Ric Burnley
“Thank God my dad wasn’t a podiatrist,” Ric jokes about following in the footsteps of a famous outdoor writer. After graduating from Radford University and serving two years in Russia with the Peace Corps, Ric returned to Virginia Beach and started writing for The Fisherman magazine, where his dad was editor. When the kayak fishing scene exploded, Ric was among the first to get onboard. His 2007 book, The Complete Kayak Fisherman is one of the first how-to books to introduce anglers to paddle fishing. In 2010, Ric took on the role of editor at Kayak Angler magazine where he covered the latest trends in kayak fishing tactics, tackle, gear and destinations. A ravenous angler, Ric fishes from the mountain to the sea chasing everything from smallmouth bass to striped bass.
Top 7 Trends In Kayak Fishing Right Now
Change happens fast in kayak fishing. In just 20 years, we’ve gone from recreational kayaks with rod holders to mini-motorboats with five-figure price tags....
Fishing Kayak Review: Vibe Hydra 130
The current landscape for fishing kayaks is dominated by pedals and motors, but a throwback paddle kayak may be the most important new boat...
Essential Gear For Beginner Anglers
You bought the kayak, paddle, PFD and safety equipment. You already have fishing rods, tackle boxes, lures and rigs. What’s next? In addition to...
Best Kayak Fish Finders For 2026
Kayak anglers want to have our cake and eat it, too. We want the convenience of a small, plastic boat and the fishing capability...
The Best Bass Lures For Winter
Cold temperatures and short days make bass, and bass anglers, lethargic. But hardy souls who brave the elements are rewarded with the biggest bass...
Best Saltwater Spinning Reels For 2026
Here's an observation I’ve picked up over five decades fishing the Virginia coast: spinning reels and saltwater do not mix. The spinning reel’s moving...
The Native Watercraft Hammer Is Built To Rig Without Forgetting Its...
The Native Watercraft Hammer is a full-featured, full-on fishing kayak with the ability to rig with motors, pedals, accessories and the whole nine yards.
The...
Beginners Guide To Kayak Fishing: Boats & Gear
Ancient Chinese philosopher Laozi says the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. For beginner kayak anglers, the journey begins with the...
Sea Eagle Unleashes An Inflatable Kayak Ready To Keep Up With...
A lot of people want to get into kayak fishing, but they don't have the space or means for transporting one of the hulking...
Best Spinning Reels For 2026
Spinning reels are more popular than ever. Once considered beginner tackle, they’ve gained pro-angler attention for finesse fishing and forward-facing sonar. As a result,...
