DAVE BECK

Have you driven by any of the boat landings near Red Wing, Minn., lately? Holy smoked carp! It’s crazy how many boats are hitting the water these days. There have literally been hundreds on the water every day and that’s just too crowded for me. Because I have a walleye itch to scratch, I needed to set up shop downriver, away from the crowd.   

Fishing further downriver has always been a bit of a crap shoot for me. More often than not, I have struggled to find fish but I wanted to replenish my fish supply given that I abstain from eating meat on Fridays during the Lenten season. I’m a creature of habit and fish on Fridays is a tradition that was always practiced in my family. 

I met up with my old friend Dave who partners with his faithful dog Falco. Together they make a really terrific bird hunting duo. In a semi-related matter, last year they introduced me to woodcock hunting which will forever be on my “Fall To Do List.” On this outing, Falco was only along for the company and to lick the fish. 

When we finally landed on our fishing spot my hopes were high, yet realistic. Given my downriver experiences, I did wonder if Braunschweiger was considered a meat. I do like frozen fish sticks from the grocery store, but I struggle to eat them on Fridays during Lent because it’s such an obvious reminder that I failed to catch my own fish to eat.   

It didn’t take long for Dave to announce, “Got one,” and the beginnings of a fish fry was born. When the 17-inch walleye landed on the floor of the boat, Falco licked it like an ice cream cone that was going to melt in seconds. Dave actually caught two more fish before I finally got on the scoreboard and quickly made up for lost time by catching my limit. When Dave caught his limit and our livewell was full of fish, we eased towards the landing with Falco pointing the way on the bow of the boat. 

It was a bit of a confidence booster to find fish downriver away from the bumper to bumper crowds. Catching up with Dave and hanging out with Falco made the day even better. I should have enough fish to last me until Easter, unless I eat too many. If that happens, I guess I will be forced to head back downriver. 

Didn’t get enough Dave this week? Visit “Outdoor Trails and Tales with Dave Beck” on Facebook for photos and video of Dave’s adventures. You can share your own photos and video with him there as well, or by emailing him at dave@piercecountyjournal.news Also, check out OTT content on Instagram @thepiercecountyjournal