I am a proud resident of the awe-inspiring Ketchikan, AK, where I have become a master of fishing amidst Alaska's stunning landscapes. Whether I’m reeling in the catch of the day or exploring the ocean's bounty, my heart belongs to this wild and wonderful place. As an avid fisherwoman, I had the joy of providing some fin-tastic fish for Salty Sisters. Beyond the fish, I am the proud owner of Foraged & Found, a CPG food brand that crafts delicious pantry staples from the rich kelp harvest of Alaska. Join me in savoring the flavors of the Last Frontier – it's a taste of adventure you won't forget!
Fiona: Sockeye & King Salmon
Born and raised Alaskan. I spent a lot of my younger years set netting the Kasilof with family and friends. It was always a really fun camping trip I looked forward to every year. In my early 20's I picked up fishing again, this time with dipnetting the Kasilof, Kenai, and Copper river. I love learning new skills each year and refining my methods. After a few years of that I then fell in love with art of rod and reel fishing in Seward, the Russian, and the Kenai. Fishing will always have a special place in my heart and it's something I look forward to each year.
Carmen Antaky: Roi & Squirrel Fish
I started spearfishing when I moved to the Big Island a few years ago. Once my friend put a three-prong in my hand during a camping trip on the coast and I caught my first kole, I was hooked. The feeling of eating fish with your friends that you all caught a couple hours earlier by a fire under the stars was so refreshing and continues to deepen my connection to place, the ocean, and to my food.
I work as a wildlife biologist so sustainably hunting and being intentional on how much I take from the reef is important to me. I try to prioritize taking the invasive species off the reef first; the ta’ape, to’au and roi are the main targets in Hawai‘i. I learn something new from the ocean every dive and I try to give back in small ways.
My other favorite way to connect with the ocean is through surfing. So even when the waves are big or flat, I am stoked!
One of the most special places I’ve been is the Aleutian Islands in Alaska, where I connected with the Salty Sisters! I went for a work trip to study bait uptake in salmon streams in preparation for an upcoming rat eradication, and we were lucky enough to fish for halibut, rockfish, and salmon to sustain us while we camped and worked on the island. It was an experience I will never forget!
You can follow me and fish adventures on my Instagram @carmencleo
Kaylin Crabb: King & Coho Salmon, Pacific Cod, Halibut, Rockfish
Kaylin grew a love for fishing at the early age of three. Uncle Loren managed the Bonneville Fish Hatchery in Oregon and as a child spending summers Kaylin would get to catch and release often.
In 2010 a relocation to Utah found her learning to fish for trout in streams just up the canyon from her home. After her first semester at college she took a job at a fishing lodge in Ketchikan, AK. After 5 years filleting fish on the docks for happy guests. After that, a job managing fish processing at a local marina.
On any given day she not fishing you can find Kayln exploring the outdoors. Winters are spent snowboarding and summers backpacking, hiking, fishing and camping.
Kellie Mogg: Halibut, Salmon, Striped Bass, Rockfish
Kellie is a co-founder of Salty Sisters Designs along her sister Krystal. While the business was being born in Southeast Alaska, Kellie was falling deeper in love with the community, the lifestyle, and the wildlife in Ketchikan, AK (especially the salmon). Even now that she’s based in Tulsa, OK, she still considers Ketchikan her second home and goes every chance she gets.
Her halibut, salmon, and rockfish were all caught around Ketchikan — and her striped bass was caught while fishing the east coast with Nicole, aka That Salty Blonde.
She loves music festivals, flow and fire arts, slow travel, a good banter, and will hardly ever turn down a craft cocktail or beer. Her passions lie in encouraging mindfulness in consumerism, whether in localizing our food systems where possible or supporting small artists and makers. To Kellie, there’s something imperative about knowing where our things come from.
Coral Rose: Pacific Cod, Black Bass, Striped Bass
My name is Coral, and I started fishing at the age of 5. My father
was a commercial fisherman and soon after I was born, he started his
own private fishing charter service, Sara Star Charters. He has been in
business for 25 years.
As soon as I was old enough, I started working for
him as first mate, I’ve been full time now for 12 years. We operate a 35’
Downeaster out of Newport RI. from April to December. We both share
the same passion for the ocean, fishing, and sharing the experience with
people from all over the world. The best part about my job is being able
to do it with my dad and I’m thankful for that.
The fish that holds my heart is a New England favorite, the striped bass.
I grew up catching stripers and hope to give the upcoming generations
the same opportunity. Over the last few years with declining populations
and regulation changes, I started tagging striped bass. In the last two
years I have tagged over 150 stripers. Tagging helps track migration
patterns, growth rates and push conservation efforts.
Aside from being a mate, I’m also a student, currently studying Marine
Biology and Agriculture and Fisheries Science, but what else would you
expect from a fishy girl named Coral?
You can follow along @sara_star_charters
Amanda *Kapa Sungear: Opakapaka, Mahi, Uku, Kamanu, Alfonsin, Beardfish
Capt. Amanda Padilla first started fishing when she was around 10 years old. Her parents would take her to Cholla Lake outside Holbrook, Arizona, where they used canned corn and live worms for bait. She moved to Maui in 2004 after she finished high school and became a captain in 2017. “I worked in real estate for eight years, watching the ocean every day out of my office in Lahaina. The salt spray definitely got into my head, and I knew where my heart was: the sea,” Amanda recalled.
Kapa Sungear, was founded in 2019. The company’s core mission, “to clean up our oceans and teach the next generation the importance of leading by example,” stems from her experiences as a vessel captain and sustainable fisherwoman. Amanda is currently working on the vessel HO‘OLANA, which is unable to offer public charters at this time and is instead commercial bottom fishing. “Right now we are giving a portion of our catches to Maui first responders and families affected by COVID-19.” Amanda is grateful that her side business, Kapa Sungear, “is flourishing, and good things are on the rise.” She is planning to take the Kapa Sungear crew to Kaho‘olawe in December 2020 to help restore native plants.
Amanda also understands the importance of putting in your time to become a captain. “The sea time required for obtaining your 100-Ton Merchant Marine License is just the start of your journey,” Amanda said. “I would never ask a crew to do something I haven’t done already.” Amanda has completed “countless dry docks, wet docks, and interisland crossings.” She understands there is so much, including “engine room knowledge, diesel engine knowledge, understanding weather patterns, wind changes, loud formations, and so many other aspects,” being a good captain.
Nicole: Striped Bass, Mahi Mahi, Tuna
My name is Nicole, I am a commercial fisherwoman from New Hampshire. As a child my dad and I spent our days fishing. My father is a marine biologist and instilled his love and passion for the deep blue with me. The ocean has always held my heart and is a place of healing. Simply being on the water is enough for me, the fish biting is just a bonus. Once the ocean has touched your soul, life on land will never be the same.
In high school a marine biology teacher got me a job on a lobster tour boat and from there I got into commercial fishing. I currently lobster in the spring, summer, and fall, and green crab in the spring through the early winter.
Striped bass are my favorite fish to target, I have fished for them up and down the east coast. Depending on where you are, what depth you’re fishing, the water temp, the time of year, it’s always different. Most of what I do with rod and reel is catch and release. I only keep fish that my family/friends and I can eat. My favorite fishery is lobstering because every trap pulled is like a treasure chest. I love observing sea creatures, I still go tide pooling, and every time I see whales, seals, molas, or any sea life I get so excited and giddy, like a kid on Christmas morning, it never gets old.
In my free time I enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling, and freediving. I love being in the water as much as I love being on a boat fishing. My dive bag is always within arms reach while fishing since the ocean is full of wonderful surprises. When landlocked I enjoy roller and ice hockey and skiing. Currently in pursuit of a marine biology degree. You can follow my fishing adventures @thatsaltyblonde_ on instagram.
Sandi Shriver: Yellowtail, Tripletail, Mahi, Sheepshead & Red Snapper
Sandi contributed our first Atlantic Ocean fish. They were caught off the Florida coast by hook and line.
Sandi splits her time between beautiful Hawaii and sunny Florida. She loves fishing, hiking, golfing, surfing, SUPing, and all things in the sun. If it is cloudy out, you may also find her researching new brews in a craft beer laboratory, or near the stove tinkering with her Kitchenaid mixer for her next culinary creation.
Sandi learned to fish from her brother, Jay, who taught her to only keep what they can eat for the week. “It takes a lot of restraint not to throw every keeper into the ice box, but we know that with each release, we will all have more for next time.”
Shaun Barnes: Triggerfish, Mahi, salmon, cod, halibut
Shaun is our go to women based in Hawaii. From gathering skins to designing jewelry to being a part of the rockin events crew this lady always comes through.
Not only is she musician that currently plays with Ronnie V & The Family Band on the Big Island of Hawaii but she is also a metalsmith and massage therapist. Shaun can be found doing work ranging from craft cocktail bartending to creating custom home designs.
On any given day you might find Shaun open ocean swimming or spearfishing. She enjoys the best food and is outstanding to collaborate with in the kitchen. This lady always makes an effort to purchase local foods at markets and supports small businesses every chance she gets.
Shaun has found herself keen on rainbows in the last year. Regardless the shape or size they bring her a magical happiness that’s worth every view.
Krystal Sentz: Coho, King, Chum, Humpy Salmon, Copper Rockfish & Mutton Snapper, halibut, salmon +…
Krystal is the co-founder of Salty Sisters Designs and the real force behind making it all happen. Krystal’s Salmon and Rockfish were caught in the waters of SE Alaska, and her mutton snapper was caught while sailing in the Bahamas.
She is a commercial fisherperson in Southeast Alaska. During those summers, when not power trolling, her and cousin Susan take out the skiff to go…..you guessed it…..fishing. Fishing has always been a part of Krystal’s life, whether saltwater or freshwater, this lady is hooked.
Krystal is a craft beer lover, jewelry designer and music fanatic. She loves to dance, cook and live a life that’s primarily outside. Friends and family play a vital roll in her enjoying life. On a regular basis she will be gathering people at the beach for a day, a camp trip, random exploratory mission or just over for dinner and drinks.
Elizabeth Baker: Coho Salmon, Canary & Copper Rockfish, Flounder, Mackerel, Skip jack, Halibut, Cod
Elizabeths fish were caught in SE Alaska by hook and line.
One of our favorite women to call upon when undertaking a challenging outdoor adventure. We have traveled the countryside of Italy together, ran ground crew for a kayak island circumnavigation, summited Mauna Loa and Hualalai and kayaked the NePali coast from South to North. If you need a rock on your team, carried up a mountain or a delicious meal cooked this is the one you can lean on.
Recently Elizabeth has taken on some truly tough trails, The Te Araroa in New Zealand, Crows Pass in AK (in a single day), The Three High Pases, Everest and Annapurna base camps in NePal. This winter she will be tackling the O Circuit Torres del Paine in Chile
She’s spent part of her working hours this summer leading kids on week long trips through the back country of Alaska. Her play time is spent hiking throughout the Kenai Peninsula with her dogs Cujo and Casper, surfing the AK bore tide and exploring the culinary world of Anchorage.
Susan Tate: King & Coho Salmon, Halibut, Skip jack, Mackerel
Susans fish were caught on her off time from the boat by hook and line in Southeast Alaska.
Susan is a master of certifications. Dive master, permaculture, yoga teacher, commercial fisherwomen, candle maker, event coordinator, and book keeper are just a few of the many titles she holds. Susan just purchased a homestead in Oklahoma where she’s excited to start her farm, keeping bees and working the land .
Cousin Susan is a contributor of Salty Sisters in more ways than one. She gets her hands dirty cleaning the fish we process, manages our finances and helps create the jewelry.
Krista Watters: Sockeye Salmon & King Salmon
Krysta’s salmon were caught in Bristol Bay on the F/V Offense. Her and her Husband, RD, own and operate a 32 ft commercial gillnetter. We are lucky to be living the American dream here in the Bay. Every boat is its own small business and great model of self employment. We love to fish, be on the ocean and see the power of the amazing runs we have here.
Bristol Bay has the largest Sockeye Salmon run in the world and is one of Alaska’s last great salmon fisheries. It is also at great risk due to Pebble Mine and we are stoked to get fish to Salty Sisters designs to bring the Pebble issue more public. Get in touch with the EPA and tell them we don’t need more gold when we have all the red gold we can get!
In our free time, we like traveling, paddling, surfing, boating, fishing, hunting, playing with our dogs and drinking box wine on the beach. We also spend a lot of time building our houses in AK and HI and always putting some love into the boat. Next project will be a food truck in BB. If you’re interested in purchasing top quality frozen fillets of Wild Sockeye Salmon get in touch with Krysta by email @ watters.krysta@gmail.com
Jenny Decker: Rainbow Trout & Mutton Snapper
Jenny’s rainbow trout were caught while fishing on the White River in Arkansas outside of Bull Shoals State Park. Not only is this women a contributor of fish, she helps in almost every other facet of Salty Sisters Designs. From helping us on social media to putting the final pieces together, to preparing the skins Jenny can and does do it all.
Jenny has been a nurse for 14 years, the last 5 of those have been practicing as a travel nurse while seeing the world. She was the first documented person to solo circumnavigate the Big Island by kayak (a 20 day expedition) and spent the last 2 years paddling for an outrigger canoe team that had a very successful first couple years. Her team referred to her as ‘the heart’ of the canoe. She also recently obtained her Dive Master certification.
If you were to ask any of Jenny’s friends what her best qualities are they might have a hard time narrowing it down. Jenny is one of the kindest souls many of us are lucky enough to know. Always up for an adventure, getting outside and camping you better believe she will be inviting and encouraging friends along for the ride. Jenny’s colleagues LOVE when they get the opportunity to work with her and her friends will tell you she would do anything for them if they are in need.
On any given day you might find Jenny indulging in a few of her favorite things. Hanging with her dog, Romeo, an ice cold Corona with a lime, a glass of Pinot Noir or her ‘last meal’ food the perfect turkey sandwich.
Alyssa Motokoak: Sheepshead, Croaker, Black Sea Perch, Calico Bass, Cabezon, Snakehead, Mutton Snapper, Lionfish, Yellowtail
Alyssa’s fish were speared off the coast of California, Washington and Florieda. A newer polespear fisher who mainly spears in southern California. She makes it out to Hawaii, Florida, and Washington on occasion. Long time diver, it wasn't too much of a jump to get into spearing four months ago.
When she's not in the water she enjoys Brazilian jujitsu, cooking, PC gaming, and woodworking. She loves anything to do with the Hannibal movie, books, and series as well as Ghost in the Shell and Aeon Flux.
She splurges on Japanese whiskey, hand tools, and fine wood. Alyssa graduated from a trade school specializing as a motorcycle tech but has worked as a flight attendant for almost nine years.
She recently relocated to southern California to drive around in her campervan looking for new dive spots and buddies. If you have a dive spot near or far that you think is worth checking out, let her know @motokoak
