atollas field tester

zack hearn

SUP & FLY ANGLER | Orlando, FL

@_zackhearnfishing_

 

 
 

Zack Hearn is a pest control technician during the week but a serious angler on the weekends. He was born and raised in Orlando, Florida where he still currently resides. He was first introduced to fishing as a young child and boy did he run with it. Whether it was bass, bluegill, tarpon or redfish, if it had gills he wanted to catch it. He’s been taking fishing seriously for about 5 years now. He does it because he loves it, simply put. The birds, the otters, the gators, or anything else nature brings across his path on the water is what truly makes the experience. He would say however, his biggest motivator is redfish. No matter how many he sees, hook, or hold, size-able or not, he can’t get enough of them. Zack has learned many life lessons through chasing those clumsy fish, so much that he’d say it’s played a part in becoming the person he is today. Patience, hard work, and not giving up are all values that correspond to how he goes about his life.

Q: How did you first get into SUP fishing and fly fishing?

A: Ever since I was a toddler, I was infatuated with wildlife, especially fish. My dad and uncles would always find time to take me out on the water, and it didn’t take long for me to fall in love with the sport of fishing. Although I grew up on boats, I’ve only recently acquired my own. After I picked up saltwater flats fishing in my final years of high school, I needed water access, which led me to discovering how well paddle boards compliment my fishing style and I haven’t looked back since.

Q: What does the water mean to you?

A: The water means everything to me. Time on the water is time spent with God, family, and good buddies. No matter what life has thrown at me, the water has always called my name and provided peace of mind.

Q: What was your all-time favorite day on the water?

A: Although I can think of many trips that qualify, the one day that sticks out the most in my memory was the day I caught my first sizable tarpon on fly. It was a beautiful summer day, the conditions where right, and the fish were where they were supposed to be. With an ounce of luck, I got silver king to take a chance on my fly. After 45 minutes, I had her to hand and the rest is history.

Q: How important are your sunglasses in your sport?

A: My glasses are my lifeline. With out them, this sight-fishing game would not be possible.

Q: Have you ever lost your sunglasses on the water?

A: I have never, and don’t think I ever will.

Q: How have our floating keepers be performing in the field?

A: Shortly put, flawless. They serve their purpose very well. Losing my glasses is no longer a possibility.

Q: What stands out about our keepers?

A: From looks to functionality, everything about them is original. I also can’t even tell they’re there.

Q: What’s going in in your world at the moment, and what does the future have in store?

A: From growth in both my work and personal life, to squeezing in time on the water whenever I can, I’m very busy. Not a day goes by where I’m not out of bed by 6 AM. My future hopefully holds a career in the fishing industry, as that’s what I’m truly passionate about. I would really love to become a guide one day.