DALLAS — While many businesses are struggling during the pandemic, one North Texas fishing company is keeping busy. Their business model is giving clients the chance to take part in a beloved hobby while safely social-distancing.
Private Water Fishing is a club that gives customers the ultimate fishing experience by giving them access to a lake that they can rent out for themself. One of their private lakes is located 20 miles south of Dallas and includes 30 acres of prime fishing spaces. It's similar to an Airbnb, but it offers club members access to more than 80 privately-owned lakes in Texas and Oklahoma.
Club member Kevin Fuller spends a lot of time fishing at his private North Texas retreat in Wilmer, Texas. For the last six years, he's rented lakes all around North Texas through Private Water Fishing. Fuller's membership came in handy when the pandemic sparked crowds at public lakes.
“To me this is like church, this is getting to see God’s handy-work up close, and live in it, and appreciate it, and enjoy it,” said Fuller. “There are a lot of times when I just need a little time for my soul to heal-up, especially in this goofy world we’re living in right now.”
Fuller has a stressful job working as a divorce lawyer in Dallas. When he's not working, he's enjoying his time off fishing.
"My job in that environment is to be a peacemaker and to be a calming influence," said Fuller. "I try to do that.”
Fuller doesn't just rent the lake to enjoy the sport, but says he rents the space for peace. It's something he's needed lately as the pandemic has him extremely cautious when it comes to social distancing.
“My wife and I and our family have taken all of that very seriously and so being able to get out of the house, and get so far out of the house," said Fuller. "I mean come out to the county, get to do a little bit of fishing and it’s truly been a godsend to have that to do in this crazy time.”
Private Water Fishing General Manager Scott Quigley says fishers who are seeking solitude like Fuller have given a dent in new memberships.
“We have over 700 members now and we’ve seen membership grow about 25%," said Quigley. "Before, we’d have to get the word out there about private water fishing. Now our members are telling their friends, bringing their friends and guests so they’re signing up.”
If you're interested and would like to find out more about Private Water Fishing, click here for more information.
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