Bass Pro Shops and Division of Tourism sponsoring Missouri Veterans Fishin’ Contest
October 28, 2021
Winner will receive a new Bass Tracker boat
Bass Pro Shops, in partnership with the Missouri Division of Tourism, is sponsoring a video contest that will award a new Bass Tracker fishing boat to a Missouri veteran.
The Missouri Veterans Fishin’ Contest recognizes veterans’ service and encourages military families to spend time together outdoors where they can enjoy the state’s natural beauty.
“My personal respect and gratitude for veterans is deeply rooted. It has been shared by my entire family, especially my dad, John A. Morris,” said Johnny Morris, founder of Bass Pro Shops, headquartered in Springfield. “Growing up as a kid in Missouri, where I learned to hunt and fish, I always knew my father had served in the armed services. It wasn’t until much later in life that he shared with me that he fought in the Battle of the Bulge – one of the most intense conflicts of World War II. I am proud of my dad. His memory serves as an enduring reminder of the selfless courage shared by all who serve our country.”
To enter the contest, veterans living in Missouri are invited to create a video of two minutes or less, sharing their story and why they love to fish. Videos must be submitted by Nov. 1. A panel will review each video and select the winner to be announced on Veteran’s Day, Nov. 11.
“We are pleased to join Johnny Morris and Bass Pro Shops in honoring our state’s veterans,” said Stephen Foutes director of the Missouri Division of Tourism. “The contest will shine a spotlight on those who have served our country and encourage them to get out to their favorite fishing spot – or discover a new one – and experience all that our state has to offer.”
A new Bass Tracker Classic XL fishing boat will be presented to the winner of the contest at the Bass Pro Shops US Open National Bass Fishing Amateur Team Championships on Table Rock Lake in November.
“We are proud of this partnership that is supporting Missouri’s heroes – our Veterans,” Gov. Mike Parson said. “We thank Bass Pro Shops and Missouri Tourism for sponsoring this event and extend a special thanks to Johnny Morris for being a longtime supporter and promoter of our state, the outdoors and Missouri Veterans. Events like these and the support they provide show we are serious about our commitment to becoming the most military and veteran friendly state in the nation.”
To enter or learn more about the Missouri Veterans Fishin’ Contest, visit www.basspro.com/veteransfishing.
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About the Missouri Division of Tourism
The Missouri Division of Tourism works to showcase Missouri experiences through compelling storytelling to inspire travel, support healthy communities and strengthen the state’s economy. In fiscal year 2020, Missouri welcomed 36.3 million visitors and saw a $14.5 billion economic impact. Learn more at VisitMo.com.
