Women of the Water
During a recent conversation with our only female first mate with a captain’s license, it is clear that Vivian McPherson is quite proud to be in a long line of historical women of the water, even if some of those other women were pirates. She’s a pirate of a different kind, she earns her spoils. Anglers of all ages really respond to Viv and one stroll through the reviews for Sinbad Sportfishing and it’s clear their anglers come onboard as guests and leave as first-name friends. One review sums up Viv well, “Don’t let little bitty Viv fool you! She’s no sissy when it comes to fishing! She is a top notch mate with excellent fishing skills, advice, and is funny as heck!”
When asked why she chose this line of work, she replies, “I love the challenge! We leave out of the slip with great anticipation on every trip and I love being on the water and in the elements. The weather, the families, the wildlife, it’s all part of an amazing experience and I get to repeat it every day!” Viv treats her anglers to some wonderful conversation and it’s very evident the kids love her as can be seen by the big, bright smiles captured in the lens. We’ve been told here at the booking desk by some of the youngsters that “Miss Viv talks in funny voices” and those statements are completely believable. It’s obvious the impact of their saltwater adventure with “Miss Viv” was positive and the angling community needs more of those youngsters to develop a love of fishing to continue the tradition.
Viv is a role model to all youngsters aboard her boat, summoning her “Mom” traits and showing boys and girls all the same love and attention. She definitely resonates with the girls, even the teenage girls, and her actions will speak louder than any word spoken. Many Dads have commented in reviews of how appreciative they are with Viv’s interaction with their daughters. These girls see a female performing a job she loves with amazing agility, skill, passion, and with a great deal of class, yet with a toughness equal to any male mate on the roster. She’s earned their respect, too.
Viv started out her career on the commercial side and mixed in the charters. When asked what prompted her to become a captain, she replies, “It was another challenge. I went with a group of 22 to take the captain’s license exam in Charleston “a few years ago” and it was a great group to be with. A couple of other ladies went that day, as well, and some are running charters around the Outer Banks and one is a ferry boat captain now, so I’m in good company.” She became Oregon Inlet’s first female captain and is in her 3rd decade representing an impressive group of ladies.
When asked why anglers should fish with her, she replies, “We’re very lucky to keep seeing repeat families from year to year. We love the business, it’s our livelihood and we truly enjoy working together in our family dynamic and enjoy being part of your family dynamic for the day. Even before you step onboard the Sinbad, I try to treat you all like you live next door……in a good way, though! We love it when everything comes together and our nice folks can get the benefit of it. We work hard, within the boundaries of nature, to get you on the fish and get fish on the boat.” Viv is quick to share tips on proper storage and some delicious ways to prepare your catch! She is well-versed in her craft and we’re proud to regard her as a valuable member of the Oregon Inlet Charter Boat Fleet.