Lew's Signs Tim Horton

Lew's® proudly announces that Bassmaster Elite Series angler and former BASS Angler of the Year Tim Horton has picked Lew's for his choice of reels, starting immediately. The popular Muscle Shoals, Ala., angler's decision to join Team Lew's® places him among other high profile anglers who have recently signed with the brand that is turning heads in the fishing industry.

"Tim coming on board is certainly another positive statement as to where this company is headed," explained Lew's CEO Lynn Reeves. "Besides being an outstanding fisherman, he's simply the kind of guy we want associated with the American fishing tradition of Lew's."

Horton, known for his offshore deep-cranking skills, has had 27 top 10 finishes in his 15 years along the BASS tournament trail and earned the coveted BASS Angler of the Year award in 2000. He's recorded wins in four of the events and earned more than $1.2 million along the way.

"Of course, we like Tim's successes, but he brings more to the table than just the tournament spotlight," added Gary Remensynder, a longtime industry executive who recently joined Lew's as president. "We've worked together before and I've always had a high regard for how Tim represented himself, his sponsors and the sport of fishing. For example, 13 years of his Fishing for Kids program says a lot about Tim's character."

Horton has already incorporated the all-new Lew's baitcast and spinning reels into his fishing arsenal for 2011. He says he's highly anticipating what the new gear and season will bring.

"I am so excited about working with one of the legendary companies in this industry," Horton said. "What makes it even better is that I have worked with Lynn and Gary throughout much of my career and I am pumped to be teaming with them again. It means a lot to me to be part of a team that takes every aspect of business seriously, from product development to customer relations, and to the dealings with everyone in the company. This new Lew's has become a legitimate brand again in short order, and, knowing these guys like I do, I can assure you it's here to stay."

In addition to Horton, Team Lew's includes David Fritts (N.C.), Glenn Browne (Fla.), Mark Menendez (Ky.), Terry Scroggins (Fla.), Kevin Short (Ark.) and Peter Thliveros (Fla.).

In 2009, Reeves acquired the Lew's name and many affiliated trademarks, including Speed Spool®, Speed Spin®, Laser® and Speed Stick® from the Lew Childre family. Today's product lineup consists of four series of baitcast reels, two series of spinning reels and four series of rods ... all are brand new designs and models.

The company is coming off of several recent successful distributor shows. It will make its first public showing of its entire new product line at the 2011 Bassmaster Classic Outdoor Show, Feb. 18 - 20, in New Orleans. For more information, visit www.Lews.com.