It all started with a quirky hat and a quick chat at an Atlanta mall.

Robert Kapas, a 79-year-old retired marketing professional, was enjoying his day wearing his homemade fish hat when a stranger approached him. That stranger, Leo, also known as @leo.the.introvert on social media, was intrigued enough to ask about the unique accessory.

Kapas shared the story behind the hat, and Leo asked if he could film a TikTok video about it. Although Kapas described himself as “low-tech,” he agreed. Little did he know, this would be the start of something extraordinary.

The TikTok video, featuring Kapas and his fish hat, quickly went viral. “The next day, Leo called me and said the video had been viewed by 2 million people,” Kapas said. “By the end of the next day, it had been seen by 28 million people. I thought, ‘Oh my God, I have to set up a TikTok account.’” With Leo’s help, Kapas launched his own TikTok account, ‘Fish. Hat. Bob.’ A follow-up video posted on his account garnered 3.5 million views.

@fish.hat.bob #BestFishHat ♬ original sound – Fish Hat Bob

The fish hat journey began over 40 years ago when Kapas’ twin brother, Bill, received a similar hat as a Father’s Day gift from his 4-year-old daughter. Bill wore it religiously and became affectionately known as “Fish Hat Bill.” Decades later, the brothers decided to bring the concept to life, launching their company, FISHAT LLC, in November after 10 years of perfecting the design. “Last year, when we received the current hat, we knew the design was great and that it was a winner,” Kapas said.

As twins, we were extremely close and fished together often. This project was a lot of fun for two old men.”

Sadly, Bill passed away in January, just days after the brothers returned from a fishing trip. Determined to honor his brother’s memory, Kapas embraced the role of “Fish Hat Bob” and threw himself into the business. Thanks to the viral TikTok video, the first batch of 2,500 hats sold out quickly, and pre-orders have already surpassed 800. Kapas is also working on securing a patent and introducing a new color for the hats.

Robert Kapas and his brother Bill wearing their fish hats. Photo by Robert Kapas

The fish hat has become more than just a product; it’s a symbol of joy and connection. Kapas cherishes moments like the time he gave a free hat to a child who couldn’t afford one at an expo. “I said, ‘You have fun,’” Kapas said. Later, he discovered the child’s family owned a marina, leading to a heartwarming connection.

Kapas’ passion for the project shines through in every interaction. Recently, at a gas station, a woman excitedly recognized him. “She says to her husband, ‘There he is! It’s Fish Hat Bob, oh my gosh!’” Kapas said, laughing. For Kapas, the hats are more than just headwear — they’re a way to honor his brother, spread joy, and teach the art of fishing to a new generation.

@leo.the.introvert Replying to @Nathanael ♬ original sound – Leo The Introvert

Source: People