Regional Ambassador Team
The Bending Branches Regional Ambassador team consists of the biggest up-and-comers in all of kayak fishing. All members have three things in common: they catch big fish often, they know what they’re talking about, and they use the finest paddles in the world. Our regional team is one small step below our national team, but just as hungry and important.

Adam Cawley
Hometown: Grovetown, GA
Kayak Fishing

Living in the Augusta, GA area allows me to be at the Savannah River or Clarks Hill Lake in about 25 minutes. This not only makes for an excellent fishery, but a diverse amount of water to cover and explore.
Aside from fishing, I also enjoy exploring new waters, meeting people and creating relationships. Traveling to new places and sowing into the lives of people is truly valuable. This creates an opportunity for me to learn from any individual and in return to share an experience or any knowledge that I have learned throughout my adventure in life. Angler Pro Savannah River (Augusta area) Savannah River and Ocmulgee River https://www.instagram.com/adam_cawley_/
Adam Cawley

Adam Riser
Hometown: Nashville, TN
Kayak Fishing

Adam Riser

Austin Hines
Hometown: Monroe, LA
Kayak Fishing

I absolutely love to fish, paddle, camp, and backpack and I consider myself an adventurer and angler! I frequently gather my gear on top of my Vibe Kayaks and paddle out with my Bending Branches Angler Pro out in the backcountry where I can set up camp, enjoy the scenery, fish and make sure I capture the backcountry in its essence. I enjoy photography as well where I can capture nature at a standstill. Angler Navigator Bayou DeSaird Black Bayou Lake NWR
Austin Hines

Bill Sikora
Hometown: Deerfield Beach, FL
Kayak Fishing

I am currently a ProStaff Team Member for Johnson Outdoors, Fishing Online, Rogue Fishing Company, Bruiser Baits, RedLine Lures, Vicious Fishing, and South River Outfitters. Some of my favorite fishing spots are any of the canals systems here in South Florida because there is no telling what you might catch.
My favorite Bending Branches paddle is the Angler Pro Plus. I have been using this paddle for a few years and it combines all of the attributes that I look for in a great paddle...lightweight, durable, and is easily adjustable! I have uploaded a few videos reviewing my Bending Branches paddles on YouTube so be sure to check them out on my channel, The Florida Bass Paddler! I can also be found on Instagram as #flbasspaddler Angler Ace South Florida Canals https://www.instagram.com/flbasspaddler/ # https://www.youtube.com/thefloridabasspaddler #
Bill Sikora

Blaine Upton
Hometown: Chapin, SC
Kayak Fishing

Blaine Upton

Brad Hicks
Hometown: Kettering, OH
Kayak Fishing

I am the pro staff manager for the Loveland Canoe and Kayak fishing team in Loveland, Ohio and spend a lot of time helping grow the sport of kayak fishing and paddling in my local area.
You can also catch me on The Paddle N Fin Podcast Network, The Final Cast segment, talking about fishing and kayak fishing related products. Great Miami River, OH Great Miami River, OH https://www.instagram.com/bradhicksfishing/
Brad Hicks

Buddy Miles
Kayak Fishing

Paddle sports Sales Manager for Naturally Outdoors
Founder of Pee Dee Kayak Anglers based out of Florence, SC
Been featured in Kayak Angler Magazine 3 times
Fly fishing enthusiast
Don’t discriminate. If it swims I’ll fish for it!
Buddy Miles

Casey Ryan
Hometown: Ottawa, Ontario
Kayak Fishing

I started really getting into paddling after I moved to Ottawa for University and purchased my first kayak together with my girlfriend. We started to explore the city by water, through canals and rivers. This naturally turned into me spending all my spare time out fishing in the kayaks. I started to explore more lakes out of the city and back where I grew up. I now split my time between paddling in the city and kayak fishing up in Ontario's amazing lakes and rivers.
I've always been a true multispecies angler but have started to more seriously fish for bass since 2017. Since starting to kayak tournament fish in 2017 I have made some great friendships, placed and won several tournaments, and placed second for Angler of the Year in 2019 in my local club. I am most at home on the water whether it's paddling the same small rivers and creeks I grew up on or exploring new bodies of water big or small. Angler Pro Carbon Algonquin Park Ottawa Valley back lakes https://www.instagram.com/caseywryan/
Casey Ryan

Chris Conder
Hometown: Columbia, TN
Kayak Fishing

At age 16, Chris took his first solo kayaking journey in his Vintage Folbot, making camp on the shores of Grand Lake in Northeast Oklahoma, where he called home for many years. Now, approaching 40, he and his wife Victoria, can be found floating the skinny water rivers of Tennessee in search of creek Smallmouth.
Accomplishments/Experience
-32 years fishing for various species
-21 years kayaking (on and off)
-Co-Founder Central Tennessee Kayak Anglers
-2017 Runner-Up AOY (CTKA)
-KAST Board of Directors member
-Owner of 'Jeeps and Kayaks' pages on IG/FB
-Host of 'The LOCT Challenge' (Head-To-Head competition)
-Co-Host of 'The Best Damn Kayak Fishing Show'
-Tournament Director for 2017 Tennessee State Championship
-2x qualifier for TN State Championship (2016 & 2017)
-2x qualifier for KBF National Championship (2017 & 2018)
-Feelfree Kayaks Fishing Team
-Line Out Custom Tackle ProStaff Conder Angler Pro Rippling Waters Skinny Water https://www.instagram.com/cjconder/ https://www.facebook.com/chris.conder
Chris Conder

Chad Foster
Hometown: Carlton, PA
Kayak Fishing

An advocate for the growth of the kayak fishing industry, I am the current Tournament and Chapter Director for the Kayak Anglers of Western Pennsylvania and am a regular participant not only in Kayak Anglers tournaments, but in the PA BASS Nation Kayak Series and the Hobie Bass Open Series! I won the Kayak Anglers of Western PA Angler of the Year in 2019! I am the current River’s Edge Canoe and Kayak Fishing Team Manager. Angler Pro Presque Isle Bay (Erie, PA) Susquehanna River https://www.instagram.com/chadboboutdoors/ https://www.facebook.com/chad.foster.180072
Chad Foster

Chris Arnold
Hometown: Kentville, Nova Scotia
Kayak Fishing

With its growing popularity, kayak angling tournaments and established tournament series that now allow kayak anglers have allowed me to use my knowledge and skills competitively. Since 2011, I have represented myself and my sponsors in many tournaments with excellent results. I hope this season is even better!
Cheers! Angler Pro Carbon https://www.instagram.com/alwaysfishin/
Chris Arnold

Chris Fowler
Hometown: Austin, TX
Kayak Fishing

Accomplishments/Experience
I’ve traveled the country and fished many different bodies of water with many amazing anglers. I’ll continue my journey doing that same thing over and over... the definition of a crazy person? Maybe, but I’m okay with that! Big Chris Angler Pro San Marcos River Devils River https://www.instagram.com/foul_hook_fowler/ https://www.theflytrapco.com/
Chris Fowler

Clay & Sheldon Grace
Hometown: Headland, AL
Kayak Fishing

Sheldon is currently 16 years old and in the 11th grade. He works part time at a local animal hospital. When he isn’t fishing, he also enjoys duck hunting and serving with his church’s youth group. Sheldon has spent many hours on the water and learned from experience how to effectively fish small creeks and rivers. A combination of paddling skills and reading the water has allowed him to find trophy fish in small water. Sheldon currently holds the Florida state record shoal bass caught from the scenic Chipola River.
When not at work or spending time with family you will most likely find Clay fly fishing for bass in the Choctawhatchee River. The accessibility and solitude that kayak fishing offers has given him a way to get out on the water and revel at God’s creation. Clay loves photography and art as much as fishing. He is always looking for new waters to paddle and explore in search of that perfect shot that he hopes will inspire others to get out on the water and paddle. Kayak fishing has taught both Sheldon and Clay the needs and benefits of conservation for native fish, especially in riverine ecosystems that they often paddle.
Accomplishments/Experience
Sheldon Grace
•Jackson Kayak Regional Fishing Team
•Bending Branches Ambassador
•Florida Shoal Bass state record holder
Clay Grace
•Jackson Kayak Regional Fishing Team
•Bending Branches Ambassador
•Alabama Scenic River Trail Ambassador Angler Pro Carbon & Angler Ace Coosa River Chipola River https://www.instagram.com/fishingwithgrace/
Clay & Sheldon Grace

Clint Henderson
Hometown: Rome, GA
Kayak Fishing

During this time, I got married to my high school sweetheart, Meredith, in 2002. We have 2 wonderful boys, Cael and Cade. They love to fish with dad. They also share something else with me, they both have bicuspid aortic valves, even though the doctors always told me it was non-hereditary. I had open heart surgery in 2011 at the age of 31 to replace my leaking valve with a mechanical one. Now I take Coumadin, a blood thinner, daily to keep my body from forming a clot on the valve and causing a stroke. That's why you will notice all the blood in my national championship pictures. I accidentally stabbed my finger Sunday morning and never got it to completely stop bleeding. I hope my boys never have to do that, the surgery or the Coumadin.
Enough about my ailments, on to my oldest brother and childhood hero. Charlie was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor in 2009, 1 week after his 40th birthday. I had always drank since age 14, it was how I coped with any and everything. But I let Charlie's diagnosis send me into the worst of my drinking days, before long I was in worse shape than him but I couldn't stop or fix it. I finally got clean for a few months leading up to my heart surgery, but I learned about a new demon after it. Pain pills. It wasn't long after the prescriptions ran out that I was back at the store buying beer, taking Coumadin. I totaled a 3/4 dodge cummins and got a DUI on December 17th of 2012. That's the day I took my last drink of alcohol. I lost my wife and kids for a year and a half. I volunteered myself through 2 different rehab programs and I found the program of AA, it saved my life. I recently celebrated my 4th year of sobriety and it means more to me than any fishing tournament ever will. But fishing is also an important part of my recovery.
Charlie's battle with brain cancer ended on October 22nd of 2016, he was 47 years old. He beat all the odds, and fought longer and harder than any of the doctors thought he could. A day has not gone by that I have not missed him. I miss our spur of the moment fishing trips that were always more of an adventure than a casual fishing trip. Charlie taught me to do more than what is expected of me. To go farther than anyone thinks I can. To face the unexpected or seemingly impossible with a smile on my face. And to help each and every person that I can along the way. It's for this reason I've included all this in my Bio. I'm here for more than just kayak fishing. I'm here to hopefully use my life experiences to help someone else. Please don't hesitate to send someone my way or reach out to me.
We had a small 2 acre farm pond where I grew up in Armuchee, GA. I can remember vividly watching one of the neighbors pull a monster 8+ lb bass out of there one day as I looked on from our front yard 1/2 mile away. I was probably about 5 years old. But I was hooked, I couldn't go down there by myself, I was too little. But every chance I got I went and fished for her. The lure of choice back in those days was a rubber worm or the highly coveted black jitterbug. I never got to use the jitterbug, I couldn't get it away from my bigger brothers. I do remember catching my first 3 pound bass out of that pond on a worm though.
A few years later we moved across the county to my Memaw and Pawpaw's land. Luckily the neighbor had a 5 acre lake full of timber and willow trees. It was pretty much the most awesome thing ever. I was a little older and newer lures got added to the arsenal, mainly a floating firetiger rapala, jointed if you were lucky. And then a zoom trick worm, and the slug go. I caught some big fish there on the slug go when it first came out, and I threw it at the national championship. I also graduated from an open face to my first baitcaster at that lake. I still have my first abu Garcia 5500's that I fished with there in my teen years. I also used them both during the national championship and caught my biggest fish on one of them. If that's not a testament to a product I don't know what is.
After high school at some point I ended up with a bass boat, it was the next logical step. I fished small local tournaments on Lake Weiss for a number of years. Even won a couple here and there. But it sure is expensive, glitter rockets burn a lot of fuel. And of course at this point I had spent my fair share of time in a canoe, whether at the neighbor's lake, in a creek, or in a river chasing stripers. I bought my first fishing kayak in 2013 and fell in love with the sport immediately. It was just icing on the cake when I learned of a local tournament club starting up, Reel Krazy Kayak Fishing Tour.
"Kayaking has single handedly changed my life" -Jim Ware
It has been through this club and this sport that I have met some true life long friends, most of the friends I had until that point turned out to just be drinking buddies. And Jim's words couldn't be more true for me. Kayak fishing helped me find the connection to God that I needed but had lost because of my drinking. And it's helping me connect with real people that have the same passion as me.
I love to fish for spotted bass, at this moment, they are my favorite species to target. And we have a few creeks and rivers around here that are loaded with monsters. Weiss Lake also has it's fair share of monster spots. They don't hit a lure to eat it, they aim to kill it. When I'm not fishing moving water I like to power fish shallow and muddy, usually 6 foot or less. Thanks for reading.
Accomplishments/Experience
2016 KBF National Championship-2nd place
2016 KBF AOY race-6th place
2017 KBF "The Ten"-7th place
2015 Reel Krazy Kayak Fishing Tour AOY race-2nd place
2016 KBF Southeast Regional Challenge June-1st place Angler Ace Etowah River Wherever they are biting right now https://www.instagram.com/tripleckayak/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/471704309706618/
Clint Henderson

Darrell Olson
Hometown: Charleston, SC
Kayak Fishing

I have been kayak angling since 2009. I'm one of the co-founders of the South Carolina Kayak Fishing Association’s monthly Meet and Fish events. I'm currently the Heroes on the Water (HOW) Coordinator of the Lowcountry SC HOW Chapter. I have been participating in the Inshore Fishing Association (IFA) Kayak Tour for the Atlantic Division since 2012. Additionally, I'm a member of the YakAngler Pro Staff managing the SouthEast section of the US, as well as a Regional Pro Staff Fishing Team Member for Jackson Kayaks, an Ambassador for Power Pole for the Micro-Anchor and Raymarine for the Dragonfly Fish Finder.
Accomplishments/Experience
Introducing Kayaking and Kayak Fishing to all that attend my seminars. I'm currently the Lowcountry SC Heroes on the Water (HOW) Chapter Coordinator. DDOlson Angler Pro The Charleston area The Charleston area https://www.instagram.com/darrelldolson/ https://www.youtube.com/user/DDOlsonCuda/ http://www.uffdaanglingkayakjourneys.com/
Darrell Olson

Dave Ohmer
Hometown: Erie, PA
Kayak Fishing

After my retirement from cycling, I settled down, married a great gal and enrolled in college. After earning a degree in Biology along with a Minor in Chemistry, I spent the first 10 years of my teaching career as a high school biology instructor before switching gears to the middle school level and teaching 7th grade life science.
A long-time hunter focused primarily on pursuing deer and turkey, a regional tick explosion which became problematic in 2010 led to a Lyme Disease scare and a desire to satisfy my outdoor fix in a more reasonable setting. Upon being introduced to fishing from a kayak in 2013, my desire to spend more time in the outdoors was satisfied and I became literally hooked on kayak angling.
While a very competitive person at heart, I found an extreme sense of peace through the simple act of pursuing fish, which has created a bit of a roadblock in getting all that serious about competing in kayak fishing tournaments. While I do enter a nominal number of kayak fishing tournaments each season, my main focus during the warm months is to simply spend time on the water with good folk, in search of memories as well as fish.
Accomplishments/Experience
* Bending Branches Regional Ambassador Team
* Team Bonafide at Bonafide Kayaks
* YakAttack Northeast US ProStaff
* Raymarine ProStaff
* Fishing Online Fishing Team
* Gamma Fishing ProStaff
* The Original O’Wacky Tool ProStaff
* 2018, 2019 & 2020 KBF National Championship Qualifier Angler Pro Carbon Georgian Bay, Ontario North Fork of the Holston River, VA https://www.instagram.com/fishing_the_814/ https://www.facebook.com/david.ohmer.1 https://bonafidekayaks.com/pages/dave-ohmer
Dave Ohmer

Dave Roberts
Hometown: China, TX
Kayak Fishing

Since then I have become infatuated with writing and capturing my encounters with nature. My goal is to inspire others to try kayaking and to enjoy the great outdoors. I also like traveling the coast to fish new places and meeting others that are apart of the kayaking community. I thoroughly enjoy the stalk of a tailing redfish in the shallows of the marsh; there is no finer sight! If I am not doing that, then I am sitting on the water during the middle of winter on the hunt for a trophy trout. Regardless of trying to catch a fish, I love paddling around on the water and enjoying life! Angler Pro Sabine Lake Sabine Lake https://www.instagram.com/superdave90/ http://www.texaskayakchronicles.com/
Dave Roberts

Devin Sijan
Hometown: Savage, MN
Kayak Fishing

After almost a decade break from fishing to attend college, get married & start a career in information technology, I found a new passion in fishing from a kayak. As a member of the Minnesota Kayak Fishing Association, I regularly participate in group fishing outings, clinics & tournaments in and around the Minneapolis metro area.
Accomplishments/Experience
Minnesota Kayak Fishing Association Member
2018 Big Toothy Team Tournament Champion Angler Pro Carbon Plus Local lakes and rivers Lake Erie https://www.instagram.com/mn_kayak_angler/
Devin Sijan

Donald Dehm
Hometown: Foley, AL
Kayak Fishing

My first time in a kayak was the day before a tournament in a friend's kayak, when he slyly asked me if I wanted to go fishing with him. I fished for a few hours and fell in love with it nearly immediately. I did not place in that tournament, but kayaking won a place in my heart and soul and I have been active in the sport ever since that day on Tybee Island GA. In fact, at the end of that tournament, I bought my first kayak!!
I did the tournament scene for a couple of years, but found that it was not right for me, I found myself focusing too much on the pressure to catch fish instead of the enjoyment of kayaking and fishing. I will do an occasional Charity tournament or two each year, but the every weekend drive to who knows where and focus solely on the competition just does not appeal to me any longer. I will leave that Tournament World to those who have found ways to balance tournament pressure and their passion of kayak fishing.
I began fishing conventional gear in the kayaks, but soon found myself transferring my passion for Fly Fishing to them very quickly. I learned how to kayak to accommodate my fishing passion. This led me to learn in a more professional manner on how to kayak, paddle, etc. I now only Fly Fish from the kayaks and I love it so much that I began teaching others the basics of Kayaking, Fly Fishing, and Kayak Fly Fishing in the hopes that they too can find their passions for this sport as I did back on that tiny Island in GA in 2008. Angler Navigator Plus Graham Creek Nature Preserve Bon Secour River https://www.instagram.com/donalddehm/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmrM3wiVkc3G40YK-4gHvOQ
Donald Dehm

Donny Bennett
Hometown: Franklin, TN
Kayak Fishing

In 2013, I bought my first kayak and just fell in love with kayak fishing. In 2015, I decided I wanted to fish in kayak tournaments. So I entered my first tournament in the local KBFTN on Percy Priest Lake. From that day. I have never looked back. Now I will be fishing the Bassmaster kayak series and the Hobie bass open series
I have been very fortunate with my fishing career over the last 6 years to meet some great people and get involved with some great companies. I hoping one day I will able to fish for a living.
Accomplishments
KBF series:
2 - 1st Place Finishes
1 - 2nd Place Finishes
2 - 3rd Place Finishes
25 - Top Ten Finishes Angler Pro Carbon Buffalo River Kentucky Lake https://www.instagram.com/donnybennettfishing_/
Donny Bennett

Henry Aguinaldo Jr
Hometown: Portsmouth, VA
Kayak Fishing

Accomplishments/Experience
Master Angler 1
Expert Angler in Yellow Perch
Jackson Kayak Regional Fishing Team
KetchUSA Staff
Astral Staff
Adams Custom Lures
Nichols Lures Angler Pro Any flowing river Lake Prince https://www.instagram.com/h.aguinaldo/
Henry Aguinaldo Jr

Ivan Hamilton
Hometown: Milton, Ontario
Kayak Fishing

Bending Branches Ambassador
Jackson Kayak Regional Fishing Team
The Complete Paddler= Pro/staff
Canadian Fishing Network= Kayak Guy
Power_Pole =Pro/staff
Kayak Fishing Tournament Director YAKMAN ONT Angler Pro Plus or Angler Navigator Lakes North of the City Largemouth Water https://www.instagram.com/yakman_ont/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100014721480990 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSqfhFEJ3oaN2bpLXTAU7gA
Ivan Hamilton

Jason Ricketts
Hometown: Cincinnati, OH
Kayak Fishing

Jason Ricketts

Jeffrey Rabbitt
Hometown: Pittsburgh, PA
Kayak Fishing

Accomplishments/Experience
2014 Kayak Anglers of Western Pennsylvania Angler of the Year
2014 Kayak Anglers Championship - 1st Place
2014 Kayak Anglers Angler of the Year
2015 Kayak Anglers of Laurel Highlands Pennsylvania Angler of the Year
2015 Kayak Anglers Championship - 1st Place 2015 Kayak Anglers Angler of the Year
2015 River Bassin Online Event Smallmouth Bass Angler of the Year
2016 River Bassin Online Event Smallmouth Bass Angler of the Year
Jeff Angler Pro Pymatuning Lake, Linesville, PA https://www.instagram.com/jeffrey_rabbitt/ https://www.facebook.com/jeffrey.rabbitt
Jeffrey Rabbitt

Jeremiah Burish
Hometown: La Crosse, Wisconsin
Kayak Fishing

Kayak fishing allows me to reach waters that boats cannot access. This shallow water fishing puts me closer to nature, away from the masses, and more in tune with the fish. My paddle is a vital tool for me to quickly travel to these areas and navigate these incredible shallows, often acting as a push pole more than a paddle. My paddle sees some abuse but the high durability and "beefed-up" blades with Rockgard edge protection of the Angler Navigator Plus is the perfect combination of speed and power I need for success on the water.
As the Director of Sports & Events for Explore La Crosse (La Crosse County Convention & Visitors Bureau), my duties are to attract and host sporting events, including that of major fishing tournaments. Some of these events include hosting the BASS Elite Series & Opens, FLW Tour, Major League Fishing Cup & Redcrest Championship, Kayak Bass Fishing Trail & Challenge Championships, Hobie Bass Open Series, BASS Nation Kayak Series, Walleye Team Championships, and more!
Although not a professional guide, I regularly host outdoor writers & media professionals on the water to garner content for numerous TV shows, articles, photos, and more. This is an extension of my duties at Explore La Crosse in order to further promote the Upper Mississippi River as one of the best fisheries in the country and showcase the beautiful La Crosse area. For anyone who has had the opportunity to experience the great fishing and incredible scenery the area has to offer, you know this part of my job is an easy task and oh so much fun!
I am proud to partner with and represent Bending Branches as well as other top industry brands such as Bonafide Kayaks, YakAttack, Blackfish Gear, Raymarine, ALX Rods, Tactacam, Dakota Lithium, Lure Lock, and Rod Sox. Angler Navigator Plus (shallows) and Angler Pro Plus (generlal paddling) Silly shallow waters Mississippi River backwaters out of La Crosse, WI https://www.instagram.com/jeremiahburish_bassfish/ https://www.themeateater.com/fish/freshwater/video-anglers-stunned-by-pikes-stomach-contents?utm_campaign=Video%20Anglers%20Stunned%20by%20Pikes%20Stomach%20Contents&utm_content&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook
Jeremiah Burish

Jim Ware
Hometown: Rome, GA
Kayak Fishing

10 years ago something magical happened, I fished out of a kayak and I knew that it would be my passion. Since then I have chased fish in saltwater, lakes and rivers...The more remote the better and these fish were my ticket for adventure. The past three years I have stepped into tournament bass fishing and this has introduced me to an entirely different aspect that our sport offers. Before, I was doing most of my fishing solo or with a few select friends but the competition world has introduced me to some of the most passionate, skilled and genuine kayak anglers on the planet. This brotherhood has been a welcome experience.
Accomplishments/Experience
Three Rivers Kayak Bass Fishing Tournament- 1st place
N. GA Reservoir Dogs Rocky Mtn PFA tourney -1st Place
River Bassin Cartersville GA- 3rd place and Big Fish
Competed in KBF Opens @ Ky Lake, Paris TN and Toledo Bend TX
2 time KBF National Championship qualifier
Co-founder of Peach State Kayak Anglers
Sponsors:
Jackson Kayak Fishing Team
Bending Branches Ambassador
iRod Fishing
Picasso Lures
Ardent Outdoors
Strike King VIP program Jimbo Angler Pro Santa Fe River, FL Wherever there are fish https://www.instagram.com/rivergoatkayak/ https://www.facebook.com/jim.ware.169
Jim Ware

Josh Bolz
Hometown: Dawsonville, GA
Kayak Fishing

I still live in Dawsonville, Georgia with my beautiful wife Megan and 3 amazing kids. My goal in life is to introduce as many people to fishing through partnering with companies and through my social media platforms. I live by the 5 F's - Faith, Family, Friends, Future, and last but not least Fishing. You can catch me searching any and every body of water for my next personal best. My top 3 favorite fish to chase are bass, crappie, and rainbow trout. Angler Pro Chestatee River, GA Chestatee River, GA https://www.instagram.com/bolzdeepfishing/ https://www.facebook.com/BOLZDEEPFishing/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_9tzYCKJOtECahv-0wiQPw https://sites.google.com/view/bolzdeepfishing/home
Josh Bolz

Joshua Evans
Hometown: Brunswick, MD
Kayak Fishing

I’ve been using Bending Branches paddles now for roughly 8 years and choose them over other brands for their combination of strength, light weight design and killer overall appearance. As an Army veteran with severe medical challenges, kayak fishing has provided me with a way to get away from it all and enjoy the serenity and peace of mind. I am a tournament angler and love introducing others to the sport. Mek & Tight Lines and Sharp Minds Angler Pro Carbon Plus or Copperhead Angler Pro Plus The Susquehanna River https://www.instagram.com/tightlinessharpminds/ https://www.facebook.com/JoshuaEvansFishing https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCphl9AuJwF4j4ARvtcc48Sw https://www.makbf.com/
Joshua Evans

Josiah Pleasant
Hometown: Juneau, Alaska
Kayak Fishing

Josiah Pleasant

JR Rowlands
Hometown: Winlock, WA
Kayak Fishing

JR Rowlands

Juan Gomez
Hometown: Chatfield, MN
Kayak Fishing

Accomplishments/Experience
- Owner/Founder of Reel Midwest Fishing
- ProStaff Team Member for JB's Fish Sauce, Cold Snap Outdoors, PowerTeam Lures, and Omnia Fishing
- KBF and Yak Bassin member and tournament angler Angler Pro Mississippi Backwaters - Pool 4 South Central Minnesota https://www.instagram.com/jgomez103/
Juan Gomez

Justin Floyd
Hometown: Greenville, SC
Kayak Fishing

This truly sparked my interest because I had just recently purchased my first fishing kayak and was hooked on the sport. I accepted this position in January of 2016 and spent the next two years commuting from Georgia to Greenville to work at Confluence. One hundred and sixty miles round trip every day. I put nearly 50,000 miles on my jeep within a year. On my first day of work, I took a tour of the facility and was given a brief rundown of the entire manufacturing process. I was mesmerized by the insanely huge roto-molding ovens. I didn't know it at the time, but one of those ovens would eventually become my baby and I would be responsible for the production of nearly 100 kayaks per day.
After spending only 1 week wrapping boats, I was transferred to the molding department. I spent the next 3 months working as a molder before being promoted to senior molder. As a senior molder, I managed molding operations on the production floor, inspected molds to insure they were free from defects, prepared and replaced mold changes for production, maintained quality standards, and trained/organized molders for maximized production. After filling my position of senior molder, I transitioned into a title of Mold Trainer where I would be responsible for training all incoming employees on the proper molding techniques and skills.
In October of 2017, I heard about a new company in the Greenville area called "Bonafide Kayaks" that was set to start up in the near future. Immediately, I was interested in joining the team that was ultimately orchestrated by Luther Cifers (mastermind behind YakAttack) and knew that I had to get my foot in the door. With Bonafide being a startup company, I was one of the first employees hired and the company officially launched on November 20, 2017. From then, I helped to establish molding operations and production processes that would eventually lead to getting quality, American-made kayaks shipped out across the country. In November of 2019 Bonafide was acquired by BIG Adventures LLC located in Fletcher, NC. BIG also manufactures Native Watercraft and Liquidlogic Kayaks. Currently, I am working in Marketing and Product Development for all three brands.
Accomplishments/Experience
Kayak enthusiast with a demonstrated history of working in the kayak manufacturing industry. Angler Navigator Plus Key West Below the Hartwell Dam on the Savannah River https://www.instagram.com/kayak_plug/ https://www.facebook.com/justin.floyd.319
Justin Floyd

Laurent Dupré
Hometown: Saint-Roch-de-I'Achigan, Quebec
Kayak Fishing

Accomplishments:
Fishing kayak sales consultant at Kayak Junky Store
Regional Ambassador at Mustang Survival
Pro Staff at Old Town Canoes & Kayaks
Ambassador at Bending Branches
Director of the Longueuil Fishermen's Association
Member of Muskies Canada Montreal and Association of Sport Fishermen of Quebec Angler Ace Everywhere the fish are https://www.instagram.com/scorpio_kayak_fishing/ https://www.facebook.com/ScorpioLDfishing/ https://www.youtube.com/user/SCORPIOLDFISHING https://scorpioldkayakfishing.ca/
Laurent Dupré

Matt Charette
Hometown: Acworth, GA
Kayak Fishing

Matt Charette

Matt Gibson
Hometown: Carmel, IN
Kayak Fishing

Matt Gibson

Matthew Trucks
Hometown: Long Neck, DE
Kayak Fishing

In 2008 I sold my fishing boat and was looking for a new way to get out on the water. Searching the internet for small fishing boats, I stumbled across sit on top style kayaks. These little plastic boats sparked my interest in fishing from a small platform such as a kayak. From that day on my skills and name has grown within the sport. My reason for kayak fishing is capturing the bliss and tranquility of being out on the water with the thrill of angling.
In early 2012, I was accepted to be a member of the Jackson Kayak Fishing Team and I also began volunteering as a kayak fishing guide for Heroes On The Water outings. Later in early 2013, I accepted an invite to join the New Jersey Chapter Leadership team. In 2016 I relocated to southern Delaware living right on the water a dream of mine. You can find me fishing at many major tournaments and Jamborees. You may even find me at a boondoggle here and there. I'm typically fishing anywhere from the shore of Virginia up to New York.
My favorite paddle is the Bending Branches Navigator followed by the Angler Pro, both with plus ferrule 240 - 255 CM
Accomplishments/Experience
• 8 Years Kayak Fishing Veteran (2008 – 2017)
• Jackson Kayak Fishing Team (2012 – 2017)
• YakAttack National Team
• Ram Mounts Pro Staff
• Sea-lect Designs Pro Staff
• MTI Adventurewear Ambassador Yak Chum Angler Navigator Sandy Hook, NJ https://www.instagram.com/theplastichull/ https://www.facebook.com/ThePlasticHull/ http://www.ThePlasticHull.net
Matthew Trucks

Mike Schmitz
Hometown: Nashville, TN
Kayak Fishing

I fish several kayak bass tournament trails as well as the Paralyzed Veterans of America Bass Tour. In addition to fishing, I run a disabled kayaking enthusiasts group on Facebook where information regarding the sport for disabled paddlers is shared. I also host several clinics throughout the year where individuals with disabilities are introduced to the sport of kayaking, whether it be for the first time or after a traumatic injury that has left them disabled.
Accomplishments/Experience
Regional Director for NuCanoe
Member of NuCanoe National Pro Staff and fishing team
Other pro staff positions held are with Rub Rail Lights, Anchor Wizard, Gator Patch, Funk Buster Baits, NeverLost Gear Leashes, All Pro Rods Angler Pro Cumberland River Lakes and rivers of middle Tennessee https://www.instagram.com/jagermiker/ https://youtu.be/CA7seYYg0c4
Mike Schmitz

Moo Lee
Hometown: Sacramento, CA
Kayak Fishing

Moo Lee

Preston Harris
Hometown: Hawkinsville, GA
Kayak Fishing

I am the founder/owner of Kayak Inshore Circuit which is bringing kayak tournaments to inshore anglers located around the coast of South Carolina. I am also the founder of Healing Adrift which is a non-profit organization that exists to combine the love of kayak fishing with the word of God! The goal of Healing Adrift is to get those who suffer from addiction, abuse, or life traumas out of their current situation and onto the water to enjoy God's beautiful creation.
Currently, I'm an avid kayak tournament angler and a family man. I love spending time with my family when not on the water and am also serving as the Youth Pastor at my local church. Angler Pro Snap-Button Any River https://www.instagram.com/pr3ss.fishing/ https://www.kayakinshorecircuit.com/
Preston Harris

Reese Melven
Hometown: Chapin, SC
Kayak Fishing

Reese Melven

Rhonda Phillips
Hometown: Braselton, GA
Kayak Fishing

In 2018, my fishing adventures around Georgia lead me to become the first official female angler to accomplish the Georgia Bass Slam (10 Black Bass Species). Not only will I attempt to use my southern sweet-talking to catch a fish, I also know how to fling a fly and is an active member of the Georgia Women Fly Fishers. Don’t be fooled by my shy, quiet demeanor because I'm liable to out fish you... or at least out fuss you when I miss a good fish (“son of a fish” is often heard over my cackling giggles). I will always attempt to be a constant encourager to all women to just get out there to enjoy the beauty of nature even if fishing isn’t their cup of tea… eh, coffee. FishNBun Angler Ace Any river Too many to name https://www.instagram.com/fishnbun/
Rhonda Phillips

Ricky Wolbert
Hometown: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Kayak Fishing

I'm the owner of Coastal Kayak Fishing Adventures and enjoy helping people get started in our great sport of kayak fishing. Proud to be a member of Bending Branches. https://www.instagram.com/rickywolbert/ https://www.facebook.com/ricky.wolbert http://www.coastalkayakfishingadventures.com/
Ricky Wolbert

Robert Brown
Hometown: Huntsville, AL
Kayak Fishing

Robert Brown

Stephen Hrynewycz
Hometown: Goshen, IN
Kayak Fishing

I fish for just about anything that swims in the local waters. My personal bests include a 6.5lbs largemouth bass, a 7lbs. smallmouth bass, a 48 inch muskellunge, a 42 inch northern pike, a 17 inch crappie, a 25lbs. carp, a 10lbs. dogfish, and a 4lbs. brown trout. As you can see I fish for anything but, my favorite is smallmouth bass. I have fished local tournaments and over the years have won many. But my biggest thrill now is to teach youngsters to fish and to guide people to the biggest fish of their lives. My favorite Bending Branches paddle is the Angler Pro. Angler Pro Keweenaw Peninsula https://www.instagram.com/hrynewycz/ https://www.facebook.com/FluidFun/
Stephen Hrynewycz

Steven Johnson
Hometown: Knoxville, TN
Kayak Fishing

In 2018, I saw the opportunity that kayak fishing presented and joined the NuCanoe Fishing Team. I’m a multi-species angler so having the versatility of a NuCanoe was critical to unlimiting myself on the water. I enjoy all types of fishing but have a special love for Fly Fishing. When I’m not fishing, I'm a digital marketer managing clients Google, YouTube, Facebook and Instagram advertising campaigns.
Accomplishments / Experience
• NuCanoe Fishing Team
• Frontier Outdoors USA Fishing Team
• Virtus Outdoors Brand Ambassador
• Bending Branches Regional Ambassador
Angler Ace Plus French Broad River https://www.instagram.com/steven_p_johnson/ https://www.youtube.com/sjoutdoors
Steven Johnson

Timmy Dixon
Hometown: Fries, VA
Kayak Fishing

In 2014 my company was started - New River Outdoor Adventures. We are a outdoor livery/store renting kayaks, canoes, tubes, and bicycles. We also offer a shuttle service and camping along the New River. My store carries a variety of fishing related items witch include kayaks, kayak accessories, paddles, pfd's, and fishing supplies . I am very passionate about my business and family so the consume a lot of my time. I love to fish, paddle, and catch big smallmouth. I am honored to represent my favorite paddle company! Angler Pro The New River I'm a New River native and have many spots on the river. https://www.instagram.com/newriveroutdooradventures/ https://newriveroutdooradventures.com/