CanoeSport Outfitters

"Where Paddling Is A Priority"

Home / About Us / Products / Events / Instruction /Adventure Trips / Rentals / CanoeSport Magazine

The CanoeSport Story

Jeff Holmes started CanoeSport Outfitters in 1992 at 204 West Salem Avenue in Indianola, Iowa. This first location was 600 square feet, which was barely enough space to display 5 or 6 boats. Three years later he moved the store across the street to 207 West Salem which expanded the operation to just over 1,500 square feet. By 1998 this space was also too small, so he purchased 203 West Salem and 201 West Salem, resulting in nearly 20,000 square feet of retail floor space, offices, and basement storage.

In 1996, CanoeSport also acquired the concession business at Lake Ahquabi State Park, located five miles south of Indianola. Canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, and row boats are available for rent.. It also serves as the location for most instructional programs and on-water events.

In 2000, Jeff opened a second store in Bellevue, Nebraska on Fort Crook Road. After two years in a strip mall, he purchased two buildings in Plattsmouth and relocated to 522 and 526 Main Street.

At the beginning of 2007 Jeff sold the Nebraska buildings and closed the second location. His attention turned to family matters as he and Casey bought a house in March, were married in April, andhis son Tyler came to live with them in May.

The move back to Iowa has allowed a more focused approach to the store and eliminated many of the stresses associated with running two retail stores.

Throughout its' existance Jeff has kept CanoeSport Outfitters loyal to its' original ideas. He continues to remain focused on the sport of paddling. He remains committed to finding the best companies and stocking their products all year. He always provides the best service to his customers and makes every effort to pass along staff knowledge and the love of paddling. He will continue looking for new ways to promote paddling and provide fun, exciting events for loyal CanoeSport customers.

203 West Salem Ave., Indianola, IA 50125

515-961-6117 or 1-800-257-6080 / e-mail: casey@canoesportoutfitters.com