Jerry and others,

Thanks. I continue to contribute here because I'm led to believe that I can reach and inform anglers who might never otherwise get answers to questions or even think about fish biology and management issues. I've been around the block enough times to know I'm not reaching those who've already made up their minds. Although I think there's a bit of teacher in me. Few things are as satisfying as reaching through a clouded mind and having someone say, "Aha!! I understand it now, and it is very different than I always thought it was." I don't mean to sound like I'm always right and others are always wrong. I'm a long time student of biology, ecology, fish management, law, Native Americans, and fly fishing. I've been in the business in various ways nearly 30 years I guess.

I'm a good fly caster and bait caster - childhood bass fishing, but a lousy spin caster, although I've heard it only takes 15 minutes to learn! Yikes! Guess I'm still waiting to discover the miracle 15 minutes, as I almost single-handedly keep Mepps in business during coho season. Thanks to CFM, I've learned to use less expensive jigs, too. I've been able to provide a few good fishing and technique tips, but among this BB membership, I'm more the student than teacher in that regard.

I enjoy the give and take of spirited debate, but I don't have any use for threads that degenerate into personal attacks and irrational arguments. That's what pushed my button on this one, I guess. I don't think I'm thin-skinned. If I was, I doubt I would have been posting here since nearly day 1.

You're fortunate to be up in Smalma's territory. We're very long time acquantances, and I have a lot of respect for his professionalism. I really appreciated it when he joined the BB.

Sincerely,

Salmo g.