Powell River Outdoors (PRO) is celebrating its 16th year in business in 2018. The outdoor store has been serving the local community as a one-stop shop for outdoor gear, licensing, rentals, and above all, local knowledge, according to owner Sam Sansalone.
PRO staff members are all avid outdoor enthusiasts who have carefully chosen what gear to stock based on personal experience, says Sansalone.
“We have the expertise to do with fishing, the backcountry, and we practice what we preach,” he adds. “We’ve used almost all the inventory here. Anybody can sell anything but we really know our product.”
Exclusive lines include MSR, Black Diamond, Hot Core sleeping bags and tents, Vortex Optics, and Peetz Fishing Gear and tackle.
Knowing the area is another vital asset of the business, says Sansalone.
“We know what you need to have a good time in Powell River, especially to do with the outdoors,” he says. “We’re basically a one-stop shop for everything to do with Powell River’s outdoors.”
This includes stocking all the gear, supplies and licensing necessary for the next great outdoor adventure, from hunting, fishing, boating or hiking the Sunshine Coast Trail. Tilley hats were brought in last year as well as PRO’s very own Fillet & Release brand and apparel, a local favourite, says Sansalone.
Spring is when fishing really starts to pick up, explains Sansalone.
“April and May is when the big salmon runs start to come through, and one of our specialities is fishing,” he says. “Not only do we sell the gear, but we do a lot of fishing. We can save new boaters a lot of time and money by helping them with what to buy, what not to buy, and where to go.”
The store also offers fishing charters, which is a great option for people visiting the area or who simply want to show up and relax.
“We have three boats that do guiding out of the store,” says Sansalone. “Whether it’s whale watching or fishing for salmon, halibut or bottom fish, we know where the fish generally are.”
For those who want to build their angling skills, PRO is offering a Fishing 101 course at Royal Canadian Legion on Friday, April 13 at 6 pm. Tickets are $15, which includes a burger and beer, and available at PRO. Children are welcome at the event.
“If you’re new to town, just getting into fishing or just want to learn more of the basics and fundamentals of different types of fishing, you definitely don’t want to miss this,” says Sansalone. “There’s lots of prizes, lots of laughs and the opportunity to tell some of your best fishing stories.”
Other services the store offers include firearms courses. PRO can also help with firearms involved in estate sales and is fully licensed and insured.
A new service being offered is knife sharpening, which includes a pickup and drop-off service for sharpening kitchen knives. Plenty of rental items from small boats and fishing gear to stand-up paddle boards are also available.
“A lot of people come here and don’t realize how many lakes we have,” says Sansalone. “This way people don’t have to pack all their gear when they come to Powell River.”
Being able to find nearly all the necessary items under one roof is a huge advantage, says the owner, adding that 2018 will be a great season to be outside, regardless of the pursuit of choice.
“It’s going to be one of the busiest summers we’ve ever seen is my prediction,” says Sansalone.
Supporting local businesses and the community at large is extremely important to the local economy and life of the town says Sansalone. Competition from out-of-town box stores and internet shopping is a challenge, however, small local companies can offer a level of service and knowledge that sets them apart, he adds.
“We’re really appreciative of all the community support,” says Sansalone. “Whenever possible, shop local. It does make a difference how much money stays in town. You cheer for your home team, so shop from your home team.”
For more information:
• 604.485.4868
• email pro@proutdoors.com
