If you've never rooted for the bass as it strains against your line, wraps you around a stump, or tail walks across the lake, you're probably new to fishing and believe that tournament or competitive fishing is fishing. Chuck the big bass boats, expensive equipment, depth finders and hype surrounding the "sport" and get yourself a jon boat with a 10 horsepower kicker and spend a day enjoying the the challenge, nature, a fishing partner,and the serenity and peace of nature. With each fish you catch, keep a log detailing time of day, lure used, topography,speed of retrieve, approximate depth, weather, and location. Soon, you will have compiled the best fishing "how to" book available. Forget about competing and winning; enjoy the day. Respect the fish, and learn to cheer its skill in fighting for its freedom. The "one that got away" will teach you a heck of a lot more about yourself and fishing than the one you hang on your wall.