Gootee’s Marine Goes the Distance for Dorchester Anglers

County business one of Delmarva’s largest boat dealers

When Phillip Gootee opened his boat dealership in the 1950’s to serve the waterman who plied their trade on the waters in and around Dorchester, he hoped to help fisherman like himself secure the equipment, supplies, and services they needed to make a living. Little could he imagine half a century later, Gootee would become synonymous with Chesapeake Bay fishing and one of the largest boat dealer in the mid-Atlantic.

Serving professional and recreational anglers alike, and still owned and operated by the Gootee family, the flagship sales and service center is located in Church Creek. As their motto – Fishing Boats from Fishing Folks – indicates, Gootee specializes in fishing boats, motors and trailer packages.

According to Sales Manager – and third generation family member – Nick Gootee, who’s ‘worked here since before I was paid,’ the company sold approximately 100 new boats in 2012. “Some of our most popular boats are Maycraft, G-3, and Sailfish.”

The company employs 12 people in all of their divisions, including a charter fishing operation run by third generation family member Phillip Gootee from mid-April through November. Open year-round, this ‘seasonal’ business is just as busy in the off-season, participating in regional boat shows, performing maintenance on hundreds of boats, and preparing for the next seasons sales and charters.

To learn about Gootees, visit their website www.Gootees.com or call 800-792-0082.