Boomer’s Adventure Guide

In Search of the Perfect River

Expedition #1: The White River of Arkansas.

Foreword

The very first thing I want to say is I AM NOT A WRITER. I am a photographer who tells stories with pictures not words. This writing thing is new and scary to me. I know I am limited in my writing ability but feel strongly enough about the subject at hand to go ahead and make a fool of myself.

Also, I am going to share my adventures and mis-adventures as I learn the ways of river travel. I am writing this journal in hopes that the lessons I learn will help others who intend to take up float fishing. I have decided to bare my soul in these journal entries.

I am going to look like a real idiot as you read parts of the story. So be it. I do some really dumb things and hopefully you and I can both learn from my mistakes. I am in the process of creating information for those who want to explore the White and whatever other rivers and lakes I paddle in the future. During these efforts I will learn, a great deal about rivers, nature and probably more importantly myself.

Prior river knowledge is important. But it is hard to gain. For safety’s sake it is incumbent of each of us to learn all we can about every river prior to launching our boat. Some of this river knowledge others have known all their lives. But every river is different and I am learning them one at a time. That is what launched me into the exploration mode. I wanted to learn about the white River and didn’t find a lot of helpful info on the internet. Having grown up on the White I thought I knew a lot more than I did. That was the first lesson.

I will be chattering on about all sorts of subjects most of which have to do with experiences with products I am testing or just life’s experiences and observations. I am going to open a window into my soul as I tell you how I feel and what I am thinking during certain parts of the trip. I know I am going to look stupid in a lot of cases but it is sort of my first rodeo so please try to cut me a little slack.

I can guarantee one thing for certain. Some of the things I say will tick some folks off. Sorry, but it’s my personal journal and if you don’t like what you see then you should quit reading.

The reason I started the maps and journal was a lack of information about float fishing and the rivers. I decided last winter that I would like to put my old canoe to use and take up fishing. I’m sixty one now but have no intention of slowing down. I am pre-boomer age by one year. I figure a lot of people are thinking they would like a little adventure in their lives yet realize they are a little over the hill physically. Float fishing include all the neat things involved in an outdoor experience. Fun stuff like camping, scenery, photography, birding, nature viewing, cooking over a campfire or not, boating, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, fly fishing and as I have learned the thrill of the unexpected testing your mettle.

I intend to establish an organization that will enable people to find each other to share trips and information. There are enough books and maps when it comes to the white water scene. But now we are older and it is time for a gentler less strenuous type of outdoor activity. Float fishing requires cooperation among participants whether for shuttle service or partnering for safety’s sake. The companionship and friendships made along the way are a bonus.

The organization will be named Float Fishing America. After I get some maps done and have some journal information to share with people I will establish FFA.
We will use that group to promote the sport and I think you will find “Boomers” jumping on the idea.

To wind up the foreword I want to stress one thing. I know there will be a some old river hands read this blog or journal and kick the crap out of me. That’s o.k., I ‘m not writing this for you. I’m writing it for people like me who have been away from Mother Nature way too long or like my pal Chris Leavitt who grew up in a large city and never had the opportunity to learn the ways of the outdoors. It does not make us bad folks nor should we be targeted for ridicule but if that’s your thing go for it. It will be your problem not mine.

I am having a good time learning and growing with nature. I would challenge you to come join us and lend your expertise so we can learn from you. There are so many people who have never known the beauty nor bounty of the natural world. I am convinced the world would be a better place if we could fill it with outdoorsmen.

If you have your own boat and gear and feel the need for adventure you might want come join us. If so give me a call at 214-912-9106. I will be happy to share info on the when, what and where of the next trips. I am not your guide nor do I represent myself as having a clue about what I am doing. I’ll learn and so will you. I’m not going to be your nanny or cook your food. If you want to be a working member then we will be glad to invite you.