My 4 year anniversary with CAG, First Fishing Folly 2004-2008... Options

[louis]

My friend Matt got me interested in CAG and this forum. We had been carp fishing pretty seriously for a couple years together, but certainly never dreamed of a competition of any kind. I must admit, I was reluctant to join the group, or even read anything on this forum, although Matt told me plenty of times how much went on in here and how fun it was. It was the FFF that peaked my interest. We fished in the cold plenty of times, and I felt like there was a good chance we could catch in this competition. I am a pretty silly guy and I loved the idea that this competition was for fun, and just a bit ridiculous to be fishing on New Years Day. So I took Matt up on his offer to fish in freezing weather on New Years Day with the Carp Anglers Group.

We fished our favorite local hole a few days before the event, and while I only had one fish, Matt had at least 5 that I can remember, including his PB mirror of 18 lbs. This got us very excited for the FFF only a few days later. So we baited over the next few days, but didn't fish until Jan 1. Here is the real report, written by Matt 4 years ago today:

Arrived at the swim to find my buddy sleeping in the dirt with a 1/2 gallon water jug as a pillow and a box of powdered milk as a cushion. I blanked, he caught a 14lber in 37F water.

Here's Louis fresh from a nap in the dirt with first carp for 04'.



Best, Matt

And my Follow up... My first ever post on the CAG forum:

This was a great idea. It even moivated me enough to start posting. Count me in for next year, dirt naps and all. Thanks. LC

You can read the whole thread here, lots of familiar faces:
http://www.carpanglersgroup.com/forum/inde...amp;#entry43374


Yesterday went a bit differently. I bailed on fishing locally with Matt to try a warm water discharge with some other CAG members, Rob and Dan. The two of them, who I had never met, had baited up the discharge for a few days, and generously invited me. I am always looking for new fishing buddies, so I made the drive in hopes of some coal heated carp with new friends. Rob and Dan went hardcore and fished all night from midnight on. I arrived around 1pm after a long night of "traditional" New Years celebration. I was shocked to learn, after introductions, that they had not had a single carp, and only 1 channel catfish. The trend continued until I wussed out at about 4pm. Still, I have blanked on much more favorable days, and I felt good for trying. Even though we came out empty handed, this was a perfect example of why CAG is so great. I met 2 new guys to fish with, that I would never have found otherwise, and we had a great time together. The first of many I hope. All the places I have been, The adventures I have had, and the friends that I have made through CAG have been priceless. Thank you all.

Louis

[Rob Byer]

It was a pleasure meeting you Louis and look forward to fishing with you again. Im sorry we werent on the fish but it was fun anyway.

[Matt]

Nice one Louis.

[John Bramley]

You guys have always been nutz then

Nice write up Louis

[MarkTheShark]

Great post Louis

[Carpaholic]

Good stuff, that is what its all about.

[Tommy Robinson]

Nice one Mr. Prez .

[Carp Zombie]

Very Cool Stuff guys!!.....No fish this time but spring will be here and thats when ya make up for it. Thanks for sharing Louis.

[miguel126]

Nice Louis

[Jerome]

Very cool, Louis. I had no recollection that it was the FFF which drove you towards CAG and the forum. Now this feels good!

I did remember your first pic though, how could anyone forget it?

[Rodman]

Good work. Mr president