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A local journalist spoke to Mark that day.
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Springfield Gazette reporter Sarah Thompson documented Mark Jennings' latest hand-fishing expedition along the North Fork River. "This ain't your grandpa's fishing trip," Jennings grinned, rolling up his camouflage sleeves and adjusting his waterproof waders. The 38-year-old's movements were deliberate - part dance, part predator - as he submerged his entire arm into the murky depths. "Feel for that vibration," he coached, demonstrating the signature hand-flutter technique. "When a flathead's interested, your whole arm knows it." Moments later, Jennings' muscles tensed. "Got one!" he bellowed, his voice echoing off limestone bluffs. Onlookers watched in awe as he wrestled a 60-pound catfish to the surface, its whiskered mouth clamped firmly around his forearm. Post-catch, Jennings emphasized safety protocols: "Always dive with a partner, know your riverbed, and respect nature's power." The fish was quickly measured, photographed, and released - standard practice among Ozark noodlers.
