Tanya Dowdy, Team Eye Strike
Charleston, South Carolina
IG @reelchica
What do you like most about fishing? I love to hear that reel screamin’! Honestly, I call it “my church” . When I’m out on the water tossing a line, time stops. All of my worries go away, get replaced with a sense of peace and serenity, and my world is right.
How did you get started with fishing? I spent many days and late nights fishing off the dock on Lake Moultrie as a young girl for bass, bream, and catfish. My true addiction didn’t start until my mid twenties. I was cruising the intracoastal and came upon two anglers hauling a huge fish into their boat. I had no idea what kind of fish it was, but knew I had to find out! I was a native to Charleston and dubbed a water rat, but I had no clue the kind of salt water fishery that awaited me. That redfish fueled the fire to becoming a fishing fanatic!
What are your other interests? I recently joined a non-profit group called Saferboater.org as a US Power Boating instructor/captain. We teach boaters the safe and proper way to operate, via an “on the water, skills-based course”. I enjoy teaching, and this lets me have the best of both worlds. If I’m not teaching or fishing, my toes will probably be buried in the sand at the beach reading a good book. I love to kick back with family and friends every chance I get.
What’s your favorite Eye Strike Fishing product? The 3/16oz Texas Eye in gold or chartreuse is hands down my favorite jig paired with a Z-Man Jerk ShadZ or Jerk ShrimpZ. The articulated head and weedless hook allow the angler to work the bait under many conditions to lure a strike. I have had success with redfish, trout, flounder, and even largemouth bass with this jig, and always have a rod rigged with one and ready with to go.
What is something most people don’t know about you? I have a BS in Nursing from the Medical University of South Carolina and used to be an ICU nurse.
Anything else you’d like to add? It’s very gratifying to see female anglers getting recognized for their skills. I am honored and excited to be a true representative of this industry and eagerly anticipating what lies ahead.