I fished with a guy for many years that turned out to be a jerk. The first 5 were fine the next 2 there were some red flags but fine, the last 3 he became someone that made so my poor decisions on the water I couldn't stand to be on his boat. I was mired in a divorced and had sold my boat but it had gotten so bad and he had gotten so bad I made the choice to just find some small ponds to fish.
I got remarried, bought another bought, then a nicer boat. I fished mostly by myself out of fear that the next guy would be like the last one. My wife went a few times but didn't have a lot of fun because I didn't listen.
My son-in-law started going but my step daughter would start texting two hours into a trip asking when we were coming home. It would be non-stop. She made his life miserable. I fished by myself and was happy. In September of 2022 I had a stroke. No more fishing by myself.
It has been difficult to find anyone to go but a funny thing happened. My wife has gone everytime I have wanted and we have had a blast.
A little back story: she would go before but didn't want to stay out there for 10 hours. I heard but didn't listen. (Talk about a jerk) I was giving instruction as if she had the skill level of a seasoned angler. (Talk about a jerk).... there's more. Anyway fast forward to 2024.
We go for short 5-6 hour trips; I don't over coach, we talk a lot, laugh, bought a pee can, she brings whatever picnic snacks she wants, and she's having fun!
Tresa is having fun because I finally got out of my own way and was forced to listen. She's a great partner and wanted to stay out yesterday a little later!
After she lost a nice fish she came up with a one liner that made me smile. It hit home: : "Fishin' will make you cuss." She said it light heartedly and with goodwill.
One last thing: I have read for many years on this website many of the ramp champions brag about their launch/load skills and berate anyone whom can't do these tasks in less than 5 minutes. I have to walk with a cane now and it takes me a while to launch and load. If that bothers you in any way either get over it or take a hike. Me and Tresa helped an elderly couple load their pontoon yesterday because they were having trouble. It's public water, they have every right to be there. Compassion is free, try it some time.
Anyway, back on topic: if you are fortunate to find a good fishing partner hold onto them, they're worth their weight in Gold!
