Producer/Director Michael Fowlkes has released The History of Sportfishing, a landmark documentary series showcasing the evolution of fishing from an act of survival into the sport it is today.
Fowlkes is best known for his award-winning Inside Sportfishing television series that ran for 27 years and became the highest rated, longest running fishing show in the history of Fox Sports West. Recognized with 27 International Telly Awards for broadcast excellence, as well as being voted Best Fishing Show of the Year by the Outdoor Writers Association of America. In addition to his contemporary action, he also produced 24 feature films on the sport, with several of those dedicated to its history, such as the classic, A Tribute to Tuna.
During a recent interview, Fowlkes said, “For over a decade I’ve envisioned telling the story of how big game fishing got started in an action-driven documentary-style format. I imagined The Endless Summer meets Ken Burns for sportfishing”. Four years ago, he started down that path producing The History of Sportfishing.
“My earliest memories are of fishing with family. Over the years it wove itself into every part of my life,” Fowlkes said. “To have an opportunity to give something back to this sport at this point in my life has truly been a privilege and an honor. The film is joyous celebration the sport, preserving its history and helping to secure its future for generations to come.”
Noted bass fishing historian, Dr. Terry Battisti, of the Bass Fishing Archives, wrote the two chapters on bass fishing. “Michael approached me two years ago about writing on the bass fishing chapters,” Dr. Battisti said. “I jumped at the chance to work with one of my heroes in fishing. Michael has been part of sportfishing for as long as I can remember. Everything he produces is exceptional. To have this opportunity to work with him and tell the story of bass fishing was an opportunity of a lifetime.”
The stories are told using a blend of vintage and modern photographs and never before seen archival film footage paired with spectacular contemporary action. It gives equal homage to all disciplines of the sport from the first big game action to early growth of the charter industry, the worldwide phenomenon of competitive bass fishing, fly fishing in salt waters and much more, all while covering the individuals and inventions that helped transform sportfishing into what it is today. His work also focuses throughout the series on the angler’s role in conservation and passing on the legacy of responsible fishing practices to our children. A landmark film destined to be around for generations to come.
To view or purchase your access to the film, please click this link here: https://watch.thehistoryofsportfishing.com/?via=ccacalifornia
By clicking on this link, 10% of the proceeds will be donated back to CCA California.
