Twelve-year-old Lucy Moore of Perryville, Maryland, has become the state’s “Master Angler,” impressing fishermen many years her senior with her skills. Starting fishing at the age of two, Moore has continued her passion with the guidance of her dad, Nick Perez, who introduced her to the sport. Moore has achieved the highest honor in Maryland’s fishing community, the FishMaryland Master Angler Award, after catching 10 different species of fish, meeting the specific length requirements for each.
Maryland’s FishMaryland Milestone Awards recognize skilled anglers who catch trophy-sized catches of different species after January 1, 2019. Moore began her journey by earning the Angler Award unintentionally, then went on to achieve the Expert Angler Award by catching five different species. Her determination led her to pursue the top prize, the Master Angler Award, and after months of fishing in all weather conditions, she successfully caught her final fish and clinched the coveted title.
Moore’s Master Angler Award ceremony took place in July at Bass Pro Shop, where she was officially recognized for catching an impressive array of fish species. Her dedication to fishing saw her catching eight of the 10 required species in winter weather, with her father supporting her every step of the way. Despite Perez being an angler himself, both he and Moore agree that she is the better fisherman, with Moore jokingly acknowledging that her dad has yet to earn the Master Angler Award himself.
With over 10 years of fishing experience under her belt and well over 10,000 fish caught, Moore is a passionate angler with a love for the sport. Her preferred method of fishing is on the fly, and she has caught a variety of fish that many dream of, including exotic species like the clown knifefish and muskellunge. Moore’s love for the outdoors and marine life has inspired her to pursue a career as a marine biologist, where she hopes to make new discoveries.
Looking ahead, Moore has set her sights on breaking a Maryland state fishing record in the upcoming season. Her dedication, passion, and skills have not only earned her the prestigious Master Angler Award but have also inspired others to take up fishing. Through her achievements, Moore hopes to encourage more people, especially young girls, to discover and fall in love with the sport of fishing. Her success serves as a testament to the rewards of perseverance and determination in the pursuit of one’s passion.
