Sailfish Boats Founder Has Died

May 26, 2026

Sailfish Boats is sad to share the news, its founder, Paul Hoppes. Jr., passed away on Tuesday, May 12th.

Without any marine experience, in 1986, with his entrepreneurial spirit and larger than life presence, Paul set out to build a fishing boat brand that stood for quality, value and fishability. Mission accomplished! Paul was actively involved in the day-to-day operations, building the company from the ground up, through to his retirement in 2020.

Paul’s passion, determination, and hands-on approach has been instrumental in Sailfish’s 40-years carried out through numerous dealers, thousands of Sailfish owners and the hundreds of employees he touched and influenced throughout his time.

Paul is survived by his wife, Collene, daughters April and Crystal and son, Paul III and granddaughters Mirabella and Lola.

Paul’s obituary: https://www.lifesongfunerals.com/obituaries/paul-hoppes/obituary

ABOUT SAILFISH BOATS

Sailfish Boats, based in Cairo, Georgia, has been building Practical, Purposeful, and Powerful boats for almost 40-years. Known for delivering exceptional inshore and offshore fishing platforms that are equally family-friendly, Sailfish designs and manufactures a full range of center console and dual console boats from 23 to 36 feet. For more information, visit www.sailfishboats.com.

Related Posts

Good Advice that You Can Share – Falling Overboard Recovery Steps

By John Gullick
 
An accident that occurs with surprising frequency to passengers and crew is falling. The chance of this happening can be greatly reduced if precautions are taken, such as wearing non-skid shoes that lace up and wearing appropriate clothing that does not impede movement. Those on board should make sure they have a sound footing and a good handhold at all times. Here is an old saying to remember: “Sailors were given two hands, one for the ship and one for themselves.” 

Read More

Changing Scene

Need to Catch up on News This Week?

Every Tuesday we publish a fresh Digest with informative articles pertaining to the Canadian boating and marine industry. Stay up to date with the latest products, research and industry developments.

Missed an Issue of Boating Industry Canada News Week? If you’re looking for a specific issue, or simply want to catch up on previous issues, check out our Boating Industry Canada News Week Archives.

Not signed up for News Week? Subscribe here.

Just Launched

Lund Boats Introduces New 2027 HG Pro Series, Combining Hardtop Protection with Big-Water Capability 

All-new 220 HG Pro and 240 HG Pro models deliver rugged heavy-gauge construction, enclosed hardtop comfort and serious fishing functionality for demanding open-water anglers. 

Lund Boats has unveiled the all-new Model Year 2027 HG Pro Series, a purpose-built heavy-gauge aluminum platform designed for anglers who pursue big-water fisheries in changing conditions. 

Read More

JBL Debuts the Flip 7 Magnet for Secure Portable Sound on the Water and Beyond

JBL has announced the Flip 7 Magnet, a flexible mounting solution that brings portable JBL Pro Sound to boats, golf carts, RVs, powersports, vehicles and more. The purpose-built magnetic accessory securely holds the best-selling JBL Flip 7 on compatible metal surfaces, while an included receiver plate extends placement to nonmagnetic surfaces. 

Read More

People