May 30, 2025
Stanford, Ky. – Pitman Creek Wholesale LLC, the nation’s leading independently owned fishing tackle distributor has entered into an agreement to purchase Sports Specialists of Milwaukee, Inc. The date of combined operations will be June 23, 2025.
Founded in 1972, Sports Specialists has built a strong reputation in the fishing tackle industry under the ownership of Tom and Susan Ducrest. They are known for their reliable service and solid relationships with fishing tackle retailers and manufacturers.
James Coffey, President/Owner of Pitman Creek Wholesale LLC said, “The acquisition of Sports Specialists brings together two companies with very similar cultures and histories. As Tom and Susan desire to spend more time with their children and grandchildren, it is an enormous opportunity for Pitman Creek to expand our geographical coverage. I am most excited about adding the Sports Specialist team and bringing our industry-best shipping and data analytics to their customers. The combined, expanded product assortment will be a huge benefit for our customers. It is a win for everyone involved: our customers, our vendors and our employees.”
This acquisition expands Pitman Creek Wholesale’s operations in the Midwest and Great Lakes, nearly doubling its presence in the region. It also marks Pitman Creek’s first acquisition since 2000. The acquisition of Sports Specialists reflects the company’s focus on strategic growth and industry leadership.
“The addition of Sports Specialists reflects our commitment to smart, purposeful growth”, said Addison Coffey, Vice President of Pitman Creek Wholesale. “We have built our business by having strong partnerships with our customers and our vendors. The addition of Sports Specialist expands our product assortment and customer count in a region where fishing is a key part of the culture.”
This deal represents an exciting step in Pitman Creek Wholesale’s ongoing efforts to solidify its position as the industry’s leading fishing tackle distributor. Pitman Creek Wholesale services over 7,000 retail doors nationwide and internationally.
Pitman Creek Wholesale was founded in 1978 by Don and Marella Stephens in Somerset, Kentucky near the Lake Cumberland tributary where the company gets its name. Initially the company was a custom lure manufacturer and evolved into a full line tackle distributor. James S. Coffey purchased the company in 1993 and moved the company to Stanford, Kentucky. At that time the company primarily focused on central Kentucky tackle shops and marinas. After many years and moves, Pitman Creek is now located back in Stanford, Kentucky, and employees 125 full-time associates making them one of the largest employers in Lincoln County.