Anton Stetzko

Anton "Tony" Stetzko, of Orleans, Massachusetts, died February 25, 2015 after complications of pneumonia. Born in Perth Amboy, New Jersey October 27, 1950 to Helen (Skibo) and Anton Stetzko Sr. Tony graduated from DuCret School of Art and shared his love of the outdoors and fishing through his sought-after watercolor paintings and carvings. Tony primarily made his living as a printer, owning Cape Copy Shoppe in Orleans. If you asked Tony what he did for a living, he would tell you he was surf fishing guide and artist. In 1981 Tony landed the world record striped bass, weighing in at 73 lbs, a record he was proud of and a particularly impressive feat given that it was caught from the beach. This launched Tony from local legend to widely-known striped bass guru. No one fished the beaches harder than Tony, and he had numerous surf-caught stripers over 60 lbs during his career. He was always willing to share a tip or lend advice to anyone who sought him out. More than anything, Tony had a great enthusiasm for life, sharing stories and making everyone he met feel special. He will be sorely missed by his many friends, loved ones and all surf fisherman. He leaves his son Anton of Orleans, a sister Julie and brother-in-law David from San Mateo, CA, and two nieces. A celebration of his life will be May 23 with details to follow. Donations may be made out to Jennifer Mentzer; D.B.A Surfcasters Enrichment Fund c/o Cape Cod Five Savings Bank, Box 86, Orleans, Mass 02653.