What does it take?

[Jimbo]

What it takes to be one of the best is a question you could probably ask of many avocations, sports or hobbies probably with some very similar responses. Some people are just plain born with natural abilities that allow them to do certain things effortlessly while others struggle. These people probably have an edge on the more physical or athletic aspect of fishing, but I'm not convinced someone could be born with the knowledge that would make him part of that elite cadre of anglers. I'm also not sure how much I buy into the luck theory. No doubt there is an element of luck involved in fishing, but I don't really see the Top Gun surfcasters being lucky that often as much as I would believe they are simply empassionately dedicated individuals who persevere and continue to focus their intentions on one thing. They spend more time studying, listening and picking the brains of their mentors and predecessors, and getting out there and seeing what works and what doesn't and committing that knowledge to memory, and doing it over and over and over again until it becomes second nature. Then they continue to push and hone those skills. That being said, I think surf fishing's best also thoroughly enjoy themselves in the mix.
Why I'm not one of them, yet? Well, as much as I'd like right now, I can only tithe my soul to the surfcasting devil, not dedicate it in whole like those other legends have.