It is rare that I take stats of the fish I catch. A quick photo here and there is the real reward (it also helps with the shameless bragging). However this time of year I will take a few weights and measurements as bass both large and smallmouth will often display some of their best numbers. Due to extra time involved with this exercise the photos are reduced to one quick shot just to say I did.
(Above: 4lb 1oz. 19” length)
Creature baits were the ticket and more of what I expect for this time of year in Colorado. Dark colors were the only thing I tried and didn’t get any love on the crank or spinnerbait. Wind was not a factor from 8:15 AM to 8:30 AM. Hunkered down in one small cove most of the morning.
Mattsabasser note: This time of year is most crucial for bass. As the near their prespawn and spawning periods they become overly aggressive and territorial. This behavior can lead to their downfall if over harvest and bad handling occurs. Crimping barbs, and removing hooks carefully is key to keeping those fabulous bucket mouth lips pristine and not all mangled. Releasing the fish as quickly as possible should be understood and accepted practice to preserve the sport.
My name is Matt and I’m a fishaholic.
8 comments:
Matt
I couldn't agree more about the release. Some guys think they have to keep fish like you landed, and even bigger. What they don't understand is they are ruining the success of the species by taking the fish from its surroundings. The fish will never get a chance to spawn. Keep spreading the news about catch and release. Thanks for sharing this great post, and congrats on a super catch.
I think the take-away point worth noting is that you figured them out. You mentioned lures and colors, but you figured out a pattern for the bigger ones. This is the difference between those who catch fish and those who don't. We know what it is we were doing and why we caught them. We become very nonchalant about it all, but we still enjoy ourselves.
Hey Matt. Nice Bucket Mouths. Always good to remind those fishing this time of year, to be gentle.
Mark
Very nicely done Matt! The bucket mouths have kicked my ass so far this spring, but it is still early in the game.
Your pictures go without notice? there's nothing to be ashamed of here. Nice catch
@Bill: I do what I can. Last year Colorado lost a lot of big buckets according to the Master Angler (kept) section. Putting big fish back goes a long ways to preserve the now and future of the sport.
@BFD: It is about darn time you left a comment on my blog! Very much appreciate you stopping by.
@Shoreman: Thanks, Mark. My blog starts to sound like an after school special with my conservation rants. Glad to see folks appreciate the sentiment.
@BigBrownTrout: This season is starting out slow and colder than normal. Very glad you added a comment. I have been following your blog for a while. Great stuff.
@Sage: Honored you stopped by. Huge fan of your blog for over a year now. Great writing.
Your appreciation of the fish and the environment has been duly noted on your blog since way back when I started following your adventures. Fishing preservation is at stake. Thanks for your interest in maintaining our fisheries.
We have to get on warm water stuff. Each weekend comes, and we still go chase those cold trout. With all the ponds around, we need to hit up a game that is familiar. I am going to make Dustin sit down and read your posts to get him in the mood.
-stephanie
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