2009.03.26
A good day of striper fishing at Smith Mountain Lake
File this one in the "Even a blind hog..." category.
This is my biggest Smith Mountain Lake striper, caught during a great day I wrote about in a recent column in The Roanoke Times. We didn't weigh the 32-incher, a protected slot fish that was released right after this shot. But it was pretty fat so I estimate it was close to 15 pounds.
But I really can't take any credit. We were trolling, so the boat's captain, my friend Frank Skillman, deserves the kudos. All my buddy Pat Baker and I did was reel in the fish when the rods started bouncing. (Although I think I lost more fish than Pat, so maybe there was some skill necessary.)
The great day was all Frank's doing. He found the fish and he knew what was going to catch them (umbrella rigs). I estimate we caught at least 15 stripers, releasing all but a few under-slot-sized fish.
Frank is the tournament director for the Smith Mountain Striper Club. They are holding a member guest tournament on April 4. It would be some nice karmic justice if Frank does well. But I talked to him a couple days ago and he said it's been tough. I hope he gets on them soon.
If you want to fish the tourney but aren't a member, just call Frank at 721-1220 and he'll get the info on how to sign up. (It's cheap.)
WOW !!! Nice striper Mark.. Im not much into striper fishing but Ive caught a few in the 8-10 lb range bass fishing. specially at night on pionts throwing the ol thunder stick... what did this hit ? My tourns. are bout ready to get started. Ill keep you posted.. I will e mail you our new web page address if you are interested in checking it out......Moe
-- Thanks, Moe. Again, I can't take much credit. We were using umbrella rigs with 5-inch shad, Moe. Good luck in the tournies. Send the Web address when you get a chance. mt
Comment by Moe — March 29, 2009 @ 11:53 am