Grendel
Posts: 2403
Joined: 10/30/2001
From: Incommunicado
Status: offline
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As many of you may have noted in the past, I have become disenfranchised with Uppyours Outdoor Adventures and Health Spa. Having completed work on my new fall classes, I needed to take some time away to explore some of the wild trout fishing that PA has to offer. However, instead of simply jumping in on some crackhead operation, I did some research and decided upon Big Al.
His resume seemed impressive on paper. Professor Emeritus from Hook Shy University, and being trained by the likes of Stillhead, Spoonchucker, PheasantTail, and CanMan, I felt comfortable in seeking his fishing services. One short phone call and the plans were made.
It was a beautiful day, and I arrived a bit early at the appointed time and place. I am usually early, so this was not a big deal. Big Al was running late however, but he had the class enough to call to tell me of his tardiness. Unlike Uppyours Adventures, this guy put the client first. I must admit, I was a bit concerned when he pulled up blaring Der Trommler on his car speakers. He is a self-proclaimed anti Neil Peart fan. Why the sudden change? Was it mental illness? I quickly dismissed that notion over breakfast.
Big Al detailed the days events, including the places we would be fishing, tactics to be employed, and targeted species. I inquired as to the use of skein, and he quickly reassured me no skein would be used. There was hope! His vehicle smelled fresh and clean!
We began the day fishing Spring Creek in Milesburg. After making sure I had the right amount of shot, tippet, and bait, Big Al pointed out the drift that was necessary to be successful. Not having used a noodle rod in a very long time, it took some getting used to. However, my clumsiness soon disappeared and a fish took my offering. What a rush (no pun intended Big Al)! My first wild brown! Much bigger and healthier than the fingerlings Uppyours Adventures had! Pictures were taken and smiles dominated the day as we picked on trout after trout (mostly browns with a few bows to make it interesting). Big Al tried his hardest to hook into a beautiful GOLDEN RAINBOW (tsk tsk), but it foiled him twice. Apparently, Big Al and this particular fish have a thing going. It broke his fly rod a few weeks back.
We took a little break for dinner (which Big Al payed for - thank you for that my man), and then turned our focus on Fisherman's Paradise. I have been back there many a times for training purposes, but never really had the opportunity to fish it well. The first spot we choose was less than satisfying. Not a bit discouraged, Big Al moved us to what I would call PRIME fishing. Quickly a beautiful brown inhaled my nymph and the fight was on. The biggest fish of the day was landed by Big Al's deft netting skills. Unfortunately for this writer, trees and rocks hampered further attempts. Several fish were missed and it was soon time to call it a day.
In sum, if you have a hankering for some of the best trout fishing central PA has to offer, Big Al is the man to seek out. His professionalism, skill, and earthy personality make him a tough act to beat.
I am officially done with Uppyours Adventures and Health Spa. Perhaps under better management, it could make a come back. However, with the IRS and Health Code issues it has, it will take years for that operation to get back on its feet. Although, I will say this gain, the food there was world class! Rumor has it the boy is seeking to join the Foreign Legion to get away from all the madness surrounding that operation. Not sure he is old enough...
Thank you Big Al for a great day.
Doc
< Message edited by Grendel -- 8/10/2008 12:36:46 AM >
_____________________________
Science like nature
Must also be tamed
With a view towards its preservation
Given the same state of integrity
It will surely serve us well ~ NP
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