Hey, Stlhdr1, I was a bragging young 25 year old like yourself once. That was a long time ago, something like, oh, last month. I know what you mean about putting the hurt to a lot of steelies as I used to fish, fish, and fish. I have a hell of a lot of steelhead under my belt. Since I went back to college it has put a serious dent in my fishing time. My girlfriend never complains about fishing and rarely keeps me from going. It's the hours and hours of homework that tie me down.

I am a fierce competitor when on the water, but it depends on who is with me. If it's some of my heavy hitter steelhead fishin' buddies, then I am going to outfish them, period. If it's somebody brand new to steelheading or somebody who has not caught many, then I'll work my tail off to get them a fish. Most of the time when I'm pulling plugs I let the guys in the front grab whichever rod gets a takedown. No worries as I will be driftfishin' the next hole and I'll get a chance to hook one for myself. I have a lot of days on the water where I let my guests catch all the fish and hand my rod off when I hook one. Doesn't bother me as long as the recipient is happy and appreciative.

I think it's ok to brag and compete as long as you're in the company of those who can withstand it as they will dish it out too. I am like you, stlhdr1 when it comes to other boats on the river. I don't care who gets in front of me as I have a killer success rate when it comes to batting cleanup. Much like you, there are people out there that have a secret weapon or two.

I would like to challenge you, BK, and any other guys in the mid twenties age group. Let's see what ya'll are made of before we take on the veterans and get creamed. To keep it fair it would have to be the best two out of three: One day on your home river, one day on mine, and one day on a new river that no of us have ever fished. Fair enough? If you win, then "you da man" and vice versa.

I absolutely love fishing with people that can outfish me as I will never know it all and still have so much to learn.

Justin
CEO, Sauk River Steelhead Ranch



[This message has been edited by SAUKit2em (edited 12-23-2000).]