Hank Parker Hooks Up with Lew’s
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Two legendary names in fishing, Lew’s and longtime FLW friend Hank Parker, have teamed in a promotional agreement for 2015.
Hank Parker’s Outdoor Magazine will celebrate its 29th consecutive year on television when its 2015 season begins on Dec. 29. The Lew’s brand got its start in the 1950s, but has been on a rapid resurgence in popularity since new ownership in 2009 reinvigorated the brand with an all-new lineup of rods, reels, combos and accessories.
“Lew’s and Hank Parker’s images and brands have closely paralleled one another over the past three decades, meaning we take our fishing seriously but have a lot of fun in doing it,” notes Lew’s CEO Lynn Reeves. “While the sport will always be about the sheer pleasure of spending time together on the water with family and friends, it’s the avid fishing enthusiasts like Hank that help inspire and educate all ages to get involved in the activity. Our goal is to introduce more people to fishing.”
Parker, who was once introduced during a CBS Morning Show appearance as the “rod-n-reel” equivalent to legendary pro basketball player Michael Jordan in “popularity and talent,” found success first as a bass tournament angler and champion embarking on a full-time career as an outdoor show TV host.
“Knowing the get-it-right product sincerity and passion behind industry veterans, Lew’s partners Lynn Reeves and Gary Remensnyder, like I do, I couldn't be more thankful to have this opportunity to be part of their team,” says Parker. “Like our television show, they have something for all ages, skills and levels of fishing enthusiasts. We’re a great match, and I’m pumped to get the new season started with Lew’s.”
Lew’s plans for Parker include in-show product use, 30-second commercials, Lew’s billboard exposures and having him serve as a spokesperson for the company’s fast-growing American Hero program.
Lew’s launched its American Hero initiative out of genuine respect for America’s military veterans and with a sincere promise to never forget them. The Lew’s American Hero baitcast combo, retailing for about $89.99, was named “Best of Show” in the rod-and-reel combo category at the 2014 ICAST fishing tackle trade show.
American Hero was developed to benefit organizations that use fishing as part of their programs to help veterans return to civilian life after military service. The Lew’s program has already provided fishing gear support to several such groups, including FOCUS Marines Foundation, Reel American Heroes Foundation, Operation HOOAH, Kentucky Pro Bass Warrior Foundation and more.
“Hank is as sincere as we are in his thank-you to our American veterans,” adds Reeves. “He’ll be making that quite clear on episodes of his television show and during public appearances across the country, including at the 2015 Bassmaster Classic and Forrest Wood Cup championship bass events.”
Hank Parker’s Outdoor Magazine airs multiple days and times during the first and second quarters on the Outdoor Channel and Pursuit Channel. Check local television listings for exact show dates and times.
For more information on Lew’s products, pros and American Hero program, visit Lews.com.