My guide in Manitoba was a Cree Indian by the name of Ernest. He added a great deal to my enjoyment of the trip as he was completely in tune with his suroundings and was able to point-out many interesting sights to me. Ernest showed me eagles' nests, loons' nests, bear scratching posts and wolf tracks. On a couple of occasions, we came into sheltered bays to be confronted by a large bull moose. He also put me on pike with unerring skill. With his help, I caught plenty of what the Americans and Canadians describe as 'trophy' pike (over 42") The clear water meant that I was often able to sight-fish which is always a pleasure.
I didn't take enough flies! Racoon zonkers may look large and impressive when first removed from the vice. When they've been hit 30 times by aggressive pike, they look somewhat dishevelled.
