It was a cool, overcast morning at Caney Lake on March 7. It was practice day for the Louisiana High School Bass Fishing tournament. My cousin and fishing partner, Garrett Bourque, and I were out on the water with our boat captain, Wade Leblanc, scouting before the tournament the next day. I never imagined the biggest catch of my life would come before the tournament even started.
We were trying different spots, getting a feel for the lake. Not long after, I felt a solid thump. I set the hook and instantly, I knew I had something special on the line. The fish fought hard, pulling deep and making my heart race. I did my best to stay calm and focused. Mr. Wade coached me through the fight.
When the fish finally surfaced, we all saw it at the same time — and couldn’t believe our eyes. It was massive. When we got her on the scale, she weighed 13.24 pounds. I was shaking with excitement. It was my biggest bass ever. After snapping a few quick photos, we carefully released her back into the lake.
That big bass was the catch of a lifetime — and on a practice day, of all times! I’ve only just started fishing, but this moment showed me how much I love it — and how exciting the sport can be. That 13.24-pound bass will always be a milestone for me. And now, I’m even more motivated to get back out there and chase the next one.
-Braden Bourque, 15
East Ascension High School
