Annual observations around the Beginning of the Ice season

[lots of luck]

Is it the ice conditions, snow conditions, holidays, generally foul weather, but why does it seem that around this time each season FM/HSO often gets the tone of heated, angry, you're doing it wrong, I am correct, I am smarter, don't tell me the ice is or is not safe, keep fish or don't keep fish, etc, etc, etc....

My assumption is that this time of year brings in a lot of members to FM/HSO. At times I think there is a clash of ideas, newbies with the regulars and newbies vs. newbies. The veterans on here have learned to ignore or look past a lot of the garbage or they can just simply put the smack down on you, as moderator knows best, loss of priveledges to be a part of this site.

With this in mind I think we need to stay open minded and allow individuals to post without fear of being verbally assaulted. But also understand that if you're new to this site there is a written code and a unwritten code of conduct. I had posts pulled as a newbie. I have learned was is acceptable and what is not acceptable.

I just think constructive criticism is good, even a little elbowing in the side once in a while is fun. But there has been a lot of bashing lately.

Let's play nice and use this HSOforum as a resource to gain knowledge, share knowledge, give tips and techniques and to meet other sportsmen with similar interest. Keep in mind this should be about having fun.

If I am way out in left field on this one please don't bash me, but let me know. Maybe I am just a girly man.

Take care and thanks to all those who contribute/share and make the outdoors that much more fun and interesting.

I just don't want this site to end up like many other online forums, nothing but fighitng, bickering and name calling.

Lots of Luck

[jigging-matt]

Well said lots of luck, I agree about a few more angry post than in the past.

[trapperdirk]

Don't sweat it lad its just the yearly right of passage as some are waiting on ice but you must agree at times it is frustrating for those who answer a question only to see the same question started in the very next thread . I mean come on, if its been buried a few pages back OK but some should at least read down the front page or if you give them the answer in the thread don't ask the same question again in the same thread cause your too lazy to already read whats been written . That's rude too and disrespectful . Myself I don't like being some impatient kids yoyo that jumps when they DEMAND answers as I'm working my way down the list .Nobody minds answering but get inline and also read back or try search if its to slow forthcoming .

TD

[hanson]

The last few weeks I haven't been online for the entire weekend and when I log back in on Monday, the Ice Fishing forum has 5-6 pages of new stuff to read. Yikes!

Lots of folks are using the site now, that is for sure. Lots of folks with different opinions which is good too.

I'm fairly confident about this, we will not allow bashing & personal attacks on the site. The friendly atmosphere makes this a great place to visit. You can expect us to work hard to maintain this type of environment.

[eyepatrol]

I agree with you lots of luck. It is rather difficult at times to make a post or reply to posts without someone taking issue with your comments, suggestions, personal policies, etc. Too often it seems others wish to impose their personal beliefs and policies upon another and it fuels a bickering match. I myself have become caught up in debates in the past, especially in my first year of membership. However now days, if I don't have something good to say, I just don't say it. I agree to disagree without making it known in a post.

I've also found that one has to be cautious of the words typed in your post as they can easily be misunderstood. Example...."today I got 7 walleyes and yesterday I got 9 all of which were between 12" and 18" in size". Too often there are those who are quick to accuse you of keeping over your limit, quick to judge you on the size of fish you got, when in fact you maybe caught that many, but only kept 2 fish in the 17" - 18" range for a meal.

I had a hard time deciding to even respond to this post in fears that my response might lead to inflammatory comments, but I did want to let you know I understand where you're coming from and agree with you. Sharing stories/reports, providing positive information, and having fun in a good healthy atmosphere is what this site is about IMO. Having debates is also a healthy thing to do as it can bring out some very good information, but only to a point where the debates are respectful of each others thoughts, standards or beliefs.

Good post....something like this has been on my mind as of late too.