PSA President Karey Small on Derby Fishing, Overcoming Failure & Building Community

Hooked on Fishing: Karey Small's Inspiring Journey

In the world of fishing, where patience, skill, and a bit of luck often determine success, Karey Small stands out as a beacon of inspiration. Her journey from a complete novice to a respected figure in the fishing community is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the enduring allure of the sport. Keep reading and don't miss her story!

About Karey Small

Karey Small's background in fishing is interesting. She grew up in the Pacific Northwest and started fishing only six years ago when she met her husband, Darren. Despite not having a fishing background, she quickly became interested in the sport. As she became more involved in the fishing community, her passion for the sport grew and her copetitive side was also fueled with opportunities. Nowadays, Karey and her husband enjoy spending time outdoors and fishing together has become a way for them to bond and connect with each other.

A Newfound Love

Karey's introduction to fishing was a serendipitous one, sparked by her relationship with her now-husband, Darren. As a lifelong angler, Darren naturally shared his passion with Karey, who initially joined him on fishing trips simply to accompany him and spend time together. However, as she spent more time on the water, Karey discovered a deep-rooted love for the sport that would soon become an integral part of her life.

Despite her lack of experience, Karey quickly embraced the challenges and intricacies of fishing. She eagerly learned from Darren, asking countless questions and observing his techniques. With a hands-on approach and a willingness to learn from her mistakes, Karey rapidly developed her skills and knowledge of the sport.

The Importance of Mentorship

One of the key factors in Karey's development as a skilled angler was the mentorship she received from other members of the fishing community. By seeking guidance and advice from experienced anglers, Karey was able to learn valuable tips and techniques that helped her improve her fishing abilities. She emphasizes the vital role of effective communication, both with fishing partners and within the fishing community to have better experiences in and out of the water.

Joining the Community

As Karey's passion for fishing grew, she became more involved in the local fishing community. She joined fishing clubs, participated in derbies, and connected with like-minded individuals who shared her love for the sport. Karey highlights how vital it is to building strong relationships within the fishing community and the support it can provide to people with little to no experience in fishing. These connections not only provided her with valuable information and support but also helped her to develop a strong sense of belonging.

Overcoming Fears and Doubts

Throughout her journey, Karey faced numerous challenges and uncertainties. She overcame her fear of failure, learned to embrace mistakes as opportunities for growth, and developed a resilience that allowed her to persevere through setbacks. No matter how hard things became for her, she decided to keep going and continue this journey. As such, her determination to succeed and her positive attitude were instrumental in her development as a skilled angler but also to become a better partner, friend, and overal person to those around her.

The Healing Power of Fishing

Now, beyond the thrill of catching fish and the camaraderie of the fishing community, Karey discovered the profound healing power of the sport. Fishing provided her with a much-needed escape from the stresses of daily life, allowing her to connect with nature and find peace and tranquility. So she emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of spending time in nature and the positive impact it can have on mental and emotional well-being for everyone who needs it.

Inspiring Others

Karey's passion for fishing extends beyond her own personal enjoyment. She is committed to inspiring others, especially women, to explore the sport and discover its many benefits. Her involvement in Wake for Warriors and other initiatives shows her commitment to using her passion for fishing to help others, particularly veterans, and give back to the fishing community. Through her involvement in various fishing organizations and her own personal experiences, Karey has become a role model for aspiring anglers.

Conclusion

Karey Small's journey from a novice angler to a respected leader in the fishing community is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the enduring allure of the sport. Her story serves as an inspiration to anyone who dreams of pursuing their passions, overcoming challenges, and finding fulfillment in life. As she continues to make waves in the fishing world, Karey's legacy will undoubtedly inspire countless others to cast a line and discover the joy of fishing for themselves.