A few weeks ago I came across a website promoting the art of Tenkara, or Japanese fly fishing. I was intrigued, and two days ago I finally decided to buy a Tenkara rod and give it a try, especially on mountain brook trout streams. I ordered the rod from Tenkara USA. I specifically purchased the 11' Iwana along with a traditional Japanese fly line.
Part of the appeal of this new endeavor is the simplicity of the set-up, and it's practical use as a lightweight rod for backpacking. It also hearkens back to my days of fishing for chubs (venerable chubs as Walton wrote) on the Conoy Creek in Elizabethtown. I spent many hours with nothing more than a stick, a piece of monofillament, a hook and dough balls beguiling many a shiner and dace. Occasionally, when the fish gods smiled, I'd catch a sucker or a sunfish.
My rod is currently in transit, and with the approaching storm, I won't be trying it out anytime soon. I hope to make updates throughout the spring to share my success, or failure with his new technique. Stay posted, in the meantime enjoy this video:
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Monday, February 22, 2010
Winter Wonderland
For those living in the Mid-Atlantic region, you know that we have had a lot of snow this winter. I, for one, have enjoyed the change of pace and the chance to engage in activities that usually involve travel to snowier places.
For the first time in 10 years, I was able to use the snowshoes that my wife picked up at EMS on a rental equipment clearance sale. With two feet on the ground, last weekend's tramp through Chiques Park with my buddy Chris R. was quite enjoyable using the snowshoes.
The new trail along the Susquehanna River has proven to be a great place to go to cross-country skiing. The access is still somewhat limited, so not to many people are using it. The tracks that skiers have made are sticking around since the hikers are not trampling them, and because they don't receive direct sunlight. I was able to get out two weekends in a row, and as long as the rain is not too bad later today, hopefully I'll get out next weekend as well.
Another benefit to the amount of snow on the ground is that even though it warmed up enough to go for a ride this past weekend, I was riding through a nice white backdrop. On Sunday, in fact, I almost pulled off a classic double: XC skiing in the morning and cycling in the afternoon.
It will be nice to get out on the track again, and to get in some more rides, but in the meantime, I'll enjoy the change of pace afforded by the winter weather. Coincidentally, I purchased a new pair of Northface Chilkat boots in anticipation of even more snow, but, they are due to arrive this afternoon, and the forecast, as I have said, is calling for rain. Nothing like ordering a new pair of winter boots to jinx the snowfall totals, and to hasten the arrival of spring.
For the first time in 10 years, I was able to use the snowshoes that my wife picked up at EMS on a rental equipment clearance sale. With two feet on the ground, last weekend's tramp through Chiques Park with my buddy Chris R. was quite enjoyable using the snowshoes.
The new trail along the Susquehanna River has proven to be a great place to go to cross-country skiing. The access is still somewhat limited, so not to many people are using it. The tracks that skiers have made are sticking around since the hikers are not trampling them, and because they don't receive direct sunlight. I was able to get out two weekends in a row, and as long as the rain is not too bad later today, hopefully I'll get out next weekend as well.
Another benefit to the amount of snow on the ground is that even though it warmed up enough to go for a ride this past weekend, I was riding through a nice white backdrop. On Sunday, in fact, I almost pulled off a classic double: XC skiing in the morning and cycling in the afternoon.
It will be nice to get out on the track again, and to get in some more rides, but in the meantime, I'll enjoy the change of pace afforded by the winter weather. Coincidentally, I purchased a new pair of Northface Chilkat boots in anticipation of even more snow, but, they are due to arrive this afternoon, and the forecast, as I have said, is calling for rain. Nothing like ordering a new pair of winter boots to jinx the snowfall totals, and to hasten the arrival of spring.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Yellow Springs Rendezvous 2010
What a difference a week in winter makes. Had the YSR been this weekend, we might not have been able to make into Stony Valley. As it turns out, we contended with extremely cold temperatures last weekend, but no snow.
Things didn't begin well as we hit a deer in Kory's truck on the way to the Farmer's Wife for breakfast. The delay while waiting for the police to dispatch the deer that didn't die on impact caused us to miss breakfast. It was, however, worse for the deer.
After breakfast we made our way to the trail-head only to find the Game Commission closed the gate into Stony Valley, our second set-back of the trip. This inconvenience, however, turned out to be a boon as we found a great new access point for the AT, which led to a better camping area than Yellow Springs.
Once in camp, we set up and prepared for a cold night, which meant cutting a lot of wood. Supper and merriment ensued; a good time, I believe, was had by all. And we tied a 19 year record - the temperature Sunday morning was 5 degrees.
Enjoy the photos.
Things didn't begin well as we hit a deer in Kory's truck on the way to the Farmer's Wife for breakfast. The delay while waiting for the police to dispatch the deer that didn't die on impact caused us to miss breakfast. It was, however, worse for the deer.
After breakfast we made our way to the trail-head only to find the Game Commission closed the gate into Stony Valley, our second set-back of the trip. This inconvenience, however, turned out to be a boon as we found a great new access point for the AT, which led to a better camping area than Yellow Springs.
Once in camp, we set up and prepared for a cold night, which meant cutting a lot of wood. Supper and merriment ensued; a good time, I believe, was had by all. And we tied a 19 year record - the temperature Sunday morning was 5 degrees.
Enjoy the photos.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Happy New Year
Twenty ten? two thousand ten? I guess the first one is easier, so happy twenty ten. I never make resolutions, so I won't be posting any here. I'll just have to follow my zen quote on the front page of my blog and see what flows my way.
Last night my wife and I went to our favorite Indian restaurant for supper, and our favorite sitar player was playing. He is also a yoga instructor and has opened a studio. Like I said, I have no resolutions for the New Year, but I'm always on the look out for new endeavors, and I may just have to sign up for a class or two. It never hurts to learn something new, and a new approach, or modification to fitness does the body good. Besides, as I approach 48, flexibility is something I should work on.
Other than that, there is nothing on the horizon, but the GTN triathlon is in the offing.
Good luck this year folks. I ate my pork and sauerkraut for New Years, so I know I have nothing to worry about.
Last night my wife and I went to our favorite Indian restaurant for supper, and our favorite sitar player was playing. He is also a yoga instructor and has opened a studio. Like I said, I have no resolutions for the New Year, but I'm always on the look out for new endeavors, and I may just have to sign up for a class or two. It never hurts to learn something new, and a new approach, or modification to fitness does the body good. Besides, as I approach 48, flexibility is something I should work on.
Other than that, there is nothing on the horizon, but the GTN triathlon is in the offing.
Good luck this year folks. I ate my pork and sauerkraut for New Years, so I know I have nothing to worry about.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Backpacking, Michaux State Forest
This past Sunday to Monday, Brian B., Mike M., Andy B., Kory E. and I went on a 14 mile backpacking trip in Michaux State Forest located in Southcentral PA. It was a fourteen mile loop that I came across on slackpacker.com/midatlantichikes.com. We did the the Rocky Knob-Quarry Gap Loop
We got on the trail at 11:30 Sunday and the weather was beautiful, however, the trail was quite wet due to the recent snow melt. In fact, we were forced to take a detour because we were unable to cross Birch Run.
We put in about 6.5 miles on Sunday, and made camp at the Birch Run Shelter, which was one of the nicest AT shelters I ever stayed in.
The temperatures dropped to about 25 Sunday evening/Monday morning, but having the shelter made things quite easy - the shelter, and a nice fire.
We got on the trail Monday morning at 9:00 and put in 8 miles on the AT. This is a really picturesque section of the trail. The going was fairly easy despite the recent snowfall and icy patches at various places.
We got off the trail at 12:30, and headed to The Pub in Gettysburg, where we had burgers and Brooklyn Brewing's Chocolate Stout.
It was a great two days in the woods.
We got on the trail at 11:30 Sunday and the weather was beautiful, however, the trail was quite wet due to the recent snow melt. In fact, we were forced to take a detour because we were unable to cross Birch Run.
We put in about 6.5 miles on Sunday, and made camp at the Birch Run Shelter, which was one of the nicest AT shelters I ever stayed in.
The temperatures dropped to about 25 Sunday evening/Monday morning, but having the shelter made things quite easy - the shelter, and a nice fire.
We got on the trail Monday morning at 9:00 and put in 8 miles on the AT. This is a really picturesque section of the trail. The going was fairly easy despite the recent snowfall and icy patches at various places.
We got off the trail at 12:30, and headed to The Pub in Gettysburg, where we had burgers and Brooklyn Brewing's Chocolate Stout.
It was a great two days in the woods.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
The Holidays and Winter Fitness
Last week I ordered the final pieces to my winter riding ensemble, and they arrived the day it snowed. I was, like in the past, planning to ride as much as possible over break, but unless the roads clear, I'll be confined to the trainer.
But, on a positive note, I was able to get back on XC skis again after at least a two year break. I had been downhill skiing, but the lack of snowfall and lack of travel time to get up to Crystal Lake, precluded me from hitting the trails.
The best skiing of the weekend came on Sunday evening. My buddy Scot H. and I got out along the river on the new trail. It was crisp, the snow was good (note to self, get glide wax) and it was great to be skiing along the river. I can't wait for the trail to be completed, which will add more miles for recreation.
I can't believe it is almost Christmas. I'm looking forward to the break and spending time with the family. I also hope to do some riding, more xc skiing, and going on an overnight backpacking trip to Michaux State Forest. I also need to look ahead, and start making some decisions as to what races/events I want to participate in in 2010. I'm signed up for the Got the Nerve Triathlon, so that's one. I have also been entertaining the notion of a 70.3 event.
Since I'm not planning on anymore races this year. Here is my recap of 2009.
Tri to Help Indoor Triathlon (February): 5th overall
Frozen Foot 5k (March): Ran with Kyler, 35:00
Hempfield Tri for Life (April): 23rd overall, 5th in AG (40-49)
Ride for Literacy (May): Metric Century event
Pinchot Triathlon (May): 2oth overall, 2nd in AG (45-49)
Got the Nerve Triathlon (May): 51st overall, 6th in AG (45-49)
Pasta Run 5K (June): 13th overall, 1st in AG (45-49)
Harrisburg Triathlon (June): 21st overall, 2nd in AG (45-49)
Jimmy's Grill 5K (July): 18th overall, 2nd in AG (45-49)
Seashore Striders 5K (July): 11th overall, 1st in AG (45-49)
Lebanon Fair 5K (July): 13th overall, 3rd in AG (40-49)
Livestrong Philly (August): Full Century
Speedwell Triathlon (September): First Oly. Dist. event; 59th, 8th in AG
Jingle Bell Run 5K (December): Ran with Kyler, 30:00
Merry Christmas everyone, and Happy New Year!!!!
But, on a positive note, I was able to get back on XC skis again after at least a two year break. I had been downhill skiing, but the lack of snowfall and lack of travel time to get up to Crystal Lake, precluded me from hitting the trails.
The best skiing of the weekend came on Sunday evening. My buddy Scot H. and I got out along the river on the new trail. It was crisp, the snow was good (note to self, get glide wax) and it was great to be skiing along the river. I can't wait for the trail to be completed, which will add more miles for recreation.
I can't believe it is almost Christmas. I'm looking forward to the break and spending time with the family. I also hope to do some riding, more xc skiing, and going on an overnight backpacking trip to Michaux State Forest. I also need to look ahead, and start making some decisions as to what races/events I want to participate in in 2010. I'm signed up for the Got the Nerve Triathlon, so that's one. I have also been entertaining the notion of a 70.3 event.
Since I'm not planning on anymore races this year. Here is my recap of 2009.
Tri to Help Indoor Triathlon (February): 5th overall
Frozen Foot 5k (March): Ran with Kyler, 35:00
Hempfield Tri for Life (April): 23rd overall, 5th in AG (40-49)
Ride for Literacy (May): Metric Century event
Pinchot Triathlon (May): 2oth overall, 2nd in AG (45-49)
Got the Nerve Triathlon (May): 51st overall, 6th in AG (45-49)
Pasta Run 5K (June): 13th overall, 1st in AG (45-49)
Harrisburg Triathlon (June): 21st overall, 2nd in AG (45-49)
Jimmy's Grill 5K (July): 18th overall, 2nd in AG (45-49)
Seashore Striders 5K (July): 11th overall, 1st in AG (45-49)
Lebanon Fair 5K (July): 13th overall, 3rd in AG (40-49)
Livestrong Philly (August): Full Century
Speedwell Triathlon (September): First Oly. Dist. event; 59th, 8th in AG
Jingle Bell Run 5K (December): Ran with Kyler, 30:00
Merry Christmas everyone, and Happy New Year!!!!
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Jingle Bells
Last time I updated, I was thinking of turkey, and here it is almost Christmas.
Kyler and I ran the Jingle Bell Run this past Saturday, and I was proud of him. I'm a bit of a fool when it comes to racing as I live by the motto that I first heard uttered by my buddy Rob D., that "DFL is better than DNF is better than DNS. " As a former Marine, DNS is not an option, and only death or severe wounds would keep me from finishing.
So, it was in that spirit that Kyler and I headed to Lancaster for the Jingle Bell Run despite rain and temps in the mid thirties.
We picked up our packets, and had about 25 minutes until start time, but elected to stay indoors rather than warm-up. It was so cold and miserable that we also decided to run with all our gear on rather than strip down. I may be a fool, but I'm not stupid, and I didn't feel like freezing.
We lined up in the pack, and we were about 30 yards from the start when the command was given. We had to pick our way carefully through the first half-mile, and never got into our 9:30 pace that we hoped for until around a mile into the run. Kyler was warm, and dry, but overdressed, and even though it was cold, he began to overheat. He also had to contend with running while carrying about 5-8 extra pounds of clothes, some of which was getting wet.
There was a brief moment in the run when Kyler's enthusiasm began to wane, but at this time another boy about his age passed us. It was enough to light a fire, and he picked up the pace, and was able to retake the lead. With a 1/4 mile to go, I opened up my stride, and forced Kyler to open up his. With about 100 meters to go, we raced to the line. I must say, my boy is developing a kick. And this is comes solely from playing soccer. Other than that, he has not trained for any distance running.
Final results: 30:40; 464/923 (overall); 27/39 (age group, 14 and under)
Kyler and I ran the Jingle Bell Run this past Saturday, and I was proud of him. I'm a bit of a fool when it comes to racing as I live by the motto that I first heard uttered by my buddy Rob D., that "DFL is better than DNF is better than DNS. " As a former Marine, DNS is not an option, and only death or severe wounds would keep me from finishing.
So, it was in that spirit that Kyler and I headed to Lancaster for the Jingle Bell Run despite rain and temps in the mid thirties.
We picked up our packets, and had about 25 minutes until start time, but elected to stay indoors rather than warm-up. It was so cold and miserable that we also decided to run with all our gear on rather than strip down. I may be a fool, but I'm not stupid, and I didn't feel like freezing.
We lined up in the pack, and we were about 30 yards from the start when the command was given. We had to pick our way carefully through the first half-mile, and never got into our 9:30 pace that we hoped for until around a mile into the run. Kyler was warm, and dry, but overdressed, and even though it was cold, he began to overheat. He also had to contend with running while carrying about 5-8 extra pounds of clothes, some of which was getting wet.
There was a brief moment in the run when Kyler's enthusiasm began to wane, but at this time another boy about his age passed us. It was enough to light a fire, and he picked up the pace, and was able to retake the lead. With a 1/4 mile to go, I opened up my stride, and forced Kyler to open up his. With about 100 meters to go, we raced to the line. I must say, my boy is developing a kick. And this is comes solely from playing soccer. Other than that, he has not trained for any distance running.
Final results: 30:40; 464/923 (overall); 27/39 (age group, 14 and under)
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