A Fish Eye Lens: Hardee establishes new organization at ECU

Two people sitting on a boat in open water, with one person holding a large fish horizontally across their lap. The fish is long and silvery with a dark back and lighter belly. The boat is white, and the water stretches to the horizon under a clear blue sky, suggesting a calm day for fishing. — Blake and his father fishing recently.

For generations, the Hardee family has fished the Pamlico River, a tradition that ignited Brinkley-Lane Scholar Blake Hardee’s lifelong passion for angling and conservation. Inspired by his hometown and his own family legacy, Hardee teamed up with his friend and fellow Honors College student, Wiley Reynolds, to found the Coastal Inshore Fishing Club at ECU, bringing together fellow students who share a love for fishing and a commitment to protecting North Carolina’s coastal ecosystems.

Hardee said, “Growing up, my family taught me two things: share your passion with others, and take care of the water so future generations can enjoy it, too.”

Through the club, Hardee and his team mentor new anglers, teaching everything from casting fundamentals and proper fish handling to conservation best practices. Their goal is to help members enjoy the water responsibly, fostering a deep respect for the delicate ecosystems we all depend on while making sure everyone has fun.

“One of our club events even focuses on improving a local waterway, which is something that came directly from my family’s values,” Hardee said.

Through partnerships with local tackle shops and top Southeast brands, club officers provide members with quality gear so everyone hits the water confident and ready. However, launching an off-campus club brought challenges, though Hardee says the biggest was ensuring legal and safe participation due to North Carolina fishing licenses.

Hardee said, “The officers and I did the research to fully understand the requirements and make it easy for members to get what they need. We want every barrier to be removed so anyone at ECU can have the chance to fish.”

For Hardee, fishing has always been about community, so he tells newcomers not to overthink it and that every new spot is a fresh chance to learn. Through shared photos, stories and guided trips, Hardee helps them gain confidence and feel right at home on the water.

Two people on a small white boat holding fishing rods with freshly caught fish. One person is standing near the edge of the boat wearing a light-colored shirt and red shorts, holding a fish on the line. The other person is closer to the boat's console, wearing a blue life jacket and patterned shorts, also holding a fish on the line. The boat is on a body of water with grassy marshland visible in the background under a partly cloudy sky. — Hardee’s family has fished for generations — pictured is Hardee fishing with his dad during his childhood.

“Once they see that catching a speckled trout or red drum is possible, the excitement kicks in. Sharing knowledge builds confidence — and before long, they’re hooked on finding the next bite,” Hardee said.

Hardee sees in these college anglers a reflection of the patience, peace and deep passion that is mirrored in his family’s traditions. For him, the greatest reward comes in that electric moment when a newcomer reels in their first fish: the wide eyes, the grin, the pure excitement that reminds him exactly why he started the club.

Hardee said, “That’s why creating this club mattered to me. It builds community, teaches conservation and passes on a tradition that’s been part of my life for as long as I can remember.”