Open Water Brands announced that Chris Pardue has joined the company, which owns several saltwater-fishing brands, as a managing partner.
In his new role, Pardue joins the company’s leadership team and will focus on strengthening manufacturing partnerships, product development, operations, and supporting the continued growth of its brand portfolio.
Open Water Brands reported that Pardue “brings over 40 years of experience in the outdoor sporting goods industry, spanning retail management, product development and global sourcing.”
Formed in November 2025 by an investor group led by Big Rock Sports Chairman Adrian Holler and Crystal Ridge Partners’ Jack Baron, Open Water Brands includes Clarkspoon, Sea Striker, Star Rods, Got-Cha, Calcutta, Billfisher, Krok, Beach Runner, Contour, and Nungesser.
Graig Zurn, former merchandise manager at Big Rock Sports, and Christian Bedsworth, a former global sourcing manager at Big Rock Sports, run day-to-day operations as managing partners for Open Water Brands.
“We’re pleased to welcome Chris as managing partner at Open Water Brands,” said Bedsworth. “Chris brings decades of fishing-industry experience and a clear focus on building brands anglers trust as we continue to expand.”
“Chris is a highly respected leader with deep industry knowledge and a strong strategic mindset,” said Zurn. “His experience and vision make him an outstanding addition to our leadership team and will play a key role in supporting the continued growth of Open Water Brands.”
“I am thrilled to join the Open Water Brands team and continue building upon their family of brands’ rich history in the fishing tackle industry,” Pardue said.
Bedsworth also announced the appointment of Trey Tinsley as director of business operations.
Image courtesy Open Water Brands/Billfisher
