Well July 1st made three years now that I took huge leap of faith and have been guiding full time .
I cant believe how fast the time as went by. I can still remember my first trip. I was nervous couldnt sleep all that night. I prayed God just let us catch a few fish please. And low and behold praise God we limited out that day and all rest of the week.
I am still amazed how blessed I am to get to do what I love to do for a living. God as blessed me with more business than I can keep up with at times. And its because of nothing I have done, but because of the grace of God. Sometimes it overwhelms me and hard to put into words.
But Im reminded of Ephesians 3:20 says its best. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us. Glory!!!!
Being a successful guide is probably one of the hardest jobs you will ever do. But I love it and it fills me, and blesses me seeing the big smile on people faces that are having fun. Thats what keeps me going and pushes me day after day.
I have been blessed to meet and fish with some truly amazing people and friends along the way that Ill always remember. And I think God and you guys for letting me be a part of it all.
And now this weeks trips on Lake Palestine!!!!
The moral to this story is if God is calling you to do something just trust him and DO IT!!! No matter how crazy it sounds. Youll never know true happiness. Until your doing what God is called you to do.
First was Galen and his grandson Khristofer. Galen booked a trip for his grandsons 15th birthday. And it didnt take long before these guys were laughing and having a good time together and putting fish in the boat. And dont leave out making awesome memories together.
Next was Irene, Evona and Ben. Irene has fished with me many times and she brought some family members to get in on the action. And it didnt take these girls long to beat up on some big crappie. I dont know what was brighter that day the sunshine, or the smiles on your faces!!!!
Next was Christian and his dad Reggie. Ive known Reggie from the plant I used to work at before guiding. Christian booked them another trip this year. This year they got the fish behind Livescope and I think they where amazed to say the least. Nothing like a little competitive fishing with your dad.
Next was Lee and his grandson Justin. Justin was down for a week for the summer and Lee wanted to get him on some crappie fishing. I absolutely had a blast with this little guy. And he done amazing job for being 7 years old. Again we fished with live scope. I put him next to me and help him get the bait in the right place. He held the rod and the reel and I held the middle of the rod. When he got a bite I told him to jerk and I helped him jerk. Then I let go of rod and let him fight and reel in the fish by himself. Then I would net it for him. Justins probably youngest I have had on Livescope.
This next guy is no stranger to crappie fishing. Ronnie and his buddy had to come out and get there tump on. And thats what they did from the first drop to the last drop. And they had some hammers in between all that. You havent seen a Hookset until you have see Ronnies.
Next was Ray and his son Chris. Rays wife set up a trip for them for a Fathers Day gift. They were excited and ready to get on the water. Didnt take long before the trolling motor hit the water and it was fish on!!! I dont think it ever gets old seeing a father and son fish together and make memories. Im glad I got to be a part of it.
We are still fishing submerged merged timber. In 17 to 27 foot of water. Fish are 10 to 18 foot down suspended.
Fish have been a little more stubborn and finicky this week. We have to do some moving to get numbers. Some days they just bite better than others. We have been averaging 40 to 50 crappie a trip. And them are normal numbers for summertime pattern. Again were catching nice Quality fish lots a pound and a half fish.
Were still serving them BoneHead Tackle Stump Bugs in Night Stick and White Lighting.
I want to thank everyone again for fishing with me this week.
Mark Standridge
3N | Three Nails Guide
threenailsguide.com
903-275-4712