"Thinking BIG is FUN, and it really is effective. Be optimistic and look at that stickup; there might be a hundred of 'em, but look at the one you're going to throw to and conjure up an image of a truly big fish - something you want to catch. It really instills confidence and keeps your enthusiasm going. Much of the enjoyment of fishing is nothing more than to anticipate what's going to happen on the very next cast."

"I work harder and harder each year. My work is never done. I continue learning. I put in a lot of time and research. I talk to a lot of people about the lake. I cover the water thoroughly. I spend a lot of time on the water practicing. I'll fish shallow or deep - whatever it takes. I don't have any particular preference. Whatever lure it takes, whatever action it takes, whatever retrieve it takes, my ultimate goal is to put fish in the boat. I have an obsession to WIN." (BASSMaster Magazine, March 1983)

“Look at where Jesus went to pick people. He didn’t go to the colleges… he got guys off the fishing docks.“

“If your concentration is getting bad, take up bass fishing. It will really improve your ability to focus. If you aren’t ready when that fish hits, you can’t set the hook.“

“The two biggest things that translate from a pitching mound to hunting and fishing are patience and perseverance. When you’re on the mound, you have to take the game one pitch at a time, regardless of the score, and that approach helps when I’m in the woods or out on the water as well.“