Finally!

Last year was my first time going for Springers and it was a half hearted effort; the only thing I excelled at was creating some pretty amazing knot balls of fishing line and flasher.  This year I made it my goal to get out there and catch one of these amazing fish, so I’ve been reading tons of information, attended the springer clinic again this year, and have been out fishing for them every opportunity I’ve had (after work, before work, weekends)…pushed the limits a bit with my wife.  But every time I’ve headed out I’ve returned without even a nibble.  At the springer clinic on Saturday a boat hook up literately right next to me…not a single bite for me; needless to say I was getting extremely frustrating.  I figured that my luck had to change at some point…

I took advantage of the nice weather last night and headed out to Sellwood after work.  I launched from the park and headed up stream; just past the bridge I noticed about 10 boats all back trolling in the current just up past the bridge.  I had planned to troll the west side and didn’t feel like joining the party so I continued on my way.  About two hours later my wife calls and just as I answer the phone, “FISH ON!  Can…I…call you back.”  I start fumbling around trying to put my phone down tighten my drag and…it’s gone.   I WAS…a bit upset!

I quickly re-bait and get my line back in the water and troll past the area a couple more time, no dice.  So, I decided to explore the area a bit more and at about 6:00 my pole starts to dance.  I loosen my drag a bit more and BOOM, I've got another one on.  It seemed like I fought that fish for 10 minutes; every time I’d get it next to the kayak it would take off again.  It darted under the kayak three times and I was barely able to clear the bow.  Finally, I’m able to wear her out and she comes up leaning to the side.  I was able to quickly net her, get her on the boat, fist pump, and relax for a few seconds.

So, I got my first springer last night and I can’t remember the last time I felt so relaxed driving to work.

Thank you Spot and ndogg (and Jammer) for setting up the clinics and sharing your experience.

That's how it's done!  Nice work and beautiful prize!

-Spot-

Way to go man! That is a beautiful fish! Great story too...Persistence paid off.

Nice fish Dave! I think you hit the right area; I jogged down to Meldrum Bar last night and didn't see much going on... saw a few NWKA folks from afar, though, so they might have a different opinion depending on what was on board.

Way to ring in the season!

Sweet!!!!!!!

Freaking awesome! Nice work, Dave! Your first one is always the best! Enjoy it!

Just beautiful...congrats.....did ya get a weight?

*high five*
That's awesome, congrats!

My favorite part of your story was the fist pump. I was right there with ya, fist pump and all.

That is awesome!     Great story - thanks for sharing!!!

-Sam

Congrats on your first springer, she is a fatty. 
I have some other good news for you.  Craig and I decided to do a scouting mission downtown yesterday.  We did not find any fish, but I talked to a regular before we launched and some of the dragon boaters and rowers and it sounds like parking near the boat house is allowed after 3 pm.

Congratulations! Beautiful fish. Wonderful tale. Thanks for sharing both.

Like a boss!

Thanks guys.  That was an awesome experience!  Hope to have more of those soon 

Just beautiful...congrats.....did ya get a weight?

I did not get a weight...does heavy count?  Seriously though I really wish I had so I'm planning on buying a cheap digital scale for the next time.

Congrats on your first springer, she is a fatty. 
I have some other good news for you.  Craig and I decided to do a scouting mission downtown yesterday.  We did not find any fish, but I talked to a regular before we launched and some of the dragon boaters and rowers and it sounds like parking near the boat house is allowed after 3 pm.

That's great news!  Can't wait to check out that area.

Awesome fish! Congrats!

Great job getting the skunk off! Nice chrome hood ornament...