Networking for
Success
Have you ever wondered why some anglers are always more successful than others? There are several factors involved in the success of course, such as luck, experience, determination, local knowledge, weather conditions, moon phase, etc. But have you considered these people also are networking for success? They are connecting with their buddies and other anglers to find out the latest information on what, where and how fish are biting.
I’ve networked all my life as a salesperson, and it is the best vehicle for getting to the right place and successfully getting a sale. Networking for fishing success will also work.
One of the best ways to get started is to find other successful anglers and ask them to share their secrets to catching more fish. You know these guys; they are the people that always have a great story to tell about all the fish they have been catching. Some anglers are a little reluctant, to say the least, to tell you exactly where they caught that big fish but will be willing to tell you general areas to find fish and to tell you what they have been using for bait unless it’s a secret formula or a handmade lure of a sort. Asking what species are biting is also important. Make a mental note of different angler’s stories and techniques and of the areas they are fishing in. Compile this information for your next trip to narrow down the area that you will have more confidence in. One of the best ways to get other anglers to share successes is to also share your successes with them. It seems to break the ice sometimes and lets them know it is a two- way street and that you are willing to give away a few secrets to get a few secrets.
Another great way to get some great tips is at local bait shops. The owners of the bait shops are always talking to the local anglers and guides that patronize their shops for their tackle, bait and gear. They get first-hand information of how the fishing is going and the latest lures and techniques for catching all the fish. They will also inform you of the areas that are the most productive right now and the local laws that govern fish sizes, limits and in some cases the seasons.
Once you have gotten some information and you get on the water, look to the boats that are already fishing and ask them how they are doing. You’ll find that most anglers are more than happy to chat about their success that day. Almost every time I go on the water, I end up meeting a new friend with whom I can share my fishing experiences, and I get to hear some fantastic stories from them.
One of my most successful ways of finding fish sometimes is watching other boats and where they are fishing. Just being observant but not trying to fish in the same spot has taught me where some of the most productive holes are. If I have seen a boat in the same places day after day, you can rest assured that they have been successful catching fish in that area. If I find that area not being fished the next time I go, I will stop and try my luck there.
Fishing is not 100% luck as some people may lead you to think, but rather it is a lot of calculation and experience to be in the right place at the right time with the right bait fished in the right manner. Good luck and don’t forget to network for success. See you on the water!