Feature Story

In the afternoon, I went back on the lake with a different guide and partner. This guide recommended a 1/8-ounce marabou jig designed especially for Lake Taneycomo trout fishing by Phil Lilley, owner of Lilley's Landing and long-time trout angler. The jig head has one side larger than the other so the jig spirals through the water to the bottom which is attractive to trout. Once again, I had a critical assignment which was to jerk the jig up slightly when it hit the bottom to entice the trout. Leave the jig bouncing on the bottom too long and it gets stuck on a rock. I lost several jigs before I learned how important it was to remain attentive.

Dinner in the evening was sponsored by Bass Pro Shops at the Fish House Restaurant on Branson's landing. Bob Ziehmer, Director of Conservation for Bass Pro Shops and former Missouri Department of Conservation Director, spoke on the importance of outdoor writers to conservation in Missouri by informing readers on places to enjoy the outdoors and current issues impacting natural resources in the state.

The next morning my partner was Nick Darling, Education and Youth Coordinator for CFM. The weather deteriorated significantly from the previous day. We started fishing in a light mist which gradually grew more intense, but the rain activated the trout and the fishing was excellent. The rain continued to get worse and both the guide and I put on raincoats, bibs and rubber boots. Unfortunately, Nick only had a light rain jacket and was soon cold, wet and miserable but he was still catching fish. Then the sky opened up with a terrible deluge. The rain was so intense I couldn’t see the bobber or fishing line in the water. The guide headed back for Lilley’s Landing.

The second afternoon I was paired with Scott Pauley, a professional tournament angler and contributor to this magazine and other outdoor publications. He decided to use his own equipment and lures while I used the spin casting rod with scud and slip bobber recommended by the guide. After Scott watched me catch 10 trout to his none, he reached for the pole with the scud. I couldn't help offering advice and helpful hints on using this rig based on my extensive day and a half of trout fishing experience.

During the next hour, we both caught trout simultaneously three times. I concentrated on catching the largest rainbow trout for the 2-day event and my longest was 17 ¾ inches, just under the largest fish. Scott dedicated himself to catching the smallest fish which is a harder task. Trout are released in the 10-to-12-inch range so a small fish in the 7-to-8-inch range needed to win the smallest fish category is the result of natural reproduction in the lake and is much rarer.

The evening meal at the Black Oak Grill was sponsored by the Branson Convention Bureau and the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation. We learned that the Heritage Foundation had reached its initial fundraising goal to establish, at the University of Missouri, a new Institute of Fisheries, Wetlands and Aquatic Systems in cooperation with the Department of Conservation. The Institute will train new natural resources professionals.

The next morning, I headed home. It was a 3-hour drive, and I had plenty of time to think. Recreational thinking is one of my favorite pastimes. Mrs. Urich sent me another text message telling me how pleased she was with the Valentine's Day poem and gift, which reminded me of the necklace incident, one of my greatest marital triumphs. Mrs. Urich and I had finished a hiking trip to south-central Colorado years ago and were in Denver to see some of the sights before flying home. I suggested a walk along the antique row south of the downtown area. There were almost two dozen antique stores in close proximity.

Mrs. Urich has a deep interest in antiques and at one time had an antique store in Rocheport, MO. She was looking at an antique necklace and is pretty good at evaluating old jewelry which takes experience, knowledge and a special eye. She asked me for my opinion but I was silent because I was scheming. An opportunity was unfolding in front of me that would take some finesse to accomplish. She finally put the necklace back as I hoped and we walked to the next antique store. While she was occupied there, I slipped back to the previous store and told the sales staff we had 60 seconds to complete the purchase of that necklace. I kept the necklace for years waiting for the perfect time to maximize its benefit to me.

Occasionally, she would lament not buying it and I would make appropriate comments to reinforce her disappointment. I even suggested she call the antique store to see if the necklace could be mailed. She did which increased her disappointment. I bolstered her sadness with applicable remarks while smiling internally and wallowing in my cleverness. One of the keys to a successful, rewarding, long-term union like ours is a husband who is alert to opportunities.

Over three years later, we were on a trip to Portugal. At dinner I read her a romantic poem with hints about a present I had brought along. She was flabbergasted and astounded. Periodically, I shamelessly reminded her of the necklace gift when she questioned my absences for fishing and hunting trips, especially over special days. Even now I occasionally bring up the necklace when her brow furrows, she casts a disappointed gaze on me, and I need a little extra tolerance and understanding.

I maybe a slimy rat at times but I transition seamlessly and quickly into a romantic and thoughtful rat when circumstances demand it. I've encouraged our three sons to learn from me and emulate my ways but their response is always shrugs of indifference. Perhaps they have chosen a different marital path with fewer potholes than I did, and they don't need my advice.

David Urich