Way to go! Im sure you enjoyed the time with your Dad. Dont give up on the long rods as all brands long rods will break easily. Be sure your Drag on your Reel is set loosely and you have a long handled Dip Net. Wear bigger fish down before you try to surface him. Try to get net in other hand and ease under fish. Sounds like you have found some honey holes for sure. Good report. Bottombumper