“Catching Memories” is the mission of Reel Guppy Outdoors, a free youth fishing program founded by Kevin Brannon. Seeing a need in his community, Brannon realized many kids longed for someone to take them fishing, just as he had done with his own children. His inspiration came from his own childhood, growing up in a low-income, single-parent household after the loss of his father. Life became a cycle of foster homes and shelters, leaving Brannon with uncertainty and hardship.
Living near the Port Hueneme Pier, Brannon found solace in fishing, often using salvaged fishing lines and hooks. Armed with a tin can as his makeshift fishing pole and leftover bait from the pier, he became a modern-day Huck Finn, finding peace and escape in the ocean.
By the age of 9, Brannon began working aboard local party boats, assisting passengers with fishing. The boats gave him a sense of safety, purpose, and solitude, which further fueled his passion for the sport and helping others. These experiences eventually shaped the foundation of what would become Reel Guppy Outdoors.
More than 25 years later, Brannon produces Reel Anglers Fishing Show California, which includes the Reel Guppy Outdoors program. His goal is to pass along his connection with the ocean, using fishing as a tool to foster self-worth, leadership, and success in the youth he mentors. The same survival skills that once saved him are now helping a new generation thrive.
Brannon also created Ocean of Opportunity, a program that brings California’s marine ecosystems to students through interactive simulations. In these lessons, classrooms explore piers, lakes, rivers, and tide pools, with a particular focus on the nearby Channel Islands National Park. Using props, artificial lures, and displays, students learn about marine life, responsible fishing, and conservation. The program includes an in-class clinic and an outdoor fishing trip, where participants practice knot-tying, explore wildlife, and engage in team-building activities.
The Reel Guppy Learning Center expands on this with hands-on marine education, video production, and media skills, empowering young people to connect responsibly with their local waters. To date, the program has served over 7,000 children, all free of charge.
On September 7, 2024, the Port Hueneme City Council recognized Brannon as one of the 2024 Hueneme Heroes Award recipients, honoring his significant contributions to the community. This recognition, as a hometown hero, was perhaps Brannon’s most meaningful award.
For more information about Reel Guppy Outdoors, please visit: www.reelguppyoutdoors.com.
