Other Fishing Forums

[Phil Lilley]

I notice that more and more forums require all viewers to register before they can see threads.

I like the site but I think alot of people back out and won't register, most of the time because users are intimidated by the process. Or they don't want to give out their email address.

If you look at OAF's online users, at any time we have about twice the number of guests viewing the forum compared to members.

If I wanted to beef up my member numbers I guest I could force people to join but how many would I lose? Not worth it to me.

I could open the forum so that non guests could post... but that may open a can of worms. I know John Wilson shut the door on non guests posting on his forum cause there isn't any accountability there.

Any thoughts?

Not planning on changing anything so don't think I'm considering it... just wanted to know your thoughts.

[flyfishmaster]

Phil,

I have to say create a Poll and Vote on it.

But I agree, you need to be a member to post and reply to the forum. I was a browser for a month before joining and I joined just to let my thoughts be heard. I also liked your statement about "accountability".

FFM

[Phil Lilley]

Well... no poll. But a fine idea- thanks. If the "wrong" side won, I still wouldn't change it so no matter. Just thought it'd be a good topic for discussion.

Wasn't just picking on the smallmouth forum... I've noticed alot of forums are doing the same thing. Was looking for a new skin. All those sites use a forum format and all require you to register just to see their wares... I backed out of most of them and they lost business.

[ollie]

A lot of people are just lurkers or trolls. They want to take info, but not share in return. One forum I belong to has the fishing reports closed to anyone but the members. They have to be a member to post, but to see or post in the report section they HAVE to be a member. Cuts down on some people wanting info without sharing. Let's face it, you want people to share, but at the same time you don't want to just "give away" info you have done all the research on like fishing spots and locations.

[brownieman]

I enjoy your forum just the way it is.

Other forums I have seen have some guys that get on them and rant and rave about any and everything.

From what I have seen you do a good job of avoiding that kind of behavior on here...some try to cross the line once in a while and you always warn them...if that doesn't work just can em.

I have heard a couple of guys on different sites belly ache about being denied access to your site...little do you know how right those decisions have been on your part.

bm

[JobyKSU]

As someone that is currently covering the entire range of forum membership (some I only lurk, some I post very occasionally, and some I'm fairly active), I'll chime in.

First - the forums aren't selling the information, exactly. The successful sites that I have seen have a fairly strong community feel, and that's the hook for members. It may take a while for a new person to notice it, but that is what keeps people coming back. I think the best way to keep people coming back (as in, non-contributers) is to allow them access to what they're looking for. Eventually they may join (just look at the introductions threads and see how many people state they've been visiting for awhile Even if they don't, you have given them no reason to not visit the site - which is what required membership (even in limited areas) would do.

[hfdhoosier]

I like it the way it is. If it aint broke don't fix it. The bumper stickers will lure them in.

I belong to a couple other forums but they are nothing compared to this one.

Thanks again for the wonderful forum Phil.

Dennis

[Trav]

As a browser for a couple of years before I became a member, I like the status quo.

As far as sharing information, I may give a few tips but I (like most fisherman) dont publicly disclose my "secrets". Thats kind of par when it comes to this hobby I believe.

When it comes to accountability, Like all internet based exchanges, you have to take everything with a bit of skepticism.

[John Berry]

Phil,

I like this forum as is. I like the way you keep everything civil. Do not change anything.

[Phil Lilley]

"I have heard a couple of guys on different sites belly ache about being denied access to your site...little do you know how right those decisions have been on your part."

That's interest... I've only deleted one membership- just one. Never denied anyone except spammers and we just don't validate them. May be it was because I don't allow ronche jabber like some forums. Whatever....

I have quite a few guests and even friends who have a tough time with the internet. Anything new throws them. Some can't type... some can't spell... some are intimidated and will never post anything. All that's ok and I welcome them all.

When I write and post articles I'm not looking for anything in return. The forum is the same way, although it wouldn't be the same if I were the only one posting. It takes everyone.