The Fishing Chronicles

Casey James, a fishing obsessed 14-year-old, loved any time he got to spend aboard the Orca II, his dad’s charter fishing boat. The beautiful coastal waters just south of San Francisco provided great fishing and adventure on every trip, especially when venturing to the Farallon Islands. Each fall, the waters surrounding the Farallon Islands become populated with one of the most powerful and largest of animals, the great white shark. These sharks are extremely aggressive and hold the interest of many, especially Casey.

Bobby thought a trip down the Cass River with his three best friends sounded like a great idea. They had a four-day fall break and were looking for an exciting adventure during the Halloween weekend. Just weeks earlier, their science teacher, Mr. Hill, had shown them pictures of a giant northern pike. These huge fish came up out of their deep hiding spots in the fall to feast before the long, cold winter. His pictures showed a fish with razor sharp teeth and a head that looked like a tank. The pike captured the boys’ hearts, and they wanted to experience catching a “River King” too.

Fourteen-year-old Josey and her ten-year-old, video-game-obsessed brother, Mason, live in Baudette, Minnesota, the Walleye Capital of the World. Their family owns and operates Baxter’s Bait Shop, a town landmark. Every year before Christmas, Baudette hosts an ice-fishing tournament called the Ice Queen that draws thousands of anglers and generates a lot of money for local businesses. First place prize for catching the largest fish is $10,000, but it’s the $20,000 grand prize that consumes everyone. To win the title of Ice Queen, the walleye must beat the Minnesota record of 18.6 pounds.

Rock and Eddie, best friends and teammates, were poised to make history as the first ever bass fishing state champions at Polk High School. Last year they finished in the top ten, but this year their eyes were on first place. During the summer, the pair spent many hours on Rock’s boat, perfecting their fishing skills. The many lakes throughout Texas kept Rock occupied and happy. When he was on the water, he was at home.

Growing up in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, was all fourteen-year-old Presley Walton knew. In fact, the teen had never ventured far beyond the city limits. Her world revolved around chilling in her bedroom, using her cell phone, and being on social media. Presley was getting ready to enjoy a typical summer, but her parents had other plans. Before she knew it, Presley was on a smelly, old bus heading to the middle of nowhere. Nowhere, otherwise known as Camp Golden Arrow, would be her home sweet home for two weeks.