Women Who Fish ~ Volume Two
Meet the women featured in this blog …
Jump to interview:
Niki | Mary | Mikaela | Nina | Kymmy
Women Who Fish returns for Volume Two, bringing together five women from different backgrounds, locations, and stages of their fishing journey.
Each story is unique. Some have grown up on the water, others have found fishing later in life, but all share a common thread a genuine love for time outdoors and the experiences that come with it.
This series is about more than just fishing. It is about confidence, connection, resilience, and the many different paths that lead women to the water.
NIKI STICKLEN
Niki is a passionate freshwater angler based in South East Queensland, balancing family life, business, and time on the water. From early memories of fishing with her family using handlines and collecting bait with her Nan, to chasing barramundi on lures with her husband, fishing has always been part of her story.
Today, Niki’s love for fishing extends beyond the catch. She is proudly sponsored by Hot Bite, a dedicated committee member for Suntag, and actively contributes to conservation through fish tagging and participation in fingerling release programs. Whether she’s competing as a co-angler, sharing knowledge, or simply enjoying time outdoors, Niki brings passion, persistence, and purpose to everything she does on the water. 💛
1. Tell us a little about yourself and how fishing became a part of your life.
I’m a married mum of two based in Southeast Queensland. I work in two retail stores and also run a pest control business with my husband.
I have fond memories of fishing from early childhood. Chasing bread and butter species land based using a homemade handline, collecting pipis and shucking oysters with Nan, and watching Dad fish off the rocks with his Alvey. I loved it all.
My husband encouraged me to get my boat licence 21 years ago and I haven’t looked back since. Whether it’s from the bank, a kayak, or the boat, I’m always keen for a fish. Freshwater lure fishing is where it’s at for me.
2. What does fishing give you beyond just catching fish?
As someone who loves nature and the outdoors, fishing gives me quality time to recharge with my husband, family, and friends.
I’ve met some incredible people through fishing, many of whom have become close friends. Tagging fish for Suntag gives me a real sense of purpose, contributing to data collection for the future of fishing. It’s incredibly rewarding receiving updates on a fish I’ve tagged, and even more so when I recatch one myself.
Being involved in fingerling releases has also been a really meaningful way to give back to the waterways we love.
3. What’s one moment on the water that really stands out for you?
My first barra. It took me two trips to finally land one, and all those practice casts finally paid off.
Catching it on a jerkbait, which was still quite new to me at the time, made it even more special. That moment marked the beginning of a bit of an obsession.
4. Have you faced any challenges as a woman in fishing, and how did you handle them?
Not so much on the water, but working in a fishing store has had its challenges at times.
I try to approach every situation with a positive and open mindset. Negative energy just drains me, so I prefer to move on quickly and focus on the positives.
“Tagging fish gives me a real sense of purpose and connection to the future of fishing.”
5. What’s something fishing has taught you about yourself?
Fishing has taught me that I’m patient, persistent, and ambitious.
It’s also given me the confidence to step outside my comfort zone, like guest speaking on the Australian Lure Fishing Podcast with Doc Lures, and fishing as a co-angler in multiple tournaments including the ABT and Bass Electric Tour.
6. Do you have a favourite species, style of fishing, or place to fish? Why?
Definitely freshwater fishing for barra with lures.
There’s so much planning that goes into these trips for my husband and I, and I wish we could do it more often. From the anticipation of the bite to the arm-burning fight, the acrobatics, and that screaming drag, it’s just the ultimate thrill.
I don’t think I’ll ever find another species that tops it.
7. What role do community groups play in the future of women’s fishing?
They help create visibility and encourage more women to get involved.
They’re also a great space for like-minded women to connect, share experiences, and support each other.
8. For any woman thinking about starting to fish, what piece of advice would you give her?
Grab a mate and book a charter.
Whether you’re learning the basics or fine-tuning your skills, there’s so much to gain from a great charter operator. Turn one day into day one.
Niki’s journey is a great reminder of how fishing can bring together passion, community, and purpose.
I hope you’ve loved getting to know her.
Kymmy 💛
MARY REICHARD
Mary is one half of the well-known “Will and Mary Outdoors” duo, sharing their fishing and outdoor lifestyle with a large and highly engaged audience across Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. What started as a love for the outdoors has grown into a platform that captures real moments on the water, from remote reef missions to everyday adventures.
Based in North Queensland, Mary’s journey into fishing quickly became more than a hobby. It became a way of life. Behind the content is a woman who values the simple things, time on the water, the thrill of the chase, and the chance to disconnect from the noise of everyday life. Through her experiences, Mary continues to inspire others to get outside, slow down, and enjoy the journey that fishing offers.
1. Tell us a little about yourself and how fishing became part of your life.
I’ve always been drawn to the outdoors from a young age, growing up on a property where I spent most of my time horse riding and water skiing. After finishing school, I made the move to North Queensland and it didn’t take long to realise that fishing wasn’t just a hobby. It had become my way of life.
2. What does fishing give you beyond just catching fish?
Fishing gives me the chance to disconnect from the busy lifestyle we live. As humans, and especially as women, we often forget to slow down. Fishing has forced me to do just that.
Those days standing on the front deck of the boat, cruising through the reefs, are when I feel most recharged. My favourite moments are heading offshore, losing all phone service, and it’s just my husband and I, bantering with nothing but open water around us. Starlink has slightly ruined that, but we make sure to only connect it at night once anchored to check the weather.
3. What’s one moment on the water that really stands out for you?
There’s no single moment, but rather a collection of memories over the years.
It’s the days spent working out a new species, the adrenaline of a surface strike from a barra or GT, and the solitude of leaving the world behind to spend days out on the Great Barrier Reef. Even the tougher days, when the weather turns unexpectedly and you’re grateful to make it back to the harbour, are part of what makes it so memorable.
4. Have you faced any challenges as a woman in fishing, and how did you navigate them?
I personally haven’t faced many challenges. I think surrounding yourself from the beginning with people who encourage and support you is key, not just in fishing, but in life.
Anytime I’ve walked into a local tackle store, I’ve found the teams welcoming and more than happy to help, which makes a big difference when you’re learning and growing in the sport.
“Some of the best days are the ones where you leave the world behind and it’s just open water and good company.”
5. What’s something fishing has taught you about yourself?
Fishing has taught me the true value of patience. Not every trip goes to plan, and that’s part of the beauty of it. After all, it is called fishing, not catching.
6. Do you have a favourite species, style of fishing, or place to fish? Why?
Slow pitch jigging for red emperor would have to be a favourite. These fish hit different.
I was also lucky enough to travel to Brazil recently to fish for peacock bass, and I’ll admit, they stole my heart. As far as freshwater species go, they hit like a GT and are arguably some of the most stunning fish you’ll ever see.
7. What role do community groups play in the future of women’s fishing?
Community groups are incredibly important. They create welcoming spaces where women can build confidence, learn new skills, and connect with others who share the same passion.
I also think it’s important not to assume that men in the industry won’t help. There is a lot of support out there if you seek it. Events and online resources, like those offered by Daiwa Australia through initiatives such as Reel Connections, along with blogs and vlogs, are great ways to keep learning. I’d also encourage anglers of all levels to attend AFTA on the public day in Brisbane. It’s a great opportunity to speak with different companies and learn more about products and techniques.
8. For any woman thinking about starting to fish, what piece of advice would you give her?
It’s not all about the fish. Enjoy being outside in the fresh air with your mates, away from your phones and devices.
Also remember that what you see online is often just the highlight reel. Real results come from passion, time on the water, and consistency.
Mary’s story is a great reminder of how fishing can bring adventure, perspective, and a real sense of escape from the everyday.
I hope you’ve loved getting to know her.
Kymmy 💛
MIKAELA GALAVIN
Mikaela is a passionate land-based angler from Bribie Island, Qld whose love for fishing has grown quickly into something much deeper.
What started as tagging along with her partner has turned into a genuine obsession, with fishing now playing a powerful role in her life. For Mikaela, it is not just about the catch. It is about calm, challenge, and finding confidence in her own ability on the water.
1. Tell us a little about yourself and where fishing fits into your life right now
Hi, I’m Mikaela, I’m 25 and I’ve always loved the outdoors, whether that was horses or sport. Fishing came into my life about two years ago when I met my partner, Allan.
I started out just watching him, picking up little bits here and there, then gave it a go myself. I fell in love with it straight away. Now I can honestly say I’m obsessed and wouldn’t know what I’d do without it.
2. What does fishing give you beyond just catching fish?
Fishing gives me both a thrill and a sense of calm. Being on the autism spectrum, it really helps ease my anxiety and has become a special interest for me.
I love the challenge that every session brings and the way it keeps me focused and present.
3. What’s one moment on the water that really stands out for you?
Catching my second barra will always stand out. It was 83cm and I was actually targeting jacks at the time.
I was using 20lb with a 1/0 circle hook in a spot I didn’t expect barra to be holding on Bribie Island. It was such a surprise and an unforgettable fight.
4. Have you faced any challenges as a woman in fishing, and how did you navigate them?
I’ve been really lucky so far and haven’t faced many challenges. I’ve had great support from both women and men.
My family and friends are always encouraging, and Allan is my biggest supporter. Every trip he’s hoping I land the biggest fish, which makes it even more special.
“Fishing gives me a thrill, but it also brings a sense of calm that helps me reset and stay present.”
5. What has fishing taught you about yourself?
Fishing has taught me patience and that effort pays off.
It has also shown me that even in a male dominated space, I can do anything I put my mind to. From tying my own knots to landing big fish, I feel most empowered when I’m fishing.
6. Do you have a favourite species, style, or place to fish? Why?
Barramundi and mulloway are my favourites so far, but my dream catch is a mahi mahi.
I mostly fish land-based and love lure fishing. That hit on a lure is the best feeling. Bribie Island will always be my favourite place. Catching fish at home just hits different.
7. What role do community groups play in the future of women’s fishing?
Community groups are so important. They show women how supportive this space can be and encourage more to get involved.
They help build confidence and remind women that they absolutely belong in fishing.
8. For any woman thinking about starting, what advice would you give?
Reach out, join groups, and learn from others. Blogs like this are a great place to start.
Most importantly, just give it a go. You will get hooked like I did. Everyone starts somewhere and I’m still learning every time I head out.
Mikaela’s journey is a beautiful reminder that everyone starts somewhere. With the right support and a willingness to give it a go, confidence grows quickly on the water.
I hope you’ve loved getting to know her.
Kymmy 💛
NINA KAYE
Nina’s story is one that truly begins on the water.
Raised on a yacht and introduced to fishing from her earliest years, it wasn’t just a pastime it was part of everyday life. Fishing wasn’t about chasing a hobby or ticking off a species list. It was about connection, survival, and a deep respect for the outdoors.
Inspired by her dad and shaped by a lifestyle many only dream of, Nina has carried that passion with her into adulthood. These days, her love for fishing runs just as strong, driven by the thrill of the chase, the beauty of the species, and those unforgettable barra boofs that keep us all coming back for more.
1. Tell us a little about yourself and how fishing became part of your life.
I was brought up on a yacht with my parents for the first few years of my life, and I’m an only child. That lifestyle included a lot of fishing and adventuring. My dad was my biggest inspiration when it came to fishing.
Fishing for us wasn’t just for fun it was a necessity. We were eating fish four to five times a week, so it played a big role in our everyday life. Since then, I’ve always fished, just not to the extent that I do now.
2. What does fishing give you beyond just catching fish?
Fishing, for me, is all about the love of the outdoors and the thrill of the catch. There’s nothing quite like that moment when a fish hits especially that barra boof.
It’s the combination of excitement and being out in nature that keeps me coming back.
3. What’s one moment on the water that really stands out for you?
For me, it’s not just one moment it’s those repeated experiences of chasing barra and getting that surface strike. Every time it happens, it’s just as exciting as the first.
Those are the moments that really stick with you.
4. Have you faced any challenges as a woman in fishing, and how did you navigate them?
I haven’t really let any challenges affect me. I focus on what I love and just get out there and do it.
Fishing has always been something I’ve done for myself, and I’ve stayed true to that.
“I grew up fishing for food, not just for fun, and that’s something that’s always stayed with me.”
5. What’s something fishing has taught you about yourself?
Fishing has shown me how much I value the outdoors and the lifestyle that comes with it.
It’s also reinforced that this is something that’s always been part of me not just a phase or something I picked up later on.
6. Do you have a favourite species, style of fishing, or place to fish? Why?
Barramundi would have to be my favourite species. They’re an absolutely beautiful fish and, in my opinion, the ultimate sport fish to catch.
It’s even better when they hit a surface lure.
My favourite place to fish would be Princess Charlotte Bay. The fish there fight harder and have those beautiful silver bodies with big yellow tails.
7. What role do community groups play in the future of women’s fishing?
Community groups are really important for bringing more women into fishing and showing how supportive the space can be.
They help create opportunities and encourage more women to give it a go.
8. For any woman thinking about starting to fish, what piece of advice would you give her?
Just get out there and give it a go.
Fishing is something you learn by doing, and the more time you spend on the water, the more confident you’ll become. Don’t be afraid to start.
Nina’s story is a powerful reminder that for some, fishing isn’t just a hobby, it’s something woven into who they are from the very beginning. From life on the water to chasing barra today, that connection has never left her.
I hope you’ve loved getting to know her.
Kymmy 💛
KYMMY ADAMS
Kymmy is the founder of Lady Anglers Downunder, but more importantly, she is a woman whose life has been shaped by time on the water.
From childhood weekends spent fishing with her family to now leading a growing community of women in fishing, her journey is one of persistence, passion, and a deep connection to the outdoors. What started as something she grew up with has evolved into a lifestyle, and ultimately, a platform that celebrates and empowers women to find their place in fishing.
1. Tell us a little about yourself and how fishing became part of your life.
My name is Kymmy, and I’m the founder of Lady Anglers Downunder. Outside of that hat, I’m a Mum of four, a very proud “Ma” to four grandchildren, and partner to Chris.
I’ve fished for as long as I can remember. Every other weekend, I was out on the boat with Mum, Dad and my siblings. Our first stop was always to pump for yabbies, which to this day still feels like such a treat when I get the very rare chance to fish with Dad.
It wasn’t until the last decade that I really got serious about fishing though. My skills, knowledge and passion all levelled up when I was told, “if you want to fish with me, you’re doing everything yourself.”
And honestly, that’s where everything changed.
2. What does fishing give you beyond just catching fish?
Fishing gives me so much beyond the actual fish.
It allows me to experience incredible places, from highly secluded, crystal-clear waters at the end of gruelling treks to endless stretches of sandy beaches. It gives me a break from the chaos that can fill your head and a chance to reset.
It also gives me drive. The drive to learn new techniques, chase personal bests, and target species I’ve never caught before.
3. What’s one moment on the water that really stands out for you?
There have been a few, but if I had to choose one, it would be my PB Jungle Perch.
It was a 29km mission on foot through scrub, at times wading through water well above my waist. I was determined to land a solid fish, not just your average 20 to 35cm sooty or jungle perch, so I upsized my lure and threw a Rapala Precision Xtreme Pencil in Lime Frog.
The day started slow. Absolute crickets. Then it happened. My first fish of the day was a 45cm Jungle Perch.
For a long time, my goal had been to catch a “unicorn” JP over 40cm, so the elation was next level. It still makes me grin like an idiot thinking about it.
That memory more than makes up for the trek back to the car, which involved plenty of tears as I could barely walk after pushing my body through such a long and exhausting mission.
4. Have you faced any challenges as a woman in fishing, and how did you navigate them?
As a whole, not really. There have been a few moments along the way though.
I’ve had the odd comment from older blokes like, “That’s a pretty lure. Are you trying to catch a pretty fish?” Then I go on to outfish them, so jokes on them, I guess.
Tackle stores used to be another one. I’d walk in with Chris, ask the questions myself, and they’d direct the answers to him. Thankfully, that’s becoming far less common now.
One moment that really stood out was at AFTA 2025. A fellow lady angler and I were having a great, in-depth chat about fishing with a guy, and after a while he said, “This is so weird, having this kind of conversation with chicks.” It wasn’t meant in a bad way. It was more of a lightbulb moment for him.
And that’s the thing. Women in fishing are knowledgeable, capable, and completely self-sufficient. Sometimes people just need to see it to realise it.
“It’s taught me that I am a self sufficient woman who can get things done, both on and off the water.”
5. What’s something fishing has taught you about yourself?
It’s taught me that I am a self sufficient woman who can get things done.
From choosing the right gear, to rigging up, to cleaning a fish for the table, I’ve learnt to back myself every step of the way.
It’s also shown me that I’d make a pretty good cheerleader. I mean, why else would I have started LAD if I didn’t genuinely love celebrating other women’s achievements on the water.
6. Do you have a favourite species, style of fishing, or place to fish? Why?
This is actually a hard one.
I absolutely love our Aussie freshwater natives like sooties and jungle perch, mainly because of the insanely beautiful places they take you. Those tropical creek and gorge missions are something special.
At the same time, there’s nothing quite like being hooked up to a giant trevally or queenfish off the beach. They pack a serious punch and keep you on your toes.
If I had to pick a favourite place though, it would have to be tropical gorges.
7. What role do community groups play in the future of women’s fishing?
I feel community groups are essential.
Women come from all walks of life. Some were fortunate enough to grow up with fishing as part of their lives, while others missed out simply because it was seen as something “for the boys.”
For some, there can be deeper barriers as well. Past experiences can impact confidence and make it difficult to step into new spaces, especially if they don’t feel comfortable approaching men to learn.
That’s where community groups play such an important role. They create safe, supportive environments where women can learn, ask questions, build confidence, and feel like they truly belong on the water.
8. For any woman thinking about starting to fish, what piece of advice would you give her?
Just do it.
Find out what fish are in your local waters, then head to your local tackle store and get some guidance on the gear you need. Or, check out the LAD page. If you see a featured lady with a fish you’d love to catch, reach out and ask questions.
I’ve found that almost all women are more than happy to help another gal on her way. The LAD inbox is always open too. I don’t know it all, but I’m pretty darn cluey when it comes to fishing and always happy to chat.
Kymmy’s journey is a reflection of passion, persistence, and the power of backing yourself. From learning the hard way to building a community that lifts others up, her story shows just how far fishing can take you.
I hope you’ve loved getting to know her.
Final Words …
These stories are a powerful reminder that there is no single way to be a woman who fishes. Every journey is different, and every story matters.
If you have enjoyed getting to know the women featured in this series, take a moment to follow along with their adventures and support the incredible women shaping the future of fishing.
And if you have a story of your own, we would love to hear it. Volume Three is always on the horizon.
Kymmy 💛