This episode features Peter Jenkins, owner of the Saltwater Edge, in conversation with renowned fish artist Nick Mayer. They discuss Nick's journey from a young nature enthusiast to becoming one of the world's top fish portrait artists, his academic background in marine biology, and his various experiences and jobs in fisheries research around the globe. Nick shares insights into his art process, the importance of detail and observation, and his transition from traditional gallery sales to e-commerce. The discussion also covers the significance of fishing companions, maintaining an open mind for learning, and utilizing digital tools for fishing. Nick also highlights his latest book, 'Fish ABCs,' and his personal fishing bucket list, expressing a desire to catch a GT in the Seychelles.

00:00 Welcome to The Saltwater Edge Podcast
00:36 Spotlight on Nick Mayer: A Master of Fish Portraits
00:54 Nick Mayer's Journey: From Childhood Fascination to Renowned Artist
04:33 The Artistic Process and Passion Behind Nick Mayer's Work
21:00 Nick Mayer's Adventures and Inspirations in Fishing and Art
26:11 A Harrowing Tugboat Tale
27:12 From Near-Disaster to Artistic Inspiration
28:53 The Artistic Process: From Pencil to Watercolor
35:07 The Business of Art: Making It Accessible
38:55 Fishing: A Universal Connector
40:48 Art, Conservation, and the Digital Pivot
41:47 Fishing Tips, Resources, and a Dream Day
49:40 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

Today’s guest grew up fishing the small mountain streams near his Blue Ridge, Virginia home. As a youngster, he started a guiding service and, in the late 90s, opened Blue Ridge Fly Fishers in Roanoke, Virginia. He has worked for years to create patterns that solve angling problems. More than once, he has created “a platform” a design innovation so effective that dozens of “patterns” can then be created. Some of these can go head to head with the strike-generating action of conventional lures.

A decade ago, our guest returned to the river where he now owns and operates his guide service, specializing in float trips for musky, smallmouth bass, stripers, trout, and many other species.

In addition, he is the Southeastern Field Editor for Fly Fishermen. He is an advisor or brand ambassador for many of the industry’s top brands: Patagonia, Temple Fork Outfitters, Scientific Anglers, Costa and Renzetti

One of the things I appreciate the most about today's guest is his deep respect for the past and those who have helped him along the way. His passion for conservation also seems to grow at about the same pace as his son Tyler. It has been a pleasure working and traveling with him for the American Saltwater Guides Association.

Chris Aubut grew up in the very fishy Westport, MA. He spent most of his youth developing his boating and fishing skills with guidance from his father. Throughout his life, surfing in Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island consumed most of his time away from fishing. After he graduated from the Chapman School of Seamanship, he pursued a life on the water.

Over the past 13 years, Chris has guided hundreds of clients on successful fishing charters in Westport and the Florida Keys. In 2011, he again turned his passion into a business and started the Aubut Rod Company, informed by those years on the water. Since then, he has made hundreds of high-performing fishing rods for freshwater and saltwater anglers around the globe.