The last two years have been frustrating on the big fish front. I have been around fish more so the last few years than at any other time in my life. I haven't taken the camera out but a few times. 

 

My trips have been shorter because of family responsibilities and that's fine. My mother-in-law is failing rapidly and her last few years are important. Tresa(wife) and myself have talked here and there about the lack of big fish; her response almost every time is " when did catching 2-4 lb. fish become a bad thing?" I smile and don't say much and appreciate the sentiment. 

 

I have lost a few that were over 5 so I'm in the right place(s)  and never get too down. 

 

I will always feel fortunate to be on the water doing something I love in relatively good health and having the finances to do it when I want. So if 2-4 lb. fish are what happens then it's OK. 

 

I'm writing this for those that are frustrated by the lack of big fish or not getting to fish much.  If you're able to get out be thankful and fish hard. Enjoy the moment and realize it could always be worse. 

 

This was the last time my mother-in-law was able to get out and I'm grateful I was a part of this.

If you really want to catch bigger fish you need to go to where they live. 

North Carolina has no shortage of 5+ bass.

2 minutes ago, whitwolf said:

The last two years have been frustrating on the big fish front. I have been around fish more so the last few years than at any other time in my life. I haven't taken the camera out but a few times. 

 

My trips have been shorter because of family responsibilities and that's fine. My mother-in-law is failing rapidly and her last few years are important. Tresa(wife) and myself have talked here and there about the lack of big fish; her response almost every time is " when did catching 2-4 lb. fish become a bad thing?" I smile and don't say much and appreciate the sentiment. 

 

I have lost a few that were over 5 so I'm in the right place(s)  and never get too down. 

 

I will always feel fortunate to be on the water doing something I love in relatively good health and having the finances to do it when I want. So if 2-4 lb. fish are what happens then it's OK. 

 

I'm writing this for those that are frustrated by the lack of big fish or not getting to fish much.  If you're able to get out be thankful and fish hard. Enjoy the moment and realize it could always be worse. 

 

This was the last time my mother-in-law was able to get out and I'm grateful I was a part of this.

Great point, I love fishing, but sometimes take for granted the fact I'm able to do it so often! Fishing is about enjoying the time doing something you love, a big fish is a bonus and what we all hope for. I hope all works out for you and your family!