What is your favorite fishing trip sandwich? Hopefully, you may not get a chance to eat a sandwich, because the fishing is so good, but… Once you “git yer limit”, or the bite slows down, what sandwich meets your needs?
One thing that I miss in Montana is a really great sub sandwich. We have the Subway and several other fast-food sandwiches but nothing like a cold cut sub from an Italian deli back east. Cold cuts from Pennsylvania and Baltimore were simply the best. The bread was fresh, homemade, and baked in the shop. The Pennsylvania Dutch cold cuts were awesome.
Montana does have the Pickle Barrel in Bozeman. They do make an excellent Italian sub and their cheese steak is also great. I am sure that there must be a few local spots where you can get some decent fresh sandwiches.
In 4 Corners, near Bozeman, Mama Macs make some mean sandwiches. Their bread is the real deal. The Guide lunches are also excellent and come with fresh salads and a HUGE cookie. The best sandwiches begin with the freshest and best bread.
A fishing trip sandwich needs to be fresh and special. I like to make sandwiches on the tailgate, shore, or in the boat. Keeping the bakery bread in a crush proof box helps. My lunch cooler is separate from the beer or drink cooler. If I am using deli meats, I get them fresh cut.
Produce like sliced tomatoes and lettuce needs to be fresh. I slice them ahead of time and have them ready to go. Mayo or the sandwich sauce can also be made at home and ready to use. Aioli sauces are a nice change. I try to be different. Butter is also an important add on, that many shore lunchers leave out. A nice spice blend also helps. Don’t forget the fresh sliced cheese.
The sandwich needs to be a handful, like the fish we catch. You want a full-sized sandwich that is fat, full, but controllable.
This is when you bring out your homemade pickles, peppers, and relishes. No need for store bought. Celebrate the trip with real tasty and personal treats. When I guided, the clients often wanted recipes at the end of the trip. Side dishes can also be made ahead and ready to serve. By making these treats the night before, you can just put out the lunch and get out of the way.
Where you eat is important. Pick a view or a beautiful place to eat your food and take in the scenes. Don’t pick the table next to the vault toilet. Presentation is important.
Adding unique toppings is fun. Maybe a handful of potato chips or corn chips will add some crunch and flavor. Salt and pepper or spice will kick every sandwich up a notch. If I am not sure what my fishing buddies enjoy, I set up a buffet and they can have fun building their own manly or dainty sandwich.
The fishing trip sandwich must be practical and can travel. Premade sandwiches will soak up juices and condiments which will make them soggy. Work within your parameters of a cooler, or a sack in the back of your vest. Remember that frozen water bottles in the ingredients sack will keep things cool and allow you a cold beverage too.
The goal is to make a sandwich that will be memorable. When I fished with Lefty Kreh, his sandwiches were always the same. Peanut butter and pickles on Blue Ribbon white bread. That was it. I sure remember that!
What a Big Bite!
Montana Grant
