First float of the year

[Rollo]

The tease of Spring prompted us to load up the yaks and wet the lines for the first time this year. Had originally wanted to hit the lake but my skinny water buddies talked me into floating the river, and so glad they did. Bite was non-existent until around 1pm. Found some schools of small spots that were eager but didn't get into quality fish until later, and deeper. Hanging around cover in deeper water, we managed to pull two 20"+ smallies and several smaller ones. Was hoping to catch a few but didn't expect a day like this. Great weather, great scenery, great company and an all around good time. Glad to be back in the yak!

 

[RUGER]

Wow that looks like a great time!!!

 

[Crappieaddict]

Nice fish! You've got that yak set up great!

 

[Grandslam11]

Nice one. Congrats.

 

[Rollo]

Thanks! First pics is my buddy's rig and he's upgrading to a Jackson. These pics are of my current river rig but selling it today and getting a Nucanoe Flint. Just want a slightly longer boat with the open deck. All of these boats are super stable and can easily stand to fish.

 

[Crappieaddict]

While most of my fishing is on the lake in an older bass boat, I had an opportunity to buy two Hobie Mauis a couple of years ago, for $450/pair from a friend. I couldn't pass it up, and thoroughly enjoy it! While I'm not comfortable standing (never tried), they are fairly stable. I enjoy river fishing float trips on Caney Fork, Clinch, and the French Broad, as well as some "skinny" lake areas. I've never ventured out in winter, but am seriously thinking of it in the next couple of weeks.

 

[Buzzard Breath]

I didn't need to see this. I've been dreaming about fishing since deer season has been up. Nice fish and thanks for posting.

 

[Crappieaddict]

I saw a post on another forum about two weeks ago, and the guy is credible. He caught around 200 fish, Brookies and crappie, primarily, in a tailwater. Now, I just have to find time to go!

 

[larry ipock]

Nice smallmouth. What was the water temp? I love to catch Spots, They are becoming my favorite fish to catch.

 

[Rollo]

Nice smallmouth. What was the water temp? I love to catch Spots, They are becoming my favorite fish to catch.

Thanks! Yeah, love catching spots as well. Just usually don't get the size of the Smallmouth but still put up a good fight. Didn't have my electronics on this boat so don't have an exact temp. I'd say high 40's probably. Hopefully can go back this week and find out

 

[Whitetaillane8]

That's great

 

[Heath423]

Smallmouths are always good for a line stretching. I have threatened to float the Sequatchie River before, but it still has not happened.