The way I see it, there are serious problems with going on a Facebook page to ask for advice. It could be a useful tool, if everyone played nice. It could be a useful tool, if everyone followed a few rules.

Here are the points I want to make in list form:

  1. Don't ask for advice about things that require an expert's input. You don't know the people on Facebook who are answering. You have no way of evaluating their advice.
  2. Understand that you will get a bunch of opposing opinions that will make it a crap shoot when you try to pick a good one.
  3. Before you spout your own answer or opinion, make sure you have read all the comments. If your answer is already there, just like it. We don't need a string of 237 replies all saying "buy it at Walmart".
  4. Make sure you proofread any advice you give. Did you write what you really wanted to say? Will your typo harm the person who implements your suggestion?
  5. If you don't know an answer, don't bother commenting.
  6. If you are a "know-it-all", be thankful for your skills. However, there is no need to be condescending or put down those who don't have your vast knowledge.
  7. Do a little research and make sure that your answer is correct and not just something you heard and believed without checking.

Here is an example of what I am talking about using the much asked question, "Do I need a license to fish in Texas state parks?". I will only put 9 comments. But in reality, these often go into the hundreds.

  1. No. You can fish without one anywhere in Texas. (I am sure the person meant to say "at any state park in Texas". But, he didn't. Also, there are cases where you do need a license in a state park, which will come up later.)
  2. You have to buy one to support the state. (This is someone's opinion. Yes, your purchase will support the state. However, in this situation, it does not answer the question and may confuse the issue.)
  3. No. (repetitive)
  4. Pretty sure you don't. (Doesn't really answer the question.)
  5. Not unless you are fishing from a boat. (This is partially true. You can fish from a boat in Texas state parks without a license, as long as the entire body of water is within the park borders. Therefore, this comment could confuse.)
  6. The fishing sucks at most parks. (This is an opinion. It is not an answer to the question. There are MANY anglers who would disagree.)
  7. Look on the website. All the info is there. Click here. (Best answer of all.)
  8. Yes, but it is catch and release. (Totally wrong.)
  9. You shouldn't be fishing, if you don't know the rules. (Hmmm. Not helpful.)

After reading all of those comments, the original asker of the question can't possible have an answer of any value unless he or she follows the advice of number seven.

So, the way I see it, asking for advice on Facebook is pretty useless. Just go to a reputable source of information for your question. You will be much happier.