The sport of fishing has seen a remarkable evolution in recent years, breaking away from traditional stereotypes. Historically perceived as a male-centric activity, modern times have witnessed a significant surge of female enthusiasts, challenging the status quo. One such individual is Kristin “Goody” Goodchild.
Originating from South Australia, Kristin has garnered attention in the fishing community. She is the director of RecFish SA. This organisation is a nationally recognised peak body for recreational fishing in South Australia. They undertake a range of projects, including fish stocking, habitat enhancement, and fishing clinics, all aimed at benefiting recreational fishers.
Kristin is also a member of the first-ever all-female team that competed in the Topwater Film Invitational. Kristin’s digital footprint highlighted the angling community from her region, suggesting a sense of regional pride and identity. Her presence and participation in events contribute to the broader narrative of increasing female representation in the sport.
“Gender doesn’t play a role in capability, and fish don’t discriminate!”
Kristin Goodchild
Lady Angler
Q&A with Kristin Goodchild
How did you first get started with fishing, and what drew you to this sport?
I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for the men in my life, my grandpa, my dad, and his mates. As a young girl, I’d wait patiently at the shack for ‘the boys’ to come back from a day’s fishing and diving. They’d lay their catch on the lawn out front for us kids (I am one of four girls), and we would examine every fish and crayfish, amazed. As we got older, we started getting involved, starting with ‘dabbing’ for Garfish at night, then half days out on the boat fishing for King George Whiting, Snook, and Snapper. At 14, I got my Scuba ticket so I could dive with Dad and catch crays. And then the Tuna run hit, and I think that’s the moment I fell in love with fishing. On a perfectly glassy day, we could see five different schools of Tuna.
After catching our limit, I jumped in the water with my GoPro (much to Dad’s dismay) and filmed the school circling the boat. We’d found the honey hole! To this day, I hold the record for the biggest Tuna caught for our strip of Shacks (and being the humble person that I am, love reminding all the blokes about it). It has always been about quality time with either family or friends, out on the water, regardless of what is or isn’t caught, the company always makes it worth it.
Can you share some of your favorite memories or experiences from your time as an angler?
A mate took me out fishing off of Coffin Bay. The forecast wasn’t great, and our hopes were actually quite low, thinking we wouldn’t be able to stay out long. But, would you believe it, the weatherman GOT IT WRONG! It was GLASS all day! After unsuccessfully trawling for Tuna (we could see them, they just weren’t biting), we went to a ‘secret spot’ (aren’t they all?) with the live bait we’d caught early that morning. We dropped them down and started catching Samson’s fish! I had never caught one before, and these fish were bigger than anything I’d ever pulled up.
After reeling in 5 from 40m (all tagged and released), my little twig arms were pretty dead, so we headed back in, but not before a little island sight-seeing. It would have been rude not to throw a lure out the back… and what do you know, a Kingfish took the bait (he pulled that one in while I drove the Boat away from the cliff we were heading towards). All in all, it was a great day, ticked on a new species, the biggest Sambo being $1.26. (My favorite fish to date).
Fishing has traditionally been seen as a male-dominated sport. What challenges, if any, have you faced as a female angler, and how have you overcome them?
Unfortunately, there is a small population out there who still believe in ‘gender norms’, and can’t or rather won’t support Women challenging them (which seems super silly to type, but its true!). Thankfully, I’ve only had a few keyboard warriors throw nasty comments my way. For the most part, I have experienced nothing but support. I love fishing with my Dad & his mates, especially as it doesn’t matter how capable you are, they still want to bait your hook and take your catch off – which means I get to spend more time with my line in the water, and they truly love making sure I and the girls have a great time when we are on the water (it’s actually quite cute). But they also make sure we have the skills to do it without them.
Are there any particular types of fish or fishing techniques that you are especially passionate about? Why?
Put me in a boat, on the ocean, with a rod. There is something magical about being surrounded by the big blue, it’s where I feel at home.
What do you find most rewarding about fishing, and how has it impacted your life beyond the sport itself?
For me, it’s the gamble, not knowing if and what, you can’t control if and what bites. It’s the rush of adrenaline when you feel something nibbling, hoping, wishing, and praying it swallows your hook, and that it’s bigger than the one your mate standing next to you just caught!
Many anglers have a lucky charm or a favorite piece of fishing gear. Do you have any special items or rituals that you believe bring you luck on the water?
I have a song. Eye of the Tiger, Boom, fish on! (I may need to play it on repeat 5 x to get the bite, but it works!) Fishing often involves spending long hours outdoors.
How do you prepare for your fishing trips, and what advice do you have for staying comfortable and safe while fishing?
Pack more food & drinks than you think you need, always. Plenty of sun protection, suncream, hats, sunnies, layers, and towels, always throw a few extra towels on board, they double as a blanket, and sun & wind protection! Conservation and responsible angling are important aspects of the sport.
What steps do you take to ensure the sustainability of fish populations and their habitats?
Caring for my catch is always the number one priority, this means reducing fight time, wet hands when handling catch, and reducing the time out of water. If I am catching to specifically release, eliminating treble hooks and opting for circle hooks where possible. We only catch & keep what we are going to eat, which often means throwing plenty back into the drink. It’s important we respect bag limits to protect our fishery.
As a female angler, you serve as an inspiration to others who may want to get into fishing. What message or advice would you like to share with women and girls interested in taking up this hobby?
Don’t be afraid to just give it a go! Find people who are already doing it, and learn from them. You might fluke your first fish, but you also might suck, so be prepared to learn, and to fail, to try again, there’s nothing like the rush you get knowing something is at the other end of your line! Gender doesn’t play a role in capability, and fish don’t discriminate! I hope we do you all proud, and produce a great film, full of great fish and good(y) times!
Kristin Goodchild signifies a shift in the fishing world towards a more inclusive and diverse community. Kristin’s relentless efforts and passion have paved the way for more women to break through barriers and embrace the joys of angling without prejudice. Through her platform and influence, she has created a space where women can connect, learn, and flourish in this ancient art. As we move forward, it’s essential to celebrate and support initiatives like those of lady anglers. Ensuring that fishing becomes a welcoming space for all enthusiasts, regardless of gender. Kristin Goodchild’s impact and dedication to the cause will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on the fishing community, inspiring generations of women to cast their lines and join the ranks of skilled and empowered anglers.
Find out more about Kristin Goodchild. Click here for more inspiration from the women conquering the world of sport fishing.
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