The Xplor Story is one of
grit, dedication and an unwavering desire to build boats that allow you to
GO ANYWHERE, GO EVERYWHERE
Born from an idea for a film project out of a garage in Columbia, South Carolina, Xplor Boatworks was a thing before it was a thing. Owner, Frankie Marion, wanted to build a boat for a film project called the Xplor Project. He needed a skiff that would allow him to traverse across the vast Louisiana Delta unaided for an entire month. This skiff needed to have enough storage to carry gear for multiple people, be agile enough to get into the deepest pockets of the marsh, and be built well enough to withstand everything the team would throw at it. The trip was not only a success in that Frankie was able to complete the film project, but also that the boat exceeded expectations. Upon returning to the dock, Frankie had several requests for boats, just like the one he had built for his expedition. Thus, Xplor Boatworks was born.
Now..
Xplor Boatworks is based out of Columbia, South Carolina and is a team effort. Manufacturing four models of boats and continuing to grow as a boat building company, Xplor’s values remain the same. Our boats are built by hand, with passion, and to the highest of standards. Being infused with a fully cored construction, our boats are truly built to GO ANYWHERE, GO EVERYWHERE. No detail is left unnoticed throughout the build process. We are continuously innovating and working with our owners to build boats that suit every need.
Xplor Ambassadors are one of a kind! They are the people who help make Xplor Boatworks the company it is. See their stories below.
Capt. Bear Holeman
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Capt. Bear Holman
Guide, Keywest Angling
Capt. Bryan “Bear” Holeman is fun loving and super fishy. His larger than life personality and jovial attitude make him a blast to fish with, as evidenced by his numerous repeat anglers. If you’re looking for a guide that doesn’t ooze the super serious “Keys guide” mentality he’s your man. Bear as described by Jose Wejebe host of Spanish Fly on the Outdoor Channel; “Bryan Holeman, Bear as his friends know him… butt kickingly big…fish catching… gun shooting… hillbilly son of a gun! That’s my buddy Bear.”
Capt. Jason Woodham
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Capt. Jason Woodham
Guide and Owner of Merrikohl Outfitters
Captain Jason Woodham started his fishing career at the ripe age of 10 in the Florida Gulf Coast and later in the Bahamas, Mexico and St. Thomas. Acquiring his OUPV 6-pack Captain’s license in 1997, he ran charters on his own boats, offered guide trips, gained coveted sponsorships and spoke at several regional fishing expos.
In 2001, Jason began running a tournament sportfishing operation that would last over the next 16 years. During his career as a captain, Jason won countless tournaments, as well as top boat and captain awards along the Gulf Coast, East Coast and the Florida Keys. He’s fished from Nova Scotia to Costa Rica and amassed a lifetime of knowledge about fishing, boats and his most treasured skill, sincerely connecting with people.
Captain Jason’s passion for all things outdoors and teaching those with like interests lead him to start MerriKohl Outfitters, named after a charter boat he owned in 2005. The name “Merrikohl” was coined upon commenting on the miracle of life, after his 2 children, Merritt and Kohl, were born.