Even off the track, NASCAR stars Tyler Reddick and Denny Hamlin manage to deliver drama. While the two are rivals on the track, Hamlin is also Reddick’s employer, since he owns 23XI. Despite this, the two are seemingly great friends, giving fans snippets of their relationship frequently.

This time, it’s on a fishing trip gone hilariously wrong. The 23XI Racing driver-boss duo set sail for some relaxation, but their adventure quickly turned into a comedy of errors thanks to Hamlin’s struggles to reel in a big catch.

Fishing? More like missing

The pair set sail on the open blue seas alongside their group of friends and once they got to a suitable point, it was open fire and lines away for the two top drivers. It wasn’t long before they had a marine meal hooked. However, since it was Hamlin managing the pole, there were already concerned looks from Reddick. As tensions rose, Reddick couldn’t help but vent his frustration when Hamlin lost what seemed like a surefire prize. “If we don’t catch this fish, I’m gonna be f—— pissed!” he exclaimed before the elusive fish slipped away from Hamlin’s clutches (much like his title hopes). Hamlin then had his colorful reaction effing and bleeding as the surrounding gang was in hysterics at the fumble.

Tyler said, still seething and defeated as he walked off, “I’d rather fall in the f—— water next time than hand it off to Denny.” Shortly after the video was uploaded to Instagram, Hamlin himself commented under his own post claiming foul play on the final edit, “Suspect edit by @jareddallen. Way more to this story than meets the eye.”

Denny Hamlin may have a fondness for fishing, but not being able to catch might be something of a pattern for the Joe Gibbs Racing man. Right before the Round of 8 Homestead Miami race this year, Denny Hamlin chose to take some time off with his family in the form of a fishing trip. Although part of his mind stayed focused on the competition, it was the time he needed to unwind with family. His fiance, Jordan Fish set things up, and his daughter Molly, took a great interest in learning to fish.

However, one thing common between both fishing trips is Hamlin not being able to catch a fish. Following the trip, Hamlin revealed this in an episode of Actions Detrimental, where he said, “As for fishing, I didn’t catch anything, though my kids seemed to have a great time. Austin helped us with equipment, and Jordan made sure we had everything we needed. Molly, my daughter, was more interested in playing with the bait than fishing.” 

While these NASCAR pros are masters of high-speed precision, their fishing escapade proved the sea can humble even the most competitive spirits. Fans, meanwhile, got a good laugh at Reddick and his bosses’ less-than-perfect day out.

A well deserved break after a long year for Tyler Reddick and Denny Hamlin

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Despite the frustration of a lost catch, the fishing trip might have been a bit of lighthearted fun, but for Reddick and Hamlin, it marked a rare moment of reprieve in a grueling 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season. Both drivers have been locked in an intense title hunt, with Reddick showcasing his consistency and ability to deliver in high-pressure moments as a rising star and Hamlin balancing the weight of his veteran championship aspirations alongside managing 23XI Racing.

Even though Reddick wasn’t able to clinch his first title, the 28-year-old can be proud of his efforts as he made it to the final four after a clutch performance to win in Homestead after a final lap pass on 2023 Champion Ryan Blaney.

For the veteran, however, things haven’t been nearly as straightforward as his driver. Hamlin’s year has been especially demanding as he juggles his quest for an elusive first title and court appearances due to his 23XI Racing team’s involvement in an antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR. Despite these challenges, both drivers have kept the team competitive, demonstrating resilience on and off the track. Reddick’s adaptability and Hamlin’s relentless drive and leadership have propelled the duo deep into the playoffs, but the added stress hasn’t been lost on fans or the drivers themselves.

Perhaps this fishing trip wasn’t just about catching a big one—it was a necessary pause in the stormy seas of competition. Even if the big fish got away, the laughter shared on the boat was a small victory of its own.