1 Name and birthplace?
Sami Omari, born and bred in Sydney, Australia.
2 When did you first start fishing?
My dad used to take me out fishing when I was in nappies, there are photos of me holding fish when I was two or three and I bought my first fishing magazine independently when I was about 8 years old – I guess I’ve been fishing for most of my life.
3 When did you start writing for Fisho?
I can’t recall the exact date but it was about a decade back, I remember the story fondly because it was about wading in the Parramatta river at night and I was subsequently informed of the number of bull sharks that frequent the stretch of river I fished.
Fishing for luderick on a Sydney rock platform.
4 What’s your favourite form of fishing?
That’s a tough one – I probably jig for kingfish mostly but my favourites change over the years. I love trying to figure stuff out when on the water and experimenting with new techniques – anything visual always appeals.
5 What do you enjoy about writing for a fishing magazine?
Reliving the memorable moments when preparing a story is always a highlight. I love the process of reviewing images and piecing together memories – sharing those experiences and giving pointers to help other anglers gives me a buzz. Getting to know other writers and people that share that enthusiasm for hitting the water rain hail or shine is another big plus!
Sami likes targeting snapper with both soft plastics and bait.
6 Who do you most admire in the fishing media and why?
When I first started writing I approached most of the editors in the fishing industry and must give credit and kudos to Fisho editor Jim Harnwell who took the time out to answer any question, gave encouraging yet objective feedback on any material I sent and welcomed me into the fold as a new writer. I also admire Dick Lewers who personally responded to each handwritten letter I wrote him as a kid; I used to read way too many fishing magazines growing up and those letters from Dick were more valuable to me than a letter from any dignitary or head of state. Vic McCristal is another who stands out from the crowd, his eclectic adventures and musings struck a chord with me as a youngster with an imaginative mind. Finally, the late Neil Tedesco was someone who I admired for his genuine on screen presence and humility.
7 What do you reckon is the best or most satisfying article you’ve written for Fisho?
I put together a series of DIY articles most months for an extended period and challenged myself to try and create pieces that had reasonable detail with plenty of images outlining the steps required. Juggling a camera, power tools and raw materials wasn’t always easy and it often took a few test runs to figure out an optimal design or process for the finished product so it was a definite labour of love! I had some great feedback, however, and saw images of people that had built their own DIY pieces off the back of those stories which made it all worthwhile.
A nice estuary perch caught on the NSW South Coast.
8 What camera gear do you use?
My camera kit comprises two Nikon D800e bodies coupled with 24-70 and 70-200 Nikkor lenses plus a 10.5mm fisheye and an SB900 speed light.
9 What advice can you give anyone wanting to get into the fishing media?
Tough question – on one hand it’s a challenge to make a decent fist of it and have a viable, full time career in fishing media, on the other hand, however, people have made it happen so it is possible to convert your passion into a meaningful day to day job. Always present your best work and avoid tainting your material and creditability for short sighted or short term benefit. Above all keep fishing, keep enjoying your time on the water and keep plugging away till you cement yourself in the industry.
Giant trevally caught on a Coral Sea trip with Nomad Adventures.
10 What’s your favourite fishing destination?
I have a soft spot for the much maligned Parramatta River and Sydney Harbour, exotic locations are incredible and I jump at any chance to travel, however, I cut my teeth fishing the Harbour and never tire of fishing Sydney. The Coral Sea is an amazing place and when I’ve fished it with Damon Olsen I always keep yearning for more. I’ve fished Coromandel in New Zealand with Carl Muir a number of times and love heading across the ditch to chase big angry kingfish and oversize snapper.
In the last few years Sami has made regular trips to the NZ North Island to target quality kings like this.
