Through filming our new tv series, Instill the Catch, I’ve recently had the privilege of getting to know a few more families in the world that, similar to us Izumi’s, are managing to keep the passion of fishing and being on the water, alive and well within multiple generations.

It has been so warming to my heart to witness these families pass down life lessons through life on the water. I know how valuable it is to learn from a life lived through the lens of nature. It teaches us patience, grit, persistence, and the ability to seek adventure. Taking full advantage of this beautiful world give us so much, and I hope to pass that appreciation down to my children.

A few inspiring families I’ve had the privilege of meeting during our Instill the Catch travels include:

John and Jessica from River City Marine from Abbotsford and Vancouver, British Columbia

This dad and daughter dynamo run their boat dealership together. I see so many parallels between my dad and I, as they have that wining combo of “old school” thought and “new school” goals. Jessica and her siblings grew up on the water with their parents, watching them grow the business and always being encouraged to take part in both the leisure aspect of boating and the management side of owning a dealership. They manage to keep that father daughter relationship intact while still respecting one another as business partners and I think the fact that their business revolves around the water, helps achieve that balance.

Scott and Alaina from Bay of Quinte Charters in Picton, Ontario

Scott grew up in Africa and has been fishing his whole life. His parents always rooted them in homes by the water so it’s no surprise that Scott and his wife have done the same for their children. They live and work on the lake, and although Alaina went through a period where she was nervous of the big waves, she now helps her dad as his mate! It was fun to witness her learn from her dad this summer and also teach Yale some tricks of the trade (walleye and sheephead fishing in this instance). She’s a teenager, so I’m looking forward to following her path in life both on and off the water.

Octavio and Moses from Tavo Tours in Tambor, Costa Rica

My dad has been fishing with Octavio for about 12 years now, and I have been fishing with him for at least four. Octavio is the kind of guy you want to be around, with an infectious smile and laugh and overall bright energy. He has four kids and one of his middle children, Moses, has been learning from him on the boat for many years. We have had the pleasure of seeing him grow over the years to pure observer to hands-on mate. He is doing everything from helping prepare clients lunches to operating the boats and transporting clients. Their home is a tropical oasis and I can’t help but think of how lucky Moses is to be learning in such a captivating and nature filled environment.

In addition to nature and fishing being keys to success and fulfillment in life, I also have noticed that a solid sense of community helps. I’m so grateful to have been welcomed into these various tight-knit communities. I encourage everyone to seek these communities and explore the nature available to you, whether at your home base, or on your travels. You, and your kids, will be so much richer for it.