Hello Vincent, can you introduce yourself to the readers of Fishing.news ?
Vincent Marin - Hello everyone, Vincent Marin, I am 30 years old and I live on the French Riviera near Fréjus in the Var department. Passionate since my childhood, my professional and personal life is organized around fishing and natural environments.
My job, a real passion like the fishing leisure, is based on these environments. Engineer in hydrobiology, I am currently in charge of the management of the fish population and the development of the aquatic heritage of my department of Var.
An assiduous fisherman, I appreciate all fishing techniques, especially lures, adapting to any situation. In fresh water, as in the Mediterranean, I like to track all carnivores. I also appreciate fishing trips to admire new species and discover other preserved sites.
I have a pronounced taste for photography which allows me on a daily basis to enhance my work, to promote the fishing leisure and to highlight the fish world. I represent the prestigious Rapala/VMC group.
Can you tell us about your early days in fishing?
Vincent Marin - My beginnings started in my childhood, accompanied by my father and grandfather, both passionate about fishing. From a very young age, I was surveying the lakes of the Var region with my father and then some of the lakes of the Haute-Garonne region with my grandfather from Toulouse, of whom I have fond memories.
Like any beginner, we fished for white fish with a rod and then for predators with a good old rod. I was already fascinated by the fish and happy to be at the water's edge.
As a teenager, I discovered the crib fishing with my first Rapala lures alongside my father and little brother. Strong sensations with night fishing in search of the Mediterranean wolves.
Ãeuros the age of the majority, come the first training courses of studies in federations of fishing and protection of the aquatic environment. I perfected my skills alongside my colleagues from the Var and the Alpes-Maritimes, friendships were born and continue to existâ?¦ Just like the fishing parties from the shore or on a boat. I specialize since then in the tracking of carnivores of fresh water or sea.
When, how and why did you agree to be a Pro-Staff?
Vincent Marin - The sponsorship started almost three years ago with VMC. I proudly accepted to join this passionate and dynamic team offering high quality French products and novelties that clearly make a difference. Then the Rapala/VMC group, formerly called Normark, gave me the honor to join the team.
Since my childhood, I have been attracted to photography. Always equipped with my SLR during my fishing trips, I like to immortalize a beautiful light, a landscape, a fish species or even a product. The quality of my photos was noticed and it is quite naturally that I accepted this partnership. The tracking of all freshwater carnivores and some Mediterranean predators were also appreciated within the group.
What does being an ambassador mean to you?
Vincent Marin - I have the chance to represent all the brands present in the group like Rapala, Okuma, VMC, etc. Being passionate about all types of fish, I have been able to equip myself for all fishing techniques. It is also very pleasant to be able to contribute to product development. We have the opportunity to test equipment, write articles and bring our touch to the final products.
Contributing to communication and product development is rewarding for a passionate angler. Concerned about material and detail, I naturally enjoy being an ambassador for the Rapala/VMC group.
What is your best memory, or anecdote, as a Pro-Staff to share with our readers?
Vincent Marin - During a fishing trip with my father on a pond, the fish were not biting. I advised him to try a new floating lure with propeller, the Skitter Prop from Rapala. At the first cast, it's hanging and it's big! We were then surprised to see not one, but two magnificent perch of more than 40 cm on the same lure! A moment engraved and especially a joy to see my father happy of this incredible catch.
Being a Pro-Staff also means being part of a team and meeting other fishermen. We recently shared a moment together in the group and had a lot of fun on and off the water. A close-knit team of talented anglers where exchanges are very constructive.
How do you see the fishing industry in France?
Vincent Marin - The fishing network in France is strong with more than 1.5 million fishermen, the second largest national association. It is practicable by all and attracts all generations.
The fisherman, a true sentinel of lakes and rivers, is a major actor in the preservation of the environment. By taking his fishing card, the fisherman joins a fishing association. He can thus propose actions within his AAPPMA.
We benefit from a rich and heterogeneous heritage that offers an important diversity of fishing. Practicing a leisure activity in the middle of nature is more and more appreciated. It is also an opportunity to share convivial moments with friends and family.
On the other hand, the drought and the numerous withdrawals have an impact on our territory. Within the network of federations of fishing and protection of the aquatic environment, we fight particularly on this quantitative aspect, vital for the aquatic fauna and essential to practice our passion.
Any advice for anglers who want to join a Pro-Staff team one day?
Vincent Marin - It is necessary to stand out and show that you can bring them a real "plus". Photography is essential today. It is important to take care of the quality of your photos.
A brand is looking for people who are involved and proud to represent it in the field. The attitude must be impeccable and respect for fish is imperative. Being able to write is a real plus. And finally, keep in mind that fishing is above all a pleasure.
