Fish Stories are A Part of Who WE Are: 14+ Years in Outdoor Media

I have been an outdoor writer for almost 14 years. Not to sound overly dramatic, but this was the specific issue of Michigan's Hooks & Bullets Magazine changed my life. How? Well, there is a story... (Long post, but worth it for those who have a taste for fishing media)

It started one day when a letter came in the mail. Johnathan Rand mailed me this copy of Magazine, along with a letter sharing how I could venture further into writing fishing content. We had known each other for a few years at this point, after attending and working at his creative writing camp in northern Michigan. Prior to this, I had some work published in 2011-12 on old websites, such as BigBassBros and RapalaNation, along with frequent posts in web forums, like Bass Boat Central, Great Lakes Bass, and Walleye Central.

"It doesn't hurt to send an email. See if he will give you a shot. Offer the first article or two for free- like a trial." That editor was Kevin Speer. He gave me a chance to prove myself. Not long after, things were in full motion and I became a staff writer.

I knew things were happening, but I was not expecting what was to come. There were a few writers who mentored me when I was just starting out. After a little time, I met Bill Parker, the editor of Michigan Outdoor News. Writing content in line with journalism was a skill to learn, but it allowed me to think more technically with structuring and being resourceful. Jeff Nedwick taught me about developing professionally through meaningful connections and hard work. As for David A. Rose, he shared with me some of the most important things to consider, in text and in life. Mark Martin was the first professional angler I spent time with, where he demonstrated using observation as storytelling through experience.

I could go on for ages. There have been so many great people in outdoor media I have crossed paths with. I am always grateful for every single one of you.

Looking back, I have been so fortunate for all of the opportunities and adventures. One could say that it was once a dream, but to be honest- so much of it was not even imaginable to me. Working with some of the biggest names and organizations in fishing, doing legit photo shoots with bait companies, helping with events, hosting seminars, riding in new boats, seeing prototypes take motion- it genuinely makes me feel awestruck.

People have been sharing fish stories for thousands of years. Foresight Fishing is my passion project where I see myself as carrying a torch, like so many greats before me keeping the tradition strong.

I feel that I will always be riding the waves cast from that initial stone throw of an email long ago. Drop the trolling motor and get your favorite pen, because we're still just getting started...