Angler:
Don “Danglin” Anglin

Status:
Local Team – California Canoe & Kayak

Home Water(s)

When Don “Danglin” Anglin is not working as a Firefighter/Paramedic with City of Sacramento Fire Department, you can find him on his Outback all over Northern California chasing stripers, sturgeon, rockfish, halibut, and bass: whatever swims, as long as it’s not closed to fishing (welcome to California).  He always wanted a more challenging platform to chase his quarry and when Kayak Fishing presented itself, he promptly broke his shoulder fighting a fire.  He discovered the Hobie Mirage Drive while recuperating from shoulder surgery, and as he says, “My life has never been the same…”

Danglin has a small armada of Hobie fishing kayaks and likes to take people out and show them a great time. His passion now is spending time fishing with his 11 year-old twin boys who have scored some nice trophies themselves from their own tricked-out Hobie Sports kayaks.

Future plans are to retire from the fire department in one piece and takeover/open a resort with a main emphasis towards Kayak Fishing. Being an excellent cook and great guitar player, the day would include Kayak Fishing, a great dinner the night of your catch, and a serenade through the evening hours.

Good luck Danglin, and keep up the good work!

Accomplishments:

• 1st Place - 2006 Shark Fishing Tournament
• 2nd Place - Tyee Surfing Contest, Moutcha Bay, British Columbia
• 2nd Place -  Elk 2007

Angler:
            Thomas “HobieTom” Buckalew
Status:
            Local Team – OEX Oceanside

Home Water(s)
North County San Diego

Experience:
The whiplash you’d feel from being slammed into by a semi at 60 mph is nothing compared to what the local bass experience when Thomas throws down the hammer and rares back to set the hook. This man is a fishing “machine”, and when armed with an arsenal of Hobie Mirage Outbacks, there’s no stopping him.  Like many of his local compadres, Thomas is a bass fishing fanatic!  From Calicos to Spots and Sand Bass to Largemouth, Thomas is armed with the knowledge and tools necessary to get the job done.  A threat on the tournament trail? You’d better believe it!  HobieTom continues to pedal his way straight to the top.

Accomplishments:

• 17th Overall – 2007 Plastic Navy Tournament Trail
• 6th – 2007 Plastic Navy Tournament Trail (Mission Bay)
• 7th Overall– 2006 Blue Ocean Kayaks Tournament Trail 
• 2nd – 2006 Blue Ocean Kayak Tournament (La Jolla)
• 3rd – 2006 Dana Point Kayak Tournament
• 3rd Overall – 2005 Plastic Navy Tournament Trail
• Jackpot – 2005 Plastic Navy Tournament Trail (La Jolla)
• 2nd – Southwind Kayak Tournament
• 1st – 2004 Fastlane Sailing Center Kayak Tournament

Angler:
Drew Clark

Home Water(s):
Coastal Southern California

Status:
Local Team - OEX Oceanside

Experience:
A willingness to share information and grow the sport of kayak fishing prompted Drew to form Plastic Navy, one of Southern California's premiere inshore fishing sites. Having played host to over 600 kayak anglers in 20+ large tournaments, Drew has worked hard to create a fun and friendly atmosphere for new kayak anglers.  When he's not organizing the Plastic Navy Tournament Trail, Drew can be found pursuing saltwater bass off the coast of California.

Accomplishments:

• Co-Founder – Plastic Navy Kayak Fishing
• 1st Place – 2007 San Diego Saltwater Showdown
• 1st Place - 2005 Newport Bay Bass Shootout
• 3rd Place – 2005 Kayak Sport Fishing Tournament

Angler:
Nathan “Steamroll” Clookie

Status:
Local Team - OEX Oceanside

Home Water(s)
North County San Diego

Experience:
Nathan “Steamroll” Clookie has been fishing Southern California for years and knows the local waters better than most of the old salts at your local tackle shop.  If you’re looking to pick someone’s brain about the local waters in and around San Diego, Nathan’s your man.  If Nate’s not out on the water whacking bass, you’ll most likely find him hooking up local anglers at OEX Oceanside in North County. Nathan’s also a huge threat to be reckoned with on the tournament trail. In fact, if you notice his name on the sign-up roster, you may want to think twice before signing up yourself.  This angler’s on a mission!

Accomplishments:

• 14th - 2007 Plastic Navy Tournament Trail
• 2nd -  2007 Kayak Fishing Classic 5
• 3rd - 2007 West Coast Whoppers Tournament
• 17th -  2007 San Diego Angler’s Open Bay Bass Tournament
• 10th - 2006 Plastic Navy Tournament Trail
• Jackpot - 2006 Plastic Navy Cabrillo Tournament
• Jackpot - 2007 San Diego Saltwater Showdown
• 3rd & Jackpot 2005 Kayak Fishing Classic 4
• 11th – 2005 Plastic Navy Tournament Trail
• 7th 2005 Steve Moyer Memorial Kayak Tournament
• Jackpot – 2005 Plastic Navy Tournament Mission Beach

Angler:
Gilbert “The Rockit” Hernandez

Status:
Local Team – Dana Point Jet Ski

Home Water(s)
Hesperia, California

Experience:
Gilbert “The Rockit” Hernandez has been fishing his entire life.  From lakes to bays to open water, this team captain is an all-around angler.  A float-tuber-turned-kayak-fisherman, Gilbert started fishing at the age of 10 and has been hooked ever since.  This sponsored angler’s main focus has swung to the bays on The Plastic Navy trail, giving his fellow anglers a run for their money.  Drawing on his freshwater experience, Gilbert has been perfecting his technique in California’s bays and harbors.  From Calicos to Sand Bass to Spotties, he’s determined to dominate the sport. 

Accomplishments:

• 1st – Plastic Navy Trout Experience 2008
• 6th Overall – Plastic Navy Tournament Series 2008
• 5th – Plastic Navy Mission Bay 2009
• 5th – Plastic Navy Huntington Harbor 2009

Angler: 
Jared Lane

Status:
Local Team – Fastlane

Home Water(s): 
San Diego, CA

Experience:
Jared Lane, a San Diego native, is both a skilled surfer and kayak fisherman.  Jared has had the chance to fish everywhere from Mexico to Fiji, catching monster Yellowtail, huge Rock Fish, “mondo” Halibut, and aggressive Tuna.  His love for the water started at a very young age and has since grown into a tremendous passion and excitement that continually drives him to catching trophy game.  You’ll find Jared at San Diego’s own Fastlane Sailing Center, installing and rigging some of the sweetest fishing kayaks on the water.

Angler:
Larry “Blackcloud 9” Laumann

Status:
Local Team – Fastlane

Home Water(s)
San Diego

Experience:
Larry Laumann is “The La Jolla Legend”.  With one of the biggest (51 lbs.) Yellowtail ever caught from a kayak, Larry has proven himself time and time again to be one of the best big game kayak fisherman to date.  Larry, or “Blackcloud 9”, as he’s commonly referred to, has dedicated the majority of his angling career to a search-and-destroy mission, wreaking havoc in the waters off the coast of Southern California.  Wicked weather and enormous surf are simply icing on the cake for Laumann as he fishes nearly every day of the year in search of monster pelagics that cruise the deep, rich upwellings of the La Jolla Canyon. 

Accomplishments:

• World Recordholder – 51 lb. Yellowtail from a kayak
• 1st - Steve Moyer Tournament 2007
  
  
  

Angler:
Allen "Otobepelagic" Leepin  

Status:
Local Team – Wind Toys

Home Waters:
Northern California

Experience:
Allen, a Northern California native who has spent his whole life in and around the water was introduced to the outdoors by his father who taught him how to dive, fish and hunt at a very young age. He started fishing from a "diveboard" in the early eighties and other than a few like minded friends, he could have never imagined the evolution of what we all call kayak fishing today.

Some of his favorite fishing holes include; the ocean and the major rivers that feed into it through out Northern California.  Allen contributes NCKA.org for leading his success as an angler over the past several years since he began kayak fishing.  The Nothern California Kayak Association has introduced him to a wide variety of species that he would have otherwise never had targeted such as striper, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striper, trout, halibut and sturgeon.

Angler:
Patrick “Holy Toledo" Leepin

Status:
Local Team – Wind Toys

Home Waters:
Northern California

Experience:
Lucky to have come from a family of great fishermen and outdoorsmen, Patrick spent his youth tagging along and absorbing all he could. Living up and down the coast of California his entire life, he has never been without a new species to challenge.

Some of Patrick's favorite haunts include the coastal rivers chasing steelhead and Chinook, the San Francisco bay battling white sturgeon and flatties, and the rocky coast searching for lings and reds.

Taking full advantage of the diversity of Northern California waters Patrick is a participant in NCKA's Angler of the Year tournament, and has proven himself as one very tough competitor.

Accomplishments:

• 2009 NCKA Angler of the Year - Runner up
• 2009 NCKA AOTY - Largest Steelhead (tie)
• 2009 NCKA AOTY - Largest Smallmouth Bass

Angler:
Joe Petralia

Home water(s):
Southern California

Status:
Local Team – Dana Point Jet Ski

Experience:
Joe has been mountain biking and backpacking in the Sierra Nevada Mountains to fish for trout for years.   One day a friend of his invited him to go kayak fishing out a Hobie for the first time several years ago, and  from that day I was totally hooked.  Immediately Joe recognized that the combination of fishing and peddling was the best of both sports.    

Accomplishments:

Angler:
Paul Willerton

Status:
Local Team - Gear Peddler

Home Water(s):
Oregon Coast

Experience:
Paul is a very accomplished outdoor writer and an esteemed fly fisherman.  He specifically targets trout, salmon, and steelhead in and around his home town of Bend, OR.  However, Paul’s knowledge doesn’t stop there!  He frequently visits destinations that most of us only dream of.   He travels the country and regularly vacations in exotic locations, all in anticipation of finding that next rising fish. For the times when Paul is home you can find him conducting kayak fishing seminars at select locations in the Pacific Northwest.

Angler:
           Andy “BigDerel” Wright

Status:
           Local Team - OEX Oceanside

Home Water(s):
            San Diego/Southern California

Experience:
As an avid kayak angler, you'll typically find Andy pursuing inshore saltwater bass in the local kelp beds and bays, honing his skills with artificial lures.  He also competes actively in tournaments, focusing primarily on the Plastic Navy/Western Outdoor News Tournament Trail as well as various other events.  In addition to the local scene you may find Andy exploring the Channel Islands, Mexico and beyond, searching for a new adventure and/or new personal-best bass. 

Angler:
            Eric “Kayak Fisherman” Albert

Status:
 Local Team – Captain Kayak

Home Water(s):
Eastern Long Island, NY

Experience:
Eric Albert has been plying the waters in and around New York for nearly 40 years. As an offshore commercial and sport fisherman, Eric has amassed a wealth of knowledge regarding the varied species of game fish that populate the region. As a third generation fisherman, his pedigree became apparent when he began winning awards and catching trophy bass and bluefish at the age of six. He’s never looked back since. His knowledge of the inland streams, bays, and rivers of eastern Long Island is unsurpassed. 
    
Eric is an expert freshwater and saltwater angler, equally adept in streams and surf. After making the transition to kayak fishing in 1999, he quickly established himself as one of the premier kayak fishermen on Long Island. He is one of the only New York State DEC licensed kayak fishing guides in the region, sharing his knowledge as a kayak-fishing and eco-tour guide for Captain Kayak in Quogue, NY.

Angler: 
Mark Attardo

Status:
Local Team - Alden of Sunapee

Home Water(s):
Central New Hampshire

Experience:
Growing up on the coast of Massachusetts, Mark has been drawn to the water for as long as he can remember. Learning how to fish was a natural progression. Eventually, he was introduced to kayaking and just paddled to explore and for relaxation. As with others, being on the water without a rod didn't last too long. 

Mark has participated in east coast tournaments as far south as Florida; meeting like minded individuals and experiencing new areas that have captivated his enthusasim for the love of kayak fishing.

As Marks skills developed and his kayak fishing experience matured it became evident to Mark that there was a lack of online information for kayak fishing in the New England area. This led Mark to co-found newenglandkayakfishing.com back in 2005, and today he the site is stronger than ever with well over 2500 members!

Accomplishments:

• Co-founder and president New England Kayak Fishing 
• 1st place overall / 1st place Fly 2007 Pawtuckaway Lake Kayak Bass Fishing Tournament
  
  
  

Status:
Local Team - Sterling Harbor

Home Water(s):
Southern New Jersey

Experience:
Justin Fesler grew up in the Park City area of Utah. From a young age, he loved outdoor activities including skiing, snowboarding, hiking and rock climbing. He especially enjoyed fishing the local streams and lakes of the Uinta and Rocky Mountains, targeting trout.

In 1997, Justin moved to southern New Jersey, where he quickly acclimated to salt water sports. The "locals" taught him to surf, which he picked up rather quickly, drawing from the skills he acquired during his days on the snowy mountains. But he found that the challenge of salt water fishing was really what he enjoyed most. Justin purchased a boat and honed his ocean and back bay fishing skills each summer. A few years later, he took to surf fishing, which quickly became one of his favorite past times.

Each spring and fall, Justin can be found most days knee deep in the surf gathering bait, or speeding down the beach in his Toyota, chasing diving birds to lead him to the catch of the day. Justin has also participated in many surf fishing tournaments, placing numerous times. However, when Justin was introduced to kayak fishing by George and Kathy Algard from Sterling Harbor Bait & Tackle in Wildwood, NJ he knew he had found his calling. Now Justin enjoys the thrill of the up close and personal experience kayak fishing gives him, both on the water and when fighting a fish. In 2008, Justin started competing in kayak fishing tournaments, and won the 1st ever kayak division of the highly prestigious Duke of Fluke Fishing Tournament. Justin enjoys introducing others to the sport by assisting with Hobie demos at Sterling Harbor's tackle shop, showing the local anglers just how much fun can be had from kayak fishing.

Angler:
Roger "NH Explorer" Gossett

Status: 
Local Team - Alden of Sunapee

Home Water(s): 
Central New Hampshire

Experience:
Roger has been fishing since he was old enough to wrap his little fingers around his first fishing rod. Growing up in Southern California, he went through the natural transition of fishing piers and back bays while vacationing with his parents, to fishing from private boats and large sport fishing fleets.  Working the deck for a year on long-range boats out of San Diego is a fishing highlight he will never forget. He also enjoyed freshwater fishing whenever he had the chance. When he moved to New Hampshire in 2002, he and his wife bought kayaks to explore the many area lakes. Roger soon felt lost on the water without a fishing rod...and so began his kayak fishing endeavor. Today he enjoys fishing the many lakes and streams of central New Hampshire. He gets his saltwater fix fishing the coast of New England as far south as Manhattan, adapting his existing skills while learning new techniques from the kayak fishing community.  Last year he started fly fishing as another means to satisfy his angling fix.  Roger enters tournaments for the camaraderie, education and, of course, the excitement of knowing that one day his time on the water will pay off when he tops the leader board.

Accomplishments:

• NEKF – Moderator & Secretary

Angler:
Mike Jediny

Home Water(s):
Mid Atlantic

Status:
Local Team – KFS

Experience:
I started fishing and hunting at age 4.  With my father we fished freshwater and hunted from Canada to Florida.  The love of the outdoors and the respect for the resource are part of my DNA.

I always had an eye for the salt as well as my freshwater and hunting roots.  My father had no interest in saltwater angling.  After he passed away, I could not longer ignore the call of the ocean and I started party boat fishing.  Like many others the salt quickly addicted me.  I now spend a majority of my time hunting and saltwater kayak fishing.
Hard work and constant fishing has paid off with consistent catching of apex species.  Also my roots of over 40 years in freshwater and hunting quarry give me a unique perspective and freedom to try new horizons.

After two decades of party boat fishing, with tangles, expense and no fish, I decided there had to be a better way.  In 2006 I bought my first kayak, a Hobie Adventure, and fishing went from an obsession to a way of life.

When I began kayak fishing my initial focus was to target fluke, I was soon to discover the passion of striped bass fever; fluking were put on hold for well over a year! Breaking away from trophy fish to target fluke was a VERY difficult thing to do, but a necessary step in the evolution of kayak fishing. Once I broke out of a powerboat fisherman mentality and reevaluated the physics of the kayak game I became a hunter, a pursuer, in charge of my own plan.  The quiet stealthy yak life got very interesting; we "evolve" by becoming "involved" in this sport.

What intrigues me about kayak fishing is the ability to be on the ground floor and shaping the future of the sport.  I became interested in pushing the boundaries in approaches to rigging and targeting fish.  My hunting roots were a strong connection that taught me to pursue with purpose and not cast blindly.

Now my schedule has blessed me with an opportunity to continue what my father started and begin teaching and guiding a new generation of hunters and anglers.  Salt or fresh, expertise in fishing what I can offer, I can teach you to tap into the primitive and become your own captain.

Angler:
Alberto “Crazy” Knie

Status:
 Local Team – Captain Kayak

Home Water(s):
Eastern Long Island, NY

Experience:

Angler:
            Steve McDonald
Status:
            Local Team – Captain Kayak

Home Water(s):
Long Island Coast & the Lower Hudson Valley

Experience:
Steve is a New York State licensed Fishing Guide and has spent decades fishing local waters.  Since his first kayak fishing experience in 2004 he has landed more than 20 species of salt and freshwater fish, including many with his fly rod. He has lectured on kayak fishing and presented on-the-water demonstrations on kayak safety. As of April 2008 Steve took the reins as President of North Atlantic Canoe and Kayak. Steve is also a member of the American Canoe Association (ACA) and the Kayak Fishing Association of New York.

Accomplishments:
Steve has completed SOLO Wilderness First Aid, ACA Trip Leader and ACA Level 4 Rough Water Kayak Training. While he has received numerous awards and recognition in local competition for striped bass, bluefish and weakfish, his real goal is to get people to spend more time on the water thinking about the resource and the environment as a whole. 

Angler:
Chris “Fish Whisperer” Parson

Status:
Local Team - Sterling Harbor

Home Water(s):
Southern New Jersey

Experience:
Growing up on the southern New Jersey coast, Chris has been an avid angler all his life. By the age of 15, Chris was supplying local bait shops with fresh and live bait and he continues to do so today. His time on the water and his knowledge of bait and feeding patterns has paid of in competition and has earned him the nickname “Fish Whisperer” among the local surf and jetty anglers. Chris was introduced to kayak fishing when his local dealer offered to show him how to put a hurting on resident back bay Striped Bass from a kayak. From that day he was hooked. These days, along sod banks, jetties and the open ocean from Stone Harbor to Cape May, you’ll find Chris stalking Striped Bass, Weakfish, Flounder and Bluefish from his Hobie Outback he named “My Island”. Chris eagerly introduces other to the sport and assists his local dealer in clinics and demo’s. His favorite is the State of New Jersey, BOW program which offers women the opportunity to learn new outdoor skills and enhance their appreciation of the outdoors. Chris has always enjoyed the spirit of competition, but has found a unique camaraderie among kayak tournament anglers, so watch for him on the kayak tournament fishing scene.

Accomplishments:

• 4th Place – 2008 JCAA Fluke Tournament – Cape May, NJ Division
• 3rd Place – 2008 Elks Tournament – Kayak Division – Point Pleasant, NJ

Angler:
Tim “Salmontim” Salmon

Status: 
Local Team – Megrew’s Boats

Home Water(s): 
Long Island Sound

Angler:
Chris Shoplock

Home Water(s):
Mid Atlantic

Status:
Local Team – KFS

Experience:
Chris Shoplock , fisherman since throwing his first fly at age 4 in Idaho trout water, suffers from what can only be described as Fishing Attention Deficit Disorder.  Kayak, beach, lake, river, salt, fresh, spin-casting, fly-casting, and conventional casting are all methods he will employ to get him and his clients hooked up.  One day Chris saw a teenage kayaker catch a 60 pound striper on a med weight pole while he watched fishless from the beach. 

He promptly bought a kayak and began exploring the unlikely jewel that is the NJ Estuarine and Salt Water environment.  He began exploring the back sod banks and fly fishing for stealthy weakfish, savage bluefish and the mighty striped bass.  He also began launching into the surf and fishing the big striper migrations in the early spring and late fall.  He is an active member and moderator on several premier fishing web -sites and began guiding part time both in the surf and off the kayak 3 years ago.  Chris’ Surf Fishing roots have been immeasurably valuable in translating how inshore trophy fisheries can be explored and experienced by kayakers with relatively little effort.

Chris now fishes from Jamaica Bay, NY to Island Beach State Park, NJ over 120 days a year.  He is intimately familiar with hundreds of launch spots and the correct tides and times to find fish there.  He is most at home kayaking at night alone in a quiet back-bay estuary listening for bass slurping dinner.  He is a dedicated catch and release fisherman and very conservation minded.  He is currently working on a unique video project and doing presentations to kayak clubs and fishing clubs.

Angler:
Thomas Alexander (A.K.A. Lost4Reason)

Status:
Local Team - Liquid Surf & Sail

Home Water(s)
Florida Panhandle/Northern Gulf Coast

Experience:
As a well rounded angler and an esteemed member of the Gulf Coast Kayak Fishing Association you’ll find Thomas in pursuit of just about anything that inhabits the waters in the south east region of our country.  From Bass, Catfish, and Bluegill, to Redfish, Specs, and Flounder, to Spanish and King Macs; Thomas has ripped up more lips than a dentist in the old wild west – fish everywhere beware! 

Angler:
Liam Callaghan

Status:
Local Team – The Wilderness Way

Home Water(s):
Florida Panhandle

Experience:
Being a Florida native, the ocean has always been the focus of Liam's fishing endeavors.  Growing up he spent a great deal of his time surfing, diving, or chunking big baits off the local piers and jetties.  As an adult, his pursuit of both inshore species and big game has grown more widespread.  As a commercial fisherman in Alaska, he still found time to wet a line for King Salmon in the Prince William Sound.  He later moved to the Florida Keys and spent a good deal of time chasing tarpon, sharks, and bonefish.    He finally settled in The Florida Forgotten Coast where he has been tearing up big redfish tailing in shallow water and throwing large plugs at trout blowing up bait pods.  As an active member of many fishing clubs in the southeast, Liam currently fishes in over 20 local and regional tournaments a year with multiple wins and top finishes annually.

Angler:
Bryan “BDUV” Duval

Status:
Local Team - Key Sailing

Home Water(s)
Florida Panhandle/Northern Gulf Coast

Experience:
Bryan is an avid kayak angler and an extraordinarily active member within his local kayak fishing club, Gulf Coast Kayak Fishing Association.  If you’re in search of kayak rigging, Bryan Duval is your man!  He travels throughout the Northern Gulf Coast with his club, putting on demos and rigging clinics that astonish even the most weathered kayak angler.  Most often you’ll find Bryan on his Hobie Mirage Outfitter, guiding the next generation of Duval’s, his two twin daughters.  However, when he’s not honing the knowledge of the next generation, nothing gets Bryan’s blood pumping more than hearing his drag scream as he’s towed around the gulf by monstrous King Macs, Reds, Sharks or Jack Crevalle.  Look out power boaters—Duval’s on a high-octane sleigh ride!

Angler:               
Troy “YakontheFly” Eastman

Status:             
Local Team – Higher Ground of the Lowcountry

Home Water(s):
The Lowcountry, South Carolina

Experience:
Troy has been fishing for more than 40 of his 45 years.  He started fishing in his native San Diego, California waters for Bluegill, Trout, Catfish and Bass.  His grandparents introduced him to Striper, Sturgeon, Sand Shark, Halibut, Salmon and Lingcod fishing in Northern California, while on vacations to their homes.  He picked up his first fly rod at 8 years of age, and caught his first fish, a Brook Trout, that same day.

He joined the Army in 1982, and served for 20 years, being stationed in The Netherlands, Germany, South Korea, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Arizona, Texas, Georgia, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Alabama and South Carolina… Taking his fly and spinning rods with him wherever he went, he fished these places, as well as another 21 countries, and every state in the union during his travels.
When he retired from the Army in 2003, he moved to the South Carolina Lowcountry, where he immediately bought a Sit on Top kayak to pursue the local Redfish, Flounder, Seatrout, Spanish Mackeral, Sharks, Rays and Cobia (The latter he has yet to catch, but is still trying…)

Troy is one of the founding members of the Beaufort Area Redfish Flotilla, an informal fishing club of like minded kayak fishermen.  He has organized one Official BARF Kayak Fishing Tournament in his local waters, and five other kayak fishing gatherings, since moving to the Lowcountry.  He is currently planning to organize BARF Kayak Fishing Tournaments every year on Veteran’s Day Weekend, in the Beaufort, Savannah and Charleston areas.

Troy also travels to Alaska every summer for a two week kayak fishing vacation to target Halibut, Lingcod, Rockfish and Salmon, and to Florida two or three times a year to target Snook, Tarpon, Redfish, Bonita, Grouper and Mangrove Snapper form a kayak.

Angler:
Rick Engle

Status:
Local Team – Liquid Surf & Sail

Home Water(s):
Florida Panhandle/Northern Gulf Coast

Experience:
Rick spends countless hours scouring the Northern Gulf Coast in his Hobie Adventure (Big-A) for King Mackerel, Spanish, Cobia, Tarpon, and occasionally reef dwellers. As a standing member of his local kayak club, www.GulfCoastKayakFishing.com whether at demos or on the water, Rick is always ready to share his techniques with anybody willing to listen.

Accomplishments:

• 2nd Place - 2007 Gulf Coast Kayak Fishing Tournament King Mackerel Division
• 3rd Place Overall – Kayak Wars 2008
• 2nd Place Eastern Gulf Team Division – Kayak Wars 2008
  
  
  

Angler:
Rob "hoth2o" Garber

Status:
Local Team - Huggins Outboard

Home Water(s):
South Georgia

Experience:
One of Rob's earliest memories is fishing with his grandfather, in a creek under a bridge.  Most of his best memories tend to revolve around fishing.  Rob was lucky to have lived all around the country.  He got to fish with his father in Pennsylvanian trout streams, Canadian lakes, both the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico, as well as, numerous ponds, lakes and rivers in between. 

In high school and college he lived in Pensacola, Florida. It was here that he became surf and pier rat.  Rob says he spent a lot of his free time, and truthfully time he was supposed to be in class, fishing from every pier and dock between Panama City FL and Bay Minute AL.

Rob loves kayak fishing for the simple reason it gets him out fishing.  Since buying his first kayak, he says he has been out fishing more than the ten years previous. He also finds that you meet the best people. 

“Everyone I have met fishing out of a kayak was top notch."  Rob considers himself an expert in neither kayaking nor fishing, but he does love this sport/hobby/addiction!  Introducing people to the sport has been the most rewarding for Rob. 

Accomplishments:

• Georgia Kayak Fishing Association Regional Director South Georgia.

Angler:
           Ted J. Gorder (A.K.A. “THEOG1”)

Status:
           Local Team - Key Sailing

Home Water(s):
            Florida Panhandle/Northern Gulf Coast

Experience:
Ted is one of the founding fathers and key members of the Gulf Coast Kayak Fishing Association.  Along with the GCKFA, Ted is currently setting the precedent for kayak fishing tournaments in and around the Gulf Coast of Florida.  Aside from hosting one of the world’s best kayak fishing tournaments, Ted and his associates host dozens of demos and outdoor events throughout the Gulf, educating and sharing their love for the sport with anyone interested.  If you’re new to kayak fishing, considering getting into the sport, or a seasoned vet in search of the latest and greatest, Ted and his associates are definitely the pros you want to contact.  If haven’t been lucky enough to meet Ted and his associates in person or attend one of their high-quality demos, you should definitely take time to check out their website, where you’ll be able to ask questions and share everything imaginable related to kayak fishing.

Accomplishments:

• GCKFA – Founding Member

Angler:
           Michael Hudson (A.K.A. “MJ”)

Status:
           Local Team - Florida Bay Outfitters

Home Water(s):
            Florida Keys/Everglades

Experience:
Michael is a Guide for Florida Kayak Tours which specializes in ecotourism and kayak fishing.  His knowledge and expertise cover a vast area in and around South Florida, including the Florida Keys, Ft. Lauderdale, Miami and South Beach.  Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, Michael’s experience and local knowledge will ensure you the experience of a lifetime on your next visit to South Florida.

Accomplishments:

• American Canoe Association Instructor

Angler: 
Anthony “igotthebigone” Hoffmann

Status:
Local Team - Fairhope Boat Company

Home Water(s):
Mobile Bay, AL

Experience:
Anthony Hoffman started out fishing for brim, catfish and bass at a very early age in SE Alabama, he is now a resident of SW Alabama and a huge threat to all tournament participants in many of the kayak fishing tournaments that take place throughout the Gulf Coast.    Known to his peers and his club members at www.mbkfa.com as “igotthebigone,” you can be assured that Hoffman lives up to his name!  Not a believer?  Simply take a look at his accomplishment below!

Accomplishments:

• MBKFA - Director
• First Place – Speckled Trout – GCKFA Spring Tourney 2007
• First Place - Flounder  - GCKFA Spring Tourney 2007
• Second Place - Cajun Slam – BCKFC PaddlePallooza 2008
• First Place – Redfish – GCKFA Spring Tourney 2008
• First Place – Flounder – MBKFA Spring Tourney 2008

Angler: 
James “S1tpilot” Ivy

Status:
Local Team - Higher Ground

Home Water(s):  
Beaufort, SC

Experience:
James’ first experience fishing out of a kayak was almost 20 years ago during a white water kayak trip on the Selway River in Idaho.    It was 3 years ago when James first discovered salt water kayak fishing and it’s been hard keeping him off the water since.  When James is not acting as an airline captain, he’s on the water in search of the next Red Fish tailing in the marsh grass.  A regular participant in the BARF (Beaufort Area Redfish Flotilla) he’s always willing to be an ambassador for the sport and looks forward to guiding both the novice angler and the old salt; it takes very little persuasion to get James to introduce others to kayak fishing.  

Angler:
Brad "BK" Kirn

Status:
Local Team – The Wilderness Way

Home Water(s)
Florida Panhandle

Experience:
A Florida resident for over 40 years, Brad's Love of fishing began before he was 10 years old.  He began scouring the local ponds, lakes, canals, and creeks of Broward & Dade counties in pursuit of anything that would chase a lure.  Over the past 20 years his focus has been fishing the Florida Panhandle in both freshwater and saltwater.  His love of fishing and his appreciation of nature spawned his venture into kayak fishing.  Whether he's tossing a fly for Largemouth Bass, or stalking Redfish and Trout with artificials in the backwaters of Florida's Forgotten Coast, you will find Brad on the water every chance he gets.  When not on the water, you can find Brad at http://www.fcka.net/home/ participating in demos, monthly tournaments, and spreading the word about kayak fishing! 

Angler:
Vlad-Adrian Moldoveanu

Status:
Local Team - Fairhope Boat Company

Home Water(s):
Mobile Bay, AL 

Experience:
Vlad is a regular contestant to the kayak fishing tournaments in the south-west. He participates along with other members of Mobile Bay Kayak Fishing Association in an assortment of tournaments throughout the South. Since he left his home of Romania several years ago, Valad has found his new home and in Mobile, AL and has stood out as one of the most active members of the MBKFA.  If you’re looking for up-to-date information you can be sure to find it through Mr. Moldoveanu’s posts!  He is constantly keeping those in the South provided with some of the detailed fishing reports around.

Angler:
           Michael “Offshore Mike” Stillman

Status:
           Local Team – Nautical Ventures

Home Water(s)
           Southeast Florida

Experience:
“Offshore Mike”, as he’s known in Florida, holds true to his name.  Mike stalks some of the biggest game fish the East Coast has to offer. When he’s not putting the hurt on snooks, reds, permit and bones inshore, you’ll find him heading out into blue water aggressively targeting some of the East Coast’s most sought-after pelagics; kings, sails and dolphin.  The “Sleigh Ride” happens to be Offshore Mike’s primary mode of transportation, so keep an eye out when you’re out on the open ocean because Mike just may be headed your way in an all-out fish fighting fury!

Angler:
Daryl “kayakcatch” Terry

Status: 
Local Team – The Outside World

Home Water(s): 
North Georgia Freshwater Impoundments

Experience:
Daryl started fishing for catfish and bream in local creeks and rivers with his grandfather and father as a child.  Later he began canoe fishing which then lead to kayak fishing.  These days Daryl spends his time chasing Striped, Large Mouth and Spotted Bass. He also serves on the Leadership Council of the Georgia Kayak Fishing Association and enjoys introducing new people to the sport of kayak fishing - helping folks get their first “striper sleigh ride” is what he is all about.    

Angler:
Dan White

Status:
Local Team - Liquid Surf & Sail

Home Water(s)
Florida Panhandle/Northern Gulf Coast

Once a freshwater bass fisherman, Dan converted to saltwater fishing targeting smoker kings, cobia, snapper, redfish, and speckled trout all along the Gulf Coast. Thanks to the versatility of his Hobie Outfitter Dan fishes the surf, near shore wrecks, and inshore flats and bayous for a wide variety of pelagic and reef dwelling fish. As an active member of Gulf Coast Kayak Fishing Association Dan helps share the sport of kayak fishing with the entire region through rigging clinics and as an active volunteer for local kayak fishing tournaments.

Accomplishments:

Angler:
Ron C. Hustvedt, Jr.

Status:
Local Team – HiTempo Ski & Sail

Home Water(s):
Minnesota, Wisconsin & Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

Experience:
A Minnesota boy born and raised Ron has been fishing ever since he could hold a fishing pole. Born a city kid, Ron was fortunate to grow up in Minneapolis-the city of lakes. Once he was old enough to work, Ron got a job at a resort in central Minnesota and spent as much time as possible learning how to improve his skills as an angler. Ron’s love for writing and photography somehow came together with his love of the water and combined for a decade long career as an outdoor writer and photographer. Ron is now getting into the world of videography and video editing.

Owner and founder of WriteOutdoors.com, Ron writes and takes photographs for numerous regional and national publications including In-Fisherman, Outdoor News and Game & Fish Publications. He runs a regular podcast at www.writeoutdoors.com  and makes regular appearances on KFAN’s morning outdoors radio program. Ron is also a member of the Association of Great Lakes Outdoor Writers.

No stranger to the motorized fishing craft, Ron truly enjoys the silence and solace of canoes and kayaks. A frequent visitor to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Ron took to the kayak like a fish to water and enjoys plying the thousands of hard-to-reach lakes throughout Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. He is also known to take a kayak out onto Minnesota’s more heavily fished, and much larger, bodies of water including Mille Lacs, Cass, Minnetonka and Vermilion. 

Angler:
           Courtney Allee (A.K.A. “Ladybackwater”)

Status:
           Local Team – Jerry B’s

Home Water(s):
            Corpus Christi, TX

Experience:
Courtney Allee sets the water on fire!  She assaults the coastline year-round throwing an onslaught of artificials (specifically top water) in search of Red Fish, Specs, Black Drum, and Flounder.  However, when the fishing slows, Courtney takes full advantage of her surroundings. You’ll either find her out on the water shooting wildlife photography or taking aim at the local waterfowl. 

Angler:
Chris “Where Y’ak” Holmes

Status:
Local Team – Massey’s Sports Center

Home Water(s):
Chalmette, La

Experience:

Born and raised in St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana, Chris Holmes grew up fishing some of the best inshore waters Louisiana has to offer.  Having fished for many years in a traditional Louisiana pirogue, kayak fishing was a natural progression for Chris.

Chris has decades of experience working for recreational fishing and other environmental issues.  As an award-winning outdoor writer and photographer, Chris has photo and story credits in State, Regional and National publications.  He currently serves as Chairman of the Board of the Louisiana Outdoor Writers Association.

Chris’ vast fishing experience includes many U.S. states and also Canada, Mexico and Costa Rica.  While primarily targeting spotted sea trout and redfish, he has extensive experience with a wide variety of fresh and salt water game fish.  A self proclaimed “top water nut,” Chris says there is nothing better than the explosion of a hungry fish on a top water lure.

An avid kayak fisherman, Chris is a member of several kayak fishing organizations including the Bayou Coast Kayak Fishing Club, Gulf Coast Kayak Fishing Association and the Mobile Bay Kayak Fishing Association. 

Accomplishments:

• 2nd - 2008 BCKFC Triple Treble Challenge
• 1st - 2009 PaddlePalooza VI / Spotted Sea Trout

Angler: 
Todd “Yak-a-Lou” Lewis

Status: 
Local Team – The Backpacker

Home Water(s):
South/Central Louisiana

Experience:
Todd is known as the unofficial “Godfather” of Louisiana kayak fishing and is one of the most experienced paddle fishermen in the Bayou Coast Kayak Fishing Club.  He started fishing as soon as he was old enough to hold a cane pole and by the time he was ten he was fishing from pirogues (Cajun canoes).  He’s spent countless hours introducing people to the sport and helping them get started.

Todd’s passion is to haunt the ultra-shallow marshes of coastal Louisiana while sight fishing for redfish.  He often compares his style of fishing to squirrel hunting and cautions “stealth is your friend.”  He’s landed more than sixteen redfish in as little as two hours from his kayak.

Todd and his lovely bride are raising three teenaged boys and the whole family is actively involved in the kayak-fishing scene in the Sportsman’s Paradise.  All five members of the household drive Hobie Revolutions!  Their family IS its own mini-Hobie Nation!   Todd is a boating safety instructor for the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division where he currently serves as a Sergeant.

Accomplishments:

• 2nd - 2008 PaddlePalooza V / Leopard Red
• 5th - Fall-n-Tide / Cajun Slam
• 1st - 2007 PaddlePalooza  IV /  Cajun Slam
• 1st - 2007 PaddlePalooza IV / Mule Trout 
• Original member – BCKFC
• Former Vice President BCKFC
• Former Tournament Director BCKFC
• Weigh-master BCKFC

Angler:
Charlie "Gone Yakin" Mitchell

Status:
Local Team- KO Sailing

Home Water(s):
Galveston Bay

Experience:
Charlie is a freshwater fisherman at heart, but quite often you’ll find him trashing around in the salt throwing an onslaught of artificials in search of the coveted “Texas Slam” (Reds, Trout and Flounder). Charlie regularly attends kayak fishing tournaments all along the Texas coast, where he has gathered a great deal of knowledge in kayak rigging and yak customization.

Accomplishments:

• 4th  Place - 2006 BTB Kingfish Tournament

Angler:
James (Jim) Tesch, aka Ninja 

Status:
Local Team:  Seaworthy Marine

Home Water(s):
Gulf Coast Texas (Upper and Middle Coast)

Experience:
Texas Born and Raised, Jim grew up fishing the waters of the Texas Coast with a little freshwater mixed in for good measure.  When not kayak tournament fishing, he can be found chasing speckled seatrout and redfish year round.  However during certain times of the year, he will be targeting white bass during the winter and spring spawns, flounder during the fall migration and king mackerel during the summer months.  With his vast experience and knowledge, Jim is always willing to give pointers on where to go and what to throw.

Jim has also joined the Seaworthy Marine family and now you can find him helping out and answering questions at Hobie kayak demos, speaking at fishing seminars, writing articles for the monthly newsletter and assisting on a new Kayak fishing tournament that’s destined to be a Texas Hit.

Accomplishments:

• *1st Place Overall – 2009 3rd Coast Kayak Series Freeport
• *2nd Place Redfish – 2006 December NAKA Freeport
• *1st Place Overall – 2006 August Kayakmasters Galveston
• *1st Place Overall – 2006 May Stars & Stripes
• *2nd Place Redfish – 2005 Bolivar Tournament
• 2008 Vice President/Tournament Director Paddling Anglers in Canoes and Kayaks (PACK)

Angler:
David “Boogie-D” Elgas

Status:
Local Team: Windward Boats
  
Home Water(s):
North Shore, Oahu

Experience:
Born in 1967, David Elgas grew up surfing and fishing the waters of Southern and Central California.  At age 20 he moved to the Hawaiian Islands in search of the perfect wave and was soon branded “Boogie-D” for his bodyboarding skills.  In the Islands Boogie-D found an ocean lover’s paradise and quickly excelled at a wide variety of ocean sports. With countless hours in the water and extensive American Red Cross training, David has become a respected waterman, regarded by his peers as one of the top kayak anglers in the state of Hawaii.

Boogie-D can typically be found on the North Shore of Oahu, fishing, guiding and sailing with his company, Coastal Kayak Tours, www.coastalkayaktours.com.  The Island waters David fishes are filled with big pelagics as well as a variety of inshore species. Boogie-D’s favorite targets include ahi, mahi, ono, striped marlin and sail fish as well as grey snapper, giant trevally, amberjack and barracuda. If you want to fish Oahu, he’s the man to talk to. Whether Boogie-D is sailing a Hobie AI or pedaling a Hobie Adventure, he’s usually catching large fish.

Accomplishments:

• 3rd - 2008 Spring Yak Attack Tournament
• 3rd - 2008 Summer Yak Attack Pro Division
• 3rd - 2008 Hui Waa Papio Tournament
• 4th - 2008 Aqua Hunter State Makahiki Tournament
  
  
  

Angler:
Micah Pignolet

Status:
Local Team: Windward Boats
  
Home Water(s):
Haleiwa, Hawaii

Experience:
Born and raised on Oahu’s North Shore, Micah Pignolet started fishing at an early age from his father’s hand built wooden boat near Haleiwa Harbor.  He is equally at home body boarding in 12 foot shore break or paddling far offshore from the Hawaiian Islands in search of the giant pelagic species that call the waters home.  Originally talked into buying a kayak by fellow team member Boogie-D less than two years ago, he and his close knit group of friends have carved out a name for themselves as some of the premiere kayak anglers in the state. Pedaling in some monster fish and having respectable showings in all tournaments entered.

Angler               
Dan “Aloha Dan” Roudebush

Status             
Local Team - P & P Kayak Distributors

Home Water(s)
Island of Hawaii

Experience
Dan has fished most of his life for trout, bass, perch, sunfish and other freshwater species. So when he retired on the Big Island, he looked forward to encountering some large fish. An experienced paddler and canoe racer, Dan wanted a craft with more capacity than his single OC-1 canoe. One look at the Hobie Mirage Adventure and he knew this was a kayak for big fish. Dan has fished up and down the West Side of the Island, from Upolu Point to South Point, catching Ono (Wahoo), Mahi Mahi, Yellowfin, Skip Jack, Ulua and other Hawaiian species. He has made it a point to develop techniques for fishing to take advantage of the Adventure's sailing capability. Initially using the Sidekick to roam far offshore to Hawaiian Fish Aggregation Devices (FADs), Dan quickly realized the potential of the Adventure Island relative to trip range and trolling techniques.

Angler:
Jeff “Transient” Goudreau
 
Status:
Local Team - Fogh Marine
 
Home Water(s):
Lake Erie, Detroit River, Lake St. Clair
 
Experience: