Alex Pickett’s Wish

In early June Alex’s wish to go fishing in the Florida Keys was granted by the Jose Wejebe Spanish Fly Memorial Foundation. His mom, dad, brother, and sister all joined him for three days on the water.  “This has been a long year, but when we were on our trip things could slow down, we could enjoy, and not have to worry.”  This was their time to leave reality at the dock, and just have fun.

Alex feeds some hungry lemon sharks

For their first day they met Captain Kenny Harris from Key West Extreme Adventures. Kenny was a long time friend, and fellow captain of Jose’s.  Being a fishing guide for over 30 years can do a number on your body, so Kenny exchanged his center console for a 34-foot catamaran.  They went out on the flats and saw a bunch of lemon sharks, and even got a chance to feed them.  Next stop was down a quiet channel where they spotted stingrays, turtles, and wading birds.  Finishing their tour on a high note Kenny brought them to an area commonly referred to as the “dolphin playground.”  It doesn’t matter if you’re an animal lover or not, dolphins will put a smile on anyone’s face. Alex and his family were all smiles. “We had such an amazing time with Ken.”

The next day they met Captain Mike Weinhofer of Compass Rose Charters

Fishing on the reef

at the Hurricane Hole in Key West.  The first day of fishing was spent on the reef catching sharks, and various types of snapper.  The wind picked up the second day, so Mike brought them fishing in the infamous Key West Harbor for tarpon.  Jose often referred to it as “the minefield”, since the harbor has many obstacles. Alex and his family went 1 for 8 with the silver kings. Feeling a little sore Mike decided to switch things up.  Alex had mentioned earlier in the trip that he wanted to learn how to throw a cast net.  Having an eight footer at home Alex had a general idea of how it’s done, but Mike added a few feet.  Mike patiently instructed Alex on how to load, and throw a sixteen-foot cast net. Jose would be so proud of Mike’s excellent ability of coaching Alex through the process, and setting him up for success.

Alex learns how to throw a cast net

While we were planning Alex’s wish I knew they would get a kick out of Mike. Catching up with the family after their trip I asked them what they thought of him.  “Well what can you say about Mike!  He is crazy! Crazy fun!!!”  And of course Shimano, Costa, Under Armour, and Yeti pitched in to add a little something special. “Where do we begin with the fishing gear we received? That was so cool!  It was like Christmas!!!!  We are thankful for Ken and Mike for taking their time to take us out on the water and just letting us enjoy ourselves. We are forever grateful for their generosity. We will NEVER forget our trip!”