General Information
About Us - Biography
MARINA OWNERS CHASE THEIR DREAM
Bill and Deb Chase were tired of the Los Angeles rat race. They longed to live full-time in their cabin overlooking beautiful Lake Isabella where they escaped every weekend. During the weekday while crammed into tiny office cubicles, they day-dreamed of the heady scent of pine, the rush of the “Wild and Scenic” Kern River, and the gently lapping waters of Lake Isabella. So, in early 2003 they made a leap of faith, gave notice at their respective jobs, and fulfilled their dream by moving to the Kern River Valley. A buddy of theirs happened to be selling one of the marinas on Lake Isabella, so they thought, “Hey, what do we know about operating a marina? Absolutely nothing…it’s perfect!” Making another leap of faith Bill and Deb took over the reins of North Fork Marina in the spring of 2006. Now, three years later they own not only North Fork, but also French Gulch Marina, the largest marina in central California.
In addition to disclosing Lake Isabella’s best-kept fishing secrets, both marinas offer pontoon boat, fishing boat, paddle boat, kayak and personal watercraft rentals, wet and dry boat storage, and minor boat repairs. Both marinas also offer snacks and beverages, boating, fishing and camping supplies, fishing licenses, boat permits, and local area information.
In addition to enthusiastically serving the general public, Bill and Deb Chase place great emphasis on bringing the “outdoor experience” to inner-city children and youth groups. Both marinas also honor members of the United States armed forces, Royal Air Force, and all other allied forces by offering military discounts to all active and retired members.
Bill and Deb are avid supporters of Lake Isabella’s annual fishing derby and are so enthusiastic about this year’s event to be held April 4th, 5th and 6th that they have sponsored one of the $10,000 fish. In addition, if their sponsored fish is caught from one of their rental boats, the Chase’s are planning to dish-out another $10,000.
Even though two marinas keep Bill and Deb hopping during the summer months, they always find time to greet visitors with warmth and gratitude – after all most of their customers hail from the rat race of cities near and far, so the Chase’s feel it’s their job to help them forget about the city, at least for a little while. Who knows…maybe a relaxing day on Lake Isabella will inspire one of the marina visitors to chase their dream, too!
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