A Child's First Catch, A Dog's New Trick

A month ago my four year old son saw three men fishing and decided he wanted to learn.  On the surface I encouraged him to save up for a fishing pole; but I actually was hoping his interest would wane.  I didn't want to let him down; and I figured I would, because I didn't know a thing about fishing. 

I should have known better.  My son saved the money, and a week ago I found myself fishing for only the second time in my life. 

Round One - Spring Lake

We were learning quickly:

Check out the first day cast:

While the first day successfully inspired us to continue fishing, we didn't catch anything.  Thankfully my love for my son and my desire to help him catch his first fish were stronger than my personal embarrassment about being 45 years old and not knowing a thing about fishing.

After talking to a couple parents and doing some online research, I decided the big moment would happen at Hagemann Ranch.   Anyone who has taken Highway 12 to Bodega likely has noticed Hagemann's entrance; and, like a lot of parents, I had driven past it dozens of times, always noticing its sign, and usually thinking to myself, "I should check that place out some day." 

I'm glad I finally did. 

Round Two - Hagemann Ranch

We struggled at first.  When I wasn't using the wrong kind of hook, or losing the worm, we just weren't getting any bites. 

Then one of the nice folks at Hagemann came over, gave us a quick fishing lesson, and the fun began: 

Mateo's first catch was a nice 9" trout.  Then it was my turn: 

Now that we were in our fishing groove, it didn't take long to catch number three: 

An adventure pursued, a memory nurtured, and a lesson learned.  This dog has some new tricks left in him.