Remembering the Bend Trip of 2009

by Bruce Young

As I remember and compare this year’s Bend Trip to those in the past, only the good times come to mind. We have had years where the fishing was tough, and this year was one of them. We have had years where the mercury did not get above 50°, and this year it didn’t happen until Sunday when we were packing up to leave. We have had years where the burn ban prevented campfires and cobblers, but this year we got an 11th hour reprieve after it rained 5” on Thursday. A warm fire and some dutch oven desserts make the cold and dampness forgettable. Conditions were tough, but we had good times too.

There are some real campers in this club. We bring lots of good gear with shelter, lights, stoves, and plenty of good food. Regardless of the conditions, we always eat well! This makes for memorable communal times. Fire side chats, community breakfasts and dinners, and time spent teaching and learning from each other develops lasting friendships. This bonding is what makes the trip to Bend well worth the time and effort.

Fishing this year was tough, but we did manage to pull off a successful fish fry. It was a group effort, fishing up to the final hour, which produced all the white bass fillets. We ate well, and had plenty of food left over. The group this year was smaller than in the past, but for those of us who made the trip, I’m sure we will remember it as one of the better outings of the year. Regardless of the conditions, this outing is always full of good times. Some times the fishing is great, and some times the good fishing is only icing on the cake! Next year at this time, I hope you will be telling me about your memories of the 2010 trip to Bend.