BIRMINGHAM, Ala. and ROCKVILLE, Md. — The Econo Lodge brand, part of Choice Hotels International Inc. (NYSE:CHH), is the presenting sponsor of two Bassmaster Elite Series tournaments in 2018 and is offering fans the chance to win a day of fishing with professional angler Justin Lucas, a two-time Bassmaster Elite Champion.
“The Econo Lodge guests are outdoor enthusiasts who love to hunt, hike and fish, and are willing to travel long distances to do so,” said Craig Mustard, head of domestic brand management for economy brands for Choice Hotels. “With more than 800 locations, Econo Lodge hotels provide great value and convenience across the United States, with many nearby lakes, rivers, mountains and streams.”
The Econo Lodge brand is the presenting sponsor of the first two 2018 Bassmaster Elite Series tournaments, including the Bassmaster Elite at Lake Martin, February 8-11, in Alexander City, Alabama, and the Bassmaster Elite at Sabine River, April 6-9 in Orange, Texas.
Bruce Akin, B.A.S.S. CEO, applauded the return of Econo Lodge as a presenting sponsor, stating, “Our research tells us that many of the 500,000 B.A.S.S. members across the country enjoy traveling to hot fishing destinations out of town and out of state. Whether competing in tournaments, attending tournaments or just fishing for fun, these avid bass anglers appreciate having a comfortable, reliable and affordable place to stay near their destination lakes.”
The two tournaments are part of the 11-event Bassmaster Elite Series, including nine regular-season tournaments and two postseason events: the Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year Championship on Lake Chatuge, Georgia, and the Bassmaster Classic Bracket at Carters Lake, Georgia.
A total of 110 professional anglers have qualified for the Elite Series, which begins its 13th season at Lake Martin. In 2017, the Econo Lodge brand sponsored Elite tournaments on Toledo Bend at Many, Louisiana, and Lake Dardanelle out of Russellville, Arkansas. In 2016, the brand sponsored the Elite tournament on the Potomac River in Charles County, Maryland.