Where were you raised? I was born and raised in Grand Forks, ND and spent many summers at our family cabin in Nevis, MN.
How old were you when you started fishing and what did you spend your youth fishing for? I started fishing at 4 years old off our dock on 6th Crow Wing, for sunnies and perch, before graduating to fishing for walleyes off shore in the rivers.
What brought you to Sitka, Alaska? Growing up listening to my parents’ stories of living in Alaska planted a seed of bigger country and endless adventure. Then I heard about Angling Unlimited through Annessa. It sounded like a dream come true!
History with AU? I started deckhanding in 2013 for Captain Ben. Then once Ben retired, Captain Bryan took over Loon and I continued to deckhand on the same boat in 2014-2015. I got my taste for captaining in 2015 and can’t wait to see what 2016 holds!
What do you like most about being a captain? I love the opportunity to guide those who may have never held a fish in their life. I get to coach them through mooching, see them feel the bite, and hook up with a wild salmon. I also enjoy being the tour guide to some of the most amazing sights I have had the pleasure of witnessing.
What does fishing mean to you? Fishing to me is a great way to unwind, is a great excuse to enjoy nature, and if you can catch some fish at the same time, that’s just a bonus!
What’s your favorite fish recipe? My favorite fish recipe is Captain Cobra’s famous fish tacos, complete with pico and friends!
Eric:
Congratulations on becoming a full time Captain. We enjoyed you as a Deck Hand and hope to as a Captain as well.
Way to go!
Mark Topping
Congratulations Captain! Was thinking about you when I went through Grand Forks on my way bird hunting in October. Sorry we won’t get up to Sitka this year. We are often speaking of you and Cobra and great times. Thanks again.
Matt
Congratulations Eric!
We look forward to seeing you in your own boat this summer. Loon won’t be the same without you; you were a TERRIFIC deckhand!
Mary and Brad