Made my way down to Longbranch on Friday despite the fact there was 80% chance of rain. I had caught an 11 1/2lber out there a few years back after a big rain, so I was actually kind of excited about the weather report. I'm a glutton for punishment and don't mind the rain if there's a chance that I might slip up on a big one.

The lake is full, water level almost to the bottom boards of the pier. Mr. and Mrs. Yates greet you at arrival and Sassy Bear is a little uneasy in anticipation  of the weather or what lies ahead. She try's to get in the boat with us to provide guide service but we are worried about exposed hooks and we leave her on the pier with the promise she can watch the Mavs with us later on that evening. 

It's fairly slow most of the day, those Florida's are so finicky. We are having an uneventful trip and it begins to mist on us while we are in the back of the far creek. Of course, the wet suits are back at the cabin sitting on the porch. 

Even with the new trolling motor ( always top notch accessories at LongBranch) it takes us a while to return to the cabin. As we approach the cabin, I've got the trolling motor on 4 because I'm going to run it up on the bank instead of the pier, grab the rain gear and quickly get back out there to gut it out.

I'm making long casts as we approach the hill between the pier and the boat launch area. I throw into the brush pile like we have all done thousands of times before. Feel the bite, rare back and try to bury the 5/0 hook and my 6 inch green pumpkin senko into a monster. On Friday afternoon, she was home, just sitting there waiting on me. 

The water began to boil, within seconds she had my 7"11 rod bent under the boat almost to the handle. She made several runs that seemed to have taken 2-3 minutes. The equipment didn't fail me and I was lucky enough to boat her and get a few pics for bragging purposes. She weighed out at 10 1/4 lbs....beautiful contour and color, full belly. My cheeks still hurt from smiling so much. 

It's hard to find the joys in life much better than spending time with family and friends on the open water. It's equally difficult to find the value of services equal to that of Private Waters Fishing.

Longbranch and Mr. and Mrs. Yates are the role models of what Steve is offering. Good fellowship, reel solitude and a chance to catch trophy bass! 

Posted By: David Curtis