I'm not an expert!

I got a crabby anonymous e-mail this week from a guy who called me "a so-called expert" on angling.

In a way he is right, as I'm not an expert angler, even though I've happily fished my brains out for 38 years. I believe there is always something new to learn about fishing, and I've learned new stuff from a 12-year-old bass angler, an 80-year-old man and my father-in-law, Harold Long, during the past few months.

But this guy is also wrong, as I've never billed myself as an expert. I make too many blunders to ever call myself an expert. I do catch fish, but you can't help but learn a few things -- and catch a few fish -- if you've been obsessed with angling for almost four decades.

My obsession is taking me to Costa Rica next week to fly fish for sailfish, roosterfish and other burly saltwater fish. Harold is coming along, and we're hoping for lots of big fish.

I'll post to this blog during my trip if there is Internet access where I'm going. I know there will be lush jungle, screeching monkeys, sunning iguanas and a big, warm ocean.

I'm sure I'll learn more about fishing in Costa Rica, but, most of all, I'm hoping for lots of laughs, beautiful sights and pure relaxation.

I learned years ago that those three things are the best parts of any fishing trip.

See you soon!