North American anglers and fishing industry stakeholders across the nation are mourning the loss of one of the country’s greatest fishing icons and legends of all time . . . Ron Lindner. He was the “God Father of Modern-Day Anglers” and many of us in the fishing industry was blessed to have worked and been mentored by him over the past four decades. His infectious personality, wisdom, and vision for the future of fishing had a huge impact on recreational sport fishing, professional anglers, and us manufacturers. He played a major role in transforming the science, methods, and techniques for catching fish for generations to come.
Ron co-founded, pioneered, and spearheaded the growth of numerous major fishing entities in Brainerd, Minnesota due to his long list of professional talents. He was a savvy business entrepreneur, educator, innovator, inventor, writer, publisher, television producer, and tournament angler. He and his brother Al built a multi-media empire and cult-like following with their visionary leadership focused on education, cutting-edge fishing techniques, new product developments, and grass-roots promotional programs. These ground-breaking discoveries profoundly benefitted anglers and the growth and success of hundreds of manufacturers across the country, like Northland Fishing Tackle. Ron’s outgoing personality and willingness to discuss industry trends, issues, and new products ideas with anglers and company executives led to scores of successful product innovations nationwide.
The energy, enthusiasm, passion, and vision for the future of fishing that Ron Lindner brought to our fishing fraternity and industry were life-changing. He danced to his own music . . . always ahead of the curve and thinking “outside the box”. Ron’s faith, commitment to family and friends, and genuine love for fishing and schooling others had a huge influence on the Peterson brothers and the Northland Fishing Tackle family.
Rest in peace our beloved friend. Your fishing legacy will live on for generations to come!
John & Duane Peterson
Northland Fishing Tackle