Willie Blog
A Lifetime on the Water: Brad Staples and His Trusted Predator Boat
For over four decades, Brad Staples has been a trusted name in fishing, guiding countless adventurers along the scenic lower Deschutes River in Oregon. As the owner of Western Fishing Adventures, Brad has dedicated his life to sharing his passion for fishing and the great outdoors, all while relying on one constant companion: his fleet of Willie Boats.
A Journey Rooted in Passion
Brad’s love for fishing began at an early age, casting lines alongside his family on the Clackamas River where he grew up. “I remember running into Willie Illingworth at a Sportsman’s show in Portland around 1983,” Brad recalls. That encounter marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership with Willie Boats, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in aluminum fishing boats.
Built for the Job: The Willie Advantage
Over the years, Brad has used a variety of Willie Boats to meet the demands of his business, from Predator jet boats to drift boats. Each vessel has proven to be a reliable workhorse on the water, particularly in the challenging rapids of the lower Deschutes.
“The Predator has a shallower V compared to some boats, but it offers an incredibly comfortable ride through rapids,” Brad explains. He also highlights the customization options Willie Boats provides, allowing guides like him to adapt the vessel for any application.
For instance, Brad’s ability to remove seats from his boat came in handy during a unique project in 2020 when Oregon State Parks hired him to transport materials upriver to rebuild facilities damaged by a wildfire. “The removable seats allowed me to load materials and navigate the river with ease,” he notes, showcasing the boat’s versatility.
Trusted by Guides, Loved by Owners
What sets Willie Boats apart is their attention to detail and commitment to listening to fishing guides. “Willie Boats are designed differently from most boats out there,” Brad says. “Willie Illingworth was a guide himself, and he truly understood what we needed on the water.”
This dedication to innovation has made Willie Boats a favorite among guides and outfitters. From overnight camping trips to transporting camp gear, the customizable layouts and sturdy design make them ideal for any river application.
Experience the Difference
For Brad Staples and countless others, Willie Boats is more than a brand—it’s a trusted partner on the water. Whether you’re navigating challenging rapids, running fishing charters, or embarking on personal adventures, these aluminum boats are designed to deliver performance, comfort, and reliability.
As Brad puts it: “If you’re looking for a powerboat, especially a jet boat, I’d highly recommend Willie Boats. They’ll build and customize it exactly the way you need.”
After 41 years on the water, Brad’s endorsement carries weight, proving that with a Willie Boat, you can always ride in confidence.
Explore Willie Boats today and discover the vessel that’s built for your journey.
