The Hat That Keeps Up: Josh Westerink and the Lake Oasis 2.0

If you fish the lakes of Central Ontario, chances are you have come across a guy who is cracking jokes one minute and cracking the code on big bass the next. That is Josh Westerink, rocking HKRS, hooking giants, and making it all look too easy.

Josh is not just another guy with a fishing rod. He is consistently putting up numbers and making noise in the local tournament scene; like 2024 CSFL Quinte Cup Champion and 1st place on Sturgeon Lake with Shootout Fishing League, also in 2024. All while keeping things light on the boat. His laid back energy hides a laser sharp approach to finding and landing big fish.

Ask him what is working and he will probably just smile and show you a picture of a tank largemouth pulled from a spot most people overlook.

“They ALWAYS eat the jig,” says Josh, who swears by a Punisher Jig and chunk as his go to. His setup? A flipping stick with 50 lb braid. “None of those fairy wands.”

From early morning casts to late afternoon weigh ins, Josh keeps his gear simple and reliable, and one thing never changes: the hat on his head.

The Lake Oasis 2.0 is not just part of the uniform. It is a workhorse. Whether it is dead calm at high noon or glassy water at daybreak, it is the hat Josh trusts to get him through the day. Lightweight, breathable, and built for the heat, it stays comfortable during long grind it out sessions on the water.

But here is the thing. It is not just for the boat. The Lake Oasis 2.0 slides easily from function to lifestyle. From pre fish gas station coffees to post tournament whisky, it is clean and comfortable, with no need to swap it out when the rods are packed up. The slightly curved visor with Hawaiian print underneath brings a little personality without trying too hard. Just like Josh.

"It is the only hat I do not take off when I get back to the dock," says Josh. "Light, comfortable, and built right. I do not even think about it. It is just part of my day."

Want to fish like Josh? Start with the hat. Shop the Lake Oasis 2.0

And give Josh a follow on Instagram @westerinkjosh