ICAST is over. I have to say it was one of the better ones. The crowds looked to be good and, from what I could see, the buyers were buying. That tells me the industry is improving. That’s what we want.
It’s always been amazing to me how companies and individuals think when they make tackle and lures. Some of it is really creative. You see all kinds of stuff you didn’t know you needed until you see it, and then you realize you can’t possibly go fishing without it.
It’s obvious that anglers had the original idea. It’s also obvious that engineers and people like that built the stuff. It’s darn near a full-time job just to stay informed about what’s new in this business.
I do want to say a few words about Power-Pole, specifically, and not because they are one of my sponsors. It’s because they are a company to be admired. They won their class — Boating Accessory — and they won Best of Show with their small boat Micro-Anchor.
That tells us that their management has vision and that they are producing products that work for ordinary anglers. They aren’t the only company doing this but they are one of the best. What else is there to say?
That was last week, though. This week it’s time to get going on our sixth annual Future Pros Fishing Camp which will be held July 20. It’s one of the highlights of the year for the Lane family. We get to showcase our profession and show kids what fishing is really all about.
I say that because even though our name says pros we’re really trying to get kids to appreciate the outdoors and to appreciate what it’s like to catch a fish. We want them to spend a little less time on their computers and smart phones and a little more time appreciating what Mother Nature has given us. That’s not so much about professional bass angling as it is living life to the fullest.
As always we have lots of sponsors. I want to offer a special thanks to Stren, Frogg Toggs, All Star Rods, Shakespeare, TH Marine, Mustang Survival, Luck “E” Strike, Power-Pole, Legend, Mercury Marine, Swiftwick, LB3 Outdoors, Oakley, Bob Hembree Chevrolet, Gander Mountain, Flambeau, Bass Pro Shops, Snag Proof, Lowrance, Optima, CR&G, Guntersville Boat Mart, Fish Lake Guntersville, Kylie Sparks and Tony Chachere.
The festivities will include fishing, seminars, casting competitions, take-home tacklebags and photo ops. Heck, Stren is even providing a knot tying station. I might give that a visit myself. That’s almost always the weakest link between you and the fish. A little extra knowledge in that department never hurts.
I encourage everyone to remember those companies that support programs like this if they have products that meet your needs and I encourage everyone to get involved with our youth. It’s rewarding.
Once our Future Pros Fishing Camp is over I’ll spend a few days relaxing and getting ready for the last two events of the 2013 season. I don’t have to tell you I need a couple of strong finishes.