Over the past two weeks Hanna and I worked consecutive trade shows – first the Chicagoland Fishing, Travel and Outdoor Show with our own booth, and then the Safari Club International Convention on behalf of Sport Fish Panama Island Lodge.
Along the way, we ran into numerous friends, some of whom have traveled with us, some of whom we’ve only corresponded with, and every permutation in between.
If you recognize yourself in any of the pictures above, please share the link.
Unfortunately, we were so engaged in the conversation and tall tale telling that we didn’t get pics of others who visited the booths including David Xiong, Tyler Uteg, Clifton Rutledge and Margie and Bobby Bernstein. We’ll be back next year.
Through our involvement with the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame and attendance at many great fishing events, we’ve gotten to meet many of our “heroes” — the people who shape the sport we love.
Steve Yatomi was a larger-than-life personality who was at his best developing new international fisheries and bringing out the best in his fellow anglers and travelers.
Taku Ito is a champion and fan favorite on the BASSmaster Elite Series -- but there's another species that's captured the Japanese pro's heart and dreams.


Why do so many elite bass pros love tuna fishing? See why Skeet Reese and other top anglers chase big tuna—and why Panama should be on your list.