Colorado Rockies exclusive: Charlie Blackmon talks fishing, tells tales

For Colorado Rockies All-Star outfielder Charlie Blackmon, there are two passions: baseball and fishing. While Blackmon may get paid to set the pace for the Rockies offense, he gets away to the serenity of a river or lake every chance he gets.

Yes, the same Chuck Nazty who is among the league leaders in home runs and had a leadoff season for the ages last year is also the same person who loves to get into the river by himself and see how many Colorado trout he can reel in. The same person who is competitive about winning a battle against the best Major League pitchers is also as competitive about casting and catching fish.

Check out his Instagram account and you’ll quickly see Blackmon with all sorts of fishing conquests, including striped bass, trout and some deep sea beauties. Check out the video below and you’ll see Blackmon in action, talking lures in typical Chuck Nazty ways.

Yes, fishing is a passion for Charlie Blackmon. During Colorado’s recent trip to Pittsburgh to face the Pirates, I had the chance to sit down with Blackmon and talk fishing in an exclusive interview. No baseball questions were asked. What was asked? Well, one of the biggest questions was the story behind this Instagram post and how the fishing trip really came together.

There was also talk about the spring training casting contest between Blackmon and Rockies closer Wade Davis. Blackmon may not have won the contest, but he absolutely stole the show with his choice of fashion for the event.

Next: An exclusive talk with Colorado's hitting coach on overcoming early-season struggles

Click here to listen to Blackmon, in his own words, talk fishing, tell about his fishing trip with Nolan Arenado, what he traded Trevor Story for a fly rod and reel, and what advice he would give to other fishermen about loving the sport even more.

Also, check out some of the amazing photos on the Trouts Fly Fishing blog of Blackmon enjoying his time outdoors. The photo below, and others from Ivan Orsic, make you realize just how great of a state Colorado is for fishermen (and fisherwomen, of course).

Again, click here to listen to my exclusive chat with Blackmon about the great sport of fishing.