I started the day out trying to avoid that Bangkok traffic at 5:30am. My taxi driver knew where Shadow Lake was so with all my gear we were off. My main target was any one of the many Carp species represented and any Featherback species. I got some tips from some locals and just began experimenting with doughbaits. A little of this and a little of that and don’t forget the coconut milk. I made several different concoctions hoping to find the ultimate blend.
Fishing was slow until my Calcutta began smoking from the bait clicker. I love that sound it makes, by the way. Fish On! Could it be a Carp or one of the many Catfish species there. I set the hook and brought it in and chalk another new life-lister up for me, the Bighead Carp. That’s right, the species everybody loves back home. I usually say, “there are no ugly fish, just cosmetically challenged ones. Well, the Bighead has got to be the most challenged of all.
I managed to catch a second Bighead but this one was bigger. I would guess more like 20+lb. range.
It seems like I found the right formula for them Bigheads. I can bring some back with me so you all can try Lake Pepin in 3 years for them things. There might be a resident population there by then.
Let’s get back to the Featherback. I have one pole devoted to the Featherback all day long and a pale full of 3-4 inch Goldfish for bait. What do you know? I have one taking my Goldfish late in the afternoon. I set the hook and it is a nice one. I have been wanting to catch one of these things for several years now. I almost get it to the net when the line breaks. It must have been 8 or 9 lbs. A huge feeling of disappointment comes over me as I missed my opportunity. You all know the feeling. I lost a huge Clown Featherback.
I tried to keep my composure and keep fishing but all I could see when I closed my eyes was that Big Clown Featherback swim away from me. I am now fighting feelings of disappointment and unbelief, but I press on anyway.
God must have been smiling down on me because my bobber went down again. I set the hook and this time completed another “double lifelister day 
.” I have 4 doubles in a day and they are all very memorable. This Lifelist hunt just consumes me. Enjoy the pics!
When they quarrelled they sure did move some water around, even with a tight fitting lid 
