About

The lakes of Derry, NH, transform into vibrant hubs of activity during the winter season. Unlike my experiences growing up in California, where lakes like Tahoe are renowned but lack that intimate, communal buzz, the lakes here seem to embody a seasonal culture of their own. Whether it’s ice fishing, skating, or snowmobiling, the frozen waters bring people together in ways that feel uniquely New England. It’s a world that I’m still growing accustomed to, but one I’ve come to deeply appreciate.

While I’ve yet to try ice fishing myself—mostly due to schedules never quite aligning—I’ve always been fascinated by the tradition and community surrounding it. Inspired by the charm of these icy gatherings and my family’s love for exploring New Hampshire, I thought it’d be fun to bring this setting to life through Mik and Nik. In this strip, we see Nik eagerly dragging Mik out onto the ice, with his plans for a perfect fishing trip unfolding in their own humorous way.

This particular strip is just the start of their winter escapades. It sets the stage for what’s to come: a series of small misadventures that capture the quirky dynamic between Nik’s enthusiasm and Mik’s constant, slightly skeptical charm. For me, it’s also a way to blend my family’s real-life explorations into the creative process. The quiet beauty of New Hampshire’s winters has become an unexpected muse, and I love weaving that inspiration into my art.

With two strips planned for this ice-fishing storyline, the goal is to capture not just the fun of the activity itself but the small, heartwarming moments of friendship that come with it. From the vibrant community tents to the crunch of boots on fresh snow, these strips are my way of celebrating the simple joys of Derry’s lakes and the adventures they inspire. Stay tuned for what happens next—it’s bound to get a little frosty and a lot of fun!

Remember, do not go on any ice without the proper authorities giving the okay!