Bass Pro Shops Buys Major Boat Brands

Big news in the world of fishing boats. Bass Pro Shops announced today that it has reached an agreement to acquire Fishing Holdings, LLC, maker of the iconic boat brands Ranger Boats, Stratos and Triton. Bass Pro already owns the Tracker Marine line of fishing boats.

The deal remains subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions, according to Platinum Equity, the global investment firm that brokered the sale. The price tag was not disclosed.

According to a Bass Pro Shops press release, the agreement brings together popular and internationally recognized boat brands. “It also creates another connection between two industry leaders, Bass Pro Shops founder/CEO Johnny Morris and Ranger Boats founder Forrest Wood, who are dedicated fishermen, conservationists and entrepreneurs,” states the release.

“This partnership brings added long-term stability for both companies and for the dealer networks that provide customers with quality boats at exceptional values,” the release quotes Bass Pro chief Morris as saying. “I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Forrest Wood many years, and I deeply respect him and his family that founded and built a solid performing business with excellent products.”

According to the release, Fishing Holdings, best known for Ranger Boats, will continue to run independently under its existing management in Flippin, Arkansas, a two-hour drive from Bass Pro Shops‘ headquarters in Springfield, Missouri.