H&W Marine, well known by local anglers for their long running title as the #1 Triton Boat Dealer in the world, just announced it will now also be a premier dealer for Skeeter Bass Boats and their famous “mosquito” logo. Although Skeeter Boats have been manufactured for over 60 years in nearby Kilgore, it has been many years since they have had a dealer in Tyler.
H&W Marine on Highway 155 South in Flint has long been the unofficial headquarters for fishermen to gather in East Texas. Although, H&W Marine’s bass boat line has always been until now; Triton Boats, local anglers that are boat owners of all different brands have made this dealership over the years their hub for fishing tournaments and area lake information. At any given time, you will find a local fisherman telling a detail filled story about the big one that got away.
A leading manufacturer of outboard-powered fiberglass bass, walleye and bay fishing boats, Skeeter is known as the pioneer of bass boats, which it first produced in 1948. Skeeter Products, Inc., based in Kilgore, Texas was purchased by Yamaha Motor Corporation USA in 1996. H&W Marine will now also be the area service provider for all Yamaha outboard motors. When asked about this big announcement, owner and East Texas native Mark Hughes said “This was a great opportunity to grow our business and to better support the local fishermen who have had to drive to Longview for service in the past”.
When asked about how their chain of dealerships have seen such growth in what have been tough economic times for others in the boating industry; Chris Knight, General Manger said “our business is based on the passion our customers have for fishing, hunting, boating, water sports and the outdoors. This passion, no matter what the economy, never fades. Our staff is comprised of good people who share these passions and are very dedicated to providing the very best products and services needed so our customers’ passions can be pursued. When you share a passion not only loyal customers do you make; but lifelong friendships.”
H&W Marine is a part of the H&W companies that also include H&W Honda -Yamaha and are family owned and operated by East Texas’ natives, the Hughes Family. They have boat, motorcycle and ATV stores in 7 locations in the ARK-LA-TEX area including Tyler, Palestine, Marshall, Texarkana, Little Rock and as of recently a new location of H&W Marine in Bossier City, Louisiana.
If you love to fish and live in East Texas, these are the guys to know! They are the definition of Skeeter’s famous slogan “Eat. Sleep. Fish.” Go by and visit them at 17485 Hwy 155 South in Flint but hold on to your hat because the fish that got away in these stories seem to get bigger and bigger.By: Angie Dolezal,
