~ ~
Mike Radice

Mike Radice, Midvale, UT

As a self-imposed fishing nut, over the years Mike Radice has dragged friends and family to various fishing holes throughout the Intermountain West – some came along willingly, some not so willing. But to be honest, he's got it pretty bad. Says Mike, "I’m the proud owner of 15 fishing rods. No one needs more than one at a time but it is amazing how many different applications there are for different fish species. Wait, make that 19 rods, I forgot my four ice-fishing rods. The life of a fishing nut can be overwhelming at times; only a few years ago I thought I was doing well with the one rod I’d bought out of a discount bin – let’s face it, fishing is addictive.

I have enjoyed all types of fishing and find challenges every time I go. In particular, bass fishing is a passion. But converting those bass skills for trout fishing brings out the best in me. Fishing is like chemistry - grab a few things, mix them together, and then see what happens. There are no end to the mysteries to be solved - will a bass grub catch trout, will a strange trailer excite a huge predator, and did I bring enough bologna to last the day?

My one claim to fame is catching two 20-pound lake trout from my float tube. It took over 20 minutes of spinning, grunting, and reeling to finally heft each monster above my head, and not tip over in the water; what a thrill. Beyond all of the hoop and the la, fishing is one of the best, time-honored rituals on the planet. It is also the best way I know of to relax and allow the pressures and stresses of life to just float away."