JTD, methinks you may have missed a good opportunity to get to know Bill and his savy wit by asking him to autograph that Claw, so you could say you owned a bonafide "Herzog signature" Eagle Claw rod. I can just hear him now.

I've actually fished an E-Claw with Bill before (a few times with a bobber!); mostly just to get a rise out of him and share a few laughs. Bill has certainly brought alot of laughter and joy into my life, not to mention all the fish. In addition to his wonderful humor, he is greatly appreciated by many for graciously sharing his deep passion and knowledge of our sport, underscored with wisdom that fishing should be fun, safe, respectful and rewarding and that fisherman should really not take themselves too seriously.

Next time you see him say hi and give him my best regards.