Sunday, June 1, 2014

Into the darkness

        If you live in south Louisiana, today is a holiday. Today is opening day of frog season. When the clock strikes midnight hundreds of boats across the lower part of the state will set out in search of these green little pieces of slimy gold. To most people frogs are nothing more than an after thought when they are out on the water. But to some people like myself they are one of the outdoors finest delicacies.
       When I first moved to Louisiana seven years ago I thought like most of you that people are crazy to set out in the middle of the night and waste gas and sleep to catch a couple of frogs. Why would anyone go into the dark swamp full of alligators, water moccasins and wolf spiders the size of frisbees just to catch these slimy critters? The answer is because they are delicious and it is an experience like no other.  The night I tasted fresh fried frog legs I was absolutely hooked. If you have never eaten a frog it is somewhere between a chicken and fish in taste. If fried properly with the right batter and right seasoning it will be one of the best things you have ever tasted.
        Although the taste of these little beauties is a huge part of why I love frogging, the real draw is the process of catching them. Just like anything else, everyone you talk to has "their" way to do it. The true purists refuse to use a 'gig' which is no more that a five or six foot pole with a few barbs or nails at the end of it used to stab the frogs from the safety of the boat. They like to get down and dirty and in the mud and use their hands. The purists look down on the the amateurs that feel the need to use a gig because they do not want to get dirty. If you are going out frogging, go all the way. Get dirty and feel that mud between your fingertips. The coolest part about frogging to me is that it is hunting and gathering all wrapped up in one. Cruising along the banks looking for those little white eyes and a big white chest is like a treasure hunt in the swamp. You are out in the dark swamp with creatures lurking around and sounds that you cannot really describe. The bayous of Louisiana are a creepy place at night but to me that just adds to the fun.
          This is such a great way to pass those agonizing months between hunting seasons. When turkey season ends and I have to consciously tell myself not too think about the coming whitetail and duck seasons. Frogging is a great way to keep your predator instincts sharp waiting to chase Ol' mossback come bow season. Grab some buddies, a bright light and some cold beer and set out on one of the coolest outdoor adventures you can ask for.
 
Good Hunting