Today we’d like to introduce you to Capt. Mike Illig.
Hi Capt. Mike, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I grew up fishing with my father and was hooked on saltwater fishing when I caught a snook from the beach at Sanibel Island while visiting my grandparents. I started guiding and building the business my senior year in college, knowing that 2008 would be challenging for finding employment. I gained experience and hours for my captain’s license sailing boats to the Caribbean and working on the water taxi in downtown Charleston. I saved for several years to purchase my dream boat to take larger groups and safely venture offshore.
Let’s dig deeper into the story – has it been an easy path, and if not, what challenges have you overcome?
Fishing for a living requires spending most days on the water or preparing for the next trip. There is much behind-the-scenes work between trips and during bad weather days. Saltwater is a harsh environment for equipment, so there is always maintenance to keep the boat and gear running smoothly. The most significant transition along the way has been starting a family and supporting them through my business.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might need to become more familiar with what you do, what can you tell them about what you do?
My whole life has been spent in or near the water. As a toddler, I slid into the water (thankfully under my parent’s supervision) and sank to the bottom of the pool, trying to swim. I still remember it. Later in life, I swam 120 feet deep in the ocean and backed up on a single breath hold. Today, I enjoy fishing with the change of seasons for the best experience, whether far out in the ocean or shallow water on the flats. Owning 2 different boats for my business has been great for Charleston’s many different fishing styles.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
Patience. I am reasonably patient, and that has served me well in teaching people to fish. I remember the excitement of catching my first redfish and using my patience to help people catch theirs. I take people with different skill levels and ages, from 2-90 years old, so taking care of people is a top priority. Before starting my business, many years of customer service experience have been beneficial.
Pricing:
- Trips start at $300 and go up to $2500
- Most trips are around $550-1200
- Group size and trip duration determine cost
- Inshore or ocean trips have different rates
Contact Info:
- Website: www.AvidAngling.com
- Instagram: @AvidAngling
- Facebook: Avid Angling Fishing Charters
