Bass Baiting Chronicles: A Mainland Return and Goheung Adventure

After two years of island life in Jeju, the call of the mainland—and more specifically, the call of the bass—was too strong to resist. In a whirlwind of excitement, my fishing gear and I made the journey back to the mainland, setting our sights on Goheung, a bass fishing haven. The anticipation was palpable, and as soon as the mainland came into view, I was off, destination: Goheung’s reservoirs.

A Reservoir Reunion

The first reservoir I visited was a familiar one, a setting where I had spent some memorable hours two years prior. The water was at capacity, a sight that stirred my fishing spirit. I greeted the waters, hoping the bass could hear my excitement, and was greeted by what seemed like an army of baby bass. Their numbers were impressive, a testament to the fertile waters that had nurtured them.

Spinnerbait Beginnings

My first cast was a 3/8 ounce spinnerbait, a tried and true choice for bass fishing. The fresh water flowing into the reservoir added an element of unpredictability to my fishing adventure. I’d heard rumors of lunkers lurking in these waters, but two years ago, the reservoir was home to smaller fish. Perhaps time had been kind to the population, allowing the earlier small fry to grow into the giants I was seeking.

The Elusive Lunkers

Despite my best efforts, the baby bass remained the most active. I felt the frustration of a fisherman who had hoped for bigger catches. The little ones would approach the spinnerbait with gusto but would often fall off on the way up, leaving me with a sense of disappointment. The question on my mind was simple: where were the big ones?

Buzz Baiting at a New Reservoir

After a fruitless session, I decided to change my tactics and location. A different reservoir beckoned, a place I knew well but had yet to conquer. The conditions were perfect for buzz bait fishing, and I was eager to test my luck. Equipped with an XH rod, I was ready for the challenge. However, my excitement was marred by a red worm that had somehow become stained by the lure it was stored with—a lesson in organization for future fishing trips.

The Buzz Bait Triumph

The reservoir was a buzz bait paradise, and I knew I was in the right place. Suddenly, a fish took the bait, and I was engaged in a thrilling battle. The fish fought hard, and in the heat of the moment, I neglected to use my back strength, relying instead on my arm strength. The result was a broken fishing rod, a casualty of a successful catch. The fish, a beautiful specimen, was just under five inches, a respectable size but not the lunker I had dreamed of. Despite the broken rod, I felt a mix of satisfaction and frustration.

Improvisation and Ingenuity

With my XH rod out of commission, I was left with only one rod to continue my buzz baiting adventure. I decided to use the remaining rod, hoping it would serve the purpose. The challenge was not just in casting but also in hooking, as the setup was not ideal. I threw the lure myself, bypassing the broken blank and guide, and was pleasantly surprised by the distance I could achieve. It was a testament to adaptability and the spirit of fishing.

The Final Casts

As the day wore on, I decided to make one last attempt at a catch with the broken rod. I had promised myself not to overdo it, but the urge to catch just one more fish was overpowering. I switched to an MH rod for the final casts, hoping to end the day on a high note. The reservoir was alive with activity, but the fish were elusive. Despite the challenges, I felt a deep sense of satisfaction, knowing that I had given it my all.

Reflection and Renewal

As the sun began to set, I packed up my gear, reflecting on the day’s adventures. The broken rod, the sweat-soaked clothes, and the sense of camaraderie with the bass were all part of the experience. Fishing is not just about the catch; it’s about the journey, the moments of solitude, and the connection with nature. I left the reservoir with a promise to return, to continue my quest for the elusive lunkers, and to perfect my buzz baiting technique.

Closing Thoughts

Fishing is a sport that demands patience, resilience, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. My journey from Jeju to Goheung was not just a geographical move; it was a dive into the heart of bass fishing. The days were filled with the thrill of the chase, the joy of a successful catch, and the humility that comes from facing defeat. Goheung’s reservoirs, with their hidden secrets and challenges, offered a new chapter in my fishing story. And as I look forward to my next adventure, I am reminded of the bond that unites all anglers—the love for the water, the fish, and the endless pursuit of the perfect catch.