Why Our ProTeam Aligns with Our Brand
7-minute read
We’re very proud of the high-level kayak anglers and canoeists who are part of the Bending Branches National ProStaff team. These men and women add so much value to our brand, as we strive to add value to their pursuits on the water.
In this blog, we thought we’d collect feedback from them on two topics we think will help you as well:
- Why they choose to align with our brand as reps out in their respective paddling worlds
- What their favorite Branches paddle(s) is/are
We won’t be able to fit them all in this one article—it would be way too long. But we chose a handful of our 2026 members to share with you what they shared with us.
Why Align with Bending Branches as a Canoeist?
Joey Chapman paddles a variety of boats, but represents canoeing on our ProStaff team. He works in the paddling industry in his home country of Wales as an instructor and guide. He also loves canoeing adventures.
(Photo courtesy of Joey Chapman)
When asked why he chooses to align with us, he said, “I’m selective when it comes to aligning with brands. I prefer to work with companies whose values truly resonate with me, and whose mission I can fully support.
“That’s why when I had the chance to chat with Susie and the team, it was immediately clear that they were different. Not only are they dedicated to creating next-level products, but they’re also passionate about growing paddlesport within local clubs and nurturing the next generation of paddlers—something that’s deeply important to me as well.
“There’s nothing more rewarding than speaking with clients who’ve tried a Bending Branches paddle during a course and then gone on to invest in one for themselves. Hearing how much they love the paddle and knowing I played a part in that journey is a true highlight of my work.”
Joey’s paddle collection includes the Explorer Plus, Expedition Plus and Beavertail. “These paddles really have taken some abuse from 100-mile canoe trips, through to paddling grade 3-4 rocky ditches in Wales,” he said.
Will Copestake is another UKer. He lives in Scotland and c0-owns Kayak Summer Isles, a touring and instruction company. Here’s his take on why he chooses to be part of the Branches Pro team:
“I align with Bending Branches for two main reasons, among many. The first is the team ethos amongst the Bending Branches family and the attention to detail between the communication and support they give.
(Photo courtesy of Will Copestake)
“Secondly, as a woodworker, I admire the beautiful craftwork in the paddles you produce, which in my opinion, is second to none. The paddles are tough, reliable and beautiful.”
His favorite paddles are the Black Pearl for flatwater, “for its light weight and responsive characteristics. When it comes to Scottish whitewater and its many rocks, I will always go for my Expedition Plus. Time and again it’s proved its longevity against quite a bit of abuse on my part.”
Olivia Bledsoe and Helena Karlstrom are two American members of the Hudson Bay Girls. They joined our ProStaff team after the successful completion of their 1,200-mile canoe trip from Lake Superior to Hudson Bay (with the other young women).
Olivia shared, “In 2025, I paddled a 1,200-mile canoe route to Hudson Bay, and I used my Bending Branches Beavertail and Explorer Plus paddles the entire way! Quality and durability are absolute necessities for any type of gear when traveling in the remote backcountry.
(Photo courtesy of Olivia Bledsoe)
“My paddles held up incredibly well, making it through days of swamp paddling, expertly steering in four-foot swells on Lake Winnipeg, and surviving many direct hits to rocks when paddling whitewater.”
Helena added, “I am drawn to Bending Branches because of their support for my journey in paddling. They have encouraged my crew and me and empowered us to be bold.
(Photo courtesy of Helena Karlstrom)
“Bending Branches supported my all-women’s crew to Hudson Bay and shared my story online. I feel proud knowing that my crew and our journey are represented on the website. Their continued support has made me a fan for life.”
What A Few of Kayak Fishing ProStaffers Have to Say
Chris Funk lives in Alabama and kayak fishes all over the southeastern United States. He’s been in one kind of boat or another for more than three decades. We often use his beautiful photography in our blog posts.
“I went to branches on my own after breaking inferior paddles, Chris said. One time paddling with a friend's Angler Pro, I was hooked for life! I have used them from Tennessee to the Florida Keys and from the Atlantic to the Pacific.
(Photo courtesy of Chris Funk)
Chris’s favorite paddle? “Angler Pro by far. Zero flex, tougher than woodpecker lips and has the power to move big loads in heavy current without asking nicely!”
Eron Dodds is a Canadian kayak angler living in Ontario. Active in the leadership of national angling groups and tournaments, Eron said, “Bending Branches has always been my favorite brand of paddles.
“They are very well built, appealing, and the culture Branches has created is something I stand behind and am proud to promote and be a part of. Truly a family of paddlers.
(Photo courtesy of Eron Dodds)
“I have always had excellent experiences with Bending Branches paddles. I've never broken one, nor has a paddle failed me. A lighter paddle = less fatigue = more time on the water = more fun! The selection of paddles is awesome. I can't wait to see what's next!”
Eron votes for the Angler Pro as his favorite, too. “The AnglerPro Carbon is simply incredible. So light. Great flex. My ultimate favorite.”
He also uses and likes the Angler Pro fiberglass model, Angler Navigator, and Angler Ace. “There is a paddle in the lineup to suit every budget, need and want. This is key,” He added.
Jason and Jennifer Schall are a husband/wife kayak fishing team who are both part of our National ProStaff. Based in South Carolina, they’ve fished all over the world and hold several species world records between them.
“What’s not to love about Bending Branches?” said Jason. “I could have chosen any paddle in the world. I have always aligned with Bending Branches because I know they produce the strongest, lightest, and best paddles for me to get the job done on the water.
(Photo courtesy of Jason & Jennifer Schall)
“I trust the brand, and that has come from years of experience in using the Bending Branches gear. My paddle is one of the most important pieces of gear that I have with me on the water. Furthermore, the relationships I have with the people at Bending Branches have always been important to me. The fact that the world's best paddles are being made right here in the United States is the cherry on top.”
Jennifer agrees: “Bending Branches is the top paddle in the industry. As a kayak angler, I’m typically on the water for 8-10 hours at a time, and I need a paddle that’s high-quality, lightweight, durable, and dependable. Bending Branches is the only option for me.
“I also appreciate the science and effort that goes into the design of the paddles. The innovations and improvements continue to impress me year after year—by making the paddle easier to put together and take apart, to making the paddles lighter and stronger, and improving visibility with different and more vibrant colors.”
Click here to learn more about these folks and all our National ProStaff team.
Do you have more questions? Let our friendly Customer Service team help you! Contact us at 715-755-3405 or bbinfo@bendingbranches.com, or choose our online chat option.
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