Westernbass Magazine June 2011, Page 12

Westernbass Magazine June 2011, Page 12

LIFE LESSONS OF A Story & photos by Jody Only

LEGEND

Dee Thomas Shares His Wisdom

W

ith over half a century of fishing

experiences and 74-years of life

lessons to his credit, the legendary

“Father of Flippin”, Dee Thomas took the time to share some wisdom, offer some advice and

disclose some of the Dee-ism’s that make up one of

the most famed fishermen in the bass fishing industry.

As the sun began to warm an overcast day in

the unseasonably cool month of May, the Pro Bass

Fishing Hall of Famer sat on a “comfy chair” next

to his Ranger Boat just inside his garage. Stacked

next to the legend was a plethora of plastic boxes

holding baits with names that many may be too

young to remember. “Come sit down and we’ll

visit,” he beckoned.

“I started fishing in 1956; I have seen it all in bass

fishing, right down to the first, organized, Western

bass tournament and how it all evolved,” he began.

With a sharp memory for detail and a remarkable recollection for most every tournament, body of water, partner, catch and competitor, Dee wove together the pieces of much of the beginnings of bass fishing as a competitive sport, the family of influential fishermen that surrounded its history and a staggering list of achievements.

As the day began to dwindle, I mentioned to Dee that he had only briefly touched on how he conceived the Flippin’ technique and asked him if he would elaborate. Without hesitation he countered, “Guys know I did that, they don’t want to hear about that again.” He continued saying, “I am at the age in my life where I want to spend my time doing what I want and I want to pass on information that is important and they’ll want to hear”.

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