Grade 11 learner from Walvis Bay Private High School Christiano Bampton is quickly making a name for himself in the world of angling. 

He recently participated in the prestigious Offshore Angling Competition, held at the breathtaking beach location of Simon Se Gat in Henties Bay. 

This was his first time taking part in such a significant event. 

 He has already expressed excitement about making this a regular occurrence in his fishing career. 

This publication sat down with this budding angler to learn more about his journey into the sport, and what fuels his passion.

When asked about his family, the 17-year-old described a tight-knit household of four. 

“My father, mother, sister and I make up our family,” he shared. 

His journey into fishing began at a young age, with his father playing a crucial role in introducing him to the sport. 

“My dad taught me how to fish when I was about six years old,” he recalled.

“We used to go fishing together a lot. That sparked my love for it. The more we fished, the more I became hooked.

“My favourite type of fishing is surf fishing,” he enthused. 

“I love the adrenaline that rushes through my body when a fish bites. It’s one of the best feelings, in my opinion,” he said. 

The challenge of catching fish in the surf and the excitement that comes with it is something he never tires of.

When reflecting on his most memorable fishing moments, one catch stands out above the rest. 

“The most memorable catch I’ve had was when I caught my biggest kob,” he said with a hint of pride in his voice. 

It is a milestone in any angler’s career.

 For him, it is a reminder of the rewarding nature of the sport.

Fishing, however, is not always smooth- sailing. 

Like many anglers, he faces days when the fish simply do not bite. 

“There are days when no fish seem to want to bite. That can be frustrating,” he admitted.

“But in fishing, patience is key. You have to keep working at it. Eventually, the fish will come,” he said. 

When it comes to equipment, he is meticulous in selecting the right gear for each fishing session. 

“For bigger sharks, I use a 14 000-twin power reel and a number 8 Horizon rod,” he noted.

“For smaller sharks, I prefer the Stella 10 000 reel, paired with a number 7 Horizon rod,” he added.

 His attention to detail and commitment to using the best gear show his dedication to the sport.

Although fishing can be a solitary sport, he enjoys sharing the experience with others. 

“I prefer fishing with my friends,” he said, smiling. 

“We can joke around, enjoy one another’s company, and share the excitement when
we catch something,” he said. 

When asked what advice he would give to someone just starting out in fishing, his response is simple, yet profound.

“Have patience,” he said. 

He believes that patience is essential for success, whether one is learning the ropes or refining skills.

Over the years, he has honed his skills and techniques, especially when it comes to knot-tying. 

“I’ve mastered knots that I didn’t even know existed. My fishing skills have really improved because of that,” he said. 

The continuous learning process is something he takes seriously, always striving to become better with every fishing trip.

For him, fishing is more than just a sport. It is a way to escape and connect with nature. 

“What I enjoy most about fishing is the outdoors,” he stated. 

“It allows me to forget about life’s challenges, and clear my mind. It’s like a reset for the soul,” he added.

Looking to the future, he has big aspirations in the world of fishing.

 He also wants to pursue studies to become a propeller technician. 

-lmupetami@nepc.com.na