Catch Magazine’s first correspondence with Florida-based underwater photographer and deep-sea diver Kevin Dodge was anything but usual.  The stunning pictures he shared with us last fall highlight his extensive collection of commonly photographed ocean-dwelling fish, from bonefish and tarpon to sailfish and shark. Mahi and yellowfin, even swordfish and whale shark, are part of his collection.  However, the most unusual and intriguing of the pictures were those featuring his ripped swim shorts. 

Ripped swim shorts? This, he said, was the remains of the near-fatal swordfish attack he experienced while photographing off the Florida Keys in 2015. As one of his most dangerous photo projects, it ended in a near-fatal encounter with a swordfish at dusk with some friends. He was in the water as it charged straight at him. He instinctively grabbed its bill and forced it between his legs.  He barely avoided serious injury, though it tore through his shorts and hit him hard.  

While not the usual Catch Magazine feature, Kevin’s photography illustrates the beautiful and wild fish most all saltwater anglers dream of.  Yet Kevin’s photography experience, and his near-fatal swordfish attack, highlight dangers that could be more prevalent in the future. The variety of available camera equipment, plus the increasing popularity of extreme adventure sports, could be the crux of this phenomenon. 

More people want to experience, to see and to share adventure.  All outdoor sports, including fly fishing, will be documented more often with pictures.  It will be more important than ever to understand and respect nature as a priority over getting the next best Instagram post.  While Kevin’s survival is a testament to the endurance of  human adventure, it’s also a warning for all of us who aim for the next best catch, shot or post.