The Captain
Rods bending Reels screaming
It was November 2020 when another year at the papermill was in the books and I started to realize how unhappy I was.
I always shared the dream of my father to be a charter boat captain. And after that revaluation of my career, I began to study for my captain's exam in the spring of 2021. A year later after passing my exam, with the support of my wife, I quit my job to spend the summer taking dozens of trips with friends and family, to not only establish a plan, but to give me the confidence to write this section to you now.
My name is Zachary Ranney and I was born and raised in Enfield, CT where I currently reside. I was fortunate enough to have grown up in the outdoors with my father and many other close mentors that have all added a piece to the puzzle of knowledge. My early years on the water were primarily focused on trout and salmon in CT inland lakes, as well as the mighty Lake Ontario in upstate NY. Already being proficient in deep water trolling (downriggers), when I started solo captaining in 2013, I devoted my time to a whole different fishery in Long Island sound.
I found my quick love for stripers and to be honest with you, I struggled for years to catch consistent quality fish. It wasn’t until I decided to incorporate my freshwater trolling techniques, that I started to dial in my routine. The fish count started to triple and the smiles onboard the boat started to multiply.
After that fourth season of putting up the same consistent numbers I really felt the need to share my experiences. It’s not about the biggest boat (or boat at all), money, or even experience that make those precious memories happen. Whether it's your first time fishing, or you are a weekend warrior as I still am, let me show you how easy it is. I run a small operation with a huge dream, and that allows me to keep my costs down to offer certain lower priced options for you.
A loving father of 2 girls, a devoted husband, a son, brother, and an empathetic friend who always shares a laugh. That’s me. Just your average American chasing their dreams.
Although one day I hope to do this full time, right now my schedule is limited due to other work and responsibilities at home. Let me know what your dreams are, and I’ll do everything I can to make it happen.
-Captain Zack
email us: wilrilfishing@gmail.com
The Boat
Our vessel is a 2007 Triumph 195cc. Named the “Kristin Lea”, this boat was built by my father to serve the purpose of a variety of different fishery’s. From big waves up in Lake Ontario to salty air in Long Island sound, she’s small but her heart is mighty and can fit 4 people comfortably for a stable ride at a fraction of the price as these bigger vessels. Our costs are down so we can pass that savings to you. I’ve been solo captaining this boat since 2013 and can say that we know each other like the back of our hands. Labeled as an “indestructible” hull, the safety of the ropelene composite was always a selling point that makes it safe especially for the family. With an everlasting Yamaha 115 hp she gets down to the perfect trolling speed and cruises fully loaded at about 30mph. Outfitted with the latest fish finding capabilities (side scan, down imaging) and gps we are able to locate the fish and stay on them. Our autopilot gives me that extra edge to help you land that trophy. We have dry storage for your belonging and fish boxes available for your catch. A key to our success is bait that does not require water, so we have a flushable live well for the ladies to relieve themselves. To top our trolling game, we are equipped with two cannon mag 10 electric downriggers, a Fishhawk XD probe, and planner boards for those tough bites. Safety is our number one priority. Onboard we carry all USCG certified life vests, throwable vests, fire extinguisher, and a first aid kit. Captain is
CPR/ first aid trained.