Elite Series angler Chad Pipkens, who is fresh off a Bassmaster Northern Open points title, has joined the Bass Cat Boats National Team, and will run a Cougar FTD for the 2017 tournament season.
In addition to his recent points title, Pipkens won the 2014 Bassmaster Northern Open on Lake St. Clair to qualify for the first of two consecutive Bassmaster Classics. He joined the Elite Series in 2013 and has finished in the money in just under 50 percent of his B.A.S.S. appearances, including eight top-10s. His best Elite Series finish was a 3rd at Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay in 2015.
“I’m looking forward to starting a new relationship with a company that is family owned,” said Pipkens, who will strap a Suzuki SS 250 on the back of his new Cougar FTD. “Everybody knows Bass Cat boats are extremely fast, but I fish a lot of big water up north and I’m most excited about the rough water ride handling."
Bass Cat President Rick Pierce said that Pipkens was recommended to him by long time Bass Cat pro staffer Mike Iaconelli.
"Chad is an enthusiastic angler and we like his vibrant attitude," Pierce said. "He will be a great asset to us in the northern markets and with Mike’s friendship and guidance, he will continue to develop into a top-flight pro.”
