Ain’t life in Louisiana grand? Spring has sprung, with temperatures topping out in the 70s and the sun shining. It’s time to shake off the dust and gear up for spring fishing.
The hunting seasons were a bust for most hunters most of the time this year. But there were still some most memorable hunts that merit a look back.
Thomas Leonards, like most local waterfowlers, had his fair share of lean hunts. But the hunt that made it all worthwhile was one spectacular specklebelly adventure. All the conditions were right on a morning trip to the rice fields near Thornwell.
The specs were responsive to the call and looking to land. Thomas and crew had limits early, as the specks decoyed in, locked and loaded. This was one hunt to remember and reminisce about when one was having trouble falling asleep. Sleep tight!
Spring bass fishing offers anglers their best opportunity to catch their fish of a lifetime. Big sow bass have begun to spawn, moving into shallow water to deposit their eggs. It can quickly become a great trip with one giant bass.
Marc O’Brien was working hard for a few small male fish when he had his world rocked. Fishing in less than four feet of water at a secret place called Tornado Bend, he struck gold.
He had customized a Rat l’Trap with an exclusive one-of-a kind paint job. He put on heavy gold sparkles; heated the Rat l’Trap, trimmed it, and sculpted until he had the masterpiece bait he had dreamed of.
On a slow day, he decided to go for broke and tied his custom trap on. There was sparse grass, and he had to work, ripping his masterpiece off a very ugly bait, as he went. On one rip through the grass, a big sow bass followed and honed in. Another rip, and the big fish attacked. Marc set the hook, and all hell broke loose.
After several power runs, the 11-pound-plus Tornado hawg rolled into the net. Sometimes the ugliest bait catches the biggest fish. This bait deserves a special spot in Marc’s tackle box.
Scott Cloud and his fishing partner, Collin, were busy chunking and winding on the Bend. He was slow-fishing a jig in the shallows when things began to heat up. A few males got things going, and signaled the bite was on.
Scott watched as a big female closed the distance on his light jig. The fish engulfed the bait and pushed a nice wake. There was a good hook set, and the rodeo was on. The big sow weighed in at more than 8 pounds. It was the picture of a very healthy fish that wasn’t missing any meals.
If none of the above floats your boat, you may be watching too much political coverage on the boob tube. Most of the very wealthy buffoons who want your vote will offer you a pie in the sky. Their messages are so boring and redundant it’s comical. Their scripted speeches in which they promise that all they want is a chance to fight for us have worn thin from the beginning. If they’re elected, the proverbial worm will quickly turn, and the American public will pay the tab.
Check out the candidate you despise the most and force yourself to sit through a speech dripping in b.s. See how long it takes for he or she to reinforce the point that they are only running for office for the opportunity to “Fight for John Q. Public.” That’s you and me! Don’t forget to exercise your right and vote. We are still the greatest country that’s ever existed — due mostly to the voters.
Comments are closed.