IT IS ON! I couldn't wait for the weekend, so I went out again Friday at 1730. I caught the 5.85 pounder in 7 foot of water, thick vegetation. I was making long casts with a 7’ medium action rod, coupled with a Pflueger Medalist spinning reel, strung with 6 lbs test Trilene XL, using a BPS Watermelon Red, 5” Stick-O and 3/O Gamakatsu Off Set Shank Worm EWG hook. I dragged the top of the weeds until I saw a dark pocket. I like it sink. After a 3-count, I felt a tick. I immediately took in the slack line and set the hook. Again . . . bad hook set with such a long cast and light line. When I lipped her next to the boat, the hook fell out of her mouth -- whew. I was heading back to shore because it was getting dark – I think it was around 2015. I heard a very familiar sound -- a huge splash in some lily pads. I headed towards the lily pads as I tied on a Zara Spook. I made about a 30 yard cast right to the edge of the lilies. Walking the dog for just three strokes, a bass completely annihilated the plug. I felt the tug and set the hook. It was a 5.55 pounder. After I released her, I made a few more casts and missed one – too anxious, I guess. I would have stayed longer, but no lights on the boat meant get off of the lake. It was a good three hours of fishing.

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