Last year I was fishing near some big rocks in my end of the Western Sound, when I was surprised to hook something big, and it cut me off on the rocks. I thought I'd give that spot another try.
Action was a little slow, with mostly tiny fish - then I hook something that doesn't budge after I set the hook on my 3/8 oz jig.
I don't want a repeat of last year, so even though the drag is slipping, I walk to the side of the boat farthest from the rocks, and thankfully the fish turns and heads for the deeper water, away from the rocks. The fish is fighting hard, but not making long runs. I get it up to the surface and can't believe my eyes. I was expecting something in the 4-5lb range, but this blackfish looked as big as a striper in the water.
Now I've got to walk around to the other side of the boat, as my net is behind the door of my center console, collapsed and in need of extension.
Somehow, I keep the line tight, as the monster is happy enough to stay 10' or so from the boat; but it won't come any closer to net. I begin to realize how hard it is to slide the fish to the net with my light spinner in one hand and the net in the other. Eventually it slips into the net and I just need a moment before bringing it in.
10.5 on the boga and 25.5 inches. A few quick solo pics and a big splash in my face from its tail as it swims away. A boat record and more meaningful than my first DD on a RI charter.