The mental part of fishing

[John Bales]

Brett called last night for some advice. Forcast for his destination was 15 mph winds gusting to 25. What do I do? Some of the smaller waters the ramps are frozen so those are out. I said go........... One of the greatest inventions lately has been the spot lock. It allows a person to position the boat and in high winds, you can put the boat so you can cast with the wind and eliminate the bow in the line, allowing you to detect a bite. It is easy to use excuses to stay home especially when the conditions are uncomfortable for the fisherman. However, there is a state of mind that if you really want something, it is possible to mentally block out these things and just get it done. I just called to see if he is cussing me for telling him to go get it done. He said it is not good. Another fisherman tried to anchor not far from his spot and blew away three times and finally went back to the ramp. Bret then told me which spot he was on and said he had 11 smallmouth from that one spot and had no intentions of moving. Why would he. I enjoy fishing with guys like Brett with that attitude. Good Job. John

[Jerry Borst]

Couldn't agree more John! It takes a "Special" kind of person with large drive to do what's required.

Dec 4th I took a guy out that I just met a couple of week ago and seemed to have what it takes, how many actually fish in 30 degree weather? Lol! It was your average December day in Madison, we had to work really hard for every fish that struck our lures, 3. Fortunately the only one that did stick ended up on my new friends line, good times!

[Duplex]

John,

When you speak of guys like Brett who possess mental toughness, you have to also include a Spoonplugger like Bill Beck. He doesn't blow his own horn, but he's been sticking 'em pretty good lately. Trolling AND casting have produced nice catches of muskie and northern pike under severe conditions.

Jim

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[John Bales]

Hats off to Jim and Bill for their efforts. Looks like pretty good rewards in both cases. I believe Mr. Duplex always says you can't catch em if your not out there. A few of us are either more self motivated than the others or some say just a little more crazy. Good job guys. Would you consider this guy self motivated or just plain crazy? John

[Bink]

The Illinois guys are the toughest. When you have to drive 50+ miles just to get on the water then spend 8+ Hrs fishing that really separates the men from the boys

[beckman44]

John the hat makes you look just plain cool. I don't see lazy, the eyes show a piercing determination. Or it may be possible you are real relaxed after a few drinks. Lol. Bill.

[John Bales]

Bill, Debs uncle left the hat after a family gathering. I put it on and told Deb to take a pic and gave one of my attitude looks. It was all in fun.I was very determined today from the start but 7 baby smallmouth on one lake and a fat zero on my own lake in the other 3 hours tells me it might have been a tough day today. Get this. Water temp on the first lake was 35 and my lake was 34. We broke 3/4 of an inch of ice in my channel to get out there. Is that determination or stupid. I'd say both but it will be over soon and I want a little more. I know you know the feeling, just one more day. Big front tonight but after that, the temps are going to hold off for at least another week or so. That was a nice musky you got lately. Take Care Bill. John