GSM Outdoors has acquired Northland Fishing Tackle. GSM said Northland is known as an “authentic multi-species brand that produces premium-quality jigs, live bait rigs, spinnerbaits, and spoons for a variety of freshwater fish.”
Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
The Northland deal is the third since Platinum Equity closed its acquisition of GSM Outdoors from Gridiron Capital in early October. GSM acquired Roboworm and K&E Tackle in early October. Gridiron Capital originally acquired GSM in 2020.
“We couldn’t wait to add Northland to our growing lineup of fishing brands,” said Eddie Castro, CEO of GSM Outdoors. “Northland has built a stellar reputation over the course of nearly 50 years, in large part due to their commitment to producing quality lures designed by fishermen, for fishermen. We look forward to carrying on the Northland brand with the same commitment to quality and innovation that began with jigs designed and poured by founder John Peterson during his early days as a fishing guide and built it into the company it is today.”
John Peterson, the founder of Northland Fishing Tackle and a member of the National & Minnesota Fishing Hall of Fame, said, “After building Northland with a team of dedicated family, friends, prostaffers, and coworkers, I am pleased to see GSM acquire the company and help us realize the full potential of Northland Fishing with their capital base and large-scale resources.”
“Northland is the perfect fit for our strategy of acquiring iconic brands that are meaningful to both anglers and retailers,” said Crispin Powley, SVP Fishing, GSM Outdoors. “Historically, no other brand has been more focused on or meant more to the northern and midwestern regions and the needs of their anglers than Northland. We are extremely excited and honored to steward this incredible brand, to preserve its incredible history, and to add value to its product-rich offerings.”
William Hood & Company, LLC served as the exclusive financial advisor for Northland Fishing Tackle.
GSM Outdoors, headquartered in Irving, TX, owns over 50 outdoor brands.
Image courtesy Northland Fishing Tackle
