Our business was founded in 2014 by Dave Fladd and Ralph Phillips. Ralph is one of the pioneers of inshore fishing in Charleston, SC. Back in the early 70’s, he was one of three inshore guides. Over his 40+ years of experience he has also guided offshore, won tournaments, been featured in magazines, etc. His experience in what works out on the water is unmatched. Dave is an avid inshore angler and engineer who uses his analytical and problem solving skills in product development – and on the water. In many ways we are alike, but in more ways we are different. Our differences are our strength, and makes for a great partnership. We are strictly artificial bait fishermen. As Ralph likes to say “If you catch a fish using bait, it doesn’t count. You’re feeding the fish”. We can teach you how to understand where the fish are and why, and how to present an artificial bait in a way that induces a strike. For us, it’s all about the strike and knowing it is your skill that fooled the fish into biting. If you find us out on the water, you will see us fishing our own products, along with Z-Man ElaZtech lures.
How do I become a member of Team Eye Strike?
We get this question every day. We choose who to offer to join our Team based on a few core principles. Our team members check the following boxes:
- They are true ambassadors of our products. This means if you check their tackle box or what’s on their line, our products are there. They believe in them and use them because of it. We are turned off by “fake” product ambassadors who tout the products of their sponsors as if they are the best thing ever – until the next sponsor comes along… In other words, the love for our products preceded the sponsorship
- They are sportsmen. This means that they are conservation-minded and concerned for the future of our fisheries. This is evidenced by their actions, not their words
- They are good photographers and active on social media. Our advertising and marketing is heavily social media based. Our team members create interesting and compelling content
- Last but not least, they are good people. We want people who we are proud to have represent us. Again, this is based on actions, not words.
So, if you think you might be our next Team Member, our advice to you is to keep doing what you’re doing. We pay attention, and sooner or later, we will notice you. You never know, we may reach out to you to ask if you would like to join our Team