I'm often asked why I'm interested in freshwater fish like bass and walleye. Well, the freshwater world has never had an ambassador in the same way the oceans had Jacques Cousteau. Perhaps, all of us who spend time in lakes can collectively be some sort of equivalent to that.
I think there’s always room for more good photographers, and I think interest in freshwater fish will continue. I’d encourage beginners to learn about their subjects. Become an expert on the life and behavior of these fish. Become a steward of their habitat. Whether it's a musky, a largemouth bass or a bluegill, think of yourself as a PR person for that particular fish. If you do this, you’ll show them in the best light, you’ll be mindful of disturbing them, and your work will automatically show these creatures at their most magnificent. Don’t sell pictures or videos. Instead, fall in love with your subjects and sell that love! And instead of exploiting them for personal profit, you’ll become partners with them in calling attention to their inherent beauty and value in the ecosystem, and the special problems each one of them face in an increasingly crowded world.
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