Head count!

[Spanky]

I need a little bit of an idea who's going to the St Joe River outing on Jan 19th,20th, and 21st. I know of a few who are going, but thought it would be a good idea to post so everyone will know who to expect there, possibly share some rides, or invite others to come along.It would also be very helpful for some of the captains to know for different reasons.

If you are not sure, but are trying to arraing it, please say so also. Thanks alot folks , I will start:

I am going for all 3 days beginning on sat, the 19th. I am taking my 22 ft. heated /covered river boat, I will be looking for a crew for each day. I have 2-3 members who have expressed an interest to come along for a trip or two through the weekend. I will be staying at shamrock park, but may be launching in various locations, depending on the activity of the steelies!:D

Ok, who's next!:cool:

[gunrod]

I'll go next. My dad (riverrat1) and I are tenatively planning on going on Friday (Thursday night if I can get out of court on Friday morning). My dad said he wants to take his 16' aluminum boat and I would like to take my new drift boat if it is ready. We need to come home at a decent hour on Sunday morning for my step-daughters birthday party.

No reservations made yet but will have some in a day or two. Look forward to meeting everyone.

[mechanical head]

I'm in for the 19th and 20th with my boat. If Spanky is not a hot rod on the river I'll be trying to keep up with him (I need to leech off of his river intelligence). As of now, me, myself, and I are fishing. I'm sure someone will jump in with me, if not I'll just run two rods.

[Spanky]

I will not be a hot rod, actually I'm a hot BOD! Ask my friends:p
We will be trying to keep in touch with as many as possible with the vhf radio in the boats and the celfones. I will give out my number at the morning meeting site. I spoke to a couple good sources that told me they have been doing better(3-5 fish per trip for 2 guys) in the middle stretches. These fish will move up with others!

Lets keep the count going!:D

[No Threat]

I am planning on being there for Saturday. I'm going to bring my brother(my usual fishing partner) and my boat. I will have room for one more in my boat. I have never fished there before so tips on where to go and what to use will be very helpful. I am looking forward to meeting everyone. Just let me know where and when.
:) Jeff

[StumpJumper]

I'm going sunday, if there's going to be anyone around. I'm pretty much coming just to meet everyone, so who's gonna be there sun? Is there going to be any get together?

[gunrod]

Spanky, you seem to know alot about the river and the area. Is there a map on the internet somewhere so that names like Shamrock Park and Jasper Rd mean something to me? My dad and I are planning on going but are really up in the air about how, when and where to fish since we have never been on the river.

Thanks...

Also I am not sure about bringing my boat now, I put it in the Huron River today and may wait until I get a motor to push it around a little easier. I am new to the drift boat thing and may go down river in a complete spin without one.

[Spanky]

If you have mapquest, you can get a rough map, some tackle stores have a magazine type map that is pretty informative. If I knew how to put a pic on this thing I'd do it, but I am pretty stupid about the cut and paste type stuff.

If you have mapquest, it will ask for cross streets try I-94 and Niles avenue. This is the area near the benton twnshp launch. work your way south east( upstream).I believe it is 26-27 miles of river from Berrien Springs Dam to Lk. Mich. Or you can try to start in Berrien springs. Try the intersection of US31 and Snow Rd. Or Ferry St. and River Dr.:)

[Spanky]

Gunrod...You have mail in your Pm Box, I hope I can help ya out, if not maybe Ralf, Ray, or Clay can post the map for me. I think I can email it to ya.:confused:

[Shoeman]

I'll try to post a link to the map.

I hope it works

http://community.webshots.com/uploads/29043832.jpg?
8903

If my mind is working correctly, Shamrock is located just past the bridge, going south (east) on the north side of Bus 31. (the downstream side on the bridge)

The website, that is hosting this pic, is performing an up-grade. At certain times during the weekend it may not show.

Let me know, if it doesn't by Monday.

[hasenpfeffer]

I'm coming, with at least two friends and possibly a third. We plan on arriving friday night probably kinda late, after 10:00pm. I will bring my boat, and my friend may bring his also, depends on whether the third party decides to come or not, and how the weather is. We will be staying at shamrock park. We will fish probably the dam and around the island area first, since it will be the closest. Then if nothing is happening there we'll head somewhere else.
Can't really think of any meeting places other than like the local tavern, or just sitting around a campfire. Can't remember, does shamrock have fire pits in front of the cabins?

I think Ralf needs to get him one of those great big motor homes so we can all party at his place:D

[Spanky]

Worked good here Ray! Thanks. Directions were good too. Right after you cross thr bridge, be ready to turn left at the shamrock park entry. As you head down that road, you'll hafta stay to the left again where it divides. At the ranger station, they can direct you to the launch site or the camping area.

I am planning on going to shamrock alone on sat, I will be looking for a crew of some sort, probably 2 people anyways.

I am also planning on stopping for breakfast on the way, probably BoB Evans at exit 29-30 off of I-94. I will be there around 6:15-6:30. If anyone wants to join me, I can lead the way to shamrock from there too!After I stop for wigglers and waxies;)

:cool:

[TBone]

I am still up in the air. Sounds like there are plenty of open spots on the boats though. That was one of my holdbacks, I wasn't sure if I wanted to drag out the boat.

Spanky, Waxies and wigglers are what you're recommending? I also don't know about my spawn supply.

One thing that I haven't heard mentioned here. Shamrock park has some very slow speed limits posted (5 mph - maybe.) I have only launched there once but I was advised ahead of time that they take that speed limit very serious. Is there truth to that?

[Spanky]

The speed limit is for the parking lot and launch area, in car not on the water. The waxies and wigglers was just a joke:p or was it?:eek: Remember guys, 33 degree water means little offerings, smaller cranks, tiny bags, lighter line( 6 lb test) and even little nasty bugs;) Its a good chance for splitshot to get his bobbers out. Look out trees!:rolleyes: I'll find out how the guys did today and get you all some info.


And yes T bone, they take the speed limit thing waaaayyyy too seriously, so don't you guys forget it. You won't believe some of the stories I have heard about the stupid speed limit there. I have to ride my brakes while towing the barge, to keep from speeding!:rolleyes: Bottom line, If Nick (the ranger) catches anyone speeding, He will ask them to leave. Please come to the outing anyways though. Its only a 100 yrds or so drive thru the time warp, the rest will be fun!:D

[STEELHEAD]

Hey guys, I fished the river this morning; around Shamrock Park. The water was up a little, clear and flowing good. We went 1 for 6. The fish are there and next weekend should be good. The one we landed was caught on a wiggle wart. The others hit spawn.
I'll be there next Saturday. If my guys back out for some reason and I have an opening on my boat I'll let you know.
Also... 5 mph means 5 mph, not 6! The ranger, Nick, takes it very seriously.

[Spanky]

Hey Steelhead, thanks for the report. Pretty much the same as I had heard most of the week, even the lower stretch has some good fish in it. Same there too, mostly spawn, but trollers were doing well on thurs-fri. Water temp was around 35 degrees.

Yep, Nick is a piece of work, pretty much harmless. We call him the river nazi!:D see ya next sat, hope your crew comes with ya too! I hope we get enough folks to go, there may be way too many steelies in there for just a few of us:p :p

[Spanky]

The tally so far from members and captain friends of mine is 10 boats. It looks like we may corral them slimy devils(fish). If anyone wants to come, but is reluctant because they have no boat or gear. I am sure some of the good people on thise site will share. Check them out and PM the ones who may have spots. I still have a spot open for a couple of folks on sat afternoon, and for mon morning. By mon, I am sure we can catch a fish or two!

Its a great time and temp for C & R fishing too!;)

Let the Head count continue!:cool:

[StumpJumper]

I need a seat on sunday! Please let me know because I'm not buying a trout stamp unless....

[mich buckmaster]

Went down to fishermans haven caught three, had 7 on. I was fishing from shore. I used Spawn and wobble glows for all fish. I tried flies and had no luck. I hope to find a ride on Saturday, but need to know for what to bring. I am coming from Niles, so breakfast with spanky will be out for me, unless its not far off 94.

[TBone]

Breakfast with Spanky-

Catchy title. I went to breakfast with Santa this year with my kids at Kensington. I have a feeling that breakfast with Spanky will be a WHOLE LOT better!:p

[Spanky]

Hey No sittin on my lap either. I gotta feelin there should be plenty of rides for both days. We will get it all worked out.

The place I am planning on stopping on sat morning is at the pipestone rd. Exit. Splitshot and SFK know where it is, I believe it is exit 30, but it may be 29. The exit I will take to berrien Springs is exit 28 anyways. Niles avenue. Goes right into Berrien springs.

BJ 's tackle shop is on this road also, as is jasper dairy launch.

I will get with my other captain friends and see what the scoop is for rides, and post later!;)

[fishctchr]

I'm not coming if I can't see SFK sit on spanky's lap:) . I don't know for sure if I can make it yet, but I will sure try. This one is too close to home to miss all the fun. Besides spanky might need his trusty bodyguard, I saw the way splitshot was eyeing him on our last trip. Must be hell to be so good looking spanky.

[Spanky]

All I know is: the chicks really dig my action:eek:

I was able to get ahold of only one of the other captains tonight. He is going alone and for all 3 days too! He has rented a cabin also and has room for 3 other guys(or gals):eek:

He also is looking to take folks fishing, 2 on sat and 2 on sun, with mon up in the air for now. He has a 17 ft Sylvan, and I think it doesn't have a rag top, so ya'll have to have some warm clothes to fish with him. He is a good river angler, and almost as good a captain as ME!:p However, If you want to bunk in his cabin, I will warn ya, he likes to party, and snores like a bear!:o

So stumpjumper, if ya wanna plan for sun with Dave, looks like you'll be needin dat trout stamp!

I will let ya know about the other 2-3 captains that I have asked to join us.:cool:

[QueenSalmon]

Hey Guys,

Just wanted to let you guys know that Rivernut and I will not be attending this outing. We were planning on it but we really need to get some other things done!!! I hope you all have a wonderful time and catch tons of fish and NO BATS:D

Spanky thank you SOOOOOOO Much for the offer to take us down the river!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Maybe at the next outing we can join you!!!


Have a GREAT time everyone

QS:p

[StumpJumper]

Allright! Count me in. I'm putting in a reservation for a bunk too!! What time are the boats pushing out sun. morn? I need to make sure I'm there on time!

[STEINFISHSKI]

Got the nod to fish Sunday with you guys. Have plenty of warm gear, tackle, but no boat. Be glad to help with rods or tackle needs. Also have a small fortune worth of fresh salmon spawn. This time of year I use 1-2 egg sacs in white/yellow/orange/pink. Let me know who needs what and I'll bring it.

Where are we meeting, when, and I won't be late. Would also like to talk to my captain to find out if I can help with gas/launch fees or "pops" to share with the group. Sounds like some good fun. Looking forward to meeting you guys.

[Spanky]

OK here is the latest, One of my captains has been shafted into working all weekend, so he is a no-show. Dave is still gonna be there, and said Stump can have a bunk in his cabin.( I need to know which night you'll be staying. He also said both stump and Stein, can fish with him on sunday. He has a portable top he uses along with a heater to keep everyone toasty. He still has 2 openings for sat!

I am still waiting to here from my other captain.

Between the 20 or more of us, we will get everyone out who wants to go, and there is a good fishery from shore too!

I just found out that there no cooking facility in the cabins, or running water, so it looks like shoeman can be the cook afterall. Congratulations Ralf.

I have a crew for sat morn and for sun,I also have 1 guy already for monday, gonna need 1-2 more, so Those who can't go this weekend, but may wanna go on MLK day, let me know.

Stein I will Pm you with your captains ph. number so you can make arraingments, I will also send it to St jumper too just incase.

Thats all for now, They way the ice is going, I think WE got the Plan for this comming weekend:D :D :cool:

[Shoeman]

Cooking??

I pride myself in stimulating the local economy, by utilizing local watering holes.
Let the Colonel cook.

Spanky, if you still have room for Monday morning, I'm game?
Unless some of the "New Faces" need rides. I'm just as content fishing from shore or pulling plugs, near the dam.
I just received a PM from Stelmon, he might be able to join us.
The need for his first steelhead, takes top priority.
That map you sent me, will be posted in the morning. I have to use my other box. (@work)

[stelmon]

Yes yes, if all goes well,(my parents letting me, N_O coming) I will be there. Keep the fingers crossed. I WANT STEEL

[STEELHEAD]

Just out of curiousity what is the beverage of choice for this outing.:D And where is everbody meeting Saturday morning?

[Spanky]

Anything but BUD!:p Unless someone has a better idea, I am stopping on my way down at the exit 30 Bob evens off I-94, But I am open to other/better ideas:D

Steelhead, are you fishing sun or mon? Most of the guys said sat, but only half of em said sun, with only 3-4 boats for mon.


You guys must be going to the MLK parade in Benton Harbor!

[STEELHEAD]

I will be fishing Saturday and maybe Sunday to if the boss lets me. I already have a crew for Saturday and maybe Sunday.
Has anybody heard how they are doing around Jasper Dairy?

[hasenpfeffer]

We're still on here. I'm bringing my sturdy vessel, and two steelhead crazy friends. I'm planing on running down river I think. I haven't been doing well around the dam the last few trips I've made. Besides, the way my luck runs if I stay away from the dam you guys that fish there will tear em up. Whereas if I'm around the fish will be somewhere else:)
I believe there is a walleye tournament this weekend also. Has anyone else heard about that?

[Shoeman]

http://www.holidayguide.com/camp_usa/michigan/shamrock/

Spanky, here's that link.

[kingfisher2]

Shoeman, if you're still looking for a meeting place, there is a restraunt named the Daybreak just on the west side of the bridge in Berrien Springs. They serve a great breakfast and lunch.

I'm leaving for the cottage (7 miles from damn) tomorrow and will be targeting pike, walleye and crappie through the ice. I will try to make it over on Saturday or Sunday.

I was in that area last week and heard reports of walleye being taken. Didn't hear much about the Steel.

Good luck!!!!!

[Spanky]

OK heres the latest tally, as best as I can figure:p

19 guys on sat going in 7 boats

17 guys on sunday going in 7 boats

and 11 guys on monday going in 5 boats.

I'm sure things will change by friday night, but just wanted to give everyone an idea. To those who tried to PM me, I have made some more room in there, so please try again. Sorry:rolleyes:

I'll check back after the wings beat the crap outta the coyotes!:D

[stelmon]

If i can go and Don goes, I will be there all 3 days if one of them did not included me!

[Polecat]

hasenpfeffer, there is a tourney scheduled for sat. nite providing there's at least 5 boats entering. See SW Rivers for details.
Johnny Polecat

[hasenpfeffer]

Hey Ralf! that link you posted above shows the park in the wrong place! Shamrock is on the north side of the river. The map you linked to shows shamrock in the middle of town, on the south side of the river. Shamrock is going to be over there by river drive. As you turn onto river drive stay to the left. This will take you to the park. Cant miss it, it's right next to the sewer treatment ponds:) no kiddin:)

[Shoeman]

Erik, that's too funny.
I wonder if they knew that.
It's Shamrock's website. lol

Still kinda hard to miss.
On SB Bus.31 it's on the far side of the river, on the left side of 31.

If you go up the hill, you went too far.

Stelmon, when will you know???????????????

[stelmon]

I don't know. I will talk to my parents again tonight. Don, what are the chances you will be going?

[mich buckmaster]

SFK,

In Niles up river a ways there was a sewer main that broke and dumped about 500,000 gallons of sewage. That means everything. So if you do catch a "Brown Trout" it may have some white stuff hanging on. Maybe its a turbin. ;)

[stelmon]

I just talk to the mama and she said that she talked to my dad last night and they are going to allow me to go if I can get someone else to work for me saturday. other then that I am cool as longg as don is going. Really lookin forward to catching my first steel and maybe even a brown trout and river bows!

[Shoeman]

Don is a go.
We're all meeting at my house.
Not sure about the day yet. It might be Friday night or Saturday afternoon.
I'm trying to find a replacement for me at work.

[stelmon]

Then I guess I will cya on the date you plan unless something drasticallly happens! Lookin forward to it!

[northern_outdoorsman]

Count me in for whatever days Shoeman is going...as he said, "Count me in"...Thanks Ralf...I have my DryFly Boat and am gonna use that, but if there is room ya may get me on a big boat! See y'all there!

[riverrat1]

Gunrod and I are leaving tonight for the St. Joe. We'll be at the Motel 6 at 94& pipestone, we have red Ford pickups 93 &95,one pulling a driftboat and one pulling a aluminium boat. We'll be on the river tomorrow. See ya's over there. Jack

[Shoeman]

You lucky dogs.
Clay and I will be there late Friday night.
More than likely, we'll just stay around the park that night for a little tongue oiling. See you guys and good luck. Save a fresh skein for us. :D

[stelmon]

Good Luck you guys. I am off of work so I am free to go. So ralf, we meeting at your place friday night? About what time?

[Spanky]

Now thats a bunch Of B S!:mad:

All you snaggers are gonna beat me to MY FISH!:p

Well at least I know you'll all take the time to make sure the ramp is in great condition for "SCOWL" launching on sat!


I hope you guys have a good trip.Don't forget about the speed limit!And don't be hoggin all the wigglers and waxworms.:p

[Shoeman]

Stelmon, be there about 7pm
Glad you can make it. Ever drive an RV?

[stelmon]

I just got an email from Don about him not being able to go. Ralf, what time would be coming home around on monday, because I have to be home around 7. If that is to early I don't want to make you guys come home early so i'll miss another outing.

RV? Don't tell me you want me to get you all lost:p :D

[Shoeman]

We should be home by 5 or 6 on Monday.
I figure 2 1/2 days is enough to catch 1 fish.

[STEELHEAD]

What time is everyone fishing on Saturday? And how does everyone communicate on the river(FRS or VHF)? I have 2 extra bags of skien if someone needs some.;)

[stelmon]

Alright, I will see you around 7 on friday. Getting in touch with broncobuster to see if I can get those waders off him.


Thinking about bringing my flyrod for trout. Is anyone else doing this in case we have an oppurtunity or is everyone going after steelthe whole time??

[No Threat]

Hey everyone, I have a boat all ready to go Sat. morning. But my brother just cancelled on me so i'm coming solo. I will gladly bring my boat if someone wants to ride, or if someone has room on another boat I will pitch in for gas. Just let me know.
Thanks Jeff

[northern_outdoorsman]

Well...I can't make it to this one now...I have to work to meet a deadline:( ...That is unless someone has a high paying job with good benefits that starts Tuesday...I was talking to Stelmon and from what i gathered he might not be makin it either, so mabey he and I will try and hit a local River in between my work this weekend...Have Fun Everyone...See ya at the next one!

[stelmon]

Yup, will not be making it this time. Maybe next time when I have a high paying job and I can afford it plus I have a nice and reliable JEEP:p. I guess this is what you call life:confused: Hope you all have a great time and catch me a few steelhead. Also, could we think about having the next outing in oscoda maybe?

[hasenpfeffer]

Don! Thats a drag! I know how you feel:(
Been a long day for me. I'm almost all packed and ready. A few last minute details to work out, but other than that, I'll be at shamrock friday evening late. My friends nearly bailed on me, but they promised to come later sat morning. I'm just going to fish around the dam sat AM until they get there. Then I'm thinkin we'll head down river.
Going to bed now, like I said, " long day"!

[stelmon]

Ok, disreguard the post above. I will be coming to get my first steelhead, Thanks ralf! Don, check your yahoo!

[hasenpfeffer]

Man thats a double drag! I even told my friends I was going to finally fish with stelmon! I was even thinking of making a tee shirt for it, "I fished with stelmon" :)
Ah well, see yah guys at the next one:p

[Shoeman]

He promised to tie all our spawn, clean our fish and the boat. LOL

Erik, I love the idea of the "I fished with Stelmon" shirt.

Almost a "trostian" phrase. :p

[stelmon]

Ya right, you "old farts" are the best a youngster like me could ever have. I have fished 3 time more then I ever did with my dad. I can't tell you guys how much I appreciate it. I did write an article for the site like like 3 weeks ago but guess it was not good enough!

Thanks guys!

hasenpfeffer~you can still make that T-shirt!

[stelmon]

LMAO

[hasenpfeffer]

You guys are confusing me now. Thats not nice. Guess I'll have to look into those tee shirts after all:) Cool!
See ya"ll at the river!

[Shoeman]

and a place to park the RV.
He'll be too tired to fish

[stelmon]

Yes, I am going to be famous!:p

Dang, I will be to tired to fish. After being up all night last night studying, and doing the same thing tonight I will probably be sleeping on the way there. I guess I should be packing warm. Watch out steelhead, I am coming after you with my eye,s half open:D

[stelmon]

Originally posted by Shoeman
Ever drive an RV?

Are you sure you want me driving?:D

I'll get my sleep!

[broncbuster2]

I will be putting signs up :

LOOK out for stelmon in the RV.............LOL
:eek: :D

[Shoeman]

Stelmon, make sure you bring your sleeping bag.

Did you need waders? If you do, what size?

Sorry to appear so frugal, but Uncle Sam dealt me a sh**ty.

[northern_outdoorsman]

Just wanted to wish everyone Good Luck and have fun!!!! Have Stelmon catch a Steelie for me...a BIG Female full of eggs, clean the fish and bag the eggs in a ziplock:D

The only other thing I have to say is I'd hate to be the guy I am working with this weekend:eek:

Have fun and take easy on the Stelmon, he's a great young man!
Most of all....Tear up them fish!!!!! I will be here planning the next outing when I ain't at work.

[northern_outdoorsman]

Did you need waders? If you do, what size?

Ralf...He is 16...yours should fit him fine...LOL :D

[broncbuster2]

I have given stelmon a pair of stocking foot waders.......all he has to do is pick them up.
have already sent a pm to him about them. All he would need is a pair of boots.
Ralph are you using I96 to go across state, or 94....I live just north of 96 and if comming this way you could stop on your way.

[Shoeman]

It sure wouldn't make sense to take 96 to go to Berrien.
If he wants to go before coming to my house, that's cool.
At 7 mpg's. I could buy him a pair. lol

[broncbuster2]

ok ......sorry it was just a thought

[Shoeman]

Great thought, but not on the way.
Thanks Jerry, but he would still need boots. What size does he wear?

[TBone]

I have a pair of 10s that only have one hole that he could wear!:p :p

I do have another pair without holes (actually they are brand new so I can't say that. I haven't worn them yet.) He could borrow those as well. Despite all the grief that Spanky gets about the G-Raft, I trust it to keep my feet dry!
T

[stelmon]

Thank bronchobuster but it will have to be some other time. When I am over on your side ill let you know. I still interested!

As far as waders, I am a large. I don't know about shoesize, maybe a 12-13. I really don't know!

Don, have a great time at the outing at stoney and thanks man!

Ralf, we taking 94 across?

Oh and guys, you are in for a treat. My mommy has made us some delicious cookies and maybe brownies. Would you guys like the sausage.

[rookie1]

Good luck everyone! I hope to be able to make the next one.

[Shoeman]

Thanks Rookie.

Stelmon, tell your mom, we're also very partial to Lobster and Prime Rib. lol

[Spanky]

just spent 15 minutes making a post but the frickin V bulliten crap wouldn't let me send it so I can't remember the whole thing and I am pretty much fed up with it anyways so ....If there are any changes or problems about the outing that I can help you with please just PM me, I will make some room in my box. See everyone when I get there. Be safe and see ya later. :(

[stelmon]

All set up and ready to go. i have an order put infor my dad to the fish fairies. My dad would like one nice silver steelhead and a few walleye, lol

Cya in a bit

[mich buckmaster]

As some of you know I am a third grade school teacher. After going to work on Friday I had a young girls family come to get her and passed on some news that her dad (38)years old, Had a stroke or something. I found out last night that he has a blood clot in his corrodid? artery and has a good chance of dieing.

Ive been asked by the family to hang out today with the 5 kids. I have had 4 of them while teaching and have become very close to the family. I am sorry but I will try and make it down to meet some of you tonight or tomorrow.

Spanky if you have your laptop, thanks for trying to set us all up. Maybe I can make it tomorrow.

Dave

[STEELHEAD]

I will be there Sunday morning with my crew. We want to get an early start, 7am or so. I have heard they are getting some fresh fish down river from Jasper Diary. I hope Stelmon gets into a couple of nice steelhead.;)

[StumpJumper]

I hope we all can!!! I have my smoker all ready for some steelie fillets!;)