Written by:
Anna Kay
Introduction to fishing
My first memory fishing was when I was 3 years old and my dad took me fishing. He let me reel in a cast he had made. While I was reeling, I hooked into a 5 lb largemouth. From that point forward I was hooked. Before I was born, my dad fished the Opens—his love of fishing passed on to me. I truly believe I have been fishing since I could walk.
Experiences and challenges
As a woman in fishing we are the minority, but that doesn’t change a thing for me. My love for the sport is always growing. Over the years I have noticed more and more women in the sport. We have built a community that continually supports one another. A few years ago it was almost unheard of for women to be invested in fishing—but not completely unheard of. Overall my experience as a woman in fishing has been pretty positive.
Perceptions and attitudes
I feel like the fishing community as a whole is beginning to take women more seriously. From my personal experience, the industry can be a big supporter of women. A woman in bass fishing can be just as good as a man. Fish know no gender, age, or color.
Support system
There are several groups out there that support women anglers. One that I have known of for years is the girlfishinggangon Instagram. This group continuously promotes female anglers from all over. It also builds a community for females in fishing as a whole.
Representation and visibility
Somewhat—I am starting to see more women in the industry as far as media and events. Although I see few in leadership roles. I think this is because, like anything else, women are becoming more involved in the analytics. This is definitely an area I would like to see grow for women in the future.
Changes over time
I have definitely noticed more acceptance of women in fishing over time. From the time I started fishing in the 6th grade all the way up to my now sophomore year of college, I have noticed more and more women in the sport.
Equality and inclusion efforts
I think the Women’s League should start up again and that the top female angler of the season should be given a Classic berth. I feel like this is a fair way to promote women but also include them more in the industry.
Personal achievements
- Finished 3rd in the first ever B.A.S.S. Junior Open on Lake Hartwell
- 2021 TBF World Finals Top Female Angler
- 2021 TBF World Finals Top Co-Ed Team
- 2022 TBF World Finals Top Female Team
- 2023 Bassmaster All-American Honorable Mention for South Carolina
Fishing style
I love topwater fishing! There is nothing better than seeing an absolute pig blow up on a topwater. The adrenaline rush that comes with a topwater blow-up is the best feeling.
Advice for aspiring female anglers
One piece of advice I would give to women and girls interested in pursuing a career or hobby in fishing is a little bit of faith goes a long way. Keep pushing, keep your head up, and turn the bad days into learning experiences. Whenever I am feeling flustered I always remember my favorite verse from the Bible, which is Matthew 17:20-21, and it says, “For if you have faith the size of a mustard seed and you say to this mountain; move from here to there; it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.”
Follow Anna Kay on instagram: @annakayfishing
