THE HISTORY OF SPORTFISHING
THE HISTORY OF SPORTFISHING

THE HISTORY OF SPORTFISHING

The History of Sportfishing takes the audience on an intriguing journey through the sport’s origins, explores periods of rapid research and development, features key figures in its history, and highlights the lessons learned from both successes and failures along the way.

WATCH THE SERIES

WATCH THE TRAILER

This groundbreaking 12-part documentary series tells the History of Sportfishing with a stunning blend of vintage and modern photographs and never before seen archival film footage paired with spectacular 4K contemporary action.

Purchase Series

TWELVE HISTORICAL CHAPTERS

Experience the thrill of the hunt as we delve into the historical milestones of sportfishing's pursuit of the big catch.

Chapter 1: The Bite
Chapter 2: From Survival to Sport
Chapter 3: In Search of Giants
Chapter 4: American Ingenuity
Chapter 5: Pushing The Limits
Chapter 6: The Art of the Fly
Chapter 7: Artisans of the Fly
Chapter 8: Fly Fishing Explodes in Saltwater
Chapter 9: Bass, The Gamest Fish that Swims
Chapter 10: The Competitive Edge
Chapter 11: A World of Opportunities
Chapter 12: Conservation and the Future of the Sport

ORIGINS AND ANCIENT PRACTICES

The History of Sportfishing is a multi-part film series that will be the most comprehensive film ever produced on the history of the sport. The story is told in an historical documentary format, with the overarching theme being a celebration of Sportfishing and the unique developments, individuals and industry leaders that have made it what it is today.

JOIN THE HISTORY OF SPORTFISHING COMMUNITY

Join Michael and the series staff, fishing industry professionals and anglers across the globe in our very own online community.

Bill Shedd, Chairman/CEO, American Fishing Tackle Company
Dave Pfeiffer, President, Shimano America
Bill DePriest, Publisher/Editor Pacific Coast Sportfishing Magazine
Doug Kern, Co-Owner Fisherman’s Landing & Fisherman’s Landing Tackle

“Long before my father, Milt Shedd, brought sportfishing to Cabo San Lucas rich sportfishing traditions were emerging from Catalina Island, which influenced fishing all over the world. The story of sportfishing is a fascinating and important one that needs to be fully told. I am thrilled that Michael is looking to tell our story in his unique visually exciting style.”

Bill Shedd, Chairman/CEO, American Fishing Tackle Company

“Southern California has a rich and unique history, from the founding of Avalon Tuna Club in 1898 to the innovation of kite fishing, and the vast long-range tuna fleet. Nobody captures that history and spirit better than Michael Fowlkes. He brings all of it to life in this new series, with images and footage spanning over a hundred years and interviews with the real pioneers. Whether you are an angler or a history buff you will love every minute of this passionate project.”               

Dave Pfeiffer, President, Shimano America

"Michael Fowlkes has been a staple in our industry since my childhood, and I’m thrilled that he’s capturing the history of sportfishing with his unique style as a filmmaker. There is no one more qualified to tell this great story.”

Bill DePriest, Publisher/Editor Pacific Coast Sportfishing Magazine

“For more than a century, sportfishing in Southern California has been a passion and a way of life for millions of anglers, providing immeasurable joy and memorable experiences to those lucky enough to spend time pursuing it. This film will serve as significant historical piece to be cherished by those who have been involved as well as those who have watched from afar.”               

Doug Kern, Co-Owner Fisherman’s Landing & Fisherman’s Landing Tackle

PURCHASE A GIFT CARD

Buy a gift card for friends and family that can be redeemed for a membership with The History of Sportfishing.

Shop Gift Cards