Kim Stricker

Kim Stricker (born 1951 Detroit, Michigan) is an accomplished professional fisherman, businessman and executive producer/host of the “” television program, which broadcasts nationally on the Outdoor Channel cable network.
Accompanied by his son Danny, the two travel the country documenting their fishing adventures, techniques and subsurface observations in an effort to disclose information rarely revealed to viewers about freshwater lakes, rivers and reservoirs. The Strickers acknowledge that the success of their television program is largely due to its unique format. Truly a one-of-a-kind freshwater fishing show, “” incorporates underwater exploration along with fishing technique and presents the informative content from a fish-eye perspective.
Early Life
Stricker developed a love for fishing and an interest in the aquatic environment at an early age while growing up on Wolverine Lake, a small inland lake in Oakland County, Michigan. Kim openly admits his fondest childhood memories are of fishing—with is father, brother and cherished friends. Stricker expressed an aspiration and natural talent for music as well. Following years of professional lessons as an adolescent, He became an accomplished organist, tickling the ivories on a Hammond B3. Kim modestly chuckles at the Canton, Ohio newspaper clipping which billed him as “The Teenage Wonder” for an appearance at a music store open house. Attending Walled Lake Schools, he graduated high school in 1969. Soon after, Kim attended open-water training and attained his scuba diving certification, a skill that he had no idea at the time would become a key component of his television career—forty years later.
The Music Years
During his teens, Kim was a member of a local rock band and played for high school dances, proms and a fair number of grassers. After high school, Stricker split away from the group, and with the accompaniment of a drummer, the duo began entertaining in local lounges and supper clubs. During the day, Kim also worked part-time at his father’s paint manufacturing company.
In February 1973 he met his future wife, Sara and they were married in 1974. Stricker continued his music on a full-time basis, however his desire for fishing competitively began to take precedent. Stricker recalls leaving the clubs at 2:00am and showing up at a local bass tournament at 4:30am. Without a doubt, the nightlife didn’t mix well with a fishing schedule and Kim and his wife were also at a point where they wanted to start a family. So in 1980 Kim made the decision to forego his music career and return to the security of the family paint manufacturing business.
Professional Life
Kim’s father, Fred was in a position to retire, so in 1981, Kim assumed responsibility of the family paint manufacturing facility as president. Stricker Paint Products, Inc. located in Novi, Michigan primarily manufactured industrial enamels for automotive related steel fabricators—a business largely built on service and personal relationships. Stricker used his fishing talent as a marketing tool to build long-lasting relationships with industrial buyers—many who remain close friends today. Kim emphasizes, “Taking a customer fishing is just good business!” In 1998 Kim was featured in a cover story in Crain’s Detroit Business Magazine in regards to his fishy marketing method. With the support of his wife, the assistance of dedicated employees and loyal customers, Stricker was soon in a position where he began fishing competitive at a professional level—all while continuing his corporate duties in the paint business.
Now a 27-year veteran of both the Bassmaster and FLW Tournament circuits, Stricker gained some national notoriety in, 1994 by winning the Bassmaster Michigan Top-100 tournament on Lake St. Clair. In addition he has qualified for the Bassmaster Classic and FLW Championship events as well.
Unafraid to perform in front of an audience, Stricker began producing and presenting instructional fishing seminars, first with the accompaniment of slides—then with video—then incorporating underwater video.
Founded in 1992, Kim Stricker Productions, Inc., a Michigan-based corporation, specializes in underwater video and the production of educational fishing programs, DVD’s and product sales video. Kim Stricker Productions, Inc. customers have included such well known companies as Strike King Lure Company, Ranger Boats, Evinrude Outboards, Chevrolet, Humminbird, JL Marine Systems, Seaguar, Boat U.S. Angler, Cabela’s, Sikkens Wood Finishes, Aqua-Vu, Deep Blue Coffee and Sport Fish Michigan.
After 51 years of business, in 2012, Stricker Paint Products, Inc. succumbed to an eminent domain acquisition and Kim settled with the county. Although bittersweet—the Strickers have moved on with television production.
Personal Life
Kim has been happily married to his wife, Sara for 40 years. His son Danny is the videographer, technical advisor and co-editor behind “Hook n’ Look”. Daughter, Katie is a medical assistant/care giver. The Strickers reside on a small private lake in Howell, Michigan.

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