FLY FISHING AND OTHER SPORTS

2011-06-09T12:28:00.003-05:00

COME SEE ME AT http://www.doug-kerrville.blogspot.com/

2011-06-08T07:23:00.003-05:00

ROMEO LUNCH FRIDAY 11:30 BILLY GENE'S

I'm having trouble editing this blog and it's making me mad! I can't stand to have misspelled words and I look and see huse for house and it bothers me. Well get over it Teter! Do what you can.

It was a good night for me because the two teams I wanted to win did! The Arizona State women's softball team defeated Florida for the second straight night to claim the NCAA Softball Championship and believe me they were in a class of their own. They beat Florida 3 times and out scored their opponents 34-12. The made no errors in the world series and were led by a freshman pitcher, Dallas Escobedo, who threw every pitch in the entire playoffs. With her in the circle Arizona State could be tough for several years to come.

2011-06-08T05:51:00.003-05:00

After the fish made several runs and I finally got him in I was pleasantly surprised when I found out it was a catfish. It was hard to hold the fish to get him in the picture (notice my arm is straight out). I have now caught a large bass, a large crappie, good size bluegill and a catfish out of the same hole on the river. I think except for the bluegill each was caught on a different fly. I would enjoy catching catfish more often as they are fun on my #2 wt.

In other action Arizona State defeated Florida 14-4 in the first game of a best of three. They play again tonight. In college baseball, South Carolina, UConn, Florida State, Cal and Dallas Baptist all advanced to the super regionals and Texas A&M plays Arizona today for the last spot.

I read someplace today that President Obama warned Europe to get there house in financial order. Let's see should he be giving them advice when he's done nothing to get our house in order. Oh yeah, and Brazil you do some deep sea drilling and we'll become a good customer. But we should definitely not drill for our own oil. Another thing don't you states do anything but send us money. How dare you try to do anything about immigration. Let us, your government, do nothing!! Just thought I'd throw those tidbits in the mix.

2011-06-06T07:16:00.002-05:00

ROMEO LUNCH Friday at Billy Genes.
The weekend was full of softball and baseball games for the aspiring college teams. In the Women's College World Series Florida will play Arizona State for the championship. Florida scored 25 runs in two games against Alabama to advance to the finals. The two teams, Arizona State and Florida will play the best of two series starting tonight. In men's baseball, ten teams have advanced to the round of sixteen and twelve teams play today for the last six slots. Texas is in and A&M, Baylor and Dallas Baptist try today to qualify for the round of sixteen.

The Mavs lost by two and a three point shot at the end of the quarter for Miami in my opinion shouldn't have counted. I think there was a back court violation that should have been called. Once again I am reminded that after playing and coaching basketball for most of my life I don't understand what determines what calls are going to be made by the officials in the pro game. I guess that's why I read while the game is on TV.

Must leave time to go fishing.

2011-06-04T08:41:00.002-05:00

Okay, I guess I'll have to watch sports with the television muted! They are forcing me to do this. I'll miss the roar of the crowd and the "cute " cheers in the women's dugouts but I've had it. The announcers talk on and on during the game. The word is "TELEVISION" not "teleaudio". My gosh this doesn't only happen with the college softball games but the NBA playoffs and every other game on TV. If they were experts and correct most of the time it would be one thing but time after time they aren't. I sit and watch and tell Carolyn that the announcers missed that one and back the play up and show her. The British have it right when they televise Wimbledon. You watch the play and every now and then you'll here "that was well done" or something similar. We, and I include you all when I say that, want to watch the game not listen to the announcers go on and on about something they think. They are also supposed to be neutral. Watching the softball game between Florida and Arizona State one of the women announcers said that she hoped Florida would make adjustments in their hitting. Why, to score hits and runs? Do you think she was pulling for Florida? It sounded biased when I heard it.

In college baseball regionals Dallas Baptist, TCU, Baylor, Rice, Texas and A&M all won their openers and play today. Softball match ups today are Cal/ Oklahoma State and Oklahoma/Missouri. The winners of these games take on Baylor and Florida later. The winners of the latter to games move on, the losers go home.

2011-06-03T12:26:00.002-05:00

I got home a couple of hours ago and I'm finally getting around to writing this blog. I went to the park and did a little fishing in areas that i had never fished before. I caught eight small bluegill and no bass. I did the best after I went under with a white bug-eyed nymph. I had tried several top water flies and only a couple took them so I decided to tried the bug eye. I'm not discouraged but I'll try another spot next time.

The Mavs came from 15 back and defeated the Heat last night to even the series. I didn't watch much of the game. I did however watch a couple of the women's softball world series games. Both were well pitched games ending 1-0. In the first game Alabama beat Cal and in the second game Baylor beat Oklahoma State 1-0 with a walk off homerun in the bottom of the seventh. Games three and four I missed due to Bridge. (I won both Wed and Thursday). Florida beat Missouri 6-2 and Arizona State defeated Oklahoma 3-1. The winners play tonight in the double elimination tournament.

2011-06-02T06:41:00.003-05:00

I finally made it to the river yesterday for about an hour and a half and caught a half dozen bluegill and one bass. The river is really low and barely flowing. Tomorrow I plan on fishing at a different spot. If you get out early enough the weather isn't that bad. There always seems to be a breeze on the river which cools it down some. I've got a dental appointment this morning or I'd be out fishing again today.

I receiveda fishing report so check out the "Fishing Report" column. It is a copy of the email sent to me. Get on the river and hook some fish.

2011-06-01T07:56:00.003-05:00

It looks like a good morning to do a little fishing. Due to circumstances beyond my control I can't go very far, so I'm going down below my place. I have to be back by 11 or so. I've got a few new flies to try out. I'll report tomorrow.

The Heat won the first game of the NBA finals and after watching the first 2 1/2 quarters I decided I didn't care who won. The Heat eventually did and Dirk got hurt so I think the Heat will win but I'd like to see the Mavs come out on top.

The college Baseball tournament has selected its 64 teams. There are 6 teams from Texas in it. TCU, Rice, Baylor, Texas A&M, Texas and Texas State.

A pretty good number from our state! Get out and on the river.

2011-05-31T07:48:00.002-05:00

I'm not too keen on the idea that we're here for the summer if the last couple of days is any indication of what it's going to be like. Hot and windy. I will say that I will probably get a lot of reading done and go through a number of books. There won't be much to write about since I won't be giving a daily update on the good trout fishing in Colorado or Montana. Instead I will give you periodic reports on my fishing locally. To make it interesting I'll have to use my imagination a little to keep your interest. I'm going to try to keep from doing anything on the politics of the day since some people are so gullible and buy the scare tactics that are used. I said I'll try.

In sports the NBA Finals are starting tonight (finally). The college "World Series" in women's softball start this week and men's baseball start their tournament schedule. The Indy 500 had an interesting finish and many golf tournaments have had to go extra holes to crown a winner.

2011-05-29T08:00:00.004-05:00

If you haven't checked out the HCFF website recently, you need to do so. It's up to date and someone is doing a nice job. When you're there check out the photos. Congratulations go to whomever is doing the maintenance of the site.

This being a holiday weekend yours truly isn't going to do any fishing. Too many people out and too much wind. I haven't been for a while and I need to get out there before the withdrawals really start to get a hold of me. Remember if you go send me an email and I'll share it with everyone. You don't have to give me the precise location just a hint to get more club members fishing.

The super regional women's softball tournaments finish up today with three teams needing to win one game and three teams needing to win two games. Baylor takes on Georgia and Baylor needs to win one. Washington plays Missouri and Missouri needs one win. Cal needs to defeat Kentucky once today to advance to the "World Series". Already qualified for the Series are Arizona State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Alabama and Florida. If Missouri and Baylor win today the Big 12 will have 4 or half of the teams vying for the Championship.

2011-05-26T07:57:00.003-05:00

Is it hot enough for you? Yesterday was a scorcher. It is to be a little cooler today and it is starting out that way. I haven't been fishing since my nephew arrived but I plan on going Friday morning. I've got a few places in mind to try out but I'll be back home mid-morning. I know all of you got the email from Danny about the meeting time and place being changed back to the Nature Center at 7:00 PM in September but thought I'd mention it again. This should help several of the new members that are working and couldn't make the lunch meetings.

The Mavericks beat the Thunder to move into the championship series with the winner of the Eastern Conference. Can you believe that basketball is being played in late May and into June? I remember when each sport had a season and didn't overlap into the next sport. Thank goodness I went to college when I did because I was able to go from playing football right into basketball and then baseball. Now the sports that aren't in season are practicing while others are being played and kids must decide which they want to play. It takes a top flight athlete to be able to play more than one sport now. What a shame.

Speaking of college sports, did you know that they have an NCAA bass fishing championship tournament? Also the women's softball championship tournament begins the "super regionals" today. Check out ESPN.

2011-05-25T07:33:00.002-05:00

Another late night for me. Casey, Carolyn and I watched a movie, "Get Low" with Robert Duvall, last night and then talked until after midnight. Here it is 7:40 and I'm the only one up. It's so easy for Carolyn and I to enjoy Casey's presence. We have been able to communicate so well for many years. Casey is the one member of the family that has visited us wherever we have been and I have visited Casey while he was living in London, Japan, Hawaii and Southern California. He has visited us in West Yellowstone and on his way home on this trip plans to go through Buena Vista, CO to see where we have spent the last two summers and plan to go back to next year. I've fished with him in Kerrville, on the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri and on the Madison and Yellowstone Rivers in Montana. What a nephew.

In sports, the Miami Heat won in overtime and are now up 3-1. The Dallas Mavericks try to end their series with Oklahoma tonight in Dallas.

2011-05-24T06:47:00.002-05:00

My nephew arrived yesterday afternoon and what pleasure it is to see and talk to him. He is on a motorcycle ride and his route is the "dotted" roads. You know the "scenic roads". He lives in Southern California with his wife and daughter. He tells me he needed to just get away and recharge his batteries and I guess riding with the wind is doing just that. We, Carolyn, Casey and I sat and talked until late last night ( at least it's late or me, 10:30). Then Carolyn and I watched the end of the Maverick game, Casey plans to be here a couple of days before heading to Colorado, Utah, Northern California and home.

The Mavericks trailed by 13 points with about 3:30 left in the game and I told Carolyn that the Thunder were going to win. We weren't watching the game but I'd catch the score every now and then. When our conversation broke up we cleared the dinner dishes (finally) Casey went to bed and the Mavs were down by three. C and I then watched Dirk make two free throws with 6 seconds left to tie the game. In overtime the Mavs took a five point lead and maintained the lead to go on and win. They now lead the series 3-1. It looks like the Heat and Mavs will be playing in the finals. I haven't been fishing so I can't report. After Casey leaves I'll be doing some.

2011-05-22T08:49:00.002-05:00

The park's pizza party was a big success. Diana did a good job organizing it and the food was good and the entertainment fun. The local senior center's ukulele band played some songs that we all could sing. Now it brought up something that I already knew but was shocked at the reality of it. After the party (which was at noon) I got thinking about the wild parties I threw or went to in my younger days (lasting very late even into the night early morning hours) where we sure didn't sing with a ukulele band. The reality that set in was I'm getting much older. One beer and then the switch to "root beer", no hitting on the women (I'm happily married now). Then to top it all off come home and take a nap! Does that say a lot or what?

The weather stays hot and since it's a weekend I won't go fishing. I'll try to get some things done today so I can go tomorrow. The Dallas Mavericks regained the home court advantage by defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder last night. They built a big lead and then had enough left to hang on and win. Heat/Bulls play today. The women's softball regional tournaments are on and fun to watch. Must get busy and vacuum and fix a wading sandal. Tight lines!

2011-05-21T08:00:00.002-05:00

I looked at the weather forecast and there is no rain in sight. I don't think I want as much rain that caused what happened in the accompanying picture but we could sure use some. Bill and Dianne are doing a lot of fishing and their latest report is in the "report" column.

I imagine everyone received the email from Danny Wheat about the meeting location change. Being retired I liked the lunch meeting but maybe we can get more people in the evenings so that's OK with me too.

For you sport fans this weekend starts the women's softball regional playoffs. The games are carried on ESPN or ESPN 2 and the Texas teams might be on FSS (Fox sports southwest) (channel 894 if you have the HD tier and channel 44 if you don't). The NBA playoffs continue this weekend and don't they seem to go on for ever?

2011-05-20T08:54:00.003-05:00

I've been having trouble getting on my blog to write and edit so I'm now on my laptop and everything appears to be ok. Google needs to get on the ball since many others are having the same problem. We didn't have very many people at the meeting Thursday and that's a shame as Danny did a nice job. He is really putting in a lot of effort to improve the HCFF. I haven't been fishing in a couple of days and I'm getting restless. In sports, since I would like to see Dallas and Chicago in the finals they both lost the second game of their series. At home no less! I'm sorry about this little article but I had wonderful words of wisdom the days I couldn't get on to post them!

2011-05-18T08:50:00.003-05:00

May meeting is tomorrow. Billy/Gene's at 11:30 The Dallas Mavericks led by Dirk Nowitski's 48 points won the first game of the best of seven with Oklahoma. They led all took the lead in the 2nd quarter and were never really threatened thereafter. Miami and Chicago play game two tonight. I'm making a prediction of a Dallas/Chicago final. The way the Mavericks are shooting right now I think they'll go all the way.

Another prediction is that we will receive some rain this week. I don't know how much but my sage has a few flowers on it and each time it gets only a few we seem to get some rain. We sure need rain to end this drought statewide. I haven't been down to the river in a couple of days but you might want to check out Bill's report in the fishing report column. I plan on going either tomorrow afternoon or Friday morning.

The other day while fishing with Danny at the pond I used a couple of flies that I saw in Southwest Fly Fishing magazine. I caught fish with both of them. The articles accompanying the directions of how to tie them, mentioned that they were used in ponds and not so much in rivers. Interesting.

2011-05-17T07:02:00.005-05:00

What a good time I had fishing with Danny yesterday morning. I caught a lot of sunfish and had a ball doing it. The bluegill ran from 4 to 8 inches but most put a nice bend in the #3 wt rod I was using. Danny was disappointed that we didn't catch any catfish but I wasn't since the bluegill were so eager to take the numerous flies that I tried out. I hope we do it again.

HCFF MEETING THURSDAY 11:30 at Billy Gene's. There is a board meeting starting at 10:30 and everyone is welcome to attend it. This is the last meeting for a couple of months.

2011-05-16T07:44:00.002-05:00

I received a nice telephone call from Danny yesterday. He asked me if I wanted to do a little fishing and naturally I said yes. I'm headed out to his house this morning and I'm not sure where we are going to fish. I always like to fish with someone so the experience can be shared. I don't know if we'll be wading or if we'll be fishing in a pond. It's always a fun experience to go with Danny because he knows so many people and he takes me to places that I'd never be able to fish by myself. I'm looking forward to having fun this morning. I'll report how we did tomorrow.

The Thunder finally put away the Grizzlies and Chicago routed the Miami Heat in the first game of the Eastern Conference Championship series. Dallas and Oklahoma play Tuesday.

2011-05-15T07:02:00.003-05:00

Another gorgeous morning and I'm going to try and get to the river early. I know the fish are waiting for me. In fact I think I'll get around right now and head down there. I'll continue this later.... 9:50 AM I just got back from the river and I think these fish are not early morning fish. They didn't start taking the fly until the last hour. Now was it the time, the fly, the presentation or the spot where I was fishing? Each time you go out these things always enter into the results. There are more but you get the drift. I guess that's the challenge I like and what makes fishing so much more than casting and reeling in your line.

2011-05-14T06:09:00.003-05:00

A few, (seven) of us showed up to see Mike off but Mike had other things that had to be done so without him there we just talked and talked. It seems as though I pick up something new relating to fishing or tying each time I go to lunch with "the boys". Remember the next meeting is this coming Thursday at 11:30 at Billy Gene's. Let's try to get together one more time before people split for the summer.

I found out that Marty Banks was in an accident and is sore but doing OK. She was broadsided by someone that was on the cell phone at the time. Should be a state law "no phone while driving"! Get better soon, Marty.

The weather right now is perfect for fishing. Mid 80's with cooler nights. Get out there in the morning and wet your line. I know some sun fish and bass are eagerly awaiting to take your fly. What are you waiting for? The Memphis Grizzlies won by 12 last night to send their series with the Oklahoma Thunder to the seventh game. This is the only series to reach the seventh game so far this year. They play tomorrow with the winner taking on Dallas for the Western Conference championship. It's getting close for the college softball and baseball championship tournaments to start. A good time for some entertaining TV.

2011-05-12T07:27:00.000-05:00

ROMEO LUNCH--FRIDAY 11:30 GUADALUPE GRILL AND OYSTER BAR. Say farewell to Mike Andrews. He is moving north on Saturday. Last chance to say goodbye to a real nice man and a good fisherman.

2011-05-11T07:52:00.003-05:00

Just a short fishing report today. I went to the Ingram loop crossing yesterday and upstream from the bridge is deep in some parts and I decided not to go that direction. Instead I went down river and it was shallow and slippery with a lot of dark green moss on the bottom. I then drove to Bear Street crossing and went upstream to the rapids. I caught one bass and several sun fish. I've had better luck closer to home.

I must get around as the water to the homes is going to be shut off this AM and not turned back on until later in the afternoon.

2011-05-10T07:00:00.002-05:00

It's nice to have good friends. I was moaning and groaning yesterday about how the wind can talk me out of going fishing. I received an email this morning from Bill and I appreciate the reminder, Doug, I find that if I wait for the wind to go away in Kerrville I might never fish. You know what they say about combating wind. More rod, bigger leader and shorter cast. Yesterday there was wind but I fished a #4 weight rod and went from 4X to a 2X leader and had no problems. Cast are 30 ft. or less. Bill Thanks for the info Bill. I plan on going out this morning no matter what the weather is like. So wind or not here I come!

The NBA playoffs continued last night and the Heat and Thunder won. OKC won in triple overtime over the Grizzlies. The Heat won in overtime to take a 3-1 lead over the Celtics. Nice close games and it appears that neither of last year's championship teams will be in the hunt this year. Move over old timers.

2011-05-09T06:55:00.002-05:00

Once again as I look out the window I'm being talked out of going to the river. The trees are moving pretty good and the flags are blowing. I'll keep an eye out and see if it dies down some. I made a couple of cork poppers over the weekend and I'm anxious to try them out. I just may go and take my chances. With the temperature rising I need to be on the river early.

The Mavericks swept the LA Lakers and did it big 122-86. In the December 17th blog I wrote that the Spurs might be the second best team in Texas and I was right. The Lakers went out with absolutely no class as a couple of dirty cheap shots were taken as their composure collapsed. I was embarassed for Kobe as he never would be associated with dirty play. He took the loss with dignity. I'm sure the two Lakers that were ejected made their mothers proud on Mother's Day. Tonight Boston and Miami and OKC and Memphis play their fourth games. The Heat and Grizzlies lead 2-1.

ROMEO lunch Friday

2011-05-07T08:11:00.002-05:00

The weather has been talking me out of doing some things I should be doing. No, not the ones I should really be doing, like cleaning up the shed or spraying weeds or washing and polishing the fifth wheel, but the real important ones like fishing or walking for my exercise. I mean after all at my age being healthy is much more important than the looks of the vehicles or the yard. Isn't it?? I easily convince myself not to walk because it's too hot or don't go fishing because the wind is blowing etc. etc. I've got to get over that hurdle. After all we are NOT going to Colorado for the summer. The summer trips are selfishly for me to fish and Carolyn has been so good to go along with that for years I decided to take her where she wants to go this September. We are going to take in some areas that we have been wanting to see for quite some time. Carolyn has a cousin that she wants to see just outside of Jackson, MS so on our way to the east coast we will stop by and see her. We plan to see the northern end of Florida, Savannah GA, the coast of South Carolina and North Carolina, the Biltmore Estate in Asheville NC and the eastern part of Tennessee. From there we'll stop and visit Ron Lowry on our way to Nashville. I hope to do some fishing with Ron. Then we head home through Arkansas to visit Aunt Alice who is 93 and doing well the last time I heard. It should be a fun trip and one we'll be taking by ourselves for a change ( at least at this time it's only us). I don't know how long we'll be gone but it could run into a couple of months.

The Mavs made it three in a row over the Lakers and could sweep the series with a win in the next game. How sweet that would be. Chicago won convincingly last night and Miami and Boston, Memphis and OKC play today. Get out on the river and let me know how you do.

2011-05-05T08:20:00.003-05:00

Those members of the HCFF Club who are considering attending the Gulf Coast Conclave ( EXPO ) at the Crown Plaza Riverwalk Hotel in San Antonio on May 5, 6 & 7th. can find the complete Agenda of the meeting and register by getting on http://www.gulfcoastfff.org/ .

I went down to the river below my house early yesterday morning. It was still cool out and I decided to try a homemade cork "popper" that was a nice green color. On the second cast I had a bass take it and give me a nice fight before I was able to get him into my hands. I continued to use this fly and proceeded to bring four more to my hands. None of them were very big with most of them around eight to nine inches. I wonder if these fish were part of the planting that the club did a couple of years ago. They looked like Guadalupe pure strain bass. (they didn't have me guessing what they were) After the bass got through taking the popper I downsized and put on a pmx and caught eight to ten bluegill. All in all a nice couple of hours of fishing.

The Dallas Mavericks put it to the LA Lakers last night to take a 2-0 lead in there semi-final series. They now go home to see if they can lose them out, Chicago evened their series with Atlanta and now they head to Atlanta for game three. Some interesting things happening in round two in the NBA.

2011-05-04T07:08:00.002-05:00

It looks like a day to be on the river somewhere! It appears there is no wind and the temperature is rising. It's 45 right now at 7:09 and the heater just shut off here in the house. That being said, I'm heading for the river soon. As soon as I feel I can withstand the cold I'll be there. Life is good!!!

The Heat went up 2-0 on the Celtics last night and the Oklahoma City Thunder evened their series with Memphis. Mavs/Lakers and Atlanta/Chicago play tonight. During the commercials of the program we were watching we'd flip it to the ballgame and Miami and Boston were tied 80-80. The next time we flipped it to TNT it was 93-80 Miami. I think both Chicago and the Lakers will even their series tonight.

Get to some water today with your rod and reel as it's going to be really nice!

2011-05-02T08:14:00.002-05:00

It took years but we finally got him. Osama bites the dust. I don't think it will change the scenery much as the radicals will just keep trying to kill the "infidels". How can so many people be filled with so much hate. No wonder you never see any of them smile. Congrats to the SEAL team that took him out.

Do you know what that wet stuff is outside? It's called rain in case you've forgotten. I hope we get it all day long. Have you noticed the temperature? It's 47 degrees as I write at 9 o'clock this morning. A bit different than a couple of days ago.

The Memphis Grizzlies kept their dominance of their opponents alive yesterday as they beat the Thunder to go up 1-0 in the series. They led all the way and it wasn't as close as the final score. The Heat dominated the Celtics and that series will determine whether or not Miami has finally meshed as a team and if the Celtics like the Spurs are getting too old. Chicago plays Atlanta and the Lakers take on the Mavs tonight.

2011-05-01T08:08:00.003-05:00

The weather sure isn't conducive to fly fish today. As I look out the window the trees are doing the Hula. The wind is blowing. It's hot and humid and it's a weekend day. Guess I'll stay inside and watch TV. Now Tuesday might be a different matter. When I really want to go fishing I tell myself "it's cool in the river". We went by the dam that backs up the city lake and the water was barely coming over the top and the river below my house is low. I want to try a different spot but I'm not sure where.

Many things are happening or trying to be done in Washington and I'm biting my lip so I won't rant and rave today. Maybe next week I'll just have to let it out.

2011-04-30T08:36:00.002-05:00

The "Duncan Era" is over or at least it should be. The Spurs gave away the game last night with errant passes and bad judgement on too many plays. Tim threw away the ball many times and he doesn't move much anymore when he doesn't have the ball or when they work the pick and roll. Tiago got several points going to the basket. It became very evident in this series that the Spurs need more big men. While the smaller lineup can score they can't rebound with the likes of Randolph and Gasol. The better teams have 3 or four big men. The Champion Lakers have 3 players around 7 feet. The Spurs need to find some big men or they will be a thing of the past. Congratulations to the Memphis team who met every challenge the Spurs made and played with more poise in the tight situations than the more experienced Spurs did. I'd like Randolph to be a Spur.

2011-04-29T08:07:00.002-05:00

I made it to the river yesterday for a couple of hours and caught a dozen or so bluegill. I've been using about a size 10 Parachute Madam X (PMX). I try to dry it after each fish so it will ride on top of the water. It will get hit under the water as it swings down stream. I put on a much larger one and got no takers. I went down stream and caught a half dozen or so in one spot. Look for deeper water with the current running but not to swiftly. It's about time I try somewhere else other than below our park.

The Spurs try to stay alive tonight against Memphis but it will be an uphill battle. All the other first round series ended last night with the Mavs, Hawks and Lakers winning.

2011-04-28T08:23:00.002-05:00

The Spurs have a little more heart than I thought. Carolyn and I spent between 2 and 3 hours in the emergency room last night so I didn't get to see much of the game (our neighbors fell after eating at a local cafe and called us. So we picked them up and took them to the ER). As we were about to leave we saw Manu hit the shot with 2.2 seconds left which turned out being a two pointer. They fouled and sent Randolph to the line and we left thinking the game was over. We turned on the TV when we got home and low and behold the Spurs are still playing. Manu and George Hill hit free throws in the clutch and kept the Spurs hopes alive. It's an uphill fight but could be done. This game should lift their spirits and maybe they'll pull it out.

I played bridge yesterday so I didn't go fishing. However, with the cards I was dealt I should have been on the river. I'll try to get there tomorrow.

2011-04-27T09:00:00.002-05:00

Yesterday wasn't as good as Monday at the river but I did still catch a half dozen or so. Nothing of size like the crappie of the day before. I went as far upstream as the city dam and got almost nothing up there. The river is really low and to catch nicer fish you need to find a little deeper water. The smaller fish are anywhere in the river from shallow to deep water. The bottom isn't slippery right now and that makes the wading easy.

The Spurs play tonight and it will be interesting to see if they have any pride. Manu said it best about the second half when he said he didn't see any fire in anybodys' eyes. I think he hit the nail on the head. It almost looked like the Spurs weren't interested. Maybe there is something going on that the public doesn't know about. Friction between players? It will be interesting to see how they come out tonight.

2011-04-26T06:53:00.003-05:00

Wouldn't you just know it. I've changed from my chest pack to my lanyard and therefore I'm not taking my camera with me as I fish the river. Yesterday I caught a 13 inch crappie and no camera. The two largest fish I've caught in the river i don't have record of because both times I left my camera at home. This crappie was not only long he had a large girth. As I was holding him up I got thinking that I could get two nice fillets off of him and then reality set in and I thought I'm not going to eat anything out of this section of the river. He is now swimming and doing his thing. I had a good couple of hours down below my house catching over a dozen bluegill ranging from 3 to 7 inches in length. I also got one 8 inch bass and then the large crappie. I got them all on the 6' #2 wt. Always fun to catch something on a light rod. I am once again eager to get back to the river after yesterday.

The Spurs are in trouble as they looked like a defeated group of inexperienced players last night as Memphis put it to them. The Spurs seem to be rushing everything and are way out of sync. The offense is terrible and to me "Pop" needs to think about a new one as everyone seems to know what they are going to do. They might win one more game but I don't think they'll win the series.

Those of you were going to help Mike move this Thursday don't go to his house because he isn't going to move until May and has a moving company coming and won't need any help. But thanks for thinking of him.

2011-04-25T08:09:00.002-05:00

Just when I thought the wind wasn't a factor it decides to get wet outside. I'm planning on doing a little fishing this morning but as I look out my window I see someone walking to the clubhouse with an umbrella. Hmmm... I guess I'll just wait awhile.

The Spurs, Lakers, Mavs and the Magic are all having trouble as the favorites in their first round series. At this moment the Magic are in the most trouble trailing the Hawks 1-3 with the Spurs behind 1-2 and the Lakers and Mavs even with the Hornets and Trailblazers 2-2. Most of the games have been close with each team having a chance in the fourth quarter. The Spurs play in Memphis tonight.

2011-04-24T08:29:00.002-05:00

Hate the weather! Too hot and to windy! I can fish in the heat but you know how tough it is to fly fish in the wind. I'm going to try and get out tomorrow as the forecast doesn't say it's going to be windy. Not sure where I'll go but I know many sunfish are waiting for my flies.

The Spurs looked terrible last night and it sure doesn't look like they are the more experienced team. They got into some really bad habits during the regular season but won in spite of it. Now that they are in the playoffs the same mistakes are killing them. Late in the fourth quarter with the score close they turned the ball over four straight times. I get so frustrated at guys making that much money and make stupid mental mistakes that should have been corrected in high school. Parker has looked like he's throwing the games or shaving points he's been so bad. Now wait I said he looks like he is not that in reality he is. Manu's injury is hampering him but he's excused because I know he is giving 100%. I said last week that they might not make it out of the first round. They've dug themselves into a hole and I'm not sure they can get out. The Mavs are also having trouble as the Trailblazers evened up their series. It's interesting but yet it's still pro basketball and the refs give every benefit of the doubt to the offensive player. Ugh. if Carolyn wasn't a Spurs fan I might not be watching.

2011-04-23T08:35:00.002-05:00

I have a funeral to go to today and in honor of this person I won't make any stupid remarks or jokes. I was lucky to know this person as she was a sweet, loving and independent women. She did a wonderful job in raising her children as all that I've met seem nice and were here for her in her last weeks and days. She was upbeat until her death and I hope that I can face mine with the same dignity and grace that she did.

2011-04-22T07:39:00.002-05:00

Due to the fact that fuel prices just keep going up and may influence what we do this summer, I've been checking prices the last couple of weeks. I check them in the cities where we usually fill up. In most of the cities the prices have stayed about the same this last week except for Roswell, NM. Diesel has gone up 22 cents in the last week to $4.37. Thank goodness we can bypass it a be fine. In Carlsbad the price went down a penny. Go figure. We haven't decided at what price keeps us from going. I'm of the mind that we go and pay the piper. Of course it's basically my fishing trip and Carolyn is nice enough to let me have the summer fishing.

My question for the day is, If the nation is in dire straits financially, and it is, and something needs to be done quickly, why are all of our elected officials out of Washington D.C.? I'm hoping the debt ceiling isn't raised. From my understanding of the limit we can still spend money but we can't borrow any more. Sounds fiscally responsible to me. Otherwise you keep spending and raising the limit and spend more and raise the limit. It has already become a revolving circle. If I were the Republicans I would raise taxes on millionaires and billionaires. Instead of raising them on people earning $250,000 or more. Set the income higher and take away the class warfare propaganda from Obama. You know every election cycle you're going to here it from the democrats. According to them the republicans would let the Seniors starve, not educate the youth, deprive people of medical treatments, etc etc.. How can they survive living amongst us? We are just plain evil. It's not that we want the best for the country and not special interest groups,, no, we're just bad.

2011-04-21T07:57:00.002-05:00

"What a difference a day makes, twenty-four little hours.....". Dinah Washington's hit song seems appropriate after last night's Spurs game. I know it was more than 24 hours but maybe it should be "what a difference Manu makes...! Manu wasn't very sharp offensively but his hustle and steals made up for that and the Spurs hung on to beat Memphis to even the series. Oklahoma and the Lakers also won.

I was going to go fishing this morning but z I look out my window the winds are moving the flags so I don't know. I think I'll go anyway and see what I can do. I need to get out there and try my skills (if I have any). i hope you are getting more fishing time than I am. Daily commitments and lousy weather seem to be getting in the way of my casting. Got to get going...bye.

2011-04-20T09:25:00.004-05:00

Baseball season, basketball playoffs, Stanley Cup playoffs, golf tournaments, college baseball and softball ready to start their championship playoffs all lead me to the conclusion that sports are happening. Most of these things a will be broadcast by ESPN or one of their other channels. I remember when ESPN first came on the air in the 1970's. Originally it was ESP, Entertainment and sports programming. To fill 24 hours a day they had to broadcast Canadian Football, Austrailian rules football, tennis wrestling and many other sports. I remember they once televised the Indiana high school basketball tournament draw. I had a satellite dish at the time since TV cables companies weren't carrying ESPN yet. They have really come a long way since the idea of covering Connecticut sporting events with a local network popped into Bill Rasmussen's head. If you are a sports fan you should thank ESPN every now and then for the coverage they provide and the improvements they've made in the coverage. Have a good one and enjoy televised sports!

2011-04-18T07:48:00.002-05:00

I went fishing down at the river and caught a dozen or so small blue gill and one bass. I didn't stay too long as the wind came up early in the morning. I used one fly only and it was a small parachute madam x. It is a dry for those of you not familiar with the fly. I got my two weight out again as I had been using my #3 wt. Everything I catch on the 2 wt. feels like a monster. The smallest fish will put quite a bend in the 6 foot rod.

There were some close games and a couple of upsets in NBA play yesterday. Both the #1 and #2 seeds lost. The Spurs and Lakers lost their opening games and home court advantage. I think the Lakers will bounce back but I'm not sure about the Spurs. The Spurs look like they are playing not to lose instead of playing to win.

2011-04-17T07:49:00.002-05:00

The HCFF April meeting is at B&B with a picnic instead of business. Come early and fish or just come to eat and see friends. Be sure to bring chairs.

The NBA playoff games produced close games and one upset. Atlanta defeated Orlando. Indiana led most of the game against Chicago and then blew it in the last two minutes by not making free throws and not giving the ball to the right guy. Today the west goes at it with the Spurs taking on Memphis at noon. The three other games will be later on today.

I just have one question today. What is your take of a man who heads the country, doesn't lead, calls for bipartisanship, has a more than a year left in his term and is campaigning already and is railing against his opposition?

2011-04-16T07:20:00.002-05:00

It looks like we will have good weather for the get-together Thursday evening so get your money to Danny. Bring your chairs and let's have a good time relaxing and chatting the evening away.

The NBA playoffs begin with the Eastern teams playing today and tomorrow the Western Conference. First round match-ups are Indiana/Chicago, Philadelphia/Miami, Atlanta/Orlando and New York/Boston. In the west the pairings are: Memphis/San Antonio, New Orleans/LA, Portland/Dallas and Denver/Oklahoma city. I think five of the teams will win pretty easily but Dallas, San Antonio and Oklahoma City could get upset. The Spurs don't seem to match up well with Memphis.

The Democrats are at it again. Trying to scare people and trying to divide the country into rich and poor. They are saying the seniors are going to starve if the Republican budget passes and the seniors will be without medicare, etc. etc. Ryan's budget doesn't affect anyone on medicare that is 65 or older. The same old lies by Pelosi and gang. They've been saying this every election year for decades. I wish the people in the coastal states would wise up. They keep sending Pelosi, Boxer, Mukulski, Maxine Waters etc. etc. Why are both coasts so liberal? If something doesn't change there will be a real revolution which might become violent. Let's hope the people go for a better change than we got in 2008.

2011-04-14T08:28:00.002-05:00

R.O.M.E.O. LUNCH TODAY

The Spurs lost last night in a meaningless game but the big news is that Manu hurt his arm. I don't think it will keep him from playing since the next game isn't until Sunday when the Spurs start the first round of the playoffs with Memphis.

I haven't been fishing so I can't report on the river but I hope to try it out soon. I don't have much news and even though I have some things to say about what's going on in the country I don't want to make this a political blog. However, I did say what's his name would want to raise taxes.

2011-04-13T08:11:00.002-05:00

LUNCH TOMORROW See you at 11:30 Guadalupe River Oyster Bar and Grill

Get your money for the picnic to Danny so he can make plans.

Not much is happening so these reminders are all for today.

2011-04-12T06:57:00.003-05:00

I braved the wind yesterday morning for about an hour and caught a half dozen bluegill. The wind came up and I quit fishing for the day. I went to the Arcadia loop and went upstream a little and over to the north shore by the cement wall. The water wasn't that cold as I waded it in my short nylon fishing pants. The river bottom was not slippery but I do use a wading staff. I had on my felt bottom sandals. There was a hatch going on but I had tied on a "bug eyed nymph" and got one bite. I saw a couple of fish rise and I decided to try the top. I tied on a small PMX and quickly stripped in six fish. The fish were all of the smaller persuasion.

I have a prediction. I predict that when the President speaks to the country, he will want to raise taxes. Now I know I'm stepping out on a limb here but if I remember right the democrats are a party of tax and spend. (How could I forget) Now he (the prez) will say we need new taxes in order to pay off some of our debt. That wouldn't be too bad except for the fact that even if we paid off our debt the taxes would stay in place and there would be more money to be spent. If only Carolyn and I could just get more income if we were to over spend. When the government over spends it raises taxes. Haven't they already done that by not doing something about gas prices? How nice. The next thing will be to increase the spending for education. What a waste. We've been doing this year after year and education has not improved but D.C.'s answer to failing departments is to pour more money into them. Get everybody and every department dependent on government handouts. It doesn't make sense to me for the states to send money to Washington and then have them send back less to the states and with strings attached. Great reasoning there. I just want to yell out to the government "GET OUT OF OUR LIVES".

2011-04-11T07:30:00.002-05:00

The wetness you see outside is from the rain, you read this right, rain we had last night. Will wonders never cease.

I received a call from Elgin yesterday and he wanted me to tell anyone thinking of going to the gulf to fish to forget it. It has been windy since he and Dianne went down there a week ago Sunday. Thought I'd pass that on. Speaking of wind i was going to go fishing this morning but the forecast is for winds around 17 to 20 miles per hour. I may stay home. The other thing about hot air is the president is going to campaign oops speak about his budget or he's amending his budget??? Let's hope he's a onetermer. Boy did Rory McIlroy fold yesterday in the Masters. I actually felt sorry for the young man. It was an exciting finish as nine golfers had or shared the lead on the back nine. Tiger Woods looked a lot like the Tiger of a few years ago except he couldn't make short putts. I think he is back. The winner Charl Schwartzel of South Africa birdied the last four holes to win.

The NBA finishes up their regular season this week with the playoffs starting Saturday. The Spurs play tomorrow night at LA and then the following night at Phoenix.

2011-04-10T07:52:00.002-05:00

It's warm water fish time. I just know the sunfish are waiting to give us a fight and pleasant memories. Throw in a few of those pesky Guadalupe Bass and a good time will be had by one and all. It looks like the weather is to be in the eighties for the next week or so and no rain in sight. Early morning appears to be the time to fish as many of the days will be cloudy in the AM. I got a fishing(?) report from Bill and Dianne on Friday from the gulf. I quote "Wind! Wind! Wind! ". Now there is a coastal report that is short and tells all. Stay in the hill country.

The Spurs seem to be over their bad spell and are playing better at the present time. With home court advantage they may make at least the second round although if they start with Memphis it could be a tough series.

Sometimes when you surf the TV you luck out and find something you might want to watch but forgot about. It happened last night. We were about to watch the Spurs game and during a commercial I happened to go to ESPN and there it was the NCAA Ice Hockey championship game. Now I caught one of the semi-finals (Minnesota Duluth/ Notre Dame) and knew that UMD made it into the finals. Last night's game between the University of Michigan and UMD went into sudden death overtime. I recorded that part because we were watching the Spurs game and right after the basketball game was over we switched back to the hockey game and watched UMD score in overtime to win the school's first championship. It was exciting and congratulations to the Bulldogs in defeating a division 1 school to get it.

I've also been watching the"Master's" golf tournament. (Does that give you an idea of how boring my life is?) I will say that the coverage of gold is so much better now that they can record and playback so quickly. You get to see many more shots this way. Tiger missed so many putts by fraction of inches that if they'd fallen he would be leading. He looked more like his old self except for the putting. I' pulling for the youngster from Northern Ireland to win it. He's either been tied for the lead or leading after each round.

2011-04-08T06:36:00.002-05:00

The government might shutdown. What's wrong with that? Maybe it's what we need. They won't be able to spend more money than we have.

Just when I thought the people in Wisconsin had really done a dumb thing I find out that the conservative judge has the lead again in his recall election. With him being elected it looks like the law to limit the collective bargaining to salaries will be upheld in the state Supreme Court. To me it makes sense that the government should have the right to limit the amount of money they spend on benefits for the workers. Otherwise it would break the state financially. It bothers me that some goverment employees make more when they retire than while they are working. It is impossible to sustain the payout as the life expectancy age continues to climb yet the retirement age is still 65. Another idea is to pay for disability retirement until age 65 and after that drop the payouts. They would then have to live on their retirement plan. Pay them the amount they were making up to the retirement age. I have a friend who is retired with a disability and now makes almost double what he was making while he was working. The only way to keep this going is to raise taxes and the taxpayers are taxed enough! Another thing that stuns me is that the "bargaining" done in almost every line of business isn't really a bargain it's just about how much the raise will be. Let's take baseball for an example. Let's say a guy is in his last year of a contract, he is making millions and hits .200. His salary won't come down and if I were the owner I'd write into the contract that you must hit at least .250 or make no more than x amount of errors or have an ERA of no more than 4.50 or something concrete that the player must reach otherwise when negotiations start your salary might decrease rather than increase. After all it is all about a man playing a kids game.

2011-04-07T07:57:00.002-05:00

The Spurs had an easy time of it last night as they crushed the Kings in the second half. San Antonio wasn't very good in the first half but finally woke up to win handily.

I haven't been fishing this week so I have no reports to give you. I'm thinking of going tomorrow morning but we'll see when the time comes. This weekend Carolyn is working at Creations for the annual quilting "shop hop". I'll be home awaiting the pest control guys and then I think I'll tie a few flies. I'd better start stocking up for the summer. So far I just haven't been in the mood to sit and tie a half dozen or so at one time. I have tied a few for local fishing but not trout flies. Get out on the river and do some fishing and enjoy the great outdoors!

2011-04-06T08:34:00.002-05:00

CONGRATULATIONS TEXAS A&M AGGIES!!! The Aggie women's basketball team won the national championship last night when they defeated Notre Dame. It was interesting that both A&M and Notre Dame defeated teams that had beat them 3 times during the season on their way to the finals.

The older I get the more I do and don't understand people and things. I mean look at what is happening around us. You're going to have to prove you have health insurance but people won't have to prove their citizenship. I don't understand that but I do get it. People that espouse this type of thing want to do away with borders and are in favor of "one worldism" if that's the right word. I never thought it would be in this country. Another thing I don't understand is the refusal of some to admit that we are in financial trouble at every level of government, city, county, state and federal. I do get it however. They are more concerned about getting re-elected than solving the problem. I don't understand that some people want schools to NOT fly the American Flag. This is the U.S.A. and if flying our flag bothers you go back to where you came from. I get it, one world again. I think the Germans and French are way ahead of us in one area of thinking. They realize that ethnic diversity isn't working. I never thought I'd admit the French were ahead of us on anything. It seems as if common sense isn't used anymore. Look at what unions are doing right now in Wisconsin. If they win they break the state and many of the workers will be laid off or maybe not get paid at all. It makes me wonder if the truth is being taught in school about where money that the government has comes from. The only money government has comes from us through taxation. Do some of us believe the government just prints what they need. (oops maybe that's what's happening today)

2011-04-05T07:53:00.004-05:00

It was ugly but UConn won last night. Butler couldn't hit anything. It was a tough night for both teams but in the end the better team won. Butler looked like they rushed everything. One of their stars looked as if the ball was oily as he had a hard time handling it. Another good tournament with lots of close games makes each "March Madness" worth waiting for.

The Spurs play at Atlanta tonight and it's come down to winning each game so they will have the home court advantage. The playoffs are around the corner and can't begin soon enough for me.

Get your money for the picnic to Danny. Let's have a good turn out.

2011-04-04T08:14:00.000-05:00

Let me start off the week trying to get some things in perspective. Let's see, hmmm, the mess in Libya doesn't look like the outcome the administration wanted is going to happen without committing some troops. You might run a covert operation but you tell everyone before you do it. Isn't that overt? In 2010 the Democrats had the majority in the Congress and the White House but didn't pass a budget and now when the Republicanspresent one the Democrats will complain that they are stealing from the poor and middle class. We are running a multi trillion dollar debt and deficit and the only thing the President will say is he's running for reelection. What a leader? This is the worst administration ever. The President votes present just like he did in Illinois and the U.S. Senate. We are still hated by our enemies and are driving our staunchest allies away. We can protect the 38th parallel in Korea but can't close our border with Mexico. If we lie to congess it's felony but if they lie to us it's politics. Here is a site that you can go to and see what's happening to our country's thinking process. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yAyCdfOXvec It is really sad when individuals, like the government workers are more interested in bankrupting the state and country than working something out. There is no right guaranteed by the constitution of having the government provide medical insurance or retirement plans.

2011-04-03T09:22:00.001-05:00

Two great games in the NCAA tournament. What a good day to watch college basketball. Butler defeated VCU 70-62 in a game that was closer than the final score. The lead changed hands so often that I lost track. Butler a school of a little over 4200 is in it's second straight final. Their star forward Matt Howard was just 3 for 10 shooting but made 11 of 12 free throws. Jamie Keen for VCU had another good game and should be seen at the next level. He's good inside as well as outside. He had 27 points last night. In the other game UConn defeated Kentucky 56-55. It was another game that had runs as UConn lead by ten at the half. Kentucky erased that lead but couldn't make free throws and lost by one. The Wildcats were 4 for 12 at the free throw line while the Huskies were 9 for 11. If Kentucky shoots 50 % they win. I'll be rooting for Butler tomorrow night. The Spurs try to break a six game losing streak today against the Suns.

2011-04-02T08:18:00.002-05:00

Danny saved my sanity yesterday. He called me and asked me if I wanted to fish with him. It didn't take me long to reply YES! In my haste to get ready I forgot it was trash day forgot to set out the neighbors and our trash. My neighbor is getting up there in age and is a wonderful guy. Tail gunner in WWII. It's much easier for me to take it out. But yesterday I forgot. I did take care of it later. I met Danny around 9:30 and we fished until around 12. There were plenty of fish and we did catch some. I caught 3 with one of them being a very nice fish and Danny caught 2 with one of them a twin to my nice one. The fish seem very healthy. We were joined by Bob Banks and around noon Bill and Dianne dropped by to eat lunch. It's nice to have friends that have the same interests.
The "Final Four" play today so I'll be in front of the TV set later in the afternoon and all evening. Speaking of basketball, I know why I hate pro ball. These guys make millions playing a game and last night the Spurs looked worse than my high school teams during the last two minutes of the game. They looked like they had never been pressured before and didn't know what to do. The big three each had their plays that could have won the game. Ginobili and Duncan each missed a free throw and Parker air balled a three pointer from the corner. The Spurs defense stunk up the joint too. They looked terrible and I've written them off as potential champions.

2011-04-01T07:15:00.000-05:00

We had one of our largest turnouts for lunch yesterday as ten of us met and talked about many things. If we can get ten of us at lunch we should be able to get twenty to thirty at our meetings. Danny W announced that Mike Andrews is moving the latter part of April and will need some help loading up his stuff. We all hate to see Mike leave but I'm sure it's necessary or he'd be staying here. Mike's article on sunfish was in the paper the other day and it is well worth reading. Mike writes well and tells of his experiences while fishing. The Spurs lost their fifth in a row and they'd better right the ship soon or they could be in trouble come playoff time. The Lakers look like the team to beat for the title. Right now I think they'll win it handily. They are just too big up front. I don't think anyone can beat them in a seven game series unless it's the Thunder. The way the Spurs are shooting right now they may not make it past the first round. Tomorrow the "Final Four" games will be played and I'll be cheering on Kentucky and Butler.

2011-03-31T08:55:00.000-05:00

Lunch today with the guys. Not much is happening on the home front. It's a down time waiting for the ball games this Saturday. Yeah I know the baseball season is starting but I'm no longer a fan. I was for a lot of years. Growing up I was a Cardinal fan and my idol was Stan "the man" Musial. I was lucky enough to see him play when the Dodgers moved to L.A. He was in the twilight of his career but I got to see him hit. I used to go around and around with one of my friends (Jack Rosele) over who was a better hitter, Ted Williams or Musial. (He might have been right). I made a few World Series games and had tickets to another Series but the Dodgers lost on the last day of the season and then lost the playoff game. I had even taken a three day pass to go to southern Cal to see the games. I started losing interest in baseball when the players started changing teams so often. When they went on strike the first time I really gave up. Here were grown men making oodles of money playing a boys game and they strike. Many a male would have given a body part to be playing for money and the major leaguers strike. I played the game in high school and college and was a 300+ hitter each year and had fun playing it. But to watch a game on TV is like watching grass grow. I'll watch the girls play softball because it's a fast game but baseball, no way. I've rambled enough for today so have a good one.

2011-03-30T07:54:00.002-05:00

R.O.M.E.O. LUNCH TOMORROW!! Come to the Guadalupe River Oyster Bar and Grill and join in on the fun.

Do you ever get the feeling that our elected officials are more interested in maintaining power than doing what is right for the country? I do frequently. This happens from both sides of the aisle. Right now what is going on with the financial problems of the country is amazing. The democrats aren't facing up to the challenge and when and if the republicans bring forth a plan the democrats will not pass it and then they will blame the republicans for cutting programs and shutting down the government. This country is in real trouble and political games are being played. The presidents commission said so and most all economists say so and yet nothing of importance will happen. The situation presents a good argument for term limits. Of course as I've said before if I had my way officials would only be able to serve 6 or 8 years and be salaried during those years but once they have served they would not get a pension or any retirement benefits. They would be like the rest of us and have to provide their own retirement program. Do you think something right might get done if they knew that in a couple of years they'd have to live under the laws they passed? It might change the entire attitude of government. Dream on Doug.

2011-03-28T08:39:00.002-05:00

The final four is set after some thrilling games. Kentucky defeated University of North Carolina 76-69 in a game that was closer than the final score. Virginia Commonwealth University beat Kansas by ten 71-61. University of Connecticut beat Arizona 65-63 and Arizona took two three pointers in the last couple of seconds and missed. Butler University defeated Florida 74-71. We now have the final four . Butler will play VCU at 5:09 on Saturday followed by UConn/Kentucky at 7:49. The two winners meet Tuesday the 4th. I think they will be televised on CBS. One team from the smaller conferences will play for the national championship and I hope they win.

With VCU in the final four what do you think the players from Old Dominion and Hofstra are thinking? They ended up ahead of VCU in their conference. Eleven teams from one conference is way too many to take. Give the "smaller" conferences another team in the tournament. In the Horizon Conference Butler tied with Cleveland State and Milwaukee but only Butler got in the tournament and eleven got in from the Big East. Let's review this. Big East eleven Horizon one. In the Final Four each conference has 1 team. Hmmm. fair??

I wish I was running this tournament. I'd make it a true National Tournament with no bias. I'd take all 32 conference champions and conference tournament winners. Then I'd fill the tournament slots with teams that must have at least 20 wins. I'd take no more than 3 teams from any one conference unless needed. I would then draw for slots of the bracket. I wouldn't seed anyone. How truly unfair that is. Give everyone an equal chance to win. Don't favor any team. It would be the luck of the draw.

Start getting those checks to Danny for the April outing. Let's have a large turnout. Any fishing reports??

2011-03-26T06:50:00.002-05:00

The "gang that can't shoot straight" in Washington D.C. are doing it again. This bunch has sent mixed messages to the world. Qaddafi must go but we aren't going to put ground troops in Libya. What a thing to tell your enemy. We'll be involved only for days not weeks. It's been a week. There doesn't seem to be any plan. How do you get this guy out? Are we going down the slippery slope? As I understood the mission it was to protect the citizens from their leader. We've done that, although we were a week or two late doing it as our leader(?) once again left it up to someone else to lead.

The head of this gang in Washington astounds and aggravates me. We, the United States of America can't drill in the gulf, off shore or in Alaska but the Brazilians can with our blessing. HUH? Does this make any sense? You can drill and we'll buy it from you. Am I missing something? Oh yeah. Who owns a lot of stock in the petroleum company from Brazil ? You guessed it. It's the puppeteer George Soros. I call him that because I believe he could be calling the shots in the executive branch from behind the scenes. He may not write the script but he's probably pulling the strings. We must get rid of this group in 2012.

In sports new the NCAA tournament is down to the round of the elite eight". Four games were played yesterday with two routs and two close games. VCU beat Florida State 72-71 and Kentucky beat the #1 seed Ohio State 62-60. North Carolina routed Marquette 81-63 while Kansas did the same to Richmond 77-57. Today Butler plays Florida at 3:30 and Arizona plays UConn at 6:o5. Tomorrow Kansas plays VCU and Kentucky plays North Carolina.

2011-03-24T07:08:00.005-05:00

Here it's Thursday already and I haven't spouted off for a couple of days. Maybe I should have used the word opined instead of spouted off. Doesn't it sound better? Hmm... I think spring is about over. The temperatures are starting to get up there and I can't navigate around the park without working up a sweat. The redbuds and other blossoming trees are shedding the wonderful colors in favor of leaves of green (which aren't bad either). However the Cedar Waxwings are still here and haven't migrated so maybe we've got a few more days of spring left.

I can't report on how the river is doing since I keep finding that my time doesn't allow me to get there. Either that or the wind is blowing. I'll make it there sometime soon.

I have books to recommend. I might have mentioned them before. It's really a trilogy by Stieg Larsson. I've only read two. You've probably heard of them: The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo, The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Nest and The Girl Who Played With Fire. If you get a chance read the books and then watch the Swedish movie versions, do so. We had four of our friends over yesterday for "movie day" and we watched the first one. Five of us had read the book and we all loved the film (so did the one that hadn't read the book). The film is in Swedish but the subtitles are easy to read and after a few minutes you don't realize you're reading. The scenery of Sweden is used very well and the film left a few things out but nothing that changed the storyline. I'll give it a five out of five star rating.

The Spurs lost last night to Denver 115-112. They played without Duncan who is out indefinitely due to the ankle sprain he received in the last game. That effort on the road was pretty good. Without the the late11-0 run the Nuggets made the Spurs could have won. The NCAA tournament continues today with the "sweet sixteen" round. I'll be cheering on the smaller schools (program wise) like San Diego State, Butler Richmond and VCU.

2011-03-21T07:47:00.002-05:00

Close games were the norm yesterday as nine of the sixteen games were decided by eight or less points. Two games were decided by a point and five were decided by 5 points or less. It's been a great tournament and goes to show you that the committee that picks and seeds these teams aren't very good. In the "sweet sixteen" are two 11th seeds a twelfth seed a ten Five other conferences have one team left.and an eight. The Big East which had eleven members of their conference entered are down to two. The ACC which the"experts" thought was weak this year has three. The Mountain West, SEC and the Big Ten each have two. Five conferences each have one team left playing. Great fun.

It's to be windy the next two days and I hate fishing in the wind. So I won't be going today or tomorrow. Wednesday is bridge and Thursday is tax day. Egads it doesn't appear I'll be fishing this week either. That is not good. Maybe I can squeeze in an hour or two one day. I'll try.

2011-03-20T07:59:00.003-05:00

This is a picture of my high school buddy, John Pirkle, with one of his catches. He is the guy I went to visit in Louisiana in November. He was not ready to do any serious fishing in November as he was just getting acquainted with the area. After I left he found out where to fish and started catching some nice fish. A guide friend has sent him some pictures of huge fish. Maybe a trip to Louisiana next winter might be fun. If he is there next year I'll be down to visit him again.

If you are a basketball fan you have to be liking the NCAA tournament. There have been some really close games that have been fun to watch. If you missed the Butler/ Pitt game you missed one of the craziest finishes ever. Two stupid fouls in the last couple of seconds. The last one with the score tied with less than a second left ninety feet away from the opponents bucket. More games today.

The Spurs used 17 three point baskets to breeze through their game last night. There wasn't a big let down after their win over Dallas. They are a contender!

2011-03-19T08:45:00.002-05:00

A celebration of my friend getting a good report after chemo and radiation treatments took the place of my getting to the river. I happily gave up fishing. You know that there are several things more important than fishing but I can't think of very many. I can think of three right off the top of my head and they are family, Carolyn being #1, friends and health. Isn't funny how our priorities change as we get older. At one time it was important whether my team, be it one I was playing on, coaching or just rooting for was high on my list. I guess I'm maturing but some would debate that. Now, I'm disappointed but realize it's only a game that really doesn't mean anything in the long run. Give me friends and good health and I'll be happy.

All you HCFF members, if you like our meetings at lunch time let Danny know. Send him an e-mail and let your feelings be known. He was disappointed at the turnout last week. I like them so I let him know. Do the same even if you are on the opposite side. I'm sure he could use your input. March Madness continues with a few upsets and some teams hoping to pull off a Cinderella run to the title game. Four of the eleven Big East teams are out and a couple of more will be gone after today. Can't be too quick for me.

The Spurs beat the Mavericks last night and looked like a team that could go all the way. The big three, Tim, Manu and Tony had 80 of the 97 points with Gary Neal leading the bench scoring with 8. Watching the game I was fascinated by how much the Mavs use dirty tactics. I didn't think Dirk played that way but he shoved Manu on a flagrant foul. It wasn't called for and could have led to an injury. Also on one play Terry trailed Hill on a cut and grabbed his waist and it looked like he tackled him and there was no foul called. The dirtiest player on the court was Beaubois. It's one thing to play physically but dirty shots are another thing. This year's Spurs are much more physical than they were last year and don't back down to anyone. There was some payback for the cheap shots.

2011-03-18T10:18:00.003-05:00

There was a small turnout at our meeting yesterday. I hope more people attend the May lunch meeting so we will continue to hold the meetings Thursday mornings at lunch time. I like it because it frees up the evenings. The group that attended were the "regulars" and it seemed as if I was back in the classroom as conversations and laughter were everywhere. We got a new member, I think her name is Jacqueline Black, who found us on the web. She is already a fly fisher and just recently moved to the hill country from Houston. She is an architect. Welcome to HCFF and "God's country" Ms. Black.

The NCAA tournament went mainly according to plan but there were a couple of upsets on day one. Morehead State surprised Louisville and Gonzaga beat St. Johns. Today's games start at 11:15 with Texas playing Oakland. You can watch games all day on many different channels. This is my time of year. I'm sort of glad it's breezy outside. It gives me an excuse to stay in and watch basketball and not go fishing. Oops. Is that a sin or what?

2011-03-16T08:25:00.004-05:00

Lunch meeting tomorrow 11:30.

I didn't get to the river yesterday and I'm not sure when I'll get there. I have things going on the next two days so it might be Friday before I cast again. Am I going through withdrawals? I have tied a few wooley-buggers and I'm anxious to try them out.

The NCAA tournament started yesterday with "play-in games" and a couple more are scheduled for today. If they keep expanding this thing it will be "June Madness" instead of "March Madness". It will run into April anyway. Oh well, it gives me plenty of basketball games to watch.

Once again the President has failed to act. It looks like Qaddafi will maintain his dictatorship in Libya. It didn't help when the head of Intelligence told a Congressional committee a few days ago that Qaddafi would probably repel the rebels. That's real encouraging for them to hear from the U.S. while the President is calling for Qaddafi to step down and leave the country. Obama is still waiting for someone to lead the way to establish a no-fly zone. Why don't the liberals like the President understand that without our leadership nothing gets done. If it does eventually get done it takes forever and is usually too late. France, Italy and the Arab nations have requested a no-fly zone but there still isn't one and the Libyan Air Force is bombing the rebels. The failure to lead by this president is just a character flaw. He let Congress write the terrible health care law. He commissioned a panel to look into our financial problem. They recommended things we need to do to get our financial house in order and he doesn't do a thing that they recommend in his budget that he sent to Congress. He'll let Congress do it. That way no blame can be laid at his feet except that it shows that he isn't a leader, he's just a campaigner. It appears that he doesn't want to make a decision because it may be a wrong one so he just votes "present".(which he has a long record of doing) No help to the Iranians when they revolted, none to the Egyptians and none to the rebels in Libya. No action at all. But when it comes to Arizona, drilling in the Gulf or taking legal action against the states, he acts. Doesn't that seem like the priorities are misplaced?

Is it me or does anyone else feel that anyplace that spells names with a Q which is not followed by a U should be suspect? kidding... well maybe not.

2011-03-15T07:44:00.002-05:00

HCFF MEETING THURSDAY 11:30

Notice today that next month there will be a social get together instead of a meeting. Here will be a chance to do a little fishing and also socialize with members and their spouses. It seems that we always have a good time when we have our picnics so circle the date on your calendar. Info is posted on the right hand column.

I'm going to try and get to the river this morning and I'll let you know how I did. It's time to start reeling in some fish!

2011-03-14T11:33:00.002-05:00

The brackets are set so it's time to go to the ESPN website and enter your bracket(s). I've done a couple this morning and will make some more tomorrow. The tournament is on!!

Don't forget the HCFF meeting is this Thursday, 11:30 at Billy Genes. I'm not sure of the program at this time. A big announcement about next month's social will be made then Come and have lunch with everyone.

Spurs take on Miami tonight. I don't think anyone will overcome the Spurs lead so they will have home court advantage as long as they keep playing. It might mean a great deal because they have been almost flawless at home this year.

2011-03-13T09:21:00.003-05:00

Sure hope you set you clocks ahead last night and if you didn't it's later than you think. We mentioned it several times but forgot about it until I got up this morning. Instead of being 5 it was six and I'm not sure how long that will go on before my body makes the adjustment.

It's a little moist outside but unfortunately the possible thunder showers forecast for tomorrow are not in the forecast anymore. We need rain. The river is low and I can't find the fish. Does anyone know where they went? All kidding aside we do need the rain. A couple of years ago we had a dry winter and spring. We headed out for the summer and it rained about everyday we were gone. Maybe that's what's going to happen again this year. I've noticed that the blossoming trees aren't keeping the blossoms very long. The leaves are replacing them very quickly.

In sports the Spurs again looked lethargic but won anyway. They have two tough games ahead, Miami and Dallas. Since Carolyn has become a Spurs fan I'm watching more pro games. I don't understand fouls in the pros. When two players are running side by side if one of them is dribbling the ball he can move into the path of the defensive man and as long as he doesn't put his arm out to push the defensive man it's a foul on the defensive player. Let's say he's on the wing and dribbles to the foul line and the defensive player keeps his position between his man and the basket. If the offensive man leans in and initiates contact the defensive man gets a foul. My question is how do you guard someone that way? You can't without fouling. No wonder I never watched the pros. But to keep peace in the family I'm a Spurs fan and just shake my head at the officiating.

The teams for the NCAA "March Madness" will be selected tonight and the brackets will be filled out with 68 teams. Doesn't that seem like way too many. It doesn't do any good to win your conference because most leagues send the team that wins the tournament as their number one entrant. The Big East Conference will send between 8 and 10 teams. Does that make sense? I liked it better when there were fewer teams. Then the season meant something. Now not so much.I guess I'm just a dinosaur.

2011-03-12T06:58:00.002-06:00

We had a nice turnout at lunch yesterday and once again many laughs and fishing reports and tips. (missed you Bob ) It was nice to see Martin and John Floyd down from Fredericksberg. Martin had a visitor that gave us a couple of tips on stripping your line. He suggests that you strip the line over your finger next to your little finger because it is much more sensitive than your first finger. Because of that you feel more hits. He also said that your thumb should be on the line as you strip it in. When you feel a hit pinch the line between your thumb and 3rd finger. Interesting and I'm going to try it.

There is a new fishing report on the left and it sounds like the fishing is good at the leases. Get out there and catch them before the poaching starts. The Spurs look like they weren't real interested last night but won anyway. Several players need to get back to earlier form or the Spurs could be in trouble in the playoffs.

In college ball the conference tournaments end this weekend and the brackets for the "Big Dance" will be drawn on Sunday night. So far there have been all kinds of upsets in the tourneys and I still don't see a dominate team. so far Ohio State looks like the team to beat but they had a scare yesterday. It's going to be an interesting NCAA tournament.

Before I sign off keep the people of Japan in your thoughts as they recover from the 8.9 earthquake and the tsunami that followed. Watching the videos it astounds me just how powerful nature is and is a good reminder to treat it carefully.

2011-03-10T08:50:00.002-06:00

LUNCH TOMORROW.

I've got a few questions to ask today because it seems my sense of reality is different from quite a few people and I can't seem to understand where they are coming from. Where does money come from? Some people think the government hands it out. Now I've known for years that the only money the government has it gets from us through taxes. It would seem to make sense then that anytime the federal government takes money from us and then grants it back to us we pay the middle man and only part of what we sent to D.C. gets back to the people. In this case the middle man is all the workers in that bureau. You know their salaries, pensions, health insurance, etc. Now that's a lot of money taken from the tax payers. Isn't it? Now multiply that by state and local government workers and you have tax payer money being wasted. It would seem to me that if the states were able to keep the money and not send it to Washington we'd save a lot of money. Send what is needed for defense, as that is one thing the Federal Government is mandated to do. But let the states do more! I have tried very hard this morning to rein in my anger at politicians but I must vent. The democratic senator from Wisconsin that is saying the republicans are ruining democracy by their vote last night should take a good look at himself. He and the rest of his cronies left their jobs and went out of state instead of figuring out that they lost the election and aren't the majority anymore. Did he forget that his party passed Obamacare the same way. Doesn't he remember Speaker Pelosi's fabulous line "Let's just pass the bill and then we'll find out what's in it"? (that may not be the exact words but the message is the same). This whole mess in Wisconsin is reinforcing in my mind what hypocrites the left are. It's ok to do anything while in the majority but when they aren't they do anything to cause problems, i. e. bring in people from out of state to riot in Wisconsin, leave the state so nothing can be done then blame the other party etc. I don't know what planet they are on because many on the far left don't believe we have a deficit and debt problem and that the states and feds aren't broke.

My last rant today is about the lack of leadership we get from the president. Just two examples because I've ranted enough today. The first is he commissioned a panel to recommend cuts to be made to save us from going broke and then he disregards them and presents a budget that spends more and more which both parties thought was a joke. The second is not being ready to do something in the middle east. Why he is waiting for NATO or the UN to implement a "no fly zone" in Libya is beyond me. First, NATO must have unanimous consent from all members, which will probably never happen and in the UN Russia or China would veto it. Lead, President Obama, lead just once instead of voting "present" like you've been used to doing for most of your political career. If you don't think this guy and his appointees are in over their heads get a reality check soon.

2011-03-09T08:36:00.004-06:00

Check out Bill's fishing report on the left and "Doc's" invitation on the right before you go anywhere else on the page. That done look at the picture and check how much of the fly this fish took. Amazing how little they take. That is not a large fly in his mouth. (or is it in his nose?) My friend Dan in Buena Vista took this picture and many more that I use behind the title.

I met Dan the first summer in Colorado when Bob and I hired a guide out of the Ark Angler fly shop in Buena Vista. The three of us hit it off right away. Dan gave us the nickname "the boys of summer" and that's how we are referred to at the shop. We have enjoyed good time together with Dan and his wife Leslie, a hospice nurse and great fisher person. He and Leslie have had us over for dinner and we have had them over for "grog" time and dinner. Dan and I email each other during the winter. How lucky we were to have Dan guide us that first time. Dan is one of the best fly fishermen I have had the pleasure of fishing with. He has a trained eye and can point out fish which I have a hard time seeing. I'm anxious for summer to roll around so I can see him and Leslie.

Don't forget lunch Friday 11:30 Guadalupe River Oyster Bar and Grill.

2011-03-07T08:26:00.004-06:00

The Spurs looked ill at ease last night against the Lakers. They seemed to be rushing all their shots. I don't think it was the Laker defense that caused it either. The Lakers looked like the championship team they are. They were extremely hot and when you build a lead like they did everything seems to fall in the basket. It happened the other night for the Spurs when they played Miami. For you Spurs fans remember they beat the Lakers twice this season. The only good thing to come out of yesterday as far as the Spurs were concerned was Dallas getting beat at Memphis. They didn't lose any ground to the Mavs in the standings.

I'm debating whether or not to go fishing as the wind concerns me. It's blowing now so I'll wait and see. If it dies down I'll run down to the park and try to get used to the pontoon. Remember to check out Mid-Current web site, especially you people that tie your own flies. They have instructional videos each week of tying different flies.

Don't forget the ROMEO lunch Friday.

2011-03-06T09:03:00.003-06:00

It looks like I'll put off fishing a day or two as the wind is to arrive tomorrow. That leaves Tuesday and Thursday for me to get in some fishing. Wednesday is bridge day so unless I just go down to the river here in the morning that day's out. Friday is ROMEO lunch day at the Guadalupe river grill and date day so as you can see my social schedule is interfering with my fishing. Is life great or what? I watched the Duke/North Carolina game yesterday and Duke did not look good. Either that or North Carolina is just playing extremely well right now. I think it's a combination of both. Several more ranked teams lost including Purdue, a team that I thought had a chance to win it all. This week is tournament week and there will be plenty of games to watch before I make out my NCAA tournament brackets.

In this month's Southwest Fly Fishing is an article by Lefty Ray Chapa on the white bass run in the Colorado. One line told me when to expect a run and when not to. Dry winters and springs you might as well stay home. Interesting article.

The Spurs take on the Lakers this afternoon in another test for the San Antonio black and silver team. Go Spurs So.

2011-03-05T07:16:00.005-06:00

I received this email from Bill Thursday afternoon so get out there. Dianne and I fished LaJunta for an hour and caught 5. The water temp was 58 and there are a lot of fish. We also fished Tecaboca for 1 3/4 hours and caught 4 but missed a number. Water was 62 and there are still fish there. Get out and wet a line.

I went our yesterday to try and get used to my pontoon and I'm glad there wasn't anyone around because I would have been embarrassed. The trick is to find the spot where the frame will ride nicely on the pontoons (inflatable) and carry the weight of the battery and trolling motor. I got started and found out I had everything too far back and was trying to drown my battery. Not a good thing. I put everything on shore and move the frame around, took off and found out I had moved it forward a little too much but it was usable. I finally was able to fish for a little while and didn't get a strike. I plan on going back Monday. I have the equipment and better use it. It was a big day yesterday! Pontoon fun in the morning, lunch with friends in the afternoon. Then in the evening six of us went to the Kerrville monthly wine share held this month at Comanche Trace. We were able to see and visit with friends from the HCFF and also other friends from the community. After the wine share we went out to eat and make our second run of the day to Mamacita's. (didn't have a meal but did have dessert, the flan is great, more custardy taste than flan taste, delicious)

The Spurs were fabulous last night against the Miami Heat. We jumped out to a 24 point lead in the first quarter and by the time we got home were leading by 19 when were started watching with 5 or 6 minutes left in the second quarter. Miami cut into the lead and I though they had momentum going into the half. The Spurs came out in the third quarter and put the game away by out scoring the Heat by ten points to up the lead to 20. The Spurs were red hot from the three point arc as they hit 60% with Matt Bonner leading the way making 6 of 7. I'm convinced now that the Spurs have a good shot at going all the way. The Lakers come in Sunday which will be another test for them. A nice way to finish a good day with the Spurs winning by 30.

2011-03-03T10:04:00.004-06:00

I've decided to sell my kayak that I got bought from Danny W. I've listed it on Craigslist and I'm going to put it on a couple of other sites. I just don't get to the Gulf that often and here I use my pontoon or float tube. It's in good shape and paddle and wheeled dolly are included. If you know of anyone that's looking for a kayak let them know I'm selling.

I'm going to the lake today to do some fishing and I hope the wind doesn't come up. It will be a trial run to make sure everything is in the right spots and that the battery and trolling motor are riding ok. The Spurs looked much better last night but still might have trouble without Parker. BYU lost their first game after dropping their starting player (leading rebounder and 3rd PPG) and it was at home. They must make some adjustments. The regular season winds down soon and the conference tournaments will start soon.

2011-03-02T08:16:00.002-06:00

Wednesday and I haven't been fishing since last week. I've got bridge today so today is out. Thursday sounds good. Put the pontoon together today and fish tomorrow. Sounds like a plan. That means today I must make sure the battery is charged so I can use the outboard. Then the only thing left for tomorrow is to answer the question "where do I go?".

The Spurs were terrible last night and lost by 16. When they are bad they are really bad! They missed Parker and George Hill was terrible at point guard. I don't know if he was pumped or what was going on because he is better than his performance last night. They play in Cleveland tonight. BYU lost one of its starters so going into the NCAA tournament will be an adjustment for them. They may have lost a #1 seed also. Texas has lost 3 of 4 since they were ranked #1. I have never been impressed with the coach Barnes. He recruits talent but they usually fade the last round in the Big 12. Ohio State, Kansas, Duke look like the teams to beat. I like Purdue to make waves in the tourney. It should a wide open affair. I will say that I like a smaller tournament however. Sixty-eight teams is about 36 too many. It's watered down so much that one conference could get 8 to 10 teams in it this year. Why play the conference games? I'll also state my annual gripe. Draw for placing instead of seeding teams. In other words, don't favor any team.

2011-02-28T08:45:00.003-06:00

The big night is over and Carolyn is getting much better with the remote! Since it was both "Oscar Night" and "Spurs Night" she was in charge. We were able to watch both the game and the presentations. Both the Spurs and "The King's Speech" won so I was happy. The Spurs didn't play very well blowing a twenty point lead and then came from behind to win. At the Oscars I thought the women looked glamorous. What a change took place once Joan Rivers started her show about the well dressed and badly dressed stars. They got the message and last night they were really well dressed.

The weather continues to warm up and the sun is ready to shine for awhile. It will be time to fish several days a week. I think I'll put my pontoon together and hit a lake or two and see if I can catch some bass. I will have to make some hard decisions since "March Madness" will be starting soon. Ah let me see, fish in the morning, watch basketball in the afternoon hmmm?? It's windy out right now so today I don't know. Tie some flies? I need to get on that for the summer. If I keep putting that off summer will be here and I won't be stocked up. I'll see what I can do about it.

2011-02-27T08:32:00.003-06:00

I try and the key word is try, to learn something every time I go fishing. Yesterday I learned that I don't know where the fish are right now. I went below our park and caught two or three fish and didn't have any other bites. I also learned that there are still many fishermen that litter. They bring their beer and styrofoam cups filled with bait and then leave them along the river. I wished they would police up after themselves. I learned that somehow the green mossy grass that made the river bottom slippery went someplace as it wasn't nearly as slippery as it has been lately. Isn't wonderful to still be able to learn these important things as one grows older.

It was upset Saturday as nine of the top 25 teams lost. Four lost to teams ranked below them in the top 25. These teams included top ranked Duke and # 5 ranked Texas who blew a 22 point lead and lost to Colorado. It looks like any team that gets hot and can carry it over to the "Big Dance" can win it. There isn't one team that stands out from the rest this year. Tonight important decisions must be made. Do we watch the Spurs or the Oscars. Hmmmmmmmm?

2011-02-26T07:52:00.003-06:00

I got out the #3 weight and finally made it to the river. I fished for about an hour or so yesterday and caught several nice bluegill. I've used my 6' #2 weight so much recently I forgot how much further I can cast using a 9 foot rod. Also I can use larger and heavier flies. I caught the fish on a flies I got at the last meeting from our guest speaker. The weather has been so nice the last couple of days and you should be casting to those fish that are waiting for your presentation.

The Spurs won again last night. It wasn't real pretty but they won. It's getting close to "March Madness". The college conferences are getting ready for their tournaments and I'm getting ready to watch a lot of college ball. What a nice time of year, fishing and basketball!

2011-02-25T08:06:00.002-06:00

With the high to be in the mid-seventies and lows in the forties for the next ten days it looks like everyone should be fishing. The bass should be getting ready to spawn and their aggression could prove to be fun for the angler. You in the lease should be having good luck as the trout should be more active now. It just looks like the perfect time to be out on these beautiful spring days. Good luck.

The Spurs are playing tonight. They host the New Jersey Nets. The Nets just acquired Deron Williams from Utah so they should be better than the last time these two teams met. The Chicago Bulls are playing well and may be the team to beat in the playoffs. They beat the Miami Heat last night. Utah won again without Carmelo Anthony and I think Coach Karl is having more fun without the prima donna being there. It's too bad that there are only about six or seven of the thirty teams that stand a chance to win the championship. There is quite a disparity in the quality of teams in the NBA.

2011-02-24T08:26:00.002-06:00

I want to highly recommend the website for Mid-Current. (see links) This site has fishing video. instructional videos and fly tying videos. It puts out a weekly e-mag and you can sign up to receive it at no cost to you. It's based in Colorado ( I think) so any of you that make Colorado your summer trout fishing area should give it a look.

I hate to say it but the middle east trouble is interfering with our summer plans. I hope it gets stabilized soon. Already the oil prices are sky-rocketing. It went up 10 cents the other day and diesel is around $3.50 already. Not only does it affect us at the pump but everything else we buy will increase in price.+ Our wonderful government must want us paying a lot for gas and other things because they haven't opened up our areas for drilling. Instead they want us to shell out money to our "friends" in the middle east so we can run up our debt even more. I guess it doesn't make sense for us to have our own gas and build more refineries. I can hardly wait to get my new wind powered "desert schooner". Isn't terrible when a vocal minority ruin things for the rest of us!

2011-02-23T07:19:00.002-06:00

I received this email and thought I should share it with you.

Hi Doug: A group of seven members of HCFF and FFF attended the TROUT FEST, sponsored by GRTU and TPWL, at Sattler on the banks of the Guadalupe at Rio Raft. Our group manned a fly tying tent that trained almost forty interested fly fishermen during the two day weekend. The weather Saturday was marginal, but Sunday turned out beautiful and there was a large crowd at the event. There was a large tent that had about forty fly fishing vendors inside. One could find just about anything they wanted. I visited with two or three warm water guides about speaking to our club.The highlight for me was attending a one hour long casting seminar by DAVE WHITLOCK, well known fly fishing expert on the banks of the Guadalupe. I thought I could cast pretty good, until I watched him awhile. He had many suggestions including do not use an orange or yellow fly line, because it is easier for the fish to see and thus scares them. Also, he urged those in attendance to practice casting so that the fly hits the water first and the line gently falls behind, rather than slapping the line down and allowing the fly to hit the water hard at the end of the leader. It looked pretty hard. All in all it was time well spent, particularly to get to see Dave Whitlock. DANNY It's nice of the members to provide the opportunity of learning to others.

Not much has been happening in my world. Friday was date day, Saturday was monthly party day and Sunday a day of rest. ( as if I need a day set aside for that) It looks like we may get some rain and we all know we need that! I wish it would rain and get it over with so I can get to the river. I may tomorrow and Friday anyway, rain or shine. I've got a kayak for sale and if anyone knows of someone that is in the market let me know.

With the trouble in the middle-east, wouldn't it have been nice if we'd been drilling in the gulf and in Alaska? Maybe we could have off-set the price of the oil we're going to have to buy? I know some people want gas to go to over $5.00 a gallon so we will have to use other types of fuel but wouldn't it have been nice to have perfected and lowered the cost of the others before we are forced to buy and use them?

2011-02-20T08:26:00.004-06:00

I'm tired of the constant morning overcast with the mist. It isn't as bad as the picture which was taken on the Madison in Yellowstone NP at one of my favorite fishing holes. I don't want to go out in it. It's not that it is cold or anything, it's just that I don't want to get my glasses wet. Now is that ridiculous or what? Yesterday I walked to the clubhouse with my glasses in my pocket. All that just so I don't have to constantly wipe them dry. It's keeping me from heading out fishing in the mornings. I do have my issues.

I'm hoping to get down to the river today for an hour or so and see if I can find out where the fish are hanging out. Last time I went down here I didn't see very many fish but it was somewhat cooler and hopefully the water is warmer and the fish more active. I know it's going to be slippery but with a wading staff and being extra careful I should be OK. If any of you are fishing let me know how you are doing.

2011-02-19T07:42:00.005-06:00

I'm sorry but I'm going to rant a little today. Well, I'm really not sorry. I am upset. Why is it that some people can't seem to get it in their heads that most of the States are broke and the Country is too. What is happening in Wisconsin is terrible. The state is broke. It has outstanding bills to pay. They are trying to balance their budget. The government employees and union people brought in by the Democrats are rallying in Madison. The Democratic state Senators have fled the state. They believe in Democracy but only when they have the majority. The state Assembly and Senate are asking the union members to contribute more money to their retirement package and to contribute to their health insurance. The percentage that they will be asked to pay is about half of what a person holding a job in the private sector pays. And if you think about it, the guy working in the private sector is also contributing to the government employees retirement and health insurance. The taxpayer gets hit twice. The union doesn't like the fact that the State wants to get rid of the bargaining right of the government union. How can the state bargain when it has no money and actually owes money? The hero of many Democrats, Franklin Roosevelt was against the right of bargaining by government employees.

The mood of the country as shown by the last election is the polar opposite of the thinking of the left. It is the Democrat's last stand. The far left (which controls the party) doesn't care about spending money they don't have. They just don't get the message of the last election. If you don't believe Pelosi, Reid and Obama and the left are socialists look again. They want more and more government jobs and want the government in all phases of our lives. The Government is is into too much. Obama only knows how to create jobs by instilling government money into the system or "investing" in the country. This is not how this country became great. Of course, the left doesn't think this country is great as they apologize all the time for how bad they think we are. The Country is broke, the States are broke and the local municipalities are broke and it seems the unions and the Democratic party just don't care. The thing I want to tell the teacher's union and government employee's union in Wisconsin is "paying 12.5% of your salary into your retirement is much better than receiving no salary when the state can't pay it. You realize I hope that the states can't print money like the federal government. When they run out so do you!

Have you noticed that Obama sticks his nose into State matters? Taking Arizona to court and now telling Wisconsin what they should or shouldn't be doing. He butts into Wisconsin's business but is a coward when it comes to the Federal financial mess. Has he taken a lead on anything? He let the Congress take the lead on Obamacare and now wants the Republican House to take the lead on cutting the budget. This is the most cowardly and inept President and administration I have seen since Carter. The President, according to the left leaning press, is smart. He may be smart in the classroom but he sure is dumb on the bus! He is in over his head and trying to drown the rest of us with him.

2011-02-18T08:22:00.002-06:00

The meeting was a success. We had a nice turn out and the facilities were good. The speaker, John Spencer gave a nice presentation and was nice enough to stay after the meal and answer questions. Some people left too soon and didn't get flies that he was passing out. Next meeting will be the third Thursday of March at Billy/Gene's at 11:30. It was nice to see Roy! He looked good.

I received an email from Bob Banks this morning in regards to John Floyd. John lost his oldest son. That must have been the family member that we had heard about. It might be nice if you'd send a card. If you need his address email me and I'll send it to you. (I don't post addresses on the web).

2011-02-17T08:02:00.002-06:00

Our first HCFF luncheon meeting is today at 11:30. I hope that it is well attended as it frees up the rest of the day and evening. Remember that the board meeting starts at 10:30 and everyone is invited.

I've been looking through my fishing magazines and the internet for a good emerger pattern to tie. I don't fish them often enough because I don't have one that I have confidence in. So many times I think the trout are taking emergers and I'm at a loss as to what to tie on my line. I've tied up a couple in the past couple of days but I'm not sure they are what I need. If you have a favorite pattern that you use please let me know.

I have a kayak for sell. Along with it I'll throw in the paddle, seat and anything else that I got with it. I just haven't made the trip to the coast often enough to justify having it. I'll put more details in tomorrows blog. If you know of anyone looking for one tell them to contact me.

The Spurs end the rodeo road trip tonight at Chicago. It should be a close game as the Bulls are close to the lead in the Eastern Conference. Go Spurs!

2011-02-16T08:47:00.002-06:00

The weather is nice, especially in the afternoon and it's to be in the 70's all of this week and next. Get off your duff and get to the river, Wet that line!! Tie those special flies. Enjoy the spring weather before it gets too hot. I'll be joining you in that activity one of these days. I've got bridge this afternoon and the HCFF meeting Thursday and "date day" Friday. Hmmm maybe Friday morning? One hint, be careful if you are going to wade the river. The last time I did it was very slippery. Use that wading staff.

The Spurs aren't in action until tomorrow night so not much is happening in pro sports in our area.

Remember the meeting this month is at Billy/Gene's at 11:30 in the morning. Come one, come all.

2011-02-15T09:51:00.002-06:00

CORRECTION to yesterday's blog. The Spurs did not end their road trip last night. They have one more game in Chicago on Thursday. By the way the Spurs won last night.

Danny and I went fishing yesterday. I landed 4 fish and lost 5 or 6. I didn't fish the afternoon because of a leak in my waders. I got all of mine on a red Copper John. Danny didn't have too much luck in the morning but got 5 or 6 in the afternoon. I think he got his on a size 14 bead-head prince. Bill and Dianne stopped by and fish for a few minutes. They had been to another lease and did ok there. The fish were active from the time we arrived until we left. It looked like a lot of them were taking emergers but I couldn't find out what emerger. I got mine deeper. We went around 10 o'clock and fished for several hours. I had my first one withing five minutes but it got tougher after that. I'm not pleased that I lost so many after they made several runs. I could have had a big day if only I could learn to land them. I'm sure Danny lost quite a few also. It was a beautiful day and it's always nice to be on the water.

2011-02-14T07:39:00.002-06:00

PLEASE NOTICE THAT THE MEETING TIME AT BILLY/GENE'S IS AT 11:30

It looks cloudy out but hopefully the clouds will burn off soon and it will be a nice pleasant day. Danny has invited me to go fishing so we are going to try our hand at it this morning. As usual I will give you a report on tomorrow's posting.

We had a nice day yesterday. We had friends over for a movie, which turned out to be a good one. We watched "Social Network" and all of us enjoyed it. The lead character, Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Facebook and the youngest billionaire in the world reminded all of us of Sheldon on the Big Bang Theory, which is one of our favorite TV shows. A very interesting movie.

The Spurs end their road trip tonight against the Nets and will finally get home for a few days.

2011-02-13T07:55:00.003-06:00

Since I last posted, the Spurs have won one and lost one. They had a really off night against Philadelphia as everyone on the team couldn't put the round ball through a round ring. They stunk. They scored seventy-one points that night in four quarters and last night they had 72 at the end of the third quarter. They close out the road trip tomorrow night at New Jersey.

The weather is going to be great this coming week so I expect to hear from some of you about how the fishing is going. I can hardly wait until the water warms a little and the bass begin to hit. Just think how much fun lies ahead.

2011-02-11T08:00:00.002-06:00

I think Spring is here. Have you checked out next week's forecast? It's to be in the seventies! If you've stayed away from the fishing because of the cold get your gear together for next week. I think I'll be fishing two or three times at least. I have been waiting for the weather to change and I think the time is now.

The Spurs keep winning. They haven't played a tough team in some time but this year they are winning the games they're supposed to win. They play tonight at six. This year they have plenty of people that can score and when they play defense they are tough to beat.

2011-02-09T11:40:00.002-06:00

It's 11:40 and I'm finally posting this morning. I had to go over early to the VA to have some blood drawn for my appointment tomorrow. Believe me it was cold out at 7:30. The ice was coming down and the wind was blowing hard. I didn't have any problems driving as I stayed on the well traveled spots on the roads. I talked with a friend and he only had a small slide at Water and G streets. It's all the way up to 24 now and from 18 that's a warming trend. I doubt if anyone is fishing today but who knows??? I have bridge today and went over early to turn the heat up in the clubhouse. Other than that not much is happening except Carolyn is in "heaven" as she is quilting in her sewing room.

The Spurs won again and play again tonight. They beat Detroit last night and didn't look too enthused. Tonight they are at Toronto and the game starts at 6 o'clock.

2011-02-08T07:34:00.002-06:00

The latest I've heard about Roy is that he is home but is weak. I don't believe he's ready to take calls. Let' hope he recovers fast.

The latest report on the trout is...there are plenty of fish left and maybe with the warming weather that is coming next week they will start hitting. My understanding is that they are hitting very softly and an indicator might be necessary. On movement of that indicator set the hook.

The Spurs are back on the road and take on the Pistons in Detroit at 6:30.

2011-02-07T07:13:00.002-06:00

The Packers hung on to win the game and I thought Volkswagen won the ad game. The National Anthem was butchered, not only messing up the words (which has been done often) but musically as well. Why don't the younger singers get it. It's not about them when they sing this song so just sing it like it was written. The halftime show was lousy but thank goodness the game was good. I'm not sure if the best team won as the Steelers kept shooting themselves in the foot. (oops I used shooting I hope no reader goes out and uses a gun because I used that word). Give Green Bay credit though as they took advantage of the turnovers they created.

One other thing about football in general. I wish they would go back to playing on grass. I think the artificial turf causes injuries that wouldn't occur on grass. Grass will give some and is a lot softer to land on. Football is finally over after over 6 months. Next biggie is "March Madness". Love it.

One last comment on football, I wish they would go back to playing all games on grass. I think it would cut down on injuries. It's a lot softer landing on it than artificial turf.

2011-02-06T07:47:00.003-06:00

SUPER BOWL DAY That means lots of parties around the country. It's a chance to be with a group of friends and to root for your team. That's what Carolyn and I will be doing in the afternoon. It was nice of a friend to throw a party and invite us. As you get older you realize that without friends life isn't very good. enjoying and doing things for people is what life should be about. So enjoy today and celebrate friendships.

2011-02-04T07:10:00.002-06:00

I didn't do much tying but I read quite a bit of my book. For some reason I just can't get interested in tying flies. I should just tie two or three a day and I'd have a nice supply for this summer. Right now I can't get started doing that. It's cold again today and I will have plenty of "indoor time". We'll see how it goes.

The Spurs beat the Lakers again last night but it was on too late for me to watch so I had to read about it this morning. Must have been exciting coming down to a last second tip-in by Antonio McDyess. The win is a nice way to rebound after losing in Portland.

Any of you braving the cold and going fishing? If so let me know how you are doing.

2011-02-03T07:09:00.003-06:00

I've been putting off tying flies for the summer fishing but I think I might tie some today. Being so cold I'm sure not going outside in it if I can help it. Can you believe there is 40% chance of snow showers tonight? With the weather as cold as it is, I understand why all the guides near West Yellowstone can tie hundreds of dozens of flies during the winter. What else is there to do? I always kid my friend in Buena Vista, Colorado about having "heat waves" when the temperature is in the teens. I looked today and it's much warmer there than it is here. It's all the way up to 32 in B.V. Dan will probably be fishing today.

The Spurs play in LA tonight. I hope they play better than they were in Portland. The Super Bowl is Sunday and I'm hoping the Packers win. I haven't been right picking these playoff games. I'll try not to jinx Green Bay but I am picking them to win.

2011-02-02T11:34:00.002-06:00

I guess one should always look for the silver lining. As I was doing one of my daily crosswords today the electricity went out. I slowly made my way to the kitchen drawer that holds one of a couple of flashlights we have here in the house. I made it there without banging up an elbow or knee. But that's not the silver lining. Carolyn said we ought to go out for breakfast and so we did. The temp was about 17 outside but we made it to Del Norte and as we were eating their electricity went out also. While we were eating the electricity went out but we had our order. Our timing was perfect. When we got home the heater was once again churning away and we are snug and warm. It's all the way up to 19 now.

This week my faith in humanity went up a little with the ruling out of Florida. How people can believe that the federal government can force you to buy a product is beyond me. Those of you that think this ruling is wrong I'd like to remind you that if the roles were reversed and Congress passed a law that everyone must buy a gun for everyones' safety you'd be upset. Or if they passed a law that required you to by a fishing license whether or not you wanted one or not wouldn't be right either. The great thing about this country is that we can opt to make mistakes without someone (government) telling us that we must do this or that. Don't let the fact that you might want Obamacare get in the way of doing what is right. Remember that the other party may be in power and want to force something down your throat.