Tip of the Month...Meet Hank Parker
Hobie Cat Company, the world-renowned manufacturer of sailboats, kayaks, and fishing boats, has renewed its sponsorship of Hank Parker, widely regarded as one of America's greatest bass fishermen. In 2003, Parker was the celebrity spokesman for Hobie Cat's aggressive entry into the fishing boat market that kicked off with the introduction of his signature boat, the Hobie Mirage Outback. As an important part of the sponsorship, Hobie will be showcased and run targeted commercials on the popular Hank Parker's Outdoor Magazine Television Series airing weekly on Outdoor Life Network (OLN). The announcement was made by Dan Mangus, director of marketing for Hobie Cat.

Hank Parker was once described by the CBS "Morning Show" as "the rod-'n-reel" answer to Michael Jordan in popularity and talent. He is a professional bass fisherman and a seasoned competitor in the world of bass fishing tournaments. Hobie Cat is actively using Hank's extensive visibility to help promote their fishing boats. He is an integral part of the company's advertising, promotions, and trade show activities and very hands-on with the engineers and product-development staff.

The Outback is the only high performance, pedal-driven, one-person fishing boat on the market. It is quick, stable, and quiet providing virtually hands-free fishing via its unique fingertip steering system. "It makes inaccessible water accessible over conventional boats, which is a real benefit for me and other serious fisherman…and…it makes fishing a WHOLE lot of fun."

"Hank's enthusiasm is contagious," stated Mangus. "Anybody acquainted with him knows that he does not get behind any product unless it passes his rigorous real-life tests. His endorsement of the Outback has helped us to successfully launch the boat and give it the credibility it deserves."

Since 1950, Hobie has been in the business of shaping a unique lifestyle based around fun, water, and quality products. From their headquarters in Oceanside, California, Hobie Cat Company manufactures, distributes, and markets an impressive collection of watercraft worldwide. These include an ever-expanding line of recreational and racing sailboats, pedal-driven and paddle sit-on-top kayaks, fishing boats, and authorized parts and accessories...more