A family tradition
Man, what a big fish!
As a lifelong fisherman, there's no place I'd rather be than casting my line into these beautiful waters, with the horizon stretching endlessly before me. My father and I have been coming to Hoppe’s Aerie Cottage for several years now after finding out about it through some friends.
Every trip to the cottage has been special to me. My father and I have shared countless sunrises here, bundled up in jackets against the crisp morning air, preparing to set out on Lake Eerie to fish. There's something magical about this place at dawn that is hard to describe. The world feels quiet and alive all at once, the water reflecting shades of pink and orange as the first rays of sunlight appear over the horizon.
Fishing on Lake Erie isn't just a pastime; it's a tradition. My father taught me everything I know about the craft. Together, we've caught everything from perch to walleye, with each catch bringing its own thrill and special memory.
I remember one particular morning when my father hooked what he swore was the biggest walleye he'd ever seen. The fight lasted minutes but felt like hours, with both of us shouting and laughing until tears rolled down our cheeks. Moments like that make this place more than just a fishing spot—it's a treasure trove of memories for me.
When the day winds down, we return to Hoppe’s Aerie Cottage, our catch of the day in hand. The cozy charm of the home greets us like an old friend, with its warm interiors and relaxing atmosphere. There’s a simple joy in preparing dinner with fish we caught ourselves, seasoned to perfection and served with a side of stories from the day (and maybe a beer or two).
Evenings are my favorite. Sometimes, I sit on the porch with my father, the two of us wrapped in blankets, sipping coffee and marveling at the stars. The lake takes on a different kind of beauty at night, its surface shimmering under the moonlight, a quiet reminder of the adventures that await tomorrow.
This home on Reno Beach is more than a getaway; it's a place where memories are made, where every cast of the line is a new story waiting to unfold. If you’re looking for a retreat that combines the serenity of nature with the comforts of home, this is it. Come, make it your own. The lake is calling.
-Justin Callaway
