Overview
The perfect gift for PEETZ fans and collectors of original Westcoast art...
Since 2015, PEETZ has introduced an annual limited edition of 90 PEETZ handcrafted reels that are then hand-carved, numbered and signed by Kwagiulth artist and carver Jason Henry Hunt. This unique program pairs a legacy BC manufacturer with a well known First Nations artist while also helping to raise significant funds for salmon conservation programs throughout British Columbia. The results are are beautiful any which way you look at it.
In July 2017, PEETZ introduced the design called "The Hunter", which features a bear and salmon totem in a radial design.
According to Mr. Hunt, "the bear is a powerful First Nations totem that represents strength, leadership and the courage to face adversity. The bear is highly in tune with nature and its seasonal cycles, and it is considered a protector of the animal kingdom." Regarding the salmon totem in the design, “healthy salmon runs play a key role in the health of our coastal bears, particularly as they prepare for hibernation," continues Mr. Hunt. "As a continuation of our ‘Chain of Life’ theme, this design represents the special connection between these two West Coast species.”
These limited edition reels are hand-carved using traditional tools and take Mr. Hunt a day or more to carve. For the 2017 design, polished brass inlays are included for the eyes of the bear and the salmon, which ties in nicely with the handmade brass components on the PEETZ reel.
This beautiful First Nations design is available as a limited release of 90 reels for PEETZ fans and West Coast art collectors worldwide.
Release Details
Name | Chain of Life #2 - "The Hunter" |
Artist | Jason Henry Hunt |
Medium | Handcrafted 5" PEETZ Evolution fishing reel - finished mahogany and polished brass |
Release Date | July 26th, 2017 |
Commission Size | Limited to 90 handcarved reels - signed and numbered by the artist |
A portion of proceeds from each Chain of Life reel purchased through this website will be donated to salmon conservation as part of 'REEL CHANGE' a partnership between PEETZ and the Pacific Salmon Foundation. For more details click here.
Order Your Limited Edition Reel Today
You can purchase this limited edition Artist Series reel online securely through this website, or you can call us toll-free at 800.883.0221 (Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm PST). If you would like to purchase one or more specific numbered reels, make sure you call us as soon as possible!
About Jason Henry Hunt
Born in Victoria in 1973, Jason is the son of Kwaguilth carver and artist, Stanley Clifford Hunt. Following in the footsteps of his father and uncles, Tony Hunt and Richard Hunt, Jason has merged his trained indigenous artistic capabilities with a unique, recognizable style that is sought after by collectors throughout North America and in Europe.

Dedicated to the values of old world craftsmanship, and favouring the use of hand tools to carve and finish his works, Jason creates signature pieces that range from totem poles and large scale panels to masks, paintings and jewelry.
Today, Jason is the youngest steward of a rich legacy of creativity that traces its roots from his father through his grandfather, Henry Hunt, to his great-grandfather, Mungo Martin (both widely credited with teaching many of today’s leading artists). Jason’s work explores the distinct culture and art form of the Kwagiulth people while reflecting the vibrant history and knowledge of generations of acclaimed artists.
Visit www.otterbaystudio.com for more information about Jason and his artwork.
Regarding the Collaboration with PEETZ Outdoors
"To know that every reel by PEETZ is handmade locally in small runs, that no two reels are exactly alike, and that the company has a legacy of over 90 years is really appealing to me," states Mr. Hunt. "I'm excited about the creative, artistic, yet fully functional products that will evolve through our unique collaboration."
Growing up within small communities on Vancouver Island, Jason recognizes salmon fishing as an important part of life on the West Coast. Therefore, along side PEETZ, Jason has committed to donate a portion of all proceeds from all products created through his PEETZ collaboration to salmon conservation initiatives.
The PEETZ Evolution Reel
Artist Series reels are based on the PEETZ Evolution fishing reel.
Released in 2015, the EVOLUTION fishing reel represents the first major innovation in reel design for PEETZ Outdoors in more than a decade!
There are so many wonderful advantages to a retro wood reel that we made a conscious effort to stay true to the PEETZ classic wood look, sound, and more importantly, feel! However, working closely with a number of professional west coast fisherman, we’ve introduced technical and functional enhancements to boost the performance of the PEETZ classic reel and bring it into the 21st century.
Features
- A new design that offers a nod to our past, but an eye to the future!
- New one-way drag mechanism (no more "knuckle buster" effect!).
- Precision stainless steel center shaft and roller bearings.
- New drag control knob that is a nod to the classic PEETZ "wing nut" but offers an updated look and improved feel.
- Updated non-slip drag control.
- Handcrafted from sustainably farmed mahogany - stained and sealed with PEETZ custom sealer and two coats of quality matte varnish for decades of protection from the elements.
- Hand turned and polished brass components including a beautiful lathe-shaped brass line spool.
- New solid Cherry wood handles with clean, through-hull attachment.
- The distinctive resonating sound of the PEETZ clicker with on/off button.
- Created by Canadian artisans.
- A lifetime warranty.
For full details about the PEETZ Evolution Reel, visit this model's product overview page.
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