Moon Lake State Park
With a cool calm morning yesterday I figured it would be a good maiden run of the new kayak. I was told that Moon Lake had a good lily pad end, so I was hoping for some warm-water action.
The report was correct and the pads are where I pointed the Pelican towards. Since it was my first time out with a purpose on the kayak I figured this would be a morning with its share of frustration. Managing the paddle, fly rod and anchor, getting in position to cast was full of a few tangles and cursing. But I eventually started to settle into a rhythm of sorts. It's definitely not as comfortable as my Cumberland float tube.
It wasn't too long before fish came to hand. 3 Bass on the day, a few bluegills and one nice crappie. Had a few pickerel rushes that I pulled the fly away on in excitement. And missed quite a few hook sets while fussing with the new line management on the deck of the kayak.
In review of the kayak. it functions perfectly and as hoped for. The tube is far more manageable with a fly rod. And more comfortable. But for covering distance, the kayak wins hands-down.
As an addition, I was lucky enough to come across a Cecropia Giant Silkworm Moth. An uncommon and beautiful specimen as well.
See you on the water
