I met Bob through our website and we spoke on the phone. We had a lot to chat about.

1) How did you first learn about kayak fishing and what made you take up the sport?

About 10 years ago, I was fishing from a local bridge. I kept thinking how nice it would be to fish an area that was just out of reach from me. Just then, I watched as a guy came paddling up the pass with a fishing rod sticking up from the back. As he hit the shore, he pulls up a stringer full of fish. That day I went to Estero River Outfitters and bought my first kayak and I have been hooked ever since.

2) What was your first kayak?

The first kayak I bought was a Wilderness Systems Tarpon 120. The first time I launched and went to the area I wanted to fish, I caught a big snook on my first cast!

3) Where do you do most of your fishing and for what species?

I mainly fish in the Southwest Florida area; Estero Bay, Pine Island Sound and Charlotte Harbor.  These are the areas I usually haunt. I fish a lot of tournaments that take me from the 10,000 Islands to Ozello. My fish of choice is redfish but I catch the usual Florida backwater species, snook, tarpon, etc.

4) How did the SWFKKA come about?

The Southwest Florida Kayak Angler’s Association came about as a direct result of the Blue Line Fishing Team. Our team is comprised of Deputies who fish competitively to bring attention to the Blue Line Fund, a charity that assists the families of Law Enforcement, Fire and EMS workers in need. As we continued to place and win in various tournaments, we began getting emails from people who are new to kayak fishing and wanted to learn more. I created the Association to introduce members to other members in a friendly environment where we can together further the sport. www.swfkaa.com www.bluelinefishingteam.com

5) Are you on any factory teams?

Not really, I have sponsors but not a specific kayak manufacturer. Since I fish using Wilderness System kayaks, I have approached them about their team, but that hasn’t worked out so I am talking to other companies.

6) What are some of your most memorable kayak fishing experiences?

Winning my first tournament, catching my first tarpon from a kayak, and definitely meeting great people are among the most memorable experiences.