Yesterday’s episode of On the Dock with Rick Smith delivered one of those conversations that reminds listeners why fishing is about far more than rods, reels, and the day’s conditions. Rick welcomed Bob Maindelle of Holding the Line Guide Service, who shared a remarkable story from Lake Belton — a story that blended excitement, conservation, and community service in a way only Bob can.
Bob recounted the moment a local angler hooked into what turned out to be a record‑breaking blue catfish, a fish so large that its size could only be confirmed through the catch‑and‑release method now used to document trophy fish. Instead of removing the fish from the lake, anglers measure length and girth on the water, photograph the catch, and release it immediately. Bob explained how this approach protects the health of the fishery while still allowing anglers to earn recognition for extraordinary catches. It’s a system that keeps the sport thriving — and keeps giants like this one swimming for the next generation.
But the conversation didn’t stop with big fish. Bob also shared one of the most meaningful parts of his work: providing free fishing trips for children separated from a parent due to military duty. Through his program S.K.I.F.F. — Soldiers’ Kids Involved in Fishing Fun — Bob offers young people a day on the water at no cost, giving them a chance to relax, learn, and simply be kids during a challenging time.
S.K.I.F.F. trips are open to children whose parents are away for field time, NTC or JRTC rotations, military schooling, TDY assignments, deployments, or unaccompanied tours. Children of disabled veterans who cannot take their kids fishing — as well as children from Gold Star families — also qualify.
These trips are made possible through the generosity of Austin Fly Fishers, The McBride Foundation, and Austin Subaru, whose donations ensure that every eligible child can participate without cost or complication. No referral is needed — just a call, text, or email from a parent to get started.
For families interested in learning more or scheduling a trip, Bob can be reached at (254) 368‑7411.
Yesterday’s episode was a reminder of what makes Central Texas’ outdoor community special: big fish, big stories, and even bigger hearts.
