Hi, I’m Makai Macdonald, the guy behind Mac Fishes. Born and raised in the stunning Lake District, I spent more time with a fishing rod in my hand than a pencil. I was that kid who swapped out algebra for trout! By the time I was 8, I had mastered the fine art of fly fishing on the River Cocker, River Derwent, and the beautiful Crummock Water. While other kids were glued to cartoons, I was knee-deep in the river, trying to convince a trout that my fly was, in fact, a tasty treat.
Fast forward to my late twenties, and I found myself in Brighton, where the sea was the closest thing to my childhood rivers and lakes. Admittedly, I took a break from fishing for a few years (it’s true, I lost my way). But eventually, the call of the water was too strong to resist. Living next to the coast meant sea fishing was my go-to, and I became obsessed with bass fishing. Who knew chasing bass could be as exhilarating as fly fishing for trout?
Now, I make regular trips to Wales to rekindle my love for fly fishing on the River Usk, a place that reminds me of my childhood days in the Lake District. And while I’m not dodging waves on my fishing kayak (yes, I bought my first one this year—no capsizing stories… yet), you can find me trying out new bass spots on the South Coast.
At Mac Fishes, I combine my lifelong love of fishing with a few good stories and some hard-won experience. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just curious, I hope my tales from the riverbank, the coast, and my kayak bring a smile to your face and maybe inspire you to pick up a rod (or at least avoid doing your homework).
Tight lines and bad jokes, Makai