Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium in Springfield, Mo. will be the permanent home of the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame. The grand opening is set for Sept. 21.
Founded in 2000, the BFHOF showcases the sport’s icons and individuals who have further3d the sport of bass fishing. Developed in partnership with B.A.S.S., the exhibit will include a collection of artifacts and memorabilia including authentic rods and reels, antique lures and historical photos. More than 60 Hall of Fame members will be featured, including Bill Dance, Jimmy Houston, Roland Martin, Johnny Morris, Ray Scott, President George H.W. Bush and many others. Several artifacts date back to the early days of B.A.S.S. tournaments in the 1960s, including the scale used to weigh record catches and the first Bassmaster Classic trophy.
“To be part of a transformational project like Wonders of Wildlife and share the story of bass fishing with generations of future visitors is a dream come true,” said Donald Howell, president of the BFHOF board of directors. “There is no better location to honor the individuals who have played a crucial role in bass fishing. Visitors will be blown away by all that Wonders of Wildlife encompasses, and we’re grateful to Johnny Morris for his partnership and bringing this vision to life in such compelling fashion.”
The Bass Fishing Hall of Fame is one of several galleries contained within Wonders of Widlife. Other include The International Game Fish Association (IGFA) Fishing Hall of Fame, the Boone and Crockett Club’s National Collection of Heads and Horns, the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum and the National Archery Hall of Fame.
“Our mission is to establish a world-class destination that celebrates people who hunt, fish and act as stewards of the land and water,” said Morris, the founder of Bass Pro Shops. “There are so many notable hunters and anglers who have played an important role in the conservation of our precious natural resources and habitats. We are honored to welcome the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame to help further enrich that story for our visitors.”
For more about the BFHOF, click here.
