Though not a writer, I have received quite a few free items in the past, presumably under the umbrella of "field testing".

As of yet, I've never given a recommendation for any of the stuff that I've used, outside of requests from friends regarding the quality of what I've been using, which I've given, and reports back to the manufacturer/supplier.

I think that Dave and KJ nailed it...it's not typical, but it's always a good policy to consider the source when reading recommendations.

Fish on...

Todd

P.S. DaveV, how was the Vedder/Chilliwack? It looks like I'm heading up there a week from this coming Wednesday...want to go back up? I'm drivin'...