I was lucky enough to track him down for an interview. Here is Part 2 of our conversation (Here is Part 1):
PK: I know you have given a few kayak fishing seminars. What is it about these that you enjoy? Is there a schedule of events you might be speaking at?
TC: I like bridging the gap between
anglers and great products most. Anglers
have so many choices when they visit a paddlesports store, tackle shop, or shop
on the internet. Over the years I’ve
wasted my fair share of time and money trying something that’s supposed to
work, fit, or last. So when I come
across great products I can’t wait to share them with fellow anglers to help
them be more successful and comfortable while also saving money in the long
run.
I have one last speaking engagement for spring. The event will take place on May 15th at Pack & Paddle in Lafayette, LA.
I have one last speaking engagement for spring. The event will take place on May 15th at Pack & Paddle in Lafayette, LA.
PK: I
think I may know the answer to this, but if you could only pick one place to
fish the rest of your life, where would it be and why?
TC: I stumbled upon paradise in 2001, and
I have no plans of leaving. Louisiana
has an exceptionally diverse array of both fresh and saltwater fish species.
The inshore estuary consisting of salt, brackish, and freshwater marshes
produce tall grasses that line the waterways that I paddle in. I experience wildlife in its most venerable
state being that a lot of these areas haven’t been visited by anyone in a very
long time. When I need a change of pace
the gulf has many huge fish that will pull me and my kayak around. I leave any stress from life at the launch
and it has disappeared by the time I get back, I’m truly blessed!
PK: That’s what I thought you would say.
What do you consider to be
some of your greatest achievements in fishing?
TC: I’ve
caught a bunch of different fish and have placed high in tournaments, but to me
great achievements come in the form of helping other anglers, the community,
and preserving the environment.
Other than helping anglers while guiding, at
different seminars, and events I’ve been a part of the local kayak launch
constructions. I’m also very active
within the local kayak fishing community.
I participate in CCA’s tag and release
program here in Louisiana; have been promoting CPR (Catch-Photo-Release) through
the Lafayette Kayak Fishing Club’s CPR Online Tournament as one of the founders
of the tournament, and the tournament’s director.
PK: How
has the sport of kayak fishing grown as a whole since you started kayak
fishing?
TC: It’s grown
so much! Boat tournaments are adding kayak divisions, dedicated kayak launches
are being built, prominent manufactures within the fishing industry are
beginning to focus on kayak fishing…man, it has grown!
PK: What
has been the greatest fishing memory you have?
TC: Taking my
father fishing on a charter when I visited California a few years back. It was our only fishing trip together, and
our last being that he passed away a couple years ago.
PK: Outside
of kayak fishing, what other hobbies do you have?
TC: I play the
piano and trombone, and love to plant things.
PK: Any future
goals for yourself (fish you want to catch, places you want to go, etc…)?
TC: I’d like
to get on some tuna here in Louisiana out of the kayak, also some huge grouper,
sailfish, etc. I’m ready to get some
nice frames on the wall!
PK: Ok, time
for some quick answer questions.
I am a
rod guy, my whole trip revolves around what rods I am going to bring. If you could choose one, what is your
favorite Rod?
TC: 7’, medium
action, with extra fast tip.
PK: What is
your favorite Lure?
TC: Glow/chartreuse
swimbait
PK: Favorite
fishing kayak?
TC: JacksonCuda
PK: Where is
your favorite place to fish?
TC: Calcasieu
Lake
PK: Who has
been your favorite fishing partner?
TC: John
Williams
PK: Who is the
best angler you have ever had the chance to fish with?
TC: Wayne
Richardson
PK: Yourself
included, who is the best Louisiana angler you know?
TC: Wayne
Richardson
PK: Who is one
person you would love to take Kayak Fishing?
TC: My buddy
Rodney
PK: Do you ever
fly fish?
TC: Soon, very
soon!
PK: If someone
went to fish your area, where and what do they need to eat?
TC: Not sure I
try to eat at home as much as possible.
PK: Thanks for
your time Tray. I appreciate the
interview.
Other Interviews:
Other articles of interest:
No comments:
Post a Comment