Good people

[shiltsy]

My parents were in town from WI visiting for Christmas. Tuesday morning my Dad and I set out for some ice fishing on an area lake. We got to the lake around 7 am and said hi to a guy who was just coming off from his sleeper. We were walking and pulling a portable and he offered to give us a lift on his ATV. At first we said we'd be fine walking, but after a little talk about the slush we decided a ride would be great.

We talked a bit about the lake and told him it was our first time on this lake and we had planned a couple spots, but weren't sure what we'd find. Long story short, he then offered to put us up in his sleeper for the morning. Said the heat was on and we were welcome to stay out there as long as we wanted.... oh yeah, also said he had a great night and we would definitely be "on the fish". We proceeded to catch and release about 40 gills before noon.

This whole experience reminded me of a few things:

1. I love MN and the people that live here.

2. The sportsmen and anglers I've met over the years are great people that care about the people around them.

3. Being fairly new to ice fishing, it's been a tough learning curve with many people very tight lipped. There are still people willing to share experiences and help someone they don't even know.

I got his number and called/left a voicemail asking for his address. I planned to send something to his family to show our gratitude, but haven't heard back from him yet.

Hope everyone's season is off to a great start. One week till LOTW for me!

[john.wells]

That is really a heartwarming story! I can honestly say I would do the same for the right kind of folks, and have. 15 years ago or so, on my 1st Mille Lacs ice fishing trip, a guy let me use his shack in almost the same scenario. All I asked was how the fish were biting in the area he was in, and voila! All I know is that what comes around, goes around, and I always put forth a helping hand and common courtesy at all times, even to mean people. I have had SO many instances where I was the one in need, and there has always been someone like myself to come around. Folks have offered me money when I am the one who is doing the helping, and EVERY time I just tell them to keep the money, just lend a hand when it is their turn

[Redlantern]

Nice to hear a story like this. So often people only complain about others and forget that most people are pretty decent.