Huge news in the fly fishing gear front! Simms Fishing Products sold for $192.5 Million to Vista Outdoor Inc. on July 27, 2022.
Simms Fishing Products, headquartered in Bozeman, Montana, was founded in 1980 and later acquired in 1993 by K.C. Walsh, its current Executive Chairman. Walsh’s initial vision for Simms was to create the most beloved brand in sport fishing that could marry his passion for fishing with his commitment to fisheries conservation. The new owners, Vista Outdoor Inc. is the parent company of 39 renowned brands that design, manufacture and market sporting and outdoor products to consumers around the globe.
According to Chris Metz, Vista Outdoor CEO, “Simms is the perfect fit for our diversified portfolio of leading, iconic outdoor brands.”
According to KBZK of Bozeman, current Simms Chief Executive Officer Casey Sheahan will continue to lead day-to-day operations of Simms, and K.C. Walsh will continue as a strategic advisor and conservation and government affairs advocate. The current Simms management team and existing employee base also will remain in place. Simms will be part of Vista Outdoor’s Outdoor Products segment and will be included in the new Outdoor Products Company upon the completion of the previously announced separation.
