Hanna and I worked consecutive trade shows – first the Chicagoland Fishing Show and then the Safari Club International. Re ran into numerous friends, some of whom have traveled with us, some of whom we’ve only corresponded with, and every permutation in between.

I’ve been fortunate to fish on some of the country’s best waters with some top pros and guides, but I always want more — here are five proven winners and the places I’d like to fish with them.