Mitchel Zelman

Mitchel Zelman spearfishing2

Mitchel Zelman grew up in Florida and has always had an entrepreneurial mindset. At only 18 years of age, he got an insurance license and then completed a Bachelor of Science in Risk Management and Insurance.

Mitchel is also an investor and co-owner of Noodle Station, a fast-casual Asian restaurant. With the ever-growing interest in healthier eating, ramen happens to be the perfect dish to fit this trend.
Combining great taste with healthy ingredients, Mitchel is able to bring a quality bowl of goodness for all of his happy customers. Noodle Station is truly a labor of love for Mitchel. He takes great pride in running this business and is always looking for ways to improve the customer experience.

Mitchel brings that same passion and ambition to his personal life, whether it’s giving back to the community in charity events like the ironman triathlon for the Children’s Cancer Foundation or donating his time to local fishing committees.

What is your hobby?

Fishing and Spearfishing

 

Mitchel Zelman spearfishing

 

How did you get started with this hobby?

I have multiple interests and hobbies, but I would say fishing and spearfishing are my main hobbies. I enjoy getting out on the water and spending time with friends, trying to catch some fish. I couldn’t think of anything else i would rather be doing

I actually grew up around the water, so I’ve been doing it for a while now. I think what inspires me the most is the challenge of trying to catch a fish in a specific spot and then getting to enjoy the fish in a great dish afterwards with everyone.

Tell us what you love about your hobby.

I really look forward to getting out on the water. Being able to enjoy nature is one of the main things I love about it. And of course, the challenge of trying to catch a fish always makes it fun, especially when spending this time with friends. I also like to raise awareness of environmental-friendly fishing practices with the community.

What types of things/equipment have you spent money on for your hobby?

The first thing one needs for spearfishing in particular is a fishing license. Once you have that all set, you will need the following:
– slings, pole spears, or a speargun
– spearfishing knife
– wet suit and a rash guard – the last thing you want is to get a wetrash anywhere on your body.
– weight belt
– mask, snorkel, and gloves
– water/flipper booties and freediving fins
– dive computer
– floatlines, floats, and/or reels

What are some of your favorite places to shop for your hobby?

 

Mitchel Zelman headshot

 

I buy most of my fishing supplies from local tackle shops. There are a lot of great deals to be found, and I’ve found that the quality of the products are usually pretty good.

How much money have you invested into this? How much would a beginner have to invest to get started?

I don’t have an exact number on the cost per say, but I do want to say that it is important to buy quality gear for spearfishing.

Are there any good books for beginners?

I’m not sure about books specifically for beginners, but there are a lot of great fishing magazines out there that can help you get started. They usually have tips from experienced fishermen, as well as product reviews and listings of upcoming events.

Are there any online videos you recommend to help beginners?

I’m a member of a few fishing clubs, more recently I have become a member of the Fishing Committee of Lighthouse Point Yacht Club. I try to go to as many events as possible, also volunteering or participating in them as well.

How has your hobby changed your life?

One thing that I’ve learned from fishing is patience. It definitely takes time and patience and perseverance to be successful at it, and that has carried over into my professional life. I’ve also developed a better appreciation for nature, and I think that’s helped me become a more well-rounded person.

What advice do you have for others starting out with this hobby?

My advice would be to get out and practice as much as possible. The more you fish, the better you’ll become. And don’t forget to have fun with it – that’s what it’s all about. However, it’s important to be safe while fishing, so make sure you know the local regulations and how to properly handle a fish.