Sept. 3, 2025

Sioux Falls-based Soo Sports is becoming part of Vern Eide Marine.

The acquisition is expected to close Sept. 8, when the business will operate under the name Soo Sports at Vern Eide Marine. The plan is to consolidate locations in the coming weeks at the Vern Eide store at 4501 E. Arrowhead Parkway.

Soo Sports was founded in 1969, selling several boat and pontoon brands, snowmobiles, guns, trailers and TVs. In recent years, it has focused on fishing boats and pontoons.

The business became the first to open at 85th Street and Minnesota Avenue in 2009. In late 2020, it was purchased by Brian Tordsen, who spent more than 30 years in the financial services industry.

“Bringing our teams together means more choices, more convenience and the same hometown service people have counted on for years,” Tordsen said in a statement.

The 10 Soo Sports employees will transition with the business. Soo Sports at Vern Eide Marine will offer an expanded selection of boats and accessories, service and maintenance capabilities because of the acquisition.

“With Soo Sports joining Vern Eide Marine, we’re excited to expand our ability to serve customers across South Dakota and beyond,” said Jason Hohn, general manager of Vern Eide Marine.

“This acquisition allows us to continue the tradition of excellent service that Soo Sports has built while also bringing new opportunities, expanded inventory and the resources of Vern Eide to the community.”