Working Class Zero: Seventeen

Trophy Bass fishing is a mindset. It's about dedicating days, weeks, months if not years in hopes that it will all lead up to one minute that can change your life forever. Re-live Mike Gilbert's minute as he talks us through the catch of his personal best trophy largemouth bass weighing 17.4lbs.
*Note: This video was filmed and released years prior to an individual included in this video being filmed snagging fish. While we condemn the actions of this individual, we feel it is important to leave the film in it's original form as an educational experience for anglers years to come. Learning from the poor choices of their predecessors.
Follow Working Class Zero here:
Instagram: / working.class.zero
Facebook: / workingclasszero.net
Website: www.workingclas...
Webstore: workingclasszer...

[@JoeyDiCienzo]

this video was one that you come across and it gives you immediate goosebumps. this couldnt have been produced any better, nor could the fish have looked any prettier. This is an undescribable video... it simply cannot be put into words.

[@BmpFishing]

Awesome stuff! Crazy to see her come off in the net like that. One wrong move and this video would never happen. Nice work!

[@WorkingClassZeroFishing]

It seems like thats how it goes with the really giant fish. So much pressure something has to give.

[@halfmoon5022]

Yes! All size bass come off easily. Even with "pricey" hooks. Catfish, not so easy to unhook.

[@jasonflesher1020]

Man, What a Memory for Mike Gilbert's Bank, and an inspiration for many more of us who are still looking for that fish of a lifetime. Fantastic Video, Mr. Gilbert! I've probably watched it 100 times, and I'll probably watch it 500 more times. Keep chucking dude!

[@WorkingClassZeroFishing]

Thank you!

[@simonerich5999]

Not only do I love the inspiration of your big swimbait fishing and the amazing fish that you're pulling out, but your video and editing are incredible. Thanks for the phenomenal quality in a sea of mediocrity!

[@brownbearrez6952]

Simon Erich well said

[@offshore33cc94]

Great catch!! You still call that POS Mike Long your friend?

[@westcoastfishing2768]

I wish more SD fisherman were as respectful to their catch as you are. We all know our lakes hold monstrous bass and they have for years.... Murray, Jennings, Dixon, Miramar, Otay, the list goes on and on it's just unfortunate they all get hit so hard so often, not to mention the night poachers at that. Gosh man if everyone was as knowledgeable as you are our lakes would still hold the numbers of large fish, it wasn't just one big fish being shared among fisherman back in the day. Shit I remember 10 years ago you could walk onto the fishing dock at Murray and see double digits swimming through the bluegill schools during the summer. It just showed the sheer amount of how many double digits used to be in our lakes. The only one that I know still has major potential is, well I'm not gonna say it lol. But it's a shame what is happening to our lakes.

[@billyb9067]

WestCoastFishing yup at Miramar in the early 90’s. There were teeners chasing and nipping at our trout we were reeling in. Only if we knew and had the trout swim bait then..

[@deeznutz7506]

Watching the butch brown podcast n he says trout plants killd the lake not people no trout means no trout eaters to grow those dds

[@rschreck876]

Man I hope you didn’t let Mike Long take a photo with your fish....

[@raidersc9066]

Lol

[@user-wo7rp6bc6t]

Or did the mike long

[@dlok9563]

Lmao

[@caiden2059]

Nah he released the fish for mike to snag it later

[@zeldres3472]

And to think that fish has been cruising in that body of water for 8+ years waiting on that swim bait. Insane. Awesome video and awesome fish

[@owensanchez9353]

Honestly I’m not gonna lie I teared up seeing such a big fish being caught by such a dedicated angler. It’s stuff like this the fact that beasts like that exist that keep you on that grind for the next bass

[@michaelgruber616]

What dreams are made of Mike! I pray every year the bass gods would bless me, not yet.....thousand miles of casting, the pursuit continues. 20 lbs is next for you buddy! Proud to be a Working Class Zero!

[@Mark-sg3yk]

And yours will come too keep the faith !!! Never give up.

[@Squirellll]

This is easily my favorite bass fishing video, gives me so much confidence to just go out and try and try until something connects

[@anthonyviator2942]

Squirellll so true man

[@seanplace6983]

Four years later and I still come back and watch it from time to time. Great catch Mike congratulations!

[@stevencaldwell838]

What a blessing to catch a bass of that magnitude! What a curse to be associated with Long! I’m sure you’ve moved on. Keep up the good work! You are a truly amazing angler!

[@Aidenanddaddyvideos]

True inspiration dude. You do it for the right reasons you do because you love that feeling of hooking into a giant you do it because you love being out there and finding out where the big ones live and what they do. You don’t do it to be famous or make money. It’s how everyone starts fishing because of the passion for it. Keep it up man.

[@01XLC]

Man sucks hearing Mike longs name in this video everytime I watch it now but this is still one of the best big fish stories out there no doubt 🤟

[@BrockNessMonster1991]

Never heard of him before, what did he do?

[@memeengineer6481]

@@BrockNessMonster1991 he snagged bass

[@nickkerr5714]

@@memeengineer6481 that's putting it lightly

[@danielbryant9077]

As soon as I heard that name I was hoping this was filmed before any of that happened and thankfully it was

[@thrillerdylan]

Not the best person to say you're friends with... Eeek

[@Deetown691]

I am thankful for you tube and people like you that make great videos not only showcasing your success but also educating and sharing your knowledge on Big bass and the equipment necessary to catch bass of that caliber. I've read articles about you for a few years before I ever saw your videos and I appreciate your attention to details because you make some quality videos and its not easy to get quality footage like you do. Keep on inspiring and educating us and hopefully you'll be watching our videos landing some behemoths soon. God bless.

[@donnyd7516]

keep it up Mike. Your work is truly inspirational and amazing. Thanks. Getting out next weekend with my hudds and Bbz1 to skinner. This March will be 2 years throwing the big stuff and haven't stuck one yet but have learned a lot along the way. I'm never giving up. The passion is in my veins

[@Mass_bigbaits]

This video gives me chills every time I watch it. I hope to one day be as knowledgeable. My brain just doesn’t work the same I guess.

[@alexmckeever3747]

I've watched this video like t0 times. Same feelings. Tyrant style

[@chrisbailey905]

I watch this video every week since it was uploaded as a way to stay determined to throwing big baits. Thank you so much for this and congrats

[@MrFisheye333]

Who would thumbs down this video ?? Great Vid man ,congrats from Texas !

[@jimchumley6568]

Michael Scammell Thumbs up their asses!

[@WereAllThatBored]

It wasn’t me, but I can imagine its someone who didn’t like him picking a 17 pounder up by its jaw. Fish that big need support when lifting them out of the water.

[@strikevyyper]

i stand and salute you as not only a fellow fisherman, but out of sheer respect for taking some pictures and letting her go. That sir is a true fisherman and gentleman...

[@InformativeFisherman]

Amazing video and story, congratulations again Mike!

[@uriellevi9000]

You all prolly dont care at all but does anyone know of a way to log back into an Instagram account..? I somehow lost my password. I would love any tips you can give me

[@emmittjesse7443]

@Uriel Levi instablaster =)

[@uriellevi9000]

@Emmitt Jesse Thanks for your reply. I found the site on google and im trying it out atm. Takes quite some time so I will reply here later with my results.

[@uriellevi9000]

@Emmitt Jesse it did the trick and I actually got access to my account again. I'm so happy:D Thank you so much, you really help me out!

[@emmittjesse7443]

@Uriel Levi you are welcome xD

[@getoffmylawn8986]

Congratulations, Mike. I'm envious! May we both catch an even bigger one someday.

[@ronbutlin8153]

your hand tremor and loss of breath are why i love the video, your passion, and bass fishing... incredible.. i almost lost it seeing that bait spit out not 1 second sooner.

[@ATFISHING]

Mike you have the best vids out there hands down......c2c with commentary, it's like watching a documentary on Natgeo......SICK! You really need to do a full length video, I for one would buy it. Great work Dude!!!!

[@brownbearrez6952]

One of the best videos Iv ever watched ,so cool when you grind and grind then your finally rewarded .

[@MsArotelle]

Absolute giant. What an unreal moment. You have been blessed to catch her, everything lined up perfectly. Holy shit man.

[@5four]

Fish of a lifetime , on an artificial lure. And you have the class to return her to the water ! props to you dude !

[@timmcmaster6435]

Beautiful story. Thx for releasing. Good friends to help u document. Rock on brother

[@smores9889]

I got super emotional after watching this video. You inspire me to keep chasing the big fish. To be able to catch a big bass and then watch it swim away to fight another day is such a tremendous experience! If you ever find your way up to Wisconsin, hit me up. You will have a place to stay, a boat to use and a full belly. Keep up the get educational videos, I have learned much from watching. Thanks

[@AtypicalOutdoors]

I have watched this video atleast 50 times....I gotta keep casting!! The grind continues!!

[@WaterWarriorFishing]

this is what its all about. still find myself returning to this vid a year after you put it out. All passion, dedication, and commitment. keep it up man, #WCZ

[@scottcubillas8565]

That’s the best Bass video I’ve ever seen. Love it

[@WaterWarriorFishing]

dude you've got that passion, I know it when I see it and I don't see it often. This stuff is amazing. Subbed.

[@DwightPerkins-i7t]

The absolute way to do it. No nonsense video. Absolute monster. Then the release. 👍👍

[@giovannikoppen]

this gave me a lot of inspiration just to think keep going don't give up and u will be reworded, its one of those moments where I also got a weird feeling because this video was so moving thank u for sharing.

[@WorkingClassZeroFishing]

Stoked you like it.

[@davidhenry8137]

Love it! Watch this over n over from time to time. Great fish great video. Thank you for posting this video.

[@BASSHOG8]

This has to be top 5 best bass video story on the net! Congrats brother I'm still searching for my first teen fish. Keep slaying em!

[@whycantanythinggoodhappen7709]

Great short film. Awesome video and fish, congrats on catching that beast

[@PigPatrolTV]

So EPIC Mike. One of my all time favs!

[@520angling5]

I’m a huge fan of yours. You inspired me to buy a gopro.

[@GlideorDieSwimbaits]

one thing i love about this channel is they guy doesn’t use a 80k boat and he goes out and catches 17lbrs at the boat ramp

[@DryCreekBrew]

Yeah where he caught this is illegal to fish the area. This particular lake you aren’t allowed to fish within 100’ of a boat or courtesy dock. No doubt a nice catch, but it’s a little tarnished since he was breaking the law.. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@Handberrydea]

I love the background that you included prior to the fight. It’s nice to get a little context Ima vid. I need to do more of that on mine. Great fish. Awesome video!

[@joshuacox865]

your KZbin channel is killing it! loving all the new content

[@WorkingClassZeroFishing]

Thanks Joshua

[@urinetrouble3661]

WOW! The gut on that thing! Awesome experience...thanks for sharing it with us! Makes me want to hook up my boat right now!

[@Duschbag]

O.M.G..!!! That was VERY cool. Kudos to you for the respect you show those Fabulous Bass and the care you take prior to releasing them.

[@MaxEberle]

Gorgeous fish and expertly caught! Thanks for sharing

[@morelbenjamin1404]

Your quality video is great with great song for a great moment to your fisherman life ! Thanks to have show this !!

[@zackbryant6822]

This is an amazing video, the edits,music, everything great Job!!

[@jeffshaw1339]

Such a bad ass video!! Much respect Mike!!

[@poststalone1496]

I just found your channel. Really good quality. Love the explosions in the sky in the opening.

[@WorkingClassZeroFishing]

Thanks for tuning in!

[@caliyak_fishing]

Dude, I'm speechless. Congrats and that is why I love Cali.

[@sentinelfishing2050]

Stomach starts churning, knees are weak, palms are sweaty, mom's spaghetti

[@sentinelfishing2050]

Pua Yang thanks man

[@45_MAGA_45]

This video right here, reminds me of why I fish. A day on the water is never wasted, your always learning and honing your skill. One day hopefully we will all, make that cast. Great video, great fish!!

[@stevefisher2553]

trump lost! TRAITOR

[@Lsmoe]

Love it Man !I Its hard to explain to people who don't fish that feeling. I was trippin over my 6lb'er. I can not imagine a 17lb beast ! Damn Son !! Its videos like this that keep me casting ! One day baby one day ! Best 5min video today. God bless and Thanks for the inspiration.

[@bloom8446]

Hay this is your cousin from Maine Natalie! I just want to say that’s the biggest bass I’ve ever seen!

[@WorkingClassZeroFishing]

Hello Natalie!

[@bloom8446]

@@WorkingClassZeroFishing hi! :)

[@brandonchin2693]

I've been Bass fishing my whole life, but just starting the swimbait game. I can't wait for my moment!

[@leef277]

I like happy endings to a story… I hope to have that feeling one day!

[@charlesrobertson2412]

We've all been inches of making the same if not bigger hook set. That's what keeps me going back on a daily basis. Luck, skill, knowledge????? Who knows.?. I'm going with luck because no one I know puts forth the work I have and will continue to do. Nice catch, nice video.

[@toddbloxham6041]

Congrats! You're videos are on a different level. Keep it up

[@judesantora2991]

todd bloxham

[@WranglerBros]

Thanks for sharing Mike. That vid was incredible!! Such an incredible achievement!!!

[@hayeshemphill1052]

incredible story so inspired

[@KeifersReelPlanetBass]

Outstanding! Made the hair on the back of my neck stand up

[@Kyng_Koopah]

Damn bro, thanks for sharing this. My PB black bass is only 9.13lbs I have been throwing huddleston’s BBZ Trout, shad and all kinds of big swimbaits with no luck up here in Clear Lake Ca. After watching you I have regained my confidence. Thanks for the great info and awesome footage.

[@OriginalityBoi]

Sometimes you get a bored feeling from your favorite sport. Like, "Eh go out catch bass picture release and come back home every weekend. Nothing new." This is where I ended up. I wasn't bored of it. I was just low on energy. And I just got fueled up from watching this.

[@nexuslures6947]

Incredible video! That net didn't arrive a moment too soon.

[@rawblow4512]

Congratulations buddy!! One day when your on your death bed you will remember this day and you will tell yourself that you lived life to the fullest and you did something that most will ever get to experience! Me on the other hand will prob never be able to get back out their and enjoy the beauty of nature. For me, fishing was a stress reliever, not a care in the world entered my mind when i was in my boat, and it really didn’t matter if my dad and i caught fish, just getting to go be together doing something we loved was good enough for us!

[@matthartley8127]

Way to go Mike!!! You earned it! Congratulations! 👊🏻👊🏻

[@jesselara817]

Awesome Video, Fish of a lifetime. Congrats on the trophy!

[@mamouta1]

Congratulations from Portugal, nice video keep going

[@ETconehome]

I immediately heard explosions and knew it was going to be a good video

[@Psychomotors]

Absolutely AMAZING! Congrats!

[@mikeybalzz]

bad as hell! luv it!

[@joemomma7661]

mikeybalzz fishing i think you can match that size soon. The way you hammer down and change techniques. You could get one like that easy.

[@PigPatrolTV]

You know it’s a ranger when ballz shows up 👍🏻

[@hairybass480]

By your self and you got video of it all. This is an awesome video! Good for you man.

[@kenmccarthyfishing]

I have soooooo much respect for you Mike,I just saved another video and every video you post to my favorites 🏆🏆😀🍻🍺

[@ldfoutdoors4627]

I watch this when I need some confidence. Love this video

[@castingforgold5909]

Sick man, really admire your work! better than some of these other channels, keep it up G.

[@WorkingClassZeroFishing]

Thanks man!

[@jebar01]

Amazing, truly amazing. I respect you for releasing that amazing bass. I would have, yes, and probably could not talk for quite a while.

[@teddytiles]

That was the best Video and Catch I have ever seen! Great Job and Dedication!

[@George-gk7nc]

I'm glad he caught it. Great catch and release 👌

[@ronbutlin8153]

she even un-hooked herself when she was in the net.. my god, what a video.. love the attitude and style buddy. slips where they let you fish are always top producers for me.. wtg bro

[@chasecollazo6772]

Amazing catch! True definition of hard and dedication! Congrats!

[@RYDER178]

Love this video bro! that is truly a fish of a lifetime! congrats! and to get it on tape is even more bitter sweet!

[@larryllanes1166]

That's a catch of a lifetime!! Congratulations!!!✔💯🎣🎣🎣💪

[@mikeerdelen1900]

Outstanding video. Some.of tbe best videography and production on you tube

[@anthonylopez9868]

great work nice bass man congrats from Rhode island someone on a forum out here posted this and brought me here

[@WorkingClassZeroFishing]

Thanks Anthony!

[@AJFar-tm7dn]

Dude, another Congratulations from Rhode Island. Mike, when you first lifted her in the boat, I thought you were going to pass out. You looked a little woozy, Man! I would have thrown-up, seriously. Freak of Nature!

[@anthonylopez6268]

Anthony Lopez hey bro

[@JBird401]

Shoutout to all the other Rhode Island anglers. We work hard for our weight in the smallest state!

[@TopwaterTony]

Fantastic video and story!

[@joshua6381]

What a beauty catch and release great job props from southern California.

[@Ternthefly]

I think I've watched this video every night for the las month almost. Absolutely amazing. I wish I could get a DD

[@sdocb9721]

All around fantastic film making, bravo! Great fish too.

[@RodneyMarquezFishingChannel]

Pure inspiration man .

[@crowejr77]

Siiiiiiick bro. Love it WCZ, really enjoy your content and style. I've watched this vid multiple times and it gets me every time. 513

[@chadsweitzer325]

Huge props to the camerawork by "a camera on a stick" haha!

[@clintplatt5507]

Great video, congrats on an absolute beast! Keep up the work bro

[@michaelmorrison9961]

Awesome- I’m starting to get bigger bass, last month a 10-1 and this month a 6-5. Both in a very small lake behind my house.. I’ve had follows from some giants- I’m going to keep grinding and reach for a 15. Great work man, inspired.

[@The_Bass_Stunters]

Absolutely amazing my man! Love your swim baits btw.

[@dominicbybee1]

amazing video and an incredible fish congrats man

[@liveeverycasttv2877]

Dude I absolutely love this! Great catching and AMAZING VIDEO!!

[@evanwoyke]

amazing story!

[@wp8767]

That's crazy that you caught that right next to the friggin boat ramp! Sick man.

[@albertgallardo4996]

I fish every single day just for that moment, I fush hours and hours. I put in the work day after day and I know soon its gonna pay off. This video encouraged me even more now ✊✊🤙🤙🐟🐟

[@Mark-sg3yk]

Don't feel that you won't catch another like that,you never know what tomorrow might bring stay on top of things champ 😁 you got it.