Musings from a first time event participant (PIF)

I went to the PIF event this year because I have enjoyed reading the write ups the last couple of years, and it is the closest event. I also wanted to participate in something really positive and non competitive.

For a lot of us site lurkers, we use NCKA to see what is biting, where it is biting, and what equipment is hottest or selling on the classifieds. I see all of the regulars participating on most of the threads, posting stuff up, or offering their services/kudos/advice. I read the Albion/GS event write ups, imagine the chaos, and say one day I might do an event/tournament, but never do.

After this last weekend's PIF, I might just do a tournament next year. With this group that refers to itself as NCKA, we hear all the hyperbole about the brotherhood/group/caring family stuff......and it seems to be true. It is the craziest mix of backgrounds, ages, interests outside of fishing, socio-economic, or any other differences that people usually separate themselves using, but it all works.

For all of those who just want to lurk, I suggest you at least participate in next years PIF. When the flotilla was on the water, all 20 or something kayaks fishing within 50 yards from each other, it was pure awesomeness.   Yes, everyone wanted to hook up, but it didn't stop everyone from laughing, teasing, cracking, or sharing whatever they had brought out with everyone. It was the only time in recorded history that a 5 way tangle did not turn into a bitter fishing war. (How that dude kept it together I have no idea, but good for you for working it all free without getting a hook in the hand)

I also think there are quit a few cooks in this group that could base restaurants on the few dishes they brought. That was the most remarkable food spread I have tasted in a long long time. I know fishing people are very secretive of their "numbers", but if someone can kick me down the recipe for the Kalua Pork, and that awesome Spicy ass Chicken Curry, I would love you forever.

One more thing that really excited me...all the families that showed up. I told me daughter I didn't want to bring her because I did not know what it was all about. She was pretty excited when I said she would be going next year. Pretty darn cool to see all of the kids running around.

See you all around soon.

And now you know ...   

-Allen

I think you pretty much wrapped your head around the "brotherhood" that is ncka. 

Glad you had A good time!

AWESOME!!!

Yep...special community for sure!!! 

It was really nice to meet you and look forward to hopefully seeing you again soon!

 

Sincerely,

Jim

Great post, HFF.  It's for real.   

Great post. I was hoping to run into you--had some questions about the "north coast" of SC. And I am pretty sure you won something in the raffle too.

a Re-WelcomeToTheMadness! 

Great post. I was hoping to run into you--had some questions about the "north coast" of SC. And I am pretty sure you won something in the raffle too.

I just signed up for the Cambria Slam Down. I will find you there, and we can chat about SC.