Saturday, February 26, 2011
Interview with Matt of Functioning Fishaholics
As you read the interview you will find that at first Matt didn't even know how much fishing was ingrained in him. So, Just sit right back and you'll hear a tale, A tale of a fateful trip....wait I mean. Sit back and you'll get inside the mind of not only a great blogger, but a fisherman who loves the sport down to his core and it shows. I now introduce to you Matt.
Well Matt now that I have every ones attention why did you start Functioning Fishaholics?
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| It's Matt |
A group of guys, some fish, and one very big nerd… or rather. My fishing buddies and I needed a place to store and share pictures of the fish we caught as well as our fishing logs and stories. At the time I was writing three other blogs about technology, wine, and cell phone programming so I was able to use that experience and apply it to fishing. As I got more involved with the site I came to realize that fishing has really been a core passion of my entire life. What started out as a simple fishing buddy website has now evolved into a vehicle that allows me to share my love of fishing with the world. (My other fishing buddies think I’m nuts)
What is your favorite aspect of blogging?
Sharing with the community. If I can write one article or share one picture and it helps another fisherman, I have done my job. I want to share my obsessive quest for information and experience with the world. I have met so many wonderful people since I started blogging. It always amazes me how we can come from different walks of life or even political parties, yet fishing and a love for the outdoors ties us together.
Name your three favorite blogs other than your own?
I’d give a shout to Kari www.idontwearpinkcamotothewoods.com but she’s gotten enough love already from this site! (and yes this is my attempt at listing 4)
Nate over at http://www.fishinginpa.com/ is an honorary Functioning Fishaholic. I can always count on him for support and feedback about what I write. His blog and interests involve freshwater fishing, fly fishing, lure making, kayak fishing, and even fly tying. He is someone to keep your eye on!
Tommy over at http://followingghost.blogspot.com/ is a fantastic artist, outdoors man, and twitter friend. His site is worth the visit just to see his art. The guy is a genius! If you are a fisherman or hunter you will also find some really good writing on his page. Tommy has a writing style that pulls you in and makes you feel like you are actually on the fishing trip with him. He’s also making and painting some really fine lures!
What can I say about Mike from http://www.troutrageous.com/ hmm… Not much. All kidding aside Mike lives right around the corner from me and writes a much better fishing blog than I do. Please don’t go to his site. He writes about fly fishing and Tenkara fishing and all sorts of other interesting topics. He even includes a good dose of humor and ‘slightly dressed’ women holding fishing poles!
If you could provide us with only one blogging tip what would it be and why?
Don’t write about anything you don’t love. Don’t write because of money. Don’t write without passion. You could be the worst writer in the world but if you have passion about what you write people will find your site and enjoy it. If you learn something new tell the world about it! Who cares if someone else has already told the story 1000 times? Writing is personal, you have a voice and if you have passion people will line up to read what you have to say!
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
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| I think anyone could draw inspiration in a place like this. |
The stillness. Have you ever had a moment where time stops and everything just makes sense? Fishing for me has so many of these Zen like moments. Maybe it’s that hush that falls over a rocky stream bank right before a fish strikes. Perhaps it’s the peace and perfection that comes from tying flies. All I know is fishing and all things fishing are my meditation. Fishing is a state of mindfulness, it reminds me of who I am. It reminds me of my place in nature and my standing with God.
What is the best part of fishing?
Not being at work.
In your opinion what is the best type of fishing?
Side stepping the fresh/salt and fly/bait/lure arguments here… The best type of fishing is fishing with a buddy. The rivalry and smack talk between fellow fishing friends is one of life’s true joys!
What was the best fishing trip you have ever been on?
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| Matt are you sure that Muskie is 20" looks al ittle smaller than that to me? |
Last Fall I caught my first Muskie at Marsh Creek reservoir. It was a stocked Muskie only about one year old and 20” long but it was my first. Something about catching a species of fish I’ve never caught before was very special to me.
Where did you learn how to fish?
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| I think your mom could out fish me too! What a nice bass. |
My mom grew up in Potter County Pennsylvania. There are two types of people up there: People who hunt and fish, and people who live somewhere else. I always feel funny saying my mom taught me how to fish but ever since I could walk I’ve been going on fishing trips with mom. While I’ve moved away from her bait and wait technique I must admit she still kicks my butt on any fishing trip we go on.
What takes up your time beside fishing, and writing?
Technology. I’m an IT guy by trade and also an avid Xbox 360 player. I think being so involved in technology really allows me to see how important getting outdoors really is!
Finally if there is anything you would like to add here is your chance to give us some of your wisdom.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to read this interview and a GIANT thanks to Ben for all of your hard work! I’m always on the lookout for new outdoors friends! Please stop over to my site and leave me a comment.
Also remember to take care of the outdoors! If you see someone else has left a mess do the animals a favor and clean it up!
Matt I thank you taking time out of your busy blogging and Xbox 360 schedule to do an interview with us. It is greatly appreciated. I am very glad I have had the chance to meet someone as passionate as you are about fishing it shows all through out your blog. Thanks again. Hey everyone don't forget to check out The Functioning Fishaholics blog I know you will like it.
Ben G.
Matt I thank you taking time out of your busy blogging and Xbox 360 schedule to do an interview with us. It is greatly appreciated. I am very glad I have had the chance to meet someone as passionate as you are about fishing it shows all through out your blog. Thanks again. Hey everyone don't forget to check out The Functioning Fishaholics blog I know you will like it.
Ben G.
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4 comments:
Ben, I read your Crappie article, nice work. You're right, there is nothing like getting into a school of crappie, because you are guaranteed numbers. In my opinion, they are one of the best eating fish around.
Greg, thanks for checking out my article. They do taste good.
Great read guys and thanks for the links to several other good reads.
I've got to get back to fishing. My 4 boys love fishing. I guess we've spent most of our time hunting this past year and a half.
Time to stick a line in the water. Thanks for reminding me of how much I enjoy fishing.
Very cool interview Matt and Ben! I always love to read them because it's a great way to get to know people better.
Matt's a funny guy and a great twitter follow too (@funcfish) and I'm not just sayin' that because he mentioned my blog either... although the $ he sent did help! lol! Just teasin'!
Once again great interview guys, and thanks Matt for the shout!
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