but there's just a few things I want to say...my apologies to Patrick for sticking my nose in and to John for adding more crap..
First of all, the reason Patrick posts some ideas that are a little off-the-wall, or tries to help out when someone has a question (even if his responses aren't always 'expert') , isn't because he is trying to be a 'know-it-all', it's because considers you guys his friends and he TRUSTS you enough to take a risk and throw out some of his ideas. Most of the time when he tries to answer a question or give advice,he's really trying to be helpful. If you think his advice is crap, DON'T TAKE IT!
Secondly, Patrick DOES fish. Unlike most of you he doesn't have tons of options as to where he can go. When he talks about 'instinct', if you had read the whole post, you'll see that what he's really referring to is checking out the environment. Something that I saw most of you doing in RI, as well. Usually, if the conditions are poor, you hop in the car and go somewhere else. Patrick doesn't have that option. When I was out there for a week we fished every single day,and the fish just weren't there. It's easy to get frustrated when your only spot is giving you nothing for a while.
Patrick reads books. So what? He didn't have tons of veterans like most of you to hold his hand. He taught himself, through reading and practice. I think he's done a pretty good job at it too.
I think it's shameful and sad to abuse his respect and trust of you to make him look foolish. I know it's not my place to say it and I apologize for that, but I have a real hard time seeing someone I love being made a laughing stock and a punching bag.
As far as him 'deserving it' for his past behavior, how long is long enough? Does he get a 'life sentence' for being a teenager and saying some stupid stuff?
That's all. I mean it this time.
mindi