“Do you want to be safe and good, or do you want to take a chance and be great?” That’s a classic Jimmy Johnson line—and at 81, he’s still living by it. The same fearless drive that took the Dallas Cowboys to back-to-back Super Bowl wins? Yeah, that fire is still burning. Only now, instead of the roar of the gridiron, he’s chasing adrenaline on the open water, deep in the Florida Keys. The love for fishing that began right from his childhood in Texas to his declining the invitation to the White House after the 1993 Super Bowl win, well, Johnson has had quite a fishing journey. 

Most folks know Johnson as a football legend, Hall of Famer, and 1990 AP NFL Coach of the Year. But those who still follow him know that he has turned his post-NFL chapter into a full-blown fishing lifestyle. And ever since he settled in Islamorada in the Florida Keys, it wouldn’t be far-fetched to state that he reached ground zero for world-class sport fishing. And now, his idea of a good time is reeling in Mahi Mahi and Wahoo like a total pro. After all, he has learned new techniques and a methodical approach. According to Anglers Journal, Johnson’s found a new kind of thrill in the chase, and it shows.

And recently, that passion has led to another big win—one that’s got his once mentees and fans giving virtual high-fives all over social media. He recently posted a shot of himself on Instagram holding a monster Mahi Mahi fish – almost the same size as himself – smiling wide. He captioned the post, “Nice Mahi this morning.” No frills—just vibes and victory. Of course, this is Jimmy Johnson we’re talking about—so you know it’s not just all about chill fishing trips.

He’s the brain behind the annual “Quest for the Ring” Championship Fishing Week, a seriously competitive tournament in South Florida with a $1 million prize pool. Yep, a million bucks! And just like in football, winners walk away with championship rings. Now in its 14th year, the tournament blends hardcore competition with dockside parties, epic hangouts, and a whole lot of bragging rights. Johnson even expanded the party to Atlantic City, bringing his high-energy vibe up north. Between celeb events and daily waterfront celebrations, the AC version is just as lit. His signature line? “COME & GET IT!”—and he means it. His fans and former students are all for it too.

When Jimmy dropped that Mahi Mahi pic on Instagram, it didn’t go unnoticed. Former Cowboys defensive tackle Tony Casillas slid into the comments with a simple, “Big Fish💪.” This one-liner speaks volumes. It was Johnson who recognized the potential of the now 61-year-old and signed him to the Cowboys. Jimmy Johnson wasn’t just a game-day strategist, he was (and still is) a mentor who pushes people to go all in, on and off the field. That quick comment from Casillas? It’s a nod to the respect he holds for his coach.

And that is just one chapter from the Walter Camp Coach of the Year’s book when it comes to fishing. Here’s another.

NBA legend and Jimmy Johnson’s Fishing Week

For Jimmy Johnson, fishing has largely been about relaxing while being on the water with a stereo on. But it didn’t take long for him to realize that there are passionate anglers who would like to compete. Just take the example of Michael Jordan and the JJFishWeek (Jimmy Johnson Fishing Week FL) that took place last month. The 14th edition of Ring of Honor by JJFishWeek (Jimmy Johnson Fishing Week FL) was held in South Florida and yes, you guessed it right! It did manage to attract significant attention from anglers and sponsors such as Contender, Yamaha, Papa’s Pilar, and Vera.

The event was hosted by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casin and carried a prize pool of $1 million guaranteed. And a portion of this prize money was bagged by Michael Jordan and his crew as they stood on the third spot. How much did they win though? Well, have a look at the standings:

• First place: Remix with 18 releases took home a total of $444,000.
• Second place: Paradise Found with 13 releases won a total of $ 206,500.
• Third place: Catch 23 with 12 releases for a total of $123,500 (Jordan’s crew).
• Fourth place: Sandrita with 12 releases took home a total of $41,250.
• Fifth place: Astra Sails with 11 releases got a total of $31,750.

For fans and former teammates, it’s inspiring to see him thriving post-football. And his journey proves that greatness isn’t locked into one part of life; it’s a mindset. One that sticks with you, whether you’re holding a Lombardi Trophy or a giant Mahi Mahi. So yeah, Jimmy Johnson’s still got it and he’s out here reminding us all: if you want something great—COME & GET IT!