Ready for the South Dakota Ice

The Deadwood forecast calls for a bit of snow Tuesday, the first fishing day of my upcoming trip. That would be nice for photos, but one day of falling snow would be enough. The outlook actually looks pretty comfortable, with a lowest low of 17, but as Nathaniel and I were reminded last year in Colorado, that can change quickly.

Our first morning of fishing is scheduled for Deerfield Lake, where brook trout, splake and yellow perch are the main attractions. I'm looking forward to introducing the fish to Lindy Whatsit Grubs. Bernie Keefe in Colorado has been making good use of these for lakers this winter, and I have a feeling they might work well for Deerfield's fish. Of course, I'm also bringing stuff that was designed for ice-fishing.

The duffel is packed with lots of warm clothes. Camera, netbook and a bag of cords and chargers are likewise waiting by the door. I'm driving to an airport-area hotel this afternoon and will stay there tonight to avoid beginning tomorrow's travel in the teeth of Atlanta's Monday rush hour. Instead, I'll start with a short shuttle ride. By tomorrow night, I'll be settled at the Branch House in Deadwood, resting up for three days of ice fishing!