[Lard Almighty]

Looking back on the year, I didn't catch a whole lot of big fish. I did, however, have my best weekend of fishing ever on the Raritan River, catching schoolie stripers and walleye on Saturday, then landing what would wind up being my biggest smallie of the year on Sunday. That was the pinnacle of the season, but I did have a few other memorable catches, like what might have been the biggest largemouth I've ever caught in NJ, what might have been the biggest crappie I've ever caught anywhere, and an accidental carp while trying to learn how to fish a Ned rig on light tackle. I also finally christened the kayak with some fish slime.

Spent numerous weekends at my new cabin as well. Fishing was solid, but I haven't figured out the really big ones yet. Now that I finally have a boat up there, I'll hit it hard next year and unlock its secrets.