After seeing another boat pull in a small one right away, we spent the next 3 hours or so trolling without a single bite. It was hard to get discouraged because it was such an awesome day. When we came across a big underwater rock pile in 15-25 FOW we stopped and I started to throw for some smallies. 8lb test...1/8oz jig and a small swimbait, no leader or swivel...really good smallie bait. On only my 5th or 6th cast, I set the hook on what feels like a good smallie....not huge, but good. It gives a decent fight, and as it comes up.....NOT A SMALLIE. As soon as the musky sees the boat....bye bye tearing off line like no tomorrow. He does this 3 or 4 times and I see that the hook is hardly in his mouth (I can see the jig-head)
So I decide that if we are going to get this thing in the boat we will have to net it. My step-dad proceeds to net the fish, but can't lift it into the boat (not in the greatest of shape) The tail is sticking out of the net and so is the head. Before I can get over to help him, the fish thrashes and jumps out of the net and is gone. I look at the hook, and it is straight.
We figured the fish was over the 40" range after measuring the net. We got a few pictures of it while it was still in the water (I will try and post them soon)
It was still a great day spent with my parents.
Oh and I don't think I will be putting the boat away anytime soon. And yes I will be getting a bigger net.
Anyone know what kind of Bird this is????
Sounds like fun either way! You'll get 'em next time. 