After years of trial and error these are products and companies we feel comfortable endorsing because of their price, quality, and overwhelming commitment to putting out the best products possible. Prior to going pro these are the products we have used and endorsed without any financial motivation. These brands have proven to be a good value, where many others have fallen short.
FISHING GEAR
Shimano - Shimano rods and reels have always been a great value and have quality products in everyone's price range. I currently own over 25 Shimano reels priced from $19.95 - $400.00. I have Shimano rods for all types of fishing and the Shimano Crucial has been by far my favorite multipurpose rod.
Rapala/ Luhr-Jensen - If I could only use one lure to fish with for the rest of my life I would pick Rapala's suspended X-Rap in Rainbow Trout finish. It just seems like they get it. Their prices have stayed reasonable while competitor's prices, with a less quality product, have gone through the roof. Luhr-Jensen (purchased by Rapala) has some of my all time favorites. The Coyote Spoon, Krocodile Spoon, and the Kwikfish plug.
Gamakatsu Hooks - The only hooks I trust with my trophy fish. They have never let me down.
Yamamoto - Their soft plastics are the best. Their Senko is hands down my favorite Bass lure. I currently have over 100 packs of Senkos and over 150 packs of Yamamoto grubs.
P-Line - After recieving several packs as a birthday gift I am completely sold! Your fishing line is your direct connection to your fish. Don't compromise.
Yakima Bait Company - Great local company that makes some of our favorite lures. The Rooster Tail, Flat Fish, FST, and one of my new favorites the Mag-Lip plug.
Lamiglas - Another great local company that makes possibly the best top-end rods on the market today.
Okuma - Reasonably priced products that stand the test of time. I have several Okuma reels that were in the $25 price range that I am still using ten years later.
BOATS AND ACCESSORIES
Alumaweld - I have fished exclusively out of Alumawelds for the last ten years. They have taken everything I have dished out and then some. From Neah Bay to the Snake River you will never find a better multi-species boat.
Yamaha - My 9.9 Yamaha kicker with electric start and power tilt has always got us safely home even in the worst conditions. I wouldn't trade it for any other brand.
Rogue Trailers - I have abused this thing. I currently have over 100,000 miles on my 2006 Rogue trailer, and have never had a problem with it.
Scotty Downriggers - I have two electrics with the extending arms and one manual that I run out the back. After five years of abuse in the salt they still perform as if brand new.
Lowrance - I have owned four and have two on my boat currently. They perform flawlessly and have literally saved my bacon on several occasions.
Minn-Kota Trolling Motors - I have had one of each of my last four boats. I have been completely satisfied. These are the only trolling motors I will ever buy.
VEHICLE AND VEHICLE SUPPORT
Dodge Ram - Currently have 124,000 miles of hard towing over mountain passes with no issues.
Les Schwab - If you have never experienced Les Schwab's extraordinary service you are in for a treat. They stand behind their products and have very fair pricing.
AAA Roadside Assistance - I would not let any member of my family leave our driveway without this coverage. Enough said.
OUTDOOR GEAR
Columbia - Best outdoor clothing I have ever owned. I have over 25 Columbia shirts some of which are over ten years old that still look like new. The products are always fairly priced with good return policies.
Simms Waders - I have purchased two pairs over the last ten years and still wear both of them. They have a great return and repair policy.
Oakley - Great polarization, durability, and provide outstanding eye protection. They have saved my eyes on several different occasions from flying lures and fishing weights.
MISCELLANEOUS
Jensen's Smokehouse - These guys have been smoking my fish for over 25 years. Their garlic pepper style fish is outstanding!
Cascade Marine Service - Always fair pricing with outstanding service! Big Dave Edison has been my go to guy for the last 15 years and has a reputation of being one of the best marine techs in the state. Give them a call at 425-303-0200