Episode 13: Fishell Paddles

Recorded December 2021

Greg Fishell is an outdoor enthusiast and owner of Fishell Paddles, North America’s premier supplier of handcrafted wood canoe paddles.

Greg grew up in a canoe tripping family and spent much of his life on the water and working at summer camps as a guide. It was during his camp years in Ontario and through his father John that he developed a close relationship with master paddle maker, Ray Kettlewell.

In the fall of 2013, Ray announced his retirement from paddle making to focus on building cedar strip canoes. Greg got in touch with Ray, and came to an agreement to take over his time-honoured designs, templates, and equipment. A short four months later, Fishell Paddles was launched. Working alongside Ray, Greg quickly mastered the trade by drawing on his wisdom and knowledge.