Hello Laurent, can you introduce yourself to the readers of Fishing.news ?
Laurent Chauvet -Hi, Laurent 39 years old, aka Black Marlin Fishing 974 on the networks. Originally from the South of France (Martigues), I am a Pro-Staff for Top Fishing, specialized in big game fishing, more precisely in vertical jigging and slow jigging. I live now on the Reunion Island and I have the mission to develop the visual Top Fishing France on the coasts of the Indian Ocean.
And in Reunion Island, there is enough to make beautiful fish!
The way I fish and the equipment I use are just as important to me as the fish I am after. I always devote 100% of my time to my favorite sport. That's where Top Fishing comes into play by providing me with the right equipment for each of my fisheries, as well as the right equipment for big game fishing.
Can you tell us about your early days in fishing?
Laurent Chauvet -I started fishing at a young age at the age of 9 when I was following my father, and yes, already 30 years of practiceâeuros¦
It is around 14 years old that fishing took all its meaning for me. I had become independent with my scooter, and I was fishing more regularly. I quickly realized that powerful equipment would allow me to acquire a little more experience and to increase the number of my catches.
When, how and why did you agree to be a Pro-Staff?
Laurent Chauvet -Being ambassador for the brand Centaure Semi-rigide, located in Biarritz, and missioned for the development of the brand in Reunion Island, I received that day my brand new semi-rigid. A 620 XL in its wide version powered by a 175 hp Mercury.
This same day, was held the inauguration of a new Top Fishing outlet in the premises of Neptune Diffusion. I had the opportunity to talk with Daniel, Top Fishing's owner, and Jérôme, Top Fishing's Pro-Staff and fishing guide in the South of France. The feeling is passed immediately, and a sponsorship proposal was offered to me. That of representing the brand Top Fishing in Reunion Island. A great responsibility for me, but without pressure in this Team, because Daniel and Jerome told me the values to share: good humor, sincerity, sharing and passion.
What does being an ambassador mean to you?
Laurent Chauvet -I take this role of Pro-Staff to heart, it's a commitment, but above all a matter of trust. Be careful, as some might think, it is not paid, but rather an exchange of good practices. The material made available that we must test throughout the year. Whether it is equipment specially made in Top Fishing, or equipment that we have the exclusivity.
It's also a way to present new products to fishermen, in search of the latest reel, the latest rod, or the latest anti-uv tee-shirt. Top Fishing also trust me on the social networks part where I take a malicious pleasure to create content. I invite you to follow us if it is not already done.
What is your best memory, or anecdote, as a Pro-Staff to share with our readers?
Laurent Chauvet -My most beautiful memory remains the sessions on the small pelagics with my friends. When you see your tuna being snatched up by a voracious tuna and you know for sure that you won't have a chance. At that moment, all heads turn, all eyes meet and we go in a huge laugh while you are being emptied the reelâeuros¦ It is moments engraved forever.
How do you see the fishing industry in France?
Laurent Chauvet -A look towards the future. It is by sharing our passion while respecting it, that we will be able to advance. And why not make the youngest ones want to start fishing by making their eyes shine. This is what I try to do with my 8 years old son during our fishing sessions.
Any advice for anglers who want to join a Pro-Staff team one day?
Laurent Chauvet -To join a team as a Pro Staff / Ambassador, you must have respect, vigor, know how to share and give of yourself. Of course, you must be above all passionate about fishing. You must also know what it is about and why not propose a different approach, new techniques. It is with all these strings that one day you will be able to join a team.
