Story by Stephanie Hemphill-Pellerin | Photos by Tanner & Travis Lyons
Growing up in East Texas on Sam Rayburn Reservoir was an incredible experience. My dad and Pawpaw took my brother and I fishing every weekend, turning our outings into friendly competitions which sparked my desire to compete. I was never told that fishing was a man’s sport. Instead, I was encouraged to embrace it fully.
When I went to college, I was eager to earn my degree, but even more eager to skip classes to fish. Ultimately, my college journey was short-lived as I prioritized my passion for fishing over a college classroom.
Fast forward to 2021, when I first saw the NPFL on TV. My husband was watching the Top 10, and it instantly caught my attention as I asked, “What are you watching?” and he replied, “It’s the National Professional Fishing League.”
I was shocked—I had never heard of this tournament league before! After watching for a while, I commented, “I want to fish with them one day.”
At that moment, I never imagined it could happen.
In late 2022, I decided to apply to the NPFL for the 2023 season, unsure if I would be accepted. Throughout my fishing career, I had encountered many individuals who were not supportive of a woman competing against men. I could never understand why, and it often hurt more than I’d like to admit. While many people advocate for gender equality in fishing, there are still those who cling to the notion that it’s a man’s sport.
During my interview process, I made it clear that I didn’t want any media attention unless I had earned it. Just because I’m a woman doesn’t mean I need special treatment. The NPFL respected my request. My first season with the NPFL was a whirlwind of experiences. I struggled at times, faced emergency knee surgery in the middle of the season and even achieved a top 10 finish. Through it all, I realized something important: my peers treated me with respect. They have not only supported me but have also become friends and in some cases, my extended family.
The NPFL doesn’t see me as a female angler; they see me as a fisherman. I’ve been asked countless times whether the guys are rude or if I’m treated differently by the league. The honest answer is “No!”
Throughout my journey, the NPFL has never made me feel like I didn’t belong or treated me any differently than my male counterparts. Being female doesn’t make me special. We don’t need to have big muscles to fish. What we need are smarts, endurance, and patience—qualities that many women possess in abundance.
Women can do everything on the water—except stand up and pee! It’s important to stop thinking of ourselves as special simply because we are women. We must prove ourselves just like everyone else. I am incredibly grateful the NPFL welcomed me into their community.
There is no rulebook for what a career in fishing should look like, but I can assure you that no matter what your gender, race, or beliefs, anything is possible. Ignore the outside noise and be yourself. It may seem daunting at first, wondering what others will say, but over time, it becomes easier. Breaking barriers isn’t for the faint-hearted; it’s for those who want to pave a smoother path for others.
The reason I chose the NPFL is multifaceted. First and foremost, their integrity in the sport is commendable. They have provided opportunities for individuals to compete at a high level, and I appreciate their commitment to inclusivity.
As the 2025 season approaches, I am grateful for the opportunities which have come my way.
I want everyone to know that you can live your dreams, but those dreams don’t come without challenges. As anglers, we must persevere through the tough times.
A heartfelt thank you to the National Professional Fishing League for believing and taking a chance on me. Thank you to my dad for keeping me on the water. You never thought my dreams were silly and have always supported them wholeheartedly. And to my husband—life is truly unpredictable. Thank you for your unwavering support!
Stephanie Hemphill-Pellerin – Angler Profile
