Reel Lunker  06/08/2008 - 11:37  Friends of MDfishing.org  Monocacy  Roll Your Own    Went for a float yesterday down the monocacy. The day was beautiful, the water was muddy with zero visibility which made fishing tough. What makes fishing even tougher is when you lose both of your rods when you tip your kayak. When floating through a shallow swifter area, I paddled lazily through, got turned sideways and tipped my kayak. Being stupid, I had both of my rods sitting in the rod holder with no protection from losing them. I ended up losing both of my rods in waist deep water. Luckily all my other gear was secured to the kayak. I will try to go back in a few days when the water clears up to see if I can atleast find or feel around to hopefully salvage the rods, although I don't have my hopes up. Could turn out to be an expensive donation to the river. Lessons learned: Secure all fishing gear to the kayak, and make sure all rods are in and secured in their respective rod holders. Invest in some rod leashes. Finally, dont stop paddling through moving water. (Unfortunately, these are all lessons I have read about from other peoples misfortunes.)

I am excited about getting to buy some new rods, however, it is bitter sweet having to do so in this manner. Any suggestions on new rods and reels. I plan on doing some research through In-Fisherman, Field & Stream, Bass Pro.

One plus, we were able to float within 30 yards of a bald eagle and her eaglet sitting in the tree top which was quite a sight to see that close. Later saw them again downriver flying 100 yards off the bank.