Nate Kelley a 40 something avid outdoorsman with a passion for fishing is a life-long Newport resident. Nate graduated from North Country High School and entered the job force working for Bob’s Electric which happens to be owned by his dad. Nate is proud to say he caught his first salmon from the Fishing Bridge in downtown and was immediately hooked on the sport!
Where do you like to fish in Newport?
Lake Memphremagog is my go to spot for fishing. I love to take my fully rigged boat “The Bloody Mary” up the west side of the lake where I’ve caught salmon, rainbow trout, pike and perch. It’s a sad day when I pull the boat for the winter. But the sadness quickly ends when winter hits then you’ll find me setting up my fishing shanty and cutting through the ice to fish for cold weather catches.
What are your favorite activities in Newport?
When not fishing, I’ll go cruising on the boat and tie up with friends, and family to enjoy the scenic views of the city from the lake. A avid outdoorsman, I can also be found riding ATV’s and hunting in the nearby woods. I also enjoy golfing at the Newport Country Club, Wednesdays on the Waterfront, and now that the border is open I can take the boat to Magog, CA for an afternoon of shopping and dining.
What would you like to tell other boaters about Newport?
We have dining options right on the water. Sometimes we head over to the Eastside and dock there and have bevies and dinner on the deck. The Northern Star leaves from the Gateway Center with cruises that take passengers to the international boundary line with Canada at the western shore of Lake Memphremagog. A full beverage service and light snacks are available onboard during the cruises. I really enjoy letting someone else be the skipper!
What’s Newport’s best kept secret?
That we are a community in every sense of the word. People are always there for each other, doing what’s needed during good times and lending a hand in challenging times. We support each other’s businesses and volunteer when an organization needs help.
Why do you keep your boat on Lake Memphremagog?
That’s easy. It’s the best lake in the state with all the services I need to keep
“The Bloody Mary” in ship shape. When I needed a trolling motor installed, the friendly, skilled staff at Newport Marine Service and Storage met me on the dock and helped with the installation. I also have a boat slip there and in winter months the Bloody Mary is shrink wrapped and stored there.