Memories- Fish Camps

I grew up in a small town outside of Charlotte that is known for its many fish camps. When I was in highschool, It was a popular place kids landed their first job. There was one on every corner. I remember six of them with in a two mile stretch. Twin Tops Fish camp was only a mile from my home. The day I turned sixteen the family went to eat there. My dad took me into the kitchen where he knew the owner. "My girl just turned sixteen, can you put her to work?" I left that night with a job. I was a bus boy and enjoyed it. I was paid 3.00 an hour plus a percentage of tips. It was gas and movie money and thats all I needed at the time.

I noticed that many people who are not from around here give me a strange look when I call it a fish camp. A lot of people only know them as fish houses. I picture a fish house being fancy and serving wine. Fish camps around here are anything but fancy. The intereiors are often made up of wooden tables, bench seats and fish photos hanging on the wall that would tell the story of the fishermen. Families would make it custom to go every week and meet friends. With a roll of paper towels, a setting of paper plates and a jug of sweet tea on the table, you were ready to eat.

 

Fish camps were usually owned by generations of families. There was always competition on which one was the best. The other towns around would have fish camp festivals with cook offs and cat fish races. Those were the fun days. 

Fish camps are still popular and you can still see a line hanging out the door on any givin friday night. 

They are just that good.