Angling International award ‘better than Bassmaster Classic victory’

Being crowned a top lure in the Angling International LIVE Product Showcase Awards has been described as better than being the bait that won North America’s richest and most prestigious fishing tournament.

Livingston Lures – famous for its EBS (Electronic Baitfish Sounds) technology – catapulted to fame when one of its lures helped Randy Howell win the 2014 Bassmaster Classic. But the company’s VP of Sales and Manufacturing, Erick Arnoldson (pictured), told Angling International: “To be recognised as a product in its own right was super special. It brought a tear to my eye – I don’t mind admitting it.

“It is testament to the fact that the industry likes the lure and what Livingston is doing. It gives us added credibility and helps to put us on the map.”

The winning lure – the Kraken – was one of two Livingston lures to be recognised, with the Magnus winning a runner-up prize.

“A lot of hard work has gone into developing Livingston Lures and its products so this award is very special to us,” added Arnoldson, who has been spearheading the brand’s assault on the European market. After a breakthrough year in 2023 with the addition of a number of new dealers, Arnoldson hailed another successful show for the company.

The first morning of the event in Budapest saw it secure successful connections with buyers from Sweden and Latvia, which Arnoldson believes will result in meaningful agreements.

As recognition grows, Livingston continues to create baits to suit local markets and promises four more new body styles in time for next year’s Angling International LIVE in Bratislava, close to Vienna. “We continue to partner with anglers in Europe to build specific lures for the markets.

“Our aim is to build lures that catch fish not only for avid anglers, but the beginner. The use of EBS is proven and helps bring people into the sport. It is easy to use and once out there, the sound does the rest.”