Boating World: What’s the best way for parents to turn their kids on to fishing?
David Matagiese: To just get them out there and in a hands-on situation. A lot of parents sit there and watch. If they aren’t jumping in and showing the kids the proper way, they’ll lose interest. Once kids catch their first fish, it takes care of itself — they’re hooked.

BW: What’s the top mistake you see parents make when teaching their kids how to fish?
DM: Using improper techniques. They know how to fish, but they start the kids out in the wrong direction by not teaching them the basics, especially how to properly take care of the environment. One example is not recycling the fishing line — a lot of parents just snip off the line and throw it on the ground, which will take 600 years to decompose.

BW: What’s the best tip you have for the average offshore angler?
DM: Slow it down, and keep your eyes open on the water. You miss a lot of primetime fishing when you’re rushing. Also, be prepared for any situation that can arise, and have everything ready. This is what sets professionals apart from the everyday guys. When you’re out on the water, every second counts.

BW: Where is your favorite place to go offshore fishing?
DM: My favorite place off the East Coast is off the humps in Marathon (in the Florida Keys). My all-time favorite place though is in the channels of the Hawaiian islands, where I’ve caught marlin, wahoo and tuna.

BW: How does someone get inducted into the Hall of Fame?
DM: They have to be very involved in the fishing world — have a well-known name, and have done a lot of work geared toward conservation. Once they’re voted in, there’s an induction ceremony with a dinner, and they’re permanently enshrined in IGFA Hall of Fame. Only four people a year are inducted.

BW: What is the main goal of the IGFA?
DM: The IGFA is a non-profit organization committed to the conservation of gamefish and the promotion of responsible and ethical angling through science, education, rulemaking and record keeping.

BW: What’s your favorite type of fish to catch?
DM: Definitely yellow fin and blue fin tuna. They’ll keep your rod bent the entire time, from the beginning to the end. Pound for a pound, they’re the heaviest fighting fish.

BW: What’s the biggest fish you’ve ever caught?
DM: A 382-pound mako shark off the coast of New Jersey. 

BW: What’s your favorite piece of fishing equipment?
DM: It’s actually my lucky fishing hat. I have to have it each time I go offshore, and can’t leave without it! I don’t have the same confidence without it.

BW: Is there any advice you’d like to give?
DM: A lot of times people are intimidated by the sportfishing world. Take the time to figure out what you want to be doing, and do your homework beforehand. It’s important to develop a relationship with your small local tackle shop. It’s hard to ask questions, but there’s no such thing as a stupid question. Ask the employees, because they’re submersed in this every day and are loaded with information. People are always wiling to help, and it’s a good idea to utilize them.