Jeff Gustafson Wins the 53rd Annual Bassmaster Classic

March 27, 2023

Shimano Pro and Ontario native becomes the first Canadian to win the Bassmaster Classic

March 27, 2023 – Charleston, SC – Jeff Gustafson wins the 53rd annual Bassmaster Classic Championship in Knoxville, Tennessee. After three days of intense competition and varying conditions, Shimano team member Gustafson emerged victorious, catching a total of 42 pounds and 7 ounces of Tennessee River smallmouth bass.

Gustafson, a long-time Shimano team veteran known to fans as “Gussy,” exploded out of the gates on day one, utilizing the same “moping” technique that proved successful at the 2021 Elite series stop in Knoxville. At the end of day one, Gustafson jumped ahead of the field with a total weight of 18 pounds, 8 ounces for five fish. On day two, he again brought in the daily maximum of five fish, this time weighing in at a total of 17 pounds, 3 ounces, giving him a commanding lead going into the last day. On the tournament’s final day, Gustafson brought home the win with a 6-pound, 12-ounce bag.

“Shimano could not be more proud of Jeff and his monumental achievement in the sport of bass fishing,” says Bob Mahoney, Freshwater Marketing Manager for Shimano North America Fishing. “Jeff’s confidence to use Shimano gear during the most competitive tournaments in the world is a true testament to our commitment to providing anglers with the best possible tackle systems, no matter the circumstances.”

On the back of his previous success in Knoxville, Gustafson masterfully broke down the water with finesse and precision. Throughout the tournament, he utilized a 7’3” G. Loomis NRX+ Jig & Worm spinning rod featuring the brand’s legendary Multi-Taper design and proprietary Spiral X technology to enhance rigidity without increasing weight for instant power transmission. Gustafson paired his extra-fast action rod with a Shimano Stella 3000 spinning reel loaded with flagship technology for smoother and longer casting performance. Shimano’s soon-to-be-released, 10-pound Mastiff fluorocarbon and PowerPro braid rounded out the winning tackle systems.

Gustafson’s victory marks the first time a Canadian angler has won at the Bassmaster Classic, and his performance will go down as one to remember. To learn more about Gustafson and his full tackle system, visit fish.shimano.com. To find a retailer near you, visit Shimano’s dealer locator. For more information on Shimano and the latest product releases, contact Kade Gewanter at Kadegewanter@darbycommunications.com.

About Shimano North America Fishing

Since 1970, Shimano has been a global manufacturer of industry-leading fishing tackle systems built for anglers compelled by experiences on the water. Shimano designs manufactures and markets a deep lineup of angling-specific products focused on promoting health and happiness through the enjoyment of nature and the world around us. The company proudly maintains a portfolio of four consumer-preferred brands: Shimano, G.Loomis, Jackall, and PowerPro. You can learn more at https://fish.shimano.com/en-US or follow on social @fish_shimano_north_america, @fishgloomis, @jackall_usa, and @fishpowerpro.

Media Contact:

Kade Gewanter

Darby Communications

Kadegewanter@darbycommunications.com

828-254-0914 o / 413-834-1746 c