How Barb Carey Set out to Fill a Void for Women in the Sport of Fishing -004

In episode 4 of the It Pays to Fish podcast, you'll meet Barb Carey, founder of Wisconsin Women Fish and the Women Ice Angler Project. 

Barb grew up in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and developed a love for the outdoors and fishing at an early age. When she went off to college, she drifted away from it, but eventually rediscovered her passion for fishing again. As she set out to learn the techniques to catch more fish, she noticed a huge void for female anglers in her area. Thus in 2003 Wisconsin Women Fish was born. With just a handful of ladies who shared the same passion for fishing, through word of mouth the group started to grow, and now 12 years later is 300 members strong, including members from all over the midwest and other parts of the country. Aside from social outings, the group also hosts educational clinics.

From WI Women Fish, came the Women Ice Angler Project. Barb, once again, saw a need. There was a huge lack of female anglers being featured in product catalogs, promotional materials and other publications. WIAP is an annual media event to generate and showcase photos of real women ice fishing. They make a huge splash on social media using the hashtag #womenonice. Only in existence for four short years, WIAP has already made a huge impact in the ice fishing world and results are being realized. 

In this episode you'll learn:


How Barb Carey set out to fix a gap she noticed in the fishing industry and turned it into a full-time job.

How she uses writing and other communication skills to her advantage in multiple areas, including seeking out sponsorships and pro staff positions.

About Wisconsin Women Fish and the Women Ice Angler Project, and how they've brought female anglers together from all over the midwest and other parts of the country.


Additional Resources:


WI Women Fish

WI Women Fish on Facebook

WI Women Fish on Instagram

The Woman Ice Angler Project

The Woman Ice Angler Project on Facebook

The Woman Ice Angler Project on Instagram

The Great Wild Radio Show


This episode is brought to you by Mariner's Learning System. Go to www.marinerslearningsystem.com and enter coupon code: itpaystofish upon checkout to save 10% on any of their United States Coast Guard approved Captain's License programs!