I worked a section of faster water with my plopper and my bait got smoked by something substantial The drag started screaming as the fish took off down river. I anticipated the typical aerial show from a big smallie, but this fish never jumped, but rather, it just bulldogged in the heavy current, I even though that maybe I snagged a carp or a kitty.
Finally the fish started to tire and I got my first look at my lost, striped friend.

Clearly, this fish missed the last bus to the Sound with his school buddies back in June, but was happy spending the summer up north.

Only a schoolie of around 21” or 22” but he fought with a spirit and attitude like his big sisters.

Good stuff on a light rod.