FLW Outdoors and Mercury Marine have signed an extensive agreement, marking Mercury's return as a sponsor of the world's largest tournament-fishing organization.


Through FLW Outdoors' lucrative bass and walleye tournaments, Mercury said it will showcase its marine propulsion systems – the largest lineup in the industry. In addition, MotorGuide and Brunswick Zone will have a strong presence across the FLW Outdoors platforms. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

Along with Mercury, Evinrude will continue to serve as one of two official outboard-engine sponsors of FLW Outdoors in 2011.


“We are very pleased that Mercury has rejoined the ranks of FLW Outdoors,” said Trisha Blake, president of the FLW Outdoors Marketing Division. “With our aggressive programs, we're confident Mercury will see considerable market-share growth. They're making a strong statement of support to professional fishing, and our anglers are sure to respond enthusiastically.”


Mercury Marine officials said the FLW sponsorship offers great opportunities to support tournament anglers, in both the bass and walleye arenas.


“Mercury Marine and MotorGuide are extremely excited about this opportunity to work with the FLW and Ranger Boats,” said Mike Shedivy, vice president of marketing at Mercury Marine. “We feel Mercury represents the heart of tournament fishing, and we will continue to support the various species of competitive angling.


“We recognize that the FLW has traditionally offered very lucrative prizes, and Mercury and MotorGuide will support the FLW in its continued efforts to provide the highest payouts possible. Also, we want to invite all FLW anglers currently driving Yamaha engines to take a demo ride on our fishing-boat engines – especially the 250 Pro XS and the new Verado Pro FourStroke.”


In addition, Mercury and MotorGuide will be featured in a variety of media formats, including the weekly “FLW Outdoors” television program on VERSUS, FLW Outdoors' multiple websites and its bass and walleye magazines. Mercury will also be a major supporter of FLW Fantasy Fishing, which has offered the largest awards in fantasy sports history, with various prizes in cash, products and promotions.


The properties will also have the opportunity to display their products, promote their anglers and provide promotional offers to fans at the FLW Outdoors Expo, held in conjunction with the Walmart FLW Tour; and the College Fishing Festivals, held in conjunction with National Guard FLW College Fishing.