07-03-2011, 04:57 AM
Had a few hours before dark, so I hit Mantua and explored the trees on the northern shore. Pulled in over 80 fish (primarily bluegill, though some largemouths and perch were accommodating, as well) in 4 hours.
Lost a big one. I'd been panfishing, but laid into what must've been a significant bass, because the moment she felt the hook, she beelined for deeper water... and my boat was in her way. Popped off as she went under. Too bad. Didn't get a look at it, but its heft was FAR bigger than anything I've caught in a long time. Oh well.
Back to the wimpy fish, though: I couldn't keep them off my line. I'd let a lure dangle in the water off the side of the boat while I tried to rig another pole - and the fish would take it. I even cast out a fly popper and just let it sit there... till a largemouth hammered it...
Doesn't get much better than that. I need to find a way to make money as a panfish guide on Mantua. I'd live on that lake if I could pull it off... though I'd definitely need a more comfortable boat...
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Lost a big one. I'd been panfishing, but laid into what must've been a significant bass, because the moment she felt the hook, she beelined for deeper water... and my boat was in her way. Popped off as she went under. Too bad. Didn't get a look at it, but its heft was FAR bigger than anything I've caught in a long time. Oh well.
Back to the wimpy fish, though: I couldn't keep them off my line. I'd let a lure dangle in the water off the side of the boat while I tried to rig another pole - and the fish would take it. I even cast out a fly popper and just let it sit there... till a largemouth hammered it...
Doesn't get much better than that. I need to find a way to make money as a panfish guide on Mantua. I'd live on that lake if I could pull it off... though I'd definitely need a more comfortable boat...
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