Please indulge my thoughts while I weigh in on this Honey Hole TV situation.

Honey Hole TV was originally my idea back in 1986. As a young television producer (and with a passion for bass fishing) I approached Jerry and Debra Dean that summer with the original concept. No re-runs, no show over 2 weeks old when aired and 52 new episodes per year. My wife and I formed a partnership with Jerry and Deb for the original Honey Hole TV Magazine show. Our on air guests each week would be the HH magazine lake reporters, industry professionals, lake guides and anyone else we thought would be interesting for our viewers. During those first 4 years, we added Honey Hole Teleproductions, Honey Hole Radio and acquired the Fliptail lure company. I was the cameraman, editor, producer, radio host and the voice "talent" (and I use that word in jest) for the first 204 episodes. I have wonderful memories of those years and of the hard work, love and laughter that myself, my wife, Jerry and Deb shared those early years. I probably should write a memoir of those early years but I am probably the only person who would find it interesting.

During those early years, it was always a struggle to sell advertising and sponsorships. And this was during an era when Texas bass fishing was exploding! We were fortunate that we had a TV show, magazine and radio show to offer as a complete ad package to sponsors. This was years before the internet and youtube. Even with the ability to promote a sponsor in 3 different advertising mediums, we still all worked very hard to be successful. We didn't get rich although we certainly wanted to!

I honestly don't have the time to watch very much TV fishing these days but I applaud what everyone involved has done keeping my little TV show going after Jerry retired from it and it makes me very proud to know that something I started with my wife and Jerry and Deb, has continued to be on the air since November 1986. A lot of television shows can't say that.

Although I have never met Mark Jones, I have known Bill Wilcox for over 35 years and Bill is one of the hardest working guys I know. He also takes great pride in anything he does, whether it be fishing or not. I think Bill has been a perfect host to take over the torch these past several years for HHTV. The show is better in so many ways than it ever was (thanks to digital technology and better cameras, editing software, etc.) and Dirk is a great producer. And I think Jerry Dean would agree. And all of you who have watched the show since inception, I thank you for being such loyal viewers.

The media game has changed drastically since 1986. I salute Mr. Jones and his efforts to keep HHTV on the airways, anyway he can. It isn't easy being create in any media venue and I only wish him, Bill and Dirk nothing but the best in their endeavors.

My apologies for the long read. This post reflects my thoughts only and in no way should it be viewed as insulting to anyone who thinks differently than I.

Peace.

Thank you..
Was a big fan from the first show, great insight and vision to what we wanted to watch.
Fishing was a lot more fun back then IMHO....

Mark,
I would pay to watch Mark Perry and Bill do a Drop Shot show AGIAN.......

Do any of you older Honey Hole guys remember a man named Leonard Ranne?

Leonard is an uncle of mine, he is in the Fresh Water Hall of Fame. He used to talk about the old days with Dean. He also founded TBBU if you remember that. Had a lot to do with getting the Athens Center going. He isn't doing very well and sadly don't think he will be around much longer.

Mr Jones, public relations is not your strong point. JMO.But good luck to you and Honey Hole. Would love to see it back.

Who you calling old, Chris?

I disagree, any publicity is good publicity. I guarentee Holey Hole has picked up a few customers based on how long this thread has been goong.

Lmao @ Fastlane. You just dont get it. But after your last worthless comment we get you. It's nothing but plain jealousy. When I fished with Bill I wasn't a hammer on any lake. There are quite a few thatfish with him that are not hammers. And Bill fishes some lakes by himself. But once again you will have a negative comment. Like I said you showed your true self in your last post. People pay $1000.00 for a cell phone. Then pay $200.00 a month for service. But complain about paying $19.99 for 18 shows. Wow. That's pretty sad. And if you dont truly care what I say. Do not reply. I'm done. I can only handle so much jealousy and stupid comments

Yea when he comes to Palestine or Tyler he takes Kevin Hatcher. When he fishes the lakes by himself he goes back to the same spots. Seen it over and over. But if Bill is your hero that's okay with me...you're just ignorant.