Q: What is your name?
A: JM “Chico” Fernandez
Q: Can you share a bit about your background?
A: Born in Cuba. Fishing since age 6. Started fly fishing in 1956; I am quite sure I am the first Cuban fly fisherman.
Q: What boat do you use?
A: Hell’s Bay Professional
Q: What is your favorite fly?
A: For suspending a big fly in front of a big snook or redfish, my Sea-Ducer. For fun, a slider—the strikes are unforgettable.
Q: What is your favorite river or body of water?
A: I’ve fished a great part of the world, but I have a love affair with the Everglades.
Q: What is your favorite type of fishing?
A: Fly fishing with my son Stephen. Fishing with a good friend is next.
Q: What is your favorite fish?
A: Snook… well, big snook. They still make me nervous when I cast at one.
Q: What is your favorite Nautilus reel?
A: NV for 6 and 7 weight, NV-G 8/9 for 8.
Q: What was your best day fishing?
A: Circa 1965, John “Little John” Emery and I took over 70 reds in Flamingo.
Q: What is your dream fishing destination?
A: Bolivia for dorado or a houseboat in the Everglades.
Q: Who would you like to fish with one day?
A: Jacqueline Bisset—if she lets me.
Q: Where can people get your autograph?
A: At the Florida Keys Fly Fishing School or at boat shows.
Q: What do you do when you’re not fishing?
A: I may be cooking or going through my extensive library of bass books and recordings.
Q: What do you like best about Nautilus reels?
A: Ideal proportions, very light so they balance with the new super light fly rods, and very reliable. Love them.
