The last thing you want to worry about when you’re fishing is whether you’ll make it back to the dock or shore at day’s end. This holds true for professional anglers, too. Rock solid equipment is the foundation of every successful angler’s tool kit, and for obvious reasons, the outboard motor has a starring role.
Lisa Hughes is a hunter, angler and professional photographer whose shots have graced the pages of Ontario Out of Doors among other publications.
Says Lisa, “Upgrading from my fishing kayak to my first boat – a 12-foot Sylvan Super Snapper with the Suzuki DF25 – has been such a great change. The motor’s super reliable, quiet, and easy on gas, making every trip out on the waters here in North Frontenac simple and stress-free. It’s let me explore new spots and spend more time doing what I love – fishing and being outdoors.”
Quiet motors are a big win for a sport that relies on a certain amount of stealth. Making a big noisy entrance isn’t exactly what you’re looking for when it comes to your motor of choice. And with repowering as a viable option, there’s no need to replace an entire boat. Many boating and fishing enthusiasts are swapping their old outboards for the more efficient offerings from Suzuki.
Tom Hardy is a regional tournament angler who’s been competing in high-level tournaments across Ontario for more than 15 seasons, also often expanding into the U.S for championship events. His accolades include more than 10 major tournament wins, two Team-of-the-Year finishes and a Bassmaster National Championship qualification in 2024.
“In competitive fishing, confidence in your equipment is everything,” says Tom, echoing Lisa’s focus on reliability. “Repowering my boat with a Suzuki DF250 has given me the trust to venture farther, fish harder, and push the clock – knowing I’ll get back safely, every time.”
Fuel economy during longer days on the water is also an important consideration. Erik Luzak, a seasoned tournament angler with over 25 years of competitive bass fishing experience, is the reigning Canadian Open champion and has also competed at the highest levels across the U.S.. Based in the Kawartha Lakes region, Erik regularly expands his adventures to the diverse waters of Georgian Bay, Muskoka, and Lake Ontario.
“I travel all across the country competing in bass tournaments,” says Erik, “and my Suzuki outboard gives me total peace of mind. It’s incredibly reliable, fuel-efficient – which saves me money – and gets me to the hot spots fast! When every second and every dollar counts, my Suzuki delivers.”
Take it from the pros, a reliable outboard can make fishing solo or with family and friends a safer, happier venture.
TEXT MARNIE WOODROW
