Frustration often turns into positive outcomes. At least it did for Eric Bush, who used to run private sport-fishing yachts for a living. Whenever the former skipper had to replace a broken pump or outfit a new boat, he was forced to shop at several marine retail outlets to find everything he needed. There had to be a better method, he thought, so he started a single operation catering to the sportfish and center console fishing market. Sportfish Outfitters is now rapidly growing as professional crews and boat owners learn about its services.
Experience
“I’ve been involved across the marine industry as a boat captain, builder and in marine repair,” Bush says. “In the past I had a difficult time finding products geared specifically for sportfishers and center consoles, so I saw a need for this service. We’ve been in the parts and supply business now for three years, based in Jupiter, Florida. We can handle everything for these boats, except tackle. We cater to the do-it-yourself captain or owner/operators who do the work themselves so they can find products easier. From replacement parts to full outfitting, we are a one-stop shop.”
Easy Ordering
Customers can call Sportfish Outfitters for help finding parts or to place an order. Another unique aspect is text ordering. If a captain is looking for a hard-to-find replacement filter, for example, they can simply take a photo of the part and text it to Sportfish Outfitters to initiate an order. Routine maintenance items like soaps, waxes, brushes and cleaning equipment are readily available as well.
Track Invoices & Receipts
“We help captains stay organized,” Bush adds. “Through our ordering system, invoice and receipt management is easier since all the documentation is in one place. We also created a check list for new boat outfitting. It includes everything from filters, pumps, safety equipment, dock lines and fenders to get a boat completely ready for operation. If the build isn’t quite finished, we can warehouse that gear and drop-ship it to the builder so everything is there when the boat is launched.
Everything You Need, Except Tackle
“From a bottle of specialty wax to pumps, lights, bean bags, grills or a chamois, Sportfish Outfitters can source everything fishing boats need except the tackle. We’re not your typical retail store. But we are very service-oriented for the guys working in the engine rooms or waxing the tuna tower.”
2019 Concierge Marine Products Provider
Sportfish Outfitters is coming aboard as a “Concierge” Marine Products Provider for the 2019 Emerald Coast Blue Marlin Classic. The company joins an impressive list, including Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort (Title and Facility Sponsor), Wind Creek Casino & Hotel (Presenting Sponsor), Visit South Walton (Tourism Partner), Mojo Sportswear and Gulf Coast Yacht Group (Tournament Partners) and Galati Yacht Sales (Founding Sponsor), along with dozens of Emerald, Platinum, Gold and Silver businesses, products and services that make the ECBC one of the favorite big game tournaments in the world.
To learn more about its products or to create an account, please visit Sportfish Outfitters at sportfishoutfitters.com.