I suppose that I'm one of the fortunate few who can honestly say that I've been fishing for as long as I can remember. Growing up in the state of Maine afforded me multiple opportunities to pursue many species of fish in fresh and salt water. I'm told that my first fish was a catfish caught from a small pond in New Hampshire, and that it scared the daylights out of me. Fortunately, the experience didn't scar me enough to keep me from developing a great love for the sport.

My fascination grew by leaps and bounds a few years later when I received a fly rod for my birthday. While most kids were playing kickball, I was busy trying to fool anything that swims into biting a fly. Although I did participate in baseball and basketball in the upcoming years, the die had already been cast. I continued to fish as often as possible. I still enjoy conventional fishing, but when conditions are right my preferred method of angling is with the fly rod.

I'll never cease to be amazed at the variety that the New England states have to offer in the way of angling opportunities. One could spend a few lifetimes sampling them. Although most of my years have been spent in Maine, I have also been fortunate enough to live and fish in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. I have spent the past four years in Connecticut with my wife, and continue to be impressed by the fishing this state has to offer.  The saltwater fishing in Long Island Sound is very reliable, and the proximity to the rocky coast of Rhode Island is appealing.  The lakes, ponds, and rivers also provide nearly year-round action.

My favorite fish to chase are northern pike and smallmouth bass in freshwater, and striped bass, bluefish, and hickory shad in saltwater.  I also fish for trout, panfish, and the like, but my love for the aforementioned species tends to occupy most of my fishing time.

Tying flies keeps me sane, particularly during the colder months.  My wife also likes to occasionally tie flies, which is a direct result of her relationship with me.  She is turning into quite the angler herself, and sometimes I just like to sit back and watch her catch fish.  It’s the least I can do, since she tolerates my obsession so well.