Was fishing some pits Saturday afternoon/evening and thought I’d try for some crappies. Only managed 3 of them, as I believe they were a bit farther out than my jigs would reach. So I started cranking, and wow is it game on with this weather. Ended up with 22 LMB. While there were no piggies, I did get one that was nearly 16″, but looked like a tank. But the real catch of the day was the last fish, which ended up being a 39″ northern that inhaled my Bomber. I wasn’t sure I’d get her in as I saw line going into her mouth, Bomber never to be seen again, I was sure. I somehow wrestled her onto shore, pounced on her and snapped a few pics. I saw a chart that states 39″= 16.9lbs, and I do believe this fish was all of that, possibly more. Wrecked my arm, that’s for sure. This is the biggest pike I’ve ever personally seen, with Mike’s a few weeks back a very, very close 2nd. Released so we can hopefully catch her when she’s over 40″. Judging by how thick she was, it probably won’t be long at the rate she’s eating.
And yes, Mike, this was on the back-up camera, and no net! 
jerr