MIAMI, FLA., June 3, 2019–Mustad announced today that it has acquired TUF-Line (https://tuf-line.com/), the recreational fishing line business of Western Filament, the Grand Junction, Colorado-based provider of synthetic fiber materials, such as polyester, nylon and Kevlar®. TUF-Line represents an important acquisition for Mustad, as it adds a premium-branded fishing line offering for competitive and recreational angling.

“We are thrilled to be adding both the TUF-Line brand and its range of products to our portfolio,” said Jordan Davis, President of O. Mustad & Son Americas. “Adding TUF to the O. Mustad & Son family is a key strategic step in expanding our ability to serve our customers in the Americas, as well as in over 160 countries where Mustad products are currently sold.”

Through this acquisition, Mustad forges a strategic partnership with TUF-Line with the goal of growing the brand into a global fishing-line solution. Mustad is acquiring the TUF-Line brand and assuming the marketing, product development and distribution responsibilities, while Western Filament will maintain its manufacturing role through a multi-year supplier agreement.

“We are very excited to announce our partnership with Mustad to develop and grow TUF-Line fishing lines,” stated Rex Nelson, President of Western Filament. “We are thrilled to be working with a company that has such a rich history and has been an industry leader for so many years. Through Mustad’s leadership, marketing, and expertise of the fishing tackle industry, we are confident that TUF-Line will help Mustad exceed their goals while reaching its true potential as a globally recognized brand.”

“It’s our mission to create a global multi-brand company within the fishing tackle industry, all the while focusing on innovation, employee and customer satisfaction, and sustainability. We believe partnering with and acquiring strong brands like TUF-Line is paramount to our success,” added Davis.

Current TUF-Line dealers are urged to continue to place orders and expect shipments from Western Filament for TUF-Line products on behalf of Mustad for the next 30 days. Communications regarding the transition of front- and back-office operations will be sent within the coming days.

 

About Mustad

Every year since 1877, more anglers worldwide put their trust in Mustad than any other brand to catch their fish of a lifetime. Sold in over 160 countries, Mustad Hooks are the world’s best-selling brand and regarded for strength, sharpness, and quality. Every Mustad Fish Hook is made from wire drawn at the Mustad Factory, in operation for over 180 years in the town of Gjovik, Norway. This means Mustad is the only company in the world that controls all phases of fish hook production from wire to finish. Mustad brands include UltraPoint Hooks, Mustad Classic Hooks, Signature Fly Hooks, Terminal Tackle, Tools, and Line including newly acquired TUF-Line. Mustad’s portfolio of legendary hook styles include KVD Elite Series Treble Hooks, Slow Death Hooks, Demon Perfect Circle Hooks, and the ground breaking Grip-Pin Series.