I got to spend some time fishing with Captain Savio Mizzi off Montauk, and I keep coming back to the analogy that it was a bit like opening presents on Christmas morning when at times it’s just as much fun watching someone tear through the wrapping paper as opening a gift yourself. Getting caught up in Savio’s “love of all things fishing” was, quite frankly, often as much fun as fishing myself. I was there though to catch some stripers, and, to this end, the man is a tireless fisherman. This Captain’s knowledge of the area, his connection with the water, and his in depth understanding of his client’s needs, however, is what makes him a great guide. My experience as an angler is a bit different than most others. I am a female who is fairly new to the sport, although I’ve had the great fortune to have fished for a number of different species in some fairly diverse regions. During the hours we spent on the water, SAvio made me feel like there were no questions “too dumb” to ask, while at the same time challenging me to up my game as an angler.
Oh, and did I mention that he somehow knows where all the fish are hiding? At one point we were on a pretty wild bite, with birds everywhere. Then the birds left and so did all the other guides. Savio’s boat didn’t budge.
Me: “There’s nothing on the screen.”
Savio: “Nope, nothing here. Drop your line.”
Me: (Almost instantly) “I’m in!”
Savio: “No, nothing here.” (smiling with enjoyment as he watched me unwrap the present this time).
