Trailer problems about 5 years back was one of the deciding factors that led to a cape rental with mooring. Nothing more frustrating than sitting on the side of the road looking at your smoking bearing and wondering how fast and far you can push it...
Dick - you did the right thing - congrat's on hooking up! I'm jealous...Next time don't be shy and loudly order other boats around; its the only way to assure you'll get the fish to the boat in a crowd. Many times a passing boat is oblivious to your battle and is perfectly happy to slow; go around you and watch the fight.