In 1984, after the success of Jane Fonda's first workout video, Gary Cooper decided to plant a stake in the home video market, with several educational programs about his hobby: fishing BC's wild West Coast. Released under the banner "Outdoor Video", these programs propelled Gary into one of the sport fishing industry's most recognized spokesmen, as well as solidifying his brand as an engaging on-air personality.
In 1988, the first season of Gary Cooper's Fishing Diary entertained and educated audiences with its uniquely fun style. The focus was on adventure, recreation, and most importantly bringing the viewer along for the ride. In 1992 the name of the series changed to Nice Fish, but the momentum was unstoppable.
Today, more than 600 episodes have been produced, and NFMG Productions (Nice Fish Marketing Group) has grown into a major multimedia production company serving over 2000 clients in a variety of industries.
In addition to Gary Cooper's Fishing Diary and Nice Fish, Gary also produces the long-running Sport Fishing On the Fly, and created and produced the first season of WFN's The Lodge.
Marital Status: Yes
Children: 3
Pets: Chocolate Lab –“Leroy Brown”
Hobbies: My Work
Favourite Movie: “True Romance”
Favourite TV Show: “Seinfeld”
Favourite music: the Blues
Favourite Motto/Quote: ‘Luck Is An Attitude’
Did You Ever This You Were Going To Be A TV Fishing Host When You Were A Kid?: No. Got pretty excited when I met Ted Peck (“Tides and Trails”)
Years Fishing: 50 years
Favourite Angler: My Grandson
Favourite Technique: Cut Plug
Fishing Strength: Saltwater Pacific Northwest
Fishing Weakness: Fly-Fishing the Tropics for Permit. 80 hours, still no Permit.
Boat: 30-foot Pursuit
Highest Point Of Career As An Angler or TV Fishing Host: 50-Pound Dorado on light tackle off the Baja with my new camera man too seasick to be able to film it.
