By Eric Braaten, Mack's Lure Pro Staff
Eric Braaten combines his professional expertise in fisheries biology with his passion for walleye fishing, making him a recognized authority on walleye techniques throughout the Pacific Northwest. Braaten fishes for walleye over 200 days per year and regularly contributes educational content on jigging tactics and tackle selection, bridging the gap between scientific fish management and practical angling knowledge.
A Lifelong Passion
Fishing is a passion for me. I never realized how much fishing introduced to me by my father when I was young would grow into a lifelong love. Over the years, as Dad found time, he showed me different types of fishing. Once my brothers and I were old enough, we were naturally drawn to the water whether lakes, ponds, creeks, rivers, or the ocean.
Dad taught us the basics, and from there, we learned the rest on our own. Along the way, I made friends and passed on what I learned.
Many family members shared this love of the outdoors; I feel lucky to have grandfathers, uncles, and cousins with whom I exchanged stories during holidays. Those moments of storytelling around the fire remain some of my fondest memories.
Growing into the Sport
As I grew older, fishing became a steady passion. I dove deeper into learning how to catch different species, gradually expanding my skills as I could afford new gear. It was a challenge I truly enjoyed.
I spent hours reading Bassmaster magazines to master bass fishing. I still vividly remember catching my first largemouth bass on a rubber frog it was so rewarding to figure it out and gain confidence. A few friends had rafts, canoes, or small boats we would drag down to the lake, which opened up an entirely new world for this obsession.
Adventures in Alaska
As I entered adulthood, I worked various jobs, including summers in Alaska at canneries and on tenders, spending long hours knee deep in salmon. Even after work, I’d fish from the bank or a skiff, eager to learn salmon fishing.
In Alaska, I discovered that fishing wasn’t just a hobby it was delicious! Gaining independence, I focused more on catching fish to eat, but still enjoyed chasing other species from time to time. I learned to cook and appreciate my catch on a whole new level.
Family, Boats, and Memories
Fishing also expanded my social circle. I got married, and my wife shared the same passion, introduced to her by her grandfather. There was something beautifully cyclical about it.
When our son was born in 2002, I looked forward to sharing fishing adventures with him. We bought a Lund boat for family time and fishing trips together. Over the years, weekends and summer vacations on the boat have become some of our best memories.
I always thought that Lund was our best investment but reflecting now, I realize the true value was time. Time spent together is what fills my heart as I cast my line today.
Fishing for Peace
For many of us, fishing is a small part of life, but it offers countless benefits especially for mental health. I don’t even need to catch anything to feel its impact: the sun’s warmth on my face, the wind across the water, the chill on my nose.
It calms me, refreshes me, and helps me keep my balance. I now share these experiences with others and still fish with my family whenever I can. Over the years, I’ve lost family, friends, and fishing buddies but being on the water reminds me of the best times I’ve ever had with them.
Passing It On
Nowadays, I pay it forward whenever I can because I know what fishing has done for me. God willing, I’ll be blessed with more time on the water.
If I had any advice, it would be this: Go fishing try it! Get outside and share it with others. You won’t regret it.
Fishing truly is life for me and it can be for you, too.
