Kayak Fishing Adventures on Big Water’s Edge - very late post

After showing some mild interest in kayaking, my wife gave me a used Outback as a birthday present last summer. Having fished 50 years from boats, banks and docks, I have been trying to get the hang of this new platform, mostly fishing local spots around Dana Point for bass, rockfish and short halibut. Made a late decision to try La Jolla and launched into the surf – that was interesting - around 8:30am on Friday, 4/23. Moving west along the N edge of the kelp, fishing with iron and macs, I saw bait being pushed a couple of times, so decided to stay in the area. At about 11:30 my fly-lined mac was slammed - he never let on that he saw it coming – and I let it run 20 or 30 seconds before setting up. With 6-0 hook and 30lb mono I felt pretty good, especially as he pulled me into more open water (I’ve since learned I was under-gunned on straight 30). Anyway, every time he ran it was away from structure so I was thinking WSB. After about 10 min Kevin (The Kid, on BD) paddled by and began to offer encouragement and helpful advice. Another 10 min went by and Kevin changed his mind and said YT, which proved to be the right call when it finally came to color. I made a clean head shot with the gaff and Kevin came in close to help secure things, and take some nice pics – my personal favorite:
Attachment 2252

Heading in on cloud 9 and was near the buoy before I realize I lost my paddle somewhere along the way, so I made a quick tour back through the area, but for nothing. The surf crossing was even more interesting coming in and I felt fortunate to have all my gear – I’ve got to practice this! As for my yellow tail, I didn’t get it weighed but at the truck it measured 45” from nose to fork and has been wonderful on the grill for many. Thanks again to Kevin for his timely arrival and assistance!

-JimE
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