Mike Cooke talks about his trip with FWAF
On Tuesday, April 15th, 2025 I scheduled a Bass Fishing Trip with CPT Neal Stark. CPT Stark
Leads Fishing With Americas Finest. My intent was to get some fresh air, destress after finishing taxes, and
go to my happy place with fishing. To my surprise the trip was a bottom of the 9th, World Series Grand Slam on all counts.
CPT Stark is a consummate Bass Fishing Pro whose technical expertise was unmatched in my experience. Immediately I
was impressed by his comments on how to steward the flora and fauna of the Everglades. While we moved to the
'Spot' I breathed in the fresh air and cool breeze. CPT Neal, as I called him, was gregarious and pointed out the abundance of
Gators sunning and diving when the boat approached their territory. He also explained some of the consequences of the drought
we are currently experiencing in South Florida. He even shared that he had attended a Bass Pro tournament the previous Sunday.
I knew then that the trip already great and was keen on taking notes to improve my fishing skills.
CPT Neal found the perfect spot and we started catching fish like they were in a barrel. He expertly answered all of my questions,
and even more inspiring was that he physically walked me through his expert tips. Again, I was impressed, for as a Army SGT I hail from the
show me by the numbers school. I had no illusions catching fish was due to my skill, for his technical and tactical fishing prowess was supreme.
He chose the perfect spot, line, bait, hook, rods etc. I just listened and took notes to ensure this gift trip was not wasted.
I will highly recommend Fishing with Americas Finest, specifically CPT Neal to all my Veteran comrades. His attention to detail and love of
fishing was amazingly inspiring for a Veteran who deals with PTSD. Our group all had a Funtastic time, plenty of water/great lunch,
caught many fish, took home fish to cook, and the privilege of meeting a genuinely good person. Many thanks, a proper salute, and blessings to CPT Neal
Stark. His vision of helping veterans through fishing in the Everglades continues to be a touchdown.
Cool Runnings & Respect;
Michael A. Cooke
AKA SGT Cooke