How I Try to Fish New Water!

It is important to note that I am a Type A personality.  If you don't know what that means, here is a brief definition from WebMD:

The phrase "Type A" refers to a pattern of behavior and personality associated with high achievement, competitiveness, and impatience, among other characteristics.

In particular, the positive traits of a Type A personality include:

• Self-control
• Motivation to achieve results
• Competitiveness
• Multi-tasking skills

Meanwhile, the more difficult traits that come with a Type A personality definition include:

• Chronic competitiveness
• Impatience
• Aggression

Here is a list of things that I do prior to fishing new water, as a Type A Personality

1. Buy maps
2. Print off maps
3. Join Facebook groups, read posts, and ask questions
4. Contact friends that have had experience with the water
5. Maybe hire a guide
6. Conduct Google searches
7. Take notes in a spiral notebook, I'm not kidding
8. Look at Google Earth images
9. Watch YouTube videos
10. Visit fly shops and/or bait shops

If my approach sounds crazy, that's because it probably is.  I fit the bill of being a motivated, success-driven, and competitive individual.  I took a similar approach to basketball when I was in high school.  Speaking of which, shortly after college, fishing took the place of basketball for me and is my competitive outlet.  I see it as a competition against a formidable opponent with most of the rules for the game determined by the fish.  Please know that I am saying that my way is the right way.  If you are of a different personality that just enjoys the time on the water, I am envious of you.  Sometimes I wish I wasn't the way I am, but this is how I was made so I embrace it...most of the time.