Mallard Bay raises $4.6M to revolutionize hunting and fishing excursions online

Mallard Bay raises $4.6M to revolutionize hunting and fishing excursions online

Mallard Bay, a Houston-based startup, aims to modernize this process by offering a marketplace for consumers to find and book guided tours online, similar to booking a hotel.

• Funding Round: The startup recently announced a $4.6 million Series A funding round led by Soul Venture Partners, with participation from existing investor Acadian Capital Ventures and other angel investors.

• Founding Story: Mallard Bay's CEO and co-founder, Logan Meaux, was inspired to start the company after a disappointing hunting trip with his dad, where they discovered their hunt was double-booked, and they couldn't participate fully.

• Market Size and Industry Dynamics: Americans spent over $144.8 billion on fishing and hunting in 2022 based on a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service survey. Guided hunting and fishing excursions are a significant part of the industry, largely conducted offline with bookings and payments done over the phone or by physical checks/cash.

• Growth Metrics: Mallard Bay's platform has seen significant growth, with hunting influencer Toby Brohlin booking over $1 million in gross bookings, and the platform facilitating over $6 million in gross bookings in 2023, projected to reach $30-$35 million in 2024.

Mallard Bay emphasizes ethical hunting and fishing practices, noting that conservation is integral to the sport, ensuring future generations can enjoy wildlife responsibly.