In this episode of Pieces of Impact, I sit down with Erick Dent, a Charleston based photographer and fly fisherman whose life revolves around the outdoors.

We talk about balancing photography with fly fishing, building a personal brand through consistent work, and the unique challenges of fishing and filming in Charleston. The conversation also dives into fly fishing itself, including mindset, ethics, fly tying, and the philosophy behind catch and release. Along the way, we touch on wildlife encounters, DIY projects, and why time in nature has a way of cutting through the noise.

About Erick:

Erick Dent is a photographer based in Charleston, South Carolina, dedicated to promoting an active outdoor lifestyle. He has been shooting professionally for over 10 years, including several years as a full time photographer for Vineyard Vines, with work ranging from the Kentucky Derby to the Everglades.

Born and raised on the Gulf Coast of Florida, Erick developed a deep connection to the ocean and the natural world, preparing him to work in demanding environments where heat, cold, bugs, and sharks are part of the job. Outside of photography, he’s a semi-pro fly angler, practiced bush mechanic, amateur tailor, intentional vagabond, and animal control expert, to name a few.

00:00 Introduction to Erick Dent and His Journey

05:06 Life in Connecticut and Transition to Charleston

09:49 The Shift in Work Culture and Leaving Vineyard Vines

15:02 Daily Life and Photography in Fishing

20:07 Building Partnerships with Brands

24:45 Fishing Techniques and Experiences in Charleston

27:47 The Nuances of Fishing and Photography

33:09 Wildlife Encounters and Nature's Beauty

37:57 The Challenges of Fishing and Filming

43:01 Final Thoughts on Fishing and Life Lessons

51:46 Navigating the Challenges of Fly Fishing

54:36 The Ethics of Technology in Fishing

58:10 The Art and Science of Fly Tying

01:00:37 Catch and Release: A Fisherman's Philosophy

01:01:36 The Balance of Gear and Technique

01:04:49 Capturing the Moment: Photography on the Water

01:07:53 Exploring Diverse Fishing Species

01:10:37 Planning Fishing Trips: Strategy and Research

01:13:49 The Joy of DIY: Crafting and Tailoring

01:18:58 Understanding Wildlife: Animal Control Insights

01:22:57 Rapid Fire Round: Insights and Reflections

01:33:37 Final Thoughts: The Importance of Nature