Diamond in the rough

As I watched a babbling brook flow down the side of Saratoga Street last week, I had to fight the delusional urge to grab my rod and reel and “get my fish on.” Fishing, as others call it, is not exactly a city-centric activity, but with Diamond Jim out there, it’s all I can think about — other than the seemingly sorry state of Baltimore’s water mains.

Mr. Jim, as I call him, is a specially tagged striped bass and part of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ 2007 Maryland Fishing Challenge. There are 20 impostors and 1 Diamond Jim released, with a cash prize between $10,000 and $25,000 — depending on when he’s reeled in — for hooking the real deal. Anglers can read rules and requirements, how to enter, and even see a picture of a “Diamond Jim” tag on DNR’s Web site.

And as far as the downtown log flume (or waterslide, whichever you prefer) is concerned, I hear the Bureau of Water & Wastewater is working on the nation’s largest urban Slip & Slide , with the added thrill of weaving between those always-patient city drivers.

-FRANCIS SMITH, Special Publications Assistant Editor