Lost musky on the Lehigh river

[Matt L]

So a couple weeks ago, I posted how I saw two muskies mating in the Lehigh river but never caught one. Took my dad up to this area I have fished 20 times before. Throwing brown tubes for smallmouth I hook up to a monster. Comes out of the water. Huge fish. Like out of a fishing show in tv. Completely out of the water, massive musky.

Get him half in the net, big net i have put 20lb stripers, and the hook gets caught on the net and we can,t get him totally in the net, half in the net, halfout, too heavy to lift the net and try to flip the fish in. Fish well in the 30lb range, length 45 inch range, wide and fat and gone. I could have cried. I am in between never wanting to fish again, and wanting to go out at first light if that makes any sense.

All on 8lb test in a moving river. 20 minute fight. Angry depressed, need therapy. That is all. Thanks for listening.

[rooferbird]

I feel your pain brother, we have all been there in one way or another. At least you got to do everything but get a picture, I'd be back out there tomorrow throwing the big stuff looking for that hungry beast. Happy Hunting

[Matt L]

I can see why folks become hooked on these fish. Fish was incredible, just an amazing fight, long stalemates where I couldn't,t even move the fish, then powerful runs. We had him, fish was tired out, just couldn't close the deal. All I wanted was a picture and a measurement.

[jimmythegreek]

I guess you finally got your 10,000 casts in and nailed one! if he was in ur net u landed it technically, and thats amazing on 8 lb test in a river no less. They are amazing fish, I dont know how the diehards do it. They go out days on end without catching anything and then the one bite makes it all worth it. Regardless, go back and throw some bigger stuff, theres more in there for sure.........good job

[Matt L]

Yeah, that's what my dad said too. Technically its a catch. Lots of luck involved to get that close. Hook was buried on the outside so he couldn't cut the line. He stayed out behind the Boat as we drifted. Couldn't believe he stayed on after an amazing jump. Hard to express just how big the fish was, drifted probably 1000 yards from the time it was hooked. Loosen the drag, tighten the drag, let him run, try and move him.

[AndyS]

They say you will remember the one that got away more than the one you caught. It's got a silver lining.

[Jetdrive]

Just one of those incredible things that happen in the act of fishing. That is what it is all about.

[FASTEDDIE29]

Great story man. Must of been a heart pounding experience. Lots of Musky in that river with little access. Go get em again!!!