MELANIE Jane Nast passed away last week, just days short of her 46th birthday. She leaves behind 4 children, the youngest just turned 8, after the recent death of well known angler Todd Young who was the father of the three oldest children.
Melanie was best known for her partnership with Todd Young in the Young Guns Fishing Adventures, undertaking numerous promotions of recreational fishing. Melanie was especially dedicated to helping youth at risk and the underprivileged, giving young people a chance to experience the outdoors and fishing.
Melanie was a champion caster, exceptional angler and amazing communicator. She had a presence on radio and was often seen at boat and tackle shows where she was also a pioneer in getting women involved in fishing.
Melanie was passionate about fishing and did not suffer fools lightly. She stood up for misogyny in recreational fishing but also promoted strongly family values in fishing. Melanie was dedicated and was one of those people that telling her that something was impossible would invoke her energy to try her very best to implement innovative and ground breaking initiatives.
Behind the scenes, Melanie suffered from generalised dystonia which caused her muscles to contract. When in the midst of a “dystonic storm” Melanie’s vocal chords would be affected, giving her a strong southern USA accent – straight out of “Gone with the Wind”. Less cosmetic impacts included spasms tearing her Achilles tendon from the bone – yet Melanie continued to work to promote fishing and nursing Todd as his lung issues become more debilitating.
The dystonia masked the real culprit which ultimately claimed Melanie’s life way too soon. She had the genetic disorder Alpha 1 antitripsin deficiency. This inhibits the ability of the lungs to stay moist and absorb oxygen.
Melanie taught thousands of young people to fish and touched the lives of many. She will be sadly missed and leaves a legacy which will endure. Melanie’s bravery and stoicism sends a clear message to us all – take the time to go fishing when you are able and pass on the skills to the next generation.
