'Push hard, comes easy'

My dad is full of old sayings he keeps on hand, waiting to disperse them at opportune times. “Push hard, comes easy,” is one of my all-time favorites. Growing up, he would offer these subtle words of wisdom when we had a difficult chore or heavy lifting that called upon our collective manpower. His words have stuck with me. No matter if I’m honing my lesson or fishing plans, my father’s advice has served me well.

Taking my own kids fishing is a perfect example. They will only see the end result: hopefully a live well or camera full of fish. They will miss the push hard phase. In planning a day on the water the Captain’s to-do list is extensive.

• Grease boat trailer tires

• Air up trailer tires

• Check that trailer lights are working properly

• Charge starting and trolling motor batteries

• Fill the boat with gas

• Pack the boat plug

• Check the bow rope

• Grab the boat key

• Stow anchor and anchor rope

• Fasten transom saver on outboard for travel

• Grab fishing license

• Pack rod holders

• Pack extra spark plugs and pull-cord for engine

• Stow paddle

• Charge camera/phone for fish pictures

• Hook up graph and check connections

• Install lake maps on the graph

• Pack life jackets and throw cushion

• Pack flares, whistle, and fire extinguisher

• Stow trolling rods

• Grab ultra-light rods

• Pack spinning and baitcasting rods

• Tie all rods so they are ready to go

• Spool reels with fresh line if needed

• Take inventory of tackle

• Purchase needed tackle and lures

• Sharpen hooks

• Stow planer boards

• Check and memorize lure dive curves

• Pack landing net

• Pack Jamie’s favorite chair

• Grab pliers, hook sharpener, and other tools

• Load cooler with enough snacks and drinks to keep everyone happy

• Throw in sunscreen, sunglasses

• Scout on social media, internet reports, and make phone calls to local sources

• Scout on Lakefinder (Check stocking and creel surveys)

• Check and understand lake specific regulations

• Map potential fishing spots with GPS software

• Purchase live bait

• Understand and properly store live-bait under invasive species laws

• Gas up truck and ensure it’s ready to roll

• Pack dog stuff

• Sharpen and pack filet knife

• And … prepare for special requests. (Tubing equipment, swimming stuff)

Luckily, Dad also taught me how to make and use a checklist.

For the kids, a day of fishing starts when the boat slides off the trailer at that landing. They never notice the hours of preparation that lead to high-fives, a full live-well and a pile of big fish pictures. The same way I never noticed Dad doing the heavy lifting when I was young.

Bret Baker is a lifetime resident of Cloquet. He is a proud husband, father, educator and outdoorsman. Bret began guiding fishing trips when he was 16 years old. Today, in his 40s, his passion is to introduce people to the tremendous outdoor adventures available in our region.