Meet Eric Zwierzchowski—a lifelong angler whose journey began on the shores of Detroit and has since evolved into a deep passion for the art of fishing. From childhood adventures at Belle Isle to mastering the complex waterways of the Detroit River, Eric’s story is a celebration of persistence, discovery, and the simple joy of casting a line into the water.
From Detroit Beginnings to a Lifelong Passion
Eric’s love for fishing started in the heart of Detroit.
"I was born and raised in the heart of Detroit. As a kid, my parents would often take me to Belle Isle—the only island in Detroit—to fish. My dad wasn’t a fisherman, but he gave me the opportunity to cast my line as often as I wanted."
Those early days led to countless adventures. As a teenager, Eric spent his summers shore fishing on the Detroit River. Though success was mixed during those initial attempts, it sparked a determination in him: one day, he would need a boat to truly unlock the secrets of the river. That day finally arrived in his late 30s, marking the start of a new chapter in his angling journey.
Mastering the Detroit River
When it comes to fishing techniques, Eric is a firm believer in the power of vertical jigging.
"My preferred method of fishing is vertical jigging in the Detroit River."
He explains that the Detroit River isn’t just a body of water—it’s a living piece of history. During the Prohibition era, the river served as a clandestine route between a country where alcohol was legal and one where it wasn’t. Remnants of failed contraptions from that time now rest on the riverbed, creating unique habitats for a diverse array of fish.
The river’s rich tapestry of history and its unpredictable nature make every fishing trip an adventure. Eric’s encounters on the water have been as varied as the species he’s pursued—ranging from walleye and pike to silver bass, sturgeon, gar pike, whitefish, eel pout, and even muskie. Among his many memorable moments, he recalls:
"My biggest catch in this river is a 50-inch muskie that I hooked while jigging for walleye. I’m sure I’ve hooked bigger fish; I just was never able to land them."
Words of Wisdom for Fellow Anglers
Fishing isn’t just about technique—it’s about mindset, persistence, and a bit of luck. Eric cherishes a piece of advice that has guided him through the years:
"You can't catch anything unless your line is in the water."
— Bruce Hickmott
For those dipping their toes into the world of crappie fishing, Eric offers a simple yet invaluable tip:
"Nighttime is the right time."
This nugget of wisdom reminds all anglers that sometimes, the best catches happen when you step out of your comfort zone and embrace the night.
Beyond the Water: Exploring the World
When he’s not chasing fish in the Detroit River, Eric loves to explore the world with his wife. Their travels often include opportunities to fish in new and exciting locations, merging his passion for angling with his love of adventure. This balance between work, play, and passion for fishing encapsulates the essence of what it means to be an angler at heart.
A Proud Member of the WindRider Family
Eric’s journey with fishing naturally led him to join the WindRider team—a small company known for its commitment to quality and its genuine support for its products.
"I love the idea of WindRider—a small company producing quality products and that backs their products."
When it comes to gear, Eric finds it hard to choose just one favorite, but he’s particularly fond of his Hayward suit.
"I love how warm it is, how it floats if needed, and all the adjustments I can make to it."
This suit isn’t just another piece of equipment—it’s a testament to how the right gear can enhance every fishing expedition, providing both comfort and versatility on the water.
Stay Connected
Want to follow along with Eric’s fishing adventures and get more tips on exploring the Detroit River and beyond? Check out his online presence:
- Website: DetroitFishing.com
- YouTube: CaptainzCharters5712
- Facebook: Captainzcharters
- Instagram: @Captainzcharters
- Email: CaptainZ@DetroitFishing.com
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, Eric’s story and insights remind us that every cast, every adventure, and every piece of advice contributes to the rich tapestry of our fishing lives. So next time you head out on the water, remember—your best catch might just be waiting where history meets the present. Happy fishing!