Sandy Hook Flukasaurus

[Islander II]

Left the barn late morning to do some solo C and R on tog in a nice light west wind. Slow start with a couple nice sea bass, a few striped ones, and as the tide chanced so did the wind. I had to reset twice as I kept swinging off the piece. Getting frustrated I decided to see what might by hanging around the wreck, put on a bucktail, casted away from the boat, jigged twice, and I got hammered. Thinking it was another striper, as he made several good runs. Got the fish to the top and was surprised to see a doormat. Of course the net wasn't within reach, but I managed to net this monster. It was 14lbs on the boga, but Atlantic Bait and Tackle's official scale had hi at 13.43lbs. My PB beating a 12.5l ber. Couldn't begin to explain the thoughts going through my head to keep it or release it. I decided to get it skin mounted as they look the best. Also I have released my share of big fish. Wound up with 8 keeper tog to 5lbs, which all where released but one, and the mat. Good day in my book! Thanks for the pic Gerry.