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Bull Gators and the Bull Hole |
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 Lesa Peacock
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Sunshine and longer days...that can mean only one thing, it's time to load the boat and head for water! Hold on; before you pull out make sure you check your rig!
I have to give my husband credit, at the first sign of warmer weather he goes over the boat and trailer. No possible problem escapes his critical eye. Our fishing buddies, Debbie and Dwight, could have used his expertise last spring!
It was a beautiful day, sunny and hot. Dwight had no problem talking Debbie into a quick trip. They decided to load up the boat and put in at the Bull Hole on the Ogeechee near Herndon. This is one of our favorite landings when the 'Hoopee is low. It is also the home of the biggest bull 'gator I have ever seen. The Ogeechee is notorious for its large population of alligators. The granddaddy of them all lives at Herndon. The Bull Hole is also a favorite haunt for a bunch of folks. Frequently there are people swimming here and it's a popular spot to camp. Locals claim the gator won't come around when there's a crowd. Yeah, sure, he's going to turn down a buffet? Anyone who fishes the Bull Hole has probably seen him; I have, and I'll never get in that water. Dwight, on this day found he really had no choice!
While Dwight hooked up the boat and did quick equipment check, Debbie gathered up the gear. A grocery sack held snacks and the cooler was stocked with "cold drinks". They were soon loaded and on the road. A fast stop for crickets and gas and they were set. Unlike my partner, Dwight does most of the work. Debbie's job is to hold the rope and guide the boat off the trailer. This is probably the reason that she can wear white shorts on a fishing trip and stay squeaky clean, while I (in cut-offs and a tank top) look like a cast member from "Deliverance".
 They soon reached the landing and were pleased to see that they had that stretch to themselves. Backing down the ramp, Dwight paused to unlatch the boat and allow Debbie to transfer the tote bag and groceries. As she walked beside the trailer, tow rope in hand, Dwight backed on down. Watching the side mirror he maneuvered the trailer with ease. Looking in the rear view mirror, Dwight saw Debbie waving. He pulled off, assuming she was indicating that the boat was clear. Then he realized she was yelling something and she was waving her arms and pointing a bit downriver! Climbing out of the truck, he started around the back and his heart dropped. He realized his pre check missed something. Debbie stood there with a piece of rope in her hand. The rest was attached to the boat which was floating gently downriver! After rather foolishly asking, "Why didn't you jump in and grab it?!!!" Dwight started shucking clothes. All the while he watched the boat float ever further away. Debbie, who's no fool, wasn't about to get in that river...remember the huge bull-gator? Dwight forgot.
Taking a running dive, he struck out for the boat. Two things were in his favor... adrenaline and desperation. No way was he losing his boat! The boat was a good 50 yards away and in the middle of the current. He was gaining on it, swimming hard when suddenly he remembered! There he was, out in the middle of one of the most popular hangouts for large carnivorous creatures. Realizing the potential for death was very real, he did what anyone else would have done. He swam faster!
He took stock and with relief saw that the boat was only a few feet away. Feeling much better and mentally congratulating himself, he was already preparing his newest fishin' story for his buddy. It was at this point that he felt something brush against his legs. Debbie says he walked on water the last four feet. Dwight maintains he was much closer than four feet and that he certainly DID NOT scream! I don't doubt it...terror can cause vocal paralysis. Bless old "Dudley's" heart, he saved the boat, avoided what may have been a very ugly end and saved the day! Not to be bested by adversity, my buddies went on to have a great day on the water. All in all I have to say..."You are one fine fishin’ buddy, Dudley!"
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Lesa |
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