Page 169 - South Mississippi Living - September, 2025

industry. “My favorite part of that job was being part of someone’s special moment. Now, I get to do the same thing, just in a different setting. People are out here having their best day ever, and I get to be part of that. That’s the best part of the job.”
True to its name, Happy Fishing Charters is all about creating joyful, hands-on experiences, especially for families and first-timers. Holland says she thrives on teaching people how to fish.
“I’m very patient, and I love giving people the chance to do it themselves,” she said. “It’s not about me doing the
work for them. It’s about helping them make memories.”
One of her most meaningful trips involved an elderly man named Mr. Jim, who had redfish on his bucket list. “On his first cast, he caught the perfect redfish to take home for dinner. Later that day, he caught several bull reds. He didn’t have much time left, so helping him accomplish that really stuck with me.”
Holland fishes year-round, adjusting to the seasonal patterns of redfish, trout, flounder, sheepshead, sharks, and more.
Support from the local community has been overwhelming. “People have shown
up for me in a big way, repeat clients, word-of-mouth, positive reviews. The Gulf Coast has embraced me.”
Her advice for other women who want to break into the outdoors or charter world? “You’re going to hear a lot of no’s. Keep going until you find your yes. And whatever you do, don’t give up—it’s worth it.”
You can find Angie and Happy Fishing Charters docked at the Small Craft Harbor in Biloxi or follow her adventures on Facebook. Just look for the big smile and the even bigger redfish.
Angie Holland, founder of Happy Fishing Charters.
SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living | www.smliving.net September 2025 | 169