Hobie Purchased by Bass Pro Shops Affiliate, Production Returning to U.S.

The popular Hobie Getaway sailing catamaran

Bass Pro Shops and White River Marine Group announced today they have acquired popular watersports company Hobie.

White River Marine Group, which holds Bass Pro Shops, Tracker, Ranger, Nitro, Mako, Tahoe, and the Hatteras Yachts brands in its portfolio, will be returning Hobie's manufacturing from Mexico back to the U.S. The conglomerate currently distributes boats in 70 countries worldwide.

Hobie is widely regarded as one of the premier watersports companies in the world with a devoted fanbase and long history including products like Hobiecat sailing catamarans, pedal-drive kayaks, surfboards, stand-up paddleboards, and paddling gear. The company was founded in 1950 by Hobart "Hobie" Alter in California who designed custom surfboards in his parents garage in Laguna Beach.

Bass Pro Shops represents one of North America's premier outdoor retail brands and was founded in 1972 by Johnny Morris. His company began by selling tackle out of his father's liquor store in Springfield, Missouri but has since grown to nearly 200 retail locations across North America. The development and launch of the pre-rigged "Bass Tracker" bass fishing boat in 1978 revolutionized the recreational fishing boat market.

The new Hobie production facility is expected to be part of an expansion to White River headquarters in Lebanon, Missouri.

A Hobie Pro Angler pedal drive kayak

"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, in a press release. "We extend Hobie Dealers a warm welcome to our White River Family. We are deeply committed to Hobie and supporting its dealer network as we embark on a very bright future together!"

"We're proud to see Bass Pro Shops and White River Marine Group deepening their commitment to Missouri through this expansion," said Governor Mike Kehoe. "This investment is strengthening the community of Lebanon while contributing to Missouri's reputation as a prime destination for both business and outdoor adventure."

The purchase and acquisition was supported by the State of Missouri, the Missouri Department of Economic Development, Missouri Partnership, the City of Lebanon, and Lebanon Regional Economic Development, Inc. (Lebanon REDI).

"DED is excited to support White River Marine Group as they help Missourians prosper in Lebanon," said Michelle Hataway, Director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development. "This project was made possible by our state's economic advantages and collaboration with our incredible partners."

Both companies released a short documentary detailing the history and influence of Hobie and White River Marine Group. Check it out below:

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