American Outdoor Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: AOUT) filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Eposeidon Outdoor Adventure Inc. and KastKing Fishing Tackle Inc. in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas on April 1.

The Columbia, Missouri-based company alleges the defendants violated patent rights related to its BUBBA multi-flex interchangeable fillet knife products. American Outdoor Brands seeks injunctive relief, monetary damages, and a finding of willful infringement.

The lawsuit centers on U.S. Patent Nos. 12,285,879 and 12,441,011, which cover technology incorporated in the BUBBA knife line, including the Flex-Change locking system. American Outdoor Brands claims Eposeidon began selling KastKing Interchangeable Fillet Knife Kits without authorization.

"We filed this action because we believe KastKing has deliberately copied these patented innovations and continued selling the infringing products despite repeated notice," said Brian Murphy, president and CEO of American Outdoor Brands.

The company is requesting treble damages and attorneys' fees from Eposeidon, along with an order requiring withdrawal of infringing products from the market. Murphy noted that American Outdoor Brands has grown its patent portfolio by more than 50% over the past five years and now holds more than 400 active or pending patents.

American Outdoor Brands produces outdoor equipment under multiple brands including BUBBA, BOG, Caldwell, and Crimson Trace. The company develops products for hunting, fishing, camping, and personal security applications.