Yoggy,
The big difference beween the USA and here first of all is that far more people per head of population fish in America. In the times I have been there, I have hardly met a white caucasian American who does not fish at some time during the year.
Because of the species there, which are mainly predatory, most people fish with lures and to a lesser extent flies. Although fly fishing is one of the fastest growing sports in this country, even faster I am told than golf.
The term: "Coarse Fishing", is of course unknown, although there is a tendency for some to call sitting on the banks of a river or lake with a baited rod - "N.gg.r Fishing"
A typical response when I tell an American that I fish is "Do you fly fish"?
When I answer yes they tend to say: "Wow that's so skillful - I think I would like to do it."
Although there is what can be termed - the Average Angler, who might fish a few times a year, mainly on vacation, the top angers take their sport VERY seriously indeed.
The most popular species by far is the Black Bass, both large and small mouth. The level of sheer technology devoted to catching this species would astound you.
Most American anglers fish from a boat. These are generally towed behind a vehicle, mainly a 4x4 truck which is fast becoming the most popular type of transport in the States. Angling is also very much a family sport. Wives and kids often go fishing with the man of the house.
The amount of money spent on tackle in the States is vast. With an estimated 45m anglers there, one can soon see why.
Angling is also encouraged, even at school level. And the annual Bassmaster tournament, which is televised, is watched by more people than the Cup Final in England, or so I am told.
All the top politicians fish by the way, from state senators to Bush himself.
The antis have no chance in that country.