It's About Time.

[Flysmallie]

First, I want to thank Phil for putting together one of the most successful forums that I have ever seen. And the information that I have gained, especially Trout info, has been very valuable.

I grew up fishing for bass in farm ponds in Oklahoma. When I turned eight my dad bought me a float tube. I wasn't old enough to be paddling around by myself, so he tied a rope to me and pulled me behind his tube. He is either a really great guy, or he was really desperate to go fishing. I think he's just a great guy.

My junior year we moved to Springfield. Not a lot of farm ponds, so dad bought a boat. Learned the lakes fairly well, started fishing tournaments, started placing in tournaments. Thought I had found my calling. About 6 years ago a buddy talked me into a float trip, never been in a canoe, thought it was a waste of time, boy was I wrong. Before I had a hard time enjoying fishing unless I was competing, now I have found the real reason. A couple of years later I was handed a fly rod, another big break through. My main target, smallmouth bass, the greatest creature on earth.

I have been fortunate enough to fish in a lot of different places, mostly because my dad was willing to take me. The only time that I spend on the lake in a boat is with him, he still hasn't caught on to this river addiction that I have.

Thanks again for everyone's posts, I know that I have learned a lot, and I will try and help when I can.

_____________________________________________________________

If you can't laugh at yourself, you're just giving the job to

someone else.

[flydude]

Yup, this is a great forum. I've been on some others and the members on one seem to be pretty rude sometimes. I haven't seen that here and have met some really nice folks(online that is).

Flysmallie, that's a nice size largemouth you've got there.I'm waitng to see a smallie that size in your hand!

[shadman]

this is a great site. I grew up the same way buddy. my father tourny fished. was on the lake every weekend. but now i am addicted to live bait fishin for cats and like you the all mighty Brownie. I have been wadin creeks for over 15 years and love it. dont do the fly rod thing but know it is good too.I like to take off walkin upstream with my ultrlight and spendin the day on the river cathin fish from hole to hole till im wore out.Great to know that its not a dying breed of angler.look forward to sharin info.