Customer Spotlight: Life on the Water with a Custom North River Scout

At North River Boats, we don’t just build boats, we build confidence and a lifestyle on the water. Each boat that leaves our facility is a trusted companion for families, fishermen, and explorers seeking quality, safety, and performance in their vessel.

A great example of how our boats are used and loved by their owners is the custom 2023 North River Scout owned by Mark Michaelson and his wife, Ann’ette, of Woodland, Washington. Living right on the Columbia River, Mark is no stranger to life on the water, and he knew exactly what he wanted in a boat. What he didn’t expect was just how much he would come to love every moment aboard his Scout, or the lasting memories it would help create.

For Mark, the decision to go with North River was all about quality. “I would suggest the North River just based on the actual quality of the build,” he says. “The welds, the heaviness of the metal, the North Rivers are very, very well built.”

Mark and Ann’ette worked closely with Jesse at Clemens Marina to custom-build a Scout that met their exact needs. “We bought a 2023 North River Scout. It was custom-built with a center console and a bunch of other extras,” Mark explains. Among the enhancements were raised gunnels for improved safety and a 60-gallon fuel tank to allow for longer trips without worrying about refueling.

Jesse was instrumental in the process, helping make modifications that would increase functionality and comfort for Mark and his fishing companions. “He helped me raise the gunnels to make it safer for an older fella like myself and my buddies,” Mark says. “The larger fuel tank, the bigger motor, it’s exactly what I needed.”

Mark isn’t just a casual boat owner. He’s a dedicated angler who uses his boat often and for extended periods. “We fish it very regularly,” he says. “Sometimes we’re on it for a six or seven day stretch.”

The Scout was designed to withstand frequent use. And according to Mark, it performs flawlessly whether he’s trolling for salmon on the Columbia River or heading out for a new adventure with the grandkids. One of the most cherished memories Ann’ette has with their Scout was a trip to Ilwaco, fishing near the south jetty. “It was an amazing day,” she recalls fondly. “We caught so many interesting fish, and it was action-packed. That boat maneuvers well.” For any angler, versatility and responsiveness are key and the Scout delivered on both.

A common thread in Mark’s experience is trust, trust in the boat, the build, and the team behind it. “It’s probably one of the coolest things I’ve ever owned. I absolutely love it,” he says. “The stability on the water, the way it feels, I’ve got nothing but compliments on it.”

Safety is paramount for Mark, especially when family is involved. “It’s safe. I can take the grandkids out on it and feel completely comfortable,” he says. With raised gunnels and solid construction, the Scout is engineered to offer peace of mind, whether you’re in calm inland waters or dealing with more demanding coastal conditions.

What truly sets North River apart isn’t just our craftsmanship; it’s the connection we build with our customers. Throughout the fabrication process, North River sent Jesse photo updates of Mark’s boat, which were then forwarded to him. “So I got to watch the process take place,” Mark says.

That transparency and communication turned the build into a shared experience. “That’s probably one of my best memories, is when I was able to go over to Clemens and pick up that new boat,” he says.

Mark’s satisfaction hasn’t gone unnoticed. “I’ve already got buddies that, since I’ve had this one, are looking to buy new boats,” he shares. “And they’re all hard looking at the North River for sure.”

We truly value endorsements like Mark’s. His experience is a great reminder that when you invest in quality craftsmanship and thoughtful design, the rewards are clear confidence on the water, and a boat you can count on for years to come.

The Scout model offers a strong blend of performance, functionality, and thoughtful design. With its rugged all-welded aluminum hull, deep-V construction, and a range of customization options, it’s built to meet the needs of serious anglers and recreational boaters alike. From center consoles and raised gunnels to larger fuel capacities, the Scout can be configured to fit your lifestyle on the water.

For those who spend real time on the water and value safety, comfort, and reliability, the Scout delivers a capable and enjoyable experience