Thursday, August 06, 2026
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Wheels-n-Waves helps community play outdoors

CAROLINE LOBSINGER | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 19 hours, 39 minutes AGO
by CAROLINE LOBSINGER
I grew up in the Tri-Cities, Wash., and have always loved to write. I attended the University of Washington, where I earned a double major in journalism and political science, with an area of emphasis in history. I am the fifth out of six kids — don't believe any of the stories that my siblings tell. To be able to tell others stories and take photos for a living is a dream come true — and I considered myself blessed to be a community journalist. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, hiking and spending time outdoors, genealogy, reading, and watching the UW Huskies and the Seattle Seahawks. I am a servant to my cat, Frankie, who yes, will eat anything and everything in sight … even wedding cookies. | August 6, 2026 1:00 AM

SAGLE — Before heading out on the lake or up a mountain, there's likely one place that you're going to want to head to first: Wheels-n-Waves.

"We cater to boaters, water enthusiasts, and motorcyclists by providing elite-level technical expertise and a commitment to exceptional customer experiences," owner Jon Stolz said. "From the showroom floor to our advanced service bay, we are dedicated to keeping our community moving on the water and the road."

Stolz said the goal from the beginning has been to be the most trusted authority in the region for marine and powersports. Staff are constantly working to upgrade their technical skills to serve customers and the company's inventory includes the latest items aimed at helping residents live their best outdoor life.

"We want to ensure that whether someone is purchasing their first boat or seeking a master technician for a complex rebuild, they have a local partner they can trust for the long haul," Stolz said.

Born and raised in Sandpoint, Stolz said the community isn't just where his business is located. It's home. He loves spending time outdoors and wanted to launch a business that served fellow outdoorsmen and women, people he called his friends and neighbors.

"There is a deep sense of pride in helping our community enjoy the incredible natural resources that make Bonner County such a special place to live," he added.

With local owners, Wheels-n-Waves is personally invested in the quality of customers' experiences. If their friends and neighbors are out having fun because of the help or gear they provided, then they have done their job.

The mobile marine repair service offers Mercury-certified expertise with same-day diagnostics, on-water repairs and emergency rescue service. The company aims to be the region's premier destination for comprehensive marine and powersports sales and service. On the sales floor are the 2025 and 2026 inventory of Aloha and Edge boats.

"We don’t just sell equipment; we understand the engineering behind it," Stolz said. "Our team is trained to solve high-level technical challenges."

That "full lifecycle" of recreation services includes not only service but also the sale of premium brands like Aloha Pontoons and Edge Boats. Its service department handles everything from complex marine "repower" projects to routine maintenance. Boaters and those looking to get into the sport have access to "turn-key" packages, meaning purchases from Wheels-n-Waves include a boat fully rigged with trailers and electronics.

"You're ready for the water the moment you leave the shop," Stolz said.

The TL;DR version: Wheels-n-Waves supports customers throughout their ownership journey, from sales to maintenance to winterization.

The company recently received five Best of Bonner County awards, recognition that showcases both its versatility and its expertise. While some shops focus on sales, Stolz said Wheels-n-Waves focuses on the long-term performance of customers' equipment, whether marine or powersports.

That higher level of service ensures every boat or vehicle it services meets the highest safety and performance standards.

Over the next year, Stolz said the focus will be on continuing to elevate the company's already high standards of service and customer care. Wheels-n-Waves is investing in the latest diagnostic technology and specialized training for its team to ensure the business stays at the forefront of marine and powersports engineering.

But beyond the shop, a major goal is to deepen the company's community impact.

"From participating in local benefit auctions to supporting regional youth programs, we want to ensure that as Wheels-n-Waves grows, the Bonner County community grows with us," Stolz said. "We aren't just looking to sell and service equipment; we’re looking to be a cornerstone of the North Idaho outdoor lifestyle for years to come."

Wheels-n-Waves is located at Highway 95 and Algoma Place. It can be found online at wheels-n-waves.com or by phone at 208-818-4767.

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