The tight-knit fishing community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of two remarkable men this week—Capt. Jason Stock and Eric “Sticky” Whitted—whose sudden passing has left friends, family, and fellow anglers in shock.

Known not only for their extraordinary skills on the water but also for the friendships they cultivated, both men were legends in their own right. Sticky, remembered as one of the greatest souls many had ever known, lived life with passion and camaraderie. From running charters in St. Pete to unforgettable fishing tournaments and countless adventures on the water, his presence left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Capt. Jason Stock, admired as both a mentor and friend, carried the same unwavering spirit—dedicated to his craft and deeply loved within the fishing community. Together, their loss represents more than the passing of two men; it is the loss of two guiding lights whose laughter, generosity, and love for the sea brought people together.

The Old Salts Fishing Foundation, along with countless others, has extended its deepest condolences to their families and friends, asking all who knew them to honor their memory by carrying forward the joy and passion they embodied.

Though gone far too soon, their legacies will live on in the waters they navigated, the lives they touched, and the community they helped build.