Omiak might have been addressing beginners primarily (or maybe not), and trying to help them by sharing this sort of approach or possibility. And maybe he (/she) was feeling a bit celebratory about this trip, and sharing a gamble or adventure that worked out.

Other approaches can work well too though (some of them have been mentioned in this thread), and have advantages of their own. Maybe that is why some are taking exception (or part of why) -- it can seem as if the OP is saying that this way is the way, or the best way, or the better way, when it is really one way among others.

Any way, cheers to you Omiak and all. And Happy Saint Patrick's Day.