The Bass Fishing Hall of Fame’s board of directors announced this week that five individuals, each of whom has made a substantial mark on the sport of bass fishing, have been selected for induction into the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame. The Class of 2019, with formal induction ceremonies taking place at Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife Museum and Aquarium in Springfield on Sept. 19, includes three stars of professional bass fishing – Mark Davis of Mt. Ida, Ark., David Fritts of Lexington, N.C., and Davy Hite of Ninety Six, S.C. – along with noted artist/illustrator, the late Chris Armstrong, and the founder of Zoom Bait Company, the late Ed Chambers.
The inductees were nominated by supporters of the Hall of Fame and elected by a 30-member panel of sportfishing industry leaders, members of the outdoor media, professional anglers and current inductees of the Hall of Fame.
“All these men, in both what they have done and continue to do, reflect perfectly on the Hall’s mission to celebrate, promote and preserve the sport of bass fishing,” said John Mazurkiewicz, vice president of the Hall of Fame board and Nominations Committee chair. “We are confident that the selection process first implemented last year helps ensure that we will continue to induct the most deserving bass fishing innovators and pioneers.”
The five will be enshrined in the Hall of Fame museum, which opened in November 2017 within the Wonders of Wildlife complex at the flagship Bass Pro Shops store in Springfield. On display in the museum are artifacts, photos and biographical information about 71 members of the Hall of Fame who have been inducted since 2001.
“Many have said the annual Bass Fishing Hall of Fame enshrinement dinner has become a must-attend event for anyone interested in bass fishing,” said Donald Howell, BFHOF board president. “Last year’s event was sold out and we expect that this year’s class will draw an equally vibrant and star-studded crowd as we honor the newest members of the Hall of Fame.”
Information on event and table sponsorships, dinner seats and tickets for a special VIP unveiling reception, along with details about the Hall and its mission, are available at www.BassFishingHOF.com, or by contacting BFHOF executive director Barbara Bowman at bfhof.barbara@gmail.com.
