Warning: Beware the wrath of a flounder

For the past year or so, I have focused on learning how to fish finesse lures. After much experimentation, the Z-Man Finesse TRD on a 1/5-ounce NedLockZ jig became my favorite lure. It is highly productive in all conditions. So, I fish with it most of the time.  
 
Recently, my son Elliott returned home from Japan and shared how Japanese anglers catch lots of fish with micro finesse lures. These are tiny lures that are between 1 and 2 inches in length. On Friday afternoon, I set out on my first micro finesse angling adventure.  
 
It was a learning experience.
 
The tide was falling when I launched the Pathfinder and the current was really strong. This made it very difficult to get the tiny and light jig to hit the bottom. After a few minutes, I decided to wait until the tide slowed down. During the break, I rigged up my 6-foot, 6-inch ultra-light spinning outfit and practiced casting the ultra-small and light lures. It did a much better job than my regular 7-foot light outfit. 
 
The learning curve on the micro finesse technique was steep. I began to wonder if it was a worthwhile endeavor. Brody kept looking at me with the “when are you going to catch a fish” look. Eventually, he gave up waiting and took a nap on the back deck.
 
When the tide slowed down a bit, I picked up the ultra-light outfit and began fishing. Brody kept on napping. After a few casts, I felt a slight tick as the lure bounced along the bottom. The ultra-light rod bent over deeply, and a huge trout wallowed on the surface.
 
The drag on my reel was set too tight and the tiny hook on the micro finesse jig pulled. 
 
Yes, the micro finesse learning curve was steep.
 
After regaining my composure, I started fishing again and began to get comfortable with the micro finesse technique. Then it happened. A solid strike. Fish on. The lighter drag setting on my reel did its job and the 6-pound braid peeled off the spool at an alarming rate. I was sure another monster trout had eaten my lure.  
 
It turned out to be a small flounder.  
 
Regardless, I was happy and Brody was super excited. He kept on licking the fish. After I took a picture of my first micro finesse lure catch, the flounder bit Brody on the lip. It only took a second for the flounder to release Brody and for me to release the flounder. 
 
However, Brody insists that we make a Public Service Announcement: Flounder have teeth and are subject to use them when licked. Anglers and dogs beware!
 
Contact Captain Greg Peralta at captgregp@gmail.com or call 843-224-0099.

Daniel Island Publishing

225 Seven Farms Drive
Unit 108
Daniel Island, SC 29492 

Office Number: 843-856-1999
Fax Number: 843-856-8555

 

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