Spotted in Princess B's TB Party. Thanks for sharing.
Here's a little story similar to your Father-in-Law's.
My brother, Dad, and I go on an annual weekend fishing trip to Waitts Lake N-NE of Spokane, WA. My Dad tends to lose something each year too. Two years ago, he accidentally donated his rod and reel to the lake. Last year, he wasn't pleased with the bite, or should I say the lack thereof, so he took it upon himself to intentionally donate a his current trolling lure to the waters. I think half of the fun is the entertainment that the old man brings to the table. I don't know if my elbow hurts more from casting or my abs from laughing after a weekend of fishing with the guy. Good stuff.