Catching Waves: World Champion Wake Surfer Jake Caster on EpicSurf

In our ongoing EpicSurf Surfer Chronicles series, EpicSurf had the pleasure of chatting with world champion wake surfer Jake Caster. Known for his impressive skills and innovative approach, Jake shared his surf journey, challenges he has faced, and the unique advantages of stationary waves like EpicSurf.

Jake’s passion for board sports started at a young age. “I was always a board sport guy,” he says. Transitioning from skateboarding to water sports, Jake spent summers wakeboarding, waterskiing, and wake surfing with a friend who owned a wake boat. When wake surfing gained popularity around 2012, Jake found his true calling. Posting videos online caught the attention of companies, leading to sponsorships and a deeper commitment to the sport. 

Like any athlete, Jake faced his share of challenges. Initially, he was hard on himself, especially after some performances in competitions. “Learning to conquer that feeling and be okay with not always winning was a big learning curve,” he shares. This resilience and maintaining a positive attitude, even when things don’t go as planned, were crucial parts of his growth. One of Jake’s standout achievements was winning the world championships in 2017 at the age of 17. This victory, which took place in British Columbia, marked his first year as a professional rider and remains a highlight in his career. “It was a such a cool feeling,” he recalls, reflecting on the experience that solidified his passion for wake surfing. 

Jake first learned about EpicSurf through a friend who sent him a video on Instagram. Intrigued by the stationary wave technology, he saw the potential it held for training and honing skills. Unlike ocean or traditional wake surfing, where there can be long waits between attempts, EpicSurf allows for continuous practice. “You can try a trick, fall, and be back on the wave to try again in 10 seconds,” he explains. This feature is particularly beneficial for mastering maneuvers and building muscle memory. 

 Jake’s first experience on EpicSurf was exhilarating. “The power in your turns and the speed you can get going side to side felt like flying,” he recalls. This unique sensation, combined with the ability to practice continuously, makes EpicSurf an invaluable tool for surfers. 

For Jake, the best part about stationary waves is the ability to fall and get back on the wave quickly. This convenience allowed him to practice daily during the winter, ensuring his skills remained sharp year-round. “The techniques you practice on stationary waves translate to the ocean and boat,” he notes, making it a versatile training option. 

Jake encourages aspiring wake surfers to embrace creativity and patience. “Take your time and do things differently. Be creative in your approach,” he advises. Creativity in the sport not only sets riders apart but also keeps the experience enjoyable and fresh. The ever-evolving nature of wake surfing keeps Jake motivated. With new riders entering the scene and the continuous progression of tricks, there’s always something new to learn and achieve. This dynamic environment fuels his passion and drive to stay engaged with the sport. Looking ahead, Jake envisions a transition from athlete to content creator within the industry. He plans to leverage his experience and creativity to produce engaging content that attracts a wider audience to wake surfing. Whether through social media, free riding, or innovative projects, he aims to remain an influential figure in the sport.