Record paddling time for this section on the Betsie River! Statement of the day, "I'd rather walk through horse manure than mud." 1 climb over, 1 portage, 3 sawing episodes, no unplanned swim breaks. Jackie counted turtles and spoke with Eddy several times with her Pungo. Lois dispatched a deer fly which she allowed to lay in state for the proper amount of time before ceremonial burial into the watery depths of the river. John H & Kati watched a doe with a very young fawn swim across their bows and exit up the bank after a little struggle to the top by the fawn. The biggest accomplishment of the day belongs to John W & Angie W who finally made it all the way down the river after almost 40 years! As usual, Fred cleaned his way down the river. There was an unusual amount of trash for a section of the river not used by outfitters. A challenge was issued to retrieve a plastic lawn chair. Of course, Fred picked up the gauntlet and was successful. The chair rode high in the back of his canoe like a throne for his sweetheart who was missing from today's paddle but always in his thoughts. Danny was a big help bringing boats & gear up the steep steps at the takeout. It was good to have him returned from the mountains & back on the water again. Jackie would like to thank everyone for their help, instructions, & friendship. It has been such a pleasure getting to know you all, discovering rivers & learning to navigate them safely, but most of all meeting a GREAT group of people & having fun!
Written by Jackie & Tracie while traveling down Fred's Landing Road.
Disclaimer: No one was stabbed with the pen during the note taking but it did require a few aspirin after deciphering said notes
This is Fred at the end of the trip. A satisfied grin on his face and a boat load of trash.
Here are a few photos Fred took.