More progress... siding!

Crazy geese

Very foggy and frosty at 8:00 this morning, but the sun is now shining, and it is warming up. Several folks are out mistletoe hunting... and fishing! I think the geese are the only ones swimming. Hope you're enjoying your Saturday, too.

More progress

We have doors and windows, shingles and a sidewalk!

So long, November!

Happy *almost December*, folks! Starting tomorrow (Dec. 1 ) we are officially on winter hours, which means we will be open from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays only (weather permitting) through February. However, we will be happy to make arrangements to meet you here at any other time. Just call in advance and leave a message. (We will be pumping gas all winter.) Cheers!

Update

As you can see from the pictures below, our project is coming right along. We have shingles on the roof, and the deck is on the upper level. It has a killer lake view! Especially right now with the leaves falling off the trees. It was so foggy yesterday we couldn't see the lake, so I didn't snap any pictures of the view. But, I will try to do that in the next few days...

December is quickly approaching, which means we'll be switching to our "winter hours" until the first of March. For now, we are planning to be open from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays only (weather permitting), starting Dec. 3., and by appointment any other day of the week (just call ahead, and we'll be happy to meet you down here at any other time). That means this is our last full week to be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you need anything or have any questions, please do not hesitate to call: 417-679-3676.

Have a happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

A roof overhead

New resort at Pontiac Cove

Level 2 walls are up! It's beginning to look like something, eh?

More progress and change of hours

We have a floor!

NEW HOURS: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through November. Cheers!

Progress

The walls have been poured for the lower level of our new resort. There will be three units on this level, and three units on an upper level. It's coming right along!

It has a lake view! (Look between the trees on the upper left side of the photo.)

Hallelujah!

The lake level is finally back to normal! Well, close enough. It's 656.14, which is the seasonal pool level. "Normal" pool is 654. At least we have the lower road back. And we owe a HUGE thank you to volunteers from the Pontiac/Price VFD for washing all the muck off the road.

Happy Saturday!

It's gorgeous out there. Enjoy it!

Breaking Ground

In case you haven't heard, we are starting construction on a new resort in Pontiac - planning to be open in May 2012. See photo above: the road on the left is the road that goes into the park (from Highway W). The first building will be located on the north side of the road (location shown above on the right side of the photo). Phase 1 includes a two-story building with six units - three up and three down. Each unit will have a kitchen, dining and living area, bathroom, separate bedroom and a patio (for the lower level) or balcony (upper level). The building will be within walking distance of the park, Just Jackie's and Pontiac Cove Marina. We are very excited about this new project and will let you know when we begin taking reservations. If you have any questions, please call us at 417-679-3676 (ask for Matt or Jabet) or email info@pontiaccove.com. Cheers!

Lake Cleanup THIS WEEKEND!

Sorry for the short notice, but if you're in Pontiac this weekend and want to participate in the Lake Cleanup, simply swing by the dock and pick up trash bags and t-shirts and have at it! This is a Corps of Engineers-sponsored cleanup. They have it every year - it's called the Great Arkansas Cleanup. We technically are not in Arkansas, but we're pretty darn close, and we used to participate in their cleanup years ago. Since then, PCM has hosted its own cleanup in years past, with a picnic afterward. We're not doing that this year, so if you want to help clean up the lake, this is the weekend to do it! When you're finished, you can drop your bags at the launch ramp, and the Corps will pick them up. We're open from 7 to 7 this Saturday. Pick up bags and t-shirts (while they last) anytime during the day. Cheers!

Happy Labor Day weekend/Happy FIRST birthday, Lola!

In case you're wondering why I haven't kept up with the blog as much this year... it's all HER fault (see above). That's my daughter, Lola. Some of you remember she was born on the Friday of Labor Day weekend last year - a BIG surprise to us, as she was 26 days early! Happy, healthy and ready to see the world. So, Matt and I weren't around last Labor Day weekend - we spent it in the hospital! Today is Lola's birthday. It's too bad she can't pump gas or count minnows (maybe next year). I hope you all have a fun and safe Labor Day weekend - I will be seeing you this year! Cheers!

The hours they are a changin'

Labor Day weekend is upon us, and for many folks it's the last big hurrah of summer. The marina hours will shorten through the week starting next week. We will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Thursday; 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday; 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday. The weekend hours will get shorter later in the month.

We'll be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily in October; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily in November. We will be closed December, January and February; however, we will be available to pump gas or accept payment for bills via appointment. Just call ahead, and we'll be glad to meet you here anytime during the winter.

Just Jackie's hours will also change after this weekend. Starting next week the restaurant will be open from 3 to 10 p.m. Friday; 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday (kitchen closes at 5 on Sunday). Closed Monday to Thursday.

Have a fun and safe Labor Day weekend, everyone!

19 feet to go...

The parking area at the 800 dock is getting larger

 

Look, we got our road back!

20 feet to go...

Still about 20 feet above normal pool, but at least we're about to see the upper road again. It's been a looooong time since we made that loop!

Lake level update

Today's lake level is 677.0. It's steadily dropping now - about 6 inches per day. We still have about 23 feet to go. At this rate we should be back to normal pool by the end of September. Anyone want to try to predict the day?

This is what 679.8 looks like

The lake is finally starting to drop; it's still about 25 feet above normal. Below, you can see the 'upper' road to the marina is getting closer to being out of the water

 A view out toward the main lake; this tree makes it look like fall!

 This is the back of the cove, at the bottom of the road that cuts over to the 800 dock; yes, we meant to let this dock end up on shore - it's slated to be torn down as soon as we have time to do it

Is your last name Hicks? Are you missing a sign? This is lying on the side of the road in the park...

 A view of the dock, looking out toward the main lake. Again, you can see the top road is starting to show!

Under construction

I'm working on a new design for the blog... just fyi.

Finally some relief in the forecast...

Check this out!

Look at the weather forecast for next week. Lows in the 60s?? It's a cold front!

Maybe this will cool you off...

July showers!

We finally got some relief from the heat and drought over the weekend. We had a couple nice little showers on Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning. Much needed! (Photo by April Luna)

Recognize this guy?

That's Captain Morgan, circa 1976, standing in front of what is now called the '100 dock' - the first dock in the back of the cove. Sue Ann Luna Jones, Ozark County Times editor, sent this to me.

Debris Cleanup

Crews have been cleaning up debris along the shoreline in the park this week. It looks great! We have tried to keep the area around our walkway free and clear of debris as the lake has receded, but there were still lots of little piles here and there. Thank you, Corps of Engineers, for sending in the cleanup crew! P. Cove is looking mighty swell these days.

Cruiser Dock

Hi all! We're planning to build a new dock for larger boats later this year. Slips will be covered, 14x36, with water and electric. If this sounds like something you might be interested in, please e-mail me at info@pontiaccove.com for more information, or call 417-679-3676 and ask to speak with Matt or Jabet.

Boat parking for Just Jackie's

In case you didn't already know this... PCM provides free, short-term parking for Just Jackie's customers. Anyone is welcome to boat up for breakfast, lunch or dinner, 7 days per week at Just Jackie's - the restaurant by the marina. Because of the high water this summer we don't exactly have a designated place for restaurant parking, but, if you check in with us each time we'll let you know where to park. You can even call when you reach the breakwater if you don't want to come in to the fuel dock. Our number is 417-679-3676. Cheers, and happy boating!

Helloooooo!

Greetings! If you're in Pontiac (and in case you're wondering)... yep, that was rain that fell from the sky Thursday afternoon. We didn't get a whole lot, but it was enough to settle the dust at least for now. It's amazing how Mother Nature only seems to bring it (weather, that is) in extremes these days - a bazillion inches of rain in the spring (which equaled an extra 42 feet of water in the lake), then ZERO rain drops for several weeks, which resulted in very dry conditions this summer. So, a little afternoon shower was welcomed with open arms. I drove down to the dock just as it began to really pour, and instead of waiting in my car for it to pass, I walked in and soaked up a few drops myself.

I got gently scolded earlier today about not posting often enough on the blog this summer. I know, I know, and I apologize. I get caught up in the day-to-day stuff down here, and I forget that there are lots of folks (like you, perhaps?) who don't live here all the time and want to know what's going on.

The lake is sloooooowly dropping. It's in the 687 range now. The fireworks were wonderful - especially considering the high water conditions and the ferocious wind that blew up just as they were about to set them off. As always, a big THANK YOU to everyone who donates money, time and effort to make the fireworks happen.

We also had a great party in the park before the fireworks. It was a hit! We even ran out of food, and I'm very sorry if you didn't get to eat - it was delicous. Thank you, Jasper, for providing and cooking all of the meat. We'll be doing it again next year!

Several local musicians (and a few out-of-town visitors) played music at the park. They were all really good, and we appreciate them sharing their time and talent with us! Here are a few of them...

(above) Robert Voss

Iron Mike Norton

Rachel (Craig Mincke's niece)

Craig Mincke

Oddly enough, I didn't get a good picture of Mike Mac and the Queen City Cats. They started the evening and provided all the sound equipment. A HUGE thanks to Mike and crew for always being at these events and playing music. We appreciate him so much.

Pontiac Fireworks Tonight!

Don't miss THE BEST fireworks display on Bull Shoals Lake! (Okay, maybe we're a little biased.) No really, they're going to be awesome - high water and all! The fireworks start shortly after dark (9 or so). And join us in the park from 6 to 8 p.m. for FREE music by some rockin' local musicians and FREE food - all we ask is that you make a small contribution to next year's fireworks (if you so desire). We hope to see you in Pontiac tonight - there's no better place to be. Tonight's gonna be a good night!

BroStock 2011

Sorry for the short notice, but I just found out... BroStock is THIS WEEKEND on Bull Shoals Lake. Click here for the details: http://www.liquidforce.com/brostock11-info.html

July 3rd pre-fireworks party update

As you read in the previous post, there will be live music in the Pontiac park from 6 to 8 p.m. July 3, before the fireworks over the lake. Musicians include Iron Mike Norton, Mike MacPherson (Queen City Kats), Craig Mincke, Robert Voss and more. Also, we'll be serving food - all of it prepared and donated by local folks. Please stop by for music, food and fun before you head to your favorite spot to watch the fireworks! We'll also be selling glow necklaces, beads, koozies and cups to raise money for next year's fireworks. See you there!

July 3: Summer Music Jubilee

Join us on Sunday, July 3, at the Pontiac park for music, food and a whole lotta fun before the fireworks light up the sky over Bull Shoals Lake in Pontiac. This year, several local musicians (and a few visitors, too) will be jamming in the park from 6 to 8 p.m. Plan to stop by after you get off the lake, grab some food and listen to some great music before heading out to your favorite spot to watch the fireworks. The music is free, and food sales will go toward next year's fireworks. We'll also have glow necklaces, beads, koozies, cups and more. We hope to see you there!

What's happening this week...

Just a quick reminder that Jackie is celebrating 10 years at Pontiac Cove with a big party on Saturday night - live music, free appetizers and door prizes, $10 bottomless cups and more. Be there or be square.

Fishing has been pretty good for some of the locals lately. One in particular was spotted cleaning a limit of bass and walleye at the cleaning table yesterday. Not bad for a day's work.

The lake is slowing going down. It's still about 38 feet high, but it's business as usual at Pontiac Cove. The campground is open and all docks are accessible. And, of course, we are selling fuel.

We still have a few boats and boat slips available for the July 4th holiday weekend - give us a call to make a reservation. 417-679-3676

Cheers!

Highway W gets a makeover!

It's Party Time!

Just Jackie's is celebrating 10 years at Pontiac Cove this year. To show her appreciation, Jackie is hosting an anniversary party Saturday, June 11. She'll be giving away door prizes, free appetizers and offering $10 bottomless cups of beer - all you can drink, all night! Iron Mike Norton will play from 5 to 9 p.m. If you have questions about the party, call 417-679-2593. Just Jackie's is open 7 days a week, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. all summer long. Cheers!

Spearfishing Tournament, June 18

Just a quick FYI... the annual Pontiac Spearfishing Tournament will be Saturday, June 18. Take-off at 8 a.m. from the marina. Weigh-in from 1 to 3 p.m. at a location to be determined - the lake is 40 feet high right now, so we'll have to see where it is in three weeks! Absolutely NO late exceptions will be made at weigh-in. If you're not in by 3 p.m., you'll be disqualified. (Don't make me do that to anyone.) Be five minutes early, and you will make me very happy. :)

Entry fee is $25 per diver - 100% payback. Categories are as follows: first, second and third place catfish; first, second and third place rough fish; biggest walleye. Cash prizes and door prizes will be handed out on the deck at Just Jackie's starting at about 4:30 p.m.

Questions? Call 417-679-3676. Fins up!

The view from Just Jackie's deck! Pizza is closer than ever these days...

Open for business!

Just in case you have heard otherwise, we are open for business, 7 days per week. We have fuel, and all of our docks are accessible. The campground is open as well. You can launch a boat here, and the launch fees have been suspended until further notice. We still have boat rentals and nightly slip rentals available for Memorial weekend - coming up next week! So, give us a call! 417-679-3676 Cheers!

Blessing of the Fleet this Saturday!

Join us at 2 p.m. Saturday for the 6th Annual Blessing of the Fleet. Parade of boats and blessing ceremony starts at 2 p.m. Boats should gather outside the breakwater prior to 2 p.m. As always we'll have a picnic in the park afterward - starting around 4:30 p.m. We'll have a fish fry and charge by the plate. We'll also be selling souvenir Pontiac Fireworks cups for beer and Blessing of the Fleet t-shirts. Live music will be provided by several local musicians - the first in a new series called the Pontiac Summer Music Jubilee. The weather forecast is for nearly 80 degrees and sunny! Come on down!

Nice Catch!

This 41-pound striper was caught by Andy Lohr (son of Steve Lohr - Lohr Distributing in St. Louis) at 7:40 a.m. April 29 on 6 lb test line. It took 1 hour and 20 minutes to bring in the fish. Bill Allen (Pontiac) was guiding.

In case you're wondering what that big, bright circle is in the sky... it's the SUN!

THURSDAY MORNING

Cheer up, people!

Please keep in mind no matter how high the water gets, Pontiac Cove Marina will always be accessible. All the campsites at the Pontiac campground will remain above water. Just Jackie's restaurant will be accessible. And launching will always be open. We've been there, done that, in 2008. The fun will go on!

Lake level update

WEDNESDAY MORNING

According to the lake level forecast posted yesterday, we're at 675 this morning - four feet higher than yesterday morning, and 21 feet above normal pool. As of yesterday the Corps predicted Bull Shoals Lake would crest at 685 on May 1 (this Sunday). However, it does state at the top of the page that "INDICATED FORECAST ELEVATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE". We had more rain last night, and more is predicted for today, so, yep, the forecast will likely change. I'll keep you posted.

Lake level update

The lake level is currently about 671 and rising (17 feet above normal pool). It was at normal pool on Friday (just four days ago). The good news is: no rain in the forecast for today! More rain tomorrow; but, it's supposed to be dry, sunny and 70s on Thursday and Friday. Too little, too late?

SUNDAY MORNING


MONDAY MORNING


TUESDAY MORNING

Rain, rain, GO AWAY!

Well, folks. We aren't dry anymore. The rain is relentless, and the lake is on the rise... fast. It has risen about 8 feet since yesterday morning, and it's still going. The USACE predicts another 15 feet by May 5, according to the lake level forecast, which may or may not be accurate. It all depends on how much more rain we get, of course. The good news is that the weather forecast predicts Tuesday, Thursday and Friday will be mostly dry, with more rain just on Wednesday this week. I'll try to keep you updated and post pictures soon.

Verne D. Cubbage Tournament Results

First Place: Russ Silvio (Isabella, Mo.) and Jerry Cubbage (Wildwood, Mo.), 14.48 pounds ($750); Big Bass - 4.64 pounds ($250)




Second Place: Brandon Williams (Cape Girardeau, Mo.) and Brad Welsh (Festus, Mo.), 13.54 pounds ($500)





Third Place: Reggie Stanifer (Ava, Mo.) and Steve Heinlein (Ava, Mo.), 13.31 pounds ($380)





Fourth Place: Tommy Skinner (Protem, Mo.) and Bobby Comstock (Protem, Mo.), 12.38 pounds ($260)





Fifth Place: Mark Sanders (Ava, Mo.) and Ronnie Curry (Ava, Mo.), 12.32 pounds ($110)






Young fishermen: Gavin Broderick (Gainesville, Mo.) and Trey Schroeder (Crestwood, Mo.) (not pictured: Caleb Hathcock, Washington, Mo.)

Verne Cubbage Tourney

Just a few of the boats in the tournament this morning, waiting to take off. We had 25 boats. Weigh-in is at 3:30 p.m. on the 500 dock. Come down and watch!

Fishing is Good

It has been a good year for fishing (and catching!) on Bull Shoals Lake this spring. We've been seeing more big bass come out of the lake than we have in recent years. Matt caught a limit of bass yesterday - these two both weighed 5 lbs, 6 oz. He also had a 5-pounder, one that was nearly 4 pounds and two smaller fish. He released all the big ones after the photo was taken.