Gentlemen,

It is with sincere regret that I inform you that I cannot make the trip on Sunday. I got a late invite to go houseboating at Shasta Lake, (bass boat and ski boat available!!). My girlfriend & I couldn't pass it up.

I'm totally bummed that I will not be there to show you guys the river. If you guys still want to hit the Merced River without me, here are my tips:

1. Go light. No trolling motors. The water gets very shallow in places, and there are a few concrete retaining walls that must be hopped over.

2. Only bring two rods. There are numerous overhanging trees in narrow stretches of river where you will have to carry your rods in your hands while you kick to propel yourself. If your rod is sitting upright in the rod holder it could be broken. If you have more than two rods, it could be difficult ot remove all the rods while the current is pushing you along.

3. Move quickly. This is a long float. Use reaction baits (topwater, blades, cheap rip baits) 75% of the time, and only use worms when you need to pitch back into some cover.

Sorry guys. I can do it later on this summer.

Mike F