Skip to content
Regional Ambassador Team
The Bending Branches Ambassador team consists of the biggest up-and-coming names in all of kayak fishing. All of the members have three things in common. They catch big fish and do it often. They know what they’re talking about, and they all use the finest paddles in all of kayak fishing. All members represent the original kayak fishing paddle brand, Bending Branches. Proudly manufactured in Osceola, Wisconsin, USA, since 1982.
Adam Cawley
Hometown: Grovetown, GA
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Adam Cawley
#000000
Grovetown, GA
Hey y'all! My name is Adam Cawley. I was born and raised in Grovetown, GA. Bass fishing has always been a deep passion of mine. Currently, I focus on river paddling, flat-water paddling, bass fishing, and conservation. The kayak I am currently using is a Nucanoe Pursuit and Flint. The main reason I choose Nucanoe is due to the fishing platform which allows me to confidentially paddle and fish many different water conditions. 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
Adam Cawley
Adam Riser
Hometown: Nashville, TN
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Adam Riser
#000000
Nashville, TN
An avid kayak angler and national tournament competitor, spending multiple days a week on the water chasing trophy bass. I’ve found few joys as great as hunting for giant bass in hard-to-reach places that only a kayak can access, all while enjoying the awesomeness of nature.
Angler Pro
Tennessee River
Adam Riser
Austin Hines
Hometown: Monroe, LA
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Austin Hines
#000000
Monroe, LA
My roots as a fisherman go way back to when I was a young boy on a boat with my grandpa. I was introduced to kayak fishing in 2008.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
#738772
Bill Sikora
#000000
Deerfield Beach, FL
My name is Bill Sikora and I live in Deerfield Beach, Florida. I have been kayak fishing since 2004 and have fallen in love with the sport ever since. Two of my most cherished accomplishments are winning the 2015 Rod Salser Kayak Bass Challenge (Biggest Bass and First Place Overall) and finishing 6th overall in the 2015 Extreme Kayak Fishing Tournament Summer Slam Part 1. I am currently a ProStaff Team Member for Fishing Online, Rogue Fishing Company, Bruiser Baits, RedLine Lures, Vicious Fishing, South River Outfitters, and am also the founder for the Florida Bass Paddlers. My favorite fishing spots are the many South Florida canals because there are so many different species that you never know what your going to catch. My favorite Bending Branches paddle is the Angler Ace. 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 affordable! I can also be found on YouTube as The Florida Bass Paddler and on Instagram as #flbasspaddler
Angler Ace
South Florida Canals
#
#
#
#
Bill Sikora
Blaine Upton
Hometown: Chapin, SC
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Blaine Upton
#000000
Chapin, SC
I’ve been a tournament bass angler since the age of 9, competition is in my blood. I grew up fishing Lake Murray and the surrounding rivers in the Columbia SC area. I found kayak fishing a couple of years ago, and have loved competing in tournaments throughout the southeast. I’m on the board of directors of a KBF affiliate club, Palmetto State Kayak Bass Fishing and have loved getting further involved in the sport.
Angler Ace
Crystal River, FL
Broad River, Columbia, SC
Blaine Upton
Bradley Cody
Hometown: Carrollton, Georgia
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Bradley Cody
#000000
Carrollton, Georgia
Born and raised in the south, Bradley, like most kids spent majority of his afternoon after school and summer days outside. As a kid and early teenager he would travel through woods with tackle and rods in hand to bank fishing back woods lakes and ponds until the sun set.
With growing older, life came with challenges and setbacks and he lost touch with the water until a great friend got him reeled back to the water. It didn't take long for Bradley to get the hook set and in the first year of tournament fishing he qualified for the 2018 Kayak Bass Fishing National Championship on Kentucky Lake. When Bradley is not in his Bonafide Kayak, he still makes time for bank fishing with his four daughters. He enjoyed teaching them about fishing and sharing a passion of purely enjoying nature’s sights and sounds. Bradley is currently fishing with the Westbrook Supply Co. Fishing Team out of Atlanta, Georgia headed by Fletch Griffin. He is on the Pro-Staff with SeaKnight and an Expert with Anglr as well a Regional Ambassador here at Bending Branches. #Keepinitreel Angler Pro Carbon Plus Little Tallapoosa River and Chatahoochee River I go where the fish are. https://www.instagram.com/bradleycodyfishing/ https://m.facebook.com/BradleyCodyFishing/?ref=bookmarks https://www.youtube.com/user/BendingBranchesTV?feature=mhee https://www.westbrooksupplyco.com/brad-cody
Bradley Cody
Brad Hicks
Hometown: Kettering, OH
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Brad Hicks
#000000
Kettering, OH
Brad started fishing at a young age with his dad at lakes and ponds all around Ohio. Shortly after Brad moved out on his own, he discovered his passion for river fishing. Since then, he’s dedicated a lot of his time fishing the Great Miami River, The Little Miami River, Stillwater River, and Mad River in Ohio in hopes of finding the elusive 20” river smallmouth. His favorite species to chase is the river smallmouth bass. Brad is a Team Bonafide member and part of the Loveland Canoe and Kayak fishing team in Loveland, Ohio.
Great Miami River, OH
Great Miami River, OH
Brad Hicks
Buddy Miles
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Buddy Miles
#ffffff
Level 2 ACA kayaking instructorPaddle 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
#738772
Casey Ryan
#000000
Ottawa, Ontario
Hi, I'm Casey Ryan. I have been fishing all my life. I started fishing with my Dad and my grandparents in Killaloe Ontario, in back lakes and rivers. We fished for all kinds of fish, in canoes and boats, from docks and bridges. Growing up I especially loved fishing for brook trout and panfish and spent a lot of time chasing them. 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
Casey Ryan
Chris Fowler
Hometown: Austin, TX
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Chris Fowler
#0f0f0f
Austin, TX
Born and Raised in Corpus Christi, Texas as a beach kid. I’ve been fishing for as long as I can remember. It’s just always been a part of my life. Kayak fishing keeps me focused and allows me to blow off steam as well as support my insatiable addiction for catching slimy critters. All species anytime anywhere.
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
Chris Fowler
Christopher Arnold
Hometown: Kentville, Nova Scotia
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Christopher Arnold
#000000
Kentville, Nova Scotia
2020 marks my 25th season angling from kayak so I have experience with many paddle brands and designs. Bending Branches exceeds them all. My favourite being the pro carbon 😎. I have paddled and fished my local waters since early childhood as NS has amazing lakes and rivers plus surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. There’s too many species to list here that are available to a savvy multi-species angler throughout the Maritime provinces to target. I fish them all, large and small, salty and fresh... this is the way 🎣
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
Christopher Arnold
Clay & Sheldon Grace
Hometown: Headland, AL
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Clay & Sheldon Grace
#000000
Headland, AL
Clay and Sheldon Grace are a father/son kayak fishing duo from Southeast Alabama. Time on the water is a family affair. They enjoy paddling and fishing numerous creeks and rivers in Alabama, Georgia, and Florida. The skinnier the water the better, as they prefer to paddle moving waters in search of trophy river bass from their Jackson Kayaks.
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
#738772
Clint Henderson
#000000
Rome, GA
A little backstory on me to let you know who I am. I'm the youngest of 3 brothers, Charlie, Clay, and me, Clint. They are 10 and 11 years older than me. We all wrestled in high school. Charlie was a state champion, Clay got 2nd and 3rd, and I ended up 4th in the state my senior year. All I ever wanted was to be a state champion like Charlie, well Clay too, he lost on a bad call by the ref. I had been lost for a long time after not achieving that goal, it hit me hard, and I had no plan in place for what to do next. I tried college, but it bored me. I ended up getting an automotive degree from a technical college, and worked as a mechanic for a few years before settling at Southeastern Mills as a line operator and later Quality Technician.During this time I got married to my high school sweetheart, Meredith, in 2002. We have 2 wonderful boys, Cael age 11, and Cade age 9. 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.facebook.com/groups/471704309706618/
Clint Henderson
Darrell Olson
Hometown: Charleston
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Darrell Olson
#000000
Charleston
Darrell Olson an avid Fisherman enjoys bait fishing, using a spinning rod, bait caster, fly rod, and fishing challenges that come his way. While living in England he was recognized as the 1981 Master Angler from the Rod & Gun Clubs of Europe. He has been kayak angling since 2009. He is one of the co-founders of the South Carolina Kayak Fishing Association’s monthly Meet and Fish events. He is currently the Heroes on the Water (HOW) Coordinator of the Lowcountry SC HOW Chapter. He has been participating in the Inshore Fishing Association (IFA) Kayak Tour for the Atlantic Division since 2012. Darrell is a member of the YakAngler Pro Staff managing the SouthEast section of the US. He is also 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.youtube.com/user/DDOlsonCuda/ http://www.uffdaanglingkayakjourneys.com/
Darrell Olson
David Ohmer
Hometown: Erie, PA
Kayak Fishing
#738772
David Ohmer
#000000
Erie, PA
Dave Ohmer was born and raised in Northwest Pennsylvania along the shores of Lake Erie. Following graduation from high school, he spent the next 12 years of his life competing in bicycle races across the United States, a stretch of time that culminated in over 120 wins and his qualification to compete in the 1988 US Olympic Trials in the Men’s Bicycle Road Race. After his retirement from cycling, Dave settled down, married a great gal and enrolled in college. After earning a degree in Biology along with a Minor in Chemistry, Dave spent the first 10 years of his teaching career as a high school biology instructor before switching gears to the middle school level and teaching 7th grade life science.
A longtime 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 his outdoor fix in a more reasonable setting. Upon being introduced to fishing from a kayak in 2013, Dave’s desire to spend more time in the outdoors was satisfied and he became literally hooked on kayak angling. While a very competitive person at heart, Dave 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 Dave does enter a nominal number of kayak fishing tournaments each season, his 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
David Ohmer
Dave Roberts
Hometown: China, TX
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Dave Roberts
#000000
China, TX
I grew up in the little town of China here in Southeast Texas. The Gulf coast and Sabine lake has never been a far drive, so I have spent my entire life being on the water. As a family, we would always take our boat out but once she broke down, I purchased my first kayak. Needless to say, I was instantly hooked and it has lead me down a road that I never would of imagined. 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
Dave Roberts
Devin Sijan
Hometown: Savage, MN
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Devin Sijan
#000000
Savage, MN
Devin was born in Toledo, Ohio before moving to Minnesota with his family at the age of 3. Growing up in the land of 10,000 lakes provided many opportunities to get on the water to fish, swim, & appreciate nature's beauty. Growing up fishing with his father provided many life lessons about patience, failure, and a desire to care for our natural resources. After almost a decade break from fishing to attend college, get married & start a career in information technology, Devin has found a new passion in fishing from a kayak. As a member of the Minnesota Kayak Fishing Association, he regularly participates 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
Donny Bennett
Hometown: Franklin, TN
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Donny Bennett
#000000
Franklin, TN
I was raised on a cattle farm in southern middle Tennessee. I started fishing at the age of 5. I spent all of my free time on the Tennessee River /Kentucky Lake in west Tennessee. The Tennessee river chain has some if the best fishing waters in TN.
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
Donny Bennett
Eric Atkins
Hometown: Huntsville, AL
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Eric Atkins
#000000
Huntsville, AL
Hello folks. I am Eric Atkins and I’m from Alabama the Beautiful or as some biologists call it "America's Amazon". I’m a husband and father of two future adventure buddies. Our family lives in North Alabama near Lake Guntersville and Lake Wheeler. In fact, our backyard is a protected wildlife habitat and contains waters that flow into Lake Wheeler.
I’ve always grown up near water. In my earliest years, there was just a screen door, a clothesline, barn, and a few hundred acres of pasture between me and Lake Guntersville backwater. Catching crappie from the bank of upper Lake Guntersville by the light of a kerosene lantern has burnt fond memories into my head. Later in my childhood, we moved to east Tennessee to a farm that had a creek flowing across the bottomland into the Hiwassee River. There my sister and I had a blast trying to catch catfish, rock bass, perch, and the infrequent rainbow trout.
I want to instill within my daughter and son a sense of wonder and awe towards creation. From our back porch in Huntsville, Alabama, we can observe wonderful creatures living in their natural environment. Eagles, owls, coyotes, deer, pileated woodpeckers, chipmunks, and great herons are just a small sample of the magnificent creatures we regularly see at our home.
Bending Branches paddles help me explore our world. Their paddles help take me to places that would otherwise be inaccessible; alligator-filled swamps, shallow flats on the Tennessee River, tiny creeks that are sometimes better described as ditches. Although, I’m just 5-foot 10-inches tall, I prefer 260cm paddles. The longer length comes in extremely handy while standing in my Jackson Kayaks. I use the lightweight and strong Angler Pro paddles in SUP situations on nearly every fishing trip. The extra length also gets used when trying to navigate around, over, under, and through some of the gnarly underbrush, trees, beaver dams, and other obstacles I hope to encounter on each trip.
Accomplishments/Experience
* Cover, Kayak Angler Magazine, Summer 2014
* Headline shot 2016 iCast booth for Jackson Kayak
* 2014 Top 20 River Bassin' Tournament Trail
* Various photos and media used by industry partners
* Current local club record longest black bass: 24.75-inches
* First Tournament Trail Director for the North Alabama Kayak Anglers (2014)
* Bassmaster and FOX Sports Outdoors Catches of the Week
* Consults with various outdoor product companies
* Leader of Alabama Kayak Anglers
Pro Staff, Partners, and Ambassadors with: * Jackson Kayak * LifeProof * YakAttack * Power-Pole * Red Fox Wireless * Orion Coolers EA Angler Pro Cossa River, Wetumpka, AL Small streams with good flow https://www.instagram.com/ericatkins/ https://www.facebook.com/ericatkins https://www.youtube.com/ericatkins https://ericatkins.com/
Eric Atkins
Henry Aguinaldo Jr
Hometown: Portsmouth, VA
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Henry Aguinaldo Jr
#000000
Portsmouth, VA
Jumping head over heels into the kayak fishing community, Henry wasted no time creating a foundation of fun and adventure in his fishing habits. He’s had much success in the state of Virginia catching trophy-sized fish on his time off from his tugboat career on the water, despite only being two and a half years into fishing. Henry loves overnight camping on the rivers with his wife, 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
Henry Aguinaldo Jr
Ivan Hamilton
Hometown: Milton, Ontario
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Ivan Hamilton
#738772
Milton, Ontario
Accomplishments/ExperienceBending 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 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
Jeremiah Burish
Hometown: La Crosse, Wisconsin
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Jeremiah Burish
#000000
La Crosse, Wisconsin
I have been fishing since I was 10 years old but just recently began tournament fishing. My first ever kayak fishing experience was during a Kayak Bass Fishing Trail event in 2017 out of La Crosse, WI. I finished third in that tournament and the format and excitement of the kayak tournament scene absolutely hooked me. Since that time, I have competed in many national and regional series events (47 in total) and have amassed 28 top tens, six 3rd place finishes, four runner-up finishes, and three tournament wins. 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
Jeremiah Burish
Jim Ware
Hometown: Rome, GA
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Jim Ware
#000000
Rome, GA
Since childhood I have wanted to see what was around the bend in the river, see where it would take me...Not look at it from a distance but taste, feel and absolutely wallow in what it had to offer.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.facebook.com/jim.ware.169
Jim Ware
Josh Bolz
Hometown: Dawsonville, GA
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Josh Bolz
#000000
Dawsonville, GA
Josh was born and raised in Dawsonville, Georgia and he wouldn't have it any other way. His father was part of the Georgia Department Of Natural Resources and taught him the ins-and-outs of every aspect of the outdoors. Currently He is working with numerous fishing companies providing product testing, photography, content creation,marketing and competing in kayak fishing tournaments. He still lives in Dawsonville, Georgia with his beautiful wife Megan and 3 amazing kids and his goal in life is to introduce as many people to fishing through partnering with companies and through is social media platforms. Josh lives by the 5 F's - Faith, Family, Friends, Future, and last but not least Fishing. You can catch him searching any and every body of water for his next personal best. His top 3 favorite fish to chase are bass, crappie, and rainbow trout.
Angler Pro
Chestatee River, GA
Chestatee River, GA
https://sites.google.com/view/bolzdeepfishing/home
Josh Bolz
Juan Gomez
Hometown: Chatfield, MN
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Juan Gomez
#000000
Chatfield, MN
Juan was born in Mexico before moving to Southeastern Minnesota at the age of five. From a young age, Juan loved the idea of fishing and once he learned how to catch a fish, he was hooked for life. It wasn't until he turned twenty-one that he began targeting bass, but once he figured that out, his passion for fishing intensified. It wasn't about just catching fish anymore, it was sharing the passion that he has for fishing and hoping to get people hooked on fishing. In 2017, he founded Reel Midwest Fishing, a group dedicated to get people out and fishing and teach them to respect the outdoors. Now, Juan is participating in Kayak Bass Fishing, TourneyX, and Yak Bassin tournaments!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
Juan Gomez
Justin Floyd
Hometown: Greenville, SC
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Justin Floyd
#000000
Greenville, SC
Full name is Justin Frank Floyd...born February 27, 1993, in Knoxville, Tennessee. I attended Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina, where I played Division 1 football and graduated with a degree in Health Science. After graduating, I had full intentions of obtaining a postgraduate degree in Sports management and pursuing a career involving college athletics. However, after doing some research, I came across a job listing on Indeed posted by Confluence Outdoor (the largest kayak manufacturer in the world) for a position wrapping kayaks at the end of an assembly line. 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
Justin Floyd
Matt Ball
Hometown: Little Hocking, OH
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Matt Ball
#000000
Little Hocking, OH
I am an avid outdoorsman who loves to spend time in Gods great creation with my family and friends. I am a proud husband and father to a wonderful wife and 4 incredible kids who love to spend time in the outdoors with me as a family. We enjoy camping and kayaking together in the beautiful mountains of West Virginia and hills of Ohio. I enjoy fishing tournaments across the country with KBF and Riverbassin' and in my home area with Mountain State Kayak Anglers throughout the year. I love to fish competitively but most of all love the fun and fellowship that fishing out of a kayak has brought to my life.
Accomplishments/Experience
2016 Kayak Bass Fishing National Champion
2016 KBF winner of the Best of the Best
Jackson Kayak Pro Staff
412 baitco.
fishingonline.com
13 fishing Angler Pro Plus Hocking River, OH New River, WV
Matt Ball
Matthew Trucks
Hometown: Long Neck, DE
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Matthew Trucks
#000000
Long Neck, DE
Matt was born and raised in New Jersey and has been fishing there since he was a young boy. At first weekends with his father in the bays of NJ, NY, and offshore also with friends at local ponds. He has acquired many fishing skills over the years fishing with his father and friends.In 2008 he sold his fishing boat and was looking for a new way to get out on the water. Searching the internet for small fishing boats he stumbled across sit on top style kayaks. These little plastic boats sparked his interest in fishing from a small platform such as a kayak. From that day on his skills and name has grown within the sport. His reason for kayak fishing is capturing the bliss and tranquility of being out on the water with the thrill of angling.
In early 2012 he was accepted to be a member of the Jackson Kayak Fishing Team he also began volunteering as a kayak fishing guide for Heroes On The Water outings. Later in early 2013 accepted an invite to join the New Jersey Chapter Leadership team. In 2016 he relocated to southern Delaware living right on the water a dream of his. You can find him fishing at many major tournaments and Jamborees. You may even find him at a boondoggle here and there. Typically fishing anywhere from the shore of Virginia up to New York.
His 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 http://www.ThePlasticHull.net
Matthew Trucks
Mike Schmitz
Hometown: Nashville, TN
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Mike Schmitz
#000000
Nashville, TN
Mike was born and raised in southern FL where fishing was his main priority. It didn't matter if it was freshwater or in the salt, he was happiest while holding a fishing rod. Fast forward to now, Mike enjoys chasing black bass and striper in middle Tennessee's lakes and rivers. Introduced to kayak fishing in 2015, Mike was instantly "hooked" on his new found freedom and can't get enough of it. He fishes several kayak bass tournament trails as well as the Paralyzed Veterans of America Bass Tour. In addition to fishing, Mike runs a disabled kayaking enthusiasts group on Face Book where information regarding the sport for disabled paddlers is shared. He also hosts 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
Mike is a Regional Director for NuCanoe, a member of their 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://youtu.be/CA7seYYg0c4
Mike Schmitz
Moo Lee
Hometown: Sacramento, CA
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Moo Lee
#000000
Sacramento, CA
I grew up fishing in the San Francisco Bay Area and have fished all my life. I started kayak fishing in 2014 and became an addict. I love the intimacy with the water while on a small plastic boat. I'm a multispecies kayak angler who enjoys all types of water and all types of species but my absolute favorite is the Pacific Ocean chasing king salmon, halibut and lingcod. There is no better feeling than being out in the Big Blue on a kayak. I became a well known kayak fishing and kayak fishing safety advocate in Northern California through YouTube.
MooMoo
Angler Navigator
Pacific Ocean
https://www.instagram.com/moomoo_outdoors/
http://youtube.com/moomoooutdoors
Moo Lee
Reese Melven
Hometown: Chapin, SC
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Reese Melven
#000000
Chapin, SC
I have been fishing my whole life, and kayak fishing for 8 years now. I am going on my second year tournament fishing from a kayak, I fish local and National tournaments across the southeast. When I’m not fishing tournaments, you can find me in the current of the rivers chasing small mouth bass and big large mouth bass!
Angler Pro in Radiant
Saluda River
Broad River
Reese Melven
Rhonda Phillips
Hometown: Braselton, GA
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Rhonda Phillips
#000000
Braselton, GA
Rhonda may have grown up in Florida but she calls gorgeous Georgia her home. Her love of nature inspired her to become a Certified Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator for several years, (specializing in rabbits) before she was introduced to fishing on her first blind date by her now fiancé. Since then she has been hooked and eagerly seeks new knowledge and challenges in all aspects of fishing, whether it be new techniques, gear, locations or different species. In 2018, her fishing adventures around Georgia lead her to become the first official female angler to accomplish the Georgia Bass Slam (10 Black Bass Species). Not only will she attempt to use her southern sweet-talking to catch a fish, she also knows how to fling a fly and is an active member of the Georgia Women Fly Fishers. Don’t be fooled by her shy, quiet demeanor because she’s liable to out fish you... or at least out fuss you when she misses a good fish. (“son of a fish” is often heard over her cackling giggles) She 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
Rhonda Phillips
Ricky Wolbert
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Ricky Wolbert
#ffffff
Ricky Wolbert is Philadelphia native with saltwater in his veins. As an ACA Level 1 kayak instructor, fishing guide and tournament angler, he specializes in striped bass, bluefish, weakfish (grey trout), and fluke (flounder) with both fly and conventional light tackle, along the New Jersey shore’s beaches, back bays, and rivers. Not to mention he likes to chase smallmouth bass and trout in the Delaware River as well.
Rick is owner of Coastal Kayak Fishing Adventures and enjoys helping people get started in our great sport of kayak fishing. Proud to be a member of Bending Branches. http://www.coastalkayakfishingadventures.com/
Ricky Wolbert
Rob Wright
Hometown: West Bloomfield, MI
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Rob Wright
#000000
West Bloomfield, MI
Grew up in Southeast Michigan. Fished the many lakes around me as a kid. 2016 I fished out of a kayak for the first time and instantly was obsessed. I primarily target bass. Whether it’s fishing for Chunky largemouth in some of the backwater marshes by me or driving a hr east and chasing those Lake St Clair Smallmouth. The choices are plentiful and all can be enjoyed from a kayak. The importance of having a strong, reliable and durable paddle with you out on the water is always a must and Bending Branches delivers just that. I am proud to be a part of the Bending Branches team.
Angler Classic
Any backwater marsh
Eagle Bay
https://www.instagram.com/mitten_state_fishing/
Rob Wright
Robert Brown
Hometown: Huntsville, AL
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Robert Brown
#000000
Huntsville, AL
I grew up in Central Florida where fishing and the outdoors was a large part of life. My family would fish fresh and some saltwater depending on what was in season. Fishing was a way to spend time together and have fun. After spending time in the military, I finally settled down in North Alabama where I was introduced to kayak fishing. I instantly fell in love with the sport and it became my passion. I enjoy chasing fish regardless the species. However, I have to admit that redfish are probably my favorite.
Angler Ace
Palma Sola Bay, FL
Flint River, AL
Robert Brown
Stephen Hrynewycz
Hometown: Goshen, IN
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Stephen Hrynewycz
#000000
Goshen, IN
My Name is Stephen Hrynewycz. My home town is Goshen Indiana, where I currently live. We are blessed with several rivers within a 30 mile radius, which is my favorite place to fish. I like to paddle in the upper peninsula of Michigan in the Keweenaw Peninsula. I started fishing the local rivers since I was 13 years old. 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
Stephen Hrynewycz
Steven Johnson
Hometown: Knoxville, TN
Kayak Fishing
#738772
Steven Johnson
#000000
Knoxville, TN
At the age of 7, my family packed up in North Carolina and moved to Spanish Wells, Bahamas. It was there that my love for the water began. Countless days of motoring around the island in my little 6ft boat, deep sea fishing and free diving are some of my fondest memories. After a few years of “Island Life” our family packed up and moved to Tennessee where I began freshwater fishing for the first time. I was able to find my "Bahamas" exploring the shallow rivers and shoals found throughout the Tennessee Valley. 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
#738772
Timmy Dixon
#000000
Fries, VA
My name is Timmy Dixon and I'm from a small town here in Virginia. I have lived in Fries, VA. all my life. I started fishing at an early age, partly because the New River was in my backdoor. Fast-forward to 2013 I started floating a kayak while fishing the river. Almost every year I continued to make connections in the industry. Steadily bettering myself fish a few trail event and some online tournaments. 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!
Angler Pro
The New River
I'm a New River native and have many spots on the river.
