I made sure to get my licence and Snook stamp up to date and headed out September 1st, opening day. My wife and photographer had caught some small Grunts for me to use as bait. Using a inexpensive Shakespeare spinning combo with 570 Alpha reel, 20# test mono and MH 8 foot rod I rigged the grunt with a 4-0 hook under the back dorsal fin, added about 4 feet of 50# clear leader with only a 1/2 oz sinker to keep the bait down away from the birds.
On my first toss with this rig, about 6 feet from the seawall, - BAMB - going down!!!! This guy I didn't see but I was sure it was a big Snook. It wasn't the battle I was hoping for and the rod and reel stopped him before he could get very far or cut me off on the seawall or rocks but it was a thrill I will never forget. After fighting him in, I was able to lean over the seawall, grab the leader at the swivel and hoist him over the seawall to the applause of the crowd.
Best part, 32 inches on the money - a keeper. mmmmmm mmmmmmm goood.
