These memories are my legacy. It is not just about fishing.
Going after the elusive landlocked Atlantic salmon, we set out from gate 8
While getting ready, Alex asked if he could go fishing with me. I have waited a long time for this question. We were excited, blasting Mötley Crüe on the way to the Wachusett Reservoir.
After parking at gate 8 we start the 1 mile hike to shore. On the way I told Alex the story of the man who lives in the woods here, how the Department of Conservation is trying to capture him, and that he has sympathizers as well as detractors who fancy discussing his situation on social media. His shelters have been discovered, but he has proven elusive. They have yet to wrangle him in. Alex shared some 7 year old insights as to how the woodsman survives.
We diverted down a shortcut that I have not travelled along before. I could sense the boy's apprehension. No one was around if we got lost, except for maybe the bushman. Let the adventure begin. The path was narrow and at one point blocked by the numerous branches of a large downed tree. Alex told me, 'I can do this,' and started navigating the fallen tree, but in the midst of it faltered wanting to go back to the main trail. I was waiting on the other side. Then he said, 'Papa, don't leave me.' The feeling to protect was strong. I went to him. Reaching out I grabbed his little hand helping him to cross the obstacle and assured, 'I will never, ever leave you. I promise.'
The approaching sunset, changing leaves, and waterfront view made for a picturesque scene. After fishing, somewhere between sunset and dusk, the moon came out and darkness appeared between the trees along the trail. We walked back with only flashlights to blaze the way. It was an eerie walk through the shadowy forest. A lasting sense of adventure cannot help but be felt for some time afterwards.
On the drive home we stopped at Cabela's, where Alex picked out his first fishing knife, then went to Dairy Queen for a classic cherry dipped cone.
Cabela's run on the way home
The boy gets his first fishing knife
DQ cherry dipped cone
