When I held the position of roving reporter for a fishing magazine, the editor expected me to be factual. Along with that responsibility came the necessity of being controversial, if there were difficult subjects someone has to air them and put views in print.

These topics usually brought the famous, or infamous 'Letters To The Editor', I have to be truthful and say I loved them.

Controversy brings out the best and the worst in people. The best ideas can be kicked around until a consensus would be formed, this could then be used for representative ideas to angling clubs, national bodies, sometimes even government. I was involved with the Volkner Rocks marine reserve, and that was a highlight. There were some brilliant letters from readers, both for and against, and then there were others.

I will happily start a topic that could draw responses from both side of the spectrum, that is what topics are all about. Please don't think there are personal issues with regards to the chosen subject, there isn't, it's simply to give members the opportunity to air their constructive views if they so wish.

The subject, large, mega dollar surfcasting competitions.

It is reasonable to assume that locals have a certain advantage in knowing what spots are producing, and more importantly, what baits are working well. Now it's the last part I am suggesting could be discussed.

Would it make for a level playing field if competitors were limited to using, for example only, three nominated baits? The organising club or committee could rule the only baits that can be used are (again example only) pilchards, bonito and pipis, or a combination of any of these.

This idea would remove the home advantage and give every competitor, no matter where they have come from, the same chance as locals. The home angler will still have a small advantage over where the fish are (or were) but as far as bait is concerned, every competitor is on a par.

I feel it necessary to add, I don't fish competitions, the last time I entered one would have been thirty-five years ago, so there is nothing personal is this topic.

We'll see how this goes, if it is supported I am sure there are other ideas that can be discussed also.