FLW Outdoors and Rapala have signed a sponsorship extension for 2011, reaffirming the bait manufacturer's longstanding commitment to tournament angling.


Through FLW Outdoors' lucrative bass and walleye tournaments, Rapala will showcase its line of baits, tools, knives and fishing accessories.

 

Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

“Rapala's reputation as an industry leader has been honed over several decades, and their performance proves that,” said Kathy Fennel, president, FLW Outdoors Operations Division. “So many of our pros rely on their products for their success, and to have Rapala support our anglers as well as our fans speaks volumes of their commitment to the sport.”


Rapala officials said the FLW sponsorship offers “great opportunities to support tournament anglers in both the bass and walleye arenas.”


“The popularity of tournament angling has grown substantially,” said Tom Mackin, president of Rapala U.S.A. “FLW Outdoors has pioneered the way for tournament anglers and we are thrilled to be a part of the action by extending our sponsorship with the organization, and to lend our support to the anglers.”


Rapala's all-star pro staff includes FLW Tour pros Terry Bolton, David Fritts, Dave Lefebre, Tom Mann Jr., Larry Nixon and FLW Walleye Tour pro Chris Gilman.


Featured in a variety of media formats, Rapala will be included in the weekly “FLW Outdoors” television program on VERSUS, FLW Outdoors' multiple websites, and its bass and walleye magazines. Rapala will also benefit from FLW Fantasy Fishing, which has offered the largest awards in fantasy sports history, with various prizes in cash, products and promotions.


Rapala will have the opportunity to display their products, including Sufix and Trigger X, 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 Festival, held in conjunction with National Guard FLW College Fishing events.