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2023

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11

Costa Compete + Conserve Provides Cash for Conservation


Costa Sunglasses’ new bass fishing contingency program, “Costa Compete + Conserve” benefits individual anglers directly by paying out bonus money to the highest finishing participant of a supported tournament; but the impact of this one of a kind rewards program doesn’t stop there for the angling and outdoor community.

For every angler payout, a corresponding cash donation is made to one of five organizations Costa has identified as directly benefiting fresh water conservation efforts.

These organizations include:

American Rivers
The Bass Fishing Hall of Fame
Friends of Reservoirs
The National Fish & Wildlife Foundation
The Johnny Morris Foundation
Upon being confirmed as the highest finishing Costa angler in a sanctioned event, the winning angler chooses one of these conservation groups to receive a donation ranging from $250 to $500.

Major League Fishing trails like the MLF Big5 Toyota Series, Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit, and the Bass Pro Tour are eligible for Compete + Conserve payouts and anglers have been cashing in throughout 2021. Each program winner can’t help but beam with fulfillment when it comes to choosing a conservation partner to donate to.

“It’s great to see an industry leader like Costa put together a program like Compete + Conserve,” said two-time 2021 Bass Pro Tour champion Ott DeFoe. “Not only do you get paid to wear the best sunglasses in the world, but you support groups looking after our rivers, lakes, and reservoirs in the process. It’s a win-win for everyone.”

Protecting the water and our natural resources has always been a core value of Costa Sunglasses. Compete + Conserve furthers the conservation initiative by supplying funds to the groups who have boots on the ground working to preserve and improve our fisheries.

“Don’t get me wrong I love winning extra money, but this program enabling me and other anglers to give back to our freshwater resources is what makes Compete + Conserve truly special,” DeFoe said.

Fishing license sales are on the rise, youth competitive fishing programs continue to grow, and there are more people on the water than ever before. These are all great things for the outdoor industry, but it also means our lakes, rivers, and reservoirs are receiving increased pressure. Now, more than ever, the entire fishing community needs to work together to ensure the future of our beloved fisheries.

For more information on the Compete + Conserve program, head to the website: https://www.costacompeteandconserve.com/. If you’d like to learn more about the myriad of protection programs Costa Sunglasses is involved with, follow this link: https://www.costadelmar.com/en-us/inside-costa/protect 

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2023-11

Popular Lure Designer, Accomplished Tournament Angler Phil Marks Passes Away

Editor’s note: This press release was provided by Rather Outdoors.

29

2023-11

Bass Fishing Tournament Organizer Fined for Dead Bass

On Monday, Nov. 23, 2020, The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) in Ontario, issued a release announcing the results of their investigation and subsequent punishment of tournament organizer Ben Woo who discarded 195 bass that died while under the care of his tournament staff at the B1 Tournament in July of 2019.

29

2023-11

Angler Missing after Boating Accident

Crews are currently on scene below the Ft. Loudon dam following a tragic boating incident. According to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, 51-year-old Eric Mowery of Heiskell, Tenn. is missing after a fiberglass fishing boat was sucked into the dam’s spillway. The boat capsized and the other occupant, 44-year-old Steven D. Musick of Jellico, Tenn. was also pulled into the water but was quickly rescued by nearby fishermen. Multiple search teams are assisting with rescue efforts for Mr. Mowery.

29

2023-11

Angler Missing after Boating Accident

Crews are currently on scene below the Ft. Loudon dam following a tragic boating incident. According to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, 51-year-old Eric Mowery of Heiskell, Tenn. is missing after a fiberglass fishing boat was sucked into the dam’s spillway. The boat capsized and the other occupant, 44-year-old Steven D. Musick of Jellico, Tenn. was also pulled into the water but was quickly rescued by nearby fishermen. Multiple search teams are assisting with rescue efforts for Mr. Mowery.

29

2023-11

Fishing Icon Ron Lindner Passes at 86

Fishing icon and industry giant Ron Lindner has passed away at 86 years old. The co-founder of In-Fisherman, Lindner is responsible for sharing an incredible amount of knowledge with anglers of all skill levels. He was immensely respected within the industry and will always be remembered as not only a great angler, but an excellent human being who loved to watch others succeed. The Wired2fish team extends our prayers and deepest condolences for the entire Lindner family.

29

2023-11

Bass Fishing Legends: What Will Happen When They’re Gone?

Let this question sink in a bit.  What will the world be like without you in it and how will you be remembered?

29

2023-11

Popular Outdoor Retailer Purchased by Bass Pro Shops Owners

In an effort to better serve its loyal customers, Sportsman’s Warehouse has entered into a definitive agreement to join the Great American Outdoors Group, parent company of Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s, White River Marine Group and a collection of nature-based resorts. The Great American Outdoors Group will remain a private company with a long-term view to do what is best for its customers, team members and conservation initiatives. As part of the agreement, Sportsman’s Warehouse will be acquired for $18.00 per share in cash.

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2023-11

Bass Fishing Hall of Fame Announces 2021 Inductees

As part of its mission to celebrate those who have made major contributions to the sport, the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame Board of Directors has announced the induction class of 2021, which includes three deserving individuals – Gene Gilliland, Jason Lucas and Trip Weldon. The trio will be honored on Thursday, September 30 at Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium at a special reception within the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame venue, followed by the Hall’s annual dinner and induction activities.