Skeet Reese Is Officially a Bass Fishing Hall of Famer

“Aw, schnikies! You guys got me on this one this morning," admitted a clearly emotional Reese.

Did he ever think he’d make this kind of mark on the sport? “No, I’ve really just been me. I love the sport. I love catching fish. I love the industry. I love creating. I love making money. I love the business challenges and the friendships I’ve made over the years. I always figured I’d make it in [to the Hall of Fame] someday, but I wasn’t ready to make it in yet. I feel like I’m not done making my mark on the sport. But I’m very grateful, very thankful.”

As one of the top five money winners of all time, and one of the few anglers in history to win both the Bassmaster Angler of the Year title (2007) and the Bassmaster Classic (2009), along with an incredible list of victories from every circuit he's fished, and a successful track record of product development and signature tackle sales, Reese certainly has the credentials worthy of this recognition. 

But for me, Skeet is an angler that shaped the sport in a positive way through some critical times in its development. When I think back through my memories of tournament bass fishing over the past twenty years, there’s no way to picture that scene without him. Not only was Skeet a decent bet to win any tournament, anywhere, he was always entertaining to watch. He understands the importance of developing himself as a brand and a unique character, which has been critically important to the growth of the sport. By being open and genuine with the fans about your passion, you make them feel like they know you; you give them stories they can follow; you give them something to cheer about. And that approach continues to this day. To me, that's a Hall of Famer.

The annual induction ceremony for Reese and the rest of the 2024 field will be held on September. 26, 2024, at Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium in Springfield, Missouri.

To learn more about the efforts of the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame and to become a member, go to www.bassfishinghof.com.