Rik

[Ernest]

Rik:

I would suggest you have already impacted my snapper fishing style and approach. I was at a SCA deal years ago, and we (you, me, and a few other guys) discussed the whole sounder speed, sounder set up deal that has certainly improved my fish finding. I have owned your book for years, used your recommendations for getting a new sounder, and as a result in part of my recommendations, I think you have worked with at least two (if not more) of the folks from my marina on electronic set up and use.

Please, don't misunderstand my position. I am first and foremost interested in protecting and increasing our rec. TAC. I truly believe we are getting the short end of the stick (to put it nicely). No doubt in my mind whatsoever. None.

My frustration is with the manner in which we (the recs.) are presenting our arguments in light of the framework we are required to work within for this issue. I think we need to go after the shrimp bycatch issue, go after the model from a scientific perspective, and most importantly, illustrate the economic impact of the private boat recs. and 6 packs on our local communities. I am also a huge believer in reefs - the more the better.

I think the only signficant point you and I might truly part company on is the first five deal.

I would consider supporting shooting a few dolphin each year (with appropriate caliber restrictions, like nothing smaller than 30 cal.) or at least some reporductive restrictions. Don't think that would sell though. (This last part is kinda tongue in cheek).

[Rsnap]

Thank you Ernest for a very thoughtful answer. I am glad you you bought a book & the fact that you reminded me about "sounder speed" & what I said
improvrd your fishing as that is a concept that goes against the instructions
& conv. wisdom. I hope you can contribuite to my understanding of the process
as I like others are clearly frustrated by this difficult matter. I will try harder to understand your message in the future as this is an Important matter to us all or we would shut down our computors & listen to music. Much more soothing to the soul. Thank you for listening & networking as it is clear you do understand
even a crude guy like me. Perhaps one day we can bridge the gap that seperates men who should be brothers in a cause as Important as this.
Rik

[CHARLIE]

Hey Rik

I think ole Ernest got up on the better side of the bed today.

Charlie

[wet dreams]

Hey Rik it was Ernest that 'turned me on' to what you have to offer a yr or so back. He used to keep his boat across from me but its been in 'Drydock' for a yr and havnt seen much of him but hopeing that will change soon. It seems he gets ragged a lot on the issues reguarding snappers but I can say hes full of info and if you cant see it from his postings hes an attorney and looks at most all from the legal aspect and presents his aspect from the legal side. From visiting with him a few times I do know he is very dedicated in the issues. WW

[Rsnap]

Thanks Walter! I forced myself to go back & re read many "Ernest" posts to have a better understanding & I am not saying I have this complex man figured out by any means, but:

I know two things about him.
(1) He does listen & come at things differently! (now I know he is an attorney I know why stuff that sets me & others off does not shake him) & if he can embrace some of
my comments - example - my take on "Dplphin getting worse over time - getting smarter & adapting" & coming up with an answer I had not even thought of even if
tongue & cheek - " I would consider supporting shooting a few dolphin each year...
with appropriate caliber restrictions" - well I rolled on the ground & relized point no. two.
(2) Not only do I want you on our side but, we should all want to party with you -
Ernest.
Rik