Bruce Holt

Bruce Holt (1948 – 2021) So many aspects of the bass fishing industry have seen success over the years due to efforts from people like Bruce Holt. While he fished local bass tournaments and promoted the sport in nearly everything he did, his involvement on the ‘business’ side is what qualifies him for induction into the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame. His contacts with the industry led to the success of G. Loomis Rods – he identified up-and-coming pro anglers and his support to them led to success in their careers – his life and career mirrors the mission of the BFHOF – celebrating, promoting and preserving the sport of bass fishing.

Bruce was involved in the fishing industry for nearly 45 years prior to passing in 2021 after his battle with cancer. He was a quiet, yet very influential force within the bass fishing world in roles that spanned the gamut – senior executive with an international fishing rod brand where he was also involved with bass rod research and development, writer and photographer with credits in leading media outlet, and was known for uncovering key bass waters – El Salto in Mexico, Choke Canyon in Texas, Peacock bass in the Amazon, and the smallmouth-filled waters of the Columbia River to name a few – that over the years became well-known from the ‘fam trips’ he organized with bass fishing media from around the globe.

Through his 34-year career with G. Loomis Rods, Bruce had a key role in the manufacturer’s rise to being one of the world’s most highly respected, high-performance rod makers. An avid bass angler, Holt played a large part as G. Loomis expanded its salmon and steelhead rod roots from being located in the Pacific Northwest to a major emphasis on the bass fishing market. He contributed to G. Loomis’ success in numerous positions over the years, from being in charge of sales and marketing before Shimano’s acquisition of the company in 1997, to a nearly a decade-long stint as executive director and then returning to his media communications and public relations role during his last decade with the company.

During the early days in the growth of professional bass fishing circuits, Bruce identified and supported many upcoming anglers, including Ricky Green, Greg Hackney, Luke Claussen, David Walker and Mark Rose who have all found success in the pro ranks. He further gave back to the industry by serving on Bass Fishing Hall of Fame Board of Directors for 10-plus years, including being the Board vice president during major decisions about the Hall’s future.