Norfolk and the ICW

Sept 26   /   Norfolk VA   Saturday

Stephen 

We spent some time today doing laundry and organizing a few things for Stephens arrival today.    The weather was on and off rain so we didn't venture into downtown other than to hit Starbucks and use their internet services and a quick stop at a book store.  The tides here engulf part of the dock / pier at high tide so we have to use a ramp bridge during those times to get to shore.  There are hotels, parking garages and a few shops on the Norfolk side, the opposite side of Craford Bay / Elizabeth River is Portsmouth, Va.  A bit down river is the Norfolk Naval  Shipyard where numerous navel vessels are being readied for duty, refurbished or decommissioned.  There is quite a bit if barge traffic here working on the bridge / tunnel or assisting the many ships in or out of the Bay.  

We caught an Uber to the airport to meet Stephen for his arrival then returned with him and his rental car.  We spent the night catching up, eating dinner and enjoying each others company well past boaters midnight.    

Sept 27   Sunday

Adventure Park at the Aquarium 

Today we decided to head to Virginia Beach, VA to check out the Virginia Aquarium and Science Center.  Nearly every exhibit was designed to be interactive.  Lots of displays to test your knowledge about sea life, earth’s history and aquatic plants and eco systems.  Even before entering the building several seals captured our attention from the outdoor viewing aquarium .  The indoor aquariums did not disappoint either.  The layout design keeps the participant weaving about the exhibits.  Turtles, sharks, and colorful fish.  There is a laboratory to view their coral nursery.  Patrons could ‘pet’ sting rays and horseshoe crabs if desired.  Throughout the multi acre complex student (HS / College) volunteers were available to answer questions pertaining to the exhibits and wildlife.  The main exhibit houses the aquariums.  The middle section is an outdoor experience along a creek with areas to rest or inspect the marsh.  Continuing on, the sea otters and snakes are found at the far end of the woodland walk.  For an additional fee, the center offers an enormous adventure park, a ‘ropes’ course on steroids.  The sessions are sold in 3 hour blocks and the course has varying degrees of difficulty.  Participants wear safety  harnesses with tethers while climbing up and about the obstacle course within the trees. Physical and often mental abilities are challenged.  This course included zip lines as well.  There were several acres of challenges, tight wires and suspended log bridges to cross, netting and walls to scale.  It was quit impressive and there were a lot adventure seekers enjoying the challenges.  

Aircraft Carriers / jet

We continued on to Virginia Beach downtown for lunch then a walk to the Atlantic sea shore.  The wind was fierce cutting through the breaks in the high-rise hotels that line the beach area.  Jim lost his go-to-town hat and had to set off at a run to catch it before it was devoured by traffic.  

Next we set off to find a few boat items before returning home.  West Marine always has something a boater needs.  

Dry dock repairs / shrink wrap around radar equipment

Virginia Beach

Stephen and I wrestled the laundered covers back on the cockpit chairs.  No easy task.  Sitting in the cockpit later we watched the super moon rising in the east, 

clouds threatening to swallow it up, on and off as the moon continued on it’s path.  The luck of the Irish was good tonight, we were able to watch the first half of the eclipse of the moon, then just after the earths shadow stole it from sight, the clouds moved in and refused to give it up.  We called it a night.

Birthday boy ...

Sept 28  /  Jim’s birthday !  Monday

We ran a few errands then drove to Atlantic Yacht Basin, our next stop with the boat.  We chose this stop for several reasons.  It is close to Stephen’s classes this week, it is the start of the Intercostal waterway; our route continuing south, and we can get some more work / prep done before heading off shore next month in search of tiki bars, coconut islands and warm waters.  We dropped the rental car at the the Yacht Yard and returned to the boat via Uber.  We then got underway and backtracked a bit to show Stephen the navy vessels at the Bay entrance.  

movable floating gates in front of Naval ships

The rain spit at us a few times but nothing more than a few drops.  Returning to Norfolk and on to Chesapeake, VA and the yacht yard, we were ‘signaled’ to beware of, move over for, American Elm (ship), which we did.  Had we known we would get to see his slow aft end for the next 5 miles,  nearly 2 hours… we would have goosed the throttle and beat him into the channel.  Jim tried unsuccessfully to raise the ship and tug captain’s to request a pass but they would not return our hails. So, we continued our game of ‘follow / be followed’ until we had an opportunity to pass, which was successful, but immediately thwarted by the ships destination in which he needed us to ‘move along’ but a darn bridge stood in our way.  The bridge tender was quick to get the cars stopped and we averted disaster by American Elm’s impalement.   A great relief to have the  ship and bridge behind us we continued on toward Chesapeake VA.  Another 5 miles, then the lock for the official Inter Coastal Atlantic Waterway was in sight.  We locked through with 2 powerboats.  Next a bascule bridge and immediately after that, home: Atlantic Yacht Basin.  Tied off we had a toast to Jim’s big day then freshened up for dinner on the town.  After a few practice stops for a decent eatery, we decided on Kelly’s Tavern.  A quiet, river setting, excellent waitress, great food and super company.  Bellies full, we still managed to finish off a ‘birthday brownie Sunday’, compliments of the restaurant.  

A long, mostly enjoyable day of sharing our new way off life with Stephen.  

Light House Ship 

Sept 29  Tuesday

Stephen went off to his Volvo IPS (inboard propulsion systems / marine mechanics) certification workshop and we got to work on boat projects.  It has been pretty steady rain for days now.  The entire area getting waterlogged.  There is talk about the tropical storm in the Caribbean…

Railroad bridge lifting for us to pass under

Jim installed the new water pump for the fridge cooling system and I defrosted the freezer.  Per our scheduled appointment, Chuck from Seaport Electronics arrived in the afternoon to look over our SSB radio. SSB, single side ban, is used for long distance communication via ‘ham’ radio.  We plan to use this for weather reports and communication while making off shore passages, no cell towers in the Atlantic.  Chuck was amazingly helpful, thorough and knowledgable.  He and Jim spent nearly 2 hours tracing wires and inspecting the system.  He left Jim with a to do list and said he’d drop of some wires, fittings, etc we would need after dinner tonight.  Chuck is a very busy man and in high demand.  While on board he received several phone calls; he's flying to New York Wednesday for another job and choose to turn down a job for the U.S. Navy while helping us.  They have used his services in the past for radar work.  He’s not a fan of working on the radar of naval ships; convinced that the Navy pilots who transport workers to the ships try to make their passengers, even those that are their to fix the radar, lose any and all of the lunch they enjoyed prior to their departure. He said the return ‘launch’ from the aircraft carrier was pretty amazing, catapulting the the plane off the ships… We felt in pretty good hands with someone with credentials like that.  

After dinner, we took advantage of Stephen and his rental car to get some of the bulk supplies for our upcoming trip to the Caribbean, planning to be out of the country for up to 6 months.  The cart near capacity we headed home to unload.  Bags stacked on top of each other in the saloon waiting to be stowed, I’ll tackle it tomorrow.  

Lighted barge towing dredging equipment with a second barge at the aft end

Sept 30  Wednesday

So, the tropical storm,now hurricane Joaquin, is building off Bermuda and may head up the east coast.  One prediction has it coming ashore at Norfolk and continuing on through the Chesapeake Bay.  We are south of Norfolk about 12 miles and in land about 25 miles west.  We are in the ICW canal within a mile of the lock.  We should not get any tidal surge, the lock keeping the canal isolated from the river and ocean.   A fairly good place to hold up in a hurricane if needed.  The marina ships store here is well equipped with any supplies we might need.  Jim asked about the availability of oil filters They didn't have any in stock but could order them.  It’s 9am, they be here at 11 today… if you want a 3rd it’ll take longer… 1 pm, today… ok.  we now have our 3 filters on board.  

The day was spent with Jim running new voltage wire to the SSB and installing the antenna wire.   I tackled the job of vacuum packing the purchases from yesterday into smaller portions.  I have some great air tight containers for small quantities that keep moisture and air from penetrating things.   The bulk foods need to be repacked and stowed for use later.  Unfortunately, I had one too many things to vacuum and my seal a meal bit the dust.  Our luck with small appliances has been tested this week.  We electrocuted an old fan, my iPod took a hit of salt water (the rice bag trick didn't work) and now my seal a meal… grrr

We were able to get things back in order (mostly) before Stephen came home.  He carted us off to a Postnet to ship a package ‘home’ (thank you Dave and Rose for the use of the  charts) then to get a few things to make dinner: crab cakes.  

Flooding rains

We had another enjoyable evening with Stephen.  He now calls south east Florida home.  He and his wife both lost their jobs within months of getting married a few years ago… They took it in stride and both decided to further their education.  They have great careers ahead of them in fields they enjoy and are in demand!  We couldn't be more proud of the two of them!  

Oct 1   Thursday

How can it be October already?  It is still in the high 70’s and low 80’s during daylight hours here.  Other than the relentless rain this week, we have had fantastic weather.  Hurricane Joaquin continues to build, causing plenty of jitters around the boat yard.  We are making mental notes for what we need to do if it indeed comes ashore near us:  Sails off. Canvas off.  Extra fenders and dock lines. Insurance paid.  Get inland if there’s a direct hit.   We have been monitoring several different news sources but we have a secret weapon too!  Back in Saugatuck / Grand Rapids one of our dear friends that we left behind just happens to be a retired weatherman from Grand Rapids, Dave Whitford… He has been tracking our progress along our journey and most recently providing emails with links to weather sites.  Pretty cool we have our own personal ‘weather man’ looking out for us.  Thank you Dave.

  

Todays chores… Try to figure out how to use the SSB.  Jim and I both have our ‘ham’ license and so does the boat / radio.  Yes, the boat and radio need to be licensed as well.  Jim has downloaded the codes to program the radio for the stations we will need and use.  Tomorrow at 7 am we hope to hear Chris Parker’s weather broadcast.  He is THE weather guru for SSB radio users along the East Coast and the Caribbean.  For a small fee you can sigh up and get personalized weather forecasting from him.  

How do you get a motorcycle off a Yacht ? by hoist  of course

Since Tuesday morning there has been a steady steam of south bound traffic, mostly huge, HUGE power boats.  Yesterday, one pulled up behind us at the fuel dock.  They filled their boat tanks, jet skis and 2 motorcycles which they had to off load using their on board hoist.  They were so big and wide they had to untie from the dock, turn around in the cannel then return to the fuel dock to fill the tanks on the opposite side of the boat.  I can’t even begin to calculate their fuel costs…  

A dolphin watching boat arrived today as well, the companies wanting to protect their investments as best they can… These captains feel this is the best spot to weather the storm we feel pretty good about being here too.  

The canal is hosting a lot of flotsam from the rising water levels.  Big ole logs bobbing about, one longer than 40 feet, branches here and there and a bit of trash too.  It has been raining for over a week.  Pretty tired of being soggy.

Stephen completed his course successfully, adding to his resume.  Cograts!  We ate aboard not wanting to go out to celebrate in the drenching rains.  A game of rummy for entertainment.

 dinner together 

Oct. 2   Friday

Crisis averted.  Joaquin has headed off shore.  It’s as close as we ever hope to come to a real hurricane!  The rains continued here all day, flooding streets and causing delays.  The weather reports say all this rain is not associated with the hurricane, it’s just a large weather cell dumping loads of water. We had planned to go to the beach or the Outer Banks but with conditions being what they were we opted to stay local.  Having gotten up fairly early, we headed out for a shopping spree.  With access to a car we decided now would be a good time to get our non perishable bulk food items.  We spent over 2 hours topping out 2 grocery carts, estimating what we might need for 5+/-  months while in the Caribbean.  Finding places to stow so many things will be daunting.  Another couple stops and we picked up an Inter-Coastal Waterway Guide, some storage binz and some ‘Neverwet’ for the cockpit chairs and pillows.  It absolutely poured the entire time we were out.  We brought the bags aboard but not wanting to deal with stowing the goods just yet, it will take hours, we had a quick lunch and decided to head to the movies.  The premier of Martian in 3D.  We all thought it was pretty good and mostly believable for a sci-fi type movie. No spoilers here… 

The river flooding into the  parking lot  

For a dinner celebration of Stephen’s training and his last night with us for a while, we went to Pirate’s Cove, a local seafood eatery.  The food was great made even better by the company. The rains let up by the time we finished dinner, now just a drizzle.  Back aboard Stephen helped me program my iPhone with music.   We managed to make it up an hour past boaters midnight but since he has to leave by 4:30am to make his return flight home we turned in for the night. 

Oct 3   Saturday

3:30 am.  We were up to say our goodbyes to Stephen.  More freakin’ goodbyes.  We got a bit more sleep and then on to the day’s agenda.  Stowing the purchases.  I was too consumed with the task to even think about taking a picture of the piles of cans and boxes and stuff.  Bummer, it was pretty amazing.  It nearly filled the saloon seating areas.  Sorting was first, then stowing and rearranging, rearranging and stowing.  It took hours.  By lunch I had put a huge dent in the piles and by early afternoon it was all nice and neat in binz, boxes and drawers.  Unfortunately, I was not as diligent as I was when we first moved aboard with my inventory lists.  Looks like I have something to do tomorrow… 

We had to do a load of laundry because our bath towels were getting smelly and molding with all the wet weather.  Jim had some luck with the SSB after tightening a few connections.  We heard a ship in the Atlantic asking for information about the missing cargo ship off the Bahamas… no word or sightings from them since they sent our their distress call.  We are hoping they make it home safely.

We have numerous emergency devices on board for emergencies.  Getting the SSB working properly is pretty important to us for off shore communication.  We will stay put till at least Tuesday, hoping to get Chuck the radar (SSB radio) guy to come back and help tune it in for clearer reception.   

The weather is expected to continue to slowly better; sunnier and warmer. Looking forward to less water on the boat now that we are completely salt free.  We have been fairing better than our neighbors though.  They are transporting a 95 foot power boat with ‘toys’ to Fort Lauderdale.  Stephen has worked on this type of boat and says they run about 2.5 million… but it leaks like a sieve.  They have had tarps draped on deck and tied down and still getting water in the cabin.  I guess I can deal (for now) with our little drip from the galley hatch, it drips right into the sink!  Knowing were the leak is, is the hardest part of stopping it… we just have to take the time to re-bed the glass… and have dry weather to do it.  

Flooded streets and parking lot

Oct 4  Sunday

It’s a bit drier out today.  People here at the marina are venturing out in between rains.  Jim and I decided we needed to stretch our legs so we walked over to the Great Bridge Monument area commemorating the Battle of the Great Bridge.  Unfortunately we managed to pick up a few hitchhikers.  Sand burrs.  If you have ever had an encounter with them you know what a miserable excuse they are for a life form.  Luckily Jim had some tweezer on his pocket knife and the job of removal was almost pain free.  Then on to Kelly’s Tavern for a beverage and some football.  It needs to be said, so here goes.  Jim and I by association, are Bears fans… but they are having another lousy season… Today however, they somehow managed a win although we couldn’t see any of the plays, all stations tuned to the Washington game for the local fans here.  Taking with the waitress, she told us about the drug bust last night her here in the parking lot.  We heard lots of sirens and flashing lights from the boat about 10 last night.  As the police surrounded the cars and dealers, one of the suspects took off on foot.  Not sure how that worked out for him… it’s a rally small island!  

Having only been at the Tavern an hour and a half, the place was steadily clearing out.  The waitress left to move her car… the river was rising pretty fast and high tide was increasing the flow.  Looking out, we could see the parking lot was under water… the river flowing into it.  Cars were taking their chances and exiting the lot, water half way up the tires.  We decided we’d better head out too.  Outside we saw the entire area was under water.  The parking lot and the access road.  We had to off our shoes and socks and roll up the pants.  We trudged through the water to the main highway, about a quarter of a mile.  Traffic was backed up there as well, the main roads flooding along the river.  We are living the dream!

more flooding...

One of the guys from the boat behind us stopped by. after we returned.  Jamie is helping his good friend Ronnie get Bella Vita to Fort Lauderdale.  They left 2 days ago from Connecticut!  2 fuel stops along the way… 1,600 gallons each time…  He hung out with us aboard Inishnee till 9 when Ronnie called us over for a bite to eat.  He’s a chef and restaurant owner… no way we’re passing this up!  We were introduced to the captain while Ronnie poured us a wine.  Ronnie’s brother owns the boat but is selling it, his new 140 foot boat is being built in Italy.  We got tour; a huge living area with dinning room and wet bar.  A separate gourmet kitchen.  The bridge with lots of electronics and bucket seats for 2, off to port another seating area.  Forward and below, 3 guest cabins with private heads / showers.  The owners suit is below the saloon, with his and hers ensuite heads / showers as well as walk in closets.  The crew quarters; each cabins with private heads are in the stern.  There were plenty of amenities too, jet skis and big screen TV.  The other half seems to be doing pretty well.  Dinner was chicken smothered in fresh vegetables, home made pasta and chewy bread…    dessert: Thin Oreos… new to the market, Ronnie says they are even more scrumptious when dipped in champagne.  I now need to buy champagne… and Thin Oreos!  Full, slightly tipsy, we drug ourselves away from the ‘Good Life’ and back home.  Even with all it’s fancy gadgets and toys… I prefer Inishnee over Bella Vita; honestly.    

crafting ....

Oct 5  Monday

No rain today.  Overcast and windy.  Reports of the lost ship are coming in.  It seems it has sunk.  One body found and some debris… feeling pretty awful for their crew and families.  

Slow getting around this morning, the gloomy skies sapping our motivation.  We did some internet shopping, shipping it to friends Sue and Jake who will be visiting us soon.  Looking forward to some girl time with Sue! … there are a LOT of guys out here boating… tell your single girl friends boating is a great way to meet men… the lifestyle is pretty awesome too.

Swing bridge on the ICW

We had take out pizza for lunch pretty awful… Jim changed the oil and I went to explore the shopping center.  I bought a pair of winter gloves… it will be chilly off shore at night and we are planning a trip home in December… I have said many times, I was meant to vacation in snow, NOT live in it.  So, we will.  Daughter Theresa graduates mid December from University and we’ll be there to congratulate her.   We hope to meet our newest, yet to be born, grand baby!  Hang in there Nicki…you’re a great mom to Miss Nora and the new baby is lucky to have you both.  Son Alex is equally great as a partner and father.  Such great reasons to return to the frozen north.  

gauge for bridge height ...

I worked on my first artsy project of the entire trip this afternoon!  It felt so good to do something creative and fun.  Jim loaned me his specialty knot book and I made my first nautical coaster… It turned our really nice.  I’ll be making more.  Dinner: country ribs and asparagus.   

Oct 6  Tuesday / North Carolina

ICW near CoinJock

ICW ...

After 8 days in Chesapeake, we are finally heading out.  Coinjock, NC, about 40 miles south next destination.  Our neighbors from Bella Vita left ahead of us.  It was cold (66 degrees), windy and cloudy.  Traveling the ICW (inter coastal waterway) Albermarle / Chesapeake Canal means we have to motor and be vigilant while steering; very narrow channel and debris from high water to watch for.  We crossed into North Carolina enroute.  We had to wait out a couple of swing bridge opening times but for the most part the trip was uneventful.  There was a few ‘dismals’ (local terminology for swamp) along the way then the Canal which then opened to the North Landing River then the Coinjock Bay and Coinjock NC.  The marina is pretty spartan with few guests and Crabbie’s Restaurant is closed Mondays and Tuesdays… maybe even tomorrow according to the marina.  Dinner on board tonight.  I put a roast in the pressure cooker with some veggies.  The marina owner, Terry, was very pleasant and willing to assist as needed.

ICW ...

A dismal (swamp)...

swamp

Jim helped another boat coming in as the sun was setting, they were disappointed to find the restaurant was closed.  We had plenty so we invited them over.  It was a very pleasant exchange.  They brought pasta / sauce with pepperoni to accompany our roast and fixin’s.  Michael owns S/v BeClamer, a Catalina 32.  He is heading to his new land base in Punta Gorda FL. from Vermont.  His friends Charlie and George are helping with the first leg of the journey then he will pick up other friends and family for the 2nd and 3rd legs.  Having boating in common, our conversations were mostly nautical, although sports and family were interwoven.  We easily stayed up well past boaters midnight.  They plan to be up and gone around dark-thirty so it’s doubtful I’ll see them off in the morning.  Safe travels!  Just as we were ready to close up the hatches and consider some serious down time, a shout from outside.  Michael came back with a treat.  Butterscotch Krimpets… a Vermont ‘Twinkie’ like cake with a twin in the package that has a butterscotch flavor.  All kinds of childhood memories wrapped up in cellophane for Vermonters.  The dishes done, thank you Jim, our treat awaits.  

Krimpets 

Chesapeake Bay: Annapolis MD to Norfolk VA.....

This post is pretty long... reliable internet is hard to find... 

hope you enjoy our latest adventures

Sept 11  Annapolis MD

Latin dancing, Annapolis MD

After posting the blog last night, we walked the length of Ego Alley.  The main inlet / dock to downtown Annapolis.  It is literally in the middle of town, the place to see and be seen.  One end is a park area was hosting live music and Latin dancing. Most of the spectators were dance participants on and off throughout the evening.  All were skilled but some were passionate and naturals leaving me in awe of their talents.  

Sept 12

Kind of a a rough night for sleeping last night. There was virtually no wind, allowing the boat to bob around like a cork.  The mooring ball rapping the hull in a not so restful manner.  We tried running the engine and idling in reverse but that worked only as long as the engine was running.  Rain sputtered on and off through out the night as well.  

The day promised more wet weather and we had no definite plans so we read and napped.  Not a bad way to spend a morning.  

Late morning, we decided to bite the bullet on some wish list purchases via internet.  We headed to town to get wifi (Starbucks) and spent a few boat units ($$) … We walked around a bit while the skies were liquid free then back aboard for lunch and a bit more reading.  

Ego Alley, dinghy dock flooded after heavy rains

We headed to town late afternoon looking for something to do and to stretch our legs again.  The streets were quite flooded due to the rain, though not enough to close them to auto traffic.  The dinghy dock and surrounding area (park) were mostly under water, the wooden posts for tying were the only reference points for the end of the landing.    We found a lively pub to fit the bill for our entertainment needs.  Crab dip served hot with mini loaves of bread and beverages rounded out the day.   We sloshed back through the still rising waters, secured our electronics in the dry bags and shoved off for home not quite fast enough to miss another quick soaking from the skies.  We had a great time in Annapolis but like they say, fish and guest (tourist) go bad after 3 days so… it’s time to leave.   

Sept 13  St. Michaels

St. Michaels, Inishnee in the background

Out goal today is St. Michaels, MD.  We made an early(ish) start of it, off by 8.  It was quite cool out and we had to get our sweatshirts on before long and then the rain gear.  Winds from the north, favorable for sailing for the most part.  We continued with the motor and the headsail out doing nearly 7 knots.  Respectable.  Just a bit of current in this part of the Chesapeake. The reason for the running the motor is our electrical needs.  We have had 3 days of rain on and off so the solar panels aren't putting out as much, our gadgets (phones, iPads and computers) are needing charges on and off but the big draw is the refrigeration.  We have the original Alder Barber unit (25 + years old) that does a great job; freezes meat and I can have all the ice cubes I want, but it is air cooled and the temps have been quite warm so it has to work all the time… so it depletes our batteries on a regular basis.  Jim says the batteries are just life support for the fridge / freezer.  He attempted to get the fridge water cooling unit to work back in Georgetown but the pump just won’t pump.  So, we are contemplating a new, efficient unit.  Less energy, better cooling capacity (ice cream anyone?)… but it will come to a couple of ‘boat unit’s in cost.  It can’t hurt to talk to the dealer right?…

A bit of rain along the way.  Lots of sails working on other boats today as well.  We made the port and had the anchor set by 1pm near Navy Point and the Maritime Museum.  A quick dinghy ride around the point and we are ready to see the sights of St. Michaels.  It was voted one of 10 best small coastal towns (USA Today)… south familiar Saugatuck? 

The main street is a couple of blocks off the water, lined with shops for tee shirts, jewelry, souvenirs and restaurants.  We found a pub showing afternoon football games (go Bears) but QB Cutler…, well.  The Packers came out victorious.  We wandered around a bit and returned to the boat for dinner.  

Sept. 14

A call to the ‘fridge guy” and he will meet us here tomorrow, 9 am… but we need a slip.  They don't come cheap here either.  We then went to make arrangements for a slip at the Higgins Yacht Yard after which we bought just enough grub at the grocery store  for dinner… we don't want to have to deal with a full fridge if we get a replacement unit.  The groveries stowed and a quick lunch and we headed to the Maritime Museum. 

The Museum highlights the life of the Watermen here on the Chesapeake Bay.  Several out buildings housing boats built and used here on the Chesapeake: Skipjacks were sailing vessels used to collect oysters. In the early days before motors, sail or poling was the norm for a vessel to collect oysters.   After motors were introduced making the boat more efficient, the beds were depleted to the point that laws were passed and oysters could only be harvested by sail or poling again.  The motors could be used to and from the beds however.  The skipjacks are interesting vessels, they were retrofitted with motors that were housed entirely in it’s own boat attached when needed for propulsion and removed and hung in davits for harvesting, in keeping with the law.  Other boats included ‘buyboats' (used for purchasing caught fish products, etc, as well as skiffs and log canoes.  One of the exhibits housed an Oyster Skiff.  It was displayed so visitors could walk around and in it, exploring.  You can walk out on a pier to what a Waterman’s Wharf would have looked like.  They have live crabs in a tank and a working exhibit for visitors to try harvesting oysters or catching crabs in the waters along the pier.  There are lots of Nettles, a fresh water jelly fish in the bay as well.  It is our understanding that the natural predators for the jelly fish have been all but eliminated and the with the brackish water temperatures increasing annually, it makes for a haven for them.  There are thousands of them… A screw pile lighthouse has been relocated from Hoopers Straight to here, it was built on stilts (screw piles) and sat above the water.  We spent several hours wandering around till we ingest no more.  We finished the afternoon with a visit to the locally famous Crab Claw restaurant.  Raw oysters today… we’ll try the crabs next time.  

Sept 15  

quick haul our, in the slings

We weighed anchor, got fuel, water and a head pump-out ($20.00 !!!) before taking your slip.  Cliff the fridge guy arrived promptly at 9:30.  His diagnosis: fridge works great, a little over charged with freon, easy to bleed off.  Replacing / fixing the water cooling pump will improve the cooling capacity and save energy however.  So, parts are being ordered.  Mean while we will replace 2 through hulls and hoses just above the water line (requires having a quick haul out).  It should only take part of a day.  All things we planned on doing while here where labor is reliable and close.   With this in mind we needed to move to the haul out well to be ready for the morning haul out.  Lines off, reverse … and … hmmmmph.  We stop dead in the water.  A quick look around we reassured ourselves we didn't forget to untie a line … but we did run (backed) aground in the slip.   With few forward reverse actions on the throttle and we resigned ourselves to the fact we are staying put for a while.  The lines tied off again and a check on the tide chart indicate we will be at low tide in an hour.  There isn’t much of a tide in the area but the harbors are all pretty shallow.  So, we have some time to kill.  

We were finally able to float out of the slip about 4pm.  We then needed to round the pier and back into the haul out well to be in the correct position for the travel lift .  There were 2 boats in the well staging area already, opposite sides.  I am still amazed at Jim’s boat handling skills.  In reverse (no bow thrusters) he backed up past the first boat, jogged to the other side of the well and expertly snugged us to the wall.  We then tied off and began the prep work for tomorrow.  Backstay (cable supporting the mast)  removed and lockers emptied where the through hulls would be replaced. A light dinner and a good nights sleep.  

Sept 16

St Michaels / Quick haul

We are at the Higgins Yacht Yard.  They have been incredibly accommodating.  We walked up Monday requesting their services and Tuesday we are getting the work done.  We were ready to go and Brian (service tech) had us on the hard by 9:15.  I got a quick tutorial on how to power wash and got started on the hull cleaning.   The yards here are all in strict compliance with hazardous waste laws capturing the run off in mesh material placed on the ground under the work areas.  Jim and Brian got to worked on the through hulls. By noon the entire job was completed.  But remember that silly thing about the tide… we hung in the slings for the rest of the afternoon waiting for the tide to come up enough to float the boat.  We used the time to cleaning the top sides and put things back in order.  

Kathy, Marilyn, Ken and Jim

We then received a  call from acquaintances Marilyn and Ken.  We met Marilyn back in Lake Erie.   She said they lived on the Chesapeake and we should look them up while we are here.  So we did and they have just arrived in St. Michaels with their boat, S/v Dream Ketch’r.  A 41’ Tartan (Tock).  They popped over, up… we are still on the hard, and made plans to meet for dinner.  

Brian came back to launch us just before 5pm.  Jim then replaced the back stay and we set off right away to anchor.  Thinking we could save some time, we choose a spot closer to town near our friends Ken and Marilyn.  It didn't take long to run aground in the shallow muddy waters near them so… we backed off and returned to the outer bay.  By 6 we were heading back to town for our dinner date.  

A bit about Ken and Marilyn.  For the last 9 +/- years they have lived aboard their boat and spent most of that time in the Caribbean.  They are now back state side and plan to sail here during the summers.   They had great information to share and they were sooooo excited for us too.  We completely enjoyed our visit with them.   We returned to their boat after dinner and before long it was nearly midnight… the real one, not boaters midnight (9pm).  We are very happy to have gotten to know them and look forward to our next encounter.. . 

Kathy, Jim and Bill

Sept 17 

South River / Bill Adams

We hauled anchor by the crack of 10am and bid goodbye to Marilyn and Ken.  We were off for South River to meet up with Bill Adams.  Bill was our agent while we were boat shopping 8 years ago.  Our relationship / search spanned nearly 2 years for this process.  He was instrumental in eventually locating and helping with the purchase details of buying S/v Inishnee.  We wanted to meet up with him and thank him in person after all this time and services.  

We anchored outside his office in the harbor.  He met us at the dock and proceed to shuttle us to the grocery store.  We all returned to the boat with our purchases and Bill was able to get a look-see at the boat which he had never laid eyes on, the boat being in Florida at the time of the purchase / sale.  We thoroughly enjoy our visit with him, sharing numerous things in common.  Boating, military connections and exchange student hosts.  

Sept 18    Soloman Island 

small Crabbing boat

We were up early to head to the Soloman’s, south of here nearly 50 miles.  Jim was on the bow retrieving the anchor when we were hailed by 2 guys from a small crabbing boat.  They greeted us warmly and stayed to answer our many questions about crabbing.  The 2 brothers (never thought to ask their names) were out on this incredibly beautiful morning snatching up crabs from their long line.  They had already taken about 2 dozen keepers, all male by law.  They had about 1000 feet of line out, buoyed on each end by jugs.  The line is weighted to the bottom and baited with chicken necks (or bull lips).  The crabs grab hold of the bait and start feasting.   The boat uses an ‘arm’ off the side that the bait line runs along as it is being gently lifted up as they slowly move along the line.  As the line nears the top, the ‘netter’ scoops up the crab/s with a metal net and plops them in a cooler for inspection: size and sex, tossing back the non keepers.   They said we should give it a go, the license not costing much and with little investment we could be dinning on Blue Crabs, the local variety.  This could be interesting, and tasty! 

this little cut makes Soloman Island and Island

Continuing on, the day was picture perfect.  Unfortunately not much wind and all of it on the nose.   We motored along passing the time dodging crab pots, watching small schools of fish surface and skip along.   A few crabs swimming about here and there too.  Then, a pelican!   ‘Funny bird that pelican, its mouth can hold more than its belly can’.. (mom Nee joke).    Not too many jelly fish today, but there have been thousands of them drifting along in other parts of the bay.    

We can tell we are nearing Soloman Island when we see the military jets, then hear them as they do manurers.  The Island is conveniently located next to Patuxent River Naval Air Base, a naval air training base.  The skies are peppered with aircraft: jets, helicopters and ???.  We can hear the jets screech as they bank and then fly over (about 500 - 1000 feet) with deafening vibrations.  The guide book reviews say the flights are daytime for the most part.  It’s quite spectacular to watch them come and go so closely.  

The harbor is small but we secure a great spot in the middle, only one other boat at anchor.  There are numerous restaurants / bars within walking distance, a few with music.  We head to the Tiki Bar and toast another fine day.  Dinner tonight aboard, salmon with pistachio brown sugar glaze and corn on the cob.  Dessert… ice-cream from our freezer!  I love that it is working better and staying colder… 

Sept 19

Screw Pile Light house

Can you say fog bank?  We were completely fogged in this morning, dew so heavy is was running down the windows.  The watermen heading out passing by could only be heard and felt (their wake) it was so thick.  We had a great morning just reading and napping and being completely cozy in the cabin.  As the morning turned into afternoon the sun struggled through and the fog burned off.  We forced ourselves into the dinghy and took a walk around.  The island is having a festival this weekend.   Today a car and art show along the Patuxent River.  As we walked along we discovered the secret to the island… a ditch / culver / creek that allows water to pass through making the island… an island.  Before returning to the boat went on a most excellent dinghy ride to the end of Black River.  Again, we are in awe of the many, many boats out here.  And they just keep getting bigger and bigger.  We spent the remainder of the day being pretty lazy.  Sitting aboard rotating between the sun and the shade regulating our temps like reptiles.  

Sept 20

Extreme Docking, full forward

Reverse and tossing rings

With the weather being cool and the skies gloomy we sat around all morning doing a lot of nothing again.  By afternoon the sun was poking out every now and again so Jim and I decided to head to shore before cousins Michael, Kathleen and Cayley arrived bearing ‘gifts’.  They have been kind enough to allow us to use them for package deliveries. Jim and I headed to the south end of the island to check out the excitement we had been listening to for the last couple of hours.   Plenty of shouting, engine revving and LOTS of boat traffic.   It was a very quick walk.  We were soon enjoying what is known around here and Extreme Docking… rodeo type events for Watermen.  They are held nearly every summer weekend in a different location throughout the bay.  The towns have a festival of some sort to coincide with it.  Todays event was hosted by the Calvert County Waterman’s Association.  The gist of it is a completion amongst the Watermen in which they maneuver their boats from the start position in a slip,  fast forward, then reverse it into another adjacent slip of 4 wooden posts, each with a metal arm attached.  These posted must be roped by someone on the boat with one of 4 huge rings.  Each heat being timed.  The captains were amazingly skilled at these maneuvers.  There were different types of heats.  One where a woman must toss the rings while the captain drives, another featured children driving and their moms doing the lassoing.   One of the final heats required the captain to drive and lasso the posts alone.  The winning time was 19.? seconds.  As times were getting lower and lower, trying to beat each other or besting their own times, a ‘mom and child’ heat ended with mom tossing the last ring and her going overboard in the process… Cheers and laughter went up throughout the crowd.  Faster and faster, more ‘ringers’ going in the drink… 

Cousins:  Cayley, Mike and Kathleen

The cousins arrived just in time to see the last heat.  We then returned to the boat for our own boating excursion.  Kathleen and family brought some awesome sweet treats for later too… Thank You!   We upped the anchor and set off with 15 - 18 knots of wind.  After 2 weeks of being on the Chesapeake we were finally sailing and doing over 7 knots.  It was great.  The rail  (side of the boat) threatening to take a dip every now and again.  Everyone took a turn at steering which was a bit of a challenge with the boisterous winds.  Kathleen was a natural.  With daylight dwindling we had to call it a day.  We returned, dropped the hook and set off for dinner together.  Stoney’s Kingfisher Seafood House.  We shared stories of childhood and current affairs.  Michael was able to score tickets to see The Pope this week at the White House !… He has some great connections!  Returning to the boat we were laden down with our delivery of boat parts ordered last week in Annapolis.  Before long Jim was ‘Nee’ deep in parts and couldn't resist installing one of the new quiet, energy efficient fans.  The 5 minute’s to install instructions must have been written by the same people that tells us the grocery store is only 5 minutes away… An hour later the new fan was up and running, quietly and saving lots of amps.  We rewarded ourselves with some chocolate and cherry pie, our sweet treat gifts from the cousins.… What a great day

Sept 21

yum !

dinghy riding

Kind of gloomy out today.  Much cooler.  We made a gloomy discovery today.   We are not yet far enough south.  We even had to dig out our pants and sweatshirts to keep the chill off.  Then on to the installation of fans number 2 and 3… again, the 5 minute installation took much, MUCH longer.  Over 2 hours.  Finally finished, we set off with the empty boxes for recycling and to find a hardware then a grocery store.  On our way to the dinghy dock we came across friends aboard S/v Whisper.

S/v Whisper, Carolyn, Larry and their 3 dogs

  A quick chat and new directions for a short cut to the store from Larry and Carolyn and we were off again.  We paid our $2.00 docking fee then set off to get our supplies.  Within a short time we were back aboard and ready to tackle the installation of the shiny new boarding ladder.  There were no installation instructions so what do you do?  Measure twice, drill, Goop, screw… attach and whah-la… Drop it over the side (with a retrieval line) and… the legs don't sit properly on the hull, kind of a problem…  Then we pull the thing up and a sinking feeling sets in.  It doesn't fold up properly either.  This is a REALLY expensive, supposedly high quality ladder.  Jim got in the dinghy to see if he could adjust it from there… nope.  Now, feeling defeated and throughly sick we spent so much money on the darn thing, we call the company.  The guys says:  ‘yeah, I don't include instructions.  People just call when they have a problem.’  So Jim listens patiently while the guy explains what to do…  They intentionally leave the support legs long so you can custom fit (cut) them to your boat.  Ok, we can do that.  And the folding part… just reverse the fold of the ladder and ‘ta da!’ , all is good!    Whew!  It’s now 5:30.  A long, productive day even with the added installation times and mishaps. 

As evening approached we realized the low lying clouds had an added benefit for us today.  Most of the flight practice for the air base must have been grounded, there were only a few fly overs.  Although quite a sight to watch, the noise pollution is very hard to adjust to.  

Sept 22

Off to Tangier Island 

The plan was to be up and underway by 8…. running just a bit late we were hauling the anchor closer to 8:30.  We had to wake our neighbor, Robert, aboard his Hylas 53.  He had anchored really close and wanting to avoid any harbor drama so early in the morning, we alerted him to our leaving so he could take up on his anchor chain to avoid a collision…. And we were off, sort of.  We headed to the nearest marina for a head pump out and fresh water.  After tying off the lines the marina informed us their power had just gone out.  So, new plan… we headed to another marina up river.  Their power had just returned and could accommodated our needs.  Before long we were underway again.  Predicted winds did not disappoint.  We sailed south with 15 - 20 knot winds from the north, our destination south.  We encounter a number of pelicans today and a derelict ship in the middle of the bay.  Our guess is target practice for the Navy… 

Target practice?

We sailed the entire way to Tangier Island, following seas made it fairly comfortable until we needed to turn toward the harbor where the waves broke over the bow and port sides sending salt spray aboard.  The shallow inlet gave us a few concerns but the depths were fine at 7.5 feet.  The area is having an extra high tide due to the winds.  About a foot above normal.  

Mr. Parks

There is little room for error in the inlet for Tangier Island.  The cut between the high ground and the low marsh area is narrow.  We clocked 21 knots as we rounded the last green / red markers of the channels.  Most of the island is close to sea level so there is little to buffer the winds.  We were relieved to see the face dock available as we approached so we came about into the wind, mother nature pushed us up to the dock and we secured the lines.  Within a few minutes Mr. Parks was there to greet us, driving his scooter out onto the pier.  Mr. Milton Parks owns and operate Parks Marina.  The only marina here.  He is 84 and still going strong but quick to tell you it’s getting pretty hard to keep up.  Not like the old days.  

We added extra fenders and lines to compensate for the rising tide and high winds which are still blasting through.  We then took off for a quick walk before the high tide flooded the lowest parts of the island and roads.  The island is very small and has held onto it’s heritage of living off the waters.  Many still making a living off the waters, crabbing / fishing, while others take advantage of the tourist season.  What little ‘dry’ land there is, is populated with homes and limited amenities.  A post office, school K-12, basic medical, restaurants and a small, but decent  general store.  Golf carts and scooters being the preferred method of modern travel.  It is about 13 miles to either shore, coastal or mainland.  Their isolation has allowed them to continue as their ancestors did; many individuals speaking an old world English dialect.  As with many coastal areas, land is precious.  A number of residence have their ancestors buried on their property, many in the front yards.  The island has just over 50 family names and just over 450 residence full time.  

Tangier Island

For dinner, I made boat version Shepard’s Pie.  It warmed the cabin and us.  Full tummies topped off the last of the ‘gifted’ pie.  The winds were now coming from the south just as strong.  The lines creaking and the fenders squawking under the strain.  High tide is upon us.  It’s almost book drop time (falling asleep while reading) or typing.  

Sept 23  

Tangiers  Island 

Anna Parks II

The winds howled all night, steady 20 knots gusting to 25+…. One slapping halyard that we couldn't locate and silence till nearly dawn.  The other two sailboats here were planning to leave this morning.   The winds and current working against their plans.  After much discussion and indecision, Josh and Carmeletta, S/v Sea Hawk,  went for it.  Their boat was pinned to the dock by the wind and current.  With the two of them on board, five others of us on the dock pushing off and holding lines.  With full reverse they flew out into the channel missing our dinghy within inches.  Josh did a great job of piloting!  He should look into those Extreme Docking challenges along the bay…

Next off were Seth and Cindy.  Their boat was on the opposite pier so their departure was much less challenging.  The wind and current helping to push them off.

Jim had quite a ‘gam’ with Mr. Parks today.  He has lived here his entire life, 84 years, working as a waterman.  He is now retired except for the marina which keeps him on his toes.  He also putters with his crab boat “Anna Parks II” named for his late wife and looks after (sort of) her cats.  At one time she had over 50… now there are only around 15… kind of skittish but we saw no vermin about so they are serving a purpose.

crab shacks

The winds eased around lunch time so we decided to explore by dinghy.  First up, a crab shack to purchase fresh, frozen soft shell crabs.  Stowed in the fridge for dinner we continued on.  Nearly every crab shack is built over the water and accessible only by boat, many in disrepair.  There are quite a few sunk boats as well.  We then went for a walking tour.  Just down the dock from the our boat we met Mark who was cleaning hard shell crabs from his pier; home to his former business as a crabber.  He was more than happy to share with us the how to’s about cleaning crabs and some local knowledge about crabbing and the area.  He now ferries tourists from the mainland here and back.  He is passionate about his home, livelihood and its heritage.  

Next we hopped aboard one of the many golf carts tours run by the women here.  She gave a well rehearsed narrative tour of the highlights of the island and answered any questions put to her.  15 minutes and we were back where we started… It’s a small island.   There have been many articles and documentaries depicting the islanders and their way of life. 

Next, we went on a mission to find an old crab float for my collection of unique souvenirs from places we are visiting.  After quite a few inquiries we happened upon Mark again.  He sent us back to his pier and crab shedding troughs.  “Take as many as you want dear…” , much to Jim’s dismay.  What can I say, I love items that have memories within them, not a stamp from china that says I bought it there… Mark pulled a few good, beat up ones out for me and I was on my way with my treasures.  

Mark explaining the proper way to clean crabs

Jim was hard at work rinsing off the salt spray then on to modifying our new boarding ladder.  The leg braces need to be custom fit / cut; even and flush with the hull per instructions from the company.  The finished product fits great.  I remember back to the Hudson River trying to board the boat from the rear boarding ladder.  I nearly pulled my arm out of its socket (a slight exaggeration) trying to get on the boat from the dinghy.  The boat seesawing up and down and the dinghy doing the same but opposite in timing.   It was decide then that we needed a better method so we now have the solution in place with the side boarding ladder.

Shiny new ladder soon to be installed

The island is ‘dry’ so if you come for an adult beverage, you’ll be served tea or coffee.  We enjoyed the late afternoon sipping our usual adult beverage, the boat not being ‘dry’ in that respect.    Then on to the soft shell Blue Chesapeake Bay crabs.  When a crab molts, its new shell takes about 24 hours to harden.  If the crab is ‘harvested’ during this time the shells are soft and the entire crab can be eaten.  Several crab shacks specialize in this and harvest the crabs and keep them in a trough until they molt at which time they are frozen to stop the hardening process or eaten immediately.   They were cleaned prior to freezing / eating but some of the locals advised us to remove the ‘stuff’ under the back shell plate.  Jim tried his both ways, I choose to go clean with mine.  We parboiled then flour dredged them and sautéed them in butter and olive oil till golden.  A few soft boiled potatoes, smashed and a zucchini to round things out.  The crabs were great, shells and all.  We tried one each as a sandwich; white bread, mayo, crunchy lettuce and the sautéd  crab (as instructed).  Also good.  We ate 6 of the 12 we bought so we will be eating them again soon.  Again our bellies are full and we have had another fine day.  Winds have diminished, tide is up.  Dishes are done and our books are waiting for book drop.

Just as I was going to call it a night, I heard voices outside; it’s well after dark, then a bow thruster (side propulsion on some boats).  I popped my head up to see a huge 49 foot Hunter sailboat circling and attempting to dock.  Jim and I were on the dock in no time.  2 other boaters were ready to assist as well.   It’s after dark.  A new harbor and dock for newcomers.  The winds are well over 20 knots and the current is 3 + knots… They made it out of the main channel and threw a line to one of the guys who managed to get one wrap around a piling.   Repeated attempts to throw a second line to shore proved useless.  Jim ran to our boat and got a long line, tossed it to them and the 4 of us were able to wrestle them to the dock.  They threw a few more lines to us and Jim was able to quickly lash them together to make lines adequate to hold them securely in place.  It took nearly 45 minutes to get them secured.  We retrieved our line while the family of 4, mom, dad and 2 children thanked us all profusely.  They had had a rough time today.  They had run aground at a near by island, threw 2 anchors over to prevent drifting while waiting for high tide, one of them getting wrapped in their prop.  They were able to free the anchor and get off the sandbar at high tide so they decided to head to Tangiers, the next closest port.  They are safe and the rest is now history… way too much Harbor Cinema tonight. 

before...

Sept 24

Next stop, anchoring in Bryant Cove off Mojack Bay.  With the winds still  barreling down from the north and the current pinning us against the dock, Jim devised a plan to get us off safely and underway.  We enlisted the help of our new dock mates.  According to plan, we made it off the dock without any drama and were very thankful.  We waved goodbye to Tangiers.  As soon as we had enough depth under the keel to safely come about we hoisted sail and clipped along at well over 6 knots with only the main sail pulling.  Surfing the waves brought speeds as high as 8 knots.  Although a bit over cast, it was a great sail.  We made over 45 miles today heading generally south with a north wind pushing us.  4 foot waves chasing us down the bay.  The afternoon brought a slight shift in winds and we pulled out the head sail, gaining another knot.  Nearing the bay to anchor for the night, I was sitting on the side deck of the cockpit, enjoying the sun when right next to the boat / me a dolphin broke the surface and dove under the boat.  I was so shocked I jumped to the other side of the cockpit with a shout… Jim was in disbelief, so was I.  We are still 35 miles or so from the ocean.  Who knew they came up the bays so far???  Continuing on, we set the anchor, ate the last of the crabs and enjoyed the remainder of the days light from the cockpit.  Oh, and the dolphin came back to say goodnight… this time Jim got to see it too.  I hope I never tire of seeing them.    We made great time today, better than expected arriving 2 hours earlier than estimated!  Another great day

after...

Sept 25

Norfolk VA and the end of the Chesapeake Bay

enroute to Norfolk

The wind howled all night and we bobbed around quite a bit.  The winds were predicted to be at least 25 knots from the north today, waves 5ish feet.  We readied the boat for the ride knowing we’d be taking some water over the bow and it would be a spirited ride.  Jim dug out the stay sail and hanked it on.  We donned our life jackets and hauled the anchor.  The ride to the bay was about 10 miles, waves coming broad side but less than 3 feet.  A few dolphins escorted us out.  By the time we made the bay we were doing a steady 7+ knots, a double reef in the main, 4 -5 foot following seas.  The boat and crew had a great time even with the cloud cover and spitting rain.  We fishtailed every now and again but the tickle bellies sliding down waves were the best.  Norfolk just ahead; two tugs pulling / pushing barges and Warship 72 coming in from live ammunition manurers on the Atlantic and the winds now gusting over 30 knots… The Warship called to say he would pass to starboard after which we came about to douse the sail.  The bow blasting through the waves now on the nose, what a ride!  Turning back south we surfed into the bay and over the Bay Bridge Tunnel.  Pretty impressive undertaking building a 2 lane bridge that transforms into a tunnel allowing auto traffic to pass under the mouth of the bay.  A distance of a mile of so.  Next we passed a dozen or so Navy ships; aircraft carriers with planes on deck and ships of differing sizes.  The waves steadily diminished as we continued on to our marina about 5 miles down the bay.  We passed quite a bit barge construction; they are digging another tunnel.  By the time we reached Waterside Marina, the winds had died down to 4 knots and the waves less than a foot.  The marina reps were there to catch our lines as the rain started to fall.  We were happy to be secure for the night.  A pot of chili made for a tasty and filling dinner.  The marina is in the heart of downtown Norfolk which promises to be an entertaining and lively stop for the weekend.   

dang hard to get pictures of dolphins... except their fins

Tomorrow son Stephen comes aboard for the week!  I can hardly wait!  It’s hard to be so far away from our family and friends.

We have traveled just over 2000 miles since leaving Saugatuck, nearly 3 1/2 + months ago.    It’s been a great ride so far… 

War ship 72 of our Port side

One of our friends friends from Saugatuck, Tower Marina, Jeff M. wrote us in response to my "fish net ?' picture from the northern part of Chesapeake Bay... He lived in this area for years and shared his insight,  he gave me permission to use the info... thank you Jeff!

The nets in the Delaware River or Northern Chesapeake Bay were probably for Shad, a migratory fish that swims into estuaries to spawn. The roe is taken and the fish smoked.  Although caught near where I grew up, I've never eaten it.  There is every possibility that those nets were for some other specie for fertilizer, cat food, or fish sticks!