kentucky lakes

Episode 28:  It’s time for another episode of Lake Life with Molley and Chad! In today’s episode, we’re joined by our friends Fran, Rob and Adam to talk about Lake Cumberland, in Kentucky.  This is a continuation of our tour of lakes across Kentucky and Tennessee.  It's time for a deep dive into what makes this lake so special.

Please note:  This conversation includes a few, random curse words.  We apologize if you find them offensive.  Additionally, we thought we'd let any parents with young kids know, before you begin playing the episode.

Lake Cumberland Is a Special Place

Molley and Chad are recording this episode at Grider Hill Marina.  Chad talks about why Lake Cumberland is her favorite place to go.  It’s one of the prettiest lakes in Kentucky.  Although Molley and Adam agree that Dale Hollow is a close second. 

Adam’s been coming on the lake since 1985.  His buddy’s parents had been coming to Grider Hill, since the early 1970s.  Adam bought a 1963 Marionette that took a lot of work to get running.  He talks about his experiences and why he really likes this lake.  He and his friends would come to the lake and ski all day and grill steaks in the evenings. 

Fran and Rob have been coming to Lake Cumberland for the past 3 seasons.  They rode around with Adam a lot.  At the time, Fran and Rob had a pontoon.  They eventually purchased a 1986 Wellcraft St. Tropez, which was much better to sleep on compared to the pontoon.

Chad asks Fran and Rob about their favorite areas on the lake.  They like 76 Falls.  It’s close to Grider Hill Marina.  That’s a plus for them because their Wellcraft doesn’t have the power of other boats on the lake.  Rob comments about how much he enjoys the opportunity to go to sleep and wake up on the water.  It’s worth the 3-hour drive.

For Adam, even though it’s a 5-6 hour drive to get to the lake, the serenity and ability to unwind is worth it.  However, the duration depends upon how many Walmarts or Dollar Generals he hits on the way. 

Chad comments that it’s a 2-hour drive, unless Molley’s driving.

Lake Cumberland Marinas and Campgrounds

While this might not capture all of them, here’s a good list of marinas:

  Alligator 1

Alligator 2 (also known as Wolf Creek Marina )

Conley Bottom

Lee’s Ford

·      State Dock

·      Burnside

·      Somerset

·      Rowena

·      Grider Hill

There are only 3 recognized campgrounds on Lake Cumberland:

·      Pulaski County Park

·      Lake Cumberland State Park

·      Conley Bottom Campground

Favorite Activities at the Lake

Adam talks about how much he loves to cook.  He always fixes nice meals.  One of his favorite recipes is Sausage Jalapeño Bombs, which he cooks right there on his boat.  The smell usually attracts other boaters for a quick sample.  Being able to share food and meals with friends is all part of what makes this so special for Adam.

Molley talks about how Grider Hill Marina, build in the early 1950s, was one of the last family-owned docks on Lake Cumberland.  It was bought out a few years ago by a company called Safe Harbor. 

There’s a lot to do in and around the lake area.  One of Adam’s favorite activities is to boat over to Cemetery Point at sunset.  There are many places people love to visit and explore on Lake Cumberland.  Having the chance to watch the sunset, while you’re on the water is a terrific experience.

What Other Lakes Have You Visited?

Fran has visited Dale Hollow.  She and Rob have also been to Barren River Lake and Rough River Lake.  She’s not a fan of boating on the river.  Adam comments you’re either a river rat or a bathtub boater (lake boater). 

It’s Not All Fun and Games

Adam and Rob talk about the time their engine stalled in some pretty deep water.  They were half-way back to their destination, and pretty far from shore.  The question was whether they should have tried to repair it or just toss out the anchor and anchor light.  The problem was the depth where they were at the time.

In another incident, Adam had some boat trouble and ended up swimming the boat back.  They sometimes refer to him as Aquaman!

Rob really enjoys the Grider Hills area, especially when he can get a few hours on the boat before everyone wakes up. 

Places to Eat around Lake Cumberland

During the conversation, a few places are mentioned. Fran mentions that Junction Station is a gas station restaurant that serves a pretty good breakfast.  The Eli Country Store is known for its cinnamon roll pancakes.  If you cross in to Tennessee, you can find a steakhouse.  It’s only about 25 minutes from the marina. 

Molley asks again about the boats the guests own.  Fran and Ron have the ’86 Wellcraft St. Tropez.  Adam has a ’73 Trojan Express Cruiser.  And at this point, the conversation goes off the rails for a bit.

Choosing Lake Life for the Family

If you decide to choose lake life is can bring the family closer together and create lasting memories.  There’s definitely a sense of community at the lake.  There are events like the dock crawl where people get together for friendship and a little competition. 

Fran explains that their children have grown up now.  Time at Lake Cumberland gives them the chance to unplug from the day-to-day world, reconnect to each other and to create new experiences together. 

The group talks about when they begin to feel that sense of “we’re going to the lake.”  You can feel the stress melting away. 

Adam explains how the Lake Life actually chose him.  He hasn’t turned back since.

Chad tells a story about the time Rob and Fran’s boat started to sink.  A clamp came off.  They didn’t realize it until the marine assist boat was towing them back to the marina.  It definitely spoiled some of the joy of the trip.

Chad explains how a guy with a jet ski basically took over the ramp, recently.  There are simply things you need to understand about launching and trailering your boat/PWC.  Check out the episode on Ramp Etiquette.

More Fun Facts about Lake Cumberland

The sunsets are beautiful.  The lake actually has more shoreline than FLORIDA.  (Yep, Google it).  The people really make this such a great place to visit.  This sense of community fosters a feeling of belonging and creates a support system that enhances the lake life experience.

Chad comments that this sense of community is common to a lot lakes across the state.   However, there’s always that one guys at the ramp.  Check out the episode titled, Don’t Be That Guy!

Molley notices that with the dock, the group really doesn’t have to deal with the ramp.  Fran has a pop-up wagon they use to bring everything from the cars straight down to the boat.  

That’s a wrap for this episode.  We’d like to thank our friends Fran, Rob and Adam for guest hosting with us.  We hope you found it helpful, insightful and maybe a little entertaining. 

Thanks for Listening!

If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider sharing it with your social media friends.  We hope to see you out there soon.  Until next time, here’s to warm weather and calm waters!

Don’t forget to subscribe!

Episode 24:  Welcome to Lake Life with Molley and Chad! In today’s episode, our friends Jamie and Adam join us to discuss Nolin Lake in Kentucky.  It’s also called Nolin River Lake. 

Interesting Facts about Nolin Lake

Nolin Lake spans parts of Hart, Grayson and Edmonson County, near Mammoth Cave National Park.  It’s another man-made lake, like Barren River Lake. It covers roughly 5,700 acres. 

There are several popular campgrounds near the lake.  They are Dog Creek Campground, Wax Campground and Moutardier Campground.  There’s also Moutardier Resort and Marina.  The Nolin Lake State Park also features a primitive campground at Brier Creek (this may actually be a privately-owned campsite).

Fishing on Nolin

Noted for its blue-green water, Nolin River Lake is recognized as a top 5 Kentucky fishing lake for catfish, bass, crappie and walleye (or it could be white bass).

Getting Their Start with Lake Life

Adam started his lake life experience back in 1994-1995.  He bought his first fishing boat in 1996.  Jamie comments that they actually bought a 22’ Crownline runabout, before they settled on a specific lake.  They visited several lakes with the kids.  The past year, they switched to a tri-toon pontoon boat.

Chad comments about how pontoon boats have evolved over the years.  He was amazed at the prices some of them go for (i.e. $225,000).  Jamie and Adam add that boat prices have increased 30% over the past 3 years.  Molley says this could be the COVID-demand.  People wanted to get out, without being around a lot of people, so the interest in boats surged – resulting in a price surge.

Molley describes her experience with early pontoons and how the public has begun to change how they look at the comfort and features offered by this class of boats.  It’s a significantly easier ride, even if choppy water.

The Decision to Buy a Home at Nolin Lake

It was very convenient to drive to a lake that was close to home.  They already had friends at the lake.  Once they found a nice home for sale, they jumped on it.  When COVID hit, it was a terrific refuge.  Chad described how his family used their lake house all the time during the pandemic.

What’s a Lake Life Weekend Like?

Jamie notes that her anxiety starts on Thursday night because she just wants to get there.  Adam heads down Friday morning with the kids.  Jamie arrives after work.  Adam starts the weekend with typical chores (e.g. cutting grass, filling up the gas tank, etc.).  Afterwards, he and the girls might head out on the water for a while.  Adam’s excited about having the tri-toon this year, because he can simply tie it up to the dock, rather than having to mess with the trailer. 

When Jamie arrives, she might go out on the water, but usually decides to start dinner for the family. 

When they had their runabout, they each had their specific job when it came to trailering the boat.  Adam handled the truck and Jamie handled the boat.  Having well defined roles can save a ton of stress and frustration.  Chad and Molley explain why in Episode 1.  The pontoon is going to take a bit more finesse.  Adam and Jamie did some practice runs, when the lake wasn’t real crowded.

Molley and Chad have had their own “adventures” when it comes to trailering their tri-toon.  In Episode 8, they offer some great tips for ramp etiquette and trailer safety.  It takes good team work, practice and patience.  Although, Chad admits, he still has those moments. (You’ll understand if you listen to this episode).  You might also want to check out Episode 7, “Don’t Be THAT GUY!”

Jamie explains that they have a neighborhood ramp that does make launching and trailering the boat a little easier and much more convenient.  The boat ramp is always a tricky place.  Molley’s mom commented in Episode 14 that if people would just remember to show some common courtesy, things would go better for everyone.  At the ramp, it’s all about situational awareness.

Let’s get back to the typical weekend topic.  Jamie describes Saturday morning.  Adam usually starts breakfast and they hit the dock.  They’ve learned to involved the kids with lunch and snack prep.  Jamie’s primary job is to make sure everyone else has their stuff taken care of, that sunscreen is applied and that they don’t forget trash bags.  This is a Pro-Tip!

The girls like to go tubing.  Adam recommends doing this earlier in the day, in case there’s a lot of boats on the water.  If you can get out early, it’s a bit less crowded.

What other Lakes Have They Visited in Kentucky?

Adam has fished in most of them.  For pleasure boating, he’s been on Nolin, Cumberland, Green, and Dale Hollow.  Jamie grew up going to Green River Lake in Campbellsville.  She briefly discussed the difference between going in an RV verses having a home at the lake. Even their dogs get excited when they figure out everyone is heading to the lake for the weekend.

Back to the Saturday schedule.  Once the tubing is done, they’ll go find a cove with some friends and tie up for the day.  They’ll try to watch the sunset and then it’s time to head back to the lake house for dinner.  After dinner, they might decide to go visit with neighbors until it’s time to head to bed.

What Advice Would They Offer to Someone Considering the Lake Life?

Adam points out that piloting your boat on the right-side, just like when you’re driving actually is a thing.  Jamie comments that Lake Life can be a lot of work, but it’s all worth it.  It’s a financial commitment, and there’s a risk of burnout if you’re going to do it every weekend.  But again, it’s worth it!

If You Won the Lottery, What Boat Would You Buy?

Jamie says she’d get a large Sea Ray or 28’ Crownline to cruise in.  She’d want an open bow.  But in reality, she’d be just as happy owing a tiki hut on an island serving margaritas.  Adam says he’d buy a place in Florida and a 390 MTI. 

What Advice Would You Offer to a New Boater?

Adam says you have to have patience.  Don’t worry about the boat.  Just enjoy the experienced.  Jamie comments about how much she enjoys spending quality time at the lake.  There are always great conversations.  It’s brought them closer over the years. 

Chad comments how no-signal on the cell phone often helps the kiddos to open up about what’s actually going on in their lives. 

Jamie also really values the sense of community at the lake.  Their little neighborhood is pretty close-knit.  Everyone keeps an eye on everyone – especially the when it comes to the kids.  It’s a safe environment and everyone keeps an eye out for each other.

Molley talks about how there’s a specific spot on the trip down when it really hits her that she’s at the lake.  The stress literally melts away.

Nolin Lake was built for flood control.  This means the US Army Corps of Engineers drops the water level during the winter.  Adam adds this begins on October 15^th.  Once that happens, you really shouldn’t try to take larger craft out on the water.  The water level is increased, beginning on April 15^th.

Jamie talks about how her kids love to use low water levels to do some treasure hunting.  It’s amazing how many anchors you can find and recover!

In closing, Jamie recommends patience and caution.  You need to be aware of your surroundings.  She talks about how a storm quickly rolled in and the winds really made for some tense moments.

Molley strongly recommends everyone having specific jobs to do.  If a crisis occurs or surprises happen, everyone knows what their responsibilities are.  It’s a good life lesson for the kids.

That’s a wrap for this episode.  We’d like to thank our friends Jamie and Adam for guest hosting with us.  We hope you found it helpful, insightful and maybe a little entertaining. 

EPISODE SPONSOR INFORMATION:

We’d like to thank today’s sponsor and encourage you to contact them for your insurance needs.

The Alan Hall Agency

Website:  https://www.AlanHallAgency.com

Phone Number:  (502) 345-9440

 

Thanks for Listening!

If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider sharing it with your social media friends.  We hope to see you out there soon.  Until next time, here’s to warm weather and calm waters!

 

Don’t forget to subscribe!

Episode 23:  Welcome to Lake Life with Molley and Chad! In today’s episode, our friends Holly and Josh join us to discuss Green River Lake in Kentucky.  Let’s learn more about their lake adventures.

Have fun on the lake

The lake is a great place to have fun and make memories. Whether you’re fishing, tubing, skiing, or just hanging out with friends and family, there’s something for everyone. Green River Lake is an 8,200 acre lake with three marinas.  It’s known for its fishing tournaments and its sense of community. People are friendly and welcoming and there’s always someone to hang out with. The most popular gathering spot is Butler Creek, but there’s also a cove called Mount Washington Cove that people like to hide away in. 

Holly and Josh have a fishing boat/pontoon, a Bayliner ski boat and a 28-foot from Cruiser Yachts. On average weekends, they’ll go out and get some sun, ski tube with the kids, or go to Party Cove and listen to music and drink. If the kids aren’t with them, they’ll just float and relax, and then come back and grill out, play cards and play games. 

Make memories on the lake

For those who don’t own a boat, there are plenty of rental options. You can rent a pontoon, a ski boat, or even a yacht. No matter what you choose, you’ll be able to explore the lake and have a great time. For those with kids, the state park campground has a beach where they can swim and play. And if you’re looking for a more adventurous experience, you can join a fishing tournament or take part in a raft-up. 

Molley talks about her first memory at Green River Lake.  She and her brother encountered a guy fishing, but forgot to ask what he was using that day.  Chad’s family typically camped and then rented boats at Green River.  They talk a little about dealing with inexperienced jet ski operators.

Josh shares his memories about his parents starting out at Green River Lake.  Holly describes how her kids know what each of the marinas and docks feature. 

If They Won the Lottery What Boat Would They Buy?

Holly would get a seafoam green, center-console Scout.  Josh would choose a wake boat and a houseboat. 

What Are Some of Your Favorite Lakes?

Holly grew up going to Cumberland and Dale Hollow and remains partial to both.  She’s heard nice things about Norris Lake.  It’s a great mix of scenery and things to do.  She’s also been to Rough River.  Josh has been to Taylorsville, Nolin, Barren, Cumberland, Dale Hollow and Green River Lake. 

Explore Different Lakes

Exploring different lakes can be an exciting and rewarding experience. It can be an opportunity to make memories that will last a lifetime and to experience a variety of different cultures and scenery. From the calm and peaceful waters of Green River Lake to the wild and windy waters of Cumberland, there are plenty of lakes to explore. Green River Lake is a great place to start. It’s perfect for fishing, and it’s easy to navigate. The lake is wide enough that you don’t have to worry about getting lost, and it’s small enough that you can cover the entire lake in just a half tank of gas. There are plenty of cabins to rent and plenty of social activities to participate in. 

Cumberland is a great lake to explore too. It’s much bigger than Green River, and it can get very windy. But when the wind comes across the main channel, it can be like the ocean, with three-foot whitecaps. This can make for a rough ride, so it’s important to be careful. The lake is also home to some of the best bass fishing in the country. Dale Hollow is another great lake to explore. It’s a smaller lake, but it’s still a great place to fish and it’s a great place to relax. 

Exploring different lakes can be an amazing experience. You get to experience different cultures, different scenery, and different activities. You get to make lifelong memories and friendships, and you get to see what each lake has to offer. If you’re looking for an adventure, make sure to explore different lakes. 

Enjoy Time on the Lake

Molley talks about how coming home to their own lake is just as special. After visiting different places, you get to come back to the familiarity of your home lake. You know the area, the people, and the activities you can do. You also get to make new memories with the people you love and care about. When you’re driving to a new lake, it can be a bit of a challenge. You may not know the area and you may not know where you’re going. Chad comments about how navigating a new lake may require looking at your phone trying to figure out where you are. But, when you’ve been going to the same lake for years, you know the area and you know how to get back.  

When you’re on the way to the lake, you may have a certain spot that you look forward to. For some, it’s the water tower, for others, it’s the rooster farm. For others, it’s the movie playing on the DVD player. These little things can make a big difference when you’re on the way to the lake. 

Favorite Memories

When you’ve been to the lake for years, you may have a favorite memory. Holly describes how it was when a friend asked him to shave a “K” for his girlfriend’s name on his back. The same guy tried to do tricks on the slide and ended up hitting his head. Chad talks about the time his father-in-law helped him gain the respect of his son by whipping him around on the tube. Molley talks about how much she enjoys seeing the lake through the eyes of someone who’s never been on the lake.  These memories are all enjoyable, but it’s important to remember that safety comes first.  

One Piece of Advice for a New Boater

For Holly, it’s before you get out on the lake, it’s important to make sure you read the manual. Whether you’re in a boat, a pontoon, or a tube, it’s important to make sure you know the safety protocols. The last thing you want is for something to go wrong and for someone to get hurt. 

Josh suggest that you put the plug in, as well as a spare set of keys in case something goes wrong. Overall, it’s important to remember that reading the manual before boating is essential. It’s important to make sure you know the safety protocols and that you have the necessary supplies. Boating can be an amazing experience, but safety always comes first. 

Romantic Date Night on Boat

Holly reminds Josh about a romantic date night on their boat. Just imagine, you and your partner out on the lake, the stars shining above, and the cool night air on your skin. It’s a truly magical experience. Josh had the perfect plan. He brought a foam mattress to lay on, so they could look up at the stars. He also brought Prosecco and a charcuterie board for them to enjoy. 

If you’re looking for a romantic date night, a boat is the perfect place. You can take in the beauty of nature while spending quality time with your partner. It’s a great way to connect and create memories. 

EPISODE SPONSOR INFORMATION:

We’d like to thank today’s sponsor and encourage you to contact them for your Lake Cumberland real estate needs.

Walker Realty

Website: https://walker-realty.com/

Phone Number:  (270) 384-3661

That’s a wrap for this episode.  We’d like to thank our friends Holly and Josh for guest hosting with us.  We hope you found it helpful, insightful and maybe a little entertaining. 

Thanks for Listening!

If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider sharing it with your social media friends.  We hope to see you out there soon.  Until next time, here’s to warm weather and calm waters!

Don’t forget to subscribe!

Episode 22:  Welcome to Season 3 of Lake Life with Molley and Chad!  In this season, we’re going to discuss various lakes and why people like specific lakes.  In today’s episode, we interview Anna and Todd about Barren River Lake, in Kentucky.  Todd grew up on this lake.

Barren River Lake

Molley begins with some interesting facts.  Barren River Lake is in western Kentucky.  It occupies parts of Allen, Barren and Monroe Counties.  It’s actually a man-made lake.  Todd adds that it reaches 10,000 acres at summer pool.  It was built for flood control.  The US Army Corp of Engineers can raise or lower the level of the lake in an attempt to reduce the amount of water that could cause flooding after a severe storm.  In mid-October, the water level begins to be reduced, after the spring and summer rains have moved on.  At winter pool, it’s the water level is approximately 26’ lower that during the summertime. 

Marinas on Barren River Lake

According to Todd, there are currently 3 marinas available to boaters and the general public.  Todd wasn’t sure if Walnut Creek Marina was still open.  His favorite marina is The Narrows.

Todd and Anna Discuss How They Started their Lake Life Journey

Todd grew up in the area, but Anna didn’t have this experience growing up.  Todd began getting into boating with friends and families when he was young.  The lake was full of some fun Sunday memories.  Todd and Anna got married in 2001. 

Todd’s dad gave them his boat, a 1988 Dyna-Trak Fish & Ski.  It was the first boat they owned as a couple.  Anna comments that this was a new experience for her.  Chad had a similar experience, because he didn’t grow up around boating, either.

Anna describes trying to learn to trailer the boat with Todd.  The process seemed a bit overwhelming.  Now, she lets Todd and his dad handle it.  In 2007, they decided to buy a pontoon, given some of the issues they had around trailering the boat.  They’ve been able to simply dock the boat to make things easier.

Anna and Todd typically put the boat in the water around May and it stays there until October.  Once in a while, things don’t work out.  That’s when Todd mentions how they’ve learned to depend on the guys at the Barren River Boat Shop.  Todd’s good at breaking things and they’re good at fixing them!

Scheduling Lake Time

For Anna and Todd, it’s usually weekends and sometimes a 3-day weekend.  If they can get down for an entire week, it’s usually an entirely different experience.  Chad comments how Tuesdays and Wednesdays are terrific because there’s hardly anyone else out on the water.  That’s Anna’s favorite time.

Favorite Locations

They like to go tubing in the Beaver Creek area.  Barren River Lake also has several no-ski areas.  Molley explains why these exist on Barren.  Certain areas aren’t maintained, so there may be hazards, such as tree stumps and other items beneath the water.  These can pose a danger, so it’s safer simply to designate them as no-ski zones.

Molley and Chad have had some experiences in these areas and tell a brief story about how they’ve lost anchors.  By the way, they’re looking for show sponsors, so if manufacture or sell anchors, here’s your chance!

Todd admits he’s donated 2 anchors to the bottom of Barren River Lake.

Family Activities on Barren

Interestingly, Todd comments that they don’t see a lot of skiers on the lake.  His son, Cole, likes to wakeboard, kneeboard and tube with friends. 

Anna says Todd is always the driver when it comes to pulling tubers.  She enjoys riding more.  Todd refers to her as “The Admiral” because they don’t drive.  As a Pro-Tip, they’ve learned to limit the number of tubing sessions in a given day.  They like early mornings and later in the afternoon, instead of going all day long

The Current Boat

Anna and Todd currently have a 22’ Barletta tri-toon.  They still have their other boats and a couple of jet skis.  They built a lake house, which makes it much easier to have the boats and spend more time with them.

Experiences on other Lakes in Kentucky

Anna comments that they don’t take their boats to other lakes.  However, she’s been to Lake Cumberland, Lake Herrington (Harrodsburg area) and Norris Lake (Tennessee).

Todd has been to most of the lakes in Kentucky, with the exception of some of the ones in eastern Kentucky.  He’s been to Dale Hollow, Barkley, Kentucky Lake, Nolin, Green River Lake, Rough River Lake.  Growing up in Glasgow, Barren River Lake is home and he still has plenty of family there.

Molley grew up on Barren River Lake.  She recounts how her family used to campo at Barren River State Park, near Walnut Creek.  This was there Labor Day Weekend lake.

If You Won the Lottery, which Boat Would You Buy?

Anna says they actually love their current boat.  Barren River Lake isn’t a huge lake, so having a really big boat would be impractical.  He does like the “surf-type” boats.  Cole might enjoy surfing behind it.  They really like the tri-toon life.  Anna’s partial to the big lounger seat.  Chad and Molley talk about their pontoon, which also has the big lounger seat.  It was the main reason they bought the pontoon.

What’s Something You Know Now, that You Wish You’d Known Earlier?

Todd mentions how much he loves being able to dock the boat, instead of having to trailer it each time.  It’s so much easier and less stressful.  Chad comments on his experiences on the ramp.  There’s always “that guy.”  In fact, they did an entire episode called, “Don’t Be That Guy!”

Advice to New Boaters

Anna explains that before they built their lake house, they used to have a slip at the State Dock.  They would either stay at the lodge, or rent a small cabin.  Her advice is to understand that lake life is a commitment.  There’s a lot to it.  Todd agrees.  It can take up the time he might spend on other activities, but they really enjoy being on the water.  This is something to consider if your kids are into summer sports.  It’s going to be a challenge to balance all of it.

Todd mentions that their lake life has been through some transitions over the years.  They used to spend a lot more time on the lake, but their son has gotten involved in sports.  This has pushed them to make their time more impactful.  However, one of the fun things is having Cole and his friends come to the lake with them. 

Anna recounts how they love being able to have guests down to the lake.  It’s fun to see people enjoy new experiences.  Then again, she really enjoys those times when it’s just the three of them. 

Molley adds that there’s a huge benefit to having the kids with them.  They usually don’t have a good cell signal out there, so they’re forced to do something else besides being glued to their phone screens.  It’s amazing how many great conversations suddenly occur.

Closing Comments about Barren River Lake

Todd admits this particular area is a well-kept secret.  It’s a smaller lake, but it’s almost twice the size of Nolin, Green River Lake and others.  Glasgow is close and offers restaurants and other attractions.  Bowling Green is fairly close.  It’s only a 1.5 hour road trip from Louisville. 

Anna recommends catching a sunset near the dam.  It’s worth it.

Their favorite boat launch is Port Oliver.  It’s fairly new and really wide.  His dad says it the best in Kentucky. 

Todd comments the lunches at The Narrows Marina are terrific.  Get there early!

That’s a wrap for this episode.  We’d like to thank our friends Anna and Todd for guest hosting with us.  We hope you found it helpful, insightful and maybe a little entertaining. 

 

EPISODE SPONSOR INFORMATION:

We’d like to thank today’s sponsor and encourage you to contact them for your insurance needs. 

The Alan Hall Agency

Website:  https://www.alanhallagency.com/

Phone Number:  (502) 345-9440

Thanks for Listening!

If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider sharing it with your social media friends.  We hope to see you out there soon.  Until next time, here’s to warm weather and calm waters!

 

Don’t forget to subscribe!

Episode 17:  In this episode, Molley and Chad speak with Jim and Becky Norris about what got them started with lake life.  They also discuss the joy they get from watching friends and family enjoy the lake.  It’s a definite theme all of us love.  The episode was recorded in the lake house at Cumberland.

What started the Lake Life for Jim and Becky?

Jim begins by explaining how Becky and her friends introduced him to it at Rough River.  Just like Chad, he married into it.  Becky comments that her high school friend had a boat and they spent a lot of time on the water with Theresa and Gary.  They camped and learn a lot about boating from them. The four of them spent time at Rough River, Barron River Lake and Green River Lake. 

Jim got his first ski lesson at Rough River behind a Checkmate boat.  It was a powerful boat to use for skiing in the early 80’s.

What was the first boat they bought?

In 1986, they visited a boat show and bought a 19’ Bayliner with a V-8 for their wedding present.  They kept it for 18 years.  The boat is still in the family.  It’s had multiple owners, but it still ripping across the water.  Molley remembers how everyone had to sit upfront in that boat when someone was trying to slalom, so the boat would plane out faster. 

Later, they purchased a 1994, 24’ Sea Ray.  His son’s family still has that boat.  They wanted a longer boat for a smoother ride.  Today, Jim and Becky have a 2009 277 Islander. 

Have they always been weekend warriors?

Jim remembers how they’d head to Taylorsville Lake, after work on a Tuesday or during the week.  But most of the time, it was a weekend activity for both boating and camping. 

What are the names of the lakes they’ve visited?

Becky recalls they used to go to Center Hill Lake for camping and house boating.  In addition to Barren and Green, they’ve also been to Dale Hollow Lake, and Nolin Lake.  They want to visit Norris Lake.  Jim and his brother have fished on Kentucky Lake. 

Becky describes her unplanned trip down to rescue Jim, after one of his trips to Kentucky Lake.  Shout out to John Deere for pulling 2 trucks and a Bayliner that night!

What they’re favorite lake, so far?

Jim says his favorite is Lake Cumberland, followed by Center Hill and Green.  Becky agrees that Cumberland has her heart.  Her favorite spot is night boating at the dam.  Jim talks about when they had a house boat and would pull up to Low Gap Island and start a campfire on the beach.

What advice would they share with someone thinking about buying a boat? 

Jim starts by saying, “Pay Attention.”  There’s a lot to learn, so get to know your checklists.  Becky also says you can learn a lot by being a passenger.  Take advantage of the opportunity to try driving or other boating activities.

What’s their favorite memory or trip involving the lake?

Becky says they’ve been boating since 1986, so there are a lot of memories.  Returning from their cruise to join their friends at the lake is a special memory for her.  She also recounts seeing her daughter get up on skis for the first time.  She also remembers their son Bradley tubing.  Now, it’s about watching the grandkids developing a love of the water.

Jim says he can take you to the exact spot Leslie got up for the first time.  She was only 7 or 8 years old.  He also remembers the first time she was able to slalom.

Chad talks about how special it is to watch the kids conquering those challenges and the expressions on their faces when they finally do it.

Jim talks about the first-time Bradley got air while tubing.  Molley also talks about how her kids grew up differently, especially when it came to skiing.  Some of them take to it better than others.

Is there something they wished they’d known when they were just getting started?

Jim wishes he’d realized how important the time spent with friends would become.  Those are terrific memories, so take advantage of it while you can.  You have to make the best of each opportunity. 

Becky says to simply know that “S&%# Happens.”  In the beginning, there’s a lot of stress and anxiety.  It’s all okay.  Just be patient, breathe and enjoy it.

Who has which job at the boat ramp?

Becky says Jim drives the truck and trailer, while she handles unloading and trailering the boat.  It’s important to make sure each of you knows your specific job.  Jim had some experience backing trailers, so he naturally handled that part.  Becky mentions the people they were usually with had the same designations.

Molley talks about how she struggled on the Jamestown ramp with the pontoon, in the early days.

If they win the lottery, what kind of boat would they buy?

Becky says she wants to focus on comfort.  She’d like a longer boat with an open bow.  It’s not about speed for her.  She does like the 35’ Sea Ray model.  Jim is also about comfort.  Getting in and out of the boat is important.  He’s also looking for a smooth ride.  He likes the open bow boats. 

Molley, Chad, Jim and Becky agree that we’ve made things complicated.  It seemed simpler back in the day.  Lake Life is about hanging out with good friends and family.  Just focus on having a good time.

What is their least favorite thing about boating?

For Jim and Becky, it’s the ramp, followed by inconsiderate boaters (especially when you’re tied up).  Floating in a cove is a great way to relax, but when people forget about the wakes, it can ruin the moment. 

Molley comments that if a boater causes a wake in a no-wake zone, they are responsible for the damage that make result from the wake.  Chad agrees and talks about how he handles it.

Jim discusses how boaters should be more considerate.  Items can get washed off the deck of a smaller craft.  Again, pay attention if your boating near other boats.

Do you prefer boating as a couple or with a boat full of friends?

Jim enjoys sharing the moments with different groups of people, although the autumn is a great time to get out as a couple to simply enjoy the day.  Becky enjoys the companionship of having a group of people. 

Chad talks about how he and Molley really look forward to spending some time together, as a couple, on the water.  They love having friends down, but it’s nice to not have to worry about everyone else.  Molley explains how they used to have a lot of people down to the lake house.  Now, they try to reserve specific weekends for family-time or just couple-time.

Chad reminds everyone that not all of your friends will get along with all of your friends.  It’s important to put together the right group. 

The Camper Jim’s Handbook

Molley introduces how this was a part of how she grew up.  Jim says it’s a collection of tips and tricks.  One of the final thoughts in the handbook is to simply get a room or a lake house.  That was the result of a 4-day camping experience in the rain.    

We’d like to thank Jim and Becky Norris joining us for this episode.  They’ve been long-time, family friends and conversations with them always bring back some great memories.  Is that what Lake Life is really about? 

That’s a wrap for this episode.  We hope you found it helpful, insightful and maybe a little entertaining. 

Thanks for Listening!

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