Pole Benders at the Texas Land Cut

What a great spring break fishing trip to the Texas Land Cut. It has been a while since making this trip but the timing couldn't have been better. However, due to the morning fog and low visibility we had to fly by instruments using our GPS and cruising speed of 38 mph. We weren't sure what to expect for the day since we only had dead shrimp and "fish bites" for bait. 

We ended up with some nice Pole Benders at the land cut catching black drum and redfish on a nice overcast day with a slight breeze. Had a great time fishing with Travis Weatherston and Aaron DeVictoria. The competition started when Travis pulled in the first pole bender at 24 inches. Then I was able to wrestle in a 28 incher while Aaron captured a 26 incher.

Travis Weatherston released this 33" black drum

Later in the day, on my "last cast" fishing pole, I grabbed another pole bender at 27 inches and felt secure in the largest catches for the day. I graciously put my fishing pole away and gave the boys 30 minutes to top me or we'd have to leave. About 10 minutes before the "times up"... Bam! Travis grabs this 33 inch black drum, the largest pole bender of the day.

Aaron DeVictoria released 34" black drum

As soon as Travis lands his drum,.. Bam! Aaron's pole bends and lands a 34 inch black drum tying a 2009 "boat" record with a 34 inch black drum. So each of us on our "Last Cast" caught a 27 inch, 33 inch, and 34 inch black drum. Thanks Manual! Shameless plug for my friend who's built my "Last Cast" rods.

Catching a couple nice 26 inch redfish while we're out there was a little icing on the cake. 

So whats a "pole bender"? Today they're black drum. Their fight is distinctly different then other fish. When you catch one they're slow methodical creatures that bend your pole by using their weight or girth and tall sail like body to put the breaks on from being pulled in towards the boat. Your pole will be bending the whole time you're attempting to land the fish. They're just a lot of fun to catch... and eat as well!

Really had a great time fishing with these guys! We caught several pole benders today and was an all around great day of fishin!

Dave Alexander

dave@justgofishin.com