Why a Smallmouth Bass? The Story Behind My Logo

The smallmouth bass isn’t just my favorite fish—it’s the heartbeat behind Kozlowski Co. In this blog, I share why this scrappy, strong species became the symbol of my brand. From personal loss and resilience to carving my own path in the outdoor world, the smallmouth represents more than just a fight on the line—it stands for the grit it takes to keep going, no matter what. If you’ve ever had a fish, a moment, or a memory that shaped you, this one’s for you.

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How a scrappy fish became the symbol of resilience, purpose, and the spirit behind Kozlowski Co.

If you know me, you know that smallmouth bass are my favorite fish. They’re scrappy, strong, and pound-for-pound, one of the hardest-fighting freshwater fish out there. But for me, it’s more than just admiration for their power—it’s what they represent.

In the fishing world, there’s a phrase: Free the Fighter.” It’s a nod to the respect anglers have for smallmouths, often choosing to release them so they can keep growing, keep fighting. That phrase has stuck with me in a way that goes beyond the water.

I’ve always been a fighter. Breaking out of the traditional career mold, chasing my passions, and refusing to settle for a path that didn’t feel like my own—that’s a fight in itself. Life has thrown some heavy challenges my way, moments that tested me in ways I never could have imagined. Losing my mom, facing hardships that left scars, and rebuilding from rock bottom—I’ve had to dig deep, hold on, and push forward, even when it felt impossible.

But that’s the thing about fighters. They don’t stop. They don’t back down. And like a smallmouth bass refusing to give up on the end of a line, I’ve learned to embrace the struggle, let it shape me, and use it as fuel to keep going.

That’s why a smallmouth is the symbol of Kozlowski Co. It’s not just a fish; it’s a reminder. A reminder to fight for what sets your soul on fire, to carve your own path, and to live with the same relentless spirit as the smallmouth—wild, free, and unstoppable.

This company, this brand—it’s built on that spirit. Resilience, adventure, and the belief that no matter what life throws your way, you always have more fight left in you.

That’s what Kozlowski Co. is all about. And that’s why the smallmouth bass is more than just a logo—it’s a reflection of the journey, the grit, and the story behind it all.

Shoutout to Andrew Moca (Made by Moca) for bringing my vision to life when rebranding last summer.

About the Author
Sarah Kozlowski is a Hayward, Wisconsin-based photographer, social media manager, and content creator specializing in authentic storytelling for outdoor brands, small businesses, and lifestyle clients. Through her business, Kozlowski Co., she helps capture the spirit of the Northwoods—both behind the lens and online.

📍Serving Hayward, Wisconsin and the surrounding Northwoods region.
🎣 Events, weddings, outdoor lifestyle photography, small business branding & social media management and support.