Are you the type who is always seeking new adventures? Have you been looking for a way to stay in shape while taking in the great outdoors? Well, you may not knowit, but kayaking is an excellent activity for people of all ages and abilities. First off, it’s a low impact sport, so it can actually improve your strength and flexibility without much wear and tear on your body. It can also be beneficial to your cardiovascular fitness as well as your muscle strength,particularly in your back, arms, and shoulders.And while you’re building those muscles,why not familiarize yourself with some of Middle Georgia’s most scenic waterways? Ahmad Williams, better known as“ Modd the Angler,”has been paddling the waters around Houston County for decades,soa few years ago he decided to turn his passion into a business venture.His company, MTA Kayak Tour Guide,takes folkson an exploration of the local waterways via a guided kayak tour. His tours promise to provide long-lasting memories for his clients while adding an element of adventure to their trip. So grab a paddle and let’s be on our way!“

On our kayak tours, folks can experience unique places in the great outdoors while they explore large, beautifu lbodies of water at their own pace,” explains Modd, whois also a renowned fisherman.“Plus, kayaks can fit down shallow streams and rivers that otherboats can't(access), so there are endless numbers of waterways around here to explore in a kayak.”

As a certified level two kayak instructor and member of the American Canoe Association, Modd says that he created this rather unique business venture because he wanted to share his passion for being on the water.“There's no better way to get to know this area than being on the water.”

Born and raised in Warner Robins,the 28-year-old angler says his family loved to fish and enjoyed being outdoors; thus,he caught the “fishing bug” early. “I’ve been fishing for pretty much my entire life. When I was a kid, we’d find any little creek, like Mossy Creek, or a pond,and go fishing every weekend, usually at my grandparents’ house in Fort Valley.”

After graduating from high school, Modd moved to Florida to attend technical school. However, when his grandparents began tohave some medical issues, he decided to move back to the area.“I purchased my first kayak while I was still in Jacksonville so that I could incorporate my love for fishing with kayaking,” he explains.“My first kayak was a cheap one,only $100, but it had rod holders,so that was all I needed.”

After returning to Warner Robins in2018, Modd says he first tried convincing his friends to purchase their own kayaks so they could share his new passion. It was then that he had an epiphany.“I came up with the idea of purchasing several kayaks myself so that my friends could accompany me. I didn’t have any intention of starting a business; I just wanted to go kayaking with them and catch some fish. We soon realized that we could give guided kayak tours on Houston Lake.”

In 2022,Moddthen set out to earn his certification to instruct and began to acquire the needed materials–life jackets, paddles,kayaks in various sizes,as well as a business license.“My certification allows me to teach beginners the basic maneuvers in kayaking as well ashow to kayak on flat water or on a level oneriver. I’m also certified in first aid and CPR.”

Modd’s business began in earnest in 2023, and grew steadily over the next few months, notwithstanding the winter season. “It basically grew through word of mouth, social media and self-promotion,”he says.

A typical excursion starts with abriefcourse on the basics of kayaking as well as some safety procedures. Modd encourages his clients, who should be 18 or older,to bring water, sunscreen and a change of clothing. Then after a bit of stretching exercises, the kayakers launch into Houston Lake, paddling past the golf course while Modd explains the history of the lake. A friendly turtle along the way or a fish jumping adds to the ambience. After traveling about a mile on the lake, the group eases into the Spanish moss canopy to snap some pictures and take a breather. Then it’s back to the shoreline to wrap up the tour!

Thus far Modd has overseen around 60 tours and has no plans to slow down. “I look forward to meeting new folks on each new excursion,” he says with a broad smile. “There’s no better way to get to know the Middle Georgia area than to explore what it has to offer on the water. It’s really fulfilling for me to be able to help folks make memories that will last a lifetime.”

For more information about the tours, call (904)418-3598 or write to Modd the Angler at dreadedfishery@gmail.com.