Deer Season!

This weekend marks the middle of November and that means its deer season! Hunters are busy opening their cabins and setting up camps in preparation for this annual event. For many, its an opportunity to connect with family and friends. For some, it will be the first time in the blind. A youngster being introduced to the sport by a parent and the anticipation of buck fever. Early mornings, late nights and lots of tall tales being told around campfires or by the warmth of the fireplace.

Unlike last year, the weather here in Grayling has been mild for a November. Hunters will not have snow this year to assist in tracking deer. Temperatures will be in the forties during the day with much cooler temps at night. Local weather forecasters say some showers are in the picture for the weekend.

Whether hunting, fishing or just enjoying the scenery...its a great time to be visiting Grayling! Be safe and enjoy your weekend!

Big Creek & Big Creek

Sometimes a customer will call and refer to a property by the water that its located on. So when they want to know more about the house on Big Creek, I need to ask them which Big Creek. Usually the response is; "there's more than one?" Yes, there is and although somewhat similar, they are located in neighboring counties miles apart. Both provide drainage to the Au Sable River but from different directions. One is located in Crawford county with its southward flowing headwaters originating south of Lewiston and east of Lovells. The three branches of this river come together below Lovells and eventually drain into the North Branch Au Sable River. 

The other Big Creek is located in the Luzerne area west of Mio and south of the Main Branch Au Sable. The northward flowing river is made up of two arteries that drain into the big waters of the Au Sable. Both the Big Creek river systems are delightfully intimate and can provide numerous activities for the outdoor enthusiast. I have listings on each of these pretty rivers that offer intimate settings with privacy and up north charm. Learn more at:

Home Waters Recreational Real Estate

Visual Pollution

Now that our Michigan DNR and Michigan DEQ have come under the same branch of government, maybe they can address their visual pollution as it effects natural resources in our Michigan State Forest campgrounds.

All kidding aside, how many different signs do we need to communicate to campers? Given the close proximity of these signs and the at least four more that were to my side and back...wouldn't one nice big sign with all these messages suffice? With time, these sign posts could outnumber the tree trunks!

Keep it Clean! Keep it Green!

What do you think? Leave a comment!

Greetings from Grayling

Simple Fare

After a long day, I suddenly realized I hadn't eaten since early morning when I had stopped at Goodale's Bakery in downtown Grayling for a pastry and coffee. While there I picked up a loaf of this French Vienna covered with poppy seeds. I'm glad I did because it sure was welcomed fare as I cruised my kitchen in the late evening.

Sometimes a simple meal can be the most satisfying. Earlier in the week I had prepared a paste of blended butter and baked garlic.  It would not go wasted and made a perfect spread on this tasty bread. That, along with a light salad and a cold beer was all that I needed to chase away the hunger demons.

Goodale's Bakery is a must go for baked goods and deli needs. Whether you hang out to enjoy a Bear Claw or get an order to go, you'll delight in what this hometown bakery has to offer. Next time you're in downtown Grayling, make sure you stop by and see what Goodale's Bakery has to offer.

The Brown Residence

The Browns are long time residents of the North Branch and have enjoyed living here for years. They have no desire to move and look forward to raising their family here for generations to come. Although a popular family in the neighborhood, they are somewhat unsociable and tend to keep to themselves. Don’t be surprised if an invite to dinner results in an “eat and run”!

Mark Bear ~ Home Waters Recreational Real Estate (877) 820-1194 Ext. 4

Hex - mania!

Of the approximately seventy five species of mayflies we experience in Michigan, the Hexagenia Limbata is the largest. Or, as we simply called it around here...the Hex. Its arrival coincides with warm temperatures, especially during the evening hours. During normal hatch conditions, residents on lakes and along rivers awake mornings to find their homes, cottages and cabins littered with these large winged mayflies.

This activity can produce tremendous trout fishing.
Some of the largest fish are caught during this period as they line up for the "movable feast".
Anglers position themselves early in the evening in anticipation of experiencing this nocturnal event. Calls and visitors come in daily at the Old Au Sable Fly Shop to inquire about the status of the hatch. "Has it started? Seen any Hex? Whats the best fly pattern?"

Yes my friends, its Hex time!
contact the Old Au Sable Fly Shop for latest conditions

Iris Pseudacorus

Or...commonly known as, Yellow Flag Water Iris!

If you spend any time on the upper reaches of the Au Sable North Branch you'll discover that certain stretches can be wide with midstream islands. These islands are often made up of just wild grasses and wild flowers. Occasionally, one will discover vegetation that just bursts with color. Such an example, is the Yellow Flag Water Iris.

Typically, this plant will display it's showy yellow blooms in May & June. The plant, which thrives in shallow water and boggy environments is one of the more robust Iris. The tall, thick leaves contrast well in the spring with tall spikes of bright yellow flowers. This plant grows up to 5 feet tall, with the flowers on stalks up to 6 feet high.

The plant is not native and in some regions it has escaped from cultivation to establish itself as an invasive aquatic plant which can create dense, monotypic stands that compete with other plants in the ecosystem. Yellow iris has been used as a form of water treatment since it has the ability to take up heavy metals through its roots. I've not witnessed an over abundance of this plant on the river and find it to be pleasurable to view along with it's more native companions.

Cruisin on Shupac Lake!

I decided to take my lunch break away today by walking down to Shupac Lake. I needed to get away from the desk and Kid (my canine companion of 13 years) was in need of getting those old arthritic bones a work out. I knew that she'd delight in a short wade in the cool water as well when we arrived at the landing. What a pleasant day for some fresh air down by the water's edge. I feel very fortunate to not only live on the river, but also to be a short hike from one of Crawford County's prettiest lakes.

Known for it's deep clear blue waters, it's home to some fine trout fishing as well as a variety of bass and pan fish. It also is the summer destination of nesting loons whose eerie calls are often heard throughout the season. Much of the west shore is state land with the rest being private, dotted with seasonal homes. Controlled watercraft use is enforced here and speeding is prohibited with only limited wake. Residents putt along in their pontoons and fisherman troll for trout at low speeds.

The lake is ideal for kayaking and so I wasn't surprised when I approached the beach and landing area to see a couple preparing to launch their kayaks for an afternoon of touring. These folks were really into the sport and had outfitted their rigs with all the extras to make it even more fun. Bob & Sharon, who told me they were retired school teachers even had a PFD (personal flotation device) for their little dog "Manny". This was to be his maiden voyage!

As Bob & Sharon were preparing to launch, another 'yaker was coming in from doing some fly rodding along the south bay of the lake. He was paddling on one of the "sit on top" kayaks that has become very popular with anglers. He had his craft tricked out with a rod holder and anchor system along with the some of the many accessories that are available for these crafts.

Theres no question that kayaks have become a popular way to enjoy paddling on the lake or river. They seem to be the popular alternative to canoes and the numerous styles available provide something for everyone.

Some other lakes in the area to kayak and fish are KP Lake and Jones Lake. KP has a public launch. Jones has a state forest ground and special regulations for fishing. Make sure you consult your DNR fishing guide, available with purchase of license.

Looking for a kayak? Need more info on fishing? The boys at the Old Au Sable Fly Shop will be happy to help. They have an excellent line of kayaks for touring and angling.

Be Resourceful, Get Results!

I have some wonderful clients, Bill & Mardi who love to send me some weekly humor. Here's one that reminded me that we live in times where being creative and resourceful is integral to getting the job done!

An old Italian lived alone in New Jersey . He wanted to plant his annual tomato garden, but it was very difficult work, as the ground was hard. His only son, Vincent, who used to help him, was in prison. The old man wrote a letter to his son and described his predicament:


Dear Vincent,
I am feeling pretty sad, because it looks like I won't be able to plant my tomato garden this year. I'm just getting too old to be digging up a garden plot.. I know if you were here my troubles would be over.. I know you would be happy to dig the plot for me, like in the old days.
Love, Papa

A few days later he received a letter from his son:

Dear Pop,
Don't dig up that garden. That's where the bodies are buried.
Love,Vincent

At 4 a.m. the next morning, FBI agents and local police arrived and dug up the entire area without finding any bodies.. They apologized to the old man and left.That same day the old man received another letter from his son:

Dear Pop,
Go ahead and plant the tomatoes now. That's the best I could do under the circumstances.
Love you, Vincent

Visit Bill & Mardi's Property

Oooh Honey, Take Me Fishing!

Looking for a place to call your own "Home Water"? It's all about trout fishing on this...

Wonderful fishing retreat on the flies only water of the AuSable North Branch. This well maintained getaway offers great views and privacy. Major updates have been done to the cabin. Very close to the river with fabulous stone barbecue. You'll enjoy for years to come! Make an appointment to see this one and bring the waders & fly rod!

For Sale: 2BR/1BA Single Family House in Grayling, MI, $179,900

Offered through Homewaters LLC
Listing Agent ~ Mark Bear
877 820-1194 Ext 4

It's Gone!

Yes, the snow is gone and with it's departure come the sights and sounds of Spring! New on the market is this wonderful lodge setting on 21 acres with 401' of frontage on the famous North Branch of the Au Sable River.

Last Month

Yesterday (it's raining today!)

I encountered several deer as I drove into the property. This one was curious enough to stick around and pose for a picture.

The sun is glistening on the water, birds are chirping and a pair of geese start honking as I approach the river.

And somewhere below these wading geese, lurk some of the wildest trout on the North Branch.

This beautiful stretch of river is located on the mid section of the river. So much potential for a variety of lifestyle and recreational interests. Learn more by contacting Bear. Subject, "Long Shaw"