FAIRFIELD — Eddie Belardo is confident that Klamath Boats can withstand the COVID-19 national emergencies. They have survived and thrived ever since 1947. This company is strong and will continue to thrive.
Belardo, president of the company, said that “we’re one the oldest boat companies around.”
Klamath Boats was started by two WWII-era aircraft mechanics. They were experts in aluminum fabrication and it was not difficult to focus their attention on boats.
They made aluminum shapes for airplanes and thought they would make shapes for boats. Belardo says that it grew from there.
Belardo states that boat construction from light-cage welded aluminium offers many benefits. Klamath’s models, which range in length from 8 to 21 feet, weigh less than fiberglass boats. They are also lighter than many of their aluminum competitors. They are strong as nails.
He says that our boats are welded without rivets. Riveted boats are made up of thousands upon thousands of rivets. There is a good chance that one or more rivets will fail over the lifetime of the boat. Welded boats are also less likely to leak and offer greater durability. Klamath Boats can be found in outfitter rental fleets or in the hands anglers who value high quality.
All Klamath Boats over 18 feet come standard with zinc anodes that can be used in saltwater. Galvanic corrosion is prevented by the anodes. Belardo states that the anodes protect against galvanic corrosion.
Klamath’s 18-foot OPW model is one of the most sought after in California. OPW is open windshield. “It’s a multi-species boat,” Belardo says. There is enough space at the bow to throw or cast lures. Casting from the back is possible by another guy. A full enclosure protects you from the elements and allows you to bottom bounce, drift fish, or anchor.
Klamath’s youngest worker has been with the company for 4 years. This is a very short time for the company. Klamath employees have worked for Klamath for many decades. In September 1979, the Production Manager was hired.
Belardo said, “He worked his ways up.” He was a parts guy and then he became a finish man. He learned how to weld, and eventually became foreman. He is living the American dream.
Belardo took a similar route. He was fresh out of Cal State East Bay’s business school, and visited the company to do some maintenance on WALMART KID MOTORCYCLES his Klamath. He spoke with the owner, asked him if he was searching for an accountant, and worked his way up.
Klamath Boats, LLC is a small business. This makes them more flexible than their larger competitors and allows them better customer service. Belardo states that this is the benefit of a small business. If you have a problem, you can speak with the President.”