Today is more dreary than outdoor-inviting with wind, rain, hail, thunder and lightning ushering in the morning light. As I look toward the old wooden dock sections poking into the lake there’s little room for air under them certainly less than yesterday but I guess a couple inches of rain does that. Snap, the Brit is curled up in the recliner, Acea on one end of the old couch and Tess, the oldest of the two Goldens much more traditional in her choice of napping spots curled up under this table. Each is quick with an open eye at the slightest movement not wanting to be left behind just in case.

Over the years we’ve brought Fan Outdoors along on many experiences with each one coming to you in hopes of either encouraging duplication or to enjoy vicariously. We’ve island-hopped for pheasants in Montana, decoyed Sand Hill Cranes on the Dakota prairie, caught Devils Lake “eyes” on both hard and soft water, chased roosters in Hitchcock, South Dakota home to a gravel main street and Colonel Bubbas ‘n Rocky Mtn Oysters. You’ve shared a 1^st ever canoe experience into the Ely Boundary Waters for topwater smallies. Closer to home we’ve been extremely specific on the “how-tos” for fish including what, where and how. Our goal has always been one of teaching too sharing what through our own trial ‘n error ways has resulted in successes from patterning fall pheasants to blazin’ summer buzz-bait bass. You’ve been included on some of the darker days too that have included the loss of 4-legged partners and some very dear human friends. But the outdoors continues to be magical with untold Fan Outdoors experiences yet to come.

One that’s really just around the corner and already sits on a bucket list for some, including yours truly begins soon! Next week we’ll be packing the truck with not only vacation bags, beverage coolers and planned meals but also radio gear, hitching up the Ranger Boat with lots of tackle and even some live bait too. The Chevy ‘n boat will aim north to Rainy Lake. Destination, Billy Dougherty’s Rainy Lake Houseboats! www.rainylakehouseboats.com I have absolutely no idea what to excitedly expect but we’ve planned at least 3 meals of fish. Sounds like the “counting yer chickens” bit right? Many times in the past I’ve been on the short end of a stick doing that very same thing but all the same it’s part of the plan. The boat’s 50’ long and absolutely loaded with every amenity imaginable including a hot tub! Can you picture watching a lighted bobber under starry skies from a hot tub! Hmmm!! Well, I share this because we’ll be broadcasting both Fan Outdoor shows from the “Goldrush” next week and sharing the whole experience through not only the broadcasts but through photos and blogs right here!

My hope is that if a similar experience sits on a personal bucket list we’ll give you the experience and confidence to make it your own! While dogs are welcomed at Rainy Lake Houseboats mine will be sitting this one out anticipating the fall!

So stay tuned it’s gonna be a blast and I’ve already told Bob he’ll be wearing the “Captain’s Hat” too! Think hull insurance might be appropriate? Any bets on the first fish or the biggest? There might also be a buck or two on that line!!! Tune in because again it’s time to share it all!

Soon, Fan Outdoors from the Rainy Lake Houseboat “Goldrush” and I can’t wait!

Capt’n