A Maiden Voyage on Lake Smith Proves Memorable

That's how Ron described today's trip--one that he only decided at the last minute to take. After being skunked yesterday, he had decided to take a day off, but given the nice weather he found upon leaving work, he headed to Lake Smith. Besides, said Ron, "I already had paid $40 for the annual Norfolk lake pass."

A boat pulled into the ramp with some nice crappie as Ron was launching his yak, so he asked a few questions and was given a tip: "The wind is your friend."

Ron followed the advice and fished the windward side of the lake. He slow-trolled a beetlespin and a road runner, while tossing a Shadow Rap to shore and structure. Managing three lines while battling the wind was a real challenge, but he came up with six white perch before making a cast with the shadow rap that will live in his memory for a long time to come.

In his words, "I hooked the biggest bass I've ever had on a line, complete with an adrenaline rush from the drag screaming and the pole bending. Without a doubt, it was bigger than my Oceana 5-pounder of last year." Unfortunately, though, the giant fish left him heartbroken with one shake of his huge head.

Shortly afterward, Ron did catch a personal best 13.75-inch, 1-8 crappie, as well as another one that measured 12.5 inches and weighing 1-2 (the two fish in the accompanying photos), which gave him "dinner on the stringer."

"All in all," concluded Ron, "it was a great first trip to Lake Smith, and I look forward to going back." He recognizes, however, that crowds likely will become an issue.