by Vicki Fisher
As ‘First Mate’ and co-owner of our fishing charter business I have had many opportunities to enjoy both the art, and fun, of fishing aboard our vessel. Years ago when my children were small I would spend hours along the shoreline at Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri helping them catch the small blue gill that were available giving them hours of enjoyment and allowing me the opportunity to spend quality time and making memories that will last a lifetime!
After moving to Florida and my love for the water I purchased a pair of waders and my first official rod/reel and headed out to the shoreline to see what was available. Little did I realize the large variety of species that I would encounter so close to shore. My first afternoon working the moving tide I caught many sea trout as well as a redfish! Needless to say, I was once again ‘hooked on fishing’. With little knowledge of what would work and not work, I went on a shopping trip to my local tackle shop and bought myself a few lures, a pair of pliers with a line cutting tool on the side, a floating shrimp bucket and some 30lb. test fluorocarbon line. I was ready for my next day at the beach! My next adventure was just as productive and adding ladyfish and flounder to my list of species caught.
Ten years later, I hold the family record for size of many species caught! I love spending time with my husband aboard our vessel fishing and enjoying the beautiful waters here in SW Florida. As a full time, professional fishing guide, he knows where to put me on the fish and I love the excitement of reeling them in! I love an adventure and each day on the water exploring the backcountry of Pine Island Sound is exciting. One never knows what you may catch when your presentation is ‘spot on’. A day on or by the water is relaxing, rejuvenating, and full of adventure! Ladies… let’s go fishing!