Jack in the Outback

I picked up your magazine at a Barnes & Noble bookstore and was sort of taken aback at the sight of Jack Nicklaus on the cover. I experienced a strange déjà vu sensation, and here's why.

I picked up your magazine at a Barnes & Noble bookstore and was sort of taken aback at the sight of Jack Nicklaus on the cover. I experienced a strange déjà vu sensation, and here's why.

Years ago while in one of the most remote regions of Austalia's Outback, I walked down a path back to our tent camp after fishing for barramundi. Who walked by me with a guide in the opposite direction – none other than the Golden Bear. He nodded cordially and I did likewise, and I instantly recognized him. Neither of us stopped, however, because we both seemed intent on reaching separate destinations before losing the sunlight.

This might not seem all that remarkable until I also mention that shortly thereafter I experienced an unfortunate accident that kept me from fishing again for nearly 20 years. On my first fishing expedition since that time, I went to Key West with friends to try and catch blue marlin, yellowfin tuna and the like. As I walked into a fly shop near Mallory Square, I'll be doggone

if I didn't see Jack Nicklaus walking out. Since he had several people with him, I let him pass without comment.

But I swear, if I again show up thousands of miles from home on a fishing junket and Jack pops up, I'm going to start believing in astrology.

Daniel Farr - New York, NY