Industry Entrepreneurship: The Journey of Zack’s Custom Rods

In the latest episode of the Guide Post Podcast, we shift gears from fisheries policy and conservation to the world of small business and entrepreneurship in the fishing industry. ASGA’s Captain Cody Rubner sits down with Zack Richardson, founder of Zack’s Custom Rods, to talk about how he turned a childhood passion for fishing and craftsmanship into a thriving rod-building business nearing 10 employees. Zack’s journey is a testament to the idea that a love for fishing can be more than just a hobby—it could scale to a business bigger than your wildest dreams.

Driven by his desire for high-quality gear, Zack started building rods at just 11 years old. What began as a DIY solution quickly turned into an obsession, leading Zack to spend his teenage years honing his craft, learning from YouTube tutorials, and eventually starting a full-fledged business:

“…I’ve been doing it since I was eleven years old. I’m twenty six right now. Back in the day, I spent all my summers in Westport, Massachusetts. I was fishing the Westport River on a little thirteen-foot whaler. I was obsessed about fishing, like, waking up at three in the morning, two in the morning, trying to get my dad out of bed. […] My love and passion for the water have always been my identity. So, as I progressed in my skill of fishing, I’d always want the Van Staal reel or the upgraded rod or this or that. My parents were just like: nope, we’re not we’re not doing that. So I was like, how can I get [myself premiere gear]?”

In college, Richardson took a leap of faith, investing every penny he had into rod-building materials, proving that real growth often comes from risk-taking. Through grit, determination, and a keen business sense, he transformed a basement operation into a company producing thousands of rods annually, now serving customers worldwide.

Zach’s story is inspiring for anyone interested in breaking into the fishing industry—or any industry—on their own terms.He reminds us that success is driven by perseverance, adaptability, and the ability to see opportunities where others see obstacles. In the episode, Zack also dives into the challenges of scaling a small business, managing employees, and staying committed to quality while growing.

The story of Zack’s Customs Rods is a perfect example of ASGA’s ethos of Better Business Through Conservation. At its core, his success and that of countless other small businesses in the fishing industry, depends on abundant fisheries. When fish stocks are healthy and well-managed, more anglers participate, fueling demand for gear, guided trips, tackle shops and custom fishing rods. More participation means more opportunity, not just for large companies, but for the independent craftsmen, charter captains, and independent retailers who make up the backbone of our coastal communities. ASGA believes that protecting fisheries isn’t just about conservation—it’s about ensuring a strong future for those who depend on them. Stories like Zack’s prove that when fisheries thrive, so do the businesses that serve them.

Tune in to Episode 175 of the Guide Post Podcast to hear Zack’s full story, and don’t forget to subscribe for more in-depth conversations about the people shaping our industry and fighting to conserve its future. If you enjoy an episode, please leave us a review on your favorite streaming service to help elevate important conversations to the masses.

Listen now on Spotify and Apple Podcasts: