By Jessica Harris Hendrie
There’s nothing like seeing that rod bend and scream as a big fish takes off with your bait. Recently, I had quite the experience with a huge mutton snapper in Puerto Rico and it’s a story worth telling. It was a warm and sunny day off the reef in the PR. It was calm for the most part and the perfect sea breeze was going on. The all-around perfect fishing day. I love when the weather actually cooperates! I was fishing with live bait and not exactly expecting to catch a mutton snapper, let alone a big one like this. I was leaning more towards the yellowtails so I could cook and prepare those for us when we got back to the house. But it took a turn. Everyone on the boat could see the fight was on as soon as it bit. Once we started to see color, we could tell it was a mutton. Unfortunately, at this time, mutton snapper were protected so we couldn’t enjoy the tasty fish that it could have been but I’m happy we got to safely release her and let her bring more babies into the world. I was able to snap a few photos and watch everyone smile as I proudly held her up. It was her time to shine! Mutton Snappers are truly beautiful fish. So bright and colorful. This specific catch actually taught me a lot. It taught me the importance of patience and admiration. It’s remarkable how each fishing trip can teach you something new every time. Catching this beautiful fish was a highlight in my fishing world. It’s moments like these that make all the early mornings, hours of preparation and waiting and traveling to each spot worth it. I can’t wait to get back there with my family, see our old new friends and see what else the PR waters has in store for us. It may have been my first time there, but it surely won’t be my last. Until next time, Puerto Rico fisheries! Happy Fishing!