Fish Fry

This past weekend Char and I attended a fish fry. It was the finest fish fry I have ever been to but a bit unusual. It was a two-day event and fish were optional.

Since we had to provide the fish we started early in the morning. This time of year, mornings at Harlan County Reservoir are foggy and cool.

Most people would not have gone out under such conditions but our Captain was fearless. He knew his boat and he knew these waters.

The first task was to catch some bait. This was almost a religious experience. I was in charge of ‘casting the net upon on the waters’. We were in search of shad a small fish often used as bait for larger fish.

Then we headed out to open waters. The majority of the crew took shelter from the harsh elements of Mother Nature. Okay, maybe the weather conditions weren't that harsh but it was a little cool.

The first mate, Marilyn, made ready the poles. We all knew the fish fry depended on us. Marilyn was intense. Up until this trip I never realized she was a two handed fishing woman.

Fishing was great but the catching was slow. After awhile the fishing boat was transformed into a party boat complete with shrimp, cocktail sauce, assorted meats and cheeses, fruit, and other goodies. We might not be catching fish but were sure having fun.

Just as we were feeling all hope was lost, the Captain hooked a fish. After a lengthy battle with this creature, also known as a channel catfish, the Captain successfully landed the fish - the only fish. The fish fry was saved!

Back on dry land, we returned to our fishing shanty, also known as a cabin. On the concrete, you’ll notice a propane burner with a Dutch Oven. That pot produced fried potatoes and onions, and fried catfish. Inside the cabin fried okra was prepared while fresh homegrown tomatoes where sliced. Put it altogether and you have a feast.

But, after a couple days, the sun set on the fish fry at Harlan County Reservoir.