Daniel Balserak and Luke Konson, two incoming Clemson University freshmen who swapped online classes for a gap year grand fishing trip, only have four remaining states to visit before successfully capping off their nationwide adventure.
The “Fish All Fifty” mission was meant to be a fun yet challenging trip where the two friends catch the official fish of each state, whatever the weather.
“We have now completed four legs of our epic journey, and after many setbacks, a car accident, ice storms, flat tires, being stuck in the mud, having to make and change plans over and over due to changing circumstances, we are now at 46 states,” they told The College Post in an email.
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Remaining States
Konson and Balserak explained that the four states left in their itinerary are Arkansas, Alaska, Hawaii, and Virginia.
With the finish line almost within reach, both men are hoping to spread the word about their last leg to gain the attention of local guides and expert fishermen to help them reel in their final four state fishes.
Both have also expressed their concerns about their upcoming trip to Hawaii due to financial constraints, stating that they started a fundraiser to help cover airplane tickets and other transportation costs.
“We have lived so frugally this past year, sleeping in our parent’s vans… and losing tens of pounds as we eat very little on the road,” they wrote. “We are now looking for raised awareness of our almost-complete journey … to raise enough money for our flights, internal transport and any other costs we may have in Hawaii.”
Virginia will hopefully be the last stop in the “Fish All Fifty” quest so that both Konson and Balserak can share the accomplishment with their families, who are eagerly waiting for them to come home.
“We have countless stories of how strangers and friends, and friends of friends, have reached out to us and helped us along the way. It’s been so heartwarming to see and experience people’s generosity and kindness. We’re hoping for one last push to get us over the finish line before we move into Clemson on 12 August,” they said.