Bassmaster Magazine 500 Issues

I have been fishing all my life and fell in love with bass fishing at about ten years old. My Dad made a make-shift bass boat, I later bought a 16′ Alumnicraft bass boat and then a Procraft 1750 with a 150 HP motor. I even belonged to the Stone Mountain Bassmaster Club and won a tournament at Lake Oconee. I always read my Grandpa’s Field and Stream magazine and started subscribing to Bassmaster Magazine probably sometime in the 1980s.

It was around 1993 when I became a Life Member of the Bass Angler Sportsman Society (B.A.S.S.) and have been receiving Bassmaster Magazine’s ever since. B.A.S.S. is a prominent fishing membership organization, with more than half a million members, dedicated to promoting and advancing the sport of bass fishing. Founded in 1967 by Ray Scott in Montgomery, Alabama, B.A.S.S. has grown into one of the largest and most influential organizations in the world of competitive fishing.

The members come from various backgrounds and levels of expertise in bass fishing, including professional anglers, amateur anglers, and fishing enthusiasts. B.A.S.S. is well-known for organizing and hosting a wide range of bass fishing tournaments and competitions. The most famous of these is the Bassmaster Classic, often referred to as the “Super Bowl of Bass Fishing.” This premier event attracts top anglers worldwide to compete for substantial prizes and the coveted title of Bassmaster Classic Champion.

It has a strong commitment to conservation and the preservation of bass fisheries and their habitats. They actively promote catch-and-release practices and work closely with various environmental organizations to protect the sport’s future. B.A.S.S. has a significant media presence, including its own television programs, magazines, and a website that provides fishing tips, news, and updates related to the bass fishing world.

Their media outlets serve as valuable resources for anglers looking to enhance their skills and stay informed about the latest developments in the sport. The organization places a particular emphasis on engaging and educating young anglers. They run youth programs and scholarships to encourage the next generation to become stewards of the sport and the environment.

B.A.S.S. members often enjoy various benefits, including access to exclusive content, discounts on fishing gear and equipment, and opportunities to connect with like-minded anglers through local B.A.S.S. chapters and clubs. B.A.S.S. actively engages in advocacy efforts to protect the interests of anglers and the sport of bass fishing. They work with policymakers and government agencies to address issues related to fisheries management and regulations.

The September/October 2023 issue of Bassmaster Magazine was their 500th. The magazine started out quarterly, at some point was up to 11 issues a year and now is at 9 yearly mailings. After reading a Bassmaster Magazine I’m ready to hit the water. The articles are always educational even after reading for this many years.