In this episode of On The Reel, Bob Bartlett sits down with Los Angeles native, fly angler, and professional guide Noël Garcia for a deeply personal conversation about fishing, resilience, mentorship, and belonging. Noël shares how she grew up fishing in California’s Western Sierra, stepped away from fishing as life took her in other directions, and ultimately found her way back to the water while undergoing cancer treatment. What began as a therapeutic return to fishing became a life changing passion for fly fishing, leading her to the beaches of Santa Monica Bay, where she now pursues corbina and leopard sharks and helps others discover the joy of reading the surf and connecting with fish. Noël also talks about the mentors who shaped her development, the lessons fish have taught her about patience and perseverance, and her evolution into a professional fly fishing guide. At the heart of the conversation is her belief that there is a place on the water for everyone, particularly people who have not always seen themselves represented in fly fishing. Her story is ultimately about finding something that gives you a reason to reconnect, to keep learning, and to invite others along for the journey. Episode Notes: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strip.set?stkn=d3kzNnp5d3g3cGtt https://www.instagram.com/westsideflyshop?stkn=MWF5NGtiajk2YjYwMQ== Business: https://www.westsidefly.com Podcast Overview - On The Real is all about making the invisible visible. This podcast, hosted by Ubuntu Fly Anglers, is a space where we get real with Black and Brown anglers, guides, outfitters, and outdoor enthusiasts about what matters most to them. Through candid conversations, On The Real explores the joys, challenges, and truths of living the outdoor life, from fly fishing and guiding to building businesses, mentoring others, and finding belonging in nature. It's about sharing wisdom, celebrating identity, and holding space for the real stories that often go unheard. Ubuntu Fly Anglers is proudly a program of iFishiBelong, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive fishing community where everyone feels welcome, empowered, and connected. This organization is for everyone who supports all people, all techniques, and all species. Through programs such as All Kids Fish, DIY Fishing Events, Ubuntu Fly Anglers, and United Women on the Fly, we provide education, leadership opportunities, and a platform for underrepresented groups in the fishing community. True integration celebrates individual differences, elevating them within the collective whole rather than forcing uniformity. We promote equitable representation, offer financial assistance, and create spaces for all anglers to thrive. At iFishiBelong, we celebrate individuality within the collective love of fishing, ensuring that everyone has access to the sport and the opportunity to lead.
