The last package I sent to Africa had my Wireless 4 Camera system so we are going to have a LOT of video, pictures, and stories to share at the end of the adventure.
To tell you the truth I am a bit uncomfortable. As a writer, how can I expect people who read my articles and take me seriously when I write the crazy stuff I do, unless I am willing to come to Africa? Well I am willing. I have not and will not make any grand declarations about catching huge numbers of abnormally large fish. I just HOPE I don't get skunked. At this point any fish caught is worth about R5000 a gram so I am hoping to at least break my PB. Actually if I catch no fish, it’s still going to be an awesome adventure.
All preparations are complete. I must take this opportunity to thank my new brother, Howard Johnson for all the work he has done on my behalf. Because I am incredibly lazy, I have put a LOT of work on his shoulders. I look forward to all of our future endeavours.
Our plans begin with 7 days at Lake Phobane. We are staying at ShakaLand. Actually that is one of my favourite movies. Then we will be going to go game viewing for a couple days and then Inanda for 4 or 5 days, then off to Craiggie Burn for the final days.
I am hoping some other fisherman come and spend some time with Howard and me sometime during my time there. Every night we will do our best to stay up and talk all things fishing. I want to share as much as I can. While there might be a friendly wager I don't want to have any competition. I want people to share what they are learning.
In the spirit of friendship, sharing, companionship, fellowship, etc...I have arranged for a Braai the last night at Shakaland. I think Howard has to shoot something but other than that dinner will be on me. Also normal to Spoon-plugging Outings is a prize giveaway and I have a few special things I will be giving away.
I will be happy to give short demos of various mapping and trolling techniques. I only ask some prior notice so I can be fair to everyone. Warning to all...there will be lots of video being shot so if your uncomfortable with film...get over it. Anyone who has questions, please contact me Fran Myers at [email protected] or Howard Johnson at [email protected]
Lastly-
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to South Africa
I managed to get the last pieces to South Africa and Howard was able to fully complete the boat and break the new 20hp 4-Stroke in this past weekend. After being very impressed with the performance of the Tug20 and getting the required 2 hours on the motor for break-in Howard went home. At the first fuel stop he was approached by an American and they started talking about the boat. At some point early in the conversation Howard mentioned a friend coming from America to demonstrate Spoon-plugging, talk about Mr. Perry, and maybe catch a few fish.
I guess the guy's head nearly twisted around. Turns out the guy is a Spoon-plugger from Tennessee. A discussion of the reservoirs, Bass (the guy didn't know there were Bass in at least HALF of Africa), the size these Bass get, Water Colour, depth, etc… I guess it was quite an animated conversation. Howard said the guy was practically frothing.
Howard told him to book a trip for next year and he would take him out but the guy declined due to the cost and how long it took him to save for this trip but it is really a small world. And that was the first weekend this boat had ever been on the water.
Makes you wonder what will happen next.
Bass Digest/August, 2014