Backlash Consulting Group was started in 2025 by Jon Bulkeley (a.k.a. Big Jon; a.k.a. Big Perm (it depends on who you ask…)).

The story starts over 30 years ago in Ocean City, Maryland, where a lifelong passion for fishing first took hold — and never let go. Over the years, that passion grew alongside a legal education and successful career. With a decade of experience advising individual and corporate clients I’ve spent plenty of time solving complex issues affecting what matters most to my clients.

In 2022, I decided to step away from full-time legal work and refocus on what matters most to me: the sportfishing industry and the people who make it thrive. What started as a personal reset quickly transformed into something bigger — a way to apply unique insight and knowledge to the industry that I love by helping friends with any boat-related issues that came about.

Backlash Consulting Group officially came to life in 2025, after a laid-back lunch with a few seasoned captains where a recent issue on a local boat sparked a casual conversation that evolved into a rapid-fire brainstorming session of “what ifs.” Upon reflection on that conversation, and the dozens like it I’ve had over the years, it became clear that the industry needed a trusted resource — one that understands the complexities, and realities, of life on the water and the issues that come with it.

That’s the vision for Backlash Consulting Group. Offering practical advice, experienced guidance, and real support to captains, owners, and programs — from someone who truly gets it.