OnBoard Magazine - Issue XIII - 2021 Season

F or most people, when they get nipped by the fishing bug, there’s no turning back. It becomes a craving that can only be satisfied by heading offshore or venturing through the back bays. For outdoorsman Bryan Graul, hunting and fishing are more than just hobbies, and he doesn’t stick to just one type of sport fishing either. To appease his appetite to fish outside of tournaments, he runs his center console on the Cheasapeake Bay in the summer, and along Florida’s East Coast in the wintertime. “I have done a lot of offshore fishing in marlin tournaments up and down the East Coast,” he explains. His best friend has owned a handful of Viking convertibles and Graul is usually on the invite list when it comes to tournament season. Over the years wintering in Florida, he became connected with Viking Yacht’s owners, the Healey family. When President Pat Healey announced the launch of Valhalla Boatworks center consoles, Graul was sure to be near the front of the line for one. Graul worked directly with Bluewater Yacht Sales to order and option-out his new Valhalla V-37. “I knew Bluewater would take good care of me, but I was totally impressed with sales and service, and getting to know Earle and Chris Hall personally,” he explains. When delivery day arrived, Bluewater Sales Professional Scott MacDonald and Maryland Service Liaison Stuart Sohovich, “spent their time going over the boat to make sure I understood all the systems.” Graul continues, “Any issues or questions I have, both guys are always available, and their follow-through is top notch.” After taking delivery of his new V-37 in June of 2020, Graul named it Checked Out. He explains the double meaning, “I work in the grocery business.” So, between that, and “checking out” to go fishing as often as possible, he seems to have found the perfect name for his new boat. “I chose the V-37 knowing that it would be easy to handle on those days when I head out solo, and I haven’t been wrong yet.” he says. After taking delivery and putting the new Valhalla through her paces, he realized this boat is unlike anything he’s ever helmed before. “I’ve owned several center consoles over the years and this Valhalla is quite impressive and has surpassed everything I thought it would be.” He adds, “This boat was well worth the wait.” MAKING THE MOST OF IT Summer plans on Loose Change II include spending time with his grandchildren on weekend cruises along coastal North Carolina, including Beaufort, Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach. “We try to have a small adventure every week and a little bit bigger adventure every other week!” he explains. His partner and co-skipper, Susan has learned fast and can handle the lines and fenders well. “She knows what to do and she makes it possible that we can run the boat by ourselves.” Operating her own business as well makes it possible for both to have the flexibility required to enjoy the weekly and bi-monthly adventures. As they become more familiar with the boat, adventures into the Chesapeake and Delaware Bay will be on the itinerary. “Eventually I would like to do the Great Loop,” Recoulley states. “But there is enough to do on the East Coast to keep me happy as a clam for now.” Recoulley explains that his passion for boating and adventure began with a dream over 35-years ago. Despite all the curve balls and obstacles since then, he has relentlessly pursued that dream and made it a reality—out of sheer determination and a positive spirit. “I do not let my life run me, I run my life,” Recoulley explains. "I also acknowledge God for the strength and ability to handle whatever comes along. I know He doesn’t give me more than I can handle, but sometimes I am amazed at His confidence in my ability!" Fun Fishing BLUEWATER CUSTOMER FIRST IN LINE FOR A NEW VALHALLA V-37 43 2021 SEASON