Lew's announced that Dennis Berhorst of Holt Summit, Mo. is the first winner of the company's Speed Fishing Angler of the Year title, and also that it will be offering the awards incentive program again for 2016.
Berhorst earned the inaugural distinction by accumulating the highest number of points through participation in BFL tournaments, amassing 1,355 points competing in the league's Ozark Division. The accomplishment earned him a $1,000 gift certificate redeemable for his choice of Lew's rods, reels and accessories.
Bryan Barnard (Harrison, Ark.; Arkie Division) finished 2nd with 1,320 points and was awarded a Lew's Speed Spool and Speed Stick baitcast combo. Michael Smith (Piedmont, S.C.; South Carolina Division) was 3rd with 1,303 points and won a Speed Spool baitcast reel.
The membership-based Lew's Speed Fishing loyalty program was launched in early 2015 as a way for participating anglers to earn rewards above and beyond the tournaments' prizes.
The program applies to all BFL divisions and tournaments held across the U.S. and provides reward opportunities for the highest member finishing in the Top 20. To be eligible, anglers must be a 2016 Speed Fishing Awards member and meet all program criteria, including ownership of Lew's rods and reels manufactured since 2013. The $29.95 annual membership fee includes a Lew's cap and decals.
Prize choices for Speed Fishing members who win a BFL tournament are $250 cash or a $500 Lew's gift certificate. Otherwise, the highest-finishing member making any BFL Top 20 has the choice of $125 cash or a $250 Lew's gift certificate.
Online enrollment for the 2016 program is open now at Lews.com. Refer to the Angler Resources section and then click on Rewards Program.
