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- Learn to Fish LBI brings “Reel” Joy!
Learn to Fish LBI brings “Reel” Joy!

Trevor Zabroski of ‘Learn to Fish LBI’ along with two eager students.
Eighteen-year-old Trevor Zabroski is thrilled to be making a name for himself on Long Beach Island by turning his lifelong fishing hobby into a small business on LBI. Learn to Fish LBI started in 2021 as a way for Zabroski to share both his fishing expertise and passion for the sport with those interested in learning how to fish. What began as Zabroski showing visiting family and friends some basics of fishing quickly turned into more. “A lot of kids from home would come visit with their families and want to go fishing, so I’d take them out all day; it was almost like camp time.” At his parents’ suggestion, Zabroski decided to begin offering lessons to all ages. Zabroski has worked with everyone from kids to adults, beginners to those more advanced and just looking to brush up on their fishing skills, as well as people looking for a fun daytime activity while on the island.
Zabroski grew up summering at the shore and credits his grandfather with teaching him everything he knows about fishing while also fostering a true love for time spent by the water. “My grandpa taught me everything from when I was young, and now enjoys seeing me teach like he taught me.” Now ninety-five, “Big Al,” as Trevor’s grandfather is known among family, takes pride in the success of his grandson who he helped nurture and continues to be actively involved in his grandson’s life. “He’s always asking me questions about what I’m doing and I’m always coming back telling him what I did and what was caught that day,” Zabroski proudly remarks. Zabroski and his grandfather have also teamed up on occasion to teach lessons, with Trevor happy to have his grandfather along to help him out. Trevor is especially proud to use many of the rods and gear his grandfather made over the years and always ensures his clients are aware of the unique experience he is providing. During lessons, Zabroski provides all the necessary supplies, including bait and tackle, reels and rods, and has several areas on the island he meets clients at, though mainly prefers a particular Barnegat Light location.

Trevor teaching a young student the ins and outs of fishing on the island.
Despite the business still being fairly new, Zabroski has already met several goals he set for himself early on, including catching a fish during every lesson. “My catching rate is very high, but it’s not all about catching, as I try to teach the kids as well. It’s really about learning.” During beach lessons, catching fluke and flounder is common. “We start out with beach lessons,” Zabroski explains, “because it’s pretty straightforward learning. I have repeat customers who come back to do tautog, or tog, fishing which is a little bit tougher because we’re fishing on the rocks.” Zabroski is looking into professional photography and drone footage, but always wears a GoPro camera to capture unique fishing moments which he shares on social media, including a couple of customers who pulled up two fish on one rig, a rare but exciting experience.
Zabroski mainly advertises on several social media networks and demand for his services continues to grow. Last summer, he brought on a friend to help manage scheduling and is starting to look to a few more friends to help as business gets busier. Looking ahead, Zabroski has high hopes for expanding the business, perhaps even land charters in other states one day, and looks forward to obtaining both his charter license and boat captain’s license. But in the meantime, in addition to his popular fishing lessons, Zabroski enjoys his summers on LBI and can often be found at some favorite spots on the island. Wings at the Arlington are a favorite as well as stops into Lighthouse Deli for lunch. When it comes to picking up supplies for lessons, Zabroski is no stranger to the fishing stores on the island, including Fisherman’s Headquarters in Ship Bottom, Surf City Bait & Tackle, and Van’s Bait &Tackle in Barnegat Light.

Trevor and staff showing off the big catch.
In times when so many people look to their phones for entertainment, Zabroski strives to provide a break from electronics and get people out in nature. “Put your digital devices down and drop a line,” he encourages. Zabroski fondly refers to the beach as his office and encourages everyone to experience fishing. “I really just hope people have a good time and are able to take their minds off everything else; fishing is always fun and helps clear [the] mind.”
About Learn to Fish LBI: You can follow ‘Learn to Fish LBI’ on Instagram to learn more about Trevor’s business and book a fishing lesson with him.
About the writer: Brielle Bleeker has been vacationing on LBI since childhood and is happy to continue the tradition with her husband and children. As a freelance writer, Brielle has published articles related to books, travel, food, and wellness. She counts down all year long to summertime on the sandbar.