Joe Boutin didn't expect to personally meet Hank Parker for a backstage casting lesson, and never expected his first Bassmaster Classic would have him casting for a $100,000 check. The Prattville, Ala., firefighter was randomly selected from a packed Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex to test his casting skills in the Berkley Cast for Cash contest at the final weigh in.
"The Berkley Cast for Cash contest is designed to engage the audience and hopefully one lucky angler walks away with $100,000," said John Bartow, Berkley Sr. Marketing Director. "It is a fun event that gives the arena crowd a chance to be a major part of the weigh in, and it allows the contestant to get one-on-one training from legendary angler Hank Parker. Joe was a great competitor and had all the right skills to win the check. Unfortunately, Joe missed the mark, but Berkley sent him away with a nice prize pack and a few extra dollars in his pocket."
Boutin chose an Abu Garcia Silver Max baitcast reel/All Star Platinum rod spooled with Berkley Trilene XL fishing line for his $100,000 cast. Hank Parker, legendary bass angler, was on hand to provide one-on-one assistance and casting tips, ensuring Boutin had the best chance to win the cash prize. A seasoned angler, Joe spends much of his time fishing in local tournaments and fishing area lakes.
"I was shocked when Fish Fishburne chose me to participate in the challenge," Joe said. "It was a little nerve racking getting up there in front of the huge crowd, but I've been fishing nearly all my life so I was comfortable with the equipment. One of the best things about the contest was meeting with Hank Parker. I would like to personally thank Berkley for their generosity to my wife and me. It is nice to see that a large company takes an interest in the lives of their consumers. I grew up fishing with Berkley products and continue to do so to this day."
Although he was unable to connect on the 60-foot cast, Boutin, 26, and wife Meagan enjoyed the experience and did not go home empty handed. The rod and reel combos used for the contest plus tackle for him and his family was awarded. And just for participating, the Boutin family took home a consolation check for $5,000.
Media Contact
Kevin Jarnagin
Blue Heron Communications
(800) 654-3766
Kevin@blueheroncomm.com
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