So what did she hit???

With 4lb? I would guess shiners.

Correct.

I also fished a Silver Buddy and GYCB Single Tail Grubs on a different rig. On this particular day, artificials worked as well or better than shiners, but neither produced a "keeper" smallmouth except for the one that got away. Although we will definitely buy some minnows, I think a jig is going to my main weapon on this particular structure. Another lure I want to throw here is a 3/4 oz Ledgebuster Single Willow Blade.

We will fish the exact spot of course, but I'm really jazzed about opening up "new" structure. The channel is maintained by the Corps of Engineers and/or TVA and extends through the entire river system. That's something for all the other guys in this region to think about. And by the way, technically I'm fishing Kentucky Lake which is our destination for next year's BR Roadtrip! So get ready.

8-)

Yes, line snapping happens to all of us.

Sorry you missed the fish but you know where she lives so go back and get her.  

great play by play

sorry you didn't land her

That sucks RW.   You will get it though.  Keep it up.

Kent,

Sorry to read this.  I check my line often and retie at least a handful of times throughout the day.

Hope you get her next time!  

Not knowing! That's what keeps you up at night. I got broken off at the boat this spring on what I think was a PB black. I felt a burr in my line but we were about to leave so I didn't retie. Sure enough I hook a hog and she broke off AT THE BOAT! No doubt she was double digits but I still think she could have beaten my pb of 11lbs 02.

It will haunt you for a long time. But it will also be a lot of fun trying to meet up with her again. Good luck!

Well, we both "knew better". There is no excuse, except for stupid,

that anyone should be broken off in open water. Check your line,

retie your knot (often) and set your drag properly, it's that simple.

8-)

Man Kent, regardless of the outcome it was a great read. Well you can look at what might have been but I would try not to think about it. We live and learn. Next time, and there will be a next time, you'll be ready. This may be the year!

Chris

Great story, terrible ending! Hope to see a sequel with a better outcome.  

Good luck to ya Kent.

Rick

RW, I found myself fishing yesterday in open water checking and re-tieing my line often because of your story. I too become lax when the fish are small or the bite is slow, but not anymore. Thanks for the story and sorry the outcome wasn't different.

AHHHHHH!  Great story RW, I'm sure that fish will remain on your mind til your final days.  

tough break man.  hope you get another crack at her (or an even better one).  keep after 'em man.  we can't let cali take our smallmouth record. ;D

great story i want to see pictures next time, good luck and find her again!