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.
The Best New Z-Man Lures For 2025
I ran into Drew Gregory, Bassmaster Kayak Series Champion and host of the Kayak Angler Series tournament trail at the Z-Man booth where we...
The Best New YakAttack Gear For 2025
When I saw it in person at the YakAttack booth, the new CommandCenter CrossBar impressed me with its versatility and durability. It’s just one...
Cashion Introduces Pro-Designed Kayak Rods
With the input of pro anglers Jody Queen and Cory Dreyer, Cashion created four tactic-specific kayak rods that offer features with added advantages for...
First Look: Smith Hookset Sunglasses
I remember the day I noticed a fishing guide wearing Smith sunglasses. When I tried on his shades, I understood why many pros have...
First Look: Suspenz YellowFin Rigging Station
I have always been jealous of my friends who built sturdy rigging stands out of hardware store supplies. Not only can they store their...
First Look: Sea Eagle FishSUP 1210
Sea Eagle owner and designer Cecil Hoge once told me he loves working with inflatable watercraft because the platform offers unlimited options for creativity...
First Look: Torqeedo Travel UL
Back before kayaks with electric motors were cool, Torqeedo produced the first reliable electric outboard systems for small boats. Now, there are several companies...
Guardian Angel Adds Kayak Lighting Solutions
One safety item I never leave the launch without is a compact safety light. Even if I don’t plan to fish past dark, I...
First Look: Garmin Force Kraken 48 And Panoptix PS22-IF
Answering the call from small boaters, Garmin is adding a 48-inch shaft to its line of Kraken trolling motors, while the new Panoptix PS22-IF...
First Look: NRS Boundary 100
Packrafts are popular with anglers looking to reach distant fishing areas far from roads and trails. However, a light and super buoyant raft is...
