was hooked, you would have a greater chance to make the right split decision adjustments, thus having a higher probability for a successful catch.
Yeah, it might feel funny letting a small fish pull drag; but it’s a lot better than the feeling when the line snaps from underestimating the strength of a bigger fish that is hooked.
ASK AND ANSWER
I often hear anglers state they stuck a big one and it broke them off. I follow with, did it wrap you up in cover? If yes, pulling harder and sooner would be the answer. But it is answered most commonly with no it just pulled so hard the line snapped.
We can then ask ourselves, did the fish pull to hard or did we?
Assuming we are using quality line, have a properly set drag, the appropriate rod for the presentation and a strong knot. It is on us to learn and know how to apply the maximum pressure with breaking. But, in many cases there are just some situations that the fish will win the fight, and as anglers we must realize there are times where we don’t have control.
WALKING A FINE LINE
Using the right line for the job is a crucial aspect in fishing. Heavy line is applied when fish around cover or tossing large baits. In this situation, I believe that a pull hard, wind fast and pull harder approach is best. I’m not worried about breaking the fish off as much as I’m concerned with them burying deep
Before each fishing trip to our favorite body of water, we find our expectations high and thoughts filled with dreams of grandeur.
in the cover or tossing the hooks. Every second they are given, they have an increased chance to put you in a bad spot and win the fight.
Light line is not recommended when fishing in or near heavy cover or using large lures. It is usually used in open water and clear water situations.
The exact amount of pressure needs to be implemented; I like to think of it as a game of tug of war. When the fish pulls hard you hold your ground and give a little, when the fish loses momentum and let’s up you gain ground back. Repeating this process until the fish tires out. Learning your gear and walking a fine line between a lot of pressure and too much is the goal.
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Winter 2021
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