The shores of Martha’s Vineyard are quieter now as we mourn the passing of Janet Messineo, a revered fisherman who fearlessly stalked the nighttime beaches of the Island for over 50 years. Janet passed away on December 17 at her home in Vineyard Haven at the age of 76, after a courageous battle with ALS.
Janet was not only a legend in the fishing community but also a beloved writer, taxidermist, and mentor who broke barriers for women in a male-dominated sport. Her husband, Tristan Israel, summed up her impact simply: “She was a rock star. It is overwhelming how many people loved and cared for her.”
A Life Cast into the Light
Janet’s journey was as remarkable as the fish she pursued. Born in Lawrence, Massachusetts, and raised in Salem, New Hampshire, she left home at 18 in search of adventure. Her path eventually led her to Martha’s Vineyard, where she discovered fishing—a passion that would shape her life and inspire countless others.
“I exhale,” she wrote in her memoir Casting Into the Light: Tales of a Fishing Life, describing the moment each spring when she returned to the surf with her fishing rod. Her vivid prose earned her admirers far beyond the Island, with readers drawn to her tales of solitude, courage, and the pursuit of striped bass under starlit skies.
A Trailblazer and Mentor
Janet fished with the best, learning from mentors like Jackie Coutinho and Bob “Hawkeye” Jacobs. Yet, she quickly became a legend in her own right, braving the darkness and the unknown to chase the elusive striped bass. Her courage not only paved the way for women anglers but also inspired a generation of fishermen and women to face their fears—both on and off the water.
“She was one of a kind,” said Lisa Belcastro, a fellow fisherman and member of Janet’s writing group. “She was brave and courageous, and she won her fight with addiction, sharing her story to help others.”
Janet’s fight with addiction was a defining chapter of her life. She got sober in 1985 and became an active member of the recovery community, helping others find their path to sobriety.
The Island’s Taxidermist and Wild Artist
In addition to her fishing prowess, Janet was the Vineyard’s only taxidermist for decades. Dissatisfied with sending fish off-Island to be mounted, she taught herself the art and quickly earned the trust of local fishermen. Her first customer, Johnny Hoy, brought her a 54-pound striped bass, and from there, her reputation soared.
Over time, Janet’s taxidermy evolved into what she called “wild art,” with her work displayed in galleries across the Island.
Sharing Her Story
Janet’s storytelling extended beyond her memoir. This past summer, she captivated audiences at The Moth, a storytelling series, where she shared the paradox of fishing—the thrill of the catch and the deep compassion for the creature at her feet. Her performance earned a standing ovation, a testament to her ability to connect with people through her words and experiences.
A Legacy of Love and Resilience
As news of her passing spread, the Martha’s Vineyard Striped Bass and Bluefish Derby paid tribute to her online, writing:
“It is with great sadness and admiration for a fishing life well-lived that we share the news of Janet Messineo’s passing. She will be missed deeply by so many.”
Janet leaves behind a legacy of courage, compassion, and determination. Her life was a testament to the power of passion and perseverance, and her impact on the fishing community and beyond will endure for years to come.
A celebration of Janet’s extraordinary life will be held soon. In her honor, let us cast into the light, embracing the challenges and joys that make life extraordinary.
Rest in peace, Janet. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
