Spent all day at jury duty. I took the train down and left my gear at home since I didn't really plan on fishing afterwards.
The surf looked so good from the train I changed my mind and went home to grab the goods.
I got in touch with Ray and decided to meet him at a spot he had fished last night. He got stuck at work so I made a quick exploratory stop at a new to me spot. The dolphins were in so close I was casting well beyond them, but I'm pretty sure one took my bait as they moved further out.
Decided to make the move before it got dark and set up on a familiar beach. No bites, then Ray showed up and got his gear ready to fish.
After the usual discussions of gear and techniques I get bit.
A few minutes later and I get a bump. Let it sit for a couple minutes and decide to check my bait. A couple cranks and line starts coming off the reel.
Then I get my lesson. Another bite, while Ray's offerings go untouched, a short fight and as the fish nears shore, a break off. Ray is right on it, checking for a pigtail sign of a bad knot. Nope, frayed line. Should have checked better after that seven gill. Have I learned my lesson? Not so far I guess.
Good to meet you in person, Ray. Thanks for landing my fish. Hope to return the favor next time.