds on Spider Lake. Both of my sons and my grandson, Dylan, have supported my idea. Unfortunately, either extreme heat or rain has dampened my plan. This may be the summer that I accomplish that feat. This is still on my bucket list, so I hope to do it before the bucket springs a leak.
If you want a little adventure, you may want to try camping in one of the state forest campgrounds that Minnesota has to offer. Minnesota state forests offer four different rustic camping opportunities—take your pick! Dedicated campsites generally include:
*Cleared area *Fire ring *Vault toilet *Picnic table
*Garbage cans *Drinking water.
Individual campsites do not accept reservations. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and provide only basic camping amenities. Individual campsites are designated for individuals or single families.
Group campsites are designated for larger groups and provide only basic camping amenities. For more information, call the state forest's campground listed contact.
A camping fee is charged in state forest campgrounds with developed facilities that include drinking water, garbage containers, and toilets. Individual and equestrian sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
*Individual campsites are $17 per night. No reservations required or available.
*Equestrian campsites are $22 per night. No reservations required or available.
*Group campsites are $50 per night. Call the state forest contact for more information.
No fees are charged for other recreational use of state forests.
Until next time: I am so looking forward to getting on the water this year, and I know that, once I do, I will once again connect to my passion for fishing. The longer that I wait the less time I will have to enjoy it.
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