Berkley and Abu Garcia have signed on as premier sponsors of the Bassmaster Classic and other bass fishing series and events, B.A.S.S. announced today.
Berkley is renewing its premier sponsorship, and Abu Garcia has joined the lineup of top-tier B.A.S.S. sponsors, said Bruce Akin, B.A.S.S. CEO.
“These two iconic brands are highly respected by our more than 500,000 B.A.S.S. members as well as the millions of fans who follow Bassmaster events in person, online at Bassmaster.com and on ESPN2,” Akin said. “Their sponsorship of the most prestigious bass fishing events in the world makes the statement that Berkley and Abu Garcia are dedicated to serving the most demanding anglers in the sport.”
Berkley has been a premier sponsor of B.A.S.S. events since 2002. Abu Garcia, founded in 1921 in Sweden, is stepping up to the premier sponsorship level for the first time this year.
“Abu Garcia and Berkley are thrilled to continue this relationship with B.A.S.S.,” said Neil Eibeler, CEO of Pure Fishing. “We are always looking for ways to connect with passionate anglers, and this partnership allows us that opportunity. We are committed to fostering growth in the sport of fishing and working with such a renowned organization like B.A.S.S. is a great way for us to do that.”
Berkley also will be title sponsor of the Bassmaster Elite tournament on Kentucky Lake at Paris, Tenn., in May, while Abu Garcia will be presenting sponsor of that event. In addition, Berkley will again sponsor the Berkley Big Bass Award for the heaviest bass weighed in during the Bassmaster Classic. The agreement also entitles Berkley and Abu Garcia to exhibit space at Classic and Elite Series expos and similar venues at each of the tournaments.
