Some days on the water, something happens that reminds you just how unpredictable — and incredible — fishing can be.
I took my friend/client Gary out recently to chase smallmouth. Since it was just us, I actually got to fish too — which is a nice treat for me (the guide).
Most of the time, when I netted a fish for Gary, I’d set my rod down quickly — often still in the water. Early in the trip, I heard a clank, turned around, and my favorite Douglas rod and reel combo was 90% overboard. The reel barely caught the gunnel. I managed to save it just in time — and landed the fish too.
Then it happened again.
Maybe 15 minutes later, same deal: I net Gary’s fish, turn back around… and this time, no rod. It was gone. Disappeared without a sound. I started fan-casting an A-rig, hoping to snag the line. Nothing. Eventually, I stopped and just prayed:
“God, please help me find that rod.”
Immediately afterward, a fish surfaced right off the bow.
Gary: “What was that?”
Me: “That’s my fish. It’s got my rod.”
Gary: “How do you know?”
Me: “I just know.”
I tied on the only FishSense Binsky I had in the boat and started jigging with purpose. A few casts later, I felt something heavy…
“I got it — and it’s got my fish.”
Sure enough, I reeled in my Douglas rod — and still on the other end was a 4-pound smallie. I handlined it in, Gary netted it, and we just stood there, stunned.
His face: 
Mine: 
It’s a moment neither of us will forget.
June still has some availability with limited dates remaining to chase some beautiful Lake Erie smallmouth:
Tight lines,
Captain Destin DeMarion
Big Fat Bass Guide Service – 724-790-4232 (4BFB)
Want to save on great ShredFin apparel? Use code “DEMARION15” here.
