Mike Sakamoto, who hosted the popular television show "Fishing Tales," died today in Honolulu at the age of 59 from complications of non-Hodgkins lymphoma.

Sakamoto became interested in fishing while growing up near Nu'uanu Stream and turned his passion into a popular TV show that ran for 16 years.

Sakamoto also was a painting instructor at Kamana Senior Center in Hilo and taught a fishing class with the University of Hawai'i-Hilo Continuing Education program.

He is survived by his wife Kathleen; son, Paul Sakamoto of Hilo; daughter, Stefanie Sakamoto; mother Peggy Murashima of Hilo; sisters, Pauline Higa, Paula Igawa and Jan Kodani.

Funeral arrangements are pending.