Matt Bunting shows his prize-winning catch at the Junior Flatsmaster Tournament. Bunting has been competing in and winning fishing competitions since he was 14-years-old. Photo Courtesy of MATT BUNTING
BY RACHEL SHARPE
Most students returning to CCHS this fall happily reminisced about their summer break of daily trips to the beach, shopping at the mall, and hanging out with friends. Senior Matthew Bunting, however, was engaged in something different from the rest. As he does every summer, Bunting pulled out his rods and reels and went fishing, competing with other anglers in the hopes of coming out on top in the sport that he loves most.
Bunting began fishing after his father introduced it to him when he was just five years old. At first, Bunting didn’t exactly understand what was involved in fishing. Nevertheless, he quickly mastered all the ropes, proving that he had a great deal of potential in the sport.
Fishing not only became Bunting’s favorite hobby, but also a significant part of his life. His devotion and undeniable passion for fishing has driven him to compete in local, state and national tournaments.
Bunting was inspired to enter his first tournament at the age of 14 after watching professional tournaments on television. His first competition was called the Junior Flatsmaster Tournament in Punta Gorda, Florida. On the day of the tournament, Bunting checked in bright and early at 6:00 a.m. The competitors then had until 2:00 p.m. to catch a legal slot redfish. Despite it being Bunting’s first time competing, he managed to advance to the elite six by weighing in the heaviest redfish between 18 to 27 inches. After competing in a second round, Bunting proudly took first place in his division. After winning his first tournament, he realized how much he truly loved the sport.
“A lot of people think that fishing is boring,” Bunting said. “But it has taught me important life lessons, like patience and perseverance.”
Bunting has made fishing a priority in his life. He has fished all along the coast of Florida, and throughout various regions of the Florida Keys. He doesn’t have a preference when it comes to the type of fish he catches, but he does favor competing in Redfish Tournaments. One of Bunting’s most memorable events was competing in the junior division of the ESPN Redfish Cup. The Redfish Cup brings together the top red fishing teams in the nation, all the way from Texas to the Carolinas. The overall goal of the Cup was for contestants to catch the largest fish, competing against up to 55 opposing two-man teams. Only being able to use shrimp to lure and catch fish, Bunting placed 30th overall, out of over 200 contestants.
Bunting takes great pride in all of his accomplishments throughout his competitive fishing career. Some of his greatest achievements were catching a 65-pound sailfish and a seven-foot bull shark.
“I am very proud of my numerous recognitions and awards,” Bunting said. “I’ve won cash prizes, rods and reels, trophies, plaques and paintings.”
Although his number one love and commitment is towards fishing, Bunting is actively involved in swimming, water polo and soccer. His talent is diverse and well rounded, but fishing holds his heart.
When looking towards the future, Bunting is eagerly looking forward to his eighteenth birthday, when he will be eligible to enter adult tournaments with his friends.
Although many perceive fishing as just a recreational activity, for Bunting it is so much more than that. His hard work, determination and passion for the sport has inspired him to strive for excellence. He has won numerous awards and his remarkable efforts are truly commendable. Even though his future goals in fishing are undecided, it is evident that fishing will always be a significant part of this angler’s life.
“My favorite thing about fishing is that you really never know what you are going to catch.” Bunting said. “Every time I go out to fish, I think today could be the day I catch the fish of a lifetime.”
