An unlikely snake

I figured there would be a decent bite on the Sip today. It was overcast, as the awful heat of the last week gave way to clouds and cool, light drizzle.

Normally, I don't catch northerns on this stretch of river, probably because there are not enough backwaters between St. Anthony Falls and Coon Rapids to suit their spawning needs.

I ran into this unlikely snake on the sunken rock island directly out from the River Ranch. He hit a shallow running, grey and white Shad Rap. A skinny fellow, he didn't put up as much fight as the smallmouth that were on the prowl.

There is hardly anyone on the river today. The locks are closed because of the 1 35 bridge collapse and barge traffic has come to a complete halt. The pleasure boaters? They seem to be seeking pleasure elsewhere.