Introducing Team Canada: Our Road to the Nations Cup

For the first time in the history of competitive saltwater kayak fishing, Canada is sending a national team to the world stage. This June, seven anglers from across the country will travel to Los Buzos, Panama for the 2026 Saltwater Kayak Fishing Nations Cup — and we couldn't be more proud to represent the maple leaf.

The Team

Our roster brings together a diverse group of anglers from coast to coast. Keith Stevenson leads the team with years of organizational and competitive experience. James McBeath serves as Team Captain, bringing strategic vision and on-the-water leadership. Brad Torry has been instrumental as our Sponsorship Lead, building the partnerships that make this journey possible.

Rounding out the squad are Kyle Borkes, Crystal Borkes, Noah P.Q. Regnier, and Jordan McRae — each bringing their own strengths and deep passion for kayak fishing. What unites us all is a love for the sport and the drive to prove that Canadian anglers belong among the best in the world.

The Vision

This isn't just about one tournament. Our vision is to put Canada on the map in the world of competitive saltwater kayak fishing. We want to inspire the next generation of Canadian kayak anglers, grow the sport domestically, and show the international community what Canadian grit and determination look like on open water.

Saltwater kayak fishing is one of the fastest-growing disciplines in competitive angling. Unlike traditional boat-based tournaments, it demands a unique combination of pedaling endurance, technical angling skill, and ocean awareness.

Los Buzos: The Land of the Giants

The Nations Cup will be held at Los Buzos Resort on Panama's Pacific coast — widely regarded as one of the world's premier kayak fishing destinations. Known as the "Land of the Giants," Los Buzos features a unique underwater topography where depths plunge from 20 to over 2,000 feet within just three miles of shore. That dramatic drop-off creates an incredible convergence zone where pelagic species patrol in staggering numbers.

We're talking roosterfish, cubera snapper, yellowfin tuna, dorado, and even the occasional marlin — all within paddling distance of the beach launch. For kayak anglers, it doesn't get much better than this. The remote jungle setting, the warm Pacific waters, and the sheer density of gamefish make Los Buzos the ultimate proving ground.

The tournament runs from June 28 to July 4, 2026, with teams from around the world competing over three intense days of fishing. Each day, anglers will launch at dawn and battle both the elements and the fish in a true test of skill, endurance, and strategy.

What's Ahead

Over the coming weeks, we'll be sharing more about our preparation — gear breakdowns, training sessions on the coast, and the logistics of getting a seven-person team to the jungles of Panama. We'll also be introducing each team member individually so you can get to know the people behind the paddles.

Follow along, cheer us on, and help us make history. Canada is headed to the Nations Cup — and we're going to make it count.