Ep:20/28 "Pale Catfish and Reluctant Loners" (The Shanty Boat Beagle Adventure)

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Ep: 21/28 here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/e3nQgIeZg9aXnLs

[@donnam4260]

I look at your freedom …your adventurous travels … and I wonder if you have any idea how much joy you bring to those of us trapped at working a job that keeps us in one place 😎 Thank you for all of it …. I believe if you keep living your life , and enjoying your life … you will be surprised at what or who the Lord puts in you path …. 💃🏻💃🏻💃🏻💃🏻

[@backwatersandbackroads]

I hope so Donna. It would be great to find a true compatible partner. I'll do it with the beagle, but someone to share what I think is amazing experiences would be a blessing

[@jimmarplediy2024]

We just bought a Lil' Hobo houseboat that we're remodeling for next spring. This is my second houseboat and I prefer the smaller boats for tooling around. I actually bought my first houseboat to have a cheap place to live close to work and fell in love with the lifestyle. Now I'm retired and looking forward to exploring and camping on the boat. I see where there are 22,000 views of this video so you're not really a loner if you are traveling with 22,000 people including me. I am 22,871 or comment 217.

[@jacktaylor1030]

The sad fact of today is most people are only your friend if you are buying. You could get anyone to travel with you as long as you paid their way, you don't need friends like that, I don't. The statement, " I'm flying, if your buying" is sadly so true today. You worked hard all your life, not to support some deadbeat, there are to many of those types in this day and age. Just enjoy your personal serenity, and the good folks you meet on your journeys. To hell with what other people may think of you.

[@donferguson2495]

Another good one. I think most people enjoy the walk around the small towns and the river shots. Or at least I do. Keep up the good job.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Hi Don, so it's not church and wall painting overload?? Lol ;) I think the interviews with interesting people is where it's most at ,)

[@mpbuilders1]

There is a nice Corp of Engineer campground just down from Bobby's and before you go thru the Coffeeville lock.The host there are really nice and it would be a good place to shower and rest up. 4 miles to a small town with a gas station and a Dollar General. 100 miles to Mobile.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Howdy, I think that's the campground I parked at. Nice folks. Volunteers who get to stay for free by running the booth and emptying garages. It was a little sad passing through coffeeville and knowing it was the last one :(

[@ronaldharris6569]

A scooter for grocery runs and a good pup to watch the boat, sounds like the adventure of a lifetime

[@backwatersandbackroads]

It was a life changing adventure and I can't wait to get out there again with the barge. Please stick around for that eh ;)

[@ronaldharris6569]

@@backwatersandbackroads I will do that consider my subscribed

[@jbrat1967]

Stumbled on this old one. Really enjoyed. I heard a term recently that I kinda like .... “hopeful agnostic”

[@222dyan]

Thank you so much for the philosophical chat. I can so relate to everything you said. You have much depth and insight, which I find rare in men, so kudos to you. I too am mostly a loner and much of it is rooted in my childhood as well, so I totally understand. I've had to take off and explore on my own as well, but it's very empowering to do. Been exploring in different campers mostly. I lived in a motorhome and traveled the country for 4 years with my Siberian Husky following the seasons, that was a cool experience. But yeah, I hear you, it is hard to find others with similar interests and Lifestyles regardless of gender. I've never been a 9:00 to 5:00 gal either and live a simple life close to Nature. Just so you know, you're not alone in all of that. Thanks again for the great video and chat. I see this is an older one. Hope our paths get to cross sometime, it's rare to find a kindred soul. 😊☀️☮️🛥🌎

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Our paths should cross ;)

[@goatgate3815]

Your monolog on accepting being alone while caring to have a compatible mate was well stated 👍

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Thank you for understanding that.

[@phillippmorris4109]

thanks for another detailed location information and the slow pace squirrels,birds and front row beached on the river peace, quiet and time are precious enjoyment so relaxing not to have an appointment book guitar would be a great subastitiuon for companionship besides the begal they have them at walmarts too too many people have perpensity to consume stuff great to see your adventures and obstacles and how you tackle them realistic looking forward to more funfilled adventure videos with coffee breaks have a safe and wonderful day and a better tommorow

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Hi Phillip, thanks for the feedback. There IS a lot of piece and quiet out here. The world sure doesn't feel crowded out here on the rivers. The barges are like gentle giants (just stay out of their way) ;)

[@everchevy]

Just be you. Other peoples loss that they aren't getting to go on your adventures. I can't wait to get on some of my longer trips as I may be alone on them but looking forward to meeting people along the way. Right there with you bud.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

That's it and you nailed it perfect. Why couldn't I just say that and skip the 16 minutes! Lol ,)

[@strawdog2831]

love the rant. i can relate , the solitude needs a trade-off i am lonely in a crowd~

[@seanmcgivney7631]

Loved it! I plan on buying a Kymco super 8 150x this spring when the farm work picks up. I miss riding scoots, they are therapy! I have done the same with having baths in lakes, etc. Ditto on a lot you said!

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Sean, seriously...let's put a scooter Adventure together ,) how's the hip recovery going?

[@allsortsofinterests1]

Just coming to these realizations myself at 43... Singing my song.

[@yamabiru4553]

Very nice. I’m a reluctant loner as well. 3 kids, married 30 years.

[@Rick_Sanchez_C137_]

Better to be in good company by yourself than in any bad company….

[@jbrat1967]

Enjoy your ramblings. Agreed, I always figured that if people had a part in passing down stories/ beliefs, those stories and beliefs are probably pretty imperfect. That’s not to say that the generations of the past and what they have learned should be discounted. ... really enjoy your stuff.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Hi Brat, I think we've lost mentorship and (yes) passing down wisdom from generation to generation. I know my family its "everyone for themselves!!" From birth. Babies aren't even allowed to cry! Lol. Thanks for watching and thanks again for bringing Stobe into my life.

[@mikenorris5174]

I am having a great time watching your journey, and I would not miss it for the world! Thank You very much for sharing, be safe! "Ten Nails"

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Thank you :) I'm working on the mobile bay episode, then a break for a couple weeks for Christmas travel, then back on the shanty and intercoastal. ;)

[@FradyKatt]

It amazing we are just alike lol I cant wait to do the tenn river. I have my ct 90 honda i cruz fire trails on too.

[@marciablack8523]

Gee if I was on a trip like this maybe I could be a fisherman since I am not a good one now. A musical instrument would have been a good idea and time to learn it. Great advise. I love the ending. Ha ha. Keep on smiling at life. Thanks for sharing. Barkkkkk. I want to be in that great weather and the calm reflecting waters are beautiful. Enjoy.

[@Kathy-ug1jj]

Oh, you sound like huckleberry finn. Enjoy your adventures. I do and I would love to meet you.😊😊🎉

[@unclefuzzy2485]

Best episode yet. More personable. Living the dream. I do the 9 to 5 and absolutely hate it. I have a kid and child support so stuck. I am buying a inflatable dingy to take trips down rivers to the gulf one week at a time on vacation. Camp on spoils islands where I can. Look up spoils islands along the way once u get to the gulf. Free camping and hangout spots to anchor. Working towards off grid. Did pay a house off so there is that. Long process but not much longer. Thanks for the personal insight.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Hi Fuzzy, thanks for taking the time to give me some feedback. I actually have some of the same "stuck" you mention, but I don't talk about it much here. I made some bad choices, which means I have no choice but to keep life simple. I think things are going to get really really restricted in the near future unfortunately.

[@jimrhoads9810]

another great vid thank you.....................

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Thanks Jim! ;)

[@gregmueller2265]

Just enjoy life and what you do !!! All that matters

[@pwb0511]

Really enjoyed this, especially your serious expressions about aloneness. Just consider this, there are many of us with mates who are still lonely although this should never had happened. I am guessing most of us would love to do what your doing and just aren’t very adventurous.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

I appreciate your serious comment and listening. I've always struggled with loneliness, since I was a child. I've gotten better at it, and in some ways its easier than being around most people. Thank you for finding my channel. Plesse stick around. More adventures will happen

[@burtontile]

Your very inspirational... Loving your video's..👍

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Thank you sir! Welcome. We're not am easy channel to find ;)

[@DeanFamilyAcres]

Sent you an email about your mini-rant. Appreciate all that you do and share on this channel!

[@backwatersandbackroads]

I'll look for it :)

[@larrycortner6321]

Thanks for the video its really interesting. I would.like to do that sometime but not that far of a adventure.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Hi Larry, if you're up to it...check out the other episodes, and subscribe :)

[@thesamsons9683]

Nuns are red cans are green. Best job in the CG. Love your videos thanks

[@deadsoul6452]

Your rant made me think of the song “Loner” by Ekoostik Hookah. Suffice it to say, I can relate. Onward

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Hi John, I'm looking up that song now ;) thanks for bringing it to my attention

[@deadsoul6452]

Let me know what you think. Enjoy! Btw, I hope this is the first of many adventures you share on KZbin. For instance, I like the idea of the epic scooter journey you proposed. I think you are rapidly rounding into form, and the format and variety of content is great. Keep up the good work. I will also add that I am of a similar vintage, and I have adopted what I interpret from your rant is a somewhat similar philosophy of life. Time waits for no man. Adventure awaits. Follow your path. If it is meant to be it will be.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

@@deadsoul6452 hi John, I just read the lyrics, I need to go find the song now. Sounds like a song from the 60s? I can relate. ,)

[@deadsoul6452]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/q5-ndY2XZrB2nNE

[@RichTravel1010]

I lived your life as a child on the river. I wish I could return to those days.......

[@nadezhdaponomareva1988]

Funny man love your videos. Thank you injoying your videos. Lovely dog as well.

[@robertmyers4155]

It’s great that you can be honest with yourself being a loner. I have become one also as I have gotten older. It’s great to understand it as you seem to have as I had. I’m working on my trailerable houseboat as well!

[@backwatersandbackroads]

The reluctant loner! ;) I love hearing people building shanty boats. It's getting more and more popular lately

[@eccrusr]

Man, it's all good, you have the freedom to do what you want and if you get near Texas, I'll go on a trip with you, your shanty on pontoons is an awesome idea. I'm going to start looking for an old pontoon to build my shanty.

[@maggieward1892]

Never seen a catfish that white and I’ve seen my share. Eaten my share too. Love em fresh caught. Ya only the big ones are worth the work. Round these parts the mud catfish are most common very fishy taste at times almost off putting. I really like the filets off a blue catfish which is mostly whiteish with blue shading. Very tender and tasty. Catfish is typically breaded with seasoning often deep fried. Different taste from pan fried like in butter no breading.

[@IntheBlood67]

Coul you tell me the name of that Nautical Pilot Guide you were referencing? I can't seem to find it on Ebay and it looks like it is full of treasures and intell!?

[@IntheBlood67]

I finally found it! Too Expensive!! 2005 was cheap but the WORLD has turned since Covid, but would be a great history book of Nostalgia!

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Are you thinking the great loop guide Sargint?

[@IntheBlood67]

@@backwatersandbackroads I Finally saw a Quimbys Cruising Guide by squinting at the screen.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

@@IntheBlood67 that's it! :)

[@PidasianHippie]

Have you talked about your guide book in the past? If not, I would be interested in seeing an overview of it. Great video. I enjoyed your"rant". To be honest, I was as lonely if not more lonely when I was married. If that person doesn't communicate with you or want to get out and do things, you are stuck there or have to answer questions about where you are going. I also learned a long time ago that if I wanted to do something, 9 times out of 10 (and probably more than that), I would just have to make the leap and do it on my own. Several years ago I read a book that changed my life. It was "Your Money or Your Life" by Vicki Robin. In it she offers the premise that we are giving up our time or life force to get the money to buy the "things" that we think we need. If you step back and look at how much of your "life force" you are giving up for those things, the things become much less desirable. I highly recommend the book as a reads while you are on your trip.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Hey you, I looked up that book online and read some popular exerts from it. A best seller ar one time. Reminds me of that song I mentioned "bet your life" about trading your life for (fill in the blank) oh how to find that freedom lover that will walk (or float) along side you, instead of dragging the anchor!

[@PidasianHippie]

@@backwatersandbackroads It is exactly like that song. I hope you do find that freedom lover out there. Look at the number of single female van dwellers out there. Not all women want to sit at home and bake cookies.

[@FainTMako]

Hey man, just now making it to your videos. I gotta say.. I really appreciate the talks and honesty. The whole loaner conversation really hit me and I just wanted to say that you may be a loaner and might not like it but you have an interesting perspective and clearly have many stories. Keep it up man!

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Thanks for saying that. Reluctant loner club ;) stick around, The Beagle Barge Beagle Adventure coming up...

[@markcreed9]

came across your channel a couple of days ago and working my way through the videos. Loved your rant. I'm a loner myself, though I wouldn't say reluctant. A lot of people can not understand that you can be happy with your own company. Though I sometimes feel lonely, the thought of someone else shaping how I live always worries me.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Hi Mark, it's taken me many years to not feel lonely when alone for long periods of time. Something changed with me, and now I like it. I also like having good company, and will take it if given a choice, but the days of waiting around for someone to join me out in the world are over. Plus there's plenty of other "loners" out there to cross paths with ;) thanks for coming across not channel. I'm always looking for constructive feedback. I'm also working on my editing. ;)

[@Rick_Sanchez_C137_]

Keep doing what you’re doing, I planned on doing lots more adventures after retiring, but here I am approaching early retirement and already crippled and in need of a doctor/hospital/ER on an almost quarterly basis… go adventure, while you can…. I know why we’re here….. it’s beautiful here, enjoy it….. and contribute to the beauty when/where/how you can….

[@backwatersandbackroads]

I'm sorry to hear that. Yes, I agree...look around while you can! Life flies by so fast. I hope your health improves and you get a chance to float the rivers.

[@Rick_Sanchez_C137_]

@@backwatersandbackroads Yeah, doubt I’ll do a shanty, but if my health holds out long enough (fingers crossed) I want to build a 28 to 36 footer as a live aboard and do the Great Loop… probably a boat design from SpiraInternational.com (maybe the Chubasco).

[@tomcop668]

Personally I like the mini rants, it makes me think about myself. I can relate to reluctant loner. If you don't mind me asking, what do you do for income? Odd jobs? Keep the vids coming!

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Hi Tom, thank you for rjr rant feedback, I think I'm disciplined enough these days not to abuse the service! Lol. Plus my long suffering friend or two that we trade rant venting. ;) work/money: by the grace of God go I, i just keep it as simple as possible, and fix and flip stuff, and work at a marina sometimes. Everything I own is paid for, so no monthly Bill's to speak of (just some basics) I honestly think anyone could be self employed and do it, but you have to jump in lakes ans rivers and use a bucket toilet! Lol ;)

[@danielarbuckle5270]

I would love to do what your doing, but wife will not go for it. plus I'am in Kansas & disabled, But I really love your videos.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

There's some really pretty places in Kansas (south central is one I've passes through) would like to rode my scooter around the state sometime. The midwest has far more scenic beauty than people give it credit for. ;) thanks for coming along.

[@alexjinks6172]

I'm 68 and completely understand what you have stated .....Hope that you have since found peace of mind since this video

[@curtismarean6963]

you remind me of myself a number of years ago, travelers are a diferent cut from the rest.

[@markJones38133]

What kind of book do u have that tell what is the city and dam at every stop on the river ?

[@backwatersandbackroads]

That's a great loop guide called "Quigleys"

[@maggieward1892]

On topic of being alone. If there is a beloved pet that can communicate like a dog or cat one is really not alone. When recalling ur trips you will always remember wavey.

[@TheJoey113]

That is Foscue Creek Park. It ia a USCOE (US Army Corps of Engineers) Campground.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Thank you!

[@jamestaylor8860]

You speak truth oh swami! I feel you man. I just turned 65, retired and am looking for something to do. Don’t fret or stress about male/female things. Take time now to figure out what’s important so when that person comes you’ll be ready. Ps. you know darn well a girl would love to have these adventures.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

You'd think man! But God made a 100 adventurous men to every female counterpart. What was he thinking? Lol.

[@nickkussman5746]

When you're fishing in all the different states.do you have to buy a fishing license for each state or can you just buy one for the whole country. Nice boat 👍.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Hi Nick, I didn't bother to buy a license at all. I never saw one authority figure on this trip. Thank you for finding my little channel, please stick around. More shanty boat coming

[@southerntexashomestead5028]

Great video. Very well said. ♡

[@jayjones6904]

Amen brother god bless you sir I'm in mid 60s fla boy im the same brother have my German shepherd bella but most women ive seen have been in drugs just don't want that i live in the country and mind my own business good lord will provide nice shanty boat been thinking of that also

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Hi Jay, thank you for finding our little channel. Will be taking another shanty trip this fall and winter on the Beagle Barge. I hope you stick around.

[@jaimeanderson5615]

Well I know the feeling. I've been alone since 2012. It's lonely but you've got to enjoy the adventure. The odd deal is I'm homeless even owning a home I never see.

[@1mnstrbassplyer]

I was looking on Craigslist and found here in my city of Salem, Or a 2000 Catamaran Cruiser Lil Hobo 30 ft. On a trailer. He wants 22k for it. What's your opinion on this year. In one of your first vids, I recall you saying the these boats were all crap.

[@haroldpetersen5584]

When trying to travel the old people have to go the doctor and young have to go to work! I've learned to go alone and meat people along the way.

[@francotripepi]

Excellent analysis, every choice sends you down a path, and more than "right or wrong", it's a matter of trade-offs, every choice bring trade-offs, we just have to decide which we value most Very good introspection, very poignant and real.......I can tell you view your surroundings (society and situations) without "corrective glasses", they usually distort, and to be able to see things for what they are, you must be able to take off those "corrective glasses" (biases and values) off I really enjoy your rants, the rest is very peaceful and nice too, but your rants are above average, due to their honesty and clarity .

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Thank you for those words of encouragement. I've come to believe I'm slightly autistic. I have a hard time playing the game of life. And not a lot of people like exploring deep truths. If you're interested, I listen to a channel here on YT often (like rarely miss a video) even though he's coming up on 100k subscribers, he's never monetized his channel (thus almost impossible to find without a referral of some sort) well here's yours buddy! :) "Quantum of Conscience" once you get all the "hobo code" he's forced to use (to not get canceled) he's the closest to calling it like it is I've found so far. Thanks for finding us here too ;)

[@francotripepi]

@@backwatersandbackroads Brenton, I recently discovered your channel by chance, and watched lots of your videos, and those on your personal Blog too (I am clearly a subscriber)....we read reality the same way, despite our "apparent" differences We chose different trade-offs, but see things in the same way....ain't that funny One of your BEST rants is in your Brenton's Blog "NOW IS THE TIME", what you carefully try, as cleanly as possible, to describe as happening, IS PRECISELY HAPPENING I also like the way you present those themes, very neutral and non-partisan, even thou you have a defined stand on it, otherwise you wouldn't describe it as you do Will listen to that channel you suggested, thanks for doing so, because the Social themes and reads you have, are parallel to mine........we are amongst those "pirates at 40", like Jimmy Buffet so precisely described us, regardless of our economic situation, some souls are just like that God speed, I'm slowly catching up with all your videos....keep sharing, as sanity, is in remembering our ways, our roots, our genesis....despite the attempts at erasing them......by the beast .

[@backwatersandbackroads]

@francotripepi I'm the most overdue fan of Jimmy Buffet ever. Just now listening and reading past his hits. Isn't that pathetic. So much to pay attention to out there. I'm always amazed anyone lands on my channel. Happy Thanksgiving brother

[@francotripepi]

@@backwatersandbackroads Happy Thanksgiving Brenton.....

[@jimmyhendrix4495]

Whats the name of the book you use that lists the locks etc? Thank you

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Hi Brian, I used a guide called "Quimby's" very helpful.

[@1mnstrbassplyer]

One other question. How has your cell service been so far? Wifi?

[@hieubb1802]

60hp engine, please tell me 100 miles your boat co sum how many gallon ? Thanks

[@backwatersandbackroads]

I think you're asking, how many miles per gallon? Its hard to calculate like that in a boat, but o can tell you it got amazing MPGs due to mostly going downstream and going slow. 5-7 mph. I spent about 450 dollars in fuel for the entire trip. Thanks for watching

[@cycledaze]

You actually said "you all" lol. And yes, you have idiosyncrasies. Very cute. Makes me think of mine. Militant agnostic, like it.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Hi Karen...how "y'all" doing up there in them thar UP?? Lol ;)

[@cycledaze]

@@backwatersandbackroads What dere eh? Is snowing everyday, eh

[@donnam4260]

Used to live close to Demopolis 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻😎

[@shanebeaudrot777]

One of the worst phases in my past life was feeling lonely when I had a wife. What's most important to me today is peace. I've learned to find contentment in all things. The majority of us viewer's would like to have your adventurous spirit. All things for all people will eventually seek it's level. Good luck and happiness towards your hearts desire.

[@jayjones6904]

Keep bringing the joy brother

[@Squarekn0t]

Larry Harvey---Burning Man The Desire to possess THINGS trumps our ability or capacity to make moral connections with people around us.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Very true and well said. Hiw about "we can't fill a spiritual hole with a material possession"

[@LOJOMarine]

Brenton you have outdone yourself with these video's and how you talk and how you feel I am so proud of you. I would have never been able to get in the first spot on the video I think I would have hit bottom as you was talking about finding a girl that would like to do the adventures we do I got to thinking sounds like a great dating site we need to invent it make a million dollars LOL anyhow great video stay dry will talk soon.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Howdy lojo, oh you would have gotten into that spot no problem. ;) and probably caught a lot more fish! :) you wouldn't believe how hard it's raining out here right now. I'm amazed I don't have any obvious leaks. I'll call you from Mobile buddy ;)

[@leroyjarvis5617]

I've been almost alone since my wife of 21 years passed in 02. There has been dating and such off and on but nothing seems to ever work out. People are to much stuff centered. One lady said I had no values I told her that it depends on what you value and how you judge other people by looking in your mirror you end up measuring others by yourself........she and I didn't work out. P. S. Looks like you cleaned the catfish with a chainsaw, lol. Great video! Edit; I started guitar in 03 and now I play ukuele and somewhat a fiddle every now and then. By far the easiest to learn for me was the ukuele plus their small and easy to pack along.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

What a great comment. I'm sorry to hear about your wife

[@marciablack8523]

Ps. Wow gas $2.02. I think we are paying $2.59. Hey “ ya all” what happened to your Yooper scent Lol.

[@marciablack8523]

Accent. Darn spell changer.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Well howdy dar maaarshha, how's them grits and possum stew coming up dar in y'all Michigan? Lol ;)

[@seanmcgivney7631]

3.29 here in SW Washington!

[@larrykendzior9734]

How do you become a member to post comments? There is no Patreon link.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

KZbin membership.

[@judithlehman3027]

Good for you. You know what you want

[@dannyboyd1299]

How long was that boat/cabin area?

[@backwatersandbackroads]

either 10x8.6 or 12x8.6. I forget.

[@dannyboyd1299]

@@backwatersandbackroads thank you, we are working on our first one 27.5 aluminum deck with a 13x8.5 enclosure, exciting binge watching your videos thank you for taking us along

[@backwatersandbackroads]

@@dannyboyd1299 Thank you for finding my channel :)

[@sonnyburnett5514]

"THEY'RE ZOMBIES!!!"...I truly believe I understand your definition or interpretation of this term (Observation) & can completely & wholeheartedly agree with that little dab of commentary. Far too much of society within this Nation "DURING THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES" has lost touch with so many things that were & still are out there to see & experience. Although I may seem to be "A People Person", I am primarily "A Loner" as well & have been my entire life. Personally, I'd have to say I had "THE PERFECT CHILDHOOD WHICH WAS FITTING FOR ME". I grew up on a farm in an "EXTREMELY RURAL AREA" in The Midwest & spent every day I could exploring every bit of our several hundred acre farm by walking, bike riding (riding a bicycle on those cattle/livestock/deer paths were fun), climbing in, around, & over rocky cliffs, or just climbing as high as I could in the trees to see all I could see. How you described your current lifestyle was nearly a mirror-image of mine now. Although I'm a terrible housekeeper, I currently live alone in a nice house in the same extremely rural area where I grew up. I'm not forced to conform my lifestyle by being forced to follow "INANE ISSUES" such as Ordinances which cities or even small towns impose upon you. For example, 1 particular ordinance which is a "NON-ISSUE" for me & where I live is "Mowing My Yard". For nearly 12 years I lived in a small community of around 1,500 people with ordinances which forced people to mow & trim their yards if your grass was too tall (I believe you'd be notified if it grew taller than 6 - 8 inches). Out here where I currently live, I haven't mowed my yard in 5+ years & it's totally up to me if or when I should mow it or merely parts of it. I have the tools to build nearly any project that comes to mind & since the projects may be built with various materials (wood, bicycle parts, small engine or farm equipment parts, different types of metal, etc.), I'm allowed to have my own scrap piles (I do my best to keep these somewhat "organized"). Having a scrap pile in my back yard was a definite "NO-NO" in town. The most significant obstacle for me to overcome when designing & building a "Shanty Boat" is "Do I come up with a design to allow space for several of my tools or do I take shorter excursions???" WHAT A DILEMMA!!! I'm viewing this video for the 1st time at the age of 59 years old at 3:34AM, July 19th, 2021 & I can only think of "OUTSTANDING!!!" as a way to describe it!!! It's almost as if your narration came from my own thoughts. I was married to "My High School Sweetheart" for nearly 32 years (We were together for nearly 35 years. "SHE WILL ALWAYS BE MY ONE & ONLY"). We have 2 beautiful daughters who have done very well & have families of their own. Personally, I've never believed in Divorce, however, my wife (Ex-Wife) believed otherwise. I'll forever be "IN LOVE" with my High School Sweetheart, but as that saying goes, "IF YOU TRULY LOVE SOMEONE, YOU HAVE TO BE ABLE TO SET THEM FREE". Building my own "SHANTY BOAT" & Taking it on a journey on The Mississippi or The Missouri might just be "EXACTLY WHAT I NEED". Your comment "DOIN STUFF BY YOURSELF, OR, WAITING FOR SOMEONE TO DO IT WITH" most definitely applies to me. Perhaps by the time I figure out a design for A Shanty Boat which I could outfit with some of my tools & get it finished, I'll have found a special companion who's "READY, WILLING, & ABLE" TO ACCOMPANY ME ON THIS PEACEFUL, SCENIC, & CATHARTIC JOURNEY....Thank You For This Video, Sir. I wish you luck in finding your companion & I hope you continue taking many more adventures in your future. Be Safe.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Thank you so much for taking the time to share that with me.

[@studiodemichel]

Thanks.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

You bet Mike,)

[@Mary-yu3sn]

I would be looking to see what history mother earth was hiding on that river....medal detecting here there just 1/2 hour at a time..

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Oh heck yeah Mary ;) I've been watching Randomislandnorm for a while and want to get myself a detector;)

[@Mary-yu3sn]

@@backwatersandbackroads Metal Detecting Old Farm Fields : Old Family Heirloom Silver Found!kzbin.info/www/bejne/b3qseYN_l95geKc [Aquachigger is the best hear the song he plays]

[@libertyforamericanow]

Do you still have this boat?

[@backwatersandbackroads]

I don't. I wish I did

[@thayward65]

Try a Harmonica your dog will probably sing along both mine does. Nothing is better than traveling with a dog.

[@steveburton9242]

The truer to myself I am, the more alone I become.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

That seems to be the case. The more of a individual one is, and independent, the harder it is to connect with others it seems. I put more effort into it these days because life is better with some company,) thanks for coming along on this one eh

[@acidstar11]

Loved the speech you kinda think like me I have a question. How much does this cost roughly ? I dont wanna rat and would love to live on something like this full time.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

It was a very affordable trip. I think I spent around 500 in fuel over 3.5 months floating from Illinois to Florida. Probably almost any boat could do it. I had around 6k into that one. Thanks did watching man

[@acidstar11]

@@backwatersandbackroads Sorry I meant like how much does it cost to build a shanty boat house Id like to make this a full time life style rather than paying rent for a 1bed appt thats the size of this shanty boat.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

@@acidstar11 Oh...right! I hear that. well, it depends on a lot of things. The way I did it was I found a trailerable houseboat that needed some work, then refurbed it. I was into this one about 6K if I remember correctly. You could do it cheaper with a pontoon boat. I would try to get one with a 4 stroke motor, it will save you a lot of money and hassle. I have the shanty boat beagle build here on my channel that I think would answer a lot of your questions. I hope this helps. I love this kind of stuff, let me know how I can help.

[@neal-stewart834]

awsome vid. and yes not many zombies on this thread

[@johnsmith-zv8ws]

if i ever get a boat i would never leave the water its a water front view that most pay 100s of thousands of dollars for

[@arlanmontgomery7830]

I liked this video on several levels.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Thanks Arlan, you'll be out here soon and I'll be commenting on your videos;)

[@Pabkojdim]

Man that seems fun. I would love to do that for the rest of my life

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Me too! I'm currently sitting on the couch here on the shanty at a rest area, towing it home to Michigan. Houses feel too big now ;)

[@Pabkojdim]

@@backwatersandbackroads Would you stay in that shanty during the winter if insulated?

[@backwatersandbackroads]

@@Pabkojdim down south is a piece of cake in the winter. I might live in it next winter on Kentucky lake or lake Barkley (Tennessee) a good vented propane heater and a bit more insulation and no problem. It's a small space to warm up

[@Pabkojdim]

@@backwatersandbackroads This maybe a dumb question but how come you didnt boat back up north?

[@Pabkojdim]

@@backwatersandbackroads How tall is it from ground level to roof on the trailer?

[@1mnstrbassplyer]

What is the title of the book you are looking at or is it a guide??

[@backwatersandbackroads]

It's called "Quibley's guide to the great loop"

[@dcpete3054]

definitely your best video ,love the trip

[@kitchencarvings4621]

$2.02 for gas. Those were the days. $3.79 in my town today.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

But Kamela is going to fix it! Lol

[@davelawrence6777]

Ultimately we must all become our own best friend

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Well said. I certainly made it a lot closer during and since that trip.

[@gstone42]

I am enjoying your trip!

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Thank you Gary. ;) you asked about fishing licenses: I didn't bother to get one. I hardly saw other people out there, and never saw an authority figure of any kind. The time of year helped. Fall and winter. You really have the place to yourself.

[@lesheath6216]

A good simple country girl will solve that loneliness problem. Mine loves to fish and camp for days at a time

[@backwatersandbackroads]

For every 99% simple country fella born, 1 female counterpart is. Unfortunate truth

[@libertyforamericanow]

Lifes like a roll of toilet paper. The closer you get to the end the faster it goes

[@tomirwin4819]

👍Reluctant loner is good. Same here.

[@chrisharrod3709]

Love these videos. Keep up the goodwork.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Thank you Christopher;) I wrapped up the shanty boat series at episode 25. In carrabelle now. Many more seat of pants adventures planned. O have no choice! I'm ruined for normal living;)

[@chrisharrod3709]

@@backwatersandbackroads i'm subscribed so i'll be following your next adventure. it's amazing you don't have more subscribers.

[@michaelcarroll543]

Channel Catfish ?

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Channel cats is what most folks have said.

[@tonyjohnvnv]

Good video . from a likewise friend who you have never met . Keepem comming .

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Thank you Tony;) merry Christmas to you

[@tdgdbs1]

After a 20 years marriage; I will never travel with a woman again. My dog however is the best companion anyone could ask for.

[@IntheBlood67]

I hear ya, Brotheman! You've heard the joke about dating where she is pretending to be someone else so you get to know each other better!

[@backwatersandbackroads]

I pretty much went MGTOW buddy ;)

[@seanmcgivney7631]

Yes I will contact you via phone, you posted your # on a previous thread, do you permit?

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Yes sir :)

[@gregoryfortenberry741]

Dang friend your great, but please learn to clean a catfish. Lol

[@LycandersAim]

1: You're editing is great! 2: I want to subscribe to your newsletter for reluctant loners. It takes one to know one and you are one. Perhaps a support group should be formed.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

All reluctant loners are welcome here my friend ;)

[@doncollins786]

Good one!

[@desertdanblacksmith1394]

"Old Man River" has made you contemplate......Im retired.....enjoying life now in the desert as a minimalist..doin what I want each day...getting here was a journey.....but dont worry about it much just enjoy each day....every day above ground is great! Keep it between the ditches (or navigational buoys) ! Check out RAN Sailing on youtube!

[@ladyofjazz448]

Is freedom anything else than the right to live as we wish? Nothing else.- Epictetus

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Good quote. Might use that one;)

[@ladyofjazz448]

@@backwatersandbackroads the ancient philosophers had a lot of good ones, yes. One of my favorites.

[@ladyofjazz448]

Loneliness is the poverty of self; solitude is its richness, yet still I dream of another.

[@backwatersandbackroads]

@@ladyofjazz448 this whole strong and independent is just another power structure psyop to divide....and conquer

[@ladyofjazz448]

@@backwatersandbackroads I have begun to understand that.

[@seanmcgivney7631]

Hip doing great, after all I am young! Lol, so the doctors say!!

[@backwatersandbackroads]

Excellent ;) back on the scooter. I think you should consider a 250...and something made in Japan;)