Often fishermen on a guided trip become so focused on the fish they forget about the world around them. In fact, the ability to escape from the world is a very big reason sportsmen spend time in the field and on the water. Videographers lack that luxury; they must constantly survey the area for background while also listening to the guide in an attempt to stay ahead of the fisherman.

According to videographer, Jake Latendresse, “In many ways I’m seeing far more than the fisherman. A good example is when I’m filming for Bassmaster. I have to be extremely focused on the pro in the front of the boat. I watch every small move and listen to every word he speaks. In the meantime, I’m watching the water, the sky and the shoreline to provide the best footage. And every now and then, when the work is finished, I get to pick up a rod. Heck, I got into this because I’m a sportsman.”

Jake is the owner of Latendresse Media in Fort Collins, CO. In addition to Bassmaster, he films for Into the Blue, The Saltwater Experience, RNTV and numerous other shows and companies in the outdoor industry. His travels, camera in hand, have taken him to over 20 states; from stripers on the Atlantic Coast to Alaska and everywhere in between. He’s also filmed in such far-flung destinations as Mongolia, Africa, Canada and Bolivia.

“My first trip to South Florida was a little over four years ago, but I’ve been many times since. I’ve filmed from just above Jupiter down to Florida Bay, and I’ve managed to film at every Key. Historically, I have nothing to compare it to, but as a landlocked American angler, I’d characterize the fishing as awesome! I mean, how much better could it get than filming Ryan Nitz catch 40 inch snook or another angler jumping a monster tarpon in Florida Bay?

“But then I listen to the locals. I hear concern in their voices. I hear about changes in the species available, rising (or lowering) salinity and changes in migration patterns. They talk about algae blooms and vast beds of seagrass disappearing. People are concerned, and something has to give.

“I’m aware of plans to hold water south of Okeechobee in hopes of lessening the impact of discharges on estuaries while also restoring more flow to the Everglades, and it needs to happen. It needs to happen yesterday. There’s awesome fishing in South Florida and the Glades, but it can’t stand the assault forever.”