Bill Lowen fishing “In memory of Billy Backman”

North Bend, OH – Two-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier Bill Lowen may appear on camera to be all alone on the front of his boat in hopes of winning the 2009 Bassmaster Classic and Angler of the Year titles but that is far from reality.  He is joined each day by the memory of Billy Backman, a close friend that died in 2001.
“Billy Backman and I shared a bond in the outdoors from the time we started hunting and fishing together on the Ohio River.  We shared the dream of competing on Tour and winning the Bassmaster Classic.  Unfortunately, Billy got into some bad habits with a group of friends and kept it a secret from his family and friends.    We all took the news of his death very hard.  After grieving the loss of their son the Backmans decided they wanted to help me pursue a professional fishing career.  They knew about the dreams that Billy and I shared.  They have been my biggest supporters for the past four years.  I can never repay them for that but if this helps one person stay on the right path then at least it is a start,” said Lowen.

Lowen will be joined in this endeavor by Lafayette, LA-based Feather ‘Flage “Ducks in a Row” camo and Post Falls, ID-based Buck Knives.  The boat/truck wraps and tournament jerseys are adorned with the Feather ‘Flage “Ducks in a Row” pattern and legendary Buck Knives.

“This story captivated us from the very outset.  When we heard about what Bill Lowen was doing to honor his friend’s memory we had to be a part of it.  All of us that enjoy time in the outdoors have created strong relationships by spending together in a blind or on a boat.  The draw of the outdoors is the time away to clear your head and think about all the great things in life.  Friendships are at the heart of those feelings.  Bill’s story is a perfect example of that,” Brian Frederick, President of Feather ‘Flage “Ducks in a Row” camo.

“Every person that heads outdoors carries two very special things with them; their favorite knife and either a good friend or the memories of a good friend.  We wish Bill the best this year as he competes to win on the Elite Series and the Bassmaster Classic,” Bob George, National Sales Manager of Buck Knives.
“The support of great companies with stellar products like Feather ‘Flage “Ducks in a Row” camo and Buck Knives makes this a very special platform for me and a tremendous tribute to Billy,” said Lowen.

Bill Lowen will compete February 20 -22 in the 2009 Bassmaster Classic.  For instructional tips, new products and the Lowen Fan message board visit www.billlowen.com.

Adaptable for “All game and terrain”, Feather ‘Flage “Ducks in a Row” camo retails a full line of hunting apparel and is now launching Fish Fanatic “Fish in a Row” casual wear.  For more information on Feather ‘Flage or Fish Fanatic contact Donna Frederick at 866-DUK-CAMO, visit www.featherflage.com or booth #512 at the Bassmaster Classic Expo in Shreveport, LA.

Arguably the most famous name in sports cutlery, Buck Knives are available in a wide range of designs, made specifically for end users in three categories: Outdoor Life which encompasses hunting, camping & hiking, fishing, and survival.  Rounding out the categories is Everyday tools and legacy collectibles.   For more information contact Jennifer Gish at 800-326-2825 x-208 or jgish@buckknives.com.