As you are reading this and thinking we weren’t out of our minds, you would be right. Hey, we were four teenage boys. What else must I say?

Norlin and Miller faced each other and took a deep breath then disappeared under the muddy water. Bershe and I stood there waiting for who knows what when suddenly a very large amount of bubbles came up from Miller’s end of the rock.

Somehow, Miller was able to get his head barely above the water as he let out a scream. Norlin suddenly came up and yelled at Miller to not let it go. Miller yelled out that he couldn’t let go because it had bit down on his thumb. It was then that Norlin admitted he had run a stringer through the fish’s tail making the fish mad.

Did we catch the fish? Yes we did but it was almost embarrassing to see how small this thing actually was to have caused us so much grief.

Oh yes, noodling is a wonderful opportunity to bond with your friends and with the fish. Just ask Miller.

To prove I am not making this sport up, on a certain Saturday afternoon, Pauls Valley’s population quadruples when the Okie Noodling Festival takes up residence at Bob’s Pig Shop at 829 N. Ash St.

This year’s event, which is on July 11, marks its 10th anniversary. It’s listed as one of 101 of the Greatest Festivals, Sporting Events, and Celebrations in the U.S.

This year adds another competition to the renowned first and biggest competition for largest catfish caught by hand. The call is out for entries for the first annual Okie Noodling Catfish Cookoff to find the state’s best cooked catfish dish.

Taste and presentation are important, and the judges will assign scores on those two criteria. Innovation and novelty, but only if it enhances the taste of catfish, will also be considered.

A traditional cornmeal battered fried catfish, if done just right, could win this contest. Prize money includes $100 for first place, $50 for second and $25 for third. Entry fee is $15 deadline is July 10. For information, contact 405-238-2332.

On this July 4 weekend when we celebrate our freedom and show we are proud of our soldiers and of our country and thank God we are Americans with the freedom of religion, of speech, we have the freedom to go noodling. Have a safe and wonderful weekend everyone. God bless America.

Rocky Anderson’s column appears on Fridays. Send your comments or ideas to Ra101460@yahoo.com or reach him by phone at 351-5545.