Shaping the Future of Fishing: Minn Kota & Humminbird’s Dedication to Next Generation of Anglers
The growth of college fishing over the last several years has been substantial, with events typically drawing between 200-250 boats from around the country. At the high school level, participation is even greater, with events often seeing up to 300 boats. This high level of engagement showcases the growing interest in competitive fishing among young anglers and highlights the crucial role that Johnson Outdoors plays in supporting these anglers and tournaments.
For over 13 years, the Minn Kota and Humminbird brands have been a steadfast supporter of young anglers, going above and beyond to lead the charge. Their commitment to fostering young talent is evident through their unparalleled presence and contributions at key events, significantly impacting the growth and development of college and high school fishing.
Expanding Support to High School
Building on the success of the collegiate fishing program and recognizing the overlap in event schedules, Minn Kota and Humminbird seized the opportunity once again to continue their support of B.A.S.S. high school fishing tournaments in 2024. The initiative closely mirrors their commitment to college fishing by attending these events and ensuring younger anglers benefit from their support.
Humminbird and Minn Kota are constantly looking for ways to be more involved in the future of the sport and support the younger generations of anglers. The Bassmaster High School Combine, taking place from September 13-15 in Decatur, AL, on the shores of Wheeler Lake, is an event where current high school anglers can showcase their skills and meet coaches and anglers from colleges nationwide.
25 Colleges from across the nation will recruit and offer scholarships to the top High School anglers in the country hoping to find the best fit for their program. Johnson Outdoors will have team members in attendance participating in seminars on locating fish, passing out apparel, and supporting the young anglers as they navigate from High School to Collegiate competition.
Support Programs and Incentives
Through their program, Humminbird and Minn Kota allow young anglers the opportunity to utilize best-in-class sonar technology to learn more about locating and catching fish and enhance their development and understanding of marine electronics. Additionally, the contingency program at College B.A.S.S. events awards the highest-finishing all-Humminbird/Minn Kota boat with new products, such as a Humminbird SOLIX unit or a Humminbird MEGA 360. Other events offer prizes like the new Minn Kota Ultrex QUEST trolling motor or Humminbird MEGA Live, further incentivizing participation among young anglers.
“Johnson Outdoors goes above and beyond at all the College B.A.S.S. events throughout the year. Bill Carson does a great job speaking at the events and meeting and greeting anglers on behalf of Humminbird and Minn Kota,” said Emmanuel College standout Chase Carey. “The discount program and contingency bonuses are huge incentives for us anglers to use Humminbird and Minn Kota products and benefit from placing high in the tournament. All of these factors truly show the commitment and support that Minn Kota and Humminbird has towards young anglers pursuing their dream of fishing competitively.”
Success for the Future
Beyond collegiate-level tournaments, Johnson Outdoors continues to support anglers as they advance in their careers by actively recruiting former collegiate anglers due to their knowledge and commitment to the fishing industry. Many of these former collegiate anglers are employed within Minn Kota and Humminbird. Additionally, they assist former collegiate anglers in securing positions elsewhere in the industry, further aiding their transition into professional roles.
"At Minn Kota and Humminbird, we are dedicated to fostering the next generation of anglers,” said Bill Carson, Director of College/High School Fishing at Johnson Outdoors and recent inductee into the Legends of the Outdoors Hall of Fame. “Our commitment to supporting college and high school fishing tournaments goes beyond just providing equipment; it's about nurturing young talent and helping them succeed in the sport we all love. The growth we've seen in participation levels is truly inspiring, and we're proud to play a pivotal role in this journey. Our programs, from discounted pricing to contingency awards, are designed to give these young anglers the best possible start, and we look forward to continuing our support for many years to come."
Johnson Outdoors, through Humminbird and Minn Kota, has established itself as a cornerstone of support for college and high school fishing. Their presence at collegiate events, the contingency programs, and their commitment to career development for young anglers demonstrate their dedication to the youth of the sport. By continuously investing in the future of fishing, Johnson Outdoors ensures that the next generation of anglers is equipped with the best opportunities to succeed.