I hope I'm not out of line here, but I must ask the question: Why don't more pros respond to questions asked here? Well, I'm not totally stupid, it's probably because they tend to get beat up by people who have differing opinions. For the record, I'm not a pro. I, as well as many others, would love to see more guys that fish the major circuits respond to questions here. I know it's "a thankless job", but this could be a great forum for exchange of information and ideas from proven sources...Professionals. How about it? If we all promise to play nice? Looking foward (hopefully) to seeing more responses here in the future.
Thanks,
Tim

It's probably a combination of what you say, and the attitude, "what are they ever going to do for me", that stops many pros from posting. There have been some that were pretty regular, but eventually, the bad apples, run them off. So far as your play nice promise is concerned, you just can't think that way...it ain't happening. Some guys just get too big a kick out of showing us how big a hind-end they can be. Too bad to, it's a golden opportunity lost.

You also have to remember that they have jobs to protect. Think of it this way. Besides time and dedication, what makes a "pro" fisherman? Information and knowledge. If they shared all they knew then what would seperate them from all of us?

I don't think that the Pro's are worried about there jobs as fishermen! Besides, what's going to happen, 10,000 new members on the PWT! Don't think so!!! I have spoken with many pro's from different tourney trails and they have always given me good advice! I bet most of the pro's are gearing up and practicing for the championship next month and are to busy to post right now!


Wallagator Chaser

Howdy,

The pro's cannot get beat up pretty bad here. This forum is a totally moderated forum. Nothing gets posted without Scott or I reading it first.

So if you are one of the people who took some sensless beatings in the past, this is the forum for you. And please remember, these beatings were words on a computer screen from annonymous posters, with an axe to grind.

But it is a different forum now and all are welcome to use this board.

Have fun........R

Hey Toolman,

I am relatively new to the sight. Been doin' it for about a year now. I, too, am surpised more pro's don't respond. Especially when it involves equipment they use and have business relationships with.
I truly think if you, the consumer, let the marketing departments at the boat companies etc., know how well the pro's advice it accepted, it might become somewhat mandatory for the pro's and therefore extra finacial support would follow. Afterall, for some, it is their sole livelihood and the companies need to recognize that. Especially IF they heard enough about the one's doin' their job.
As far as fishing techniques, one has to draw the line somewhat. Afterall, who knows who is listening? I for one, will discuss at length, anything that I have already publicly discussed through other means. BUT, IF I develop an edge that I know very few know, I would be prety dumb to let the competition know it before I whoop them.

So....I for one, appreciate the opportunity to help all of you with what little I have learned over the years. Please feel free to ask....especially on the other 'general' sections of the WC board, so all can view things. Like has been said, taking hits that have no merit, or hits that just simply can't be responded to without conveying a bad image, even though deserved, CAN and WILL drive the pro's away very quickly!

Keep a tight line....

Thanks to all for the responses. I guess my original post wasn't as much a question as it was a plea. Let these guys answer legitimate questions without ripping them every time. I realize some answer with more of "an agenda" than others, but most give great feedback. I don't have a problem with a pro promoting his or her product and sponsers, as long as that doesn't involve trashing the competition. Product endorsement and promotion can, and should be, done in a professional manner. Most people have the ability to filter their responses without the help of a "post flamer". As far as fishing info goes, knowledge and application of knowledge are two different things. If I went to a golf clinic given by Tiger Woods that doesn't mean that I'll be on the PGA ;)

Thanks again, and I hope to see more activity in this forum in the future.
Tim

Yes, you hit the nail on the head. I for one, hate to see this, as when we come here to the board, to answer someone's question, we end up in a P---ing match. I think more Pro's would open up and be here, if they did not get a black eye each time. Major sponsor's, also have stop comming here, for the same reason. They use to use this site, as a info site, and to see if the Pro's were staying in touch with the fishermen. When they have asked the Pro's why they weren't there, that is what the Pro's have told them, and they have seen it foor themself.

I look forward to chatting with the people on Wc, and to stay in touch, through Q&A's to my email.

Thanks,

Gary Gray

If I can be of help to anyone, please feel free to email me or drop the question for Gary Gray here, and I will get to it.

My email: garygray@execpc.com


Thanks for the opportunity,

Gary Gray #10

I will try to stay off the lakes on occassion to read and post on Walleye Central more often. You can also email me at rfranklin@ricksfish4life.com and I will answer any questions to the best of my knowledge.
I have really enjoyed reading the posts and will start responding on questions that I might be familiar with.

Rick Franklin
NPAA 733