Knoxville, Tenn. – Elite Series champion Ott DeFoe and Bass Pro Shops have increased their commitment to each other beginning with the Bassmaster Elite Series kickoff in Ott’s backyard next week on Cherokee Lake. Ott will have more Bass Pro branded gear in his Nitro Z21 than ever, adding both Johnny Morris Platinum and Titanium rods and reels, Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series Baits and XPS line to his repertoire.
DeFoe is understandably excited to be working more with Bass Pro Shops. “I’ve been aligned with Bass Pro Shops since 2010 and, like most of us, have shopped there for as long as I can remember. I have a tremendous amount of respect for the company and its important role in the outdoors. You can tell from the minute you walk into a Bass Pro Shops that the company treats its people properly. This industry is all about people and you won’t find any company better at taking care of people than Bass Pro Shops.”
DeFoe continued, “As for product quality, Edwin Evers won the 2016 Bassmaster Classic on XPS line and Johnny Morris rods and reels. Kevin VanDam has won four Bassmaster Classics and seven AOY titles with XPS line. I’d say if anything I’m stepping up my game. The Johnny Morris line of rods and reels is hands-down the best quality product for the price in fishing. I love them. And being the first Elite Series pro to endorse the Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series Soft Baits is a true honor. We’ll be adding new products to that bait lineup in the future as well.”
Rick Emmitt, manager of Angler Programs/Pro Staff for Bass Pro Shops, said “We are excited that Ott will be using Bass Pro-branded rods, reels, line and soft plastics for the 2017 season. Ott has been a part of the BPS family for seven years and continues to be a terrific brand ambassador for us. Besides being one of the top anglers on the Elite Series, Ott is a great family man and exemplifies the standards we look for in a pro staff member. His input will be valuable in designing products to meet the high standards of the Elite Series angler.”