Reel Time: Using push poles

Push poles have been used to propel boats for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. Today’s push poles have come a long way since...

Reel Time: The re-making of Perico Preserve

Perico Preserve is a Manatee County jewel. But this gem wouldn’t have become a reality without the vision and determination of a few key...

Reel Time: The making of Perico Preserve

Nestled just off the edge of Perico Bayou, a slender body of water that connects Tampa Bay and Palma Sola Bay, Perico Preserve would...

Reel Time: New Year’s resolutions

New Year’s resolutions are an annual ritual. It’s a time to look back and reflect on what matters most, how we feel about our...

Reel Time: Luck is when opportunity meets preparedness

Whether you're fishing local water, stalking bonefish in the Bahamas, poling a flat in Charlotte Harbor for tailing redfish, or any number of angling...

Rusty Chinnis

Rusty Chinnis is an avid fly fisherman, a photojournalist and a retired building contractor in addition to being a passionate defender of the local environment's importance to the health and economy of the area. A 42-year resident of Longboat Key and Manatee County, he is chairman of the board of Suncoast Waterkeeper, a founder and former co-chairman of the Sister Keys Conservancy, and founder and chairman emeritus of Sarasota Bay Watch in addition to being The Sun's Outdoors columnist. Email