Awareness is good!

I've gotten some "random" comments about posting fishy related material on the internet.  A few were very, passionate, and accused me of destroying the "wonder" of the "natural world".  I won't repeat the comments b/c it won't create a positive environment or intelligent conversation.  Plus, internet spats are just sad.

However, I will explain why I disagree and feel like posting is a good thing.  I created this blog to share my love of the outdoors, and more importantly, to protect the "wonder" of the "natural world".  Not to brag, or self promote.

For years, I practiced the, don't share attitude.  But decided that philosophy doesn't work b/c it doesn't create any value or stakeholders.  I'm still vague on the locations, but that's b/c I don't want to be fishing beside 100 of my closest friends.  Not, b/c I feel like it's hurting the fishery.  Rather, in my opinion the fisheries are being hurt by poorly educated anglers and a few bad apples.  We need more people with a vested interested in the fisheries and outdoors in general.  I hope my posts encourage others to get outside and experience these "wonders".  And in return, keep a watchful eye over these treasures and protect them for future generations.

I post to create awareness and hopefully some value.  Organizations like, Trout Unlimited (TU), Orvis, The Missouri Smallmouth Alliance (MSA) and many others, have learned that creating and promoting the beauty of the outdoors does more good than harm.  Creating value for people will build a community with a common goal...protect the resources we find most valuable.  There is strength in numbers.  Not convinced, check out this video from TU, Chris Wood speech.



State of Trout Unlimited from Trout Unlimited on Vimeo.


Further, I recommend wearing a PFD, safe fish handling practices, catch and release, or responsible harvesting (nothing wrong with catch and keep), and leave no trace camping.  Fishing from a kayak is also better for the environment and has some obvious health benefits.

I feel like we need to get more people kayaking, camping, enjoying the environment, and fishing in general...anything outside!  In my opinion, more people loving and protecting the "natural world" is a good thing.

Below are a few links to visit and learn how promoting the outdoors creates value and protects the resources.  If you know of others plz post in the comments.  More awareness is a good thing.

Trout Unlimited

The Missouri Smallmouth Alliance

Orvis - conservation