My wonderful dad Frank McMahon passed on July 4th 2000, ten years ago this morning. He was a real American patriot, a fine gentlemen and the guy that taught me what love is really all about. Anyways the 4th was one of our favorite holidays "as some of you will remember", we always had the biggest fireworks display in the neighborhood. "Independence Day" is by far my favorite holiday with the exception of Easter. I fully expect this evening will find us aboard the Gath IV with a few good friends viewing the fireworks show off Kennebunkport.
The weather in Maine has been the best it's been in over twenty years, and we've taken more old friends fishing than ever before. Now thats saying somethin! Our fine crew is stronger than it's ever been and I'm very, very proud of the fine job their doing pleasing our guests.. This week Captain Whit landed the largest striper we've ever caught. An old friend Steve Schonberg (FL) who has fished with us from day one, fought, landed and released a Maine State trophy that was heavier than Whit's 50 pound scale could weigh. He called it at 52 pounds, but it could just as well have been 58 pounds. Steve was thoughtful and kind enough to release it shortly after it was caught so we will never know for certain. Fish of this size span over 2 million eggs each season.
The kids have been having a blast. In the picture"top of post 16" year old Mickey Badger (NY) shows off his 13 pound pool winning pollock, his largest fish ever. Below Whit's trusty mate Eric Sprague (ME) with the a nice 12.5 pound cod he landed thanks to the generosity of Ron Koshorick(MI). Next to Eric is Vic Brazen's good friend 13 year old Alex (PA) with his 10 plus pound striper caught on a 2 hour family evening trip.
Last night we enjoyed our 2nd of the season Saturday night Sea Shanty sing along with one of New England's finest Guitar pickers "Sir Ernie Pigeon". Ernie entertained at least 20 of my guests and friends from "Ocean View Campsite" with sea stories and songs of a almost forgotten era. I can tell from the caring expressions that his fine work was appreciated and real authentic enjoyment was had by all.
It was a little rough and too adventurous for our evening crew outside in the bay, so we swung around returned to a beautiful sunset anchored in the harbor. The young folks fished for the giant stripers that were splashing all around us. Ernie played and the rest of the crew sang along and had a wonderful time. The no- see ums had us for dinner as we topped off the evening with some of Gloria's grandmas famous haddock chowder. Sure glad"Mackerel Bob left his "Jungle bug spray" behind from the overnight trip.
Ernie's next appearance is on Sunday Evening July 11th @6 15 PM. You should call ahead early for reservations. It's a great family value at just $25 dollors per person. That's how we started the business.... by giving our guests more than their money's worth and as long as I'm the CEO I plan on continuing the practice........ Best to all and see you soon......... Satchie
