Bass Cat Boats announced today it has added Paul Elias to its 2017 pro staff.
Elias, a member of the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame since 2012 and 1982 Bassmaster Classic champion, has more than 40 years of tournament experience and is recognized as one of the sport's trendsetters.
He has six B.A.S.S. wins and has amassed over $1 million in B.A.S.S. winnings. Additionally, his resume includes two FLW wins and nearly $400,000 in earnings from that circuit. Along the way, he’s qualified for 16 Bassmaster Classics and five Forrest Wood Cups, while introducing the world to techniques like “kneeling and reeling” and the Alabama Rig. At a 2008 Elite Series tournament on Falcon Lake, he set the all-time four-day weight record with a total of 132 pounds, 8 ounces.
“I know that Rick Pierce works hard to maximize performance in every one of his boats,” Elias said. “When I look at a boat, I look for the quality of construction, the rough water ride, and speed capability – all of which Bass Cat delivers. I look forward to pairing my Bass Cat with a Honda outboard for the ultimate performance combination,” he added.
Bass Cat President Rick Pierce stressed that this partnership has been in the works for quite a while and that while the company has recently added several younger anglers, Elias will round out the team as a voice of experience.
“I’ve known Paul for many years and, of course, we are all very aware of his many achievements,” Pierce said. “He’s one of the few guys still on tour who can bring the heritage of the sport to younger anglers like Adrian Avena, Brandon Card, and Seth Feider. We look forward to seeing his Honda-powered rig on tour and in the winner’s circle."
