In the early nineties, running 10 to 12 trips to the Gulfstream was not unusual. Many times, the captains would have to change oil while offshore. There was no time to change it while at the dock. This was a time when fishing was great, and business was even greater. Both captains had phenomenal stories about trips that would have to end early due to having filled all the fish boxes with Grouper or Yellow Fin Tuna after just 2 to 3 hours. On another trip when fishing for Grouper after only a few hours, Captain Carl announced to his charter customers, "Out of ice, gotta go home." And home they went…with smiles on their faces. These same results were repeated over the next three trips in a row. It was in those days that Carolina Beach Charter Fishing was in its hay day. The town was growing in popularity, and the charter fleet was a big tourist draw, a time when Captain Freddy and Captain Carl were at their peak.
Captain Carl Snow
However, around 2006, fishing entered a decline both inshore and offshore that's still being felt today. Fishing regulations have increased, combined with skyrocketing fuel prices, has had an impact. But still, they fished. Never giving up on the sport they love. The same is true with Captain Lee Parsons and his passion for inshore fishing. All three of these gentlemen will always have a special place in my heart and most of all, my respect. Their contribution to saltwater fishing on the North Carolina coast is invaluable. On the way home, I thought about how far saltwater fishing had come in their lifetime. We think today about all the great new lures and equipment that are available for today's fishing. Things like sideband sonar, with a chip that provides thousands of square miles of ocean details showing your location, and interacting with the software you have. The great anglers before us navigated with a watch and compass only, and they caught more fish than anglers today. They did it due to their determination and skill. Remarkably enough, these three fishing pioneers are still doing it today. They may have slowed down a step or two, but I wouldn't try to out fish them.
This weekend, I think I may take my grandson out to that old dock on the ICW where I used to fish and watch the charter boats head out. If we're lucky we'll get to see Captain Carl Snow and Captain Freddy Holland standing proudly on the flybridge of a sport fishing boat heading out for another day of fishing. Now that's a sight to remember!
Thanks to Captain Lee Parsons for making this story happen. You’re a true friend to many!
Freddy Holland Lee Parsons Carl Snow
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