Today we’d like to introduce you to David Leventhal
Hi David, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started fishing because I thought it would be a great bonding experience for myself and my son. Little did I know the impact it was going to have on me. It quickly grew into my new passion and is a borderline obsession at this point. It had been a long time since I felt so much excitement and joy from something new.
Although still very much an amateur, I am completely driven to make fishing a bigger part of my life and hopefully into a career in the not too distant future. It is my goal to become a guide, captain and eventually when my kids are adults, get a degree in marine biology. Which has been a dream of mine since I was a child. I’ve always had a deep passion for the sea and the beautiful creatures within. Life sometimes just goes in a different direction than expected, but if your goals remain the same you will eventually reach them.
As of now the West Coast style of “Surface Iron” fishing has become my passion. I think it is just such a unique and special style of fishing. Specifically for Yellow Tail, one of my favorite fish to eat and just admire in general. They are amazingly powerful and beautiful fish. They go by many different names around the world “King Fish” being one to mention.
I still have much to learn and need plenty more time and experience on the water, but surface iron fishing is already special to me. I am excited for what the future will bring and to become closer with the community that surrounds our amazing sport.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I am still at the beginning of the road and can’t say it has been smooth or rough. I know there is a long road ahead of me to try and build a successful brand around something I love. I don’t expect it to be easy and I am not completely certain it’s going to work, but I am motivated and believe that I can create something that I’m proud of. I have to have faith that others will appreciate and support my brand and the things I plan to make.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’ve been a customer carpenter for 20+ years. I would say I have a very unique and creative style. I built custom camper vans for a few years and that allowed me to hone and develop my style. Fishing is just a passion of mine but I plan to incorporate my woodworking skills into certain products for my brand.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I see the industry slowly changing. Some companies and younger guys bringing a fresh style and outlook to the fishing world. Which I enjoy and want to be a part of. There will always be the foundation and importance of tradition and practice of the old ways, but I’m enjoying this new phase of style and creativity, which is bringing a more modern mentality to the industry. A lot of handmade goods and craftsman are starting to show through. I believe this is good for everyone and makes it feel more like a community.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/iron_lung_fishing
