Auburn University team member Shaye Baker shows off his catch en route to a first-place finish. Photo by Gary Mortenson. Anglers: Shaye Baker, Jt Rodgers, Dennis Parker, Jordan Lee.

August 16, 2011 • Shaye Baker • Angler Columns

I have had the unequivocal honor of getting to know the finest group of people out there.

I was blessed to fish for Auburn University in the College Fishing trail that FLW brought together just a few short years ago. There I watched as they orchestrated one of the smoothest operations I have ever been a part of. I saw boat yard workers get out of bed at 2 in the morning to check everything one last time.

I witnessed countless members of the crew bend over backwards to make certain that my family and I had everything we needed. I never met a face behind that FLW logo that didn’t break into a smile and offer up anything they could.

Now I am on the inside. And if there is one thing I can say for the face these people put on, it’s real. Never has there been a more sincere group of people assembled, from the guy that breaks the stage down and discards the spent confetti to the anglers that so proudly and respectfully represent their sponsors that have made all this possible.

The magazine staff has educated me on how to cover this sport and allowed me to fish alongside some of my heroes. The PR team has given me a place to be a part of this awesome organization. The entire crew has welcomed me in like family, because in effect I am. There is a bond that ties this group together, love. Love for the sport which incites love for one another.

I have made friendships that I intend to keep until I leave this earth.

As a fan I couldn’t be more impressed.

As a partner, I couldn’t be more proud.

Thanks to the crew. Thanks to my mentors. Thanks to my heroes.

Thank you for all you’ve done for me, for this sport and for the future.