Bassmaster Elite Series pro Pete Ponds of Mississippi recently secured a boat-wrap deal with V&M Baits, Bandit Lures and Ardent Reels.
V&M produces a full line of soft plastics, including the popular Pork Pen. "They cook pork fat and anise oil into every bait, and that creates buoyancy," he said. "It eliminates having to use a spray-on attractant because any unwanted scent is masked. They're especially effective on spotted bass."
Of Bandit, he said: "They're a staple in the industry and our association will be an asset to me as well as them. If you're in the retail business, then Bandit needs to be on your shelves."
Ardent is a relatively new player in the reel game. "Their owner, Steve Ruff, is very up on the technical aspects of reels," he said. "Plus, all of the parts are made in the USA, and that was very important to me."
