Pacemaker Fishing Forum

It had been a few months since George and I got in a kayak float and both of us had Friday free to get back out.  Met up early at the takeout, loaded kayak and gear up in one vehicle and head up to the put in.  We both heard the fishing had been slow from others but we had hope. 

I believe George got one quick on a fluke and had a few other small ones swiping at it.  I was alternating casting the reliable old swimbait and light brown/orangish crankbait that caught me a few big smallies last summer.  Apparently some big fish magic remained because a fish loaded up on it not too far from the kayak, thinking it came out from under a rock.  I knew it was big and then I saw it and George saw it break the surface. He was sure to call out to keep calm and not force it. After a few tense minutes, this chunk of a 19.5" smallmouth was in the net.



We continued on the float with both of us picking up a few fish here and there on swimbaits and flukes.  Then in a small pool it was George's turn as he was floating down the deeper side of the river. He threw next to a log in the water and he got the no doubt about it thump. After a few minutes of letting that fish wear itself out, it was picture time.  Pulled to the side of the river so I could take his picture with this chunky 17.5" (think I remember right) that was hooked solid. 



We both caught a few more smallies after that in some push water and fast water below ledge areas.  Then it was time to paddle through a long stretch of flat water to reach one more rapid before the take out.  Tried a few more casts below that but couldn't get any more takers. 

It was definitely a good day on the river for both of us. I know I caught 6-7 with a big chunk and of course George got a few more than me with a big old chunk himself. Even saw a big family of baby ducks along the bank.