Ambassadors
Mariner Sails Brand Ambassadors |
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Tim BowersTim Bowers has been a fisherman his whole life, but didn't take up the sport of kayak fishing until 2013. Growing up in deep East Texas there weren't a lot of options when it came to hobbies, so going fishing on the weekends with his family came naturally. After graduating high school, he decided to move to Dallas to pursue a career in Graphic Design. As time passed in his career in the industry, fishing became less of a priority. IG - https://www.instagram.com/thereelgills/ X - https://twitter.com/ReelGills YT - https://www.youtube.com/thereelgills
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Cody CarpenterCody Carpenter humbly grew up in East Texas fishing the banks of the Sabine River for catfish and gar. He is a 2004 graduate of Texas Christian University with degrees in Sports Medicine and Education. Cody began kayak fishing in 2011 and bought his first kayak from Mariner Sails and was introduced into the DFW kayak fishing community through the Mariner Sails Working Mans Tournaments. He spends his time off the water educating high school students about kayak fishing and has worked within his community to protect local waters and fishing habitats. Cody is a proud pro staff member of the Yak Attack, Bonafide Kayaks, and Werner Paddles teams. He is a proud husband and father that enjoys introducing his children to the world of kayaking and fishing. "I feel blessed to live in an area that has a company like Mariner Sails that fully supports kayak fishing and has allowed me to grow as an angler and a paddler and has provided platforms to grow lifelong friendships."
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Jean CarrionJean Carrion is an avid kayak fisherman and co-creator of the Youtube channel, The Reel Gills. Having not fished very often growing up, his deep interest in fishing came to be in 2013. During the first fishing adventure with his co-worker, Tim Bowers, they saw kayakers with fishing poles and knew what the future entailed. 2015 was their start as The Reel Gills, a duo set out to show the excitement of kayak fishing and demonstrate a few tip and tricks to help upcoming kayak anglers. He is an official Mariner Sails videographer and Captain of the “Mariner Sails Air Force”. “Mariner Sails is the reason why I feel comfortable and ready on the water and the catalyst in making this a great kayaking community”. As a graduate of Graphic Design, photographer, videographer, businessman and many other things, Jean spends time pursuing all of his passions every day. You can find Jean out on the water throwing big swimbaits, hoping to catch the awesome action on film for the world to see. IG - https://www.instagram.com/thereelgills/ X - https://twitter.com/ReelGills YT - https://www.youtube.com/thereelgills
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Mat FrentressMat Frentress has been fishing since he was very young. He has competed in numerous bass fishing tournaments all over Texas. In late 2015 he bought his first kayak to fish his first kayak tournament in 2016 on Lake Palestine and finished 3rd Place. Since that day he has been hooked. He truly enjoys the outdoors and anytime there is a little competition mixed in he will be right there to join. Mat is a member of the Mariner Sails Ambassador team and will be competing in local and national kayak trails in 2023. IG: https://www.instagram.com/mat_frentress/
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Guillermo GonzalezBeing Puerto Rican with an upbringing in South Florida, the water has always been a big part of Guillermo’s life. Today, living in north Texas, has not changed that. Guillermo began kayak fishing in middle school, where he became obsessed with chasing snook and tarpon in the South Florida backcountry. Upon graduating high school, Guillermo moved to Fort Worth to attend Texas Christian University. Leaving the saltwater was tough, but with the prospect of becoming a better bass angler, Texas did not seem so bad. In 2013, Guillermo decided to enter his first kayak bass fishing tournament, which to his complete surprise, he wound up winning. He has not looked back and continues to stay heavily involved in the local and national scene. Guillermo still resides in Fort Worth, where he works as a farm and ranch real estate agent. FB: https://www.facebook.com/guillermo.gonzalez.7106 IG: https://www.instagram.com/guillermo_gonzalez_outdoors/
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Weslie GrayAn avid angler and outdoor enthusiast who enjoys sharing her passion for the outdoors with anyone willing to tag along. As a native Texan, Weslie grew up fishing the lakes and rivers in the piney woods of East Texas, where she developed a love and appreciation for the sport of bass fishing. Now, you can find her traveling all over the U.S., fishing in kayak bass tournaments at the national level. She is well respected in the fishing community, not only for being a fierce competitor but also for her positive mental attitude and quick-witted sense of humor. Beyond tournaments, Weslie enjoys sharing her love for fishing with her son, Alex, who also competes in fishing tournaments. FB: https://www.facebook.com/wesliegrayfishing IG: https://www.instagram.com/wesliegrayfishing/ TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@weslie.gray YT: https://youtube.com/@wesliegrayfishing?si=ggLD8vVu49wXcCdk |
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Lloyd Hairston
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Larry Hill
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Bryan Howell
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Jeff Isham
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Chris LewisA Crowley, Louisiana native, and 22-year NASA veteran admits to being a technology and gadgets junkie—a proclivity I've combined with a lifelong love of the outdoors. Often sharing those passions with my wife, two kids and with others through photography, videography, and podcasts. Since the 1990s, I have been an active participant in fishing and boating trade shows and expositions. Although we usually pack away our kayaks and boats in the late fall and winter months, and opt for camping and hiking during that time of year. My first venture into kayaking began in 2001 with the purchase of what I've dubbed “the polyethylene mistake”—a tandem kayak that didn't last long. When I became serious about combining kayaking and fishing, I upgraded to a Wilderness Systems Kayak. Since that time I’ve collected dozens of kayaks, many makes and models that all serve their own purposes. I kayak fish mainly inshore saltwater marshes and bays; however, you can also find me fishing (especially fly fishing) rivers and streams as well. I've worked with many top-tier companies in my past. Once as a product tester and designer for Mann's Baits, for whom I had helped develop new products for the Gulf Coast Inshore Market. After 6 years with Mann's, I was invited to join the Pure Fishing Select Angler Team and was later added to their Profession Ambassador Team. I also promote a couple local Texas companies—Redtail Republic and Reel Sportswear—as a professional ambassador. In the last five years, I have enjoyed competitive fishing and often end up at or near the top of the standings, which may be an attribute to a stubborn, never-quit attitude. I work hard and seriously at my craft. Success for some competitors is built on study, research and records; however, I tend to rely on pure, physical effort and perseverance. Often literally and figuratively draining my battery to absolute zero in competition! FB: https://www.facebook.com/people/Chris-Lewis/100007548102351/ |
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Brandon MayesMy name is Brandon Mayes AKA "That Bass Fishing Dude". I'm a central Texas native dubbed the tallest kayak fisherman in the world. After being medically retired from the military in 2013, I rekindled my love of fishing which has been therapeutic to say the least. I consider myself an adventure based angler, seeking and chasing those moments on the water that take you off the beaten path. My goal is to inspire others through my love for paddlesports, community involvement, and adventuring. WWW: https://thatbassfishingdude.com/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/ThatBassFishingDude IG: https://www.instagram.com/_thatbassfishingdude_/ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@ThatBassFishingDude/videos
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Jason "The Ninja" O'BrienJason O’Brien A.K.A “The Ninja” has been kayak bass fishing for 17+ yrs. When not sharing and teaching the art of kayak bass fishing, The Ninja is competing in tournaments. With consistent top finishes and is nationally recognized for his accomplishments. He is more known for his success and love of big bass.
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Matthew ScotchI’ve been addicted to fishing ever since I can remember. My dad and grandfathers took me hunting and fishing at an early age and from that time on it’s been all I really want to do with my life. Every free weekend when I was younger you could find me on or near the water with a fishing pole in my hand. When I turned 18 I went to culinary school in Austin TX. I worked as a chef for nearly 10 years in private country clubs, fine dining restaurants, and catering companies before fishing found its way back into my life in my late 20’s. A chance meeting with a neighbor one day set the course for a wild chain of events that eventually led to me leaving the food service industry and starting a career as a kayak fishing guide. I’ve been kayak fishing for 6 years now, competed in the biggest kayak competitions, won tournaments, been on TV, and gained recognition as one of the top kayak anglers in the sport. I’m humbled to be where I’m at today and look forward to what lies around the corner. |
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Cameron SmithIn 2023, Cameron started creating digital content. He’s been an avid outdoorsman all his life, and he loves to share his kayak fishing adventures with others. Cameron’s goals are to inspire others to get outside and broaden the kayak fishing community. Cameron has formed lasting relationships with companies and well-known anglers that share his same passion for the outdoors. When he’s not on the water, Cameron enjoys watching movies with his wife Leah, and works in Financial Planning & Analysis. He also mentors graduate students at his alma mater, SMU. IG: https://www.instagram.com/realcamsmith |
Metta Waugh
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Carol WellsI can't remember a time I wasn't on the water growing up with a dad that fished. Being able and fortunate that my husband enjoys the same things I do is a plus. We passed that love on to our kids and grandkids and when we decided in 2018 to jump into the kayaking world that opened up a new adventure and I am proud owner of a Hobie PA14. -C |
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Danny WellsI can say looking back on my outdoor experiences that most can be attributed to my mom, dad and my 4 brothers. We did everything as a family and hunting and fishing were a way of life not just a sport. I don't hunt anymore but I do enjoy being around wildlife and getting out on the water brings back those times for me. In 2018 I purchased my first Hobie PA !4 and I do fish in local tournament events. It's been great meeting and making new friends in the kayak community. Looking forward to what 2024 has in store and memories that will be made. |
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Jeff White
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Rudy ZermenoI grew up catfishing as a kid and enjoyed the outdoors. I remember catching my first bass fish in 2014, it was epic, and I was hooked on bass fishing after that moment. I needed to get off the bank and picked up my first kayak in 2016 and never looked back. Learning the ways of kayak bass fishing and discovering local working man’s kayak tournaments definitely helped me grow in the sport. In 2018 I entered my first North Texas Kayak Championship tournament on Lake Fairfield and won. I continue to kayak bass fish regularly year round and would like to thank Mariner Sails for the support since day 1. |
Hobie Pro-Staff |
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Tracy DouganTracy “TwoFish” Dougan is a Hobie Fishing Team member and creator of TwoFish Outdoors. He grew up in a small town in Arkansas spending every hour possible outdoors. He cut his teeth by getting a hook wet in every pond, creek, lake, and river he could, although he did not take up serious bass fishing until 2007. He bought his first Hobie in 2014, and he started seriously tournament fishing in 2016. “I have fished bass boat tournaments since 2008. My first kayak tournament in 2015 immediately showed me that this community is different, and I want to do everything I can to grow this sport”. TwoFish still spends a few weekends a year in the woods looking for Bullwinkle, but otherwise he fishes almost every weekend. His website and Facebook page TwoFishOutdoors are where you can find how-to videos, podcasts, and Live broadcasts about the kayak fishing scene. Chances are if there is a kayak tournament in North Texas, you can find Tracy not only fishing it but also volunteering to help run it. FB: https://www.facebook.com/teamtwofish IG: @teamtwofish YT: https://www.youtube.com/@SuperJaydoogie
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Gerald SmithGrowing up surrounded by the abundant waters of the Northwest, my fascination with fishing began early on. As I journeyed across different states, my passion for angling only intensified. However, it was upon settling in Texas that I truly immersed myself in the world of fishing, particularly through the exhilarating pursuit of kayak fishing. Exploring various kayak models, I finally found my ideal match with Hobie, specifically the PA14 360, which has provided me with countless unforgettable moments along the scenic trails of Texas. The camaraderie within the kayak fishing community is unparalleled, and I've been fortunate to forge meaningful connections within the esteemed Mariner Sails family, one of the nation's premier kayak shops. Beyond the thrill of the catch, my life revolves around being a devoted father and husband. Whether it's spending quality time with my beloved daughters, indulging in the simple pleasure of smoking cigars, or passionately cheering on my favorite sports teams, my heart is always full. Guided by the personal motto of "Three The Hard Way," I approach life's challenges with unwavering determination and enthusiasm. Each day presents new opportunities for growth and adventure, and I eagerly embrace them all. Whether I'm navigating the waters or navigating through life, I do so with a spirit of resilience and a deep appreciation for the journey. FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092283986640 IG: https://www.instagram.com/three_the_hard_way/ TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@3.the.hard.way YT: https://youtube.com/@3THWOUTDOORS
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Old Town Pro-Staff |
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Jerry HamonJerry is an avid angler, specialized, if you will, in kayak and fly fishing. He is the owner/guide at River Crossing Guide Service. He is the Past President of the Texas Council of Fly Fishers International and the President of both the Mariner-Sails Kayak Fishing Club and the Waco Fly Fishing Club. He is serving his second term on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Freshwater Fisheries Advisory Committee and is the Chairman of that committee this term. Jerry is also a certified TPWD Angler Education Area Chief/Instructor and enjoys occasionally fishing kayak tournaments. Jerry is passionate about fishing and teaching others about the joy of fishing. He loves fly fishing from his kayak on Texas rivers and lakes.
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Duc TranOver the course of 10+ years in the Kayak fishing game, Tran has taken on the role of running several major kayak bass fishing trails in Texas. Some of his responsibilities include serving as the regional director for Kayak Bass Fishing (KBF) in Texas for several years, hosting an annual Lonestar Showdown, helping run the Tournament of Champions (TOC) and currently running the North Texas Kayak Championship trail. After a career as a civil engineer, Tran began working at Mariner Sails, a local kayak shop located in Dallas, Texas, that he frequently visited for years. This has granted him an even greater opportunity to bring new people into the sport and utilize his knowledge of kayaks and kayak fishing in general. |
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Jennifer WilhiteHey fellow fishing enthusiasts! I'm Jennifer Wilhite, thrilled to join this passionate angling community. I am from the Texas panhandle, now calling the DFW area home.Beyond my love for angling, I'm triumphing over cancer and have devoted two decades to local government public service. I am a Texas Parks and Wildlife Certified Angler Instructor. My favorite part is witnessing the pure joy on someone's face when they catch their first fish--a moment that often becomes a treasured lifetime memory. |
Native Watercraft Pro-Staff |
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TJ Akins
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Mike CrowI started kayaking at an early age. When I was about 14, I came across a fiberglass kayak that needed a bit of work to get it back in the water at a yard sale. I managed to get all the leaks fixed and back on the water. I was hooked! I quickly realized at the time there was no way to store fishing gear on kayaks. I quickly started to modify and rig up pole holders, anchors and the such. Fast forward to today I was asked to join a Prostaff team in 2015. I then joined Mariner Sails Ambassador program the same year. |
NuCanoe Pro-Staff |
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Charlie BradfordPro Staff at Dobyns Rods Pro Staff at Professional Kayak Anglers Field staff at Blast & Cast Men's Ministries Team Member at NuCanoe Nucanoe Ambassador at Mariner Sails Works at Arrowhook Outdoors Pro Staff at Amphibia Eyegear
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Dan Nguyen
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