Yellowknife (Aug 23/06) - Fishing can be a serious hobby for many anglers. For one Yellowknifer, it's also a serious business.

Scott Martin, owner of MFS Manufacturing and Wholesale Distribution, moved to the city six years ago to begin selling his manufactured fishing products to anglers.

Scott Martin, owner of MFS Manufacturing and Wholesale Distribution, holds one of his company's most popular fishing lures. - David Ryan/NNSL photo

Now, Martin has four employee's on the payroll and a variety of fishing supplies, including jigs, lures, bait spinners and other tackle.

"It's a passion that turned into a business," said the 24-year-old Martin.

He and his employees take pride in manufacturing detailed fishing products, said Martin.

While some of MFS' made-in-the-North gear can be more expensive than other brands, Martin said his fishing products are top of the line.

"You pay for quality," he said.

Anglers have noticed that quality equals results and fishers have been purchasing MFS products in record numbers in the past year, said Martin.

"I've tripled sales this year from last," he said.

"I can't keep up to what I've got in Canada."

As sales increase, Martin said he will continue to look forward to new opportunities. He plans to wholesale MFS products in the U.S. this year, and has also been looking into the European market.

Even as MFS moves into different markets, Martin said he still knows the easiest way to market a product.

"The best advertising is word of mouth," he said.

Martin also works at and sells his products to Wolverine Guns and Tackle. Being able to meet his customers face to face is a tremendous advantage, he said.

Rachel Merilees, a sales associate at the store also agreed that a recognizable face behind the product is something customers appreciate.

"People know where the products are," she said.

"A lot of people are buying certain MFS products."

Working in the front lines of the industry also gives Martin a variety of fresh ideas for new items.

Martin is developing a jig tail with an non-rubber body which fish can digest.

MFS has also manufactured custom made fishing spoons for Sandy Point Lodge which have been popular, said Martin.

"I have lots of ideas, I'm just trying to get them out there," he said.