by Jo Thalhammer
This year it was a family affair on the 11 Point. Jack Chopps’s son-in-law Mark came from Wisconsin and Bob Strathman’s niece Lindsay joined eight other OFF members for one great weekend of floating, fishing and BS’ing. Most of us were able to make the trip early on Friday giving us the opportunity to check out the water in the afternoon. Some opted to float while others headed upstream from the Hwy 19 Bridge to wade. The weekend’s weather could not have been better for us humans. We had mild temps, low wind, and plenty of sunshine on both Friday and Saturday. The 11 Point with its crystal clear waters, tall bluffs and beautiful fall foliage was the perfect backdrop for a super weekend of floating and fishing. Everyone had success in tempting the trout, some more than others. I got one to our canoe, and that just made my weekend. I don’t think that I have ever seen a trout with more beautiful markings than the 11 point trout.
Our float day was capped off by a great evening of food and conversation. Mark & I along with Ruth and Gavin hosted a barbeque. We had rib eyes, seasoned by Gavin and grilled to perfection by Bill, potato salad, slaw, baked beans and garlic bread rounded out the menu. We capped off the feast with ice cream. After dinner all retreated to our cottage’s version of a family room to relax and converse about our favorite subject – fly fishing.
Everyone headed for home Sunday morning with some taking the time to hike in and see Greer Spring. Mark and I took the long road trip to see what was left of Turner’s Mill. All I can say is if you have never seen it and want to, I highly suggest doing so from the river. Just turn left at Turner’s Mill get-out and park your canoe. It’s only a short walk from the river. By road it’s a very long and dusty ride.