Lessons Learned

Hopefully your Memorial Day was a worthwhile and you had time to remember what the intent of this holiday is.

I spent some time testing a piece of equipment for work - a forward, down, and side sonar - something to be used for missing person searches on rivers, ponds, and lakes. (Hopefully I never have to put this device to actual use.) No, I did not go fishing…never wet a line!

My test location was Big Woods Lake near Cedar Falls. I knew there is underwater structure in places on Big Woods, so what better way to learn the equipment. After making adjustments and even watching an instructional YouTube video while on the water, I believe the sonar is ready to go. Oh, I should mention that I used my fishing boat on the water since the sonar is quite heavy.

While on the water I quickly recognized that other than one boat with a couple in it and another older boat, we three were the only boats on the water. Many kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes were on the water - far outnumbering those of us in boats. With so many on the water, one chokepoint (under the bridge) became evident. The fishing boat was sideways under the bridge and there was a family fishing from shore leaving a very small area for those of us wanting to pass under the bridge. Eventually we made it through, including a couple families of Canada geese.

The time on the water was worthwhile, even though it was not quite as relaxing as just paddling might have been.

So what lessons were learned?

• I learned how to read the display on the sonar. I needed to get that done.

• I watched as many people with varying interests can enjoy the same area - each in their own way.

• Finally, I learned (or was reminded) that I much prefer to paddle over taking a boat out. Yes my boat allows more room and can go further with little effort, but the hassle of a boat and motor and trailer just do not outweigh the “quiet” of paddling my solo canoe.

It was a good day!