PRESS RELEASE 10/27/2024

DANIEL’S PARK – WILLOUGHBY, OHIO

Bronson Clay 13 of Willoughby Hills, aka Bronzilla.  Fishing Daniels Park Willoughby, Ohio 2024

The weather was chilly, so Bronson suited up in his fishing waders and warm clothing. The walk to the river was treacherous, with fallen tree limbs and debris scattered from a previous storm. Once he reached the river, he was ready to cast his line. Several deep holes were filled with giant steelhead fish.

Bronson waited patiently for a bite. Eventually, he decided to change his strategy. To avoid disrupting the fish’s ecosystem, he kicked up small rocks and dirt at the bottom of the river to create a murky effect, hoping to bring up natural bugs that the fish could not resist. The fish were in disarray, flopping and jumping around. Quickly, he cast his line, and to his excitement, a fish took the bait. This steelhead was massive.

It was difficult to calm the fish that was now hooked. Bronson grabbed the net to help him catch the flopping fish, but it broke free from the net. Realizing this technique wasn’t working, he decided to exhaust the fish naturally, using light tackle with only a 6-pound test line. After a 30-minute struggle, the fish finally stopped fighting.

At last, Bronson successfully caught the determined steelhead. The fish measured 39 inches in length and weighed approximately 23 pounds. Its skin was stunning, displaying vibrant rainbow colors and distinct black spots. Bronson felt immense pride in capturing such a magnificent creature. However, he found himself torn between keeping the fish to have it certified by the state of Ohio and the desire to release it. In his heart, he knew he couldn’t keep the majestic fish. Sensing its distress, he employed a specific technique to release it back into the water. As a sign of gratitude for the wonderful experience, Bronson always kisses the fish before letting it go.

Bronson revived the fish by carefully pulling it forward and lifting it backward through the river, allowing the water to circulate through its gills. Miraculously, the fish came back to life and swam off into the flowing water with the others. Bronson felt ecstatic that the fish had returned to its habitat and proud of overcoming such a difficult challenge. This life-changing experience was one he would never forget. He couldn’t wait for the next fishing adventures that awaited him in the future.

Kiss and Release Lake Castaic California 2022