This past few days I had the pleasure of fishing for bass with some very classy hunting dog training folks. I have a share in a houseboat on scenic Lake Powell and the fishing this time of year is just fabulous. We invited hall of fame bird dog expert Dave Walker to join us when we learned of his love of fishing. We stayed on the lake for three days until a wind storm and cold snap sent us packing a day early. It was a true joy to spend time with Dave and get to know him better. He is a true southern gentleman and an amazing teacher and dog trainer. If you ever get the chance to attend one of his seminars or buy his books or dog training DVDs don’t hesitate for one minute. Dave Walker is the real deal.

My good friend and training partner Chris Colt of Cove Mountain Kennels was the mastermind of this bass fishing getaway. He planned the menu and bought all the groceries for the trip and hosted Dave Walker at his home the night before we left. Chris is one of those rare dog trainers that can soak up information from experts like Dave and apply that new knowledge for instant results. Most of Dave’s tips and tricks went right over my head but I could see the light bulbs going on in Chris’s head.

Russ Peterson of Rooster Valley Pheasant Farm was our bass fishing guide and was kind enough to share some of his honey holes with us on Lake Powell. Russ has run a successful pheasant farm in central Utah for nearly 20 years now. A real accomplishment in a world where hunting preserves seem to come and go with the changing winds. Russ also trains and raises some nice german shorthairs. Thanks to all of these great guys for spending time with me. I had a blast. Let’s do it again next year.