I got up early and had the boat on the water while it was still
dark.
I started with topwater, but nothing was interested. Finally, I hooked a nice smallmouth on a crankbait right next to the boat. After a good fight, just as it was sliding along
side it gave one little flip and was gone.
I think I woke up some lakefront residents. At least I knew they would eat it.
About twenty minutes later I hooked another big smallie, when it jumped I squeaked like a mouse. I didn't have a net and it looked
like I would need one. After a fifteen minute fight, and to the applause of the people on the trail I landed a 20 inch by 16 inches around beauty. I guesstimate it was just under six pounds.

---