“I love fishing for tarpon,” beams Chrystal Murray. “Anywhere there are tarpon, or a hint of tarpon, or rumor of tarpon, any size, it doesn’t matter.” Beneath the floppy fishing hat and long blonde hair you can see the glint in her eyes, which can only mean one thing—genuine tarpon fever.

Most people are surprised when they learn that this friendly, approachable woman with the golden tresses and surf culture attitude routinely catches tarpon and sharks from a kayak, but for
Murray, this has become a lifestyle rather than an  occasional adventure.

She started kayak fishing almost 17 years ago and has not only witnessed both the birth and explosion of the sport, but has also contributed greatly to its development. As one of the first  members of the Ocean Kayak Pro Staff, Murray has had a lot of influence in the sport of kayak fishing through her clinics and seminars for both anglers and kayak outfitters alike. She has also been an advisor in design of some of the hottest fishing kayaks on the market, including several models designed specifically for women anglers.

Because of her knowledge of and enthusiasm for the sport, Murray is a popular speaker at fishing clubs and outdoor shows around Florida, but she has found a special place as both a teacher and spokesperson for women wanting to get involved with kayak fishing. Her advice for aspiring lady kayak anglers: “Learn to tie a couple of good knots for line to leader and leader to lure and stick with them.”

Don’t be surprised if you one day read that a woman has caught a 200-pound tarpon out of a kayak. Even if it doesn’t turn out to be Chrystal Murray, it will most likely be someone she has inspired. —Capt. Greg Bowdish