Sgt. Jacob D. Melrose, an armorer with Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron here, has a passion for fishing that goes far beyond that of an average angler.

“Some people fish for recreation or for sport, but for Sgt. Melrose, fishing is a way of life,” said Cpl. Brandon M. Little, an armorer with H&HS.

The young sergeant began fishing at three years old and never stopped. His love for fishing has grown into more than just a hobby, as Melrose now fishes in prize tournaments where his fishing skills earned him a sponsorship with a local tackle shop.

“I began fishing in tournaments when I was 16,” said Melrose. “It was the next step up from recreational angling,”

Melrose is part of the Camp Pendleton Bass Angler’s Club, which consists of active-duty Marines, retirees and dependents of Marines.

“We fish with lance corporals to retired majors who fought in the Korean and Vietnam wars,” said Melrose. “We have guys who are 20 years old and guys who are 80 years old. They are a fun group to fish with.”

Melrose explained that he fishes twice a week on average throughout the year, and four times a week during the spring and summer months. He fishes for fresh and saltwater fish, with tuna as his favorite gamefish.

 “I get a rush from fishing in general but even more so from catching tuna,” said Melrose.

As an avid sports fisherman, Melrose studies weather patterns, fish behaviors and the geography of local water. He also has applied science to fishing and does so to catch more fish. In different conditions Melrose knows what lures to use and what colors will work to get the fish to bite.

His expertise lead him to earn a sponsorship through a local bait and tackle shop, which earns him free fishing gear, clothing and discounts on other tackle.

For those Marines who enjoy spending some of their spare time fishing, Sgt. Melrose stands out as an angler who lives to fish and looks to perfect the science behind the sport.

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