Built by Anglers, For Anglers

We’re a small team of passionate fishermen who got tired of complicated, permanent transducer mounts. So we built something better.

Unmatched Feature

From the Grid to the Great Outdoors

The Spark of an Idea

I’ve spent my career working as a lineman for the power company, a job that requires precision, tough gear, and a knack for solving problems on the fly. But when I’m off the clock, you’ll find me in one of two places: out on the ice or paddling my kayak.

The “First Mate” wireless pole wasn’t born in a boardroom; it was born out of frustration. I wanted a way to fish smarter and more efficiently, without the literal tangles of traditional setups.

Built for Ice, Proven for Everything

Originally, I designed the wireless pole specifically for the unique demands of ice fishing. I needed something rugged and reliable that could handle the cold. However, it didn’t take long for the fishing community to realize this wasn’t just a “winter tool.”

Before I knew it, fellow anglers were asking for custom mounts to add the pole to their boats. Then, I took it out on my kayak and realized the wireless design was a game-changer for small-craft stability and space management.

Our Mission

Whether you’re drilling through three feet of ice, trolling from a center console, or navigating a quiet creek in a kayak, I built this pole to solve the same problems I faced. We provide versatile, high-quality gear designed by someone who actually uses it—no matter where the fish are biting.

It started on a kayak trip in 2019. Our founder Jake had just bought a new fish finder and spent hours trying to figure out how to mount the transducer without drilling holes in his kayak.

After a frustrating day of DIY solutions that didn’t work, he went home and sketched out what would become the first First Mate Fishing prototype — a simple, portable, no-drill solution.

Three years of testing, refinement, and feedback from fellow anglers later, First Mate Fishing was born. Today, thousands of fishermen use our products from coast to coast.

What We Believe

Get the Best Performance

Follow these tips from experienced anglers to maximize your First Mate Fishing experience.

Purpose-Built

Every product we make solves a real problem faced by anglers on the water.

Community Driven

Our designs are shaped by feedback from thousands of fishermen.

Quality First

We use marine-grade materials that withstand years of heavy use.

Passion for Fishing

Our designs are shaped by feedback from thousands of fishermen.

What Anglers Are Saying

A smiling angler in a blue fishing outfit holds up four large bass, two in each hand, by a lakeside with docks, boats, and trees in the background on a sunny day.

Robbie " Goose" Hernderson

2x Illinois State High School Bass Fishing Champion

I really love my First Mate XT and how it is connected to the foot pedal because I can see a fish in live scope and once I hook it I can use the foot pedal and I will start looking for more fish when I am reeling in the one I hooked it has been a huge game changer for me and my live scope.

A man wearing glasses and a jacket stands on a boat at night, holding up a large fish by its mouth with his right hand. The fish is illuminated by bright light, highlighting its scales.

Mike McKnight

Rocky Mount, VA

I’ve been running the First Mate XT since the very beginning, and I swear by it. It is hands down the best addition I’ve made to my boat. The versatility is unmatched—I actually used a simple bike repair mount to rig mine up, and it holds rock solid. If you are looking for a motorized pole that just works, buy this.

Three people dressed in winter clothing stand on a paved area by a frozen lake, each holding large fish they caught, smiling at the camera. Snow and icy water are visible in the background.

Steve Heaton

Fishing Enthusiast

I’ve tried manual poles, but the motorized control on the XT is on another level. Being able to tap a button and sweep the transducer while my hands are busy with the rod has put more fish on the ice for me this season. Smooth, quiet, and tough.

Questions? We're Here to Hel

Whether you have questions about our products, need help with your order, or just want to share a fishing story — we’d love to hear from you.

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