Bassmaster Classic Champion and Team Skeeter angler Alton Jones recently received a personal phone call from fellow-Texan, President George W. Bush, congratulating the angler on his world championship, and offering many words of support for the sport of bass fishing.

“My mobile phone range and indicated an “unknown” incoming call,” recalls Jones. “Since my victory, I’ve

already received approximately 300 emails and voicemails, but something in the back of my mind said to

answer this call.”

“The lady on the other end asked if this was Mr. Jones, and I responded that, yes, this is Alton Jones. She said this is Karen from the White House, and I have someone who would like to speak with you.”  Jones says that the President came onto the line and congratulated him on winning the Bassmaster Classic and being a world champion. “Those words are still sinking in. Inside my head I’m high-fiving myself. It’s all so overwhelming,” says Jones.

“The President passed along his admiration for the sport of fishing, and of his great support and love for the outdoors. He said that he had recently visited with 2007 NASCAR Nextel Cup Champion Jimmie Johnson during a White House ceremony, and wanted to extend a similar invitation to me and my family.”

“He said that he would like to take me and my family on a personal tour of the White House, in addition to introducing and honoring me in a ceremony with the White House press corps present.” 

Jones, a Waco, Texas, native, lives a short 20 miles from the President’s ranch in Crawford. Jones plans to visit the White House in mid-March, joined by his wife, three children, and Tom Ricks, Vice President/General Manager of BASS. 

“This is an excellent opportunity to raise awareness of the sport, and the dedication and support that it receives from BASS and its members, as well as professional and recreational anglers nationwide,” says Jones.  Skeeter Products, Inc. makes fishing and boating fun and rewarding with owner’s tournaments, tournament incentives, and a top-notch dealer network.

Skeeter, celebrating its 60th Anniversary, manufactures innovative and high-performing bass, walleye, fish & ski and saltwater boats. Skeeter is the recipient of six consecutive CSI customer satisfaction awards, and its boats are NMMA certified to meet strict U.S. Coast Guard and American Boat & Yacht Council standards. To order a catalog call (800) SKEETER, or visit www.skeeterboats.com.