Late Start, Big Fish, and a Turkey’s Wild Dash: A Short Story

We got a late start, aiming to leave early but I flubbed, and we didn’t hit the road until 0900. We arrived at the river by 1000, unloaded the kayaks and fishing gear, and started paddling upstream. The day was perfect—80°, clear skies, a beautiful breeze, and water clear as glass. As we kayaked, we cast lines. Then, without warning, I hooked a rainbow trout, a solid 14-incher that hit hard and fast. Peeling drag, the silver glint darting through the water, we fought. Finally, when she was warn out, I was able to net her—an absolute beauty. We pressed on. All of a sudden a wild female turkey shot across the river, wingbeats loud. I’d heard turkeys could fly but never have I seen it up close or even in person. On the far bank, where she just came from, her chicks started peeping, calling her back. She waited, then—bam!—took off again, my path crossing hers, she flew straight at me. Heart pounding, I yelped, “Oh shit!” But my training from the School of American Gladiators and my sensei Turbo kicked in. I thrust my paddle skyward like a pugil stick and froze. Luckily, there was no battle between the Turkey and I. When it was all said and done the only thing hurt was my pride. Though, I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t funny and is now a moment in time, a memory, created and shared that we can laugh at down the road.