Yeah it’s not exactly high-brow reading, but that’s symptomatic of today’s click-bait focused press. It’s all about generating traffic and clicks to increase ad revenue. Quality journalism has taken a nosedive or can only be found behind a paywall.
I’ve got no major problem with the AT ‘article’, it is what it is, a 60 second read with no real substance. It does raise a discussion point though so it’s been useful there.
On topic, I’m usually happy to speak to people if they have questions for me. Angler or not. Im sure some people ask stupid questions on purpose though. Most non-anglers are polite and friendly, they say “morning” and share pleasantries.
Around here I tend to find two types of angling passer-by.
Character number one is the chavvy loudmouth stomping along the river bank making lots of noise. Often found shouting down the phone at someone, topless in the summer and usually with a can or spliff in hand. Their queries include; “YOU HAD ANY CARP/BARBEL PAL?”, “HOW MANY/HOW BIG/WHAT BAIT/WHERE DID YOU CAST etc…
They shout loudly and struggling and have no listening skills, but they do like to tell you about their great successes.
Character number two is what I call the amiable angler. Quiet, respectful, without a huge ego and always looking to learn and improve. They approach carefully and ask thoughtful questions without the need to get into a bragging contest. I like these people, I’ve got all the time in the world for them.
Character two is more likely to be a member on here. Character two is guaranteed to be an illiterate Facebook user.