Release Boatworks, the New Jersey-based semi-custom sportfish manufacturer known for combining classic style with cutting edge technology and state-of-the-art materials, has announced the acquisition of Florida-based custom sportfish manufacturer Gamefisherman.
In their new capacity, Gamefisherman will offer a line of custom sportfishing boats, ranging from entry-level charter vessels to Gamefisherman’s Gold Series line of high-end, fully custom vessels. Release Boatworks will continue to offer their line of highly popular and highly fishable semi-custom boats.
“About five years ago, we got together with the Gamefisherman folks to explore the possibility of establishing a mutually beneficial relationship,” said Jim Turner, Director of Release Boatworks. “Since both brands share the same Naval Architect, Erwin Gerards, it seemed like a perfect fit. As the idea evolved, our companies became more intertwined, and it seemed clear to us that joining forces was inevitable. Plus, Gamefisherman needed more room to keep up with demand, and Release had just purchased an additional 47 acres on the Egg Harbor River to accommodate expansion. This acquisition promises to redefine the landscape of custom boat building.”
The Gamefisherman brand is synonymous with unparalleled craftsmanship and heritage and holds immense significance in terms of identity and reputation within the fishing industry. That heritage represents not just the company’s history, but also its values, craftsmanship, and dedication to excellence, passed down through generations. It symbolizes the trust and confidence clients place in them, knowing that their legacy of building quality vessels, which began with Mike Matlack and remains true to his vision, stands behind every project they undertake.
Brand heritage is the cornerstone of that credibility, distinguishing Gamefisherman from competitors and reinforcing the company’s commitment to superior design, construction, and customer satisfaction. It serves as a testament to the expertise and enduring legacy exemplified by the brand in the maritime world, instilling pride in both its team and their clientele as they continue to push the boundaries of innovation and craftsmanship in custom boat building.
“This strategic move represents a fusion of tradition and innovation, where the esteemed heritage and reputation of Gamefisherman will seamlessly blend with the dynamic spirit and forward-thinking approach of Release Boatworks, ushering in a new era of semi-custom boat building that embodies the best of both worlds,” Turner continued. “The semi-custom approach of Release Boatworks will unlock a new realm of possibilities, allowing for personalized touches and configurations tailored to your specific needs and preferences. This innovative approach will not only ensure a comparable level of quality to Gamefisherman’s custom line but will also result in shorter construction times and more cost-effective options for the customer.”
This acquisition brings together decades of expertise under one roof. The renowned craftsmanship and attention to detail that has defined Gamefisherman’s custom line of boats will now be infused into the semi-custom offerings of Release Boatworks as well, ensuring a level of quality and refinement that is second to none. Moreover, the heritage and reputation of Gamefisherman will serve as a beacon of trust and assurance for anglers exploring the offerings of Release Boatworks. Anglers who have long revered Gamefisherman’s commitment to excellence can approach Release Boatworks with the same confidence, knowing that both brand’s principles of quality and performance are ingrained in every vessel.
