White River Marine Group — the marine manufacturing arm of Bass Pro Shops — said its newly expanded plant is now operational, with the first Bass Buggy pontoons rolling off the assembly line earlier this month.
The Bolivar, Miss., facility is one part of an expansion plan that looks to double the production output of Tracker’s in-demand Sun Tracker pontoon line.
“We are thrilled to be able to continue to showcase the skill and craftsmanship of our amazing team members right here in the Ozarks — America’s heartland,” said Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris in a statement.
White River said it will create up to 250 full-time jobs when the facility reaches full production in summer.
“This expansion speaks to the high quality of our boats and the ongoing pursuit of excellence from our entire team,” said Bolivar’s VP of plant operations Craig Bach.
The Sun Tracker line dates back to 1983, with the Bolivar plant first opening its doors in 1988. Since that time, more Sun Tracker pontoons have sold than any other brand, according to White River.
White River Marine president Scott Ernest added: “Our founder Johnny Morris revolutionized the boating industry…by introducing the world’s first professionally rigged and nationally marketed boat, motor and trailer packages…It’s exciting to see this proud legacy carry on with this amazing new plant.”
