South OC Report 8/31

[jimglover1]

Went to my spot Sunday evening around 5. 2 - 3 ft shore break and around 6-8 ft viz. Right as a nice 4ft set wave is breaking I feel a strike.
Somewhat unusual...So I swing and it's on. The fish was strong and it took line immediately. I applied as much pressure as possible with the 6# line in order to slow him down and I slowly started to gain some ground on him. After about 7 minutes of gently stroking him in, right as I'm ready to land him, my line snaps. I look down and for a split second I see the fish.
It's a NICE calico. I'd estimate it at 17 -18". A wave immediately causes the monster to vanish. UGHH! Immediate afterthought is "should I have pounced into the surf like a labrador trying to keep my catch?" It was only the second calico I've hooked in my spot in like 20 yrs. Fished for another hour or so for 2 YFC around 13"-released. Next time!