I have a bit of a dilemma. I have invited my dearest friend (like since we've been 5yrs. old) and his 14 year old kid to the "Q". Both are newbies (my buddy showing great promise as a potential hardcore however having done a tough Algonquin trip with zero complaint).

My problem is this. Since we are base camping I can already picture myself getting up before daylight and basically just being gone fishing.........like all the time.........alone.
I have a sneaking suspicion that makes me a Schmuck (or worse). I have already sealed the deal by informing them that scenario is likely........better they come to grips before we get out there, no surprises.

I'm leaning toward some 2 way radios so maybe we can meet up for lunch. I'm also giving strong consideration to taking the kid fishing (swapping canoes) a few times. Add some day trips every other day so we can do some portages and travel together and I might be able to pull it off where everyone comes home happy.

"Am I a Shmuck" could be an interesting poll question. If any of the mods want to set that up I can laugh at myself. But more importantly if anyone has any suggestions that could be helpful I am all ears.

Both are chompin at the bit to fish. In fact Santa was very good to them. They are locked and loaded. I love fishin with a buddy, as long as that buddy is QUIET. I don't know many 14 year olds who are quiet. I always have Mr. Big on my mind so dropped pliers are a cause for gastrointestinal distress.  

That said, you are right. I need to make sure they have a good time (And they will!).  Thanks, I needed to hear that from the right person.

I kinda like the "stay back at camp and cook scenario".........But the "I catch'em, you clean'em" sorta gal might be hard to come by in this day and age.  

When the Missus found out I had no intention of "hanging out with the guys" for extended periods and felt an overwhelming desire for some solitude and some quality time with my finny friends she put a mirror up and asked what I saw. "A schmuck"! (Schmuck; common mafia/wise guy reference to an undesirable who lacks honor).

Marlin, what do you coach? Seems like I'm at some game or another 3 days a week.

IC has it right.
The best thing the 14 year old can get out of this trip, is a sense of independence and RESPONSIBILITY

He's closer to being a man than a child, I'd give him plenty of "man" chores to keep him busy without being a Schmuck about it

Explaining the "whys and whens" , before they happen will give him a chance to take responsibility for his actions and let him feel like he's a valuable part of the trip.  Personal responsibility is sadly lacking in today's youth. Money can't buy that, but the chance to share the load in a wilderness setting can.

Any lunkers you catch will just be icing on the cake, if you return with two  former "newbies" who have had the trip of a lifetime.

I_C,
Your shoreline fishing is a good one. Is there anything more socially enjoyable than hanging out on the bank with a big crawler on the bottom or a fat chub swimming around?

S_T
While I'm a big "personal responsibility" guy and can be a tough disciplinarian with my own kid I'm leaning the other way on this. My general motto on trips is "let everyone do what they want". A 14 year old is constantly under unrelenting authority.( that is if the parents are any count) My plan is to treat him as an equal this first trip and ask him if he wants to help out. If he doesn't I'll act as if I could care less. He's a good kid and sooner or later he'll come around if he doesn't feel like he's under the thumb. Canoe trips are supposed to be fun, right?

Preacher
You have probably most mirrored my own thoughts. With boat, packs, tents and guide service provided I feel entitled to be AWOL for some time. It was probably good to inform them that they need to be self sufficient. KF has it right though, I need to seek some balance. If I'm not careful I can fish 12 to 14 hours non-stop for days at a time. (always something new to try ) I would be doing both them and probably myself a disservice. Besides, Tim's a great guy....the definition of easy going.