I went to my pond this afternoon to check the rain gauge (1.35 inches) and to fish a bit. We have had severe drought with temps 98+ so I used a Slider worm for slow presentation.

I cast to a patch of water that looked promising. Just as the worm hit the water, I saw a large turtle head poke up a foot away. I turned the reel handle twice and realized I had accidentally foul hooked the turtle on its neck. I was using a light weight rod with 10 lb Fireline so I had to work it slowly. I managed to get the turtle to the bank for a good look. It was a common snapper - we also have some LARGE alligator snappers in my pond.

Holding the rod in one hand, I stepped back to my golf cart to get my trusty 22 magnum revolver. By then the turtle was swimming off. I managed to get it back to the bank again - its huge head was right at my feet. I held the rod high in my left hand and aimed the revolver with right hand. Suddenly the turtle lurched left and broke my line and I missed the kill shot.

I wish there had been a camera to record me with rod high in one hand and revolver in the other hand. Marlin Perkins Wild Adventure for sure.

In case you ask why I wanted to dispatch the turtle--a few months ago a buddy of mine caught a 4 pound LMB that got hung up on a shallow log. He paddled over to release the LMB and heard a splash. When he retrieved the fish, he had a set of treble hooks holding the head of a 4 LB bass. Only the head!! The turtle had eaten the body in one bite.

Anything that eats my 4 LB bass (other than me) is in jeopardy at my pond. That fish might have been my first 8-10 pounder in a few years.

Mr. Turtle is a very unwelcome guest.

Frank

Book Owner and Magazine Subscriber 3 acre pond central GA