What a journey this winter has been. As we pack up the displays and pull the trailer back to Ottawa for the final time this spring, I find myself looking back at the last few months with a lot of gratitude.
The 2026 show season has officially come to a close, and it has been our most rewarding year to date.
To Our Community: Thank You
First and foremost, thank you to everyone who stopped by the booth. Whether we met in Collinsville, Columbus, Madison, or right here in Morris at the Bedford Sales Open House, your support is the reason Hogue Outdoor Customs exists.
We aren't just thankful for the sales; we are thankful for the relationships. This year was about more than just tackle—it was about meeting folks from all walks of the outdoors, swapping river reports, and building new friendships that we know will last long after the spring run is over. Hearing how a River Hunter or a Valley Dancer helped you land a personal best is what keeps me motivated at the workbench.
Looking Ahead: 2026 and 2027
While the show season is over, the work in the shop is just beginning. I am officially back at the bench and ready to dive into the next chapter.
We have some big things in the works for the remainder of 2026 and heading into 2027:
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Website Restocks: I am working overtime to get the online shop back to full capacity so you can gear up for your summer trips.
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New Technical Projects: We are pushing further into custom CNC mold design and refining our balsa builds to offer even more specialized tools for the species you chase.
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Evolution of the Craft: As always, we are looking for ways to innovate and "build the tools to help folks catch more fish".
The dust is finally settling on the road, but the balsa dust is just starting to fly in the shop. Thank you for being part of this journey. We’ll see you on the water!
—John Hogue Hogue Outdoor Customs