Hello Julien, could you first introduce yourself to our readers?
Julien Fesseau, Fishing Guide Instructor since 2015, I took the BP JEPS in Caulnes in the Côtes D'Armor. This has been my main activity since 2019 on a Honda Marine motorboat.
Why did you become a fishing guide?
At the end of my studies, the profession of fishing guide was beginning to surface in France, and I was very tempted to take the training, but it was finally ten years later that I took the plunge, following a number of professional experiences. I had worked in the fishing industry and was often on the water, so I wanted to share my passion while being my own boss.
What kind of guidance products do you offer?
Most of my activity takes place in Royan, where I offer sea fishing courses by boat, for sea bass, speckled bass, meagre to the coast, for beginners to experienced anglers, I also do tuna on lure hunts for experienced anglers.
The second part of my activity is on freshwater, still on a Honda Marine motorboat, for carnivorous lures on the Lac d'Hourtin, the Charente, but also in Ireland for pike trips or in the Netherlands for pike-perch, pike and perch trips.
What does being a fishing guide mean to you?
The fishing guide shares knowledge of the technique(s), the environment, the approach and understanding of fishing, and must be able to adapt to the needs and level of the participant(s).
Do you fish or not when you're guiding?
At the start of an outing, I'll often demonstrate the casting gestures and technique, then I don't fish, I look after my anglers and manage navigation with the Honda engine. I also have anglers who ask me to fish with them, depending on the group and the conditions at the time. When there's a lot of activity, I don't have time to fish, so I take care of the landing net and the photos.
What do you do when you're not guiding?
When I'm not guiding, I often take my Honda out for a spin and fish for myself or with my daughter and friends. It's a very absorbing passion, I must admit.
How do you see guiding in France?
Guiding in France has developed considerably, and people are now more accustomed to calling on the services of a guide for a great day's fishing, and what's more, for outings at sea or in large areas.
What advice would you give to people wishing to embark on this adventure?
To become an independent fishing guide, you have to make sacrifices. It takes a lot of time and investment, especially at the start, and running a business is no easy task. Making a living from your passion is fantastic, but it's a real challenge, and you need to be properly equipped to take to the open sea or sail along the coast in complete safety.
What is your dream as a fisherman?
I still have many dreams in my fishing life, catching a big tarpon for example, I touched this dream with my fingertips, but the fish came off after 5 minutes of fighting... I'll be sure to try again!
