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Running Your Business Effectively While Camping

January 23, 2023 by · 1 Comment

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Simple Tips for Running Your Business Effectively While Camping

A Guest Blog by Julia Mitchell

For outdoor enthusiasts who also happen to be business owners, it can be challenging to strike a healthy balance between enjoying nature and meeting your company’s demands. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice one or the other. There are ways to keep your business running efficiently, even when you are away from the office. Spotted Tail has provided some practical tips for maintaining your work-life balance while in the wilderness!

Picking a Campsite

When choosing a campsite, consider which amenities will help you balance work and play most effectively. Some campsites may offer basic electricity hookups to charge devices, and there might even be Wi-Fi available in specific areas. If those amenities aren’t available, consider investing in a solar power kit to keep your devices charged throughout the day (and night).

Specific Amenities To Consider

As you pick out amenities for your campsite, think about what will make it easier for you to conduct business while still having time for leisure activities. Look into “glamping“ sites that provide luxuries like air-conditioning and hot showers, or bring along portable fans, air mattresses, or other extra items to keep you comfortable.

Don’t forget about charging stations. If your site doesn’t have outlets near the tent area, bring a long extension cord so you can power up your devices from anywhere on the property.

Finding Remote Work Tools

The Internet is chock-full of tools that make remote working easier than ever before. Invest in a reliable laptop or tablet and use online tools like Google Docs, Slack, Skype, and Dropbox to stay connected with colleagues and clients. Such platforms allow you to share documents, host video conferences, collaborate on projects, and more.

PDF documents are invaluable when it comes to working with multiple people or teams, as they provide a secure and efficient way to store and share information. PDFs allow all users to view the same document without the risk of the file being corrupted or edited while in transit.

Further, you can easily convert PDFs into other popular formats like Word or Excel if you need to. And many cloud services support PDFs meaning all your team members can quickly access the relevant information, no matter where they are. Moreover, there are plenty of free online solutions to make the process even easier. For example, you can combine multiple PDF files with a merging tool.

Changing Your Legal Structure

Forming an LLC can be particularly beneficial to those who love to go camping and take wilderness trips. This type of business entity provides financial protection, allowing owners to keep their personal and business finances separate while avoiding various risks or liabilities that could arise.

Additionally, some LLCs are taxed as pass-through entities, meaning you can deduct specific expenses related to camping trips, such as gear, supplies, and transportation. And many states allow LLCs to exist in multiple locations, making it easier for business owners to plan extended excursions without disrupting their operations.

Getting Online in the Wilderness

If you don’t have access to Wi-Fi or an electricity hookup at your campsite, you might need to get creative about how you get online. Research satellite Internet options, mobile hotspots, and/or personal routers (which allow multiple devices to connect). If all else fails, you can always take advantage of free public Wi-Fi spots in nearby restaurants or cafés. Just remember to stay safe by using a VPN!

Conclusion

At the end of the day, camping is supposed to be a relaxing experience. But as an entrepreneur, it’s essential not to lose sight of your professional responsibilities while away from the office.

By planning carefully and investing in a few extra pieces of gear, balancing your work and play might be easier than you think. Keep the tips above in mind as you plan your next camping trip, and enjoy the peace of mind of knowing that work and pleasure are within reach!

Would you like to read more helpful content or tap into our wide array of fishing resources? Visit SpottedTail.com today!

Julia Mitchell, incredibly passionate about the activities that fill her days, wants to share her adoration for her favorite lifestyle topics with the world and encourage others to turn their INspiration into OUTspiration.

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An Ode to Redfish

December 17, 2022 by · Leave a Comment

An Ode to Redfish Photo Essay, and a Merry Christmas to All

Thanks for reading this week’s post, Ode to Redfish. I only went fishing one day this week. Weather was fine when I left home, started pouring as soon as I put the boat in the water. I waited in the car for an hour, hoping it would stop. Then the boat resumed its place on my car’s roof, and we went home. No fishing.

And a Merry Christmas to all! And the Winter solstice 2022 in Northern Hemisphere will be at 4:47 PM on Wednesday, December 21!

Wanting to post this week because I won’t again until 2023, the Ode to Redfish idea struck. Here it is!

For subscribers- if the photos don’t load, click this link- www.spottedtail.com/blog.

The Copper Coated Crab Cruncher

By John Kumiski

The copper coated crab cruncher
just crunches crabs all day.
He’ll also eat some shrimp and fish
to while his time away.

You’ll find him sometimes tailing.
Sometimes he just sits still.
Sometimes he keeps a-cruising,
hoping his gut to fill.

He’ll sometimes be all by himself.
Other times he’ll be with friends.
No one can say why he does what.
On him it all depends.

They come sometimes as little rats.
They come as big bull reds.
I’d rather see them live and swimming
than in someone’s cooler, dead.

I catch them while I’m wading.
I catch them from my boat.
Some days I catch none at all.
But always I have hope.

I catch them with my spinning rod.
I catch them with my flies.
No matter how I catch them,
It almost gets me high.

I really love that redfish,
though he’s a simple beast.
Spending a day where redfish live
is a wonderful sensory feast.

I know this is a silly poem,
but I’m a silly boy.
One thing you can be sure of though,
redfish make me jump with joy!

I don’t know if Santa likes to fish. Rodney Smith, Banana River Lagoon. Merry Christmas!!!

 

Scott Radloff, off Cape Canaveral.

 

The late Joe Mulson casts, Tom Mitzlaff poles, Mosquito Lagoon.

 

The late Lefty Kreh, Indian River Lagoon.

 

River and Mike Conneen, St. George Sound.

 

Mark Marsh with a fatty, Indian River Lagoon.

 

Mosquito Lagoon tailers.

 

Son Maxx, first redfish on fly, Indian River Lagoon.

 

Patrick Phillips, Banana River Lagoon. I still use the kayak, 20 years later!

 

The inimitable Tamazon, Mosquito Lagoon.

 

George Allen, early morning Mosquito Lagoon.

 

My brother-in-law Richie Surprise, Indian River Lagoon. This image was a Florida Sportsman cover.

 

Laurel Boylen, Mosquito Lagoon.

 

Maxx and Alex, Indian River Lagoon.

 

Redfish portrait, Banana River Lagoon.

 

Bryan Carter, Ken Shannon, Plaqueman’s Parrish, Louisiana.

 

Austin Warmus, Mosquito Lagoon.

 

Bob Duport and Terri, Mosquito Lagoon.

 

Tom Van Horn, Mosquito Lagoon.

 

Alex and Maxx, Banana River Lagoon.

 

I forget this guy’s name, unfortunately. He got this big red and it squirted milt all over his legs. Indian River Lagoon.

 

Kevin is holding what looks like a redfish but is actually a trip to the Haunted House with Dad at Disney World.

 

Susan, Little Talbot Island.

 

Redfish school, Mosquito Lagoon.

 

Valentine redfish, East Bay.

 

The late Steve Baker, Mosquito Lagoon.

 

A deformed redfish, Mosquito Lagoon.

 

Charlie Chapman, Banana River Lagoon.

 

Marcia Foosaner, Indian River Lagoon. The Space Shuttle, carrying John Glenn, goes up behind her.

 

Redfish portrait, Mosquito Lagoon.

 

Redfish portrait, Indian River Lagoon.

That’s the Ode to Redfish. Thanks for reading! And a Merry Christmas to all!!!

Every day is a blessing. Don’t waste it- Go fishing! Go paddling! Take a walk! Stay active!

John Kumiski
www.johnkumiski.com
www.spottedtail.com
www.spottedtail.com/blog

All content in this blog, including writing and photos, copyright John Kumiski 2022. All rights are reserved.

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Fish and Birds No Fishing Report

July 15, 2022 by · Leave a Comment

Fish and Birds No Fishing Report

Thanks for reading this fish and birds no fishing report. The format of this report will be different- no fishing for me this week! My only excursion was to the Orlando Wetlands Park, so there may be a few dragonfly shots here.

Responding to last week’s posting the video of the pigeon-eating catfish and my need to tie up pigeon flies for Mosquito Lagoon, subscriber George Fleszar wrote to me, “I think you might be better off trying Sternula antillarum tied on a 12/0 Mustad 3407-DT.” Good idea, George!

George also included this link-

https://youtu.be/h4pxLHG0Wzs Awesome! Thank you, George!

Now intrigued on the subject of bird-eating fish, I found this link-

https://youtu.be/OD6cQ2dh7Mo Incredible!

I went for a hot, sweaty walk at the wetlands park one morning, looking for dragonflies. Of course, there were some, but many fewer than my last trip. The four-spotted pennants’ numbers, in particular, took a nose-dive. But I managed to get a few decent shots…

Eastern Pondhawk, female.

 

Halloween Pennant.

 

Needham’s Skimmer, male.

 

Four-Spotted Pennant, female.

I do love the dragonflies! And you may gain more appreciation for them too, if you watch this-

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iJi61NAIsjs Just stunning!

Birds also eat fish. I found the following links in a book I’m reading (and highly recommend) titled, Beyond Words- What Animals Think and Feel, by Carl Safina. My first thought was, “How would he know?” Read the book- you’ll find out.

You know green herons fish. Did you know they can use bait?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Porp5v5lLKk  They’re smarter than we give them credit for.

This one is of a problem-solving crow.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gui3IswQ0DI  I’ve had students who couldn’t have solved that one. Heck, I might not be able to.

Finally, the Audubon Society has just published the results of its annual bird photography contest, simply outstanding and an excellent use of your time-

https://www.audubon.org/news/the-2022-audubon-photography-awards-top-100?utm_source=pocket-newtab

That’s the fish and birds no fishing report. Thanks for reading!

Every day is a blessing. Don’t waste it- Go fishing! Go paddling! Take a walk! Stay active!

John Kumiski
www.johnkumiski.com
www.spottedtail.com
www.spottedtail.com/blog

All content in this blog, including writing and photos, copyright John Kumiski 2022. All rights are reserved.

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8 Great Gifts for Your Adventurous Child

March 16, 2022 by · Leave a Comment

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8 Great Gifts for Your Adventurous Child

Guest Blog by Patrick Young

Having a kid who’s extra active is a good thing. Kids who are adventurous or athletic are given excellent opportunities to develop skills like leadership, sportsmanship, and basic social skills. Being active can be educational, too, especially when taking place outside, such as doing a little storm watching and teaching them meteorology in the convenience of your own backyard. If you have a child who’s always raring to go, look no further than this guide to 8 great gifts for your adventurous child, from Spotted Tail Outdoors and Travel.

1. A dirt bike

If your kid loves exploring the outdoors, a dirt bike could be the perfect gift. Dirt bikes are an excellent way to develop physical strength and muscles which aren’t typically used in day-to-day activities. Make sure you research online before making a final purchase. You’ll need a bike with the right design and features for your child, as well as education on how to operate the bike. Of course, your child will need protective gear as well, including goggles, gloves, and a helmet.

2. An archery set

Have your child get in touch with his inner Robin Hood by getting him an archery set. Archery can help children learn to focus and build upper body strength, plus it’s an activity that can be enjoyed by anyone at any time of the year.

3. Roller blades

Rollerblading is a rite of passage for every kid. It never gets old and gives you good cardio while still gaining distance. Trailrunners will often use rollerblading as a supplementary workout because of its ability to help participants develop better balance and cardio strength.

4. A basketball hoop

Expert basketball players develop a remarkable predictive memory and pattern recognition ability that is honed through practice. A basketball hoop and ball are a great way for your child to get a high-intensity workout while also learning reflexes. Basketball is fun to play alone and on a team, which is great if you have multiple children who enjoy the game. They’ll learn how to take turns and have fun getting out some of their extra energy.

5. A softball set

A softball set can be useful for learning hand-eye coordination and building self-esteem. Your child will learn how to throw, catch, and hit a ball. They can practice with you or with friends, learning teamwork in tandem.

6. Fishing net or pole

If your child is into the great outdoors, a fishing net or a pole is a great way to share a new sport they can get hooked on. Fishing can help kids manage stress and is simply good for the soul. Fishing teaches patience and how to work with your hands. Plus it’s a hobby that can last a lifetime.

7. Hammock

The popularity of hammocking is growing rapidly and gives kids a reason to go outside and unplug. Hammocking is great for your child who wants to go for a hike and hammock in the woods, but he can also set it up in the backyard or in a nearby park.

8. Slackline

Slacklining is pretty much modern-day tightrope walking. It helps with balance, patience, and works core muscles. The best place to start is the backyard with a slackline kit made for kids or beginners.

Researchers at the American Academy of Pediatrics highlight that playing is an important part of helping kids develop in a healthy way. Children need play to grow. Playing outside is even better, and giving them the tools and opportunities to boost their interest paves the way for an active lifestyle.

And that wraps up our guide to this guide to 8 great gifts for your adventurous child!

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Find Deals on Great Camping Gifts

February 17, 2022 by · Leave a Comment

Image via Pixabay

How to Find Deals on Great Camping Gifts

Guest Blog by Patrick Young

This post is about How to Find Deals on Great Camping Gifts!

In case you hadn’t heard, camping is in style. The stresses of modern life make retreating to nature more appealing than ever. Plus, thanks to modern technology, campers can enjoy the wonders of the great outdoors without giving up the creature comforts of modern life. Camping equipment can often be pricey, but that doesn’t mean that new equipment is out of reach, financially speaking. If you’re looking for a gift for the outdoor enthusiast in your life, here are some great options that won’t break the bank.

Tents as Gifts

When it comes to staying in the great outdoors, comfort is paramount. That’s why good camping gifts put function over form. The tent is arguably the most important part of the camping experience. Even though tents can be expensive, there are plenty of ways to find affordable and comfortable outdoor lodgings.

Walmart has a few options for under $300, including a four-room tent, with spots for electronic storage and extension cords. The tent can sleep up to 14 and is big enough to accommodate a queen bed. There are ways to find offers and sales at big retail stores online. These coupons make even big camping gifts, like tents, affordable. REI is known for its great camping gear and has a deal section right on its website. Many stores, big and small, have a clearance section online, just like in the store. This makes finding great deals easier.

Keep Things Cool

One of the most difficult things about camping is the food. Yes, you can pack a lot of food that doesn’t need to be refrigerated, but most campers need refrigeration. That means they need something to keep things cool at the campsite.

The Yeti Tundra is the gold standard in coolers. Their top-of-the-line insulation can keep ice from melting for days. Of course, the gold standard doesn’t come cheap. Dicks Sporting Goods sells YETI coolers, but they start at around $200. There are discounts available often, so don’t assume that they’re out of reach. There are also portable refrigerators available, but they’re not recommended for all campers. They don’t hold a lot, and some use a lot of power. However, campers who need to refrigerate medication may find portable ‘fridges useful.

Electronics Are Always a Hit

Every camper needs a power source. Even more austere outdoors enthusiasts who choose to forgo electronics while in nature will need electricity for other things, like reading lamps, mini-fridges or recharging phones. Campers are always in need of power banks. The good news is that power banks usually aren’t cost-prohibitive. A higher-priced power bank may be able to charge more items, but not all campers need to power a lot of electronics.
For campers who only need to charge up a few devices, a simple power bank can help you keep everything powered. Or, you can also invest in a portable solar charger for your smartphone; this way, you won’t need to worry about your power bank running out of power before the end of your camping trip. If you’re looking for options, Good Housekeeping has a great list of solar power chargers to check out.

Camping gifts are perfect for the nature lover in your life. They can be affordable, or lavish. Just remember, when it comes to camping, comfort is key! And that’s How to Find Deals on Great Camping Gifts!

For more advice and expert insight on travel and fishing, be sure to check out Spotted Tail Outdoors and Travel and bookmark our page today!

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No Fishing This Week Report

January 29, 2022 by · Leave a Comment

No Fishing This Week Report

Hi everyone, thanks for reading this no fishing this week report. I did get out and walk along the Econ on Thursday, and if truth be told, cast for shad for about 30 minutes under the Snow Hill Road bridge. Didn’t touch one.

Anyone who was interested in the flies, three minutes after my posting last week’s blog, someone called me and bought them. Sorry to everyone who didn’t get them.

Two weeks ago I wrote, “Tuesday was even more exciting search for tile, orchestrated by Susan!” Needless to say, that story did not end there. The installers came Monday, ripped out the carpet, and installed the the-tile-will-sit-better-on-this-stuff stuff. Tuesday they came back and installed the tile. Wednesday, I moved my stuff back in, an almost all-day chore.

The newly re-designed office. The hurricane panels are no longer in the window!

It do look good, though. And hopefully this is the last time I’ll be writing about it.

While all this was going on, I was feverishly working on one of my websites. I (think I) finished it Friday evening. I’d be honored if you would visit and check it out. I’d really appreciate feedback, especially if you find mistakes. There are lots of photos- I’d like to think there’s some solid entertainment value there! The URL is https://johnkumiski.com.

That’s my no fishing this week report. Hope to fish this week! Thanks for reading!

Every day is a blessing. Don’t waste it- Go fishing! Go paddling! Take a walk! Stay active!

John Kumiski, author of Fishing Florida by Paddle- An Angler’s Guide

Purchase a signed copy of Fishing Florida by Paddle- An Angler’s Guide at http://www.spottedtail.com/fishing-florida-by-paddle/

All content in this blog, including writing and photos, copyright John Kumiski 2022. All rights are reserved.

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Kids and Camping

January 19, 2022 by · Leave a Comment

Kids and Camping: What to Know Before You Go

Guest Blog by Patrick Young

A fun-filled weekend in the “wilderness” is always a short drive away any season of the year. Bringing the kids camping gives them memories they’ll never forget. They’ll grow up with an appreciation of nature, the desire to pitch in, and the ability to do things on their own. If you’re bringing kids along, it can take a little more planning and some precaution. This piece shares the basics of camping with kids.

Plan Ahead

Check out areas where you might want to camp several weeks ahead of time. In some areas, popular campgrounds can fill up a year in advance, so book early if you’re planning a trip to a major national park or heavily visited area. For your first few trips, stick with campgrounds, which offer dedicated sites, security, and access to emergency services.

Many state and national parks offer ranger-led activities for the kids, so be sure to enquire. These Junior Ranger Programs are an excellent way to introduce the youngest members of your family to the outdoors in a safe and structured environment.

It’s also important to remember what not to plan. ZenBusiness has a number of suggestions for things you’re better off leaving at home. This list includes your calendar, your worries, and your sense of conformity.

Dangerous Grounds

One of the most common mistakes made by new camping families is not taking into consideration seasonal changes. Regardless of what part of the country you visit, there can be sudden temperature shifts and unexpected storms that can lead to rapid cooling, especially at night.

Heat is an issue in the summer with those in the 10-and-under crowd, who do not have fully developed sweat glands, being most at-risk for heat-related issues. Check the weather at least two days before you go, and have a backup plan in place for high winds or excessive rain.

Note, there may be cell phone coverage even in the most remote areas. Add a portable wireless or solar charger to your gear so you can stay apprised of forecasts and warnings.

Hiking Safety

Camping and hiking go hand in hand. Unfortunately, getting lost is a common problem. Your kids should be taught early on how to recognize campsites and landmarks on unfamiliar trails. Instruct your child that, if separated, they should stay where they are and try to remain calm. A small whistle attached to a lanyard around the child’s neck will allow them to call for help even if they are out of earshot. Small Car Camping reports that a simple, inexpensive plastic whistle can output more than 100 dB, which can be heard at long distances above ambient noise.

Always wear proper footwear to prevent blistering. Children should be dressed in brightly-colored clothing so they are more easily seen against the greens and browns of the woods.

Poison ivy- you find it everywhere. Learn what the plant looks like, and teach your children to avoid it.

Finally, you need to carry a first aid kit with lots of Band-aids. All parents should take a standard first aid course.

You’ll find poison ivy in lots of places.

Selecting a Campsite

When setting up a campsite, remain diligent against man-made dangers like broken glass. In wilderness areas, pay attention to signs of insect and animal use. Be mindful of the flora of the area (poison ivy!), as animals may forage for food where berries and other edible plants are readily available. Keep your food secure, too. Nothing attracts unwelcome wildlife like food odors.

Plants can be sources of delicious entertainment, too!

Time-saving Tips

● Pack like items together in cheap plastic bins (kitchen gear, toiletries, clothes, shoes, etc.)

● Download a map of the area ahead of time

● Pack one-ply toilet paper, which won’t clog small trailer toilets

● Use a multi-room tent, or more than one tent. Leave one room for changing and storing dirty clothes so you’re not constantly cleaning up

● Keep dinner simple – hot dogs, brats, and shish kebabs are easily cooked over a campfire; other foods can be prepped ahead of time and frozen.

Kids and camping go together like hot dogs and potato chips. Take the kids camping- all it takes is a little planning and a sense of adventure!
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Spotted Tail offers the best information for travelers and fishermen. Please use the contact form if you have any questions!

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Best Gift Ideas for Those Who Enjoy the Great Outdoors

December 16, 2021 by · Leave a Comment

The Best Gift Ideas for Those Who Enjoy the Great Outdoors

                                                                               Image courtesy of Pixabay

A Guest Blog by Patrick Young

Seeking the perfect present for a nature loving special someone? Look no further! Spotted Tail Fishing and Travel has found the best gift ideas for your outdoorsy loved one in your life.

Wanderlust

Does your nature lover combine the love of the great outdoors with a love of travel? Why not select a gift that combines both passions? Here are some ideas that marry the two hobbies beautifully:

●Framed maps. Maps from favored state parks and hiking trails can look really lovely in a frame. It’s a fantastic way to record where your loved one went, or the maps can signify eagerly anticipated bucket list trips.

●Bunting. Taking personalization a step further, a bunting made from maps or flags can be a highly individualized gift. Bits of lace or ribbon can feminize the look, tie with rope or twine for masculine appeal, or add an interesting washi tape that brings out your loved one’s sense of style.

●Keepsake box. Another fun use for those maps: decoupage them onto a box to store keepsakes and mementos. You can stencil your loved one’s initials onto the top for aneven more personalized touch, or attach a photo, token or other sentimental remembrance onto the lid.

●Shadow Box. Not feeling very crafty? If your nature lover is an angler, pull together various bits of ephemera, like fishing lures, fishing tour receipts, and the like, and sift them together into a display. It’ll look attractive on the mantel or shelf, and your loved one will enjoy revisiting the memories now and then.

Other explorations

Many outdoors enthusiasts prefer to navigate nature close to home, or are simply well-suited with other kinds of presents. Fear not – we found terrific options to tailor to those tastes, too.

● Nature photograph. Redfin reminds us that adding touches of Mother Nature in the home can offer a mood boost and a dose of stress relief. Give your loved one a framed print of their favorite fishing trip, state park or ocean view.

● Fishing book. If your angler lives in Florida or visits there often, the “Fishing Florida by Paddle- An Angler’s Guide” by John Kumiski makes a great holiday gift. Filled suggested journeys via paddle craft, your loved one will have plenty of trips to plan for.

● Naturalist’s Notebook. Collecting field notes and observations is an interesting and fun way for nature lovers to explore and revisit their journeys. This five-year journal offers guidance for the sorts of experiences one might record, such as the first birdsong of spring and sightings of butterflies, along with illustrations and a calendar format. Campers, hikers, hunters and gardeners are sure to love this beautiful book. Attractive and inspirational, “The Naturalist’s Notebook” is available from Storey.com.

● Tent. For those who enjoy camping at the edges of trails, in the backyard, or deep in the forest, a good tent is a must-have. The “Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL3 Tent” offers a three-person, three-season shelter and is lightweight. Available from REI.com.

● Knife. A good knife is indispensable for most outdoor adventures. The experts at Gear Junkie recommend Gerber Curve Multi-Chain Tool for affordability and good quality. Comfortable, well-made and handy, it’s ready to go along for any excursion your loved one plans. Available at Amazon.

● Water. Access to clean water is not only a convenience but important for safety during outdoor treks. Provide your loved one with this basic essential by gifting the “LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle.” The built-in filter removes more than 99% of bacteria and parasites. Available from Amazon.com.

Finding that perfect present just got easier! Whether creative and inspirational or practical and hardworking, you’ll find something that fuels your nature lover’s dreams. Whatever your loved one’s passion is, we’ve got you covered!

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Spread the Spore!

October 21, 2021 by · Leave a Comment

Spread the Spore!

When the Spread the Spore mushroom grow kit from northspore.com arrived, I let it sit. Didn’t quite know what to do with it. After a few days me sister said to me, “The stuff in that kit is alive. You really need to get it started.”

The next day I read the instructions and watched the video. Pretty simple, John! Remove the perforated paperboard from the front of the box, cut an “X” in the plastic, spray it with water (sprayer supplied), and let it sit on the counter near the sink. OK, I can do that.

Five days after I started spritzing, I had this!

In only a few days, baby mushrooms appeared! Like magic! I kept spritzing it twice a day, and five days after I cut the plastic, I was harvesting the pink oyster mushrooms.

After harvesting your mushrooms look like this.

 

I separated them all before cooking.

 

After cooking a few minutes…

Following the recipe included with the kit, I sautéed the ‘shrooms, then used them to make one of the better omelets I’ve ever had. Eaten alone, the mushrooms were outstanding!

Mmmm, mushroom omelet!

The directions say the kit may produce several rounds of mushrooms. After harvesting the mushrooms, I put the box back on the counter and spritzed it again. Hopefully there will be more in a few more days!

Susan grooves on the mushrooms!

The mushroom grow kit was easy, fun, and delicious. Get more information at www.northspore.com.

Like northspore says, spread the spore!

 

John Kumiski, author of Fishing Florida by Paddle- An Angler’s Guide

Purchase a signed copy of Fishing Florida by Paddle- An Angler’s Guide at http://www.spottedtail.com/fishing-florida-by-paddle/

All content in this blog, including writing and photos, copyright John Kumiski 2021. All rights are reserved.

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Home This Week Post

March 13, 2021 by · 2 Comments

Home This Week Post

I stayed home this week. Thank you for reading this week’s Home This Week post! As the soothsayer said, Beware the Ides of March!

No Surprise There Department

This manatee probably wants a solid meal.

Received a press release from the Defenders of Wildlife-
“More than 400 Florida manatees have died since the start of 2021, fueling concern for the iconic and federally threatened species’ future. The 2021 mortalities are larger than the combined totals of the first two months of 2010, during a particularly cold and prolonged winter. While the current winter has not been as severe, scientists are examining the causes for the dramatic spike in deaths. So far, cold stress combined with the loss of large areas of seagrass—the manatees’ staple food—appear to be the primary causes of death in recent months for manatees along the central and south Atlantic coast of Florida.

“Due to a variety of factors, including water pollution and algal blooms exacerbated by urban and agricultural runoff, leaking septic systems and other culprits, significant areas of seagrass meadows that manatees depend on have been wiped out, causing many animals to become sick or starve.”

The Save the Manatee Club made a big newsy splash back around year 2000 by suing the state of Florida and the Federal Government for not doing enough to save manatees. The result of that was huge new slow speed zones for boaters. We must have been an easy target.

I’ve been wondering for five or six years now where the SMC was, since all the seagrass was dying and they haven’t made a peep about it. Hard to sue everyone who eats and poops.

I don’t the problem will be solved for a long time. Get used to dirty water and a lot fewer manatees. It’s sad.

Boat Class

Marker 24 Marina, a shiny new facility.

Wednesday mid-day found me at Marker 24 Marina on Merritt Island, where I joined Capt. Mike Berry for Boat Class, Intermediate BoatClass + Advanced Docking.

If you want to legally operate a motor vehicle on the highways of the United States, you must pass a written test that shows that you know what the rules are, and you must pass a road test that shows you can competently operate a motor vehicle. Here in Florida, if you want to operate a motor vessel, you just buy it, get in, and go.

Florida ranks No. 1 nationwide in both recreational boating accidents and deaths on the water, according to a United States Coast Guard report released this week. It’s an unwanted distinction that the state has earned every year since at least 2015. According to the Coast Guard’s 2019 Recreational Boating Statistics Report released Wednesday, there were 679 boat accidents in Florida that year. Of those, 55 were fatal, resulting in 62 deaths.

Might some boater education mitigate those grim statistics???

Capt. Mike teaches the three-hour class, on the water!

Brunswick Corporation has kicked off BoatClass, which I found to be very thorough. Three hours of on-the-water boat operation, led by an expert boater! The stress on safety was admirable. I don’t meet many people with more boating experience than mine, but Capt. Mike has a lot more, and taught me many things that I did not know. I recommend the class without reservation- it’s superb!

Get more information here- https://www.boatblurb.com/post/brunswick-corporation-launches-boatclass-on-water-training-program.

Fishing Friday
Friday the wind was down enough (you can understand why wind-pollinated plants like slash pines and live oaks drop their pollen this time of year) that I went kayak fishing on Mosquito Lagoon. There are plants growing on the bottom again in many places. They’re invasive, and are probably going to cause more problems. We’ll see.

I could tell it had been a while since I was out. There was rust! 🙁  I pooched a couple easy shots, not that there were lots of chances.

I showed the fly to four redfish. Two spooked off, two bit. I caught one, the other coming off after a few seconds. The day was beautiful, there was joy to be had just paddling around on a day like that. There are many fewer boats out there than there used to be. I guess that happens when the fishing goes to hell.

I’ll keep trying though. There is still the sun, and the water, and the birds, and an occasional fish…

Thank you for reading this week’s Home This Week post!

Life is great and I love life!

Every day is a blessing. Don’t waste it- Go fishing! or walk on a trail!

John Kumiski, author of Fishing Florida by Paddle- An Angler’s Guide

Purchase a signed copy of Fishing Florida by Paddle- An Angler’s Guide at http://www.spottedtail.com/fishing-florida-by-paddle/

All content in this blog, including writing and photos, copyright John Kumiski 2021. All rights are reserved.

Filed Under: Fishing Reports, Mosquito Lagoon Fishing Report, opinion, Uncategorized · Tagged: , , , , ,
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