BOTE
AcquiredOverview
BOTE is a watersports brand specializing in stand-up paddle boards, inflatable kayaks, floating dock systems, and fishing-specific watercraft. Founded in 2008, the company has established itself through technical innovation, including proprietary carbon/Innegra weave construction and the industry's first fishing-specific stand-up board. The brand serves recreational paddlers, racers, surfers, and anglers across the United States.
History
BOTE was founded in 2008 by Corey Cooper and is based in the Florida panhandle. The company gained recognition for designing the world's first fishing-specific stand-up paddle board and developing proprietary carbon composite materials. Originally a portfolio company of Prairie Capital, LP, BOTE was acquired in 2024 by Kent Water Sports Holdings, LLC, a portfolio company of Seawall Capital, LLC. The acquisition marked a transition from independent operation to part of a larger watersports holding company.
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Stand-Up Paddle Boards | Performance and fishing-focused boards with carbon composite construction | $800 - $2,500 |
| Inflatable Kayaks | Portable multi-person kayaks for recreation and fishing | $600 - $1,800 |
| Floating Dock Systems | Modular docking and platform solutions | $2,000 - $8,000 |
| Fishing Accessories | Specialized gear and mounting systems for paddle boards | $50 - $500 |
Manufacturing
Manufacturing details are not specified in available sources. The company emphasizes proprietary design and engineering capabilities but does not disclose whether production is in-house or outsourced.
Notable Products
- Fishing-Specific Stand-Up Paddle Board - Industry's first paddle board designed specifically for fishing with integrated rod holders and stability features
- Carbon/Innegra Composite Boards - Proprietary weave construction providing enhanced durability and performance
- Inflatable Kayak Line - Portable kayaks expanding the brand beyond paddle boards into multi-person watercraft
Reputation
BOTE is recognized within the watersports community for technical innovation and product specialization, particularly in fishing-oriented paddle boards. The brand has built credibility through industry-leading designs and a loyal customer base of racers, surfers, and anglers. The company positions itself as a lifestyle brand rather than a commodity manufacturer, though specific critical perspectives from professionals are not documented in available sources.
Sources (6)
- https://rocketreach.co/bote-profile_b4428ff2fa22dfbd
- https://www.boteboard.com/pages/destin-fl
- https://www.bbb.org/us/fl/fort-walton-beach/profile/boats/bote-llc-0683-90038995/addressId/28631
- https://www.boteboard.com/pages/who-we-are
- https://hl.com/about-us/transactions/houlihan-lokey-advises-bote/
- https://www.dnb.com/business-directory/company-profiles.bote_paddle_boards.6dd282d3f5650860ed1c85861006d726.html