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This post is not directed at anyone in particular. It is meant to show the impact of the new “information age” we now live in. While information about location can be a good thing – too much or too specific can be detrimental to our surfcasting past time.
My take on “Spot talk”: When I started to become interested (read: addicted) to surf fishing for striped bass everything was a mystery and the most mysterious of all was where to catch them. “Spots” were uncovered by those who sought them out through trial and error. Every once in a while someone would actually invite me to a new location but that was a rare event. Most often you would hear of a locations name under hushed voices – then you’d start to put “two and two” together and go there. Maybe recognize a vehicle or actually see someone casting the spot or dragging a fish out. There was an anticipation and excitement of uncovering something new. What I’m trying to say is “spots” were “earned” through detective work. Those that were hardcore enough would eventually figure them out - those that were not quit fishing. It was a way of “weeding” those in the surfcasting fraternity.
I’ve told many fishermen over the years about certain locations but almost always with a “one on one” conversation. By doing this I generally get some info back that I could use, sort of “quid pro quo” so to speak. And I’m not afraid to tell you I’ve been burned a few times over the years by telling a wrong person – live and learn. I’ve also been told of locations by others in confidence and would never betray that confidence. Broadcasting a “secret” spot to a large group was always considered a no-no to those in the surfcasting fraternity, and I’m not talking about high profile locations here. Many of you know that I’ve given presentations about an island I like to spend time on – I give general info about what to fish. But after the presentation guys want to know where “flat rock” is on slide 31. My answer is “I gave you a hint now go out and find it.” Finding a spot is on your own is one of the most gratifying things about surfcasting.
With the internet many surfcasters miss out on the excitement and anticipation of the quest. A slip of the typing finger and unwanted casters will be casting your rock in no time. I know that for a fact because I’ve gathered very good intell through web sites and if I can do it so can others.
Spot talk no-no’s in my book: Many times I see spots burned because the burner doesn’t fish there anymore. Don’t post (or write) about a spot that you don’t fish - because if you do it’s not YOU that has to deal with the consequences. I’ve seen this happen quite often in the last few years. A location in nearby Mass used to be a location with a very low profile that only a handful knew about. If I met two guys there it was a crowd. Now forget it – not worth the drive if you like to fish alone.
It’s not that spots are burned as much as a part of the unwritten rules of the surfcasting game have been compromised. Thing’s that would never be done are now routine – and that’s sad. It’s kind of like looking at the answers on the back page without trying to figure it out the problem.
DZ
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