Brookfield, Illinois

Awesome maiden voyage on "the Pig" with my buddy Pete. We couldn't locate any toothy monsters, but we each had a few smallies and he got one Bucketmouth. Looking forward to wreaking havoc on the Pike and Walleye on the boat often with him. He's my most persistent fishing buddy, so we should do well. Ankles mostly healed up too, so hoping to get out again soon.

Pike check ✔️ Both on Mepps #5 in 6 feet of water.

Quick stop 🐈🐟

Lil Jack to close the day, healthy release 🐊

Got her 30 minutes after her first two strikes missed the jerkbait. 5.5" Death Pause Minnow did the job. Always return for a second round!!! Her Gill rakers got me decently as I was releasing her, she went ballistic. But in typical fashion, I celebrated the victory by pouring cheap tequila smelling hand sanitizer on it and kept casting 😂

First bass of the year. Crushed the giant Bluegill Death Pause Minnow!

"I fish to scratch the surface of those mysteries, for nearness to the beautiful, and to reassure myself the world remains. I fish to wash off some of my grief for the peace we so squander. I fish to dip into that great and awesome pool of power that propels these epic migrations." - Carl Safina

Just another tiny jack the other day. Haven't been able to fish all week due to work, so really looking forward to getting out this weekend.