About

A family affair.

An appreciation for the natural world runs deep in my family. My maternal grandfather grew up on the water, and it was surfcasting that was his therapy after returning home from WWII. My uncle Derrick is a dyed-in-the-wool woodsman—from fur trapping to ice climbing to upland bird hunting, he has done it all at one time or another. My father is a lifelong naturalist; canoe trips and bird walks walks were a regular occurrence during my childhood. All that to say, a passion for the great outdoors was instilled in me at an early age, and it was fishing, more than any other hobby, that took hold and hasn't let go. 

Southern New England has been an ideal home base to kindle this flame. I grew up in a coastal town on Long Island Sound with saltwater fishing, clamming, and crabbing in my backyard and ample freshwater options a stone's throw away. That diversity in year-round opportunities has always appealed to me—no matter what the season, there is always a style of fishing to look forward to or species to target.  

Start them young.

Documenting trips to look back on and share with friends and family has always been important to me. That's why I created The Connecticut Yankee in 2009—to serve as a depository for memorable outdoor experiences from over the years. While posts may ebb and flow in frequency, this blog is always here to browse like a good book and add to when time permits. No matter how many years pass, these posts act like a time machine that bring me right back to that river I was wading in or frozen lake I was standing on. Talented friends of mine also share here on occasion—having their different writing styles and experiences in the mix helps keep things interesting.  

The tradition continues.

As will happen, family obligations have increased in recent years and priorities have shifted. Trips solely for fishing (and writing about said trips) have taken a backseat for a while. I still get out when I can and appreciate those days on the water more than ever. My main focus is being the best dad I can be and enjoying the ride along the way. One of the many perks of fatherhood has been introducing my two girls to the things that my father, grandfather, and uncle taught me. I am keeping the torch lit and passing it on to a new generation.

Thank you for dropping by, and tight lines. 

Kierran 

My grandfather had salt in his veins.

I have my uncle to thank for passions like fishing and artifact hunting. 

My father taught me to appreciate nature and is the reason I carry binoculars wherever I go.

My father also gave me an appreciation for history. Here we are honoring our ancestor on a Civil War battlefield in Virginia.