Gary Yamamoto Custom Baits announced today it will serve as the title sponsor for veteran pro Shinichi "Shin" Fukae in 2015. Both Fukae and 1983 Bassmaster Classic champion Larry Nixon will run GYCB boat wraps on the FLW Tour this year.
"With our long relationship with Shin both here in the United States and while he was fishing in Japan, this title sponsorship just made sense," said Ron Colby, GYCB vice president of operations. "His success in the United States with some of our Japan-only products encouraged us to release these items and colors here and they have become very popular, especially his favorite the Shad Shape Worm. We are currently working with Shin to add colors to his favorite lures and to bring out some unique styles that he has been working on."
Fukae turned pro in Japan in 1991, and shortly thereafter won an Angler of the Year title in his native country. He moved to the U.S. in 2004 and won the FLW Tour AOY title as a rookie, thus making him the only angler with two such major titles from different countries. Last year, he won the Lake Champlain Bassmaster Northern Open, thereby qualifying him for the 2015 Bassmaster Classic, which will be his first shot at that major title.
"I've been using Yamamoto products since I was a kid in Japan," Fukae said. "I first met Gary and Beverly over 10 years ago and our friendship and business relationship continues to grown. As many fishing fans know, I enjoy finesse fishing so the partnership with Yamamoto is a great fit. The Senko and the Shad Shape Worm in particular have enabled me to earn lots of checks over the course of my career. I can't wait to win more tournaments with Yamamoto products."
