Great report, great going!
Josh sure does a good job putting his clients on the fish out there.
No doubt that hiring a guide can shorten up the learning curve.
It's great to hear that you've been able to keep scoring on your own - you are either a fast learner, or you have plenty of time to spend out there
Do keep in mind - while a lot of principles stays the same, the things do change. From my experience, every year seems to be somewhat different story. What gives guides the advantage is the time they spend on the water. They are more likely to be keyed on whatever is going on (or not going on) at any given time of the year.
There's something to be said about figuring it all out on your own...
And nothing beats time on the water, for lucky folks that can afford it.