About Clear Waters Outfitting Company
Hi, we're Dan & Sandra Meer, owners and managers
of Clear Waters Outfitting Company!
We love the outdoors just as much as you. Growing up in the Midwest, Dan in Mequon, WI and Sandra in Sauk Rapids, MN, has helped us to gain an appreciation for 'anything outdoors'.
When we're not helping people enjoy the "wild & scenic" Mississippi River, or selling great outddor equipment and gear, you might find us walking or biking on the popular Lake Wobegon Trail, just a few hundred feet from our house in Albany, Minnesota. We also might be paddling, camping, fishing, or trying to keep up with our four busy children, Nathan, Zac, Elizabeth and Simon.
Between inspirational trips to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, helping kids experience the outdoors through Scouts, 4-H, & school programs, and encouragement (and help!) from friends and family, we decided to jump into this business adventure.
Now back to business...
Established in 2009, we’re the only Central Minnesota canoe and kayak retail store and outfitter on the banks of the Mississippi.
We're only 60 minutes from downtown Minneapolis/St. Paul, 20 minutes from downtown St. Cloud and less than a mile from Interstate 94 in Clearwater, Minnesota. Visit our store and "try before you buy" one of our canoes, kayaks, or stand up paddle boards or let us outfit you with boats and gear for your next “daycation”, group outing or Boundary Waters expedition. Whatever outdoor adventure you’re planning, we’re here to help make it a safe, relaxing and enjoyable one. Because we specialize in used canoes, blem canoes, used kayaks, and blem kayaks, we always have some great deals in the shop.
We love seeing kids get outdoors and paddle so we offer great rates for families, nonprofit organizations, community groups and business outings. And as a locally owned and operated business we always appreciate your business.
When you have a few minutes, we'd love to chat with you about the great things we sell and services we provide.
Call, email us or just stop by!
Why is our location so special (Wild & Scenic River)?
We are extremely fortunate to be located on a special stretch of the Mississippi River and can not help but want to share it with you. Designated "Wild & Scenic" by the DNR, many miles along this stretch are still in their natural state due to the protection, regulations, and zoning that are associated with this title. Very few river stretches have this designation and protection. Because it is a major migratory corridor, paddlers will often see eagles, blue herons, egrets, hawks, and pelicans along with many other birds, mammals, and amphibians that call this area home.
This stretch of the river is shallow with a rocky bottom - poor conditions for motor boats but ideal for human-powered vessels. With a gently flowing current void of any rapids, dams or falls, the paddling is ideal and the fishing is second to none. Many consider it world class due to the limited motor traffic, access, and special fishing regulations.
We are convinced that you'll enjoy this Midwest gem whether you are new to paddling or a seasoned veteran!
Where do we get our great stuff?
Direct from the source! And that's why we can offer you such amazing deals!! The majority of our stock comes direct from manufacturers like Wenonah, Current Designs, and others. We also get used canoes, used kayaks, and equipment from estabished and reputable outfitters throughout the Midwest along with customers who trade in to upgrade thier equipment. Check out our current stock!
CWOC In the News...
4.6.11 Annandale Advocate: Great River, Great Ride
3.28.11 Rev 97: Five Great St. Cloud Area Places for a First Date!
3.27.11 St. Cloud Times: Water Safety Experts Urge Caution on Rivers
3.22.11 Mix 94.9 shares video of ice-out on the Mississippi River
9.7.10 West Sherburne Tribune: Clear Waters Outfitting Company
8.31.10 CleanUpTheRiver.com blog post
8.23.10 St. Cloud Times: CWOC Grand Opening
8.17.10 West Sherburne Tribune: Outfitter's Grand Opening Signals New Life for Creamery
8.7.10 Active Rain real estate blog by Steve Baklaich: A wonderful way to spend the day!
6.12.10 Canoeing.com: Minnesota Chapter Wooden Canoe Heritage Association Takes a Trip with CWOC
Summer 2010: Dale Gruber Construction featured project
2.11.10 Voyageur Canoe Outfitter blog post
