When I won the Angler of the Year title in 2008, I called everyone I knew to spread the news and even told a few folks I didn't know. But when I asked Jim Rice Jr. about winning this years title and how many AOY jackets he now owned he replied "I'm not sure, I'll have to go to the closet and count them." His laid back attitude hardly resembles one of a fierce competitor but for those who've fished against Jim know otherwise. He is a great fishermen and competitor and that's why he is the 2009 Angler of the Year.
If anyone is counting I personally think this title makes number six but all I know is it's a lot more than anyone else. I was thoroughly impressed by his consistency in 2009, when a lot of anglers were struggling during this weird year, Jimbo caught limits in six of the eight tournaments and won twice. Probably a more impressive stat is on day #2 at Wixom when he brought nearly 15 pounds to the scales, almost doubling anyone elses weight.
I look forward to 2010 and the chance to win my second AOY title but I realize this, as long as Jim is in the club, I will have to earn it and would not be suprised if he puts #7 in the closet. Hopefully I didn't just jinx him but I can use all the help I can get. Great job Jim.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment