Introduction to fishing
My father has been an avid bass angler for many years, and we’ve shared nearly a dozen years fishing together. Those experiences have shaped my passion for fishing and connected me to the bass fishing community for about 12 years.
Experiences and challenges
Being part of the industry has brought both positive and negative experiences. I’ve made great friends and connections along the way, which has been very rewarding. However, as a woman, I’ve also encountered skepticism. Some people question my credibility, such as tackleshop employees who seem surprised to see me there.
Representation and visibility
There’s still a lingering stigma about women in fishing, likely because it’s long been a male-dominated field. That said, things are improving, and I believe the fishing community’s perception of women is slowly changing for the better.
I feel that women are being represented adequately at the moment, and it’s encouraging to see progress. Women’s angling groups are moving in a positive direction. I’ve also noticed more women and girls showing up at events like the Bassmaster Classic, which is inspiring. It’s exciting to see girls in high school fishing jerseys and women being included on pro staffs for top industry brands.
Equality and inclusion efforts
Women in fishing are being given more opportunities now than ever, but I’d love to see even more. Having women featured prominently in boat and lure company advertisements would be a powerful step toward greater inclusion.
Casting Queens, a female support group, has been a game-changer for me. It’s refreshing to be part of a community that celebrates our shared passion for fishing and helps each other grow in the sport.
Personal achievements
One of my proudest fishing moments was catching my biggest bass while fishing with my dad. The fish weighed 7 pounds 6 ounces—an absolute lifetime catch for Central Minnesota. Sharing that moment with my dad made it even more special.
Future perspectives
I believe the future for women in the fishing industry is bright. The continued development of high school fishing programs will play a key role in this progress. These programs give young people a head start, helping them discover a passion for the outdoors. For some, this early exposure will lead to lifelong involvement in fishing and outdoor activities.
Advice for aspiring female anglers
To any young woman interested in fishing, don’t think of it as a “men’s only” sport. If you can, find a mentor or a friend to fish with—it makes the learning process much more enjoyable and social. Having a support partner turns fishing into a shared experience, and you’ll grow together as anglers.
You can follow Megan Wanek on Instagram: @megan_wanek and @megan_wanekfishing.
