Reels screeming, I start pedaling hard and count down. I grab the rod and flip the bail. Hook set. Reel is still screeming, there goes the top shot (it's worn short) now my spectra backing is peeling out. I start making some ground...and then the kelp. I can feel it. That grimy subtle vibration you can feel in the line. I pop a few strands, and boom dead stop. I'm caught good. No big deal, I'll get it in time. Then all slack. I reel like mad. Maybe in turned and ran towards me...one can hope. Then I feel it... Is that my fly lined Mac on the end? NO it's a damn 6" calico perfectly mouth hooked with a 5/0 hook.
That was the toughest SOB in the ocean. Have him a kiss on the head and told him not to get too big or next time he will rip me off my yak.