Mike Dawes
Local Partnership Acquires Westbank Anglers
Westbank Anglers, a premier Jackson Hole fly fishing company since 1985, today announced a change in ownership. Owned and operated by Baker Salsbury since 2002, Westbank Anglers will continue its tradition of local management, ownership and superior service under the leadership of industry veteran and longtime valley resident Mike Dawes.
On behalf of the ownership group, local resident and partner Brian Matthews said, “We were fortunate to have a small group of excellent investors step forward in this purchase, including Mike, who will have the leadership role in managing the business.”
“Westbank Anglers has a rich history of offering exceptional fishing experiences, not only in
Jackson but around the world,” said Dawes. “I’m excited and honored to be part of the ownership group and serve as its managing partner to keep the business rooted in the community for years to come. We look forward to preserving the legacy of the brand in its current location, while expanding offerings in the retail, outfitting, and international facets of the business as we grow.”
Salsbury enjoyed an impressive twenty-year tenure at Westbank Anglers and will work closely with the new owners to ensure a smooth transition and seamless operations moving forward. The shop will get an update and some new products, but the commitment to excellence that has defined Westbank for the past 37 years will remain. Westbank Anglers will continue to be a neighborhood fly shop, owned and operated by Jackson Hole residents and local river minded conservationists.
“I couldn’t be more pleased to be passing the torch locally to people I’ve come to know and respect over many years,” said Baker. “We had a number of opportunities as we explored a sale but what it came down to was a shared vision, spirit and passion for the business that aligned us with the new ownership group. I’m eternally grateful for the support the community has shown me over the years and excited for the opportunities that Mike and his team bring to Westbank Anglers and our valued clientele.”
Regionally, Westbank Anglers offers premier guided fly fishing adventures on the blue ribbon waters of the South Fork of the Snake River. They also service the Snake, Green and New Fork rivers, as well as Yellowstone National Park. The Westbank Anglers travel department represents premier fishing destinations and hosted trips worldwide.
Sale of the business closed December 2nd and terms of the deal will not be released. For more information on Westbank Anglers, company offerings and its world-class guides please visit https://westbankanglers.com
