that fish was probably a 'come back'. when they spawn and head back downstream they get bright again, that would explain the skinny body. Also, i have seen fish on other river systems that are hatchery fish but not clipped. the deformed fins are a give away. A nate will usually have perfect fins. That was probably what we used to call 'box fish'.

Thanks for the update on the river. I was thinking of heading out this weekend, but with the storm I will probably watch some football.

[This message has been edited by Stadle (edited 01-14-2000).]