Subject: Many Thanks!

Date: 9/13/98

Email: NMDatsea@aol.com

Dear BUTCH;

CAPTAIN, MY CAPTAIN, What have you done? After our trip on September 3, my beloved weakfish and blues of the Deleware Bay will never be the same. Now, I have only the Stripers of Fall to look forward to.

What a spectacular trip we had. Quality and Quantity. The Redfish and Snook were on a suicide mission. The weather wasn't what a fisherman would hope for to start off the day, but with Nancy's OK and your positive feelings the fish would bite. We stepped into the box and hit a Grand Slam. I never expected to do so well.

My earliest memories are of fishing with my Dad, I've done lots of lower budget fishing, a bunch of offshore and inshore charters, and I've been around. BUT, you really impressed me. You have got one great operation going. When Nancy and I left you for the drive back to the resort we both felt like we were leaving a friend. Your equipment and the BARHOPPR are top shelf, but more important is your fish-side manner. We felt more like we were fishing with a friend who was in familiar waters than with some guy we just met who runs a fishing guide business. And yes, it surprises Nancy, but I admit I did learn from you. Also, I've been practicing with the cast net. You never know when we'll make a return appearnace.

You may be thinking that my tune would be different if the fish hadn't cooperated. Well, as I said, I've been around and I know fishin' ain't always catchin'. From my observations, I believe you would have done all you could to get us tight lines and the trip still would have been an enjoyable learning experience in a beautiful area.

Thank you again for a GREAT day. Nancy sends her best. We look forward to fishing with you again. Until then, it will gbe good to hear from you.

Good Fishing

Marty Dietz