Founder’s Story

The Early Years

Growing up outside of Merlin, Oregon on the Rogue River, nature was my playground. I lived my childhood in the woods and from a young age my Dad and me spent a lot of time outside. Some of my favorite memories are from those times, and I hold them close to my heart. 

We spent time catching salmon on the Rogue, taking fishing trips out in the Pacific, crabbing off the coast, and skeet shooting on Onion Mountain. In the summer time it was all about hanging with the boys, swan diving off cliffs into the Rogue River, rafting Hellgate Canyon, and bonfires up at Quartz Creek mountain.

New Adventures

For college, I headed off to Hilo, Hawaii. I spent a lot of time (probably to much) on the beach and having cook outs with friends. 

I was still hungry for adventure. I signed up to work in a cannery in Togiak, Alaska. Working 18 hour days on the docks processing salmon caught by local fishermen was a great experience. We would spend lunch breaks on the docks watching the bears feed below.

Coming Home

After graduation, I was ready to come home, and settle in the Pacific Northwest.

I soon came to find that I wasn't happy with the Pacific Northwest apparel scene, and what it represented. I wanted something else besides puffy overpriced jackets, "I love the PNW" T-shirts with hearts and rainbows and "Keep Portland Weird" stickers. For me the real Northwest spirit existed somewhere between the bonfires and the bars. So I set our to create my own brand with unique designs, quality apparel, and a brand you can trust. So in 2021 in my garage FIS was born. 

Be unique, be an outsider, and make your next adventure FALL IN SIGHT.

Welcome to the FIS Crew!

Davey Niznik 
Owner & Founder