10/06/2002 - Deland, FL. .... Two of the best anglers in the world met up this week in Deland, Fl. during the Southeastern Outdoor Press Assn. annual conference. Jay Yelas, reigning BASS Masters Champion and FLW Angler Of The Year, found a chance to visit with Mark Sosin, host of Mark Sosin's Outdoor Journal, one of the most highly-rated television fishing programs. Sosin is author of more than 3,000 fishing articles and 28 books on fishing and a member of both the Fresh Water and International Fishing Halls of Fame.
Yelas addressed the 250+ members of SEOPA, which is the largest regional outdoor writer association. Yelas, who is sponsored by Yamaha Outboards and Skeeter Boats, among many other national brands, shared what it felt like to win the Classic and how his two prestigious titles have affected his life. The biggest challenge, he said, was that his fishing time had been restricted since the win.
Yelas spent time on the water with many of the attendees, showcasing a Yamaha-powered Skeeter fishing boat, signing autographs and posing for photos. Yelas' appearance is the first time a BASS Masters Classic Champion appeared at a press association's breakout day for interviews and to answer questions. Yelas said he's been on the road nonstop since winning the Classic in July. During his visit, Jay received a surprise gift from Joe Landwerlen of Gator Grip, a special engraved tournament measuring board, commeorating his Classic win.
Yelas shared the speaker's platform with conference keynote speaker Dean Kesell, ESPN VP and general manager of B.A.S.S. who shared the communications giant's expansion plans for increased coverage of the traditional outdoor recreation pursuits of hunting, fishing and camping. He noted how ESPN's contribution to NASCAR coverage, which helped grow that sport and that the commitment to outdoor programming will make significant gains for outdoor recreation enthusiats.