BOZEMAN, Mont. (Jan. 16, 2020)–Simms Fishing Products, the preeminent manufacturer of waders, outerwear, footwear, and technical apparel in fishing, today announced the homecoming of two major figures in the bass fishing industry with the signing of Brandon Palaniuk (Rathdrum, ID) and Brent Ehrler (Redlands, CA), rounding out an already impressive roster that spans all three Tours, Open and Series level anglers.
“Welcoming Brandon and Brent back into the Simms family was one of the easiest decisions of my career,” said Patterson Leeth, Simms Community Manager. “We are beyond stoked to see them back representing the Simms brandmark.”
Palaniuk’s move to the Bassmaster Elite Series in 2020 means he’ll be joining forces with Simms Elite Series pro, Seth Feider. Feider is coming off an impressive win on Lake St. Clair and a 5th place finish in Angler of the Year (AOY) points in 2019. Palaniuk will also be joining Jeff Gustafson (Kenora, Ontario) who finished his rookie season on the Elite series in 2019 with a 28th place finish in AOY points. Based on their performance in 2019, both Feider and Gustafson solidified competing spots in the 50th Annual Bassmaster Classic being held March 6-8th on one of bass fishing’s most prolific bodies of water, Alabama’s Lake Guntersville.
“Over the years, I’ve learned that you simply can’t put a price on quality gear when protecting yourself from what Mother Nature throws your way. As anglers we are exposed to some of the harshest elements and there’s no room for sacrifice. Growing up in Idaho I’ve been a fan of Simms since I was a kid because of their great people and products. Needless to say, I’m beyond excited to join this amazing brand.”
Ehrler finished 3rd overall in 2019 on the Bass Pro Tour and will join fellow Simms Pros, Aaron Martens (Leeds, Alabama), Ish Monroe (Oakdale, CA), Casey Ashley (Donalds, SC), Brett Hite (Phoenix, AZ), Cody Meyer (Auburn, CA ), Shaw Grigsby ( Gainesville, FL), James Elam (Tulsa, OK) and Gary Klein (Mingus, TX) in their quest for the RedCrest Cup.
When asked about his decision to return to the Simms brand, Ehrler stated, “I just spent a few days at Simms’ headquarters in Bozeman, MT. Afer my visit, I’ve come to realize that a brand is only as good as the people behind it. I’ve always known Simms product is the best, but I just have to reiterate, the people at Simms truly make it shine.”
In addition to the return of Palaniuk and Ehrler to the Simms squad, John Cox (Debary, FL) will also be joining the Simms team. Aside from his angling prowess, Cox has made a name for himself by pushing the envelope of what’s possible and never being afraid to roll the dice when a win is within reach. He’s currently the only angler at the tour level competing in both the Elite Series and the FLW Pro Circuit.
“When you fish as many tournaments as I do, one thing is for sure, you’re going to face a lot of bad weather,” said Cox. “I can’t afford to not use the most reliable equipment there is and when it comes to rain gear, there’s no doubt in my mind, it’s Simms.”
In addition to Palaniuk and Ehrler, and Cox, Elite Series rookie, Bob Downey (Hudson, WI) will also be representing Simms at the 50th Annual Bassmaster Classic.