The fishing tackle industry in the Nordics features a mix of traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation. Companies range from small artisan manufacturers to large-scale distributors, all dedicated to producing a variety of fishing gear, including rods, reels, and bait. The region is seeing a growing trend towards sustainability, with many brands prioritizing eco-friendly practices and materials. Digital advancements are also reshaping how products are marketed and sold, as e-commerce continues to thrive. As consumer interest in outdoor recreation grows, particularly in fishing tourism, the industry is poised for increased investment and continued evolution.

This list features a group of notable investors in the fishing tackle industry, with a mix of venture capital and private equity firms. They come from varied locations, such as Stockholm and Oslo, and their sizes range from small teams to corporate giants. Established between 1974 and 2015, these firms have varied investment strategies, with many making multiple deals in 2024. They collectively showcase a commitment to growing businesses by supporting innovative companies within the fishing tackle sector.

Top 17 Fishing Tackle Investors in the Nordics

1. Verdane

• Website: verdane.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Oslo, Oslo, Norway
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 7
• LinkedIn: verdane-capital

Verdane is a private equity investment firm based in Oslo, Norway, founded in 1985. The firm specializes in growth equity investments in technology-enabled companies, providing capital and hands-on support to help businesses scale. Verdane focuses on digitalization and decarbonization trends, primarily targeting technology companies looking to enhance their market position and operational efficiency. Notably, Verdane has made significant investments in the fishing tackle industry, including the acquisition of O Mustad & Son, a prominent player in fishing tackle, and Sunkost from Ard Group in 2017. They also acquired Silva, a provider of niche outdoor sports equipment, which may encompass fishing-related products. Furthermore, their investment in Maskinklippet.se, aimed at creating a leading Nordic niche e-tailer in forestry, gardening, hunting, and outdoor products, suggests a broader interest in outdoor activities that could include fishing tackle.

2. Almi

• Website: almi.se
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 7
• LinkedIn: almi-ab

Almi AB is a financial services company based in Stockholm, Sweden, that specializes in providing loans, risk capital, and business development support to small and medium-sized enterprises. Founded in 1994, Almi aims to enhance the growth and competitiveness of these businesses by offering tailored financial solutions and guidance. Notably, Almi has invested in Fishbrain, a leading social network and app for anglers, participating in both a Seed Round in 2013 and a Series B round in 2017, raising a total of $3.7 million. This involvement highlights Almi's interest in the fishing tackle industry, alongside other investments in various sectors such as fashion and outdoor equipment.

3. Altor Equity Partners

• Website: altor.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 6
• LinkedIn: altor

Altor Equity Partners is a private equity investment management firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 2003. The firm focuses on enhancing operational efficiency and sustainable growth for its partners through tailored investment strategies and digital transformation solutions. Altor has been involved in several notable transactions, including the acquisition of Navico, a key player in marine electronics, which is directly relevant to the fishing tackle industry. They also invested in XXL Sport & Villmark, a retailer that provides a range of outdoor and sporting goods, including fishing equipment. Additionally, Altor's acquisition of CCM Hockey and Rossignol showcases their diverse investment strategy across various consumer products, but their specific engagements in the fishing and marine sectors highlight their potential relevance to fishing tackle investments.

4. Accent Equity

• Website: accentequity.se
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 4
• LinkedIn: accent-equity-partners-ab

Accent Equity is a private equity firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. The firm specializes in investments in private Nordic companies, focusing on enhancing the value of its portfolio through strategic management and investment. Accent Equity aims to create sustainable growth and superior returns for its clientele across various sectors. Notably, they have been involved in several acquisitions, including HOOKS HASTSPORT, which operates in the fishing tackle industry, showcasing their engagement in this market. Other transactions include the acquisitions of Brimer and Unisport, as well as Eco Log Sweden and Mont Blanc, indicating a diverse investment strategy across multiple sectors.

5. FSN Capital Partners

• Website: fsncapital.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Oslo, Oslo, Norway
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: fsn-capital

FSN Capital Partners is a private equity investment firm based in Oslo, Norway, founded in 1999. The firm specializes in managing investments across various sectors, including services, green transition, industrials, and technology, with a focus on driving growth and transformation in its portfolio companies. Notably, FSN Capital has been involved in significant transactions such as the acquisition of Active Brands AS in 2017, a Norwegian supplier of premium sporting goods brands, which may include fishing tackle products. This acquisition aimed to enhance Active Brands' position in the Nordics and accelerate its international growth. Additionally, FSN Capital's earlier acquisition of Morenot in 2018 further demonstrates their active investment strategy. While their primary focus is not solely on fishing tackle, their involvement in the sporting goods sector positions them as a potential investor in related industries.

6. Norvestor

• Website: norvestor.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Oslo, Oslo, Norway
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn: norvestor-equity-as

Norvestor is a private equity firm based in Oslo, Norway, founded in 1989. The firm specializes in investment management and advisory services, focusing on partnering with medium-sized Nordic businesses to support their growth and development. Norvestor emphasizes sustainability and invests across various sectors, including IT services and property maintenance. Notably, they have made significant investments in the fishing industry, including the acquisition of Aalesundfisk in 1996, which highlights their involvement in the fishing sector. Other transactions include acquisitions in diverse industries, such as Future Production AS and PG Group, but their engagement with Aalesundfisk underscores their relevance to the fishing tackle market.

7. Marel

• Website: marel.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Garðabær, Garðabær, Iceland
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: marel

Marel is a corporate investor based in Garðabær, Iceland, founded in 1983. The company specializes in providing advanced food processing equipment and solutions for various sectors, including poultry, meat, fish, and prepared foods. Marel's commitment to innovation and automation has positioned them as a leader in the food processing industry. Notably, Marel has made significant investments in the fishing sector, including the acquisition of a 50 percent stake in Curio, a whitefish processing equipment manufacturer, which enhances their capabilities in fish processing. Additionally, their acquisition of Wenger Manufacturing LLC for USD 540 million, which focuses on pet food, plant-based proteins, and aqua feed, further solidifies their presence in the fishing and aquaculture industries. These strategic acquisitions reflect Marel's dedication to expanding their offerings and improving efficiency in food processing, particularly in the fish sector.

8. AKVA group

• Website: akvagroup.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Norway
• Founded year: 1974
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn: akva-group-asa

AKVA group is a corporate investor based in Norway, founded in 1974, with a workforce of 1001-5000 employees. The company specializes in aquaculture technology and services, providing comprehensive solutions for both sea-based and land-based fish farming. Their offerings include infrastructure, feeding systems, and advisory services aimed at enhancing sustainability and efficiency for fish farmers. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Plastsveis in 2013 for $3,580,199, which likely expanded their product offerings in the aquaculture space. In 2016, they acquired Sperre AS, further strengthening their position in the industry. Most recently, in 2023, AKVA group acquired a 51% stake in Submerged AS, with plans to increase this stake by 2028, emphasizing their commitment to advancing digital solutions in precision fish farming. These transactions reflect AKVA group's active role in the fishing tackle industry, making them a relevant investor in this sector.

9. Nalka

• Website: nalka.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn: nalka

Nalka is a private equity investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 2015. The firm focuses on developing independent companies in the Nordic and DACH regions, providing investment management and strategic support to small- and medium-sized businesses. Nalka emphasizes sustainable growth and responsible ownership in its investment approach. Notably, Nalka has been involved in several acquisitions, including HOOKS HASTSPORT, a company in the fishing tackle industry, acquired on March 20, 2014. This acquisition highlights Nalka's engagement in the fishing tackle sector, alongside other investments such as Open Air Group and Barnas Hus, which showcase their diverse portfolio and commitment to fostering growth in various industries.

10. Rite Ventures

• Website: riteventures.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: rite-ventures

Rite Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 2007. The firm specializes in transforming early growth companies into midmarket leaders, primarily in the IT-services, Software as a Service, and e-commerce sectors. They provide both capital and strategic support to entrepreneurs to help them scale their businesses effectively. Notably, Rite Ventures has invested in SÖDER SPORTFISKE AB, a company in the fishing tackle industry, which highlights their engagement in this sector. Additionally, they have been involved in other ventures such as Verkkokauppa.com, further showcasing their diverse investment portfolio.

11. Ferd AS

• Website: ferd.no
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Oslo, Oslo, Norway
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ferd-as

Ferd AS is a private equity investment company based in Oslo, Norway, founded in 1998. The firm focuses on creating lasting value through various business activities, including investment management, real estate development, and support for social entrepreneurs. Ferd AS has been involved in several notable transactions, including the acquisition of a stake in Swix Sport in 2010, which is relevant to the fishing tackle industry as it operates within the broader sporting goods market. In 2023, Ferd acquired a 25 percent stake in General Oceans, an ocean technology group, which may also intersect with marine and fishing interests. Additionally, Ferd has invested in maritime technology through its involvement with Eniram, a provider of maritime emissions control, indicating a broader interest in ocean-related industries.

12. CapMan

• Website: capman.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 4
• LinkedIn: capman

CapMan Oyj is an investment management firm based in Helsinki, Finland, specializing in private equity, real estate, infrastructure, and natural capital investments. Founded in 1989, CapMan serves institutional investors by providing access to diverse investment strategies aimed at achieving sustainable returns. Notably, CapMan has made significant investments in the aquaculture sector, including a recent investment in Napier AS, the largest salmon harvest vessel operator in Norway, which plays a critical role in the transportation infrastructure of the aquaculture industry. Additionally, CapMan acquired a majority stake in Marinetek Group, a company that may contribute to marine infrastructure, further linking them to the fishing and aquaculture sectors. These transactions highlight CapMan's engagement with industries that intersect with fishing, making them a relevant player in the fishing tackle investment landscape.

13. Finnish Business Angels Network (FiBAN)

• Website: fiban.org
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn: fibanorg

The Finnish Business Angels Network (FiBAN) is a not-for-profit organization founded in 2010, based in Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland. It connects private investors with startups seeking funding, offering membership services, training programs for angel investors, and resources to enhance the startup ecosystem in Finland. In 2025, FiBAN was involved in a significant transaction with Norolan Artisanlures, which raised $629,607 in a venture round. This investment highlights FiBAN's engagement in the fishing tackle industry, showcasing their commitment to supporting innovative startups in this niche market.

14. Thule Group

• Website: thulegroup.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Sweden
• Founded year: 1942
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn: thule

Thule Group AB is a corporate investor based in Sweden, founded in 1942, specializing in outdoor and transportation products. The company develops a range of solutions including cargo carriers, roof racks, and bags designed for active families and outdoor enthusiasts. With a focus on quality and sustainability, Thule Group aims to simplify the logistics of outdoor activities for its customers. Notably, Thule Group has made strategic acquisitions to enhance its portfolio in the outdoor adventure market. In December 2019, they acquired Denver Outfitters, a company that specializes in roof rack-mounted fly fishing rod vaults, which aligns with their strategy to expand into the fishing tackle segment. This acquisition highlights Thule's commitment to serving the needs of fishing enthusiasts and reinforces their position as a player in the fishing tackle industry.

15. Industrifonden

• Website: industrifonden.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 9
• LinkedIn: industrifonden

Industrifonden is a venture capital fund based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1979. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage companies, particularly in the fields of Deep Tech, Life Science, and Transformative Tech. They provide financial support and strategic guidance to startups, helping them scale their innovative solutions. Notably, Industrifonden has been actively involved in the fishing tackle industry through multiple investments in Fishbrain, a Stockholm-based sports fishing app. They led a $6 million funding round for Fishbrain in August 2023, participated in a $13.5 million Series B funding round in March 2018, and were involved in earlier funding rounds as well, including a Series A and a Series B in 2015 and 2017, respectively. These transactions highlight Industrifonden's commitment to supporting innovation within the fishing tackle sector, particularly through technology-driven solutions.

16. Edastra Group

• Website: edastra.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: edastra-group

Edastra Group is a private equity investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 2008. The firm specializes in investing in differentiated entrepreneurial companies that tackle significant societal challenges. They provide both capital and strategic support to businesses across various sectors, including technology and logistics. Notably, Edastra Group participated in a Series A funding round for Fishbrain, raising $8 million on July 22, 2015. Fishbrain is a social network and mobile app for anglers, which positions it firmly within the fishing tackle industry. This investment highlights Edastra's engagement with the fishing sector, showcasing their willingness to support companies that cater to fishing enthusiasts and tackle-related products.

17. Adelis Equity Partners

• Website: adelisequity.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn: adelis-equity-partners

Adelis Equity Partners is a private equity firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 2012. The firm focuses on growing businesses in the Nordic region and provides investment management and strategic consulting services across various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and business services. Notably, Adelis has made significant investments in the sports retail sector, acquiring INTERSPORT Sverige AB and a 70% stake in Intersport Sweden in 2015. These acquisitions position Adelis within the sporting goods market, which may include fishing tackle as part of their broader retail offerings, indicating their potential interest in the fishing tackle industry.

Fishing Tackle Insights: Key Investors in the Nordics

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