Getting the shoe cleaning kit out of the cupboard under the stairs, there's my box of photo albums, seems like 1996 was the year I could do no wrong, weekly catches of decent carp, all weathers, several venues, was on fire till about '98. Used to roll my own bait, own recipe, walk round lakes in my lunch hour, total fishing head on. Also still had some hair on head as opposed to out my ears and nostrills.
Now what happened in 1998-2008? Started a family with the current Mrs Mainwaring, result = fishing decline BUT albums now contain photos of my fantastic kids.
What's your best years?

Best year for me has got to be 1991 without a doubt.
Was that the year I always had a result when out dangling a line----No.
Was that the year I could do no wrong on any water I fished----No
There are a few reasons why it could have been the best year for me but the best reason is that it was in 1991 that I sat across the table from my then bank manager, who, in his high and mighty way, virtually demanded my signature on the necessary paperwork to make me bankrupt to clear my debts from a disastrous attempt at self employment. I just looked him in the eyes and told him that he could take as much money as he needed to from my account as soon as I got myself back to sea and sorted out.
It took a long time to do it, but I eventually cleared every penny of debt, paid for myself to go to college (twice) and I am now only 1 oral examination away from becoming a Master Mariner, able to be Captain of any size ship on any Ocean or in any country. As it stands at the moment I can only Captain a ship of 3000 tons or less (anywhere/any ocean etc).
So, 1991 was great for me because it was the year that changed my life forever.
Sorry it has nothing to do with fishing guy's!!

Cheers :D :D :D

Nice story though, I can tell you are pleased with your efforts, hard work will always pay off IMO.

A very different line of work Seafarer but i bet the responsibility is massive. I dare say it can get very stressful.
Good luck on your final exam mate.