Thursday, June 9, 2011

The last day fishing Illinois


The ponds we fished

I really didn't plan to get out again on Illinois waters after the final day on my ponds, but you never know how things will work out. A neighbor's mom and step-dad have become 2 of our closest friends since we located here in IL. He is a fanatical waterfowler - he is retired and hunts EVERY DAY of the waterfowl season. He is a member of a Hunt/ fish club nearby, and likes to get out every once in a while for some bass fishing on their club waters. I was given an invitation during my 2 weeks between jobs, and I managed to squeeze in one more morning on the water.

This is the second time I've been on this water with Reid. The ponds are bigger than the ones I fish - we fish these out of a 12' jon boat. The water is clear and has great weed growth. I always feel like we should catch more than we do, but it is a great place.





The morning we fished, it was sunny and clear, with a high of near 90. We got a few hits on Senko-styled worms, but I finally "unlocked" the secret for the day with a pearl Zoom fluke. Which is sort of interesting, because I almost NEVER use flukes! We ended up catching 16 largemouth. Most were small, but Reid got one nice one (see picture).

Spending a beautiful morning with a friend on a neat piece of water is about the best way to end your fishing career in Illinois. I think I 'll quit while I'm ahead!



Bluegill beds near the shoreline

10 comments:

cofisher said...

Really nice Joe! I hope your new waters are as good to you. Best of luck in the new location and safe travels.

Anonymous said...

Nice wrap up to your fishing time in Illinois, Joe. I am going to miss your reports from the ponds you like near home. Look forward to Maryland fishing stories on the horizon.

murphyfish said...

A bitter-sweet days fishing for you my friend, tight lines on your new waters.
John

Brk Trt said...

Good luck in your new home.
I kinda miss those flower photos.

Kirk Mantay said...

Look me up when you get here!

Wolfy said...

Brk Trt - Not to worry - the house we just finalized the contract on has a great garden and some terrific butterflies. More yard pics to come!

Clover Pass Resort said...

I loved reading your updates and stories, Glad Illinois has treated you so well. Nothing like a great day out on the pond. I think the life expectancy for people who fish is longer :)

EcoRover said...

Hope you enjoy Maryland fishing as much as your old homewater--I think you will. It's the nature of fishing, getting taken in by the local ecology, figuring out what the fish are doing and how you can (and some days can't) catch a few, and enjoying the company of a friend or two.

Anonymous said...

Congrats on your new place! I look forward to hearing your new adventures and opportunities!

Also...Nice fish Reid!

Black bass fishing said...

Awesome trip and great post. I have got to see a pic Thanks great fishing stories!