Spring Fever

What a glorious day. We weren't out hauling since we ran out of bait and it seems that anything less than 3 nights' set isn't really worth hauling (when they still have bait left). Yesterday was one of those days that I am glad to be working on a boat. It felt like summer fishing. The boys were bitching on the radio about how few shrimp there were on 1 or 2 nights' set. We were hauling traps that had been sitting for 3 nights and had nothing to complain about. Our second best catch actually. The shrimp are still trapping, but they should be headed south soon.

Yesterday morning as we loaded the skiff up with bait, an excited quacking across the Cove stole my attention. I saw a male mallard on the shore quacking loudly and persistently. I commented to Cap that it sounded like someone was laying an egg, but I think it was probably really a male trying to find a date.

We rode out to the mooring after that and as I was donning my oil gear and gazing dreamily (half asleep) out the Cove, I noticed something flopping around in the water between some boats. I watched it for a while an realized that it was a baby seal swimming around! I saw it's smooth black head followed by a rounded shiny back. It dove before I had the chance to point it out to Cap. Mating rituals and babies are everywhere!

Funny story. I was strolling down to the bait cooler today to set up the wood chippah while I waited for Cap. There were 3 trucks pulled up side by side in the parking lot having a Sunday morning toke at the shore. As I left my car I waved to them. In response I got blasted by the chorus of some heavy metal song about a pretty girl dancing (at least that's what I could decipher from the screaming). I got a kick out of this. I guess my blue rubber gloves smeared in pogie guts and my rubber boots did it for them. I think the boys have spring fever. Aaaahh, Maine. . .

I've been feeling a little frisky myself lately, in the midst of a budding romance. I don't suppose it's a shock to you that the subject of my affection is a sailor and a former lobsterman. Any man of mine has to be rugged so he can keep up with me! Those who work on the water year 'round display a hardiness that is unmatched in any other profession, in my opinion. But more than that, the Ocean is clearly very close to my heart and I feel a connection with others who are able to value it's power and beauty. It is especially important for me to share this appreciation of the sea with a significant other. Spring fever seems to have possessed everyone!