Arrived to my Florida house last night, and stepped outside to take a look at the pond. I saw bass busting all along the reeds on the shoreline, and saw lots of fry in the water. I went back inside, grabbed my rod, and proceeded to tie on a gambler big EZ with a 1/4oz 5/0 weighted hook. This big girl swirled twice on the bait before I finally got a good hook set. I had a 7'3 mag heavy rod and 50lb braid and I still struggled to haul this beast in. Unfortunately, I didn't have a scale and I am conservatively putting this fish at  seven pounds. It looked like it was about to explode with eggs. Also, does anyone know if the marks on her body are a parasite? Or are they just wounds from the upcoming spawn?

I will be buying a scale today!!

Congrats on your new PB.

Like Dwight Hottle said, "Congratulations on your new personal best".  Good story Mlbassin, it and sounds like you're in the right place and at the right time to maybe break your record again.  As for the rash on her side, maybe someone at the local tackle shop can better answer your question.  I don't think it will prevent her from spawning and passing on those big fish genetics.  Good fishing

Congrats on the new PB! 

Jeff

Congrats! And good on ya for buying a scale next...

Congrats!

I doubt the marks are from spawning activity. Nice fish!

Good looking catch.  Congrats.

The spots though idk why they appear I know that bodies of water with bass having them always have ALOT of bass 

great job, sir!

 

 

I hope you washed your hands. I believe that fish has had a lot of partners over the years and is having a serious outbreak of dat herp… lol 

Congrats! That's a chunk!!!

Sweet,Congrats on your PB

Congratulations on the PB!

Congrats on the PB.

nice fish!