Reese: Wright & McGill 5/19/2009



Official word on Skeet Reese's new rod deal arrived today from his media representative: The reigning Bassmaster Classic Champion has inked a deal with Wright & McGill Co. (parent company of Eagle Claw) to produce a new line of Skeet Reese Signature Tessera rods.

According to the release, the line will be based on the competitive needs of one of the world�s best anglers, combined with the technological expertise of one of the industry�s most well-known manufacturers. It will feature nine technique-specific models designed by Reese to fit his own fishing style and the most popular fishing techniques being utilized today � from dropshotting to flipping and pitching, swimbaits, crankbaits and jerkbaits.

The new lineup will be constructed using Wright & McGill�s proprietary S-Curve blank technology � a new process of blank construction that blends a precise mixture of materials in a specific process for assembly. It results in a thin-diameter blank weighing less than conventional construction, but without sacrificing durability. The result of the S-Curve construction and premium components is a premium bass-fishing rod that would make a Bassmaster Classic champion proud, while making it affordable for the angling public.

The line will make its industry debut at ICAST in Orlando, Fla. in July. MSRPs are expected to be $89-$99.

�I am very excited about this new partnership with Wright & McGill,� said Reese. �I have always wanted to be able to produce a premium fishing rod that would be at a price point that every angler would be able to afford; Wright & McGill Co. has given me that opportunity.

�It was not easy to make the decision to leave Lamiglas, as they have always been very good to me. But this new project will allow me to build the rods I�ve always wanted to build at a price point that everyone can afford. And with Wright & McGill�s distribution network, we will be able to provide many anglers a chance to experience their quality construction and affordability.�

Wright & McGill marketing director Chris Russell said the company is excited to join forces with Reese. �The thought of working with a Bassmaster Classic Champion and (2007) Angler of the Year is certainly thrilling. Skeet has a real understanding of the business of the fishing industry and a real sense of what the fishing public needs and wants. When coupled with his skill as an angler and his work ethic, he represents a tremendous asset � one we are proud to enter into this project with."

Reese said the rods fit his style, both as an angler and a marketing icon. �The components are the best available and the blanks are some of the most technologically advanced I�ve ever seen,� he said. �The look of the rods will certainly be aggressive, reflecting my personal trademarks. I think everyone will see them for the revolutionary product they are.�

Wow, didn't expect that one. He's been a Lamiglas guy for a long time.
Still look forward to at least seeing what they come up with. Sage is supposed to branch out from the Fly and Salmon game and come out with a line of bass rods this year as well so look for them to go after a big name to get in the market.

As long as they meet Skeet's expectations, then---->Sweet action!

Figured something was going on. At the last event, when BassFan reported on his equipment, his rods were "unnamed".

what the [censored]. skeet reese using eagle claw rods? thats funny. everybody will buy them "JUST TO SEE"

I wonder if his new rods will come in a 6 piece?

I bet they will be a Skeet Reese Signature Series that will be yellow....

Didnt take too long before the devil came along.

You know the rods will have some sort of yellow and black in them for sure. It will definitely be interesting to see the rods at ICAST this year.

Something about lipstick on a pig.

I can't say for sure, but the marketing guy in me says Eagle Claw may be UNDER-pricing themselves out of the market.

Many bass fishermen have become conditioned to believe that high-quality rods should cost over $150 (I think that's a safe number). By putting these rods out there at less than a $100, do you think they might be doing themselves a disservice?

And nine models? That seems a little lean to me for what's supposed to be a premier rod line. Maybe they'll expand?

Let the guy make his money as he sees fit!!

Lamiglass should not be dissappointed. At the end of the day, Lamiglass were still the rods of choice that help put Skeet Reese on the map! Also, Lamiglass has a Skeet series of rods. But they dont give him many options. Also, Lamiglass chose to sell them around $260, that price may have prevented a large demand and Skeet took note of that and felt it was time for change and more money! Now is the time for Skeet to capitilize on himself/name right now and I dont blame him. KVD is making hay on his endorsement stuff.