Never Go Fishing Unprepared

I have a quick little story I'd like to share about a recent trip to the river. What started as just a "quick" trip to get out of the house turned into an adventure I won't soon forget-especially the lesson learned!

Never go fishing unprepared!

I headed down to the bank with a single rod, pair of pliers, Slayin' Sauce © and my coffee cup. No other tackle, no net.. nothing extra. Remember- this was just to get me out of the house and get a little fresh air. I started my usual casting pattern, and after four casts.. FISH ON! As I'm fighting this fish and trying to get it close to the bank, it breaks me off. Now normally I would re-tie and get back at it. I've got nothing with me. My adrenaline is still pumping from the fight. The itch to catch that fish is worse than a mosquito bite that wont stop!

Now I'm faced with a decision. Do I go home and grab some gear, or do I run up to the gas station and grab a couple spoons. Decisions, decisions. I decide to run up to the gas station and grab what I need. Keep in mind I have nothing with me. I have no leader line with me. What to do?? I had my centerpin setup in the car that I wasn't using, so I cut the leader off, re-tie and head back down.

Hawk Eye Crimsom / Gold Casting Spoon - The one that got away

Lucky Strike Five of Diamonds

I begin my pattern again, and now I'm getting nothing. No hits, bites - nothing! All I could grab was a Lucky Strike five of diamonds. Apparently the fish didn't want it that afternoon. I continue fishing away and another angler joins the bank. As I'm about to cast, he fires out right in front of me. I held back my cast and wouldn't you know it- snap! There goes my five of diamonds. I should have grabbed a second one, but I honestly didn't think I would need it- and I know I have many at home. So I'm dead in the water again. Fish jumping all around. To say I was defeated is an understatement.

What a couple of hours though! It was fun, chaotic and infuriating all at the same time. But that's fishing!

Lesson taken away from my hectic day.. Never leave home unprepared!

Tight Lines,

Redneck Fish Slayer