Skeeter FX Series (FX20 & FX21) Fact Sheet

SKEETER’S FX SERIES – Today’s competitive and “no compromise” bass boat buyer desires to fish out of a longer, more comfortable, feature-enhanced boat with a fuel-efficient and high-performance outboard engine.

AN INDUSTRY FIRST – The design and planning process for the FX Series was the perfect opportunity to develop a bass boat series in conjunction with the design of an entirely new outboard engine series, Yamaha’s VMAX® SHO™.

NO PERFORMANCE COMPROMISES – With more than 60 years of experience in the bass boat industry, Skeeter has learned to never compromise in bringing a new boat to market, and the same goes for the new FX Series. This series has a new look, but is built on the traditional Skeeter values that have made the brand a success for decades. The FX Series needed to be the ultimate fishing platform, capable of carrying more gear, batteries, tackle and accessories and must be held accountable for improved performance, such as hole shot, top-end speed, maneuverability, midrange punch and efficiency.

Skeeter Performance Fishing Boats

PERFORMANCE DATA – The top-end speed of the FX Series has been measured at 2-4 mph faster than Skeeter’ award-winning 20i-Class with the same power. Hole shot data shows the FX Series as 2-3 seconds quicker than the 20i-Class with the same power. Acceleration: 0-60 mph, 15.05 seconds and 0-70 mph, 21.88 seconds.

WATER FLOW RELIEF – A new water flow relief system was designed specifically with the VMAX SHO series that concentrates water around the gear case during the hole shot. This allows for a quicker hole shot, better immediate “out of the hole” transom lift and faster top-end speed.

SPONSONS – The FX Series features larger sponsons, adding 1.7 cu ft of flotation, which is equal in offsetting floatation to taking two batteries out of the boat. This, in addition to sharpening the sponson edges for a racy profile, allows for a quicker hole shot, provides a more stable platform that floats shallower, increases Skeeter’s no-splashwell concept, and lets more of the boat’s surface touch the water, thus keeping the boats fishing platform parallel to the water when fishing.

WIDER and SHARPER STRAKES – Strakes were adjusted 1/8” to ½” with wider and sharper edges, offering a new lifting surface during the hole shot and top end, as well as giving a new feel for more responsive turns and handling.

RUNNING SURFACE – The FX Series blends all of the angles of the running surface to the forward entry point of the hull. This provides for a fast surface, maximizing the power of the VMAX SHO Series, yet while maintaining Skeeter’s width mid-ship, that allows for the large reverse chines to turn water down

GRAPHICS & DESIGN – The FX Series graphics package, modular consoles, full-flex upholstered seats, paint options and trailer upgrades were designed to compliment with the new look of Yamaha’s VMAX SHO cowling.

DATA (FX21): 33.4 mph @ 3000 rpm; 75.4 mph @ 6000 rpm; 3.26 sec to plane; 6.10, 0-30 mph.

KILGORE, Texas, November 17, 2009 – In an industry first, Skeeter Products, Inc. introduces its revolutionary new FX Series, featuring two bass boats designed to be introduced with Yamaha’s new “game changer” Four-Stroke V6 VMAX^® SHO™ outboard engines.

Skeeter/Yamaha Launch Industry First

Skeeter’s next generation of bass boats, the FX20 and FX21, was designed specifically to run with exceptional performance when combined with Yamaha’s new VMAX SHO 200 hp, 225 hp and 250 hp engines.

“The FX continues our aggressive new product strategy well into the next decade, and our partnership with Yamaha on this boat/motor package enabled us to manufacture a product with a better hole shot and higher top-end speed, with the benefit of the better fuel economy that a four-stroke engine has to offer,” says Jeff Stone, Skeeter Senior Vice President/General Manager.

According to Stone, the FX Series is sure to meet and exceed the demands of tournament anglers and serious bass fishing enthusiasts seeking the highest performing bass boat on the market. “We took our motto ‘Engineered Like No Other’ to the max with the development of the FX Series,” adds Stone.

Yamaha's New VMAX SHO

For the FX Series, Skeeter increased the size of its sponson area an additional 1.7 cu ft, the equivalent of removing two batteries from the boat. Next, Skeeter designed wider and sharper strakes along the running surface to provide lift and deflect water for more speed, better turning ability and a smoother ride. These innovations lead to a dry and stable ride, with no chine walking and no backwash.

Each engine in Yamaha’s VMAX SHO family of outboards has an all-new four-stroke 4.2-liter V6 powerhead that provides the best power-to-weight ratio in its class. New materials make the engines lighter, more efficient and powerful.  Larger throttle valves, intake and exhaust valves and water pickups ensure peak efficiency and performance. Yamaha also employed plasma-fused sleeveless cylinders instead of steel sleeves to provide a durable surface for the engine’s piston rings, thus reducing the overall weight of the VMAX SHO by 34 pounds compared to its two-stroke predecessor, the VMAX^®.

“In the past, all bass fishermen were concerned about was speed – getting to their fishing spot before anyone else. Even as times have changed, Skeeter and Yamaha still deliver the speed and fishability that anglers need to be competitive, but with the FX Series, we can also deliver a higher level of overall performance, reliability, efficiency and style in a single boat,” says Ben Jarrett, Skeeter’s National Sales Manager.

“This was a no-compromise effort in the long and tedious design and planning process, building a bass boat series to meet the expectations and demands of what modern fishermen expect in a boat,” says Jarrett.

“The FX20 and FX21 are entirely new boats, with an entirely newly designed deck and hull. A completely new high performance profile gives the new FX series a completely new look that defines the words under our logo “Performance Fishing Boats” says Jarrett.

The FX Series features a new Digital Multifunctional System (DMS) that runs a new boat security/alarm system and iForce locks, and also serves as a command center that controls Yamaha’s multifunction gauges. The cockpit, with available dual-console option, includes tilt hydraulic steering, driver and passenger glove boxes, custom grab handles, side panels, non-skid mats and bump stick holder, and upholstered full-flex seating with an under seat 30-quart ice chest. A foot-throttle and pro tilt and trim behind the new custom-made performance steering wheel are standard.

Classic Champion Checks Out FX Series

“Unlike most bass boat designs, our gas tanks are not located mid-ship under the seats, which allows us to optimize storage space for gear and tackle ” says Jarrett. The FX20 and FX21 feature 34-gallon rear livewells with independent fill, recirculating and drain modes, and adjustable pump timer and pump-out. A 28-quart in-floor compartment doubles as storage for gear or as an ice chest. Additional gear compartments are found under the aft and bow fishing decks, including a removable day box and an integrated rod storage holder. Storage compartments feature gas-assisted lifts for ease of access.

A digital bow panel includes trolling motor receptacle, lighting, and trim switches. Auto or manual 1500 GPH bilge pump, interior lighting, standard high performance 12” Jack place with two stern eyes, 15 Amp x 4-bank Minn Kota battery charger with charging inlet and 6-gauge trolling motor wiring system with four battery trays are also standard on both models. With a dual, 50-gallon fuel tank, combined with Yamaha’s VMAX SHO high performance offerings with unmatched fuel economy, the FX21 and FX20 will get you to your fishing spots on fewer dollars.

Both the FX20 and FX21 come standard with a Humminbird 788 dash-mounted fish finder and 728 bow-mounted fish finder with transducers, temperature probes, GPS antenna and interlink system, and Minn Kota Max 101 foot-operated, 101 lbs. thrust, 36V, 42” shaft trolling motor. Also standard is an FX touring trailer with tandem axle, disc brakes, spare tire carrier, swing tongue, ratchet tie-downs, aluminum wheels, color coordinated Euro-Step, polymer fenders, custom lighting and torsion axles.

The FX Series may be personalized with a host of optional features, including enhanced hull, deck color and graphics packages, dual console, electronics packages from Hummingbird and Lowrance, Yamaha Command Link, live-well aeration system, 12” hydraulic jack-plate, carpet padding, trolling motor options from Minn Kota or Motor Guide, in-floor cooler exchange, 13” fixed fishing seat, bike seat with Power Pro Pole, Hamby keel protector, Sirius-ready, AM-FM stereo with CD player, wired remote control and speakers, boarding ladder, tackle storage system and trailer upgrades.

MSRP: FX21/SHO250 $70,810, FX21/SHO225 $69,460, FX20/SHO250 $69,280, FX20/SHO225 $67,930.

Skeeter Products, Inc., the Official Boat Sponsor of BASS, makes fishing and boating fun and rewarding with an owner’s tournament, its “Real Money” tournament incentive program, and a top-notch dealer network. Skeeter is the recipient of eight consecutive NMMA® C.S.I. Customer Satisfaction Index awards, and its boats are certified to meet strict U.S. Coast Guard and American Boat & Yacht Council standards. For a catalog call (800) SKEETER, or for more information visit www.skeeterboats.com. Keep-up with Skeeter news, happenings, anglers and events by following us online at www.facebook.com/skeeterteam, www.myspace.com/skeeterteam and www.twitter.com/skeeterteam.

]]> http://www.b2ideas.com/blog/skeeter/skeeter-launches-wx1900-deep-v/feed/ 0 http://www.b2ideas.com/blog/skeeter/skeeter-launches-get-bit-save-big-promotion/ http://www.b2ideas.com/blog/skeeter/skeeter-launches-get-bit-save-big-promotion/#comments Tue, 15 Sep 2009 13:59:10 +0000 bob http://www.b2ideas.com/blog/?p=401 Skeeter Launches End of Summer “Get Bit – Save Big” Retail Promotion

KILGORE, Texas, September 12, 2009 – Skeeter Products, Inc., manufacturer of Skeeter brand boats, launches its “Get Bit – Save Big” fall retail promotion for 2009, kicking off the cool weather by offering cash back rebates on all models, including its i-Class Series, ZX and SX Series bass boats, SL Family Sport Series, WX Deep V Series, and its Bay Boat Saltwater Series.

“Now is the perfect time to purchase a Skeeter boat, as our company is aggressively pricing models for new owners, and supporting our efforts with an outstanding nationwide dealer network that is dedicated to providing top notch customer service, before, during and after the sale,” says Ben Jarrett, Skeeter’s National Sales Manager.

Skeeter’s “Get Bit – Save Big” promotion runs from September 12 – October 31, 2009, and offers cash back rebates as high as $3,000 on select new, in stock and ordered boats (not previously warranty registered).  These huge savings also apply to Skeeter’s new models for 2010, including its ZX170, WX1900 and SL1800.  Skeeter’s line-up features an array of boats for serious or recreational bass, walleye and inshore saltwater anglers, or something that the entire family can enjoy.

“Becoming a Skeeter owner is easy, as we have dealers in every part of the county to support our owners.  People can also visit our web site at www.skeeterboats.com to explore models, standard features and options, before they walk into a Skeeter dealership,” says Jarrett.

Skeeter Products, Inc., the Official Boat Sponsor of BASS, makes fishing and boating fun and rewarding with an owner’s tournament, its ‘Real Money’ tournament incentive program, and a top- notch dealer network.  Skeeter designs and manufactures innovative and high-performing bass, walleye, fish & ski, and saltwater boats.  Skeeter is the recipient of eight consecutive CSI customer satisfaction awards, and its boats are NMMA certified to meet strict U.S. Coast Guard and American Boat & Yacht Council standards.  For more information visit www.skeeterboats.com.

Skeeter Launches New SL1800 - Family Friendly Model Great for Recreational Anglers

KILGORE, Texas, August 24, 2009 – Skeeter Products, Inc. has replaced its popular SL180 with an entirely new hull design in its SL1800, a model that is four inches longer, five inches wider, has a six square-foot larger front deck, and features two additional inches in interior depth.

“With the strong reception of our SL1900 last season, we wanted to follow-up with another family sport model that would complement our entire SL Series of boats, which now includes the SL210, SL1900, SL190 and new SL1800,” says Ben Jarrett, Skeeter’s National Sales Manager. “Our SL Series of boats has received a lot of attention this past year because of their versatility in appealing to families vacationing closer to home – using their boats for fishing and recreational water sports.”

Skeeter’s design of the SL1800 gives families a sporty-looking boat with ample space for people and gear, yet in a small package. The new model is rated for Yamaha’s F150 four-stroke engine, providing excellent reliability, fuel efficiency, performance and a quick hole shot for pulling skiers, wake boarders or tubers.

The SL1800 comes packaged with a Skeeter single axle trailer with disc brakes, tie downs, swing-away tongue, ultra-silver wheels, spare tire and carrier, in addition to a Humminbird 728 in-dash fish finder with transducer and temperature probe. The MSRP for the SL1800, powered by a Yamaha F150 is $38,060.

The entire SL Series is designed for family fun, comfort, convenience and luxury. The modular consoles features a low-profile walk-through windshield, cockpit command center with horn, tachometer, speedometer, fuel, trim gauges and 12 V acc plug. Hydraulic tilt steering fits any size driver, and an AM/FM radio with compact disc player, four speakers and MP3 adapter are standard.

Side panel net storage and a passenger glove box are great for personal items, while an in-floor storage compartment converts to hold either fishing equipment or skiing gear. A 55-quart ice chest under the rear deck keeps you on the water all day, and a retractable boarding ladder, ski rope storage, ski tow pylon and bow deck pads are standard comforts for recreational water sports.

For anglers, the SL1800 features a single rear live well with control system, including fill, recirculating modes and timer. Two fishing seats with 13 inch extensions, bow panel with trolling motor receptacle and trim switch and a six gauge trolling motor wiring system with three battery trays makes the SL1800 fishing-ready at a moments notice.

Capable of holding five people or 737 lbs., passengers will ride in comfort with bucket seats and a rear bench seat.

The SL1800 includes plenty of options, allowing you to personalize your boat to fit your needs. Options include a range of colors to select from, canopy top, rear deck sun pad, electronics packages from Lowrance and Humminbird, Minn Kota trolling motor and trailer upgrades, among other options.

SL1800 Specifications

Length – 18’, Beam – 93”, Interior Depth – 23”, Draft – 14”, Dry Weight – 1,850 lbs., Max. Horsepower – 150 h.p.

SL1800 Performance Data (Yamaha F150)

Cruise Speed – 24.7 mph @ 3,000 rpm (5.88 mpg), Top Speed – 52.5 mph @ 5,850 rpm (3.18 mpg),

MSRP

$38,060 (Yamaha F150)

Skeeter's Todd Faircloth Readies for the Postseason

]]> http://www.b2ideas.com/blog/skeeter/team-skeeter-preps-for-bassmaster-postseason/feed/ 0 http://www.b2ideas.com/blog/skeeter/team-skeeter-preps-for-final-elite-series-event/ http://www.b2ideas.com/blog/skeeter/team-skeeter-preps-for-final-elite-series-event/#comments Mon, 10 Aug 2009 13:28:47 +0000 bob http://www.b2ideas.com/blog/?p=378 Team Skeeter Preps for Final Elite Series Event – Anglers Strategize for Postseason & Classic Berths

KILGORE, Texas, August 10, 2009 – With the final event of the 2009 Bassmaster Elite Series regular season this weekend on Oneida Lake outside of Syracuse, New York, several Team Skeeter anglers are poised for a shot at the top 12 in the Angler of the Year standings, qualifying each for Bassmaster’s inaugural postseason.

Skeeter's Kelly Jordon

Only the top 12 in the final regular-season Toyota Tundra Bassmaster Angler of the Year standings will move on to the inaugural Bassmaster Elite Series postseason, the Toyota Trucks Championship Week, held Sept. 10-18 on two productive Alabama fisheries – Lake Jordan in Wetumpka and the Alabama River in Montgomery.

Regardless of a postseason berth, there’s still a $100,000 purse on the line for a tournament victory. Last year, Skeeter’s Dean Rojas took the trophy, and though the angler is not in contention for the postseason, he’s fishing for a win, hoping to secure a Bassmaster Classic invitation.

“This is no different than last year, and I feel confident that I can contend for a victory next weekend, and at least a top-10 finish, which will help to get me into the Classic,” says Rojas. “I feel comfortable and know I can get on the right fish,” he added.

Skeeter’s Alton Jones is currently in third place in the AOY standings, and believes this year’s Champion’s Choice winner will need a mix of largemouth and smallmouth bass. “I’m going to concentrate on areas that can produce both species, but I expect all of the AOY contenders to be on their A game,” says the former Bassmaster Classic Champion.

“We should see good bags coming from a variety of different depths, but I believe the shallow water bite, in one-eight feet of water, will ultimately prevail.” Jones makes no secret on his intentions – flipping Booyah jigs and YUM wooly bugs, or using XCalibur’s twitchbait.

Skeeter’s Mark Menendez is another angler who has compiled a stellar 2009 season. Currently in 11th place in the AOY standings, Menendez knows the Bassmaster Classic is in-hand, but fishing a clean event will put him into the postseason. “Anything above a top 40 finish on Oneida gets me into the postseason, and I’ve been practicing hard to ensure both of these goals,” says the angler. “I have nothing to lose and everything to gain, thus making it easier to change patterns and gamble a little.”

Skeeter's Dean Rojas

Also currently in the top 25 in the AOY race are Skeeter’s Kelly Jordon; last year’s AOY runner-up, Todd Faircloth; Cliff Pace; Elite Series Tennessee Triumph winner, Bobby Lane, and Rookie of the Year leader, Matt Herren.

Herren, who has almost maintained a wire-to-wire lead in the Rookie of the Year race, has some company in the standings, with Skeeter’s Greg Vinson and Mark Burgess in third and seventh places respectively.

Burgess, who hails from the Northeast, lists Oneida Lake as one of his favorites. “I have a good understanding of the largemouth vs. smallmouth equation, and have been working on a strategy that I feel extremely confident about,” says Burgess. Following the Champion’s Choice tournament, Burgess will head to Lake Champlain the following weekend to compete in the Northern Open, seeking a Bassmaster Classic bid.

“Most folks have a love/hate relationship with Lake Champlain, because one poor day of fishing in a tournament and you’re out of contention. Lake Champlain is one of the nation’s leading largemouth/smallmouth fisheries, yet it’s a big body of water, and a place where the weather has tremendous influence on fishing conditions.”

Fellow rookie Vinson knows that after this tournament he is no longer a “newbie,” and the bar will be raised. “To qualify for the Classic in my first year of the Elite Series would prove that I can compete at the highest level,” says Vinson. He knows the wild card at Oneida will be the largemouth bite. “It’s a high risk, high reward lake. I have kept a map of the lake with me at all times since mid-season to remind me of the importance of this event.”

]]> http://www.b2ideas.com/blog/skeeter/team-skeeter-preps-for-final-elite-series-event/feed/ 0 http://www.b2ideas.com/blog/skeeter/skeeter-launches-new-zx170/ http://www.b2ideas.com/blog/skeeter/skeeter-launches-new-zx170/#comments Tue, 04 Aug 2009 15:08:52 +0000 bob http://www.b2ideas.com/blog/?p=373

Skeeter Launches New ZX170 - Big Boat Features in a Small Package

KILGORE, Texas, July 30, 2009 – Skeeter Products, Inc. had plans on the drawing board years ago to round out its popular line-up of ZX Series bass boats, and for 2010 the company introduces the long awaited ZX170 – a model with big boat features in a small package.

The ZX170 has the same look and feel as other models in the ZX Series, including the ZX250, ZX225, ZX200, ZX190 and ZX180, and is packed with many of the same features, design, and construction.

Skeeter's New ZX170

“Current economic conditions did not have any bearing on our development of the ZX170, as this was a key model necessary in filling out our ZX Series line-up, yet its launch does come at an opportune time, providing our nationwide network of dealers with a great boat at a great price point, and continuing Skeeter’s long heritage of manufacturing the best bass boats in the country,” says Ben Jarrett, Skeeter’s National Sales Manager.

In addition to a feature-packed bass boat, the ZX170 comes packaged with a Skeeter single axle trailer with spare tire/carrier and chrome wheels, Humminbird 323 fish finders at both the bow and dash and a Minn Kota Edge, 70 lb. thrust, 42” shaft trolling motor with mount. The ZX170, rated for 90 hp, features reliable outboard engines from Yamaha. With an MSRP of $27,380 powered by a Yamaha F90 four-stroke engine, the ZX170 is sure to provide grassroots anglers or first-time boat buyers everything they want and need for time well spent on the water.

The ZX170 measures in at 17 feet, with a wide 89” beam and 17” depth. Weighing-in at 1,350 lbs. (dry weight), the ZX170 draws a 14” draft, making shallow water bass easier targets, and its 24-gallon fuel tank keeps you on the water longer.

The single console features a cockpit command center with custom gauges and accessory switches, including tachometer, speedometer, fuel, water pressure, 12-V plug and single-cable, non-feedback steering.

Bolstered seating is designed for comfort and support during all water conditions, available in two color selections, pewter and medium neutral. Beneath each seat is a 25-qt. storage compartment for personal items. Drink holders, passenger grab handles and custom non-skid mats add to the boat’s on-board comfort.

Power and performance standard features include manual 800 GPH bilge pump, built-in fuel system, cockpit courtesy lighting, 6 gauge trolling motor wiring system with three battery trays, built in rod staze and stainless steel prop.

Beneath its spacious bow fishing deck, the ZX170 features a 24-qt. ice chest, gear/tackle storage compartment and rod locker capable of holding up to 10 rods. All storage compartments have flush-mounted latches with locking mechanisms. Owners may also opt for fishing chairs with 13” extension, or bike seats with power pro pole.

Under the rear deck, owners will find plenty of storage for gear/tackle and a 21-gallon live well with auto, drain, recirculating, and timer modes.

The ZX170 is built according to strict NMMA standards, and is engineered for a quick hole shot, no chine walking and superb turning and maneuverability. The ZX170 features a no backwash design and a stable platform, and its patented hull provides a smooth and dry ride.

Skeeter Owner Takes Advice from Bassmaster Elite Series Pro – Company Hosts 1,546 Anglers at Owner’s Tournament

Troy Rossman Won the 16th Annual Skeeter Owner's Tournament

KILGORE, Texas, June 23, 2009 – Skeeter owner Troy Rossman of Rowlett, Texas took some advice from Bassmaster Elite Series mainstay and Team Skeeter’s Kelly Jordon, fishing the deep waters of Lake Fork to earn a victory in the 16th annual Skeeter Owner’s Tournament held this past weekend.

Rossman, a Skeeter owner since 2003, bested 1,546 other anglers, weighing in a 9.28 lb. bass, and winning a new Skeeter ZX200 bass boat powered by a Yamaha VZ200. 

“My fishing partner and I were listening to the radio, when we heard Skeeter’s Kelly Jordon suggest fishing deep water,” says Rossman.  “We were fishing in 20 feet of water, and immediately began to fish at a depth of 25 feet when I got the bite.”

Rossman, who won a Bass Champs tournament on Lake Fork in April, caught the largemouth bass off of a Lucky Craft D20 Crankbait, making long casts into underwater timber.

Fun on the Water

Despite the slow economy, Skeeter owners descended on Lake Fork from across the country, with 780 boats competing in the tournament, just 26 shy of last year’s all-time record of 806 boats.

“It seems like just yesterday that we gathered at Lake of the Pines for our first Owner’s Tournament, but that was 1993.  It never ceases to amaze me as to what goes into making this event a success, and we have our owners to thank for that,” says Jeff Stone, General Manager/Senior Vice President of Skeeter Products, Inc.  “Today, Skeeter is the nation’s strongest and fastest growing bass boat brand, and anyone who carries the Skeeter flag does so with great pride,” adds Stone.

Not many people left Lake Fork empty handed, as Skeeter handed out more than $100,000 in cash and prizes to the top 11 finishers each hour.  Chris Coco of Paris, Texas was the random draw winner of a Yamaha 350 4×4 Grizzly.

Skeeter also rewarded anglers in the Junior and Ladies Division, with Cody Clark of Wills Point, Texas weighing-in a 2.68 lb. bass to win the Junior Division, while Janie Shinn of Ben Wheeler, Texas won the Ladies Division with a 2.48 lb. bass. 

In the tournament’s “Guide to Green Shoot Out,” matching Saturday’s hourly big bass winners in a two-hour, five-fish shootout with Team Skeeter professional anglers and local Lake Fork guides, Rhome, Texas native Brett New partnered with Lake Fork guide Brooks Rogers to win the shoot out.  Rogers caught a 2.60 lb. bass on his last cast of the competition, helping to secure the victory.  With the win, New earns an all-expense paid trip for two to the 2010 Bassmaster Classic in Birmingham, Alabama, including VIP credentials.

Skeeter owners were treated to a host of on-site activities, including demo rides, fishing seminars, kid’s casting contest, vendors and a Texas barbeque.  “Everyone at Skeeter takes great pride in the product we produce, and our annual Owner’s Tournament provides us with the opportunity to thank our owners for helping make Skeeter the nation’s number one boat brand,” says Ben Jarrett, Skeeter’s National Sales Manager.

Skeeter Employees Prepared and Served a Texas-Sized BBQ

Jarrett heads up a group of Skeeter employees who cook and serve a Texas-sized meal to owners.  This year’s barbeque featured 500 lbs. of hot links, 1,960 lbs. of brisket, 600 lbs. of potato salad, 80 gallons of Skeeter baked beans, 40 gallons of barbeque sauce, 6,000 bottles of water, 400 cases of soft drinks and one ton of ice.

 

Will Largemouth Bass State Record Fall? - Team Skeeter’s Kelly Jordon Offers Local Knowledge

Anyone can Weigh a Fish during Skeeter's Owner's Tournament

KILGORE, Texas, June 16, 2009 – With Skeeter owners from around the country converging on Lake Fork, Texas this weekend for the 16^th annual Skeeter Owner’s Tournament, breaking the largemouth bass state record may not be obtainable, but a spot in the top 50 could be within reach, according to Team Skeeter and Mineola, Texas native Kelly Jordon.

“Getting into the record books could happen this weekend, but it will take the right technique to do so,” says Jordon, who placed second last weekend in the Bassmaster Elite Series River Rumble on the Mississippi River.  “The first hour of the tournament is key, as the big fish transition from night feeding in shallow waters back into deeper waters.  Shallow water that has deeper water nearby should hold some large fish,” says Jordon.

Jordon recommends a deep diving crankbait, such as Lucky Craft’s D-20, any shad pattern swim bait, or traditional techniques such as a Carolina rig or the Lake Fork Creature.  “Skeeter owners may also want to consider fishing near grass and shallows with a frog, or opting for a 10”-12” worm,” adds Jordon.

Alton Jones Competes in the Guide to Green Shootout.

Lake Fork currently holds the state record for largemouth bass – 18.18 lbs. – set in 1992.  The lake holds the top six spots in the top 10 state record books, and owns 34 of the top 50 spots.  At more than 27,000 acres, Lake Fork is considered the perfect bass habitat.  “Its average depth is 12-15 feet, and consists of underwater structures, including timber, brush piles, flooded dams and farm ponds.  Top water fans will appreciate the vast amount of Hydrilla, Milfoil, lily pads and duckweek,” says Jordon.

Jordon will be joined by several other Team Skeeter professional anglers and Lake Fork guides during the Owner’s Tournament meeting and greeting fans, conducting seminars, and participating in the tournament’s “Guide to Green Shoot Out,” matching Saturday’s hourly big bass winners in a two-hour, five-fish-limit shootout with Team Skeeter professional anglers and local Lake Fork guides.

Joining Jordon for the Owner’s Tournament will be Bassmaster Classic Champion Alton Jones, Harold Allen, Todd Faircloth, Brooks Rogers, Lance Vick, Zell Rowland and Brian Clark, among others.

“Skeeter boats are manufactured in the heart of bass fishing country, with Lake Fork, Toledo Bend, the Red River, Sam Rayburn and hundreds of other great bass fisheries only a short drive from Kilgore,” says Ben Jarrett, Skeeter’s National Sales Manager.  “Lake Fork has such a great reputation for producing quality largemouth bass, that folks come from around the country for a picture perfect lunker,” adds Jarrett.

Skeeter's Tony Chachere Prepares a Delicious Meal.

As with previous years, Bass Champs will be on-hand filming the tournament for The Outdoor Channel, a highlight for many competitors.  “Skeeter owners who fish this tournament get to feel like a professional angler, if just for a weekend,” says Chad Potts, President of Bass Champs.  “Competitors have the opportunity to weigh-in and walk across the stage for an interview with Fish Fishburne, which gives owners a tremendous sense of pride,” says Potts.

This year, Skeeter will give away more than $150,000 in cash and prizes, including a Skeeter ZX200 powered by a Yamaha VZ200 to the overall big bass winner.  Cash payouts will total $3,550 per hour, with each top hourly winner receiving a check for $700, providing 130 chances of walking away with a check during the two-day tournament.  Each person registered for the tournament will have the opportunity to win a Yamaha 350 4×4 Grizzly in a random draw.  Prizes will also be awarded to top anglers in the Junior and Ladies Divisions.

Skeeter hopes to yet again break attendance records at its annual Owner’s Tournament.  Last year’s event was one of the company’s largest Owner’s Tournaments in corporate history, with 1,630 anglers competing from 808 Skeeter boats.

Owners may register on-site at Lake Fork Marina, June 18-19, and before 6:00 a.m. on June 20.  Competition begins at 6 a.m. on June 20 in an hourly big bass format.  The tournament continues at 6:00 a.m. on June 21, with an awards ceremony that afternoon.  Cost is $80 per person for tournament registration only, or $120 for registration plus a Limited Edition Kistler 6’9” Medium/Heavy Casting Rod.  Hourly payouts are based on 800 boats. 

For more information about Skeeter Products, Inc., visit www.skeeterboats.com.