Lee Tauchen: Full time multi-species guide for 15 years in WI and MN. He was a huge help when I showed interest in starting my own guide service. Lee has been there and done that many times over which is why I can always count on him for solid fishing advice. He says color doesn’t matter but still owns 30 different color combinations of the same bucktails!
Meet Joe Okada
Joe’s Fishing Mentors
Troy Spilde: One of Wisconsin’s best muskie anglers. Known as Mr. Organization within our fishing group. Motto, “The smallest detail can make the biggest difference”. He used to make me sit down, re-sharpen hooks, and re-organize my boat before I was allowed to begin fishing!
Dave Berg: If there is a body of water in the Midwest that has walleye in it, Dave has probably fished it many times over. This guy can make things happen on the water when others are ready to call it a day! His experience and work ethic keeps his customers smiling and his live-well full!
Steve Miljat: One of the most accomplished Captains on Lake Michigan. I met Steve over 5 years ago in Escanaba, MI and have teamed up him each Fall since then. He has a true gift with the paintbrush as well. I began collecting his artwork before I knew him personally.
Gene Dellinger: Owner of D&S Bait, Tackle and Archery in Madison, WI. Gene hired me as I was getting out of high school and has taught me more about the Madison Lakes than anyone I know. I feel sorry for the perch when he steps on the ice. Gene is an animal with a jigging stick but will never admit it!
At the age of 6, I became consumed with fishing and aspired to one day make a living on the water. 20 years later, that dream has unfolded as I continue to pursue a successful career within the industry. 7 years ago, I started Hook n’ ‘Eyes’ Guide Service on the Madison Chain of Lakes. I acquired my USCG Captain’s license one year later as I expanded my service to the northern waters of Lake Michigan. No matter how well I do in tournaments, no winnings will ever be able to pay back my parents, Tina and Dave, for the amount of support they have given me. They are the main reason I was able to pursue this career and I can’t thank them enough for that. I have also been able to learn from some of the best anglers in the country over the last 10 years. Their information and experience is priceless and I would not be able to compete at this level without them!
Joe’s Pre-Tournament Pump-Up Playlist
Come tournament day, rain or shine, the blood needs to be pumping. At 4:00 in the morning, a large Red Bull and this playlist helps the energy level no matter the conditions!
