Louisiana Custom Kayaks started in July of 2020 as a backyard side gig meant to fill a void in the Louisiana kayak fishing industry. I rigged and repaired kayaks for a few months out of the garage until the demand exceeded the little bit of space I had. My operation expanded into a 1,200 square foot shop off Industriplex Blvd, where I was able to branch out into the retail side of the industry. As my online presence grew and more brands noticed LACK, I added some of the most popular products in the industry to my offerings. Kayak Kushion, Ketch, Yak Gear, Marine Mat, and Neverlost Gear are among the first brands to give my little kayak outfitting a chance to grow.
While the online presence grew to eventually reach people far outside of the United States, I also focused on creating a local community around the LACK brand. The local customers created the backbone behind the brand and allowed me to grow and keep pushing through some unfavorable economic conditions. As I was able to rig up more kayaks for the Louisiana market and create more connections, I looked for a new way to bring the kayak fishing community together. The little shop on Industriplex was great for rigging kayaks and holding inventory, but it wasn’t exactly the place to host seminars, events, and gatherings…
One thing I have learned in my short experience of running a business is that when a problem arises, the solution will also present itself whether you notice it or not. Sometimes the solution isn’t exactly what you envision, but other times it works out even better than expected. I don’t think it is any accident that as soon as I began looking for a newer/nicer shop, the opportunity arose to team up with Southern Oaks Athletic Club and relocate the LACK HQ. By teaming up with SOAC, we are able to combine the kayak fishing community of LACK with their paddle and fitness community to create the ultimate watersports experience. LACK will continue to provide premium products and services while expanding into the paddleboard tour/rental/retail scene through this partnership with Southern Oaks.
Be on the lookout for future events, paddle tours, and seminars and feel free to stop in to check everything out!
*Store hours coming soon*
15253 Shenandoah Ave
Baton Rouge, LA 70817