Ron Kiffmeyer has earned a distinguished reputation in Minnesota's fishing community through decades of service, innovation, and unwavering commitment to conservation and angler safety.  Based in Brainerd and Crosslake, Ron has been a trusted name in the tackle industry, recognized for promoting responsible practeces and steering change at both the grassroots and corporate levels.

  

As a long-time consultant and sales manager for iconic Minnesota brands, most notably Lindy Fishing Tackle, Ron has been instrumental in shaping product strategies that balance performance with environmental responsibiity.  

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In 2024, Lindy became the first major tackle manufacturer to sign the National Loon Center's "Loons & Lakes Legacy Pledge," committing to eliminate lead from its product line by 2027.  Ron publicly affirmed this milestons, stating, "We have made the commitment to go 100% lead-free because we can and it is the right thing to do, period."

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His leadership in this initiative marked a pivotal movement in fishing tackle ethics, driving meaningful industr-wide change toward non-toxic alternatives.  

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Ron's work extends beyone product development into environmental stewardship.  By advocating for lead-free tackle and supporting loon-safe fishing prqactices, he has helped protect Minnesota's lakes, wilddlife, and future generations of anglers.  His public-facing role in the Governor's 2025 fishing opener highlighted the growing urgency of tackling lead poisoning in loons, a key conservation issue for the state.

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Peers and industry colleagues describe Ron as a mentor and steadying presence in the fishing world  He is known for his depth of experience, business acumen, and ability to bring people together, from tackle designers to boating media and outdoor event organizers.  

While Ron's influence is often behind the scenes, his commitment to ethical innovation, community engagement, and ecological protection has delivered tangilbe progress for both anglers and wildlife in Minnesota and beyond.