Berkley Fishing Research Laboratory Renovation
The fishing industry is a major economic driver both in the United States and around the world. Recreational fishing generated approximately $145 billion in economic sales impacts in 2023, while global participation in recreational fishing is estimated at roughly 300 million anglers annually, according to NOAA Fisheries.
In 2026, Pure Fishing completed the renovation of the Berkley Fishing Research laboratories in Spirit Lake, Iowa, transforming the existing chemistry labs into a 1,300-square-foot integrated research and development space in partnership with Labconco. For decades, Berkley scientists have combined chemistry, biology, and materials science to develop innovative fishing products that help anglers catch more fish. Many of Berkley's most recognizable products, including PowerBait®, Gulp!®, and MaxScent®, were developed through research conducted in Spirit Lake.
Spirit Lake has been the home of Berkley innovation since founder Berkley Bedell launched the company there in 1937. The expanded laboratory continues with that legacy by providing researchers with modern tools and infrastructure to explore new technologies and product concepts.
The new facility reinforces Berkley's long-standing commitment to science-driven innovation embodied by its slogan, "Your Fish. Our Science." Designed to support current and future product development programs, including the Lab Series™ platform, the renovated space features four new laboratory fume hoods with dedicated exhaust blowers, a pass-through laboratory workspace that enables scientists to efficiently conduct chemical and biological research, and a dedicated analytical testing laboratory for product evaluation and validation.
Key Benefits
The upgraded laboratory environment allows researchers to accelerate formulation, testing and validation activities while maintaining the rigorous scientific standards that have defined Berkley product development for generations. By bringing chemistry, biology and analytical capabilities together in a modern integrated workspace, the facility promotes greater collaboration and efficiency throughout the research process.
By expanding research capabilities at its historic Spirit Lake headquarters, Berkley is investing in the next generation of fishing innovation for millions of anglers worldwide. For Labconco, the project demonstrates how modern laboratory infrastructure can help organizations transform research environments into collaborative spaces that support innovation, efficiency, and long-term growth.
