Introduction to Fishing
I grew up in northern Wisconsin on the Chippewa Flowage, so I have been fishing since the beginning. My dad would take me out walleye and pan fishing. My passion for bass fishing grew when I started dating my boyfriend, Lane. He and his younger brother Dakota would let me hop in the boat constantly and taught me all the bass fishing techniques. That’s where my love for bass fishing really took off.
Experiences and Challenges
My experiences have really come from being in clubs and fishing weeknight tournaments around my home. I’m in a club that is very supportive of women fishing and wanting to succeed. It’s been great to have that kind of environment, where everyone is rooting for each other, regardless of gender. I truly believe that since I’ve started getting into fishing tournaments, I’ve been paired with some pretty awesome men who genuinely want me to succeed. Just like any angler who fishes out of the back of the boat, sometimes it’s a struggle, but I don’t think that has anything to do with me being female.
Support and Inspiration
As I mentioned before, the club I’m in really strives for females to succeed. I will also say that my boyfriend and his brother are big fans of mine as well. They help me learn and grow my skills every time I’m out with them. I’m incredibly grateful for their support, and it’s helped me become a better angler.
Representation and Visibility
I do feel like women are adequately represented in the social media world. I follow so many talented female anglers, and it’s great to see them out there. I also get to fish alongside one of my friends, Maggie Castello. Watching her share content and be a part of big brands is so cool to see as a female angler. The visibility of women in fishing is important, and it’s something that continues to grow.
Personal Achievements
It’s hard to pick just one moment that I’m proud of. Winning a weeknight tournament, catching my PB—it’s all been a blast, and I can’t wait to continue to make more memories out on the water.
Fishing Style
My favorite fishing style would be anything I can reel—I enjoy moving baits. I’m not a very patient person, so anything I have to wait for or let sink to the bottom is a struggle for me. I’d much rather keep things moving and feel the excitement of a quick bite.
Advice for Aspiring Female Anglers
My advice for young women and girls is simple: Go out and have fun. Take in all the information you’re given and give it your best shot. Winning trophies and money is cool, don’t get me wrong, but the minute you set the hook and get the fish in the boat, that’s really all that matters. You should be smiling and enjoying yourself as much as you can when you’re out on the water.
You can follow Nichole on Instagram: @nicholekelsey and Facebook: Nichole Kelsey
