Nick Kester, based in Snohomish, Washington, has been immersed in fishing since the age of 2, when his grandparents introduced him to the water. His love for the sport quickly grew, leading him to start working as a deckhand in Puget Sound in 1986. For the past 23 years, Nick has been running his own successful charter boat, helping others experience the thrill of fishing.
For Nick, fishing is about the challenge of locating and catching the species he is targeting and continuously learning about the water and the fish. As a charter captain, his favorite part of the job is knowing he is making someone’s dream come true. “You only get your first one, one time,” Nick says. “I know there are hundreds of photos of people with their first fish that I was part of.” These moments are what fuel his passion and make his work truly meaningful.
Nick spends most of his time fishing Puget Sound, focusing on salmon and lingcod. Among the many species he has pursued, King Salmon in Puget Sound hold a special place in his heart. However, his enthusiasm for fishing extends to everything from a 6-inch trout to a 600-pound marlin.
When it comes to gear, Nick relies on the Gibbs Guide Series Highliner flasher, with the Madi being his top choice. He appreciates its versatility, noting that it performs flawlessly at speeds ranging from 1.5 mph to 5 mph, making it the most reliable flasher he has ever used. For spoons, the Skinny G is his go-to, with his choice of color depending on the bait present in the water.
Nick’s passion for fishing, his commitment to creating unforgettable memories, and his dedication to helping others achieve their fishing dreams make him an invaluable member of the Gibbs Pro Team.
Follow Nick on Instagram: @capt.nick.kester.
