A Mississippi Crappie Fishing Homecoming, Bethel Style

ENID LAKE, Miss. – Sometimes the best days are the ones spent away from the office, surrounded by good friends, beautiful scenery, and a fishing rod in hand.

For the past two years, Bethel University President Dr. Perry Moulds and longtime Bethel Bass Fishing Coach Garry Mason had talked about taking a fishing trip together—an opportunity to relax, reconnect with nature, and hopefully reel in a few fish. When Bethel Vice President of Athletics Derek Horne joined the university in December, the conversations naturally expanded to include him as well.

The three shared more than a professional connection. Each developed a love for fishing as a child, and both Dr. Moulds and Horne have deep roots in northern Mississippi. It seemed only fitting that their long-discussed adventure would take them back to the lakes and waterways of that region.

The trip became a reality thanks to Mason's longtime friend, Les Smith of Como, Mississippi. Smith, owner of the Mississippi Crappie Compound, extended an invitation that turned into a memorable experience filled with friendship, laughter, and outstanding fishing.

The gathering began the evening before the trip at the famous Como Steakhouse; a Mississippi landmark located just off Interstate 55.

"If you've ever been to Como, you know about the Como Steakhouse," Mason said. "It's one of those places everyone talks about, and it certainly lived up to its reputation."

Joining Moulds, Horne, and Mason were Smith and his nephews, Mark and Michael. Over dinner, the conversation quickly turned to the next day's plans.

"Guys, we're heading to Enid Lake to catch some big crappie," Smith told the group. "Remember, they have to be over 12 inches long to keep."

Following dinner, the group made their way to the Mississippi Crappie Compound, where Les and his wife, Lois, have created a welcoming retreat for family, friends, and fellow anglers. The comfortable setting provided the perfect place to unwind before an early start.

That start came quickly.

By 4 a.m., the anglers were up and preparing for the drive to Enid Lake. As dawn broke across the water, Smith launched the boat and guided the group toward a picturesque Mississippi sunrise.

The fishing strategy was impressive. Eight 20-foot B'n'M poles were deployed with two artificial baits on each line, while planer boards carrying additional baits stretched out behind the boat. Smith carefully explained the colors, presentations, and techniques that had produced fish the previous day.

It didn't take long for the action to begin.

Horne landed the first keeper crappie of the morning, drawing smiles from everyone aboard. Soon after, Moulds hooked into a quality fish of his own with a little assistance from Michael Smith. Throughout the day, crappie after crappie came alongside the boat to be measured, photographed, and either released to grow larger or placed on ice for a future fish fry.

The excitement only increased as the day progressed.

At one point, the group encountered schools of hard-fighting white bass. While entertaining, the aggressive fish created quite a challenge with 16 lines spread across the water. Multiple hookups led to tangled lines, laughter, and plenty of teamwork as the anglers worked to straighten out the mess.

"As we headed back to the ramp, it was hard to contain the smiles and laughter," Mason said. "It was simply a perfect fishing day."

More important than the fish were the memories created along the way. For a few hours, university titles and responsibilities took a back seat to friendship, storytelling, and the shared joy of being outdoors.

One thing is certain—the Bethel contingent will gladly return for another Mississippi fishing adventure with Les Smith and his family.

Moulds, Horne, and Mason expressed their sincere appreciation to Les and Lois Smith for their tremendous hospitality and to Mark and Michael Smith for helping create an unforgettable experience on the water.

The trip served as a reminder that some of life's greatest moments happen far from the office.

As the group reflected on the day, one thought seemed especially fitting:

"If the scenery on your office walls changes every minute, then the Lord is truly your architect."