Simms announces new partnerships, sponsorships with professional anglers and organizations

BOZEMAN, MONTANA – Underscoring its commitment to a new and expanded product line, Simms Fishing Products is proud to announce a series of strategic partnerships and sponsorships of organizations and anglers in the world of competitive fishing.

First, Simms is pleased to welcome six professional bass anglers to its inaugural Simms Pro Tournament Angler Staff. Pro bass anglers Gary Klein, Shaw Grigsby, Aaron Martens, Kelly Jordon, Ish Monroe and Brett Ehrler have joined the Simms team. Each have already proved instrumental in assisting Simms develop and refine the new Pro Dry™ GORE-TEX® Parka, Bibs and Pants.

L-R: Grigsby, Ehrler, Jordon and Martens in Simms gear.

“We’re very excited to have this veteran group of tournament-tested professional anglers be a part of Simms as we expand our offerings,” said Simms President K.C. Walsh. “They have put a lot of faith in us to making products that meet and exceed their demands and expectations.”

Martens said he is impressed by the depth and breadth of Simms’ product line.

“Simms is the perfect company for me to partner with when you consider I spend 300-plus days a year outside in the elements,” Martens said. “Simms has everything I need to protect my skin from the sun, wind and more.”

Simms’ new products will be prominently featured at B.A.S.S. Federation tournaments held around the country in 2011 and 2012. Simms has signed on a clothing sponsor of Federation events, and will be rewarding anglers who qualify for the 2011 and 2012 B.A.S.S. Federation Nation Championships.

Federation Nation anglers are in for a treat with Simms gear, said Monroe.

Ish Monroe is a big fan of Simms

“As a professional angler I demand the best outerwear to keep me dry and comfortable, and Simms outerwear does that and more,” said Monroe. “It’s my rain gear of choice and should be yours!"

Additionally, Simms is now the official clothing sponsor of American Bass Anglers. This sponsorship includes the Toyota Tundra Bassmaster Weekend Series, The American Fishing Tour, The American Couples Series and the Annual Military Team Bass Tournament.

Simms is also happy to announce that it has become a supporting partner of the National Professional Anglers Association, a non-profit organization focused on growing the sport of fishing and increasing the professionalism of its members.

Montana-based Simms is the preeminent manufacturer of waders, outerwear and technical apparel in fly fishing. The 2012 line of fishing products, due in stores early next year, continues in the Simms tradition of being expertly crafted by and for serious anglers. Simms' new line of outerwear, footwear and sportswear gives "conventional" anglers – particularly those who fish from boats – a choice in top-end, premium products guaranteed to keep them warm, dry and on the water longer.

About Simms Fishing Products:  Established in 1980, Montana-based Simms Fishing Products is the recognized leader in guide-quality fishing waders, outerwear, footwear and apparel. Their full line of gear is available at specialty and large format retailers nationwide. For more information on Simms, please visit www.simmsfishing.com. Media contact is Matt Crawford at Pale Morning Media (802-583-6069 or matt_crawford@madriver.com).