We’ve all heard the phrase, “good guys finish last” and in most cases I would agree. The past week has brought reflection for me on that specific phrase. I didn’t know Mark Martin (Pro Angler) from a hole in the wall until last Friday. As I stated in my last post, he was the only Pro to make sure I had a partner to fish with on our media day. This morning I drove over to Winneconne to catch the launch of Day 3(actually day 2 of fishing) and got a chance to talk with Mark before he headed out. Mark is one of those “good guys” you don’t hear much about, especially in the Pro ranks of any sport. In the world of tournament fishing, Mark stands out, taking pride in being a role model and ambassador of the sport like no other. I’m trying not to judge all professional anglers or professionals of any sport, but the bad taste I had in my mouth last week did taste pretty nasty.
Mark discussing todays plan
I walked up to Mark’s boat this morning, and he instantly remembered me and reached out to shake my hand. For a fair amount of Pro angler’s that may have been it. He and I talked for a few minutes; he showed me what caught him the 12lbs the day before and discussed his plans for today. He also proceeded to tell me that without a rattle added to his jig and the addition of scent, his 6 fish may have been zero fish. In mark’s world, there is no real reason to hide tricks, tactics or ideas. He’s open with what he does and doesn’t do. How many local fishermen give up that sort of information without the blink of an eye? Let alone a Professional looking to cash in on a 1st place paycheck of $30,000.
Mark tied to the bridge
After the Pro’s launched for the day, Mark motored right back to the Winneconne Bridge, just 100 yards from where we had talked earlier. Tied off to the bridge, and within arm’s length of a Radtke barge, I started to talk to him a bit more about why this spot was better than any other spot. He didn’t hesitate to explain to me that the bridge and barge were slowing up the current. With the level of the water so high, this “eddy” was a break from the rushing water. Not news to those who fish the river year round, but any break in the current will usually hold fish.
Day 2 Leader
From all of “us good guys” I wish Mark the best today. I plan on running back to Winneconne this afternoon to watch the “live” weigh-in and would be ecstatic to congratulate Mark on a big win. If you can’t make it to Winneconne for the weigh-in, take the time to watch it “live” online. Hopefully tomorrow I can wrangle up some of those same fish the Pro’s caught, with my buddy as my co-angler.
Photos from this mornings Launch:
