I was reading Dan Erickson’s post, “the beauty of simple,” and saw that picture above. Just seeing that boat inspired these words.

DOMP-DOMP-DOmp-DOmp-domp-domp, the sound of feet running down the planks to the end of the dock. Domp-flup-domp-flup-flop-flop-flip-flop-flip-flop, a run becomes a casual walk. I have my trusty plastic red tackle box in one hand and my simple fishing rod in the other.

A classic wooden boat is tied catty-corner to the dock making a blop-dop-blop-dop-blop-dop sound as the waves rock it gently, letting it drift on the rope and by tension it is pulled back again to the dock’s anchoring stud. First my left foot then my right foot, I remove my sandals and place them on the edge of the dock for a soft spot to sit on. Whomp, I’ve sat down and to my left sits the box, which I open up and pull out a fake glittery-green-neon rubber worm. Grab my pole with a simple line and brass J-hook, slide that bait on it, attach a round, red and white bobber. With a thrust, the hook lands in the water. A strong, warm sandy summer breeze blows past and the bobber bounces up and down quickly with the waves. Pointing my toes as far as they can stretch, I kick them into the cold water and then try to lift the water up with my feet. The sun warms my face, the sky is cloudy and cool blue and all of the sudden I’m holding on for dear life because a Bigmouth Bass has just snagged my bait. Hook, line and sinker.