Meet our team
Hunter Riggle
Owner
For some, fishing is a weekend hobby or a momentary escape. But for others, it’s a thread woven deeply into the fabric of life. For me, fishing is more than just a pastime—it’s a way of life that has shaped who I am from the very beginning.
I can’t remember a time when fishing wasn’t part of my world. I grew up surrounded by people who fished, and it became as natural to me as walking. My earliest and most influential mentors were right in my own family—my dad, grandpa, and uncle. My dad, especially, is the greatest outdoorsman I know. Watching him navigate the water with patience, skill, and respect for nature instilled in me a deep appreciation for the sport and everything it represents.
One of the milestones I’m most proud of is turning my passion into a purpose-driven business. Starting a company rooted in something I love has been incredibly rewarding—but what makes it truly meaningful is the opportunity to use it as a platform to give back and do good for others. It’s more than a job; it’s a mission.
Fishing, to me, isn’t just about the fish. It’s about the experience, the connection to nature, and the lessons it teaches. The early mornings, the quiet reflection, the thrill of the catch—each moment on the water is a reminder of the simplicity and beauty of life.
Being a great fisherman is about far more than reeling in the biggest catch. It’s a blend of skill, patience, and character. Here’s what I believe sets the great ones apart:
Patience – Fishing demands calm persistence. A great fisherman understands that success often comes after failure and long waits.
Knowledge of the Water and Fish – Understanding fish behavior, water conditions, and seasonal patterns is crucial to success.
Adaptability – Whether it’s weather shifts or uncooperative fish, being able to pivot and try new approaches is key.
Skill and Technique – From casting accuracy to knot tying, technical precision can make all the difference.
Conservation Ethic – True sportsmen respect nature. Following regulations, practicing catch-and-release, and caring for the environment are non-negotiable.
Observation and Intuition – Reading subtle signs in nature often leads to the biggest breakthroughs.
Love for the Process – Above all, great fishermen enjoy every moment on the water—win or lose.
Fishing is more than sport. It’s a teacher, a healer, and a lifelong companion. And for those who truly love it, it’s a calling that never lets go.
Emma Riggle
Owner
For many, fishing is more than just a hobby—it’s a way of life. For one passionate angler, the journey began early, with a simple bluegill on the line and a father by her side. What started as quiet moments on the water has since evolved into a deeper love for the sport, one that now includes bass tournaments, kayak adventures, and building a family legacy.
Fishing has always been part of her story. “I grew up fishing with my dad, as far back as I can remember,” she shares. Those early days were less about the catch and more about connection. Bluegill and catfish were the targets, but the memories made were far more valuable. “It was more about the time spent together than the fish on the hook.”
It wasn’t until 2022 that she was introduced to bass fishing—a new and exciting frontier in her angling journey. That shift came after meeting her now-husband, Hunter, who quickly became not only her fishing partner but her mentor. “He’s like my personal fish encyclopedia,” she says with a smile. With his support, she dove into the world of bass fishing, and it didn’t take long for her to fall in love with the challenge and thrill of the sport.
In a short time, she’s already collected some remarkable milestones. “I’m most proud of catching my personal best—5.72 pounds—during a tournament,” she recalls. That same day, she also landed her first full tournament limit, a meaningful win for any competitive angler.
But the achievements go beyond just fish on the line. She purchased her first kayak in late 2023, and by 2024, despite her limited experience and being new to the competitive scene, she jumped into her first tournament. “It’s hard to jump into a male-dominated sport that I knew very little about and feel like I’ve got a chance, but I’ve been welcomed with open arms,” she says.
She also takes pride in her supportive role in Hunny’s Hideout, a small business born from Hunter’s fishing passion. “My husband is extremely talented, and I’m so happy I could help him push from hobby to small business.”
For her, fishing isn’t just about competition—it’s about peace, reflection, and connection. “Being on the water is where I feel closest to Mother Nature and God,” she explains. As a busy mom, those moments of calm are rare and deeply treasured. Fishing also gives her and Hunter a chance to share meaningful time together, and now they’re passing that tradition on to their children. “Teaching our kids to fish is not so peaceful,” she laughs, “but I still love that we get the opportunity to take them out.”
So, what makes a truly great fisherman? “Adaptability,” she says without hesitation. “You’ve got to be good at problem-solving and able to figure out patterns. Bass fishing is an ever-changing puzzle, and I love that.”
But perhaps even more meaningful than the puzzle is the community she’s found through fishing. “I enjoy that so many fishermen are passionate about getting kids outside and teaching them to fish. That’s something really special.”
Edie wilkinson
Prostaff
Some people discover fishing through childhood tradition. Others find it through competition or friendship. But for one woman, fishing came into her life at a time when she needed it most—and it ended up giving her far more than she ever imagined.
Her journey with fishing began in 2018, a few years after the heartbreaking loss of her husband. Life had changed in ways she couldn’t have expected, and in the midst of grief and searching, she found herself introduced to fishing by a friend—someone who would later become her life partner.
“He was the one who showed me the ropes,” she says. “He was my mentor, my guide—and over time, that bond deepened in ways neither of us anticipated.”
What started as a new hobby quickly became something more—a source of healing, growth, and strength. Fishing gave her an outlet, a purpose, and a way forward. “It saved my life after I lost my husband,” she shares candidly. “It pushed me to grow, to step outside of my comfort zone, to try things I was once too scared to attempt.”
Her progress came fast. In just her second year of fishing, she earned a first-place finish at an Indiana Kayak Anglers (IKA) event—beating out some of the top competitors in the state. “That’s still my favorite finish to this day,” she says, with a clear sense of pride.
But beyond any trophy or title, what fishing has truly given her is a deep connection—to the outdoors, to a community, and to herself. “It’s provided so many memorable experiences and meaningful relationships,” she says. “Some of the best people I’ve met in my life have come through this sport.”
When asked what makes a great angler, her response is thoughtful and grounded: “I think it comes down to two things. First, a natural instinct—an intuitive sense for how to break down water and understand what the fish are doing. And second, mental control. The ability to stay calm, focused, and positive no matter what’s happening on the water.”
Her story is one of resilience, growth, and transformation. From heartbreak to healing, from fear to fearlessness—fishing has been her path through it all. And now, with rod in hand and a heart full of purpose, she continues to chase not just fish, but peace, progress, and connection—one cast at a time.
tj aylWARD
Prostaff
For some, fishing is a weekend hobby. For others, it’s a way to relax. But for one lifelong angler, it’s a calling—an unwavering passion that began before he could fully understand it.
“I was probably seven years old, maybe even younger, when I first got introduced to fishing,” he recalls. “It was my dad and grandpa who lit the spark. From the beginning, I knew this was something special.”
As he grew, so did his fascination with the sport. His childhood was filled with the iconic voices and techniques of fishing legends—Hank Parker, Bill Dance, Roland Martin, Jimmy Houston, and Denny Brauer. Weekend mornings weren’t complete without tuning into Bassmaster or FLW, watching the pros work their magic on the water.
But it wasn’t just about catching fish. Fishing became a mirror for life—an evolving source of joy, challenge, and discipline. It became his meditation, his test of will, and his connection to others. “Fishing is so many things to me,” he says. “It’s a way to calm the mind, but also a way to push myself beyond what I thought possible. It’s about building deep bonds with people and finding new connections through a shared passion.”
His drive for personal excellence didn’t stop at the shoreline. He competed in—and completed—two Ironman triathlons, with a total of three under his belt. That same grit and resilience translated naturally into competitive fishing. His efforts were rewarded with back-to-back Angler of the Year (AOY) titles on Bluegrass, and in his first season with GRBY, he claimed another AOY on Dogwood.
But beyond the trophies and titles lies a deeper philosophy. To him, a great fisherman is more than just someone who catches fish. “A truly great angler has patience, tolerance, discipline, and perseverance,” he explains. “They know how to read the water, how to adapt to changing conditions, and how to stay open to new ideas. It’s about more than just technique—it’s about mindset.”
Integrity is another cornerstone of his fishing life. In a competitive world where the pressure to win can be immense, he holds fast to the values passed down from his family. “Practicing integrity on and off the water is everything. It’s how I was raised. If we lead by example, we can draw more people into this awesome sport.”
Whether he’s chasing a tournament title or enjoying a quiet evening on the lake, his love for fishing remains unwavering. It’s more than a sport—it’s a way of life.
chase carlock
Prostaff
My journey into fishing started the same way it does for a lot of people—on the bank with a simple rod, chasing bluegill with my dad. Those early days were more about time together than technique, but they planted the seed for something bigger. As I grew, so did my love for the water. I graduated from bluegill to catfish, and eventually found a real passion in crappie fishing.
Then came the kayak. Once I added that to the mix, everything changed. It opened up new waters and new challenges, and with that came a new dream: tournament fishing. I dove into the bass world, driven not just by the thrill of competition, but by a desire to grow and push myself as an angler.
My biggest influence in fishing has always been my dad. He taught me the fundamentals, but more importantly, he showed me what fishing could mean beyond the catch—patience, connection, and presence. His guidance laid the foundation for everything I do on the water today.
One of my proudest milestones came during a championship tournament. I caught my personal best bass and ended up tying for big bass in the entire event. That catch wasn’t just about size—it was about validation. It reminded me that all the early mornings, the learning curves, and the perseverance were paying off.
For me, fishing is more than a hobby. It’s a way to reset. When life and work get overwhelming, the water is where I find peace. It’s also become something I share with my wife, which has made the experience even more meaningful. Whether we’re competing or just enjoying the quiet, fishing brings us closer—to each other, and to something bigger than ourselves.
A great fisherman isn’t defined by the number of trophies on a shelf. It’s about mindset. It’s someone who can adapt when conditions change, who stays calm when the plan starts falling apart, and who doesn’t fold under pressure. It’s about grit, determination, and staying grounded no matter what the day brings.
I’m a husband and a father of four, grounded in my Christian faith. That foundation shapes everything I do—from my role in my family to my goals in fishing and content creation. I run a YouTube channel and social media platforms under the name Southwest Indiana Outdoors, where I share my journey, my faith, and my passion for the sport.
Looking ahead, I’m working hard to grow both in the kayak fishing world and in the content space. My ultimate goal is to make this a full-time career—sharing what I love, inspiring others, and continuing to learn along the way.
Whether I’m landing a tournament fish or just soaking in a sunrise on the kayak, I know I’m right where I’m meant to be. Fishing isn’t just part of my life—it’s part of who I am.
calah carlock
Prostaff
Fishing has always been a part of my life. As a kid, I’d go out now and then, and even into adulthood I’d occasionally cast a line just for fun. But everything changed last year when I discovered kayak bass fishing — and that’s when I truly got hooked.
What began as a casual hobby quickly turned into a passion. There’s something uniquely thrilling about being out on the water, just you, your kayak, and the pursuit of that next big bite. It’s peaceful, exciting, and addicting all at once. That shift — from recreational fishing to fully immersing myself in the world of kayak bass fishing — marked a turning point in my life.
None of this would have been possible without the support and guidance of my husband, Chase. From day one, he’s been my biggest mentor. His patience, kindness, and willingness to teach me — from tying on lures to mastering the art of using a baitcaster — have made all the difference. Every beginner deserves someone like that in their corner, someone who’s calm when lines tangle and encouraging when casts fall short.
One of my proudest milestones might sound small to others, but for me, it was huge: learning to unhook my own fish. At 33 years old, it wasn’t something I’d ever really done before. But with a new goal of entering tournaments, I knew I had to step up. It wasn’t just about the mechanics — it was about growing my confidence. I’ve never been someone naturally brimming with self-assurance, so seeing myself take on this challenge and succeed has made me incredibly proud. I’ve watched my confidence grow along with my skills, and that growth feels better than any trophy.
Fishing, to me, is so much more than just catching fish. It’s serenity. It’s empowerment. It’s hours on the water lost in your thoughts, connected with nature. Sure, landing a giant bass is a total adrenaline rush, but it’s the quiet moments in between — the stillness, the reflection — that keep me coming back.
A truly great fisherman isn’t measured by the size of their catch or the number of fish they haul in. It’s about passion, respect, and community. It’s someone who loves the sport, who honors the natural world, and who is eager to share their knowledge with the next generation. Because fishing, at its heart, is about more than the catch — it’s about the people and the purpose we find along the way.