November is nearly here, bringing cooler temps and the promise of new fishing adventures. A trip I think back on often is one that my husband, Josh, and I took to Lake Bull Shoals in Arkansas in November 2022, back when we were still dating. It’s a memory that shaped our relationship and showed us how fun and creative our future together could be.
We packed up my 2014 Chevy Tahoe, tossed a blow-up mattress in the back, and headed out for a weekend of camping and fishing. Arriving at the campground around 6:00 p.m., we set up our makeshift bed in the Tahoe and then wandered around town, exploring the local gift shops and soaking in the sights.
We ended the evening with a classic twist—watching an old DVD in the Tahoe, using the built-in CD player to connect to the surround sound speakers. It was a simple yet creative way to enhance our camping experience, making it feel like we had our own cozy theater under the stars.
The next morning, we woke up to a breathtaking scene. Snow had blanketed the campsite, with glowing red, orange, and yellow leaves peeking out beneath the powder. We knew it would be cold, but waking up to snow was an unexpected surprise. Despite the chilly weather, we were excited to hit the water. After prepping our tackle at the ramp, we launched the boat into the stunning, snow-dusted landscape.
The conditions were brisk, with temperatures low and winds hitting 10 mph, but that cold snap had the fish hungry and active. We started the day throwing a Magdraft around points, working it parallel to the bank to cover as much water as possible. As the day warmed up, we switched to a shakey head, targeting the more lethargic smallmouth lingering near the bottom. It was an amazing way to adapt to the conditions, landing both active and sluggish fish throughout the day.
We wrapped up our adventure with dinner at the 178 Club Restaurant, treating ourselves to their incredible Parmesan-crusted walleye. The buttery crunch of that dish is something we still talk about today!
That trip was more than just a fishing getaway; it was a turning point for us. It reminded us of the importance of thinking outside the box and planning adventures that bring you closer together. Now that we’re married, we still make time for these kinds of trips, sharing the thrill of exploring new waters and creating unforgettable memories. As November rolls around again, I’m looking forward to what new adventures lie ahead—and maybe even more snowy mornings on the lake.
