Great Fishing 11/28

[Tailwater]

Fished for about 3 hours just down from the trail from the parking lot across from the hatchery, after eating too much turkey the day before. Once I found some current, I landed 3 dink stockers on a copper midge, and then decided to fish a trailer size 14 prince nymph. About the 3rd cast, I had a violent strike and then a meaty splash from a big fish (at least in my book). He gave me two real hard runs towards the dam, and stripped me down to my backing in about 10 seconds. I turned him, got some line back on, and then had two more runs to the backing. With help from my Dad, I landed him, took time to measure him at 19", and then safely released. Absolute PIG of a fish, with great colors, and obvious strength. Heck of a time to forget my camera in the car, but what a Thanksgiving memory!

I think we all are very blessed to have such an outstanding fishery, and long live the length limit at Taneycomo! I would much rather have the chance to catch a big fish than harvest a few stockers every now and then.