I want to make a few points before I get into the list. These are gross generalizations. Not everyone fits into these categories nor they do they include all types. Also, most of us fit into a few of these at different times of the year, some of us are all 5.
1. Salt-Water
This one is kind of broad. I left out surf casters because those guys are their own breed. When I think of saltwater fisherman I think of the guys down in the Keys fishing for big dolphin or tarpon. You know these guys tan from the constant sun, short sleeve button ups and Croakies on their Costa sunglasses. These guys are some of the toughest fighters in the fish world, bringing in some of the biggest fish. I'd like to note that the picture is of Roland Martin, a pro-bass fishermen, but I think he fits the bill.
2. Fly-Fishermen
Probably the smartest of all fishermen. Not only do they know all about how to find fish in the water, they can figure out what bug the fish was eating that day. A lot goes into selecting the right fly. Not only that, getting a size 22 dry fly to land perfectly on the water’s surface in the exact place you want is no easy task. They also are the rich guys of the fly fishing world. Fishing is expensive to begin with but when you include a $300 rod with $100 rod plus another $200 for waders it adds up. Don't even get me started if you tie your own flies.
3. Bass Fishermen
This is where I, and most other fisherman, get started. Nothing beats the thrill of chasing largemouth bass. Every cast has the potential for the fish of a lifetime. There's really no stereo-type for bass fisherman. The usual one is of rednecks but I think this unfair. Largemouth are found in every corner of the country and everybody chases them. The one thing they have in common is tackle. Tackle, tackle and more tackle. It's not uncommon to see somebody try a dozen different lures trying to hook into a trophy fish.
4. Surf-Casters
These are the guys you see walking down the beach at dusk when the sun bathers are leaving for the day. These guys cast ridiculously far to get past the surf and fight huge fish against the current. Sharks and striped bass are the target here. When I'm surf-casting, aside from the necessary tackle, a case of beer is a must have. The guys who use live bait here have the right idea. Just get your bait out into the water and relax.
5. Ice Fisherman
No one is more dedicated to the sport then these guys. Braving temperatures below freezing, huddling around a hole in the ice hoping a monster swims by. That's what I thought at least. I watched some videos on YouTube of guys in their clamshell shelters. It's basically a tent with a heaters and spots for your heaters. Regardless, standing out on the ice with a two-foot rod and four-pound test takes some real passion.
