I came across a picture of Ike's boat setup and some reminders he has duct taped on his console:
The sign reads: FISH THE MOMENT-Don't rule anything out-Fish from the bank out to deep water-Fish fast and hit everything-No pre-conceived notions-Listen to the fish (no accidental bites)-NEVER GIVE UP!
I have some productive fishing times back in 2006-2008. The last few years have not been productive for me. I need to make some changes. Here's my list of reminders so far: 1) Concentrate on the steps it takes to win not win and don't worry about not catching. 2) Fish your strengths, not other peoples. 3) Do let technology master you (GPS).
Anybody have any other good ones?
Vic
Bassmaster Link: http://www.bassmaster.com/slideshow/inside-elite-boats-mike-iaconelli
Don't lose sight of what your doing.. FISHING.. Smile and say to yourself "Whats better than that?"
Considering I just retired after 36 years with GM. Maybe I will tape my old ID badge to the dash so when I think things are going bad I can look at it and say. " You could be working so enjoy fishing. "
Hey Victor...Did you go back and dissect those productive years and compare them to what you are doing now? Different line, gear ratio,scent,partner. Sometimes we get caught up in the newest baits, lord knows I do. My wife says I have more $ value in baits than she does in clothes, but I find that hard to believe ;D.
1. Have confidence or I have lost half the battle
2.Be versatile.(I don't know how many time Iv'e caught them on a specific spot and bait, then go back in another tourny and have to catch them with another bait and technique).
3.Be different...I tend to stay away from community holes. Fish inside turns when others are fishing points. Target less pressured fish.Use a little lighter line. Doctor a bait. You get it.
4.No Pressure...Have Fun, It's not a job, it's a hobby
I have followed these guide lines for 30 somethingish years and have stayed pretty consistent.
Have a great year. Tight lines
Dave
Mine would say simply this:
You could be at work. Now set the hook!
Fun topic. I actually have a duct tape sticker on my console that says "Don't Panic." It's a Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy reference I've always liked, but it fits fishing pretty well too.
No duct tape stickers for me, but there is a western Michigan angler that has one that cracks me up. It's over his speedometer, and it says: TOO FAST. I don't know why but it makes me laugh every time I see it. I believe he's a member here too.
Coop, I think you are saying have fun? That one thing I forget to do sometimes.
Dartag, congrats on Retirement... More fishing?
Pinelk... Those are some good tips. My main bad habit is fishing the way the lake (LSC) used to be. I had success in some areas and can seem to understand that times have changed.
Mike S. I love that book!