Pro-Files: Rob Vander Kooi

Western B.A.S.S. pro Rob Vander Kooi, of Mesa, has the ultimate job. He gets paid to fish. 

Growing up in Minnesota, Rob already knew what he wanted to do as he spent as much time as he could on the water. But it wasn’t until he moved to Arizona in 1985 that he started to fish in tournaments. He was nineteen when he began fishing with Canyon B.A.S.S. and it was there that he got a taste of the competitive side. He was a Canyon member for two years. Rob strongly believes that anyone with an interest in tournament fishing should start at the club level. It is from there that he worked his way to being a paid professional fishing the Western B.A.S.S. Invitationals along with a variety of other competitions. Currently twenty-nine, he has won several boats for his efforts including two victorys in Wild West, a second-place finish in the Shasta Bassmaster, and an Allstar Team Championship. He also competes in the WON Bass, South Division, Pro-Ams. His sponsors include: Complete Marine, Triton Boats, Mercury, Chapman Dodge, Yamamoto Custom Baits, and Jonesin’ Baits. Rob prefers to fish reaction baits and a power style, but considers himself versatile enough to be able to adapt well. He is not afraid to size-down when the bite is tough.

Rob currently resides in Mesa with his wife Tracy, son Boyd, and daughters Ashlee and Amanda. Look for him out on the water or speaking at events such as the Boat Shows. He is a very personable, top-notch guy who would be glad to share some of his knowledge with you. We here at Az. Outdoorsman would like to wish Rob continued success in his fishing career.

KIP POLLAY (AZOD)