There is almost no getting around social media these days. Even if you’re one of the few holdouts who has managed to refrain from creating a profile, you can’t hide from the effects. From instant catch reports, epic billfish footage, and updates on the newest boats and gear to keyboard warriors shaming our industry, the internet is a melting pot of everyone’s opinions—for better or worse.
In many fisheries, being offshore used to be the ultimate cord-cutter, the cell signal being left behind with the sight of land. With new satellite technology and more boats taking on never-off-the-grid services such as Starlink, we’re now connected in some of the most remote places on Earth. It’s a big upgrade for safety but not so great for those looking to avoid distractions while on the troll.
To be clear, I’m not implying that social media or technological innovation is all a bad thing for the industry; I use these platforms like everyone else, and I’m currently working on a modern sportboat with satellite internet access. But there’s no doubt that it’s a far different fishing world than the one our parents and grandparents were afforded. There are times we might miss the simplicity and exclusivity of the non-digital dock talk, but social media is a place where your business can grow and where you can showcase yourself in whatever light you choose. After all, it can be whatever you want to make of it. The connected world we live in is