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Celebration,
Fla.
- For 40 years, BASS has been the voice of conservation, source of education and tournament venue for anglers everywhere. To mark the occasion of BASS’ 40th anniversary and to salute BASS members and their passion for the sport, BASS will host a calendar full of special events in 2008 while continuing to celebrate BASS’ accomplishments and forward-reaching impact on the sport.
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In 1967, BASS founder Ray Scott hosted the first All-American Invitational Tournament on Arkansas’ Beaver Lake, which led to the creation of BASS and its grassroots organization, the BASS Federation, one year later.
Though Scott knew there was tremendous interest in BASS, he never dreamed that the organization would grow into the industry leader it is today.
“I never concentrated on where BASS would be 10 years down the road,” Scott said. “I always figured if you took care of the anglers and the fish, they would take care of the organization. That remains true today with BASS.” |
BASS will use all of its multimedia assets to celebrate the rich tradition. In June, Bassmaster Magazine will issue a special anniversary edition, while BASS Times will include monthly stories heralding BASS’ four decades as the world’s authority on bass fishing.
On the web, www.Bassmaster.com
will provide fans with special 40th anniversary features include “In Their Own Words” audio interviews, member profiles and downloadable keepsakes. During the “40 Ways to Win” anniversary giveaway in June, there will be daily drawings for prizes.
For members and consumers, the 2008 Collector’s Edition BASS Planner is available at
www.Bassmaster.com, complete with the 40th anniversary logo and full-color pages with breathtaking fishing photos as well as ample space for scheduling, daily notations and journal entries.
Fans can also purchase 40th anniversary commemorative hats, logos and hat/lapel pins, as well as a special print of BASS founder Scott.
BASS has been at the forefront of conservation since its inception in 1968. From its “catch and release” concept and the Clean Water Act, which guaranteed quality bass habitat for generations, to advocacy efforts to enhance fishing infrastructure and maintain access to public waters, BASS has been the angler’s best friend, ally and guardian for 40 years.
“There certainly has always been a feeling of opportunity and responsibility to practice good habits with conservation, safety and integrity in our tournaments,” Scott said.
The passion for protecting fishing and resources remains today and the education of our youth on conservation issues continues with programs like the BASS Costa Del Mar scholarship opportunities.
The organization was founded based on competition as BASS created the modern fishing tournament and has made stars of the men and women who perform well on fishing’s biggest stages. The Bassmaster Classic will celebrate its 38th year in 2008, when another world champion is crowned in fishing’s most prestigious event.
“It truly is remarkable to celebrate 40 years as the worldwide leader in the industry,” said Tom Ricks, vice president and general manager of BASS. “We are proud of our rich history and look forward to celebrating another 40 more years at the forefront of the sport.”
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