Elite Series angler Ott DeFoe and Bass Pro Shops have expanded their partnership for the 2017 season as DeFoe will now be using Bass Pro Shops-branded rods, reels, line and baits.
DeFoe had previously been affiliated with Pure Fishing brands, but will now be outfitted with Johnny Morris Platinum and Titanium rods and reels, Tournament Series baits and XPS line.
“I’ve been aligned with Bass Pro Shops since 2010 and, like most of us, have shopped there for as long as I can remember,"DeFoe said. "I have a tremendous amount of respect for the company and its important role in the outdoors. You can tell from the minute you walk into a Bass Pro Shops that the company treats its people properly. This industry is all about people and you won’t find any company better at taking care of people than Bass Pro Shops.
“As for product quality, Edwin Evers won the 2016 Bassmaster Classic on XPS line and Johnny Morris rods and reels," DeFoe added. "Kevin VanDam has won four Bassmaster Classics and seven AOY titles with XPS line. I’d say if anything I’m stepping up my game. The Johnny Morris line of rods and reels is hands-down the best quality product for the price in fishing. I love them. And being the first Elite Series pro to endorse the Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series Soft Baits is a true honor. We’ll be adding new products to that bait lineup in the future as well.”
Rick Emmitt, manager of Angler Programs/Pro Staff for Bass Pro Shops, said, “We are excited that Ott will be using Bass Pro-branded rods, reels, line, and soft plastics for the 2017 season. Ott has been a part of the BPS family for seven years and continues to be a terrific brand ambassador for us. Besides being one of the top anglers on the Elite Series, Ott is a great family man and exemplifies the standards we look for in a pro staff member. His input will be valuable in designing products to meet the high standards of the Elite Series angler.”
