"Definitely the best captain I've had the pleasure to fish with."
Thomas Potts
Hi, I'm Erik.
Father, husband, gym junkie, tackle freak, major fishing geek and owner of Chasing Blue Fishing Experiences.
Growing up in the suburbs of Rotterdam surrounded by water, I started fishing at the young age of four and it soon became an essential part of my life. Today, I'm thrilled to pour my life-long passion into my business.
When I'm not out with guests hunting blue fin tuna, I recharge my batteries and draw inspiration from other fisheries. Currently, I love dry fly fishing for brown trouts amidst Catalonia's beautiful nature.
Apart from emerging myself in other types of fishing, I draw energy from another passion of mine: fitness. Daily early-morning workouts help me to stay energized during long days on the water and give me the strength to make it through long and intense work seasons.
While I fish with anglers from all over the world, I also live a truly international life on the personal side. My wife being German, our 6-year-old son grows up speaking 4 languages. Together with our dog and a cat, we live in a beautiful home in Miami Platja — just 5 minutes away from l'Hospitalet de l'Infant where my boat is anchored.
Click on the images below to read more about my background.
Erik's story
Click on the pictures to read more about my background.
Growing up in Rotterdam surrounded by water, I started fishing at the young age of four. Fishing became an anchor during my childhood and youth exploring different fisheries and losing myself between the pages of my favourite tackle catalogues.
As a young adult I started working different jobs, but never stayed for long. An accident in 2009 was my wake-up call: I left the Netherlands behind to pursue my passion. I started studying at the Forshaga Sportfishing Academy in Sweden.
After my graduation I guided at different fishing charters in Spain and Sri Lanka. I was grateful for the experience I gained. But working according to their rules, I was not able to offer our guests the quality I was striving for. The dream of starting my own charter was born!
In 2017 I took the leap and founded Chasing Blue Fishing Experiences with a clear goal: to provide highest quality for experienced anglers who travel the world and expect that little bit extra from their captain. Today, I'm proud to say our guest's feedback confirms I achieved my goal.
12+ years local guiding experience
Professional captain's license (PPER)
Degree from Forshaga Sportfish Academy
Certified IGFA Captain
Uncertified tackle nerd ;)
"Sometimes you meet anglers who are just Fishy, and Erik is one of the Fishyest people you could meet."
Cian O'Halloran
"I've fished with a number of captains, some good and some very bad and you sir, are definitely the best captain I've had the pleasure to fish with."
Thomas Potts
Ready to create your own memories?
Certified IGFA Captain
As a proud member of The International Game Fish Association (IGFA), Erik promotes ethical angling and responsible fisheries management worldwide.
The IGFA Captains & Guides Program was developed to help connect ethical anglers and IGFA Members with likeminded professional fishing captains and guides around the world, and to help spread the IGFA’s mission and vision. (source: IGFA)
Our mission at Chasing Blue
Chasing Blue isn't your average fishing charter. We're not just about catching fish; we're about creating unforgettable moments on the water.
Discover the philosophy that shaped Chasing Blue from the first day and that fuels our success.
Chasing Blue Fishing Experiences was founded with a strong mission: to do things differently than other charters in the area!
We put our guests first. We don't save on the wrong end. And we go above and beyond so that you have a great time with us.
If you're looking for a quiet (read 'lazy') day on the boat sitting around waiting for the fish to show up, we're probably not the right charter for you.
But we are for you if you want action and a captain who doesn't sit still. We combine all our experience and knowledge as well as top-notch technology to put you on fish.
And if all efforts don't lead to results (because we all know some days are just difficult), we still make the best of it. And what's the next-best thing to catching fish? Geeking out with other fishing fanatics on tackle, techniques and the best fishing destinations!
After all, what unites us is our passion for all things fishing!
Our values
Our values are the logical consequence of our mission. They guide us in everything we do.
Passion
What sets us apart from other charters is our passion and drive to always go the extra mile for our guests.
Camaraderie
We treat each other with respect. Our guest's success is our success and we celebrate every catch with you!
Quality
We don't save on the wrong end: We provide high-quality fishing gear and use high-end technology.
Honesty
We don't lure you in with false promises or fake marketing. What you see is what you get (and most likely more).
Sustainability
We practice catch & release and pay maximum attention not to pollute the ocean with our gear or garbage.
Erik is an outstanding hard-working guide who gets as excited as his clients (if not more) about putting them on fish.
Cian O'Halloran
Want to book your trip with Erik?
If you want to secure your dream dates, don't wait to long — our top weeks for tuna fishing are limited and high in demand.
Before getting in touch, take a peek at our FAQ's to clear your first doubts.
We can't wait to discuss the details of your fishing trip with you!