Family Paddle and Kiddie fishing at Mendo

I had to skip OP as the WAF was LOW, as I had spent too much time away from the girls and with two trips to baja in June, it was time to stay home.  I asked the girls what they wanted to do and they decided they wanted to go to the "secret lake" at Lake Mendo for bluegill.  I have sampled this pond several times with my e-boat during the day job and it is always LOADED with panfish.

We launched at the north ramp, only to find it super windy...white caps and wind surfers.  We decided to go for it anyways as the secret lake is very protected.  As we headed up the east branch of the river a huge boil went off.  The girls loved it, and got a big kick out of watching the birds get in on the action.

Elsie was riding shotgun in the Gator Hatch and eating her traditional yak snack...crunchy Cheetohs!



As we got up the east branch the wind laid down and the paddling wasn't as hectic for Paige.  She is really getting paddling figured out.  She absolutely loves having her own kayak...an Ocean Kayak at that.  If anyone has a kid that wants to paddle, the OK Kea really is a great little boat for little ones.  Just take the paddle that comes with it, remove the impossible to find mini-drip rings, and then throw the rest of it at a cat...its horrible.  Paige is using Jelly's old Werner Sprite (with the OK drip rings) and the combo is kiddie nirvana!



I turned my gps on at the launch soI could see how far it is to the entrance of secret lake.  Almost 1 mile exactly...heres what the gateway looks like if you ever want to go there.  Did I mention Elsie loves riding up front!



Once inside the lake we baited up a slip bobber rigs.  When this maniac is casting off of the bow wear goggles and a helmet!



Paige on the other hand handled her boat and rod like a pro...she even had some "game face" going.  I can't tell you how much she loves her dinky little yak.



We drifted bobbers in ideal habitat for a little over an hour...not even a nibble.  Shad were spawnig all over the place...I think everything that eats is simply full of shad or shad by-products.  Elsie got bored and began worm wrangling...



Time to wash the yak as worm wrangling is messy...




Ended the day skunked, but everyone had a great time anyhoo.  Paige did great and continues to improve dramatically each time she goes out....watch out Jelly.  I had come prepared to tow her home, but she did two miles with ease...kids are amazing if you give them a chance.  Another great day in paradise!




 

sweet!

Jason

Hey, I know those girls!  I'll be looking for their names in the top 10 at the next derby.  Great pictures and they look way too cute.

From,
Anita Bite - moonlighting as Guitarzan.

Hey Sean!

I took my "little brother" out for panfish today and slayed 'em. We found our 'gills in the little cove at the south end of the dam. Pretty much as far south as you can go. Bobbers and worms equals lots 'o fun .
juan

Thanks man.  I'll take em back ASAP

I wish there were more parents like you!

Too cute!