Jake Mageau

Growing up as a young fisherman in Lahaina, Maui, Jake could have guessed he'd become a fishing guide, but he never would have thought he'd also become a professional skier. When he was just seven years old, his parents moved their family to Bend, Oregon, from Lahaina. With Mount Bachelor practically in his backyard, he quickly took up skiing. Fast forward through years of practice, competitions, wins (and losses), half pipes, and X-Games “Knuckle Hucks" - now, he spends his winters focused on filming, getting creative on my skis, and spending as much time outside as possible in his current homebase, Salt Lake City, Utah.

When the snow melts, he's quick to head out and fish the same waters that he skied all season. Fortunately, moving away from Hawaii didn't mean he had to give up his love of fishing; fly fishing is everywhere in Bend. However, his passion for fly fishing was truly ignited by one of his best friends, "old man Cort." Cort had been a steelhead guide/outfitter on the Deschutes for a handful of years. He taught Jake how to tie a fly, and the next day they went out, and fished it (with success). Nowadays, Jake is a licensed fly fishing guide based in Salt Lake City, and 95% of the flies he has are self-tied. As time goes on, he has found that fly tying is an effort to feel closer to and have a better understanding of what is happening in and out of the water.

Ever since he Iwas a little kid, he's felt this deep connection to the outdoors and nature that he really can't put into words. He's been lucky enough to have close proximity to water and mountains all his life, and this proximity has fundamentally shaped who he is as a person, a fisherman, and a skier. The nature of the sports he has chosen to invest his life into have also played a significant role in shaping who he is. Skiing and fly fishing both offer an incredible amount of freedom that bring along constant change and creativity. However, they express this in completely opposite ways. The type of skiing Jake enjoys is adrenaline-filled and puts his body at risk. According to Jake, when he steps into the river or gets on his boat, there is something else – peace, excitement, and deep thoughts that often feel mindless.

Who do you look up to? Any personal or professional heroes?

Brady Perron has been an inspiration of mine for as long as I can remember. Interestingly, he has become a close friend of mine, and I've had the privilege to film three short films with him. Additionally, my parents inspire and motivate me; the bond I share with them is something I will always cherish. As the years pass and I grow older, our connection has only grown stronger, and I find that incredibly beautiful.

Where's your fav vacation spot?

Specifically, my favorite summer vacation would have to be camping on the Oregon coast for some salmon and bull trout fishing. Meanwhile, my favorite winter vacation spot would be Kläppen ski resort in Sweden. Kläppen is renowned for its park-driven mountain, and at the end of each season, they host an event called "Kimbo sessions" featuring a custom private park with the most insane features and park skiers out there. Participating in this event has allowed me to meet tons of incredible people and skiers. Whether on the Oregon coast or at Kläppen, you'll find me at peak happiness.

If you were to have one superpower what would it be and why?

While I can think of a couple superpowers I'd like to have, my top choice would be healing powers. It would be pretty rad to be able to heal illnesses and injuries for myself and others.

Favorite adventure beverage?

Beer....enough said.

What are three Chums items on your must-pack gear list?

My Downriver Rolltop Backpack always accompanies me when I go fishing. It holds all the gear I need for the day and keeps my belongings dry while I'm out there. Chums sunglass cases are another essential item for me, but I'm particularly fond of the Shade Shelter case for its quick-drying material and its ability to keep my lenses scratch-free. And, of course, you can't forget about the namesake - any Chums retainer is a must.

BONUS QUESTION: just 'cause we’re curious

Is a hotdog a sandwich?

I'm not sure the exact definition of a sandwich, but it feels wrong to call a hot dog a sandwich, so I'm going to say it's just its own thing.

 

@m1sta_mango