Where Passion Meets Performance

LUND: How old were you when you started fishing and what species did you mainly fish for in your youth?

MPJ: I started fishing when I was 4 years old. My grandfather would take me and my cousin to the lake in his community (River Lakes in Bakersfield, Calif.). We would catch bass, catfish, bluegill and crappie. We also would fish the California aqueduct for stripers. Growing up we mainly targeted bass and catfish. When I was about 8, my grandfather took me to the pier in Ventura, Calif. to fish. During that trip we caught a small leopard shark and a stingray. That is when I was introduced to saltwater fishing – and got hooked.

LUND: With your busy life as a pro footballer and parent, what draws you to make time for fishing?

MPJ: For me, fishing is a way to de-stress. I love to be outdoors and share those experiences with the people I love. Sometimes we get going so fast in our day-to-day life, we don’t appreciate the beauty in God’s creation. Getting on the water and watching the sunrise is the perfect way to slow me down. Everyone has different ways to mitigate stress in their life – mine is being outdoors. During the season, I don’t usually have time to take day trips, but I always make time to fish a local pond. The two ponds outside our practice facility have some pretty big bass in them.

LUND: What's been your most memorable catch on the football field? And your most memorable catch out on the water?

MPJ: My most memorable football catch so far in my career has to be the game winner against Tennessee during the 2023-2024 season. My most memorable catch on the water is the blue marlin I caught in 2022 off the coast of Kauai.

LUND: We know the importance of having a competitive mindset on the football field. Does that also apply to your fishing passion? Do you have any dream fishing goals you want to accomplish?

MPJ: Absolutely, I enjoy fishing for the love of it, but when you add competition, it offers an opportunity to up your personal game. When I do anything, I do it to be the best. I’m always learning and adapting new techniques. One day I would love to run the Billfish circuit or become a pro bass fisherman.

LUND: What's your favorite body of water to fish, and what makes it spot special to you?

MPJ: I love anywhere I can catch a fish. If I had to choose one spot to fish the rest of my life it would be the waters of southern California. The Pacific Coast of California has a vast diversity in game species to enjoy. From jumbo Bluefin tuna all the way to calico bass there is something for everybody.

LUND: Being successful on the football field requires a lot of practice and physical work outs. What do you do to improve your fishing knowledge/skills?

MPJ: The best way to improve your skills is to fish in your area so you understand the fishery that you’re in. I also lean on other fishermen who have experience in the area. I love to go to fishing expos and watch lots of YouTube videos.

LUND: Describe your perfect day on the water.

MPJ: My perfect day on the water starts somewhere between 4:30 and 5 a.m. with a coffee in my hand. I lay out all my equipment the night before, so I don’t forget anything. I like to get to the ramp before first light, lock my phone in the storage box, play some music, ensure the cooler is stocked with food and drink and be heading to my first spot while the sun is rising. After that I just enjoy the day, and if we catch some fish that's a bonus!

Michael will be sharing content throughout the year that he captures while fishing in his Lund 2075 Impact XS. 

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