Fisherman
06-06-2005, 07:56 AM
Kevin called Friday after completing the Big Bend, which is the first big challenge of this trip. He spent about three weeks paddling in the open Gulf with campsites few and far between. He was holed up in a hotel in Palm Harbor when he called. All is well and he is in good spirits. He's been fighting a head wind for weeks paddling into a constant 15 knot blow has really made him crazy. "Why can't I turn off this wind!" He screamed to me over the phone. Now he is just north of Tampa and looking forward to some excellent fishing. He hung a tarpon for a few seconds earlier in the week but the fish threw the hook after an explosive jump. He's seen his first snook, but hasn't been able to sneak up on any. His boat and equipment are holding out well but he has discovered that the no-see-ums can get in the seams of his tent. He spends most evenings killing bugs in his tent to pass the time after the sun goes down. He's seen lots of manatee and is looking forward to the Everglades and the Keys, the next big challenge. He's completed over 400 miles with 1400 to go. One stroke at a time.