Catching No Perch but Netting a Bonus Big Pike at Navy Pier

A Tale of Unlikely Catch

Jose Sandoval found sometimes it is not the fish you’re looking for, but something even better. Take last Wednesday when he was fishing for perch at Navy Pier and landed a big northern pike.

The Unexpected Catch

"I had nothing to measure or weigh it, but my guesstimate is somewhere around 36 inches and at least 10 pounds," he emailed. "I was out for the perch without success or a single nibble till this guy hooked on. I don’t know how my Perch Pounder rig managed to hang on without ripping and I did not have a net to pull him up."

A Lifesaver’s Help

But the "cool guy" fishing next to him, named Andrew, helped Sandoval land it while Sandoval "climbed down the ladder to pull [the pike] out of the water."

The Power of Community

The story of Sandoval’s big catch is a reminder that even when the fishing isn’t going as planned, something special can still happen. It’s also a testament to the power of community and the importance of having a good "spotter" on the water.

Fishing for Perch, Catching a Surprise

Sandoval’s experience is a great reminder for all anglers: you never know what’s lurking beneath the surface, and sometimes the biggest catches come from unexpected places. As Sandoval himself noted, "I don’t know how my Perch Pounder rig managed to hang on without ripping and I did not have a net to pull him up."

Conclusion

In the end, Sandoval’s story is a reminder to always be prepared, be open to new experiences, and appreciate the unexpected surprises that come with fishing. And who knows, you might just catch a big one like Sandoval did!

FAQs

• Q: What species of fish did Sandoval catch?
  A: A big northern pike, estimated to be around 36 inches and 10 pounds.
• Q: Where did Sandoval catch the fish?
  A: Navy Pier.
• Q: How did Sandoval land the fish without a net?
  A: With the help of his neighbor, Andrew, who assisted him in pulling the pike out of the water.
• Q: How can I submit my own fishing story for FOTW?
  A: Email BowmanOutside@gmail.com or contact Dale Bowman on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.