All funds raised will go directly to Michelle Kolb, Merlin’s spouse, to assist with expenses during this time of need. This fundraiser has been approved by Michelle and is being organized by Mike Aughney, Merlin's business partner, owner of Reel Magic Sportfishing and his friends, Mike Mansuy + Taj Sharma.

Merlin Kolb was a larger than life charter boat Captain of the Reel Magic out of Bodega Bay, CA. He passed away from a car accident on September 11, 2022. An incredible family member, friend, fellow fisherman, and community member. Merlin is known up and down the coast as a very giving, open-hearted, and well loved human.

Merlin thoroughly enjoyed sharing the grandeur of the sea with all it had to offer and took personal pride in offering the best outing possible for everyone. He loved to share his knowledge and experience of what he would call “Beautiful Bodega Bay'' with all, especially children. He has been known to let the young ones sit in the Captain’s chair and run the vessel from time to time. As a charter boat captain, Merlin also went out of his way to help fellow boaters have a successful day on the water by sharing information on the radio all day long. Not only did he want the best for his guests, but he also wanted everyone on the water that day to have a successful trip. Always sharing. Always caring.

Merlin’s highly anticipated fishing reports on area fishing boards were among the best one could find anywhere. He left his readers feeling like they were in on the action when he posted… and he posted every day. To quote his signature sign off… “making the best of Bodega Bay, one bite at a time” and yes Merlin, “those were the good ol’ days!!”

Merlin’s memorial service is on September 22 at the Bodega Bay Church, 1320 Bay View Street, Bodega Bay at 1pm.