Hello Manon, can you introduce yourself to Fishing.news readers?
Manon Rocher -I'm Manon, aka The Fisher Woman, 24 years old and a Pro-Staff Fiiish, Hobie Kayak Europe and Lowrance. I've been fishing mainly for sea bass in kayaks for the past 6 years, but my attraction to discovery and the accumulation of experience have also led me to fish for trout and other freshwater predators. I mainly fish with my brother in Brittany and Normandy. My work as a Hobie kayak saleswoman leads me to take part in high-level competitions, and my satisfaction comes from showing that it's possible to perform as a woman in an essentially male hobby.
Can you tell us about your early days in fishing?
Manon Rocher -Fishing is a family affair for me, with my grandfather a fisherman who left too soon, but who surely passed on the gene to me.
Then one day, a friend took me bass fishing from the shore and I never stopped going. I went on to learn, evolve and develop new fishing techniques.
When, how and why did you agree to become a Pro-Staff?
Manon Rocher -My first sponsor was Fiiish, and I seem to have been spotted via social networks. I'm now entering my fifth year with the Team.
For me, it seemed obvious to agree to be an ambassador for Fiiish, as I was already fishing exclusively with their products at the time. What's more, it's a brand that's always looking to innovate and outdo itself in the creation of its products, and I really like their modern, trendy image! I also appreciate their long-standing commitment to eco-design, and the fact that the latest addition to the family, BioTop Stick, is right up my alley!
What does being an ambassador mean to you?
Manon Rocher -Being an ambassador gives me the chance and opportunity to pass on our techniques, advice and knowledge to a large number of anglers. When you're just starting out in fishing, or when you're lacking information when you want to progress or start another technique, you need a reference, and that's what we ambassadors are for. What's more, we're able to promote and advise on products, because we have the hindsight and fishing experience associated with the lure in question.
What's your fondest memory or anecdote from your time as a Pro-Staff?
Manon Rocher -I don't think I have any particular anecdote. For me, any time spent fishing in the middle of magnificent landscapes and catching fish with good equipment, good products and a good group of friends is a recipe for great memories.
What do you think of fishing in France?
Manon Rocher -Today, we have a new generation of anglers who practice eco-responsible fishing, known as "no kill". Sport fishing for pleasure, while protecting natural resources. For my part, I fish exclusively no-kill, but I'm not against a reasoned catch.
I would like to add that I am proud to this day to be one of the few Pro-Staff women in France. It wasn't always easy to make a place for yourself in this world where we're in the minority. But if you persevere and prove yourself, you'll get there. I encourage all women anglers to believe in themselves and their goals.
Any advice for anglers who want to join a Pro-Staff team one day?
Manon Rocher -Persevere, live and share your passion!
