After more than four decades on the water, Skeet Reese is closing out a legendary chapter in competitive bass fishing. The 2024 Bass Fishing Hall of Fame inductee, 2007 Bassmaster Angler of the Year, 2009 Bassmaster Classic Champion, and one of the founding voices behind Major League Fishing, announced that 2025 will be his final season competing on the MLF Bass Pro Tour.
But make no mistake Reese isn’t leaving the fishing world. He’s simply shifting gears.
While stepping away from tournament competition, the Auburn, California native plans to double down on growing his new brand, Reese Fishing, and continue working closely with longtime sponsors in a larger promotional role.
A Career That Changed the Game
Reese’s journey began like many West Coast pros grinding it out in the local circuits like WON Bass and West Coast Bass. He broke onto the national stage through the Bassmaster Western Invitationals, earning his way into the Bassmaster Tour and ultimately becoming one of the sport’s most recognizable figures.
Over his career, he fished more than 300 professional events, stacking up 12 wins, 84 top-10 finishes, and over $4 million in earnings. He’s competed in 19 Bassmaster Classics, 3 REDCREST Championships, 2 Forrest Wood Cups, and even a Red Man All-American, leaving few milestones untouched.
But Skeet’s influence went beyond weigh-in bags and trophies. He was among the first to understand that bass fishing could be a brand. From the unmistakable black-and-yellow color scheme to custom intro music and on-stage charisma, Skeet turned himself into a one-man marketing machine. He was also the first angler to commit to the Bassmaster Elite Series when it launched in 2005.
A Businessman at Heart
His impact on the business side of the sport is equally impressive. From pioneering sponsorships with Lucky Craft, Lowrance, Mercury, and more, to launching the Skeet Reese signature rod line in 2009 which has sold hundreds of thousands of “yellow rods” worldwide Skeet built a blueprint that many modern anglers still follow.
Now, with the launch of Reese Fishing, Skeet is putting that same drive into building high-performance rods backed by a family-run mission. Alongside his wife Kim and their daughters, he’s crafting gear that helps everyday anglers chase their own fishing dreams.
A Message of Gratitude
Reflecting on his career, Skeet doesn’t take a single moment for granted.
“I only dreamed of fishing for a living as a kid growing up in Northern California. I never imagined it would turn into all this,” he said. “I’ve had partners that became like family, leagues that gave me a platform, and fans who showed up year after year. I’m grateful beyond words.”
He continued, “To Kim, Lea, and Courtney you’ve been my everything. I couldn’t have done this without you. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.”
“This ride has been incredible, and I’ll bring the same passion and effort to Reese Fishing. We’re going to build the best rods out there, and I can’t wait for what comes next.”
You can watch Skeet’s retirement announcement and hear directly from him on his Facebook or Instagram.
🎣 About Reese Fishing
Built on four decades of elite tournament experience, Reese Fishing is more than a gear company it’s a family-run brand dedicated to helping anglers succeed on the water. Every rod is crafted with purpose, performance, and a passion for the outdoors. Learn more or shop the latest lineup at ReeseFishing.com.
