Written by:
Briley Mills
Introduction to fishing
Some of my earliest fishing memories were when my dad would take me fishing in our neighborhood pond. He is the one that got me hooked on fishing. If we had plans to go after school, I looked forward to it all day. Nothing was more exciting to me than going fishing with my dad.
It is funny looking back now—he used to tell me that I could not talk or the fish would hear me. I could only whisper, but I think that’s just because he wanted some peace and quiet. He would bait my hook and get out all of my tangles. When I caught a fish, he would unhook it for me so that I could hold it and kiss it bye. I loved the days that I spent fishing the pond with my dad.
Experiences and challenges
As a woman in the fishing industry, I have only ever received love and support. When I started tournament fishing my sophomore year of high school, I had full support from my parents, friends, teammates, teachers, and other anglers along the way. It truly is a blessing to know that I have so many people in my life that believe in me and my dreams. I honestly cannot remember a time where I have felt like I wasn’t accepted in the fishing industry.
Perceptions and attitudes
I feel as though there are some people out there that perceive women in the fishing industry as a joke. The only time I’ve personally seen this is online through some internet trolls. Luckily, I have never encountered someone that did not think I should be fishing.
I believe that over the years there has been a shift in the industry towards inclusivity. Coming from my personal experiences, I think that the majority of the fishing industry is doing a fantastic job at supporting women that want to fish.
Support system
The greatest support system I have found within the fishing community is other women that fish! I honestly believe that the greatest support you’ll receive as a woman that loves to fish is from other females in the industry.
Every single female in this industry that I have interacted with has been nothing but kind and supportive. I am grateful that I have these women to lean on and get advice from. Without the support from a few specific women over the years, I probably wouldn’t be where I am today. I am forever grateful for the strong women that have impacted my life.
Representation and visibility
I do believe that women are adequately represented in the fishing industry. Over the years I have seen more and more coverage on women in the industry—whether it be through social media, a magazine, a website blog, etc.
I have also seen more and more fishing brands that are willing to work with women, which is so important. I think that it is only going to get better as time goes on and as more women get into the sport.
Changes over time
I did not really pay attention to that as a young girl. For me it was kind of like, I love to go fishing with my dad and I’m the happiest when I am fishing.
As I got older and began to tournament fish, around the age of 15, I started to notice things like that. Since then, I feel as though the acceptance and role of women in the industry has grown. I am constantly hearing of and seeing more and more women get into fishing.
Equality and inclusion efforts
I would just like to see brands continue to work with and support women in the industry. Support from big companies goes a long way and definitely helps to inspire other girls and women to pick up a pole!
Personal achievement
I am so proud of myself for accomplishing my dream of fishing on a collegiate level. I am currently fishing for the Emmanuel University Bass Fishing Team.
My freshman season has flown by and I can’t believe it’s nearing the end. This is a whole new level of competition and I love the challenge of it all. I truly am learning so much and growing as an angler and a person here at Emmanuel. I am going to make sure I soak up every moment fishing at this level. I thank the Lord all the time for this opportunity.
Fishing style
You’ve got to hear me out—they are two polar opposites, but I seriously cannot choose between a cranking bite and a summertime topwater bite.
I love the crankbait because it is like a fun little surprise when you almost get the rod ripped out of your hands by a bass. I also love a good walking topwater bite because of the adrenaline rush you get when a bass blows up on your bait.
Advice for aspiring female anglers
My advice to any aspiring female angler or young girl would be: don’t be afraid of judgment and dream big. Be humble and have integrity. Always go out there and have fun and don’t let anyone dull your sparkle!
Follow Briley on Instagram: @brileymillsfishing
