A-Jay

Last year's results - Just let me know if there's anything else I can do for you sir. 😁 A-Jay

I didn't think folks were believing any of this. Just an excuse to have a little fun. My brain is almost thawed out. 😬 A-Jay

Way to make it happen my friend. Especially in that muddy water. At least you got to wear sunglasses. Mostly, Thank You very much for taking the time and making the effort to write these detailed reports. I so much enjoy following you along as you hunt those gorgeous smallies in that most majestic river. Now, go respool that bladed jig rig with new/heavier line ! And go get the Kraken ! A-Jay

Taking my wife for treatment—this was 2 weeks ago @ 9AM. https://www.facebook.com/reel/1433359981044418/ 🥶 A-Jay

My training has included a step-back lunge somewhere in the program for a long time. There are different variations and recently I have been performing them in an alternating leg fashion with the front leg elevated 6 inches, holding a single dumbbell in a goblet position (to my chest). This is an exceptionally effective, advanced unilateral leg exercise that combines the deep range of motion of a deficit lunge with the loading and core challenges of a goblet hold. Specifically targeting the glutes, quads, and hip stability while reducing pressure on the knee compared to forward lunges. It requires little in the way of equipment, and beginners can start off with body weight, which could prove quite challenging early on. Here is a breakdown of why this exercise is highly effective: 1. Increased Muscle Activation (The 6-inch Elevation) Deep Glute Stretch & Growth: Elevating the front foot 6 inches (using plates or a box) increases the range of motion (deficit), allowing for a deeper stretch on the glutes at the bottom of the movement. This heightened range of motion and stretch is excellent for muscle hypertrophy (growth). Superior Quad Engagement: While engaging the glutes, the elevated position also forces more knee flexion on the front leg, increasing the workload on the quadriceps. Reduced Knee Stress: Unlike forward lunges, reverse lunges are generally easier on the knees. Elevating the front foot can further decrease pressure on the knee joint while increasing the intensity on the leg muscles. 2. Loading Strategy (Single Goblet Dumbbell) Upright Posture & Core Engagement: Holding a single dumbbell in a goblet style (tight to the chest) counterbalances the body, helping to maintain a neutral spine and an upright torso. Upper Body Involvement: This position forces the upper back, rear delts, and core to activate to stabilize the weight. Safer Progressive Overload: A goblet hold is often preferred over goblet squats for intermediate to advanced trainees because it allows them to properly overload the legs without the core or back failing first. 3. Stability and Balance (Step-Back Technique) Better Balance Control: Stepping backwards makes it easier to keep your balance and control the descent compared to stepping forward, making it a safer option for heavy loads. Improved Mobility: It promotes better hip mobility by actively stretching the hip flexors of the back leg while strengthening the front leg. Summary of Benefits Targets: Glutes (lower glute focus), quadriceps, hamstrings, core, and upper back. Key Benefit: High unilateral strength and muscle growth with reduced knee stress. Goal: Ideal for improving overall leg aesthetics, closing strength imbalances, and enhancing functional, athletic power. Tips for Execution Maintain Control: Because of the 6-inch elevation, the movement is deep; ensure you are not dumping your hips or losing lower back posture. Lean Forward Slightly: A slight torso lean forward can help maximize glute engagement and prevent excessive upright pressure on the lower back. Step-Back Line: When stepping back, align the foot directly behind the hip (hip-distance) to avoid bringing the foot directly behind the front heel, which reduces stability. Set the Weight: Start with a lower weight to master the stability of the 6-inch deficit. Stay Strong so we can Fish Hard. A-Jay

So here we are a few days in to April already. And while there have been some notable catches so far (none by me sadly), I have a feeling there's quite a bit more to come. As the northern part of the nation begins to defrost and change from the hard to the soft water I prefer, the brown bass action should pick up dramatically. Best of luck to the people. A-Jay

Awesome ~ So there ya go. 🏆 THE 8 LB CLUB 🏆 A-Jay

Nicely Done ~ That's a Great Bass ! Congrats on the New Personal Best And if you weren't already, welcome to the 8 lb club. A-Jay

I am also a man who bands these treble hooks together. And I'm talking ALL treble hooks. I've been at it a while myself. A-Jay

Workout Day 2 ~ Maintaining the desired level of lean body mass has been a learning experience for sure. Quality food choices along with proper timing and portion control have been the foundation of my deal for a long time. The more I do it, the better I get at it. #borninfiftynine A-Jay

This little guy takes his job very seriously ~ A-Jay

They keep telling me it's going to end eventually. But I'm really concerned that my Qualude stash might not last that long. 🥴 A-Jay

That's awesome. I am really chomping at the bit myself. Don't forget to check your drag . . . . . Good luck and stay safe. A-Jay

Cool ~ The man makes these baits to order, by hand, and he's busy, so order early and often. It usually takes at least 2 weeks, sometimes 3, to get an order. #worthit Also know these baits get bites because they are soft. Good Luck A-Jay

Sweet ! A-Jay

Oh, the Truck Money and I are well acquainted. Every 2 or 3 years he literally puts a banana to my head and gives me an ultimatum. New truck, or else . . . . 🍌 A-Jay

And that's why that A-Jay guy uses a silicone mat while unhooking fish. It catches whatever and that goes over the side. Helps keep the front deck from looking like a murder scene. 😬 A-Jay

Do It ! A-Jay

Me too. A-Jay

@WaskaCrank12 Figures right ? A couple of positive thoughts I fall back on during times like these. Late open water means fishing in warmer air temps usually. And as the water warms quickly there are often concentrations of Plus Size fish all moving in at once. I'm still looking for that elusive dirty thirty pound bag and that's decent time to bump into one. Stay safe. A-Jay

Instead of a tandem, I am thinking of making my boat trailer into a dually. Just to be safe. A-Jay

Man, we had some of the hardest and most drenching rain overnight that I've seen in a long time. #biblical Lasted several hours. As a hard water hater, this is music to my ears. The remaining ground snow certainly took a hit. The forecast is calling for a bunch more rain over the next several days/nights. 13 days and a wake-up. I might not get to clean this winter off the inside & outside of my truck before my first fishing trip of 2026. But I'll get over it. A-Jay

There's a test for that now. But I think you need to poop in a hat. 💩 A-Jay

You didn't hear this from me. But I've heard whispers about a voodoo doll in your likeness. Does your face hurt at all ? 185 Days and a Wake-Up. 😉 A-Jay

Workout Day 1 ~ Hanging tough during the aging process for me means deliberately choosing to focus on small daily wins and gratitude, rather than the inevitable physical declines. It is about adopting a "resilience mindset" that redefines this chapter of my life as a time for continued purpose, such as nurturing old hobbies or mentoring, which can foster a deeper sense of fulfillment despite the losses. #borninfiftynine A-Jay