At KDI Wealth Management, our clients' success is powered by our dedicated team. Behind every engagement, every innovation, and every success are unique individuals driven by passion, purpose, and personal journeys. Our "Getting to Know You" blog series aims to pull back the curtain and introduce you to the remarkable team members who bring our firm to life.
My name is Dylan Justice, and I was born and raised in the scenic town of Payson, Arizona. Nestled among the towering pines and surrounded by the vast beauty of the Arizona wilderness, it’s no wonder that the outdoors became a central part of my life. From an early age, I found my greatest passion in bass fishing, and over the years, this hobby has grown into a lifelong pursuit that shapes who I am today. Whether I’m out on my Ranger boat, casting a line in the early morning mist, or fishing in distant states, the thrill of bass fishing is a constant in my life.
Bass fishing has been a part of my family’s tradition for as long as I can remember. Growing up, I spent countless weekends at Roosevelt Lake with my parents, learning the ropes of fishing from the very people who instilled in me a love for the sport. From the time I could walk, I was out on the water, fishing beside my family, and soaking in every lesson and every moment of the experience.
As I entered middle school, my love for bass fishing deepened. I became more serious about the sport, studying different techniques, and refining my skills. This marked the time when I began to dedicate more focused time to fishing. It was no longer just about the fun of the catch; I was driven to understand the nuances of the sport and develop a competitive edge. I spent hours researching tackle, experimenting with different lures, and perfecting my casting techniques. By the time I reached high school, I was participating in bass fishing tournaments across Arizona, competing against other anglers who shared my passion for the sport.
Fishing tournaments are where I truly found my competitive spirit. While I’ve fished many of Arizona’s renowned lakes, such as Roosevelt, Apache, and Canyon, I’ve also had the opportunity to compete in tournaments in California. Each location presents its own set of challenges, and each tournament is a chance to learn, grow, and test my skills. The adrenaline rush of a tournament day, the pressure of landing the biggest bag, and the thrill of victory when it all comes together—there’s nothing quite like it.
One of the highlights of my bass fishing journey was the day I caught my largest bass—a 13.65-pound giant from Saguaro Lake. That fish will always hold a special place in my heart, as it stands as a testament to the years of dedication and hard work I’ve put into the sport. Every fish I catch, big or small, represents not only the skill I’ve developed over time but also the countless hours spent on the water, learning the art of bass fishing.
Beyond traditional bass fishing, I’ve also embraced fly fishing, and I’ve had the opportunity to fish in multiple states across the country. Whether I’m casting a fly rod in the rivers of Colorado or chasing giant grass-carp in the canals of Phoenix, the thrill of catching a fish on a fly rod is unparalleled.
Another important aspect of my fishing journey is the craft of building my own rods and tackle. I take great pride in customizing my gear, ensuring that each piece is tailored to my specific preferences. There’s something incredibly satisfying about the process of designing and building a rod from scratch, and it’s become a hobby in and of itself. Crafting my own tackle also allows me to experiment with new techniques and fine-tune the presentations I use down to the most minute detail.
Whether I’m fishing locally, traveling to new places, or building my own tackle, fishing remains an integral part of my life. It’s a passion that I’ve carried with me since childhood, and one that I will continue to pursue for years to come. If there’s water to fish, I’ll be out there, casting my line and chasing the next big catch. Bass fishing has shaped me in many ways, and I’m excited for the journey ahead, wherever it may take me.
My passion for fishing, especially the craft of building my own rods and tackle, reflects the attention to detail I bring to my role as an Associate Advisor at KDI Wealth Management. Just as I carefully customize each piece of gear, ensuring it meets my exact preferences, I’m equally dedicated to tailoring financial strategies that fit each client’s unique goals. Bass fishing has taught me the importance of precision and experimentation, which I apply when navigating complex financial plans and fine-tuning strategies to best serve our clients. Whether guiding clients through familiar financial waters or exploring new investment opportunities, I approach each challenge with the same commitment I bring to fishing. This work is more than a career; it's a lifelong journey, much like my love of bass fishing, and I'm excited to help clients pursue their own financial "big catch" with dedication and skill.
If you missed previous team member introductions, you may read them here: