COLUMBIA, S.C. – Adrian Avena began his quest to become an Elite Series pro early in his college career. Through hard work and determination, the young pro qualified through last season’s Bassmaster Northern Opens and will fish the 2016 Bassmaster Elite Series representing industry leaders Abu Garcia and Berkley Fishing.
Avena has made a living as a professional angler in recent years on the FLW Tour. The Jersey Boy has qualified three times for the Forrest Wood Cup, had two Top 10 finishes in the FLW Tour AOY standings, and accumulated over $300K in career earnings – all before the age of 25. However, it isn’t the laundry list of accomplishments that Avena has achieved that led to his signing.
“Adrian has tremendous potential that will greatly benefit both Abu Garcia and Berkley Fishing brands,” said Hunter Cole, senior marketing manager media & PR Pure Fishing. “He is very skilled, but he has a passion for the sport that shows through his performance on and off the water. We are very excited to have him on our team. Through promotional appearances, working with the media and competing on the Elite Series tour, Adrian will be a great representative to our sport.”
Avena will also be working with the brand teams to provide product testing and evaluation for the next wave of new products from Abu Garcia and Berkley.
“Abu Garcia and Berkley Fishing are two of the most recognized brands in the sport of fishing,” said Avena. “I couldn’t be happier that they are giving me an opportunity to be part of their team. This is certainly an exciting time for me. This is equipment that I can trust to elevate my career and fishing to that next level. I look forward to the upcoming season and look to represent these companies on the Elite Series tour.”
Next stop for Avena is the first 2016 Bassmaster Elite Series event on the St. Johns River in Palatka, Fla.