Nature's transition

Weather these days conjures up subtle daily changes. Mornings are brisk and refreshing, early softwood tree leaves begin dropping, burning bushes turn from soft pink to radiant reds on full display in the morning sun.

Deer are on the move. Spring and summer born fawns are now almost as big as mom; some sprouting antlers and challenging one another. Spring turkey poults are now adult size and ranging further from mom’s protection. Squirrels and chipmunks busy burying nut mast for winter snacks. Helter-skelter nut saplings will be erupting in the next couple years from forgotten treats.

Gardens stubbornly give up the last of this year’s bounty awaiting tilling and a light dusting of lime and next year’s planting. Scrubs and flowers need trimming and mulching. Trees to be pruned, ground story cut and raked. The last firewood delivery needs stacking. Air conditioners go into hibernation, window seals and integrity inspected.

Almost done, then my thoughts turn to sports, mainly deer and turkey hunting and fishing. Deer camp tent will be raised soon with preparations and cleaning following. This is a great month, dependent on water conditions, to head to streams and rivers for some of the finest trout fishing of the year. Trout are aggressive. Little need for finesse; trout will take almost any offering. My favorite is a #10 barbless White Wulff enabling me to easily follow the fly and watch trout launch themselves from bottoms and lairs to attack their prey. Their flesh is now firm and sweet providing an excellent meal for the evening. Lakes and ponds offer excellent fishing.

No need to rise early, action is best after the sun has warmed surface temps. My favorite strategy is a medium surface jerk bait which often entices spectacular splashy strikes. I always take advantage of this opportune seasonal transition offering me plenty of exercise and fresh air.

Regardless of your preferred outdoor activity, get out and enjoy what Mother Nature has to offer in improving both physical and mental health. God bless you readers and your families. Embrace your family and close friends and lend a helping hand to those in need. Hope to see you at the local Millerton Legion and Firehouse breakfasts. Contact a friend and enjoy a wonderfully filling sit-down meal or grab take-outs. You won’t be sorry. Til next time.

Town of North East resident Larry Conklin is a Vietnam veteran and a member of both the Millerton American Legion Post 178 and the VFW Post 6851 in North Canaan, Connecticut.