The realm of covert operations is shrouded in secrecy and mystery, often depicted in popular media as a world of high-tech gadgets and encrypted messages. However, the reality is far more nuanced. While technology plays a significant role in modern espionage, the use of traditional, low-tech methods of communication has not only persisted but also thrived. This article delves into the enduring practices of off-the-books communication, exploring how and why these methods have survived from older operations to the present day. From the golf course to the lunch spot and back to the machine shop, we uncover the tactics used by operatives to maintain cover and avoid detection.