2009 Bassmaster Classic Champion Skeet Reese Joins Forces with Wright & McGill Co.

Partnership to Produce New Signature Fishing Rods

Auburn, Calif. – 2009 Bassmaster Classic Champion and 2007 Bassmaster Angler of the Year Skeet Reese, announces a new partnership with the Wright & McGill Co. to produce a new line of Skeet Reese Signature Tessera Fishing Rods. The series will be based on the competitive needs of one of the world’s best anglers combined with the technological expertise of one of the industry’s most well known manufacturers.

The Wright & McGill Skeet Reese Signature Tessera Fishing Rods will feature nine technique specific models designed by Reese to fit his own fishing style and the most popular fishing techniques being utilized today. From drop shotting to flipping and pitching, swimbaits, crankbaits and jerkbaits, the lineup will fill the needs of any serious angler. The new lineup will be constructed using Wright & McGill’s proprietary S-Curve blank technology.

S-Curve is Wright & McGill’s new process of blank construction that blends a precise mixture of materials in a specific process for assembly that results in a thin diameter blank that weighs less than conventional construction without sacrificing durability. The result of the S-Curve construction and premium components is a premium bass fishing rod that would make a Bassmaster Classic Champion proud, while making it affordable for the angling public.

“I am very excited about this new partnership with Wright & McGill,” said Reese, who has been active in design and construction of new products with his sponsors for many years. “I have always wanted to be able to produce a premium fishing rod that would be at a price point that every angler would be able to afford; Wright & McGill Co. has given me that opportunity

“It was not easy to make the decision to leave Lamiglas as they have always been very good to me,” said Reese. “But this new project will allow me to build the rods I’ve always wanted to build at a price point that everyone can afford; and with Wright & McGill’s distribution network, we will be able to provide many anglers a chance to experience their quality construction and affordability.”

Chris Russell, Marketing Director for the Wright & McGill Co. said that the company is equally as excited to be working with Reese. “The thought of working with a Bassmaster Classic Champion and Angler of the Year is certainly thrilling,” Russell, said that was not the only draw however. “Skeet has a real understanding of the business of the fishing industry, and a real sense of what the fishing public needs and wants; when coupled with his skill as an angler and his work ethic, he represents a tremendous asset, one we are proud to enter into this project with.

Reese said the rods fit his style, both as an angler and an icon. “The components are the best available, the blanks are some of the most technologically advanced I’ve ever seen,” Reese said. “The look of the rods will certainly be aggressive, reflecting my personal trademarks, I think everyone will see them for the revolutionary product they are.”

Wright & McGill’s Skeet Reese Signature Tessera Rods will make their industry debut at ICAST in Orlando in July, In keeping with the Wright & McGill Co. brand strategy, these rods will be designed and priced to offer exceptional quality and value at a price point affordable to a wide range of anglers; the entire line is expected to retail between $89 - $99.

Skeet Reese is a Bassmaster Elite Series pro, he is the 2009 Bassmaster Classic Champion and the 2007 Bassmaster Angler of the Year who has compiled career earnings that total more than $1.9 million in career earnings. Reese has qualified for 10 Bassmaster Classic appearances, and has finished in the top 10 41 times, including four wins in BASS competition in an 11 year career. Reese is a 39-year-old California native who resides in Auburn, Calif. with his wife Kim, and two daughters; Leamarie and Courtney. Visit his website: www.skeetreeseinc.com.

Wright & McGill Co. is one of the most recognizable companies in the fishing industry. The manufacturer of Lazer Sharp and Eagle Claw hooks and their own brand of rods and reels, as well as big game tackle. Their line of Essentials and Accessories gear has become one of the most sought after brands in the world today, and the new fishing rod home of 2009 Bassmaster Classic Champion Skeet Reese. For more about Wright & McGill, visit them at www.wright-mcgill.com