A History of Lund Boat Brand, Full Documentary
Howard Lund couldn't find a quality duck boat to hunt out of, so he built one! It was 1948, and in the town of New York Mills, MN, the Lund boat brand was born.
A Legacy of Innovation: 75 Years of Lund Boats
In 1948, Howard Lund, frustrated by the lack of quality duck boats available, used skills honed by his service in the U.S. Navy during World War II and decided to build his own. This endeavor marked the birth of the Lund Boat Company.
What began as a personal project soon evolved into a full-scale boat manufacturing operation. In 1950, Lund started producing aluminum hunting boats and, shortly after, 12 and 14-foot fishing boats. With the post-war economic expansion underway, Lund Boats experienced rapid growth throughout the 1950s. The introduction of boats like the iconic Water King, Water Queen, and Water Princess solidified Lund's reputation for quality and durability.
Innovation Takes Center Stage
Lund's commitment to innovation became a driving force as the years progressed. In 1972, Lund expanded its manufacturing operations to Steinbach, Manitoba, to meet growing demand. Yet, the launch of the Mr. Pike model in 1978 marked a pivotal moment in the company's history. This 16-foot fishing boat introduced game-changing features such as casting platforms, pedestal seating, and built-in live wells. Mr. Pike transformed Lund into a producer of deluxe fishing boats designed to cater to even the most demanding angler.
Evolution of Hull Design
One of Lund's defining achievements came in 1999 with developing the IPS hull design. This groundbreaking design revolutionized aluminum boat performance, offering an unparalleled ride and handling experience. The IPS hull's reverse chime and pad design provided remarkable stability and efficiency, making waves in the marine industry. Fishermen could now chase their targets confidently, even in challenging conditions.
Meeting Changing Needs
As fishing and boating trends continued to evolve, Lund remained proactive in meeting changing needs. The introduction of the Impact and Crossover models in the early 2010s exemplified this commitment. The Impact catered to hardcore anglers, while the Crossover provided a seamless transition between fishing and recreational activities. These boats epitomized Lund's dedication to versatility and customer satisfaction.
Supporting Youth Initiatives
Lund's commitment to the future extends beyond just building boats with the company playing a pivotal role in supporting youth fishing initiatives, including high school and collegiate fishing programs. Lund's partnership with the Student Angler Tournament Trail and other organizations paved the way for the next generation of anglers, fostering a love for the sport from an early age.
Looking Ahead
With 75 years of history behind it, Lund Boats stands as a beacon of innovation, quality, and community. The company's legacy is etched in the hearts of countless anglers who have experienced the thrill of fishing from a Lund boat.
As the future unfolds, one thing is sure: Lund Boats will continue to evolve, innovate, and provide anglers with the ultimate fishing experience. Whether you're chasing walleye up north or navigating the waves of the Great Lakes, Lund boats will be there, empowering anglers to create memories that last a lifetime.
Here's to another 75 years of exceptional craftsmanship, innovation, and endless fishing adventures. Here's to the next chapter in the legacy of Lund.
