With decades of experience, Sault-based angler Dean Lapham is helping others discover the joys of fishing

Fishing is a huge part of Dean Lapham’s life.

During the spring, summer and fall, Lapham – a seasoned angler and owner of Redwood Sportfishing Charters – takes clients on fishing trips along the St. Marys River and parts of Lake Superior.

“The one thing about the St. Marys River that’s really nice is that you can get a real mixed bag of fish,” Lapham told SooToday.

“On some days when we’re out there, we’ll get king salmon, we’ll get a walleye, we’ll get a pink salmon, we’ll get a rainbow trout and maybe even an Atlantic salmon. And that’s all in one day.”

A university graduate with a degree in accounting, Lapham works as an income tax professional during the winter months.

“I pretty much got the fishing bug when I was about 12 years old. A friend of the family took me out fishing and after that I was hooked,” Lapham said.

He began working for his father – Dale Lapham – when he was in his teens.

Dale Lapham, who died in 2009, was an experienced hunting and fishing guide who went on to own and operate Redwood Charters and the Redwood Motel near Wawa.

“I worked for my father up there and I really enjoyed getting out to fish every day. It also gave me a thrill to see other people happy and reeling in fish,” Lapham said.

Following in his father’s footsteps as an outdoorsman and entrepreneur, Lapham established Redwood Sportfishing Charters, based in the Sault, in 1996.

Lapham enjoys the interaction he has with his clients.

“Most of the people I take out are experienced in fishing but I also get newcomers to the Sault, who want to know about the things to do here. I teach them how to cast, how to reel. I live and breathe fishing and enjoy teaching others about it.”

Lapham said he is out on the water with clients five days a week during the summer season.

“I get satisfied when people at the end of the day come and shake my hand and say, ‘You know what? We’ve really had a good time. We’ve enjoyed hanging out with you.’”

A sense of fun and laughter is essential on fishing trips, Lapham said.

“I don’t want it to be a serious thing when I’m out there. This is their time to get away, to take in nature and to enjoy their surroundings and for newcomers to know a little bit more about Sault Ste. Marie.”