About 44° North Marine

Headshot of Brent H. Hutchings, CEO
Brent H. Hutchings
CEO

North River Boats and Willie Boats were both founded in the early 1970’s to make boats for the wild rivers of Southern Oregon. Fifty years later, these two iconic companies build the best aluminum boats in the industry, with passionate fans around the region, the nation and the world.

North River Boats and Willie Boats joined forces in late 2023. The legacy of this union is an employee-owned company, 44° North Marine, an organization built to stand the test of time. The name 44° North Marine is a reference to the 44th parallel, which crosses the beautiful state of Oregon, home to both companies.

The commitment and talent of the fine men and women of North River boats and Willie Boats sets the business apart. The proof is in the durability of the boats themselves, outmatched only by the enduring loyalty of North River Boats and Willie Boats customers.