On the last day of halibut season, I set out through the breaking waves of Makah Bay with a couple fishing buddies. On my first drop, I thought I felt a snag. I yanked the line, and the line vibrated back. I knew I had a fish.
I quickly reeled the fish halfway up from 120 feet of water. Then it dove back to the bottom. I worked it in again until I could see the fish. When I saw the size, I called my buddy Rich Fargo on the VHF.
After two more long runs, I had the fish beside the boat. I asked Rich, “Where do I harpoon it?” He replied, “Anywhere!” I hit the fish just behind the gills. “I got it!” I shouted. That’s when the halibut went berserk and ran for the bottom. The fish pulled the harpoon causing the kayak to flip and drag me under the surface. I remember seeing my kayak…
