Perry grew up in San Francisco and was second-generation co-owner of the famous outdoor supply retailer G&M Sales on Market and Gough streets in San Francisco. In 2004, the 54-year old business closed and Perry pursued his real passion - fishing. He became a Coast Guard 100-ton Sea Captain and for 10 years, in Sausalito, he organized 6-pack fishing charters mostly for salmon but also for rockfish in the ocean and halibut and bass in the Bay.

Today, he spends much more time in Napa in the vineyard and has been exploring lake boating at Hennessey and Berryessa.