Thread: Florida Citation Crappie

Yesterday's trip to Lake Monroe on the USS Pontoon Pappy proved to be a truly memorable experience for both Captain Don and mate U2S. Began the trip shortly after first light with our typical long-lining spread of 13(unlucky?) rod combos. As usual, with Don's always current firsthand/favorite lake experience, I easily left the day's spot-choice chronology for him to determine our cooler opening exercises. Even though this scenario is always the eventual protocol, the Captain's polite manner is always worth chuckling over when he asks "Where you want to start"? I typically reply "Where you caught 'em yesterday"! Florida's current water temp., both salt/fresh, stands steadfast in the 80-84 range throughout the day with air temps routinely capping in low to mid 90's. Took a bit of conversation before the 1st fish(12") had the mesh of Don's long-handled net initiated the body-massage before cooler bath. After several significant moves to find 'em, we only had two throwbacks, quick-release, boatside Gar before my WM 10'r w/4 lb mono would display its Yoga position capability. Cattitude would appropriately describe it's strength and mobility in our tug-o-war that ended with another of Don's net body massage . Heading back to the ramp after atypically using up only 1/2 day, because of a smile fix(see pics) dental visit, I filleted/bagged both fish. This was done because of my dentist, Carlos(friend, C.com member) loves fish/fishing but seldom goes due to "busy ness" and family duties. He especially likes eating catfish, so I knew he would would appreciate the 5 lb. channel(see pics) to blacken-up! Now, you may be wondering about my post title "Florida Citation Crappie"...now entering the room is Paul Harvey. Sitting moored @rampside pier was a 22' center console with easily readable FWC Marine Enforcement decaling. The typical cordial banter ensued with "Can I see what you guys caught"? Yessir, sure can. Shortly thereafter is when HIS party started. I was always under the impression that a size-regulated fish(salt or fresh) couldn't be fileted, or head removed until arriving back to ramp = See pics- ....now you know the REST of the story, good day!

u2s



Thankfully only a warning!
Hope you enjoy the fish, Doc Carlos