North Idaho Rec & Marine opens under local ownership

PONDERAY — North Idaho Rec & Marine, now open on U.S. 95 in Ponderay, is a new powersports and marine business under ownership with deep roots in the region’s outdoor recreation industry. 

Formerly named Northern Idaho Powersports, the business was acquired by Casey Morrisroe, owner of Specialty Recreation & Marine in Coeur d’Alene, and represents an expansion of his long-standing North Idaho operation into Bonner County.

“Sandpoint is a growing market and a great fit for our business,” Morrisroe said. “It’s a community built around outdoor recreation — riding, boating, and lake life — and we saw an opportunity to better serve that lifestyle locally.”

North Idaho Rec & Marine offers sales, service, and repair for ATVs, side-by-sides, motorcycles, snowmobiles, personal watercraft, tractors and boats. The dealership services all makes and models and employs certified technicians who handle everything from routine maintenance and tire work to engine rebuilds, crash repairs, and accessory installations.

With locations now operating in both Coeur d’Alene and the Sandpoint area, Morrisroe said customers benefit from shared inventory, improved parts availability, and expanded service capacity across North Idaho.

Plans are also underway to expand the marine side of the business in Ponderay.

“Previously, there were no boat sales or service offered at that location,” Morrisroe said. “We plan to ramp that up gradually.”

A North Idaho resident for more than four decades, Morrisroe said maintaining a local presence remains a priority. He plans to be actively involved at both locations and accessible to customers.

“We’re involved day-to-day, and we’re committed to the communities we serve,” Morrisroe said. “I think people appreciate knowing who owns the business, that the owner is here and that the money they spend with us stays in the community.” 

Morrisroe said the business he acquired already had a strong foundation, with a solid reputation in the community, supported by an experienced local staff.

“That reputation mattered a lot to me,” he said. “The staff there has been outstanding, and we kept the entire team. That continuity is important for customers.”

The business is expected to support continued employment as services expand.

Morrisroe said his hope is that North Idaho Rec & Marine becomes a long-term resource for area residents who rely on their equipment to work, recreate, and enjoy the region’s outdoor lifestyle.

“This is a family-owned business,” he said. “We’re here to provide service people can count on and to be part of the community.”

North Idaho Rec & Marine is located at 478544 U.S. 95, Ponderay. Their website, northidahorec.com, includes a comprehensive listing of their brand, services and inventory offerings, along with financing options. For information, call 208-263-1124. 

    Morrisroe