by Bryant Franklin
Hello Southeast Virginia and OBX! I’m Bryant Franklin and have been asked to write about Kayak Fishing for Coastal Angler Magazine. A little background: I’ve been fishing since I was a little boy chasing bluegill with a cane pole. I was lucky enough to have a father to introduce me to the outdoors at a very young age. I bought my first kayak 4 summers ago and have been hooked ever since. There’s nothing like the stealth and simplicity of fishing from a kayak. I quickly took to it and have fished the tournament scene but just really like to just sit and relax and fish by myself. It really is a stress reliever; kayak fishing gives you time to think and really gets you in touch with God’s country and all the wonderful creations. I quickly started targeting largemouth bass as that’s what I have grown up fishing. There is nothing like throwing a rubber worm and just twitching it that right way for the explosive response at the other end of your line!
In 2016 I got my Virginia State Master Angler award, then targeted the large blue catfish population we have in the James and Chickahominy rivers. Again in 2017, the great state of Virgina sent me the Expert Angler award. I was approached by Vibe Kayaks last year and asked to join their Pro Staff. My friends at Oaktree Outfitters in Gloucester put me in a brand new Seaghost 130 kayak, and off I went. The best part of kayak fishing is the many great people I have met over the last few years. Learning the art (yes, art!) has also been a highlight. I say this only because I have learned so much, and I continue to learn today. Most important I would like to thank everyone who has supported me. This is a passion for me and to have a girlfriend that supports you is priceless. I have been lucky enough to find that special someone. If you’re looking for a peaceful yet exciting hobby and sport, you owe it to yourself to get out in a kayak and try kayak fishing. You won’t regret it. Look for this column each month in Coastal Angler—see you next month, and happy fishing!