Re: [VFB] USA today story

[StevenOjai]

It's curious how certain people try to pigeon-hole us into an elite category somewhat relating us to wealth and snobbery. It really gets me riled when I hear someone categorize us into some elitist position that takes a superior aire towards others. They seem to point to the expense of the equipment, the distances we travel to "play" the fish, and the elegant little vest and paraphenalia we put on as part of our ritual.
I'd like to hear someone mention what a bunch of goof-balls we really are. The kind that surveys cosmetic and craft stores for material substitutes to tie flies. The kind of people that buy a sable paint brush for a lifetime's supply of microfibbetts. The kind of people who stick their head in the water to "see" what the fish are really doing. The kind of people who would rather release the fish unharmed than throw it in the skillet. The kind of people who enjoy the "chase" more than the end-result.
Hey, And I've got no problem with the baiters, they can catch all the planters they want. Go ahead and use powerbait, your treble hooks, and fish the most accessible streams...Why, because then the places I want to fish are left to me and my brethen and the satisfied baiters have no desire to exert the additional energy to be where I am.
Steve Schalla