Every angler has a story about the one that got away. But just in case you think you're the only one here are a few stories from the top contenders in the 2008 Bassmaster Classic:
Charlie Hartley "I lost two big fish today (Day 3) in the last hour of competition. One was at least 5 pounds, maybe bigger than that and the other was almost that big. They really hurt. I only had two bass today. Another 10 pounds would have made all the difference in the world. I ended the tournament just over 11 pounds short."
Mike Iaconelli "I lost one yesterday (Day 2) that I really wish I had. Even though I had a limit yesterday that's one I needed. It would have made a big difference in my total weight and my place in the Classic."
Jeff Kriet "I lost a giant that bit a jig yesterday (Day 2) — she weighed about 6.5 pounds. I had boats all around me and when I hooked her she came up and jumped. While this was going on everybody started clapping and yelling, "You're the man, Jeff, you're the man." Well, she jumped again and I'm the man alright — the man without the fish."
Cliff Pace "I lost a 5-pounder today (Day 3) that would have replaced a 12-incher. She just came unbuttoned. I have no idea why. It would have been a real help today. I needed another 5 pounds, 3 ounces to win it."
Kevin VanDam "I had a big one on the first day. Even though I had 20 pounds I still needed him. He pulled off from a crankbait and he was big. I never saw him but I knew he was big by the way he was fighting; he was a long one. That's the one I really wish I had."