One thing that can make or break the good times of a trip is group dynamics. The people that you are about to spend approximately 16-18 hours per day around for many days in a row, while engaging in the types of behavior that can bring out peoples difficult side (fishing, weather, alcohol, inadequate bathroom facilities, etc), had better be able to get along.
And I can say without hesitation that these are some kick-ass guys.
The Beaver Bash 2014 crew photographically, in no particular order:
Cameron Mortenson
Austin Adduci
Matt Smythe
Dan Frasier
Steve Martinez
John Arnold (the semi-incognito)
Kevin Morlock
And, your Photographic Narrator
Cameron Mortenson Photo
That is what a good times havin’, drink swiggin’, fish stickin’, bunch of guys looks like, if anybody asks.
For today’s island tip
I would say that within a closed environment where peoples actions will ripple and echo throughout such as a small island community it is important to be with people you get along with (whether they like the movie Spaceballs or not). It makes everything a whole lot more pleasant. If you do find yourself in the company of questionable personalities, just sit a few seats away at the bar, keeping your guilt-by-association to a minimum. (I did notice at one point that I was the last remaining person belly-up at the Stoney one night…)
Pete McDonald once said that the only two rules of fly fishing should be 1) don’t be an asshole, and 2) make the cast. Some time later Pete truncated the thought to solely “Don’t be an asshole.” Which is perfect. (Making the cast, however, never hurts)
-Alex who appreciates the company of good people.
On this day we thank:
Angela Lefevre, and Island Airways for giving us amazing service and just being some damn nice people.
&
Steve West, and the Beaver Island Chamber of Commerce for their great hospitality, and Steve in particular for the fine drinking company.
Love thy selfie.
Round mirror baller status.
Come on, who isn’t a fan of Barfolomew!? (marvelous photos as well)
That’s what I’m saying! Still, we moved past it.
You nailed it Alex. Couldn’t have asked for a better group of guys. What a fun trip. (and a spectacular place!)
The best.
Dude, already looking forward to the stories of the next five! Love the photos, and of course Pete’s quote. I like the truncated version because I’m terrible at part two of the original…
Thanks, A.J.!
Also, very nice site, sir.
Much appreciated, but most the credit goes to Drew for all his work and creativity. I just dump some words and photos occasionally, and not nearly enough! Keep up the good stuff, man, I’m glad Cam directed me to your site!
The blue Pata jacket is a dead giveaway on Arnold. And the artfully stickered computer.
And the selfie should go out for “best of the year.”
Awesome work, Alex!
Thanks, Jess! Haha, I know he rocked that thing all week.
Check back tomorrow… good stuff coming.
Wonderful blog! Do you have any tips for aspiring writers?
I’m planning to start my own site soon but I’m a little lost on everything.
Would you suggest starting with a free platform like WordPress or go for
a paid option? There are so many choices out there that I’m completely
confused .. Any ideas? Thanks a lot!
Thank you!
Start free. WordPress, blogger, etc. Get rolling and see how you it goes before worrying about a paid option.