Rollie Schmitten has begun his preparations for the sockeye season on Lake Wenatchee. I helped him move his docks, from the top end of the lake, where they spend the winter, to the anchors in front of his house. He and I have been watching the weather and finally saw a window of calm water and went for it. We had to lever a large log from the ramp when we launched his 14-footer from Dickenson’s beach. He picked me up from the shore on his beach and with his dog Roxie along, away we went. As usual the dock was covered with goose and otter poop, and while Rollie retrieved the anchors, I swept the docks. Next Rollie put the bow of the boat in the “L”, pointed it down the lake and began the slow drive to his place. The trick is to get a good line to start with, as steering this “barge” is more than awkward. Rollie was able to hit is mark on the point and snagging the anchor buoys and getting the docks secure went well. There is a little more work to do, but essentially all we need now is fish.