Back in the Saddle… Sort Of

It’s been a few weeks since I’ve had much to say, mostly because the weather hasn’t given anyone a reason to get excited. Between the wind, rain, and water levels bouncing all over the place, it’s been tough to get into any kind of rhythm outdoors.

But in just the last week or two, things have started to shift—and fast.

First off, the white bass bite is heating up at Carlyle. I haven’t had a chance to chase them myself yet, but the last two times I’ve been on the lake, boats were grouped up offshore, sitting tight in classic white bass fashion. If you’re into that kind of bite, now’s the time to start paying attention.

Crappie aren’t done yet, either. I’m still pulling in females with eggs, which is wild this late in the game. With the weather stabilizing (even if it’s still mostly unpleasant) and water levels finally settling down, I think we’re in for one more solid push to spawn. It won’t last long—probably five days, max—but when it hits, it’ll be a frenzy. The trick is guessing which five.

Catfish? Last time I was at Carlyle, they were just starting to move in. By now, they’re likely up in the rocks or tucked into the shallow structure spawning. If that’s your thing, it’s go-time.

And in the woods, the deer movement has been non-stop. My trail cams are blowing up—midday, mornings, late evenings. Constant activity. I haven’t seen daytime movement like this in early summer in a long time. If you’re running cameras or keeping tabs on your property, now’s a great time to start taking notes.

On a different note, this week I’m down at Camp Ondessonk, volunteering on the rifle range. I’m helping kids ages 10–15 get comfortable around firearms and teaching them how to safely and confidently shoot .22s. Watching them go from uncertain to steady and focused in just a few days is a solid reminder why stuff like this matters. It’s not just shooting—it’s responsibility, respect, and learning a skill the right way.

And before I wrap this up, I’ll just say there may be some big news coming soon. Can’t share details just yet, but something’s in the works that could change the game. Stay tuned.

—Jason
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