Episode 68: Capt. Eddie Wightman - The "Loner"

Eddie Wightman will go down in history as one of the legendary
guides of Islamorada, Florida! Pushing his boat for his clients
over 300 days a year, he was known as one of the hardest working
guides and was an independent man who prided himself on finding his
own fish in different locations. When the fleet of boats went one
way, Wightman went the other. So much so that Flip Pallot named him
“The Loner!” Wightman took great pride in that name because that’s
who Wightman is. His reputation preceded him and many wanted his
talents to guide them. Eddie fished with a lot of great anglers,
those who chased world records and big tournaments. He saw the
halcyon years of the best tarpon hole in the world, Homosassa, and
won the biggest tarpon tournament, the Gold Cup, twice. His voice
was heard loud and clear when the push for no kill tournaments was
waged. Conservation prevailed, and in 1992 the Gold Cup evolved
into a catch and release event. There were others too, pushing for
the change, but Eddie was there at the forefront. I fished with and
against Eddie, and I must say there were few at the dock that
carried a presence like him. With great respect, we hope you enjoy
Mr. Wightman!