By Kent Michie
As a professional guide there is nothing more satisfying than the excitement and smiles of a young angler during the battle with a trophy fish.
I had the pleasure of guiding two young anglers, Elliot Gorman (age 13) and Owen Linback (age 11). These professional anglers were an absolute joy to have in my boat. I call them professionals as they are just as dedicated to the sport as anyone I’ve guided, young or old.
Kent & Elliot Gorman with Elliot’s prize catch
As the Webbers Lodges team are activists in youth fishing and hunting it was with great enthusiasm that we jetted across to lake to some pike and lake trout hot spots. It was an added bonus to have two guests in the boat with a combined weight of less than 150 lbs – you can beat everyone else to the best spots because you can go faster.
The first morning it was immediately apparent just how serious and dedicated these two young anglers were about catching fish.
The boat had hardly stopped and the two boys were already discussing which lures to use and who would be casting off which side of the boat to better cover the water. I must’ve sat there for the first hour with my jaw slightly open and a dazed look in my eyes!
Their movements and actions were smooth and fluent as though it was second nature to them. They talked and laughed and never stopped casting the entire time. What was truly amazing was how well each sensed what his angling partner was doing.
The boys took turns casting so they wouldn’t have two lures and lines crossing the boat at the same time. It may seem simple but I found it incredible that I never had to untangle their lines due to a misunderstanding of whose turn it was to cast.
Along with their professionalism they also showed youthful exuberance… and then some!
Elliot had tackled many fish during his stay and landed some master angler pike. Owen had a day in my boat that I will never forget as he fought with an old lake trout warrior like a champ and landed a master angler trout. He definitely deserves Webber’s Trophy of the Month!
Owen Linbeck’s Trophy of the Month
There were times I had to remind myself that I had been guiding guests twice as long as these young anglers had been alive.
Owen and Elliot seemed like a couple of old fishing buddies who had been in the same boat for many years. It was a important reminder for me to see this kind of dedication for the sport they love. I would guide these two again – any day, any season.
The families of Elliot & Owen should be very proud of them. With their respect for the sport they are truly role models.
I’m sure they will go on to have many great fishing, hunting, and outdoor adventures but I would like to thank them both for adding to my great memories.
I will never forget the Amazing Young Anglers of the fishing season.
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