Let me 1st mention that trying to positively add to a posting originated by Skeetbum is like trying to hit a grand slam following Mickey Mantle in the lineup! But-I'll do my best. I've been eagerly awaiting for this event to unfold for about a year now after learning about it through Don(Pontoon Pappy) and his multiple yearly attendances over the years even winning big fish 21" two years ago. Really couldn't have coordinated a more adept, competitive, communicative partner than Tim(Skeetbum) which only exponentially enhanced the day. My introduction to ultralight skinny fishing was introduced last summer by Skeet w/his touting of a 2 lb. Nanofil "bullet in his chamber". This Dyneema co-polymer, unifilament line is frighteningly skinny yet strong, but attention is needed on abrasion fraying. Skeet wisely recommends a 4 lb mono or flouro leader to help defray it's vulnerability. This skinny line usage only heightens the competitive thrill especially when larger species are in the mix, but can be complimented with a take your time, light drag setting, net ready technique. Skeet's experienced skill level is easily seen when he starts racking up the numbers, even still letting out the satisfying verbiage. Besides the increasing wind/boat handling component, the day had it's moments when a few inconsiderate, unconcerned larger craft created their 15 - 18" rollers for us to contend with(gotta love the weekend crowd)...don't need to fish weekends anymore:cheers2 Even had one 25 footer exclaim "you're not the only ones fishing out here ya know!:Doh: Single pole casting yielded to multi-rod long lining to cover more ground and definitely showed merit. One of the Kodak moments(see pic) was initiated by in the distance boom boxing "coming our way"! Within minutes the Spanish Armada of jet-skis(50+-) made the stage OMG!! Skeet explained the Hispanic "experience" as a large group that travels waterways in an excursion/tour event he has witnessed on weekends on St. Johns. Some of the individuals have their own mindset of water courtesy/rationale,, some even getting within 1/2 cast distance. Had to reach for the camera to capture the moment = without description. Can't give enough kudos to Pat the CEO/co-ordinator of this annual Shad-only event. Enjoyed great grub and drinks and as Skeet mentioned the comforting comraderie of those in attendance including Steve and Sheryl(Osteen area) we saddled up to after they took 1st and 2nd place with identically measured 19.5 inchers, good job(future C.com members, too). Like to thank Pontoon Pappy for re-igniting my love for shad fishing, although they aren't the size of my moons-ago Susquehanna Whites up to 6-7 lbs. still the blast on the "skinny" gear!! :ThumbsUp:fish Maybe c u there next year, hopefully I'll be the other guy in the boat with Skeet. Thanks for checkin' on me:fish
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