Flats, Friends, and Fighting Forward with Owen Gayler

A Fighter On and Off the Skiff

Owen Gayler is a seasoned fly-fishing guide out of Port O’Connor, Texas, and one of the most genuine souls you’ll ever share a skiff with. He’s built a name for himself through years of hard work, salty wisdom, and the kind of fishy intuition you can’t teach. But beyond the casts and tailing reds, Owen is just good people—a guy who lifts everyone around him with a laugh, a story, or a perfectly timed pushpole move.

Some of our favorite moments on the water have been spent with Owen. Whether it’s quiet mornings sight-casting redfish or late nights at Borracho Pescador, covered in salt and stories, he’s the kind of person who turns any day into one you’ll talk about for years. He’s part of the heartbeat of our fishing community.

Fighting a Tough Current

Recently, Owen was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer and has begun treatment at MD Anderson in Houston. The news hit hard. But if you know Owen, you know he’s built for a fight. His strength, humor, and spirit haven’t gone anywhere—and neither has his love for his wife Erin and their three daughters, who are walking this road with him every step of the way.

As he battles through this, we’re showing up for Owen the way he’s shown up for all of us over the years.

How You Can Help

A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to help cover Owen’s medical and living expenses while he undergoes treatment. Every bit helps, whether it’s $10 or $1,000.

👉 Donate Here
(or search: “Support Captain Owen Gayler GoFundMe” if the link ever breaks)

From Fatties, With Love

Starting now, Fatties Guide Co is donating 100% of all day wages to Owen’s family until further notice. If you fish with us this season, you’re helping a brother and a guide family that needs it most.

We’re all better for knowing Owen—and we’re proud to stand by him in this fight.

Let’s keep the line tight, the hearts full, and the support rolling.

—Team Fatties