Musky Expert Jim Saric Now with Shimano Brands
OutdoorHub 04.05.13
Known well throughout musky fishing circles in both the U.S. and Canada, noted angler and educator Jim Saric has signed on with Shimano American Corp. to assist with product development and promotional activities. In announcing the new partnership that will see Saric using Shimano reels and rods, G.Loomis rods and PowerPro braided line, “we are anxious to further expand our efforts into the musky fishing world, and having Jim on board to provide his expertise and input will be invaluable to those efforts,” said Bob Mahoney, Shimano’s marketing manager.
Saric has used Shimano reels over the years, and by popularizing the use of big double-bladed lures to target big muskies in his Musky Hunter magazine and TV show, it helped expand the market for the need of reels such as the Tranx 500HG and 500PG. “Going back to the original Calcutta 400 reel – plus the Tranx and now the new Calcutta D series – Shimano is serious about developing quality musky tackle,” said Saric. “My commitment to the Shimano, G.Loomis and PowerPro products is a bit self-serving – having a company like Shimano focusing on musky tackle – knowing the rod manufacturing capabilities at the G.Loomis facility in Washington – and realizing the popularity of PowerPro braid – will definitely further bring attention and grow the musky fishing market. That’s a positive for musky hunters now and in the future.”
Through his educational efforts, Saric has debunked the myth that muskies are the fish of 10,000 casts. “With muskies now being found in 36 states and three provinces, and an excellent catch-and-release ethic among anglers, the opportunity to catch a trophy fish over 50-inches has never been better,” notes Saric. “With the tackle now available – and knowing some of the future plans for new Shimano and G.Loomis rods being developed – even casual anglers have the chance to quickly boat a trophy musky.”
Going back to 1987 when he filmed his first segment for the Midwest Outdoors television series, Saric has been talking and writing about musky fishing ever since. Owner of Musky Hunter magazine since 1997 – he started writing for it in 1987 – and host of the Musky Hunter television show airing on WFN, Comcast Sports and Fox Sports North, Saric was inducted into the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame in 2012. He has boated more than 1,800 muskies, his biggest being a released 53-pounder.
“Our product staff will tap Jim’s extensive musky fishing knowledge – combine that with our expertise in gears, drags and metal forging, graphite blank construction, plus fibers and braiding – and musky anglers will be reaping the benefits,” Mahoney said. “We can’t make a musky bite your lure, but we can give you the confidence for success with the tackle you use.”
