Bass Pro Shops acquires Hobie and returns production to USA

The fishing boat arm of Bass Pro Shops has acquired the iconic Hobie brand and announced plans to bring back its manufacturing to the USA.

Hobie, which distributes its craft to over 70 countries across the globe, will join Bass Pro’s White River Marine Group stable of brands in Lebanon, Missouri, from its product base in Mexico.

The return of production to its new home is said to mark an exciting new chapter for the brand and Bass Pro by supporting domestic manufacturing, creating local jobs and contributing economic growth to the region.

“Uniting with Hobie is a very proud day in our company’s history,” said Johnny Morris, founder and lead outfitter, and Bryan Niketh, President of Manufacturing at White River Marine Group. “We are deeply committed to Hobie and supporting its dealer network as we embark on a very bright future together.”

Morris said the agreement unites two of the most storied and well respected watercraft manufacturers in the world.

“For a combined 128 years Johnny Morris and Hobie Alter have been making dreams come true on the water, shaping unique lifestyles with extraordinary high quality, valued-based products that are distributed around the world,” said Bass Pro.

The group adds that Hobie’s industry-leading global dealer network is now supported with the ‘unmatched’ marketing resources of Bass Pro Shops. “White River Marine Group’s extensive dealer network has long been the cornerstone of its success, built on decades of strong relationships and unwavering support.

“Dealers have been trusted partners since the company’s earliest days, helping deliver the highest quality boats and customer service to communities across the country and around the world. With a shared commitment to excellence, White River Marine Group continues to invest in its dealers, providing the tools, resources and unmatched marketing support they need to grow their businesses and ensure customers create happy on-the-water experiences for generations to come.”

Hobie Alter launched his company in 1950 from his parents’ garage. Over the past  75 years the late Alter built a reputation for his relentless focus on quality and innovation, holding more than 20 patents that showcase his commitment to advancing watercraft design.