A Crew Of One -- The Odyssey of a Solo Marlin Fisherman

Archived Guestbook Entries.

Thank you for visiting "A CREW OF ONE, The Odyssey of a Solo Marlin Fisherman." I would enjoy hearing from you. I invite you to come and sign my new guestbook.

06/11/2005

Ahhh, Carlos, I see a great story for your next book. Your message had me eager to read the next word, the next line! As I mentioned to you following your speaking engagement at West Marine in Annapolis about six months ago, your descriptions of seeking and battling marlin creates a feel for being at the scene of the fishing event. The way a white marlin feels on the line as you wait to set the hook was never better described than how you did it in "A Crew of One". And, I have read plenty in my nearly 50 years on this magnificent earth. I just need to feel it for myself, now.

But, I digress! I don't know whether the better story is in 'losing the battle' or bringing the fish back to the dock, had that been the outcome. Your first book (I want more!) shows much about life, too. As you mentioned, perhaps the blue you had was the same one you hooked in 1994. If so, old friends met again!

Best regards,

Amigo Bill –

Bill Baker – BillonBay@aol.com

02/09/2005

Carlos: I just finished reading your book on the beach here in Cabo. Loved it. I too love to fish by myself and understand all that you left unsaid...I know exactly the Zen experience of being out there alone and the thrill of hearing the clip snap the drop back, and the strike. I too 'lost' a Daughter to a divorce and have told my Son, if he would only try fishing, he'd love it because "it's in his genes." He actually sent me a photo from Fla. ...he was holding up a small dorado....on the bottom he wrote .."Guess it's in my genes".

…When I return to the States, I'm going to order more books as gifts and will try to contact you for your autographs on them...

Thanks again for the read...

Norm “EASY” - easynorm@msn.com

02/06/2005

My wife's son bought your book; he mates on a charter out of OC, MD. He brought your book to Barbados and finished it, then left it to me for reading. Simply fascinating, courageous and inspiring. I learned a lot. Wonder if you'd personalize his copy if I mailed it to you with SASE? Thanks - a great write worth read for any sportfishing enthusiast.

J. DeMarco - rugby.dogs@verizon.net

01/31/2005

I live on Edisto Beach in SC, and I enjoy every second I get to spend on the water especially off shore fishing with my dad. I read you book last summer and really enjoyed it. I've shared it with friends who love to fish and others who never have, but would like to start. Thank you for an amazing book - I look forward to another one - from someone who loves to write and fish

Heather - heatherleahenderson@hotmail.com

11/18/2004

Mr. Bentos: I was wandering if I could bother you with some of your time with you in ocean city. I just read your book it was outstanding. I have just started offshore fishing and had a few question on marlin fishing I would love to hear your knowledge.

Thanks.

John Bohn – gocolts1fan@aol.com

11/06/2004

Great read. Thanks for the insight and the 'hints' your book provides. You truly seem to be a man who 'has it together' off shore and on. Life is short - Fish hard.

T F Brown – TBrown604@aol.com

10/18/2004

Carlos:

Great book, marvelous story. Please write another. Would love to have you sign my book. Please let me know if it is possible

Andy Press – Andrewprss@aol.com

08/19/2004

Don Carlos,

Your book is wonderful, thank you for your magic. I hope that we'll have another book soon.

Cecilia Umanzor – ccumanzor@heroldlaw.com

07/26/2004

Mr. Bentos -
I recently came across your book and was intrigued by it because of the Ocean City connection. My parents have a condo there & that's where I read and enjoyed your book earlier this month. We live in Pennsylvania but will be back in OC a few more times before Labor Day. I would love to have you sign the book for me, please let me know if you could!

Thanks so much!

Kelly Rohrbaugh – Trohrb1173@aol.com

07/12/2004
Carlos ... I want to thank you for your kind hospitality while visiting Green Turtle. Ruth and I thoroughly enjoyed spending the day with you ... both on land and on sea. We look forward to "the next time"! Warm Regards, Ed Phillips

Ed Phillips - epp@vwi.com

06/14/2004
Hi Carlos -

My Dad, Solon, began telling me about your solo Marlin fishing trips years ago so I was anxious to read your book. I just hadn't planned on having to wait while my (then) 17 year old son read it first!

We both thoroughly enjoyed it and only put it down long enough to attend to life functions like eating and sleeping. It brought back many memories for me of the days I had the privilege to "go offshore" with Bob Herder or John Swanson as a teenager. Since these trips were generally toward the end of the season, there would be many mornings of disappointment because of bad weather but also many thrilling hours on the flying bridge hunting for fish and just enjoying the sea.

We live many miles from Ocean City now but became vacationers there again in the last few years. Having heard so much about you from Dad, it would be a great honor to meet you when we are in town sometime.

Warmest regards,

Ken Kemon

Ken Kemon - kkemon@earthlink.net

06/10/2004
Hello Carlos,
I had the pleasure of meeting you in the Bahamas at Green Turtle with Bob Wolsey and enjoyed your company very much. I hope all is going well with you and that the Caribena is running well. I ordered your book on-line and am exited about reading it as soon as it arrives. Best of luck!

Jim Bokish - jdboke@comcast.net

05/13/2004
Mr. Bentos,
I have recently received your book as a gift from my father, Bob. I am currently reading the copy you signed while in the Bahamas and love your writing and opinions on fishing and conservation. My father and I plan on fishing the White Marlin Open this year and I hope to meet you while there, but I doubt that the large crowd would allow it. Thank you for the autograph and the vast experience you share in your book, I especially enjoy the occasional Spanish phrase as I am in my fifth year of learning the language. It would be a pleasure to meet and converse with you in Ocean City. Buen viaje y buena suerte.

Clay McManus - Clayboy32@comcast.net

05/05/2004
Carlos - I got your book as soon as I returned from Boat Harbour. I really enjoyed it and your writing style and now I am even more impressed with your boat. Thanks.

Steve Day - 4daysr@comcast.net

04/27/2004
Carlos: enjoyed your book during our Bahamas sailing trip. We trust you were enjoying the fishing at the same time. Regards, Tom, Nancy and Thel on Aja.

Tom Decker - tdecker@wamail.net

04/27/2004
Mr. Bentos, I just wanted to thank you for your book, you made the canyon trips come alive, page after page....I enjoyed it very much! In the end of your book you write you don't know how much longer you are going to be fishing, and I wanted to share with you a line from John Maxims book Time out of Mind...in it he writes "God does not deduct from ones life span the time one spends on boats". Happy fishing for a long, long time and thank you again for a very enjoyable book. George Korres

George Korres - ghomer8@aol.com

04/25/2004
Carlos good luck in the tournament you are fishing in the Bahamas time to get the OC whippin’ stick out and show them what you know.
Tim

Capt Tim and Family - Timbtuna@aol.com

04/18/2004
Carlos .......from a fellow solo angler ..just landed my first striped marlin , AND DID IT YOUR WAY .....SOLO !I have been hunting a bill fish solo for about three months ..our summer here in New Zealand .....finally nailed it last month ..119;8 kg stripey on a 37kg line..he took a skippy live bait ...boat was a 21 foot Ray glass .225 Merc outboard ......what a buzz .now Im hunting Broadbill and blues .....will let you know how i go ............The book was an insparation ....my girl reckons were both mad ....Would like to send a photo of the fish .whats the email address ..

John FRASER - aandj@xtra.co.nz

04/08/2004

I am an avid fisherman temporarily bound to land while I study at Florida State University. I was feeling homesick and extremely eager to get back on the water. I picked up "A Crew of One" and finished it by the next day. I actually felt at home on the water again. Im now even more excited to get back to my home in Jupiter, Fl. and back on the water again.

Thanks

Dan Bair – dpb03@fsu.edu

03/13/2004

It was a pleasure meeting you at the Atlantic City Outdoor show. Your book is absolutely riveting. I will send you a copy of mine later this year. Thanks again

Greg Zaczek – lowwtrtrip@aol.com

02/29/2004

Mi amigo! Call me or e-mail about the fishing at the green turtle club.

Tommy Hall - tommy@hardcoreoffshore.tv

02/21/2004

MR. BENTOS,

BACK IN CANADA, WEATHER IS COLD, IMPRESSIVE WEBSITE, READ BOOK REVIEWS, CAN'T WAIT TO READ IT.

SHERRI - SQUINN@PERTHPOLICE.CA

02/05/2004

Your website was given to me by Jack Barnes of the O.P. Anglers and we were wondering if you could speak at one of our Monthly Boat Club Wed Eve. Meetings, in May or the Fall. Hope to hear from You on behalf of 467 Members.

Joe Gallagher

Rear Commodore.

410-208 9507 – graysea16@aol.com

01/21/2004

Hello Carlos,
Hope all is well and you are coping with the cold winter we are experiencing. My daughter has to do a biography for school and just thought you would want to know that she has chosen you, she has extensively read your book again and searched you web page for ideas. I really thought that it was kinda neat that she was going to write about someone that my family has enjoyed the company of from time to time on docks at Sunset. Please feel free to add any additional information that you may think will be helpful to my señorita.

Thanks

The Hake Family

Tim Hake (Slip E18-Sunset) – Timbtuna@aol.com

12/26/2003

Carlos,

Just received your book on Christmas and it was finished by 6:00 that evening. The book had me so ready to fish afterward that I couldn't sleep that night. Luckily, I am heading to the Keys soon and will be able to take the excitement out on some sailfish. I caught my first Billfish last year around the same time and have never been the same since. Not only was the book exciting but very educational as I learned a few things which I surely can utilize in my young Billfishing career. I still am searching for my first white however limited due to the size of my boat which I run out of Indian River. I look forward to your next book and any other tips and techniques you have to offer.

John Trickey – jtrickey@ikon.com

11/30/2003

Your book, Crew of One, was a pleasure. It took three days to read, but only because of a two day power outage!

I have never seen the ocean nor smelled the salt air until I started to read your book. I still have the tan I acquired while out with you.

Most of my fishing is done through the ice in Northern Ontario: on inland lakes, with plenty of freshwater fish such as whitefish, trout, walleye, pike and bass. I have guided for years on small trolling boats and operated a fish hut rental business also in the winters. I do enjoy fishing alone as far from the crowds as possible. But with snowmobiles so plentiful now this is getting harder and harder to do. There is no better felling than to hook up with a big fish that you hand line to the hole and not see until it is within your grasp!

If you decide to tap out a second book, you know I will have the first copy available.

Tight lines and long life.

Keith.

Keith Sarasin – chaoticfisherman@hotmail.com

11/29/2003

Carlos,

My girlfriend got me your book "A Crew of One" for my birthday - it nearly ruined the day for her as once i started i couldn't put it down!! Thank you for a great book. I only wish it could have been longer.

I too am an avid fisherman, fishing from my own boat in Ireland, for fish generally smaller than your own targets though have had a few decent shark. I've tried blue water fishing in Cozumel and Cabo San Lucas, and to me even landing a 20lb Dorado was a team effort so i am in awe of your ability to find, hook, play, tag and release Marlin.

I can relate to you so much when you say how happy you are to be at sea, alone on a fishing boat - there truly is nowhere better.

Get writing part 2!!!

Wishing you calm winds and following seas, Tight lines.

Paul

Paul Bryson – paulbryson75@aol.com

11/17/2003

Bill Baker – BillonBay@aol.com

10/19/2003

Hello Amigo

Once again Carlos, you packed them in and did an excellent job in spell binding the membership.

You are always entertaining and very informative at the same time. I have had members who missed the meeting say they were sorry they did because they heard of the great show you put.

On behalf of the Ocean Pines Anglers a very large and sincere THANK YOU!!!

You know that you are always welcome at our meetings so please come visit us as your schedule permits.

With warm regards
Bill Haag
Ocean Pines Anglers Club - Carbil@ezy.net

10/12/2003

Hi Carlos,
I really enjoyed your dissertation and action video Saturday. We are serious about signing up for your deep sea fishing tutorials. Please inform us, so that we can arrange our schedules.

Best, Pete VanGiesen – vagiesen@aol.com

10/11/2003

It was a pleasure, at the Ocean Pines Anglers Club, to hear your commentary and personal adventures of fishing for the big ones off Ocean City, Md. We also all appreciate your conservation efforts when it comes to the billfish species. I enjoyed reading "Crew of One" as much for the insights on your philosophy of life as well the fascinating stories of Marlin fishing. The loss this year of an 800lb Blue Marlin at the boat after a 9 hour battle must lead to some interesting introspective contemplation which I will look forward to reading about in your new book.

Jack Barnes – barnes@mchsi.com

10/11/2003

Thanks for an excellent talk to the Ocean Pines Anglers club today.
Armand – ruby@intercom.net

09/08/2003

Carlos,
Thanks for signing my book a couple of weeks ago at the fish cleaning station at Sunset Marina. It was a real pleasure to meet you in person and talk a little about fishing. Can't wait for your next book !!!
Thanks again, Mike

Mike Turssline - mdt798@aol.com

09/08/2003
Loved the book

John - admin@aol.com

08/11/2003
Hello Carlos,

The White Marlin Open was buzzing about you fight with a Blue Marlin on Friday, August 8th. According to the captains of a few boats that weighed fish, you hooked the fish at about 9AM and were still working it at 6:30 PM. If it was indeed true, how did the battle end?

Bill Barker - BillonBay@aol.com

08/10/2003
I purchased A Crew of One just a few days ago at our local Borders. I've finished half of the book already and am amazed at your stories. I'm an avid fisherman who spends a few weeks each year fishing in Ocean City, MD. I saw your story in the Coastal Fisherman. Is there any way that you could sign my copy of A Crew of One?

Thank you,
Stan Witman

Stan Witman - twitman@localnet.com

07/25/2003
Carlos:

I have read and enjoyed many fishing books filled with all kinds of fishing adventures. Your book provided a new and unique fishing adventure from a different perspective. You also managed to bring the reader into your descriptive moments at sea. There were many times I felt like I was there. Thanks for sharing your story. It was a pleasure to read.

Good Fishing,

Michael Culm - mculm@mindspring.com

07/08/2003
Just a quick thank you for writing a great book.I was introduced to offshore fishing the other day(iam 38 years old).To say the least ive got a lot to learn .iam based off the Mozambique coast(Africa), have not yet caught a bill fish , however will keep you informed over the next few months as to my progress .....with the help of your book i hope to make a dream come true.
Thanks
Graham

graham williams - graham@pops.co.za

06/18/2003
Carlos,

My father is Maurice Belloni and I have very fond memories of fishing on your boat as a kid.I recently heard that you had written a book and would love to obtain an autographed copy. Any suggestions. I am looking forward to the read.

Rob

Roberto Belloni - rbelloni@cox.net; rob.belloni@marriott.com

05/11/2003
Hey Carlos!
The book was what it is, obviously amazing. I am a mate on the Surf's Edge at White Marlin Marina and i totally understood every concept you had to say about billfishing. I would inspire everybody i know to read the book. By fishing everyday in Ocean City, i could picture everything you said. I hope to hear back from you, and write another book.
Thanks,
Barron

Barron Pritt - Surf's Edge

05/04/2003
Hello Amigo--Picked up your book two days ago a Borders in Kona Hawaii. Just finished and thanks so much for sharing. I moved over here last fall and have a couple striped marlin but no blue as yet. This summer will work I'm sure. I don't envy you your three hour trip each way, here in Kona we start trolling immediately upon leaving the harbor. Thanks again Bill

Bill Tunnicliff - mbtunni@msn.com

03/11/2003
Carlos,
I just finished your book. What an inspiration!
How can I get my copy signed by the man himself?

Herman Rinaldi - hermanatr1@aol.com

02/28/2003
Carlos,
I fished with my brother Ralph on his boat the "Stalker" for quite a few years. I have seen you on many occasions. I enjoyed reading your book because it stirs up so many of my own wonderful memories. I look forward to seeing you again this season.
Best regards and good luck
Jim Beaty

Jim Beatty - orchem@aol.com

02/19/2003
Dear Mr. Bentos, I retired 3 years ago, moved to St. Simons, Island, GA, bought a 25 ft. Contender and fish alone in the Atlantic every chance I get and am normally alone. Friends and wife think I have lost it but my experiences on the ocean alone have been as exciting and as memorable as anything I have done. I really look forward to reading about your adventures. Ed Hawie

Ed Hawie - ehawie@darientel.net

02/18/2003
Where else can you fish for the marlin, pinned down under two-and-a-half feet of snow?

The imagination. And to go without, calls us to go within.

I thought the book was a solid contribution to a spread, which raised a marlin; in my mind.

I'll be around to pay respect to Fathoms Grille and of course Caribena...........Tight lines.

Matt Ciar pella - www.redbeard264@aol.com

02/18/2003
Amigo Carlos:

I read the book, naturally. What can I say? Barry said it all and much better than I could have, except that on occasion I was along for the ride which never failed to be an adventure. Gracias amigo.

I'm awaiting the next book.

Tom Maddox

Tom Maddox - tcat406@erols.com

01/30/2003
I love to fish, while reading about your adventures, I felt like I was there in the boat the whole time. thx

a fellow fisherman

Milan - milo@lmf.net

01/14/2003
Anyone that goes off-shore for billfish by himself has to be either "poco loco" or on a first name basis with the Almighty. You're living a dream for many of us!

Loved your book! The last line says it all "----man keeps fishing for more than fish."
Jim Downey

Jim Downey - canepolecharters@hotmail.com

01/13/2003
Carlos:
I enjoyed your book very much. As a marlin sports fisherman for 10 years in St. Thomas I
share your view about the beauty of these fish
and ALWAYS tag & release them. Your comments
about how the sea off-shore can be so peaceful
one minute and the next turn into raging high
seas, your respect for the sea, and your attention
to detail relative to your gear, boat, etc,. is good
advice to anyone who is just starting to fish off
shore. Again, thanks for a great read. Tight lines. P.S. Write another book.

Walter Seipel - billfish_29@msn.com

01/06/2003
Carlos, I just received your book," A Crew of One" and was unable to put it down.Anxious too go to Fathoms Grille in the spring when our new home at Isle of Wight is complete.
Great Job !

Edward G Dalkiewicz - edwdal@msn.com

01/03/2003
Don Carlos,

I received your book for Christmas and am eager to read it close to the fire during this cold winter. Please let me know if you will be doing any book-signings in the near future.

Saludos, hope this e-mail finds you well,

Carlos Silva

Carlos Silva (hijo de Ivan) - carlossi@iadb.org

01/02/2003
Hello Carlos-
Well I've finally read it. After walking past it a hundred times at Sunset Provisions and finally having it bought for me at your book signing in Bethany. I even managed to put it away until Christmas as it had been purchased as a gift for me. It amazes me that we have crossed paths for 20 years and had not shaken hands until this past November.
My children learned to swim in the pool at Harbour Island within sight of Caribena. We watched as Fathoms sprouted from the sand and ate there for the first of many times the week it opened.
As one who's fished the same waters for 40 years, all I can say is that I understand the calling. Most of my fishing has been solo as well. My means usually restrict my opportunities closer to shore but I have had three occasions to go to the canyons on my own in search of the fishes with the bills. Fate has limited me to tuna and mahi but someday, as you, I will prevail. Until then, I'll wave each time you pass me in the inlet and wish you good fortune. I'd been struggling for a name for my new center console for months. Your book has inspired a solution and you'll know me when you see me.
Now if I can just get you to bring back those $3.99 hamburgers with the straw onions on top .
The book is great, can't wait for the sequel.

Jim

Jim Bageant - jbageant@56kdialup.com

12/31/2002
Carlos,
Just finished your book while on vacation in Martha's Vineyard. Unfortunately no fish to be found this time of year, not that I didn’t try. I thoroughly enjoyed your book, as a fisherman from Ocean City, NJ I could relate to so many of the locations and situations. I also learned how much more I have to learn. My next goal is my first major fishing boat, and plan to take your example by being a mate on my own boat to learn from those with years more experience than myself. Thanks for sharing your experiences with us.

phil grohe - pg4409@mail.com

12/12/2002
Thinking more about a man who would LEAVE his dock without rudders to go fishing offshore, it make perfect sense! You often enjoy the journey without the imposition of an outcome!

Bill Barker - Fisherman's Luck - billonbay@aol.com

12/08/2002
Mr. Bentos,

I just finished your book this morning and felt compelled to write and let you know how much I enjoyed it. I have been fishing since I was very young, and have fond memories of my grandmother taking me and making great meals out of our catches. I now fish the Chesapeake regularly and made my first off-shore trip this past summer out of Wachapreague. We caught a Blue and White Marlin on that trip and I think I am now addicted! Thanks again for a great read. I wish you continued sucess and good luck in the canyons.

Mike Casem - mjmjcgitbac@aol.com

12/08/2002
Mr. Bentos,

Mike Casem - mjmjcgitbac@aol.com

11/23/2002
Carlos,
Received your book as a gift from my brother who said" Mike this sounds like you" I enjoyed it very much as I am a solo fresh water fisherman too, now turned salt water. Was fortunate enough to spend two overnight trips to Hudson canyon this past summer. Saw my first White Marlin in Aug. .. but you know how it is learning the hard way.
All the best to you in your future exploits, .. -Mike

Mike Smith - smith3107@rogers.com

11/20/2002
Before "A crew of one," there was one great book about fishing, and it was by Ernest Hemingway. Now, there are two. Carlos Bentos has the gift that all great, instinctive writers possess: He can make a complicated, emotional subject into a matter that is easily understood, even by a landlubber like me. Bentos is clearly not the adversary of the pelagic billfish he seeks to conquer; rather, he admires and respects them, which is why he returns them to their own world. Would that all fishermen could be as kindly toward the creatures of the sea. Bentos shows that the struggle between man and marlin is intellectual, physical, emotional and even a bit spiritual. "A Crew of One" is a tour de force and a page turner...a rare combination outside the world of the techno-thriller or mega-marketed mystery story. We all await Carlos' next venture...in literature as well as restaurants! Via con Dios, amigo!

Sherwood "Duke" Brooks - NewportBayRealty@aol.com

11/15/2002
Thoroughly enjoyed your book. I just finished telling my wife that is the first book I have ever read cover to cover. Congrats on the quest for "El Dentudo"...

Tight lines!

Bryan Wentworth - bryan@wentworth.net

11/04/2002
Your book was wonderful....a one night read. As a fisherman, on a much smaller and closer to shore scale, I admire your feelings for the sea. I wish you most heartfelt congratulations on " A Crew of One". I look forward to a sequel.

Walter R.Castellano - Walter_Castellano@ sonymusic.com

10/28/2002
Dear Carlos,

Loved the book. Strange as this may sound, I believe
that I know, and am friends with, the "Irish American"
you refer to on page 44. I don't not want to say his
name in case this is automatically placed on the web
page. If we know the same person, It will make for a fun
conversation. I will wait on a reply.

Al

Al - ceibalt@aol.com

10/27/2002
Dear Carlos:
Yesterday evening I visited my local Rehoboth book shop in search of another of Peter Mayle's delightful books about Provence, from whence I have only recently returned. I reached to the shelf for the Mayle volume. Then ... suddenly ... without any warning ... like a lit-up white marlin at a flat-line ... A Crew of One literally jumped off the same shelf and into my outstretched hand. As always, my first reaction was analytical: What is Carlos' book doing on the shelf next to the more-or-less collected works of Peter Mayle? Fishing ... and France's Rhone Valley are certainly unrelated by subject matter. There's no "Alphabetical by Author" relationship. One may be a "New Release," but the others are by now all trusted oldies. There is no "logic." And so it's fate, destiny, karma; call it what you will. It was one of those things that were just meant to happen. On that conclusion, I bought them both ... but Peter Mayle remains unread.
My reading began late yesterday evening and ended this afternoon with the resolution to quickly write this letter of both thanks and congratulations. First of all, I really admire anybody who can actually write a book ... any book ... much less get one published; so, from me at least, you get high marks just for the commitment to putting the words down on paper in an organized fashion. But a really good book ... now that's something else again. My very sincere congratulations on a job exceedingly well done. You must be (and should be) very proud indeed.
Here are some of the "high points" from my perspective:

First, I thought the way in which you integrated the chronicle of your personal triumph in the 1996 White Marlin Open with the book's larger themes (e.g., your own personal memoir, your enduring love affair with the sea and with "your" Caribena, the historical and ecological elements relating to the Atlantic marlin fishery generally, the joy of embracing what I like to call "aloneness" from time to time, etc.) was carried off very deftly indeed. The 1996 "story" is interesting but the other themes are (and should be) much more compelling. In the combination you achieved the "balance" that you talked of in the book.

Second, your tribute to your mother is wonderful ... truly wonderful. If there was any "debt" there, it is now surely paid.

Third ... and this was truly serendipitous ... your description of that moment when the billfish "comes up" ... behind the bait ... the strike ... the drop-back ... coming tight ... that 30/60 seconds of relative frenzy that follows the long, long hours of nada ... is right on the mark. I though this might end up as just another overblown "swashbuckling ... rip-roaring ... blood and guts" description; but not so. You really got this part right. Better yet, I am convinced that you have described in words that moment of intense excitement so that it is legible not only to those of us who have been blessed to experience it ... but also to those unfamiliar with life in the cockpit of a game fishing boat.

It was a pleasure to read. My thanks for some enjoyable hours. Stay well and, again, congratulations on some fine work. I'm off to begin Peter Mayle.

BARRY FITZPATRICK

Barry Fitzpatrick - Fitzpatrick@aol.com

10/22/2002
Carlos, I really enjoyed your book. I have never done any offshore fishing like you do.
Best of luck to you.

Pete

Peter Smith - psmith4@nycap.rr.com

10/17/2002
Dear Carlos,
I just finished reading your book and I loved it. I don't think I've ever read a book so fast.

I hope to see you in O.C.

Richard Dennison Jr. - richard.d.dennison@db.com

10/15/2002
Just finished your book. great! Thought I was strange wanting to be offshore alone. You put into perfect words my feelings. Thank You

michael smith - smithmk913@aol.com

10/04/2002
Dear Carlos, what a wonderful book,, my uncle, Fred Ames, introduced me to you at Fathoms Grille. we have been fortunate to have fished on the Yankee Babe with him several times. You were kind enough to interrupt your meal to welcome us.,, keep on fishing,, we hope to enjoy your wonderful restaurant again. tight lines, barb & jv

Barbara Rounds - pier2@earthlink.net

09/25/2002
Hi Carlos:
It was my pleasure to meet you at the Ocean Pines book signing recently, and to share your table. I wish you well with your book; it sounds very successful! I also, as promised, hope to visit your restaurant this fall, perhaps more than once. I just reviewed the Menus and they sound delicious.
Happy angling and may God bless you Carlos!

David Michael Smith
fellow author and friend
P.S.: Hope you enjoy "Stories From the Manger"; thanks for buying it! Peace, my friend.

David Michael Smith - davidandgeri@hotmail.com

09/18/2002
Captain Bentos,
I had the pleasure of meeting you during this years White Marlin tournament. I read your book in one day...it was great. It captured the feelings of the true fisherman at sea, with grace. Your descriptions were fantastic and moving for all that has ventured to the deep.

Thanks for the "fisherman to fisherman" friendship you noted in my book.
Did you ever get a chance to read "Ship Of Gold"
I gave to you?.....If so what did you think of that true ocean adventure?
God Bless
-garz@erols.com

Gary - garz@erols.com

09/17/2002
Carlos,
Your passion and love affair with solitude is fascinating. You are a true gentleman. Keep writing. This is truly your calling.
Regards,
Michele...your bartender

Michele - zozu2@aol.com

09/13/2002
Carlos,
Your book has put words to the feeling most of us have when clearing an Inlet in anticipation of the oceans' possibilities. Your love for the sea & kindness to share ideas & techniques are most appreciated.

Safe voyage!

Mike Henry - fansrfun@aol.com

09/01/2002
Dear Mr. Bentos,
Thank you for writing "A Crew of One". I understand the solitude you talk about. I have been deaf for 29 years and one of the last sounds I remember hearing was the sound of the ocean. I almost heard it again while reading your book this weekend.
God bless,
Maya

Maya - IndigoMaya@Lycos.com

08/29/2002
Finally, finally, finally I had a chance to read "A Crew of One". I took it with me on my last trip where I do most of my serious reading on airplanes.

Congratulations on the book which I thoroughly enjoyed reading. Thank you for sending a copy for the IGFA library.

Best wishes and good fishing.

Mike Leech - Mleech@igfa.org

08/24/2002
Please don't mistake my letter for one of criticism. I loved the book, thought it was beautifully written and enjoyed your experiences on the water. I wrote you out of sheer gratitude. I myself have a love of fishing as I have been fishing with my dad since I was 4 years old...

Donna - Donna70usa@netscape.net

08/20/2002
Mr. Bentos,
Thank you for such an incredible, eye-opening experience! The special man in my life is also an avid, solo, bluewater fisherman. He asked that I read this book so that I could relate to how he truly feels about his fishing. I was hoping to marry this man but after reading "A Crew of one" I now see that I will never be a priority over his fishing. Makes for a lot of lonely days. I would hope that in my husband's (or ex) book that spans 20+ years, I would be referred to more than 3 times. And not in a regretful fashion. Family is what life is all about. Looks like you missed the boat!

d - donna70usa@netscape.net

08/20/2002
Carlos,
can you inform me if there is a portuguese translation for you book, I would love it to give one to my husband.
Thank you

salome cruz - thmasluehr@mail.telepac.pt

08/15/2002
A friend at work told me about your book and provided me with your site address. I am told that the book is extremely well written so I look forward to reading it. Also hope to compare notes with my father's white marlin exploits in Ocean City. He too was an avid fisherman. Best wishes on your book!

Jon C. Ohman - johman@pop200@gsfc.nasa.gov

08/14/2002
Great Book!-I'll be looking forward to a short excerpt in Reader's Digest

Steve Elliott - Ben.JaneElliott@verizon.net

08/05/2002
Hi Carlos,

Can you tell me if there is any portuguese translation of your book underway at all?(or distribution deals in Portugal)

Thank you

Jason - pharoah121@hotmail.com

07/31/2002
Carlos, It was great talking with you Sat evening. Again thank you for signing my book. I started reading and did not put it down until I was finished. See you on the docks...........Fred

Fred ( Flatwater ) - fboland@starpower.net

07/29/2002
Carlos:
Enjoyed your book immensely especially Brad Watkins' advise to put wrench around shaft when your engine broke down. One fisherman looking out for another. Also the write-up of Chris Bowie's freak accident (sad memories). Did you make it to Norfolk on the leeward side of the freighter when you experienced a terrible storm? All around a GREAT BOOK.

Edna Hodgens - Bass21842@excite.com

07/23/2002
Dear Carlos,

After talking with you about the Local Author Book Signing on September 21st at the Ocean Pines Library from 1-4 P.M. I am thrilled you will be one of the participants. I know readers will love having a chance to meet you in person.

I toured around your site reading articles and looking at pictures. Your site is excellent. I printed out a ton of stuff that my hubby is reading right now.

Suzanne Coleburn
Book Signing Chairman, Friends of the Ocean Pines Library, Ocean Pines, MD.

Suzanne Coleburn - scoleburn@msn.com

07/21/2002
Great book!!
Me and my "WEIS GUY" have just started in the offshore game.
After reading your book I can't wait for that first marlin.

Matt - budderkat@aol.com

07/05/2002
Carlos,
Your writing has flooded my memory with beautiful sunrises, starry nights and spectacular marlin.
We are so lucky to work in what I consider God's true cathedral.

Bob Vlcek

Bob Vlcek - cmvlcek@aol.com

07/01/2002
Reading this very delicious morsel of a book, I found myself engaged on several levels by this fascinating author. As many questions were generated as were answered...

Having come from generations of men who went down to the sea in small ships, I hear their voices in Mr. Bentos' writings.... and understand.

Warmly,
Sarah Showell

Sarah Showell - sarahshowell26@Yahoo.com

06/26/2002
Carlos,
I recently picked up your book and finished it in a few days. I felt like I was along with you on your fishing adventures. Having fished inshore for 23 years I recently starting fishing offshore. My dream is to land a big Blue Marlin and someday I will.

Thanks

Mike - flyerfan_10@yahoo.com

06/23/2002
Mr. Bentos, I recently was given your book to read by my brother...a Prod. Mgr. for Penguin-Putnam. I just finished the book and have thoroughly enjoyed it and really admire you.
While I guide anglers in the Chesapeake and NC and have had little experience in offshore fishing, I loved the book and the way that you're able to place your readers right in the cockpit with you. It is a book I will highly recommend.

Capt. Matt Tawes - capttawes@aol.com

05/30/2002
Carlos i picked up your book on Sunday and finished Sunday at home it was wonderful - and by the way, the crew from e- dock ate at Fathoms Saturday night and it was just as wonderful as the book. Take care and see you offshore.

p.s. did you catch the whitey yet?

Tim - timbtuna@aol

05/28/2002
I picked up a copy of your book on Sunday morning and finished it that same afternoon! Your story touched close to my dream and my heart. With a wife, four teenage daughters, and, of course, a job, it may only be a distant dream, but your book brought it closer. Thanks for sharing your experiences and keeping my hopes alive! Enjoy your summer! I hope to see you on the water some day!

Joe Krug - jkrug1@comcast.net

05/28/2002
Carlos - congratulations on the book! can't wait to read it. We fish out of Sunset on the 30' Grady Center Console "Miss Alex". We also own and operate the sea surface temp. web site SST Online - www.sstol.com. If you are interested in a complimentary subscription, just send me an email.
See you at Fathoms and look forward to talking to you offshore. Have a great season and best of luck on the book.

Mike

Mike - mike@sstol.com

05/10/2002
congratulations on your book. you are a true gentleman and a great fisherman.

brian -your neighbor (seafood) - brianjbarnard@yahoo.com

05/02/2002
Purchased the book at the Reef Foundation Fundraiser At Hall's Rest on 5/01/02. in Ocean City. Carlos is” a class act”. This book is a winner. Makes for great passionate reading. I could not put it down. A great addition for the true fisherman.

Tony Devereaux - Tony21811@aol.com

05/01/2002
Just ordered your book, can't wait to read it ! Happy Publishing Day Carlos. Congratulations!!

"Hammer" and Gussie - gussiehill@hotmail.com

04/18/2002
Great looking site about a great man. Good luck with your book sales Carlos. Can't wait till the book is available.

Dotti Mumbauer - ocstealth@prodigy.net

04/15/2002

Carlos, it looks great!

paul - marlin@dmv.com

04/10/2002
looks great