Just to be clear, based on some questions I got, the rod did not slip out of my hand. I made the split second decision to throw it when the line came off the deck all tangled. We were on a large flat with water less than 30" so I knew I'd get the outfit back. What I was not sure of was IF the fish would still be on the line. There was no hesitation. You have to work too hard to score a permit on the fly in the skinny water so we do what it takes to get it done. At least in this case, the plan came together nicely : )