Pro Staff
To demonstrate the advantages of St. Croix rods we have enlisted some of the world’s most avid and accomplished anglers. As our ambassadors, these individuals field test our products, consult with our engineering teams and share their expertise on the lakes and shores around the country.
Pro Staff
Linders
Like St. Croix, Lindner Media Productions is a family run business dedicated to creating an exceptional product. The Lindner Family has been producing television fishing shows for close to 50 years now and they could have never done this without passion. The Lindner Crew eats, sleeps and breaths fishing and it’s the same for St. Croix. Fishing, family and passion makes for an amazing partnership.
Chad LaChance
Colorado
Successful angling is rooted in confidence..confidence in our knowledge, confidence in our abilities, and
confidence in our tools. And while fishing may involve many tools, the rod itself is at the top of the
list. That’s why every single episode of Fishful Thinker TV - all 221 of them over 17 seasons- have been
filmed with a familiar St Croix Rod in hand. It’s why the Fishful Thinker guides and clients all fish
St Croix’s, and why we fish them on all adventures, bass to bonefish, tuna to trout, fly, cast, or spin.
St Croix handcrafts rods in a way reminiscent of angling itself where steely-eyed woodsmanship meets
NASA-like technology; where feel, fit, and finish come together to create a rod far more lively and enjoyable
than its makings would suggest, while remaining supremely strong yet sensitive. That St Croix Rod is
a family-owned company building rods in the good ol’ USA only strengthens our our appreciation for fishing
with the best rods on earth.
Chad LaChance Host and executive producer, Fishful Thinker TV
Joe Bucher
Wisconsin
Joe Bucher is a National Freshwater-Fish Hall Of Fame Legendary Angler, book author, magazine writer, fishing tackle designer and host of the popular TV series Fishing With Joe Bucher which will be celebrating its 30th season on-the-air in 2018. His relationship with St. Croix Rods spans over two decades and includes input on industry trends, rod designs and extensive field testing.
While Joe is most well known today as a musky guru, he was originally known as teenage bass fishing wiz in the 1960s, and eventually became one of the most sought after multi-species fishing guides in the 1970s, 80s, and 90s equally adept at catching walleyes, bass, lake trout, panfish, pike and muskies.
Jarrett Edwards
Ontario
Since the beginning of my career, 19 years ago, there has only been one fishing rod that I have trusted to
get the job done. St. Croix is that rod! Simply put, the amount of time that goes into R&D to create
the best rods on earth is mind boggling. If it can be caught on a rod and reel in my world then you can
bet your money that St. Croix has a rod for that! What an blessing it is to represent the very best in
fishing rods and people.
Jarrett Edwards Host "Jarrett Edwards Outdoors TV"
Karl Kalonka
Canada
In my line of work, I have to depend on my equipment as a mechanic relies on his tools, there is no room
for compromise, excuses or failure. Fishing is not my hobby. Fishing is not my pastime. Fishing is my
livelihood. Fishing is my career. Fishing is my life period. I have to catch fish. I have to maximize
every strike. I have to feel every bite...fishing with St.Croix Rods, I know the job will be done right,
the first time. Take it from me, the Xtreme Angler, these truly are the Best Rods on Earth"!
Karl Kalonka - Executive Producer & Host Xtreme Bass Angler TV
Tony Roach
Moose Lake, MN
Pro Staff Member Since: 2017
Fishing Since: Professional since 2005
Fishing Type: Walleye, Smallmouth bass, Ice
Primary Species Fished: Multi-species
Favorite Fishing Technique: Power fishing
Favorite St. Croix Rod: 6’8” Avid Spinning X-Fast
Tony Roach is a well-respected fishing guide, tournament angler, and outdoor communicator, spending close to 300 days on the open water and ice annually. He operates Roach’s Guide Service on Mille Lacs Lake and has become known as the hardest working, most successful guide on the big lake. Tony’s friendly grin and relaxed personality make him approachable during tradeshow appearances, seminars, and out on the lake. He enjoys teaching everything from fishing basics to subtle adjustments that catch more fish. Tony has been involved in the development of many new fishing products, hard water and soft. Tony’s knowledge of the hottest fisheries and angling techniques are featured in regional and national print and broadcast, including In-Fisherman, Angling Buzz, Midwest Outdoors, Game and Fish, Great Lakes Angler and many more. Tony also distributes video fishing information via YouTube and his own websites
www.roachsguideservice.comwww.tonyroachoutdoors.com
Capt. Larry Jones
Buffalo, NY
Pro Staff Member Since: 1994
Fishing Since: 1961
Fishing Type: Musky, Amazon
Primary Species Fished: Muskies
Favorite Fishing Technique: Leadcore controlled
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Legend Tournament Musky Big Dawg
I have fished many Tournaments over the years,including PWT & PMTT.Have been a Seminar_Speaker throught out the Northeast for over 40 years.IGFA World Record Guide_with Clients with many IGFA World Records of freshwater Guyana Rainforest Fish.Inbolved with NY State Musky Stocking Program for many years..Presently I'm the President of Eastern Lake Erie Charter Boat Association, on Erie County Fishery Advisory Board.I have been guidining for Muskies since 1993 on Niagara River ,Buffalo Harbor and Chautauqua Lake. Many Muskies over 50" to 55" a few over 50 lbs.My favoite time is guiding kids!
www.guyanafishing.comJosh Peacock
Canada
Pro Staff Member Since: 2003
Fishing Since: 1987
Fishing Type: Freshwater, Ice
Primary Species Fished: Bass, Walleye, Crappie
Favorite Fishing Technique: Flipping, Pitching, Frogging, Topwater, Jerbaits
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Legend Xtreme Casting (XC76MHMF)
Josh graduated from Lake Superior State University, taking a Bachelor of Science degree in Fisheries Management
and a diploma in Fish & Wildlife Management with him. Something else Josh took are prominent listings
in tournaments boasting numerous Top 5 and Top 10 finishes. Highlights include: 2nd Place and Big Bass
honours at Falcon Lake, MB in 2014. 4th, 6th, and 9th Place finishes at the Bronzeback Classic. 2nd,
5th, and 8th Place Finishes and a Big Bass Award at Bassin’ for Bucks. Two Big Bass Awards and making
the nationally televised 2011 Shaw Kenora Bass International Boat parade as one of the top ten. 2nd Overall
and Three Big Bass Awards at the Whitefish Bay Falls Bass Classic. Josh has flexed his creative writing
muscles contributing to Fin + Bone Magazine, Hooked Magazine, and the Fishing Headquarters Online Magazine. The
Fishing along with all of the above provides an understanding to Josh's Facebook profile in the "Religion"
category: "Mother Nature, The Fish Gods and St. Croix Fishing Rods." Amen.
Josh can be seen annually on episodes of Extreme Angler TV with Karl Kalonka, and was recently featured
in the You Tube Series “Monsters of Minnesota” with TylersReel Fishing.
Greg Wilczynski
Pleasant Prairie, WI
Pro Staff Member Since: 2005
Fishing Since: 1961
Fishing Type: Fly, Freshwater, Ice
Primary Species Fished: Salmon, Trout, Carp, Northern pike, Panfish
Favorite Fishing Technique: Ice, Fly
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Legend Ice
Glenn Flowers
Pensacola, FL
Pro Staff Member Since: 2017
Fishing Since: Professionally since 2005
Fishing Type: Catfish
Primary Species Fished: Flatheads
Favorite Fishing Technique: Night fishing
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Mojo Cat Rod
Capt. Glenn Flowers, is a licensed and insured USCG Captain who has earned a reputation as one of the nation’s leading Flathead experts. He runs Glenn Flowers Trophy Catfishing Guide Service with over a decade of professional catfishing experience. He runs one of the largest catfish organizations in the world, often reaching over 2 million anglers a week through his networks of websites and social media pages. He’s the owner of Flathead Catfish Hunters, ( www.flatheads.us) Americans largest Flathead organization and is the founder and President of C.A.T.S. ( Cathunters Association Of The South) A catfish club that’s sweeping the south like a wild fire. He’s been called a social media guru, his fan pages are by far the largest reaching in the catfish empire. Touching the lives of anglers on a global scale, nothing escapes his reach; from Florida to China his social Media enterprise is worldwide. He’s been featured in countless magazines, TV shows, and radio programs. He runs his guide service in the northern panhandle of Florida for catfish specifically trophy flathead and large quantities of them. On some trips anglers have landed over 400 pounds of flatheads in a single night, earning him a reputation as one of the top flathead guides to fish with.
www.catsclub.usDennis Berhorst
Holts Summit, MO
Pro Staff Member Since: 2008
Fishing Since: 1985
Fishing Type: Bass, Crappie
Primary Species Fished: Largemouth bass
Favorite Fishing Technique: Flipping, Deep structure
Favorite St. Croix Rod: 74MHFLX
6 time all American qualifier, 2 time reginal winner, Over a half a million dollars in winnings. 4 time angler of the year in BFL circuit. Numerous top ten in an array of tournaments. Lews angler of the year in 2016.
Chris Godino
Falmouth, MA
Pro Staff Member Since: 2000
Fishing Since: 1970
Fishing Type: Saltwater
Primary Species Fished: Inshore stripped bass, Bluefish, Bonito, False albacore
Favorite Fishing Technique: Inshore light tackle spinning, Offshore bait and switch trolling
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Legend extreme inshore spinning medium heavy
During the past 2 Decades Captain Chris has competed in numerous inshore and offshore fishing tournaments with many top finishes. You can usually find Chris operating one of the many sport fishing yachts he is entrusted to. Having been instrumental in creating and participating in many youth tournaments and events over the years has brought many young anglers into the future of the sport.
Captain Godino’s passion for fishing and equipment technology has always been ahead of the competition. He prides himself in outfitting both in shore and offshore sport fish vessels. He has been an invaluable asset to many tournament winning teams. His entrepreneurial background in precision machining held him to close tolerance measurements translating into only using the finest precision rods in the world.
www.eastcoastcaptains.comBobby McGraw
New Brighton, MN
Pro Staff Member Since: 2000
Fishing Since: 1990
Fishing Type: Fly
Primary Species Fished: Panfish, Small mouth bass, Northern, Muskie, Steelhead, Carp, Anything that will take a fly
Favorite Fishing Technique: LONG distance casts with BIG flies for BIG smallmouth
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Legend Elite Fly ESW906.4 , ESW907.4, ESW908.4
Working with his grandfather, Bobby started helping at sport and fly shows when he was but nine years of age. He wisely built on those experiences and now does fly casting demonstrations for sport shows, The Fly Fishing Federation and Trout Unlimited. Bobby also gives private and group lessons. In addition, he has guided for trout on GWN Flint Trail and steelhead in the Great Lakes. Furthermore, he builds rods, ties flies, and studied art in college. Seems to us this 'art thing' has spilled over into everything Bobby does.
Bob Nasby
Saint Paul, MN
Pro Staff Member Since: 1989
Fishing Since: 1944
Fishing Type: Fly
Primary Species Fished: Steelhead, Smallmouth bass, Northern, Muskie, Walleye
Favorite Fishing Technique: Spey technology with both single and couble handed fly rods
Favorite St. Croix Rod: I1107.4 & I1108.4 Imperial Switch Rods, Legend Elite Saltwater Fly Rods in 6wt - 10wt
Dennis Anderson, respected Outdoors columnist for the Minneapolis-St. Paul StarTribune, wrote the following: "Bob Nasby is one of the nation's best and most experienced fly anglers - particularly for big fish. Additionally, he is an innovative and imaginative fly tier, and a valuable asset to Minnesota and its long tradition of angling excellence. Perhaps most important, Bob is a fly-casting instructor who possesses a skill common to all gifted teachers: He makes people better. He understands the mechanics of fly casting, both for distance and accuracy, and can convey them to students, ensuring they incorporate them in their casts. As a friend and fisherman, Bob is, simply, the best." Bob "Nas" Nasby is worthy of those remarks because he has been a professional rod builder for 41 years and counting. He is a frequent speaker at sports shows, fishing and conservation clubs as well as a guest on ESPN's Fly Fish America. He has also been featured on television and talk radio, plus numerous publications: Outdoor Life, Fly Fishing the North Country, various Boundary Waters publications and many more. Hs pioneered fly fishing on the Great Lakes, guided in the Florida Keys and teaches flycasting (including spey techniques) for all skill levels. "Nas" is fussy about what rod is in his hand, not about what he is fishing. He has been known to go after tarpon, bonefish, shark, barracuda, steelhead, Great Lakes brown trout, lake trout, Great Lakes carp, smallmouth bass, musky and anything else that will eat a fly. A fly fishing guide for both fresh and saltwater, his favorite waters are equally varied: Florida Keys, Gulf of Mexico, Great Lakes and their tributaries, boundary waters of Minnesota St. Croix River. With his grandfather in the Freshwater Hall of Fame it clearly runs in the family.
Alberto Knie
FL
Pro Staff Member Since: 2010
Fishing Since: 1977
Fishing Type: Freshwater, Saltwater
Primary Species Fished: Striped bass, Bull red drum, Snook, Tarpon
Favorite Fishing Technique: Surfcasting, Landbase, Boat, Tactical hunting
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Too many to mention because I target multiple species on various methods (Surfcasting / Landbase / Boat / Fly Fresh and Saltwater – Inshore to Offshore)
Founder / President - Tactical Anglers, Inc. / Outdoor Photographer / Writer / Publish - Written Regional and National on Trophy fishing articles for various publications and books. Saltwater Sportsman National Seminar Tour faculty, NE Coast: Popular Trophy Fishing Seminar Speaker, Consultant & Field Tester for various high profile manufacturers / Featured on ESPN, WFN, SportsNetwork. / IGFA - World Record holder (Line Class - Striped Bass), Creator of Alberto knot, Travelled various fishing destination : countries – Canada, Brazil, Panama, Costa Rica, Honduras, Nicaragua, Mazatlan & Cabo San Lucas Mexico. Conservation Affiliation and Member: Recreational Fishing Alliance / IGFA / New York Sportfishing Federation .
Bob Jacklin
West Yellowstone, MT
Pro Staff Member Since: 1995
Fishing Since: 1955
Fishing Type: Fly
Primary Species Fished: Trout
Favorite Fishing Technique: Down stream fishing with the dry fly
Favorite St. Croix Rod: E586.4
I have been a professional fly fishing guide and fly casting in instructor since 1969. I have spent almost ten years with the Fenwick Fly fishing schools and on the Fenwick pro staff in the 1970’s In the 1980’s and 90’s_with the Sage Company on the prostaff and now I am very much enjoying working on the St. Croix Pro staff and working with Mr. Rich Belanger on fly rod’s and promoting the St. Croix Rod’s.
www.jacklinsflyshop.comTerry Tuma
Montgomery, MN
Pro Staff Member Since: 2007
Fishing Since: Age 5
Fishing Type: Ice, Open water
Primary Species Fished: Walleyes, Crappies, Sunfish
Favorite Fishing Technique: Jigging
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Legend Black, Mojo
National Freshwater Hall of Fame inductee
Minnesota Hall of Fame inductee
GS Media Events Award - Making ice fishing today through pioneering efforts.
Ted Takasaki
Sioux Falls, SD
Pro Staff Member Since: 2006
Fishing Since: 1999
Fishing Type: Walleye, Ice
Primary Species Fished: Walleye, Muskie
Favorite Fishing Technique: Jigging
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Legend Xtreme LXS610MXF
A Fishing Hall of Fame Legendary Angler, Ted is one of the top competitors on the National Walleye Tour. Ted won the prestigious Professional Walleye Trail (PWT) Classic Championship in 1998 and the 1995 PWT Top Gun Angler Award. In 2002, he smashed the all time, one day PWT tournament record with limit of 5 walleyes that weighed 53.2 pounds!
From 1999 to 2008, Ted was the President of Lindy Fishing Tackle, one of the nation’s largest freshwater fishing tackle manufacturers. During that time, the company doubled revenue and quadrupled profit under his leadership.
He was also a part of the Master’s Walleye Circuit (MWC) Team of the Year in 1991. His credentials include qualifying for the MWC Championship 5 times, the PWT Classic 11 times, and have made it to FLW Walleye Tour Classic 7 times, with several top tens to his credit.
In addition, Ted was a part of the team that won the coveted 1993 Mercury National Tournament held on Lake Winnebago, Wisconsin.
He has been featured in many national outdoor magazines, has conducted hundreds of walleye seminars across the Midwest, hosted numerous TV shows, and is considered one of America’s leading walleye and multi-species experts.
Stephen Browning
Hot Springs, AR
Pro Staff Member Since: 2000
Fishing Since: 1995
Fishing Type: Tournament Bass
Primary Species Fished: Bass
Favorite Fishing Technique: Chatterbaiting in the grass
Favorite St. Croix Rod: LBC 710HM
10 time Bassmaster Classic qualifier
3 time Bassmaster Champion
1996 RedMan/BFL Champion
20 year fulltime bass touring professional.
Stan Vanderburg
Simi Valley, CA
Pro Staff Member Since: 2002
Fishing Since: 1978
Fishing Type: Bass, Fly
Primary Species Fished: Bass
Favorite Fishing Technique: Jig, Worm
Favorite St. Croix Rod: EC70MF Jigs 3/8 to ½, EC68MXF Texas Rig Worm
2017 Eric Elshire Memorial Cup Champion _RTF WON Tournament of Champions Winner __ 7 Wins several 2nd and 3rds and an “ Angler of the Year “ in the last 2 years with the A.B.A and WON Bass circuit’s. 7 TV shows in 2017 with Stoked On.
www.stangetnbit.comShell Caris
Toms River, NJ
Pro Staff Member Since: 2005
Fishing Since: 1993
Fishing Type: Surf
Primary Species Fished: Stripped bass
Favorite Fishing Technique: Artificials (lures, plugs, ect)
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Legend Surf 10'6" MH, 11' MH Spinning Rods
Author of
Saltwater Fisher Shore Catch Guide
Articles in
On The Water Magazine
2012: TV show for
On The Water Magazine
2017: St Croix Rod and Shell E. Carris on Youtube
2018: TV show to air on -
On The Water TV.
Scott Ashmore
Broken Arrow, OK
Pro Staff Member Since: 2014
Fishing Since: I could walk
Fishing Type: Shallow
Primary Species Fished: Bass
Favorite Fishing Technique: Frog fishing
Favorite St. Croix Rod: 7'6 MHMF Legend Tournament
2010 Bassmaster Classic 2016, FLWTour Beaver Lake Beaver Lake 2015 Major League Summit select Cup Qualifier, 2016 Major League Challenge select Cup Qualifier.
www.scottashmore.comRoss Grothe
Northfield, MN
Pro Staff Member Since: 2012
Fishing Type: Freshwater
Primary Species Fished: Walleye
Favorite Fishing Technique: Casting glide baits, Jigging
Favorite St. Croix Rod: ES 610 MXF
Back to back tournament victories
Winning team of the year in 2014 AIM events with my 8 year old son.
Perry Good
Minnetrista, MN
Pro Staff Member Since: 2008
Fishing Since: 1985
Fishing Type: Freshwater
Primary Species Fished: Smallmouth bass, Walleye
Favorite Fishing Technique: Rigging, Jigging, Trolling
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Legend Elite 6'10" MLXF
One of the top money winners in professional walleye fishing, inducted into the national freshwater fishing hall of fame in 2016. Inducted into the Minnesota fishing hall of fame in 2017.
Matt Massey
Littleton, CO
Pro Staff Member Since: 2013
Fishing Since: 1980
Fishing Type: Conventional
Primary Species Fished: Bass, Walleye
Favorite Fishing Technique: Heavy rods, Flipping to heavy cover
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Legend Xtreme 7'4" Heavy
FLW National Championship 2015, 2016, 2017
Rocky Mountain Team Series Champions 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012
Rocky Mountain Team Series 18 wins 6 top tens
Colorado State Bass Federation Champion 2009, 2013
Bass Federation Nation Championship 11th place 2009.
John Krauthoefer
Tillamook, OR
Pro Staff Member Since: 2007
Fishing Since: 1957
Fishing Type: River, Saltwater
Primary Species Fished: Salmon, Steelhead, Halibut
Favorite Fishing Technique: Trolling, Side drifting, Jigging
Favorite St. Croix Rod: All Legend, Avid and Wild River Salmon and Steelhead models
Over 70 TV shows, many magazine feature stories over my 47 years of guiding anglers here on the beautiful Oregon Coast. Guided Govenors, senators, presidentional cabinet members, and plenty of professional baseball players.
www.oregoncoastfishingguide.comJerry McCutchen
Warsaw, MO
Pro Staff Member Since: 1989
Fishing Since: 1971
Fishing Type: Bass
Primary Species Fished: Bass, Crappie, Walleye
Favorite Fishing Technique: Jigging
Favorite St. Croix Rod: EC70MHF Legend Elite 7'0"
Winner of 21 bass boats and a cabin on Truman Lake.
Beau Browning
Hot Springs, AR
Pro Staff Member Since: 2016
Fishing Since: 2007
Fishing Type: Finesse
Primary Species Fished: Largemouth bass
Favorite Fishing Technique: Drop shotting
Favorite St. Croix Rod: BXS610MLXT
Won the 2016 Bassmaster Junior National Championship
Blake Shelby
Monroe, LA
Pro Staff Member Since: 2008
Fishing Since: 1975
Fishing Type: Tournament
Primary Species Fished: Largemouth bass
Favorite Fishing Technique: Flipping, Frog
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Legend Tournament
Numerous wins at the local, state and regional levels, Fisher’s Of Men National Champion, top 10 finishes in ABA Weekend Series and BFL but the true highlight of my fishing career is working with young people to develop knowledgeable new anglers and promoting the sport.
Scott Rook
Little Rock, AR
Pro Staff Member Since: 2000
Fishing Since: 1967
Fishing Type: Tournament Bass
Primary Species Fished: Bass, Crappie
Favorite Fishing Technique: Pitching, Flipping
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Legend Elite 74H
Bassmaster Elite Series Pro, Nine Time Bassmaster Classic Qualifier, Bassmaster Elite Series winner, fished Bassmaster Tournaments for 19 years.
Rick Miller
Umatilla, FL
Pro Staff Member Since: 2001
Fishing Since: 1961
Fishing Type: River
Primary Species Fished: Bass, Walleye
Favorite Fishing Technique: Flipping, Punching
Favorite St. Croix Rod: LXC74HF
8 time BFL All-American qualifier.
2000 Bfl regional _Champion.
Capt Jim Freda
Manasquan Inlet, NJ
Pro Staff Member Since: 1993
Fishing Since: 1975
Fishing Type: Saltwater
Primary Species Fished: Blue/Yellowfin tuna, Stipped bass, False Albacore
Favorite Fishing Technique: Casting topwater, Jigging bluefin tuna
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Mojo Jig-MJJC58HMF 5'8"
Recognized as one of the top, New Jersey, saltwater fishing, U.S.C.G.-licensed captains, Jim has been working his part of the world for more than thirty-five years. Jim is also highly respected as an author, seminar speaker, and photographer as well. Always willing to share information, Capt. Jim has authored "Fishing the New Jersey Coast," a compilation of what he has learned that is a best-seller and has earned the "New Jersey Center for the Book Award" as one of the most notable New Jersey books. He has also co-authored "Saltwater Fishing: A Tactical Approach," with his Shore Catch partners. As a seminar speaker Jim has been featured as one of the celebrities on the Saltwater Sportsman National Seminar Series, one of the “Stars of the Show” at the Fly Fishing Show, and The Saltwater Expo. An accomplished writer, Jim has had featured articles in Saltwater Sportsman, Fly Fisherman, Eastern Fly Fishing, Big Game Journal, On The Water Magazine, and the Fisherman magazine. Jim also writes a weekly fishing column for New Jersey newspapers The Bergen Record and the Coast Star. Jim’s favorite fish to target is bluefin tuna getting them up on top by casting to them jigging them. His loves being on the water with his 17 year old son Tommy who is his Shore Catch mate.
www.shorecatch.comJesse Wiggins
Cullman, AL
Pro Staff Member Since: 2017
Fishing Since: 1989
Fishing Type: Bass
Primary Species Fished: Largemouth, Smallmouth, Spotted bass
Favorite Fishing Technique: However I caught the last one
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Legend Elite
3 BASSMASTER SOUTHERN OPEN WINS.
FISHING THE BASSMASTER ELITE SERIES.
James Niggemeyer
Van, TX
Pro Staff Member Since: 2009
Fishing Since: Pro since 2006
Fishing Type: Casting, Pitching
Primary Species Fished: Bass
Favorite Fishing Technique: Flipping
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Legend Xtreme LXC711HMF
3 time-Bassmaster Classic Qualifier, 2-time B.A.S.S. OPEN tournament winner, 2-time B.A.S.S. OPEN Angler of the Year, B.A.S.S. Weekend Series Regional Winnger, FLW BFL American Qualifier, FLW BFL Regional winner.
www.jamesniggemeyer.comDan Durbin
Richfield, WI
Pro Staff Member Since: 2005
Fishing Since: 1978
Fishing Type: Open water
Primary Species Fished: Bass
Favorite Fishing Technique: Wacky rigging
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Legend Elite 7 M
Several Top finishes in WABTA STATE Classic, I started a bass tournament at Northbrook Church that raises money for mission work. Syndicated Outdoors Column that helps promote fishing and hunting and conservation group. One of the owners of the Wisconsin Fishing Expo that allows non-profit fishing clubs in at no charge to promotes fishing. Part of the proceeds of the expo fund fishing projects around Wisconsin. Over $10,000 donated per year.
Avery Revere
Barnstable, MA
Pro Staff Member Since: 2003
Fishing Since: 1965
Fishing Type: Saltwater, Inshore, Sight Fishing
Primary Species Fished: Stripped bass
Favorite Fishing Technique: Fly, Light Tackle
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Fly Rods: Bank Robber, Legend Elite Spinning Rods: Avid Inshore and who doesn’t love the good ol’ TideMaster
Published chapter on Cape Cod Bay in 50 Best Places | Fly Fishing the Northeast
President of Non-Profit “Friends of Barnstable Harbor”
Each passing season, not only do I enjoy more and more my clients, but I see that my client base overall
has become not only more experienced fly fishermen, but also, they seem to be more conscientious about
the well-being of the harbor environment and the striped bass fishery.
Brian 'Bro' Broshadl
Max, MN
Pro Staff Member Since: 1997
Fishing Since: 1970
Fishing Type: Open Water, Ice
Primary Species Fished: Jig, Minnow
Favorite Fishing Technique: Jig trolling
Favorite St. Croix Rod: 6’ 3 St. Croix Legend Elite Med.
Namesake Products:
Designed The Bro Bug ice fishing tackle for Northland Fishing Tackle in 1997.
In 1999 helped design Bro Bug Collection lead and plastics for Northland Fishing Tackle.
2009 helped design The Bro reel by Frabill. ( spinning reel )
In 2013 helped design the Bro Series 371 Straightline ( center pin reel for icefishing) In 2014 /2015
helped design Bro Hub Pop-Up style Ice fishing house by Frabill.
In 2016-Present helped design Bro Side Step ( flip style) Ice fishing house by Frabill.
( Fishing techniques) 1998 Bro Dropper debut in In-Fisherman Magazine Micro drop line for ice fishing.
Slip Dragging Technique 1999 Fishing rig design to carry jigs and rigs over rocks & brush as well as
suspended walleyes.
Tournaments:
FLW/NWT/MWC: 2011-Present
12 top 10’s
12 top 20’s
Angler of the Year FLW League MN
Media:
1994-Present: Fishing Radio guest
TV Show guest,
In fisherman Lindners Angling Edge,WCCO,
Ice Fishing Magazine, Fish & Game, Outdoor News,
Outdoor weekly, Out of Michigan, Field & Stream, Outdoor Life.
And many other publications for over 20 yrs.
Joel Nelson
Cannon Falls, MN
Pro Staff Member Since: 2015
Fishing Since: 1985
Fishing Type: Freshwater
Primary Species Fished: Walleye, Panfish
Favorite Fishing Technique: Jig trolling
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Legend Extreme 6’10” ML X-Fast
Joel is a well-known TV/Media personality in the fishing and hunting industry. A self-admitted “fish nerd,” Nelson holds advanced degrees in the natural sciences, including fisheries and digital mapping, allowing him opportunities to work both personally and professionally in the outdoors industry. Annually, he participates in numerous TV, Radio, speaking, and writing engagements, highlighting relevant stories on his website - Joel Nelson Outdoors – www.joelnelsonoutdoors. Joel works with some of the largest brands in ice-fishing, open-water, and hunting; all while focusing on genuine experiences and the how-to’s he shares on a variety of media-fronts. In addition to the media he creates, Joel is the Pro-staff and Social Media Director for Otter Outdoors.
www.joelnelsonoutdoors.comLee Young
Green Bay, WI
Pro Staff Member Since: 2009
Fishing Since: 1970
Fishing Type: Freshwater
Primary Species Fished: Carp
Favorite Fishing Technique: Finesse Carp Fishing Techniques (Zig, Float, Surface, and Fly Fishing methods)
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Avid Carp Series ACS120MHMF2, the best all-round rod for US Carp Fishing!
I am proud and honored to have been asked by the United States Angling Confederation (USAC), to Captain the US Team at 5 World Fishing Championships (Italy 2011, Italy 2014, Spain 2015, France 2016, and Hungary 2017). However, my professional highlight has been training a New Captain to take over from me in Hungary; the biggest test of a Leader is to train, mentor, and inspire New Leaders. I’m also very thankful and proud to have been asked by St. Croix to help in the design of the Avid Carp Series of Rods.
newfishing.blogspot.comTommy Kemos
Oconomowoc, WI
Pro Staff Member Since: 2003
Fishing Since: 1978
Fishing Type: Tournament Angling
Primary Species Fished: Walleye
Favorite Fishing Technique: All jigging techniques
Favorite St. Croix Rod: 6’10”MXF Legend Elite
2014 National Walleye Tour Angler of the Year
2006 Professional Walleye Trail Champion
John Balla
Lake Barrington, IL
Pro Staff Member Since: 2007
Fishing Since: Age 3
Fishing Type: Freshwater
Primary Species Fished: Walleye
Favorite Fishing Technique: Pulling 3-way rigs on rivers, casting crankbaits, spinners in weeds.
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Legend Elite ES610MLXF
Graduate of Northwestern University and a corn Options Trader in Chicago. Fished first Masters Walleye Circuit (MWC) team event in 1993, winning Central Division Team of the Year title in 2008. FLW Outdoors 2009 Walleye League Angler of the Year- Heartland Division. Fished RCL Walleye, PWT, and National Walleye Tour. Qualified for Eight Championships. Appeared on Midwest Outdoors Television, ESPN Outdoors, NWT Television on NBC Sports.
Jimmy Bell
Ham Lake, MN
Pro Staff Member Since: 2012
Fishing Since: Diapers
Fishing Type: Lake, River
Primary Species Fished: Any that fight or bite
Favorite Fishing Technique: Jigging, Bass, Walleye
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Avid X Spinning 6’8” Medium Extra Fast - AXS68MXF
Jimmy Bell is a Multi-Species family based fisherman, with vast experience in the promotional field, as well as the professional angler arena. He has National Angler of the Year and Professional Rookie titles, along with three Tournament wins at the National level. With over 30 years in the fishing industry Jimmy has seen it all and loves to share his experiences with those around him. As president of the National Professional Anglers Association his passion is helping others succeed as Professional Anglers, growing Student Angling across the country, educating others on new techniques, and advancing the sport that we all love.
Gene Quigley
Manasquan, NJ
Pro Staff Member Since: 1996
Fishing Since: 1975
Fishing Type: Striped Bass, Tuna, Mahi
Primary Species Fished: Bass
Favorite Fishing Technique: Topwater casting, Fly fishing, Jigging
Favorite St. Croix Rod: VIS76HF Avid Inshore, ESW9012.4.FG Legend Elite Saltwater Fly
Capt. Gene is the co-owner of Shore Catch Guide Service, one of the Northeast’s largest fly and light tackle guide service. A native of the New Jersey shore, Gene specializes in fishing for Bluefin Tuna and Trophy Striped Bass. Equally at home from the boat or in the surf, Capt. Gene is passionate about teaching people how to fish and has put hundreds of anglers on their first trophy Striped Bass and Bluefin; and is one of a handful of anglers worldwide who have consistently landed Bluefin tuna over 100 lbs. on fly tackle.
In 2013 Capt. Gene was voted one of the Top 50 Charter Captains by Saltwater Sportsman Magazine and in 2010 was voted as one of the Top 100 Fishing Guides in North America by Field & Stream Magazine.
In addition to guiding, Gene is also a noted outdoor writer, photographer, and seminar speaker. He contributes regularly to Saltwater Sportsman, Sport Fishing, Fly Fisherman, The Fisherman and On the Water Magazine.
Gary Clouse
Winchester, TN
Pro Staff Member Since: 1992-1998 2006-present
Fishing Since: 1975
Fishing Type: Bass
Primary Species Fished: Bass
Favorite Fishing Technique: Flipping
Favorite St. Croix Rod: 7' Legend Elite
2012 PAA Angler of the Year , 10 top 20’s in Bassmaster Opens, Major League Fishing Angler CEO and President of Phoenix Boats
Steve Genson
Springbrook, WI
Pro Staff Member Since: 2011
Fishing Since: 1982
Fishing Type: All types, Guiding, Tournament
Primary Species Fished: Muskie
Favorite Fishing Technique: Casting
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Legend Tournament
Numerous Top 10 finishes in the PMTT, 2011 1st place Cave Run PMTT, 2012 World Muskie Tour Champion, 2014 1st Place Mille Lacs PMTT, numerous TV and radio appearances, Guiding for 17 years
Chris Gilman
Chisago City, MN
Pro Staff Member Since: 2012
Fishing Since: 3 years old
Fishing Type: Freshwater
Primary Species Fished: Walleye
Favorite Fishing Technique: Casting Crankbaits.
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Legend Extreme 6’10” Medium Light extra fast tip LXS610MLXF
To date, Chris has racked up 6 victories and 47 top 10 finishes in major Walleye tournaments. He won an FLW Walleye Championship and a National Walleye trail champion along with two angler of the year titles.
Steve Heiting
Minocqua, WI
Pro Staff Member Since: 1988
Fishing Since: 1965
Fishing Type: Freshwater
Primary Species Fished: Muskies
Favorite Fishing Technique: Whatever makes them bite.
Favorite St. Croix Rod: Legend Elite 9-0 Musky (LEM90HF)
Steve is managing editor of Musky Hunter magazine, a position he has held since 1994. He has written, edited, or contributed to 24 books about musky fishing, has produced five musky fishing DVDs, and is a regular guest on “The Musky Hunter” TV show. A popular seminar speaker, he serves each year as the master of ceremonies of the National Championship Musky Open, the largest musky tournament in the world.
www.steveheiting.comTommy Skarlis
Waukon, IA
Pro Staff Member Since: 2008
Fishing Since: 3 years old - 1969
Fishing Type: Freshwater
Primary Species Fished: Walleye and crappie
Favorite Fishing Technique: Jigging
Favorite St. Croix Rod: LXS70MF, Legend Xtreme 7’0” Medium
Professional highlights
- 2017 World Walleye Champions - Masters Walleye Circuit
- 2017 Winner – WAT Mississippi River – Genoa, WI
- 2015 Walleye Anglers Trail (WAT) Team of the Year
- 2015 Winner – WAT Mississippi River – Genoa, WI
- 2014 Winner – AIM WWS Leech Lake Event – Walker, MN
- 2014 Winner – MWC Berkley Artificial Only Event – Hastings, MN
- 2013 Crappie Masters Champion
- 2012 Winner - FLW Mississippi River – Red Wing, MN
- 2011 Outdoor Life’s Top Ten Anglers on the Planet
- 2010 Full Throttle Team of the year – Big Water Division
- 2010 Winner and Tournament Weight Total Record– Full Throttle Outdoors – Red Wing Event – 5 fish weighing 41.63 pounds
- 2009 Winner - AIM Pro Walleye Series – Saginaw Bay, Michigan
- 2008 FLW Walleye Tour Champion – Bismarck, North Dakota
- 2007 Walleyes First Ironman Champion
- 2004 and 2005 Ranger Cup Champion
- 2004 Angler of the Year - In-Fisherman Professional Walleye Trail
- 2004 Winner – PWT Winnebago Chain – Winneconne, Wisconsin
- 2003 Winner - PWT Lake Erie – Dunkirk, New York
- 2002 Winner - PWT Lake Erie – Port Clinton, Ohio
- *World Record Holder - Largest Professional Walleye Tournament Total Weight. 3-Day Total of 15 walleyes weighing 138.28 lbs – a 9.22 lb average
- 2001 Winner - PWT Detroit River – Trenton, Michigan
- 1997 Masters Walleye Circuit Team of the Year
- 1996 Masters Walleye Circuit Big Stone Champion
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