Matt Reed elected president of PAA

Matt Reed has been elected President of the Professional Anglers Association by the PAA Board of Directors.

Reed, 51, of Madisonville, Texas has been a member of PAA since its inception and has previously served as PAA Treasurer (2011-2012). He currently competes on the PAA Tournament Series and Bassmaster Elite Series. When he is not fishing competitively, Reed stays busy with guiding on Sam Rayburn, Toledo Bend and Falcon Lake. His hobbies include golfing, deer hunting and most anything outdoors.

Nominees from the membership are accepted each year for PAA Board of Directors positions and then voted on by PAA Tour- and Legends- level members. Board members then nominate and vote on candidates for Officers.

Other officers elected for the 2013-14 term are Vice-President Brian Snowden of Missouri, Treasurer Johnny Grice of Texas and Secretary Kelly Power of Missouri. Snowden joined the PAA in 2005 and has previously served as PAA Secretary (2011-2012) and PAA Treasurer (2012-2013). Grice joined PAA in 2006 and Power joined in 2009. Both Grice and Power will serve their first terms as a PAA Officer this year.

“I am honored to have been elected as president of the Professional Anglers Association by my fellow board members. “I will take the reigns and lead us forward with intent to do what is best for our members,” says Reed. “I have been involved in fishing my whole life and want desperately for the sport to be better for future anglers.”

Reed noted the PAA’s successes in the last year, including growth of membership, the development of and involvement in new youth fishing programs, the growth of the PAA Tournament Series fields and the continuation of PAA’s association with the no-entry Toyota Texas Bass Classic for 2013 and 2014.

“I remember our first meeting at Table Rock Lake and have been a member since that day. I strongly believe that we can improve the position we have as professional anglers. The PAA is committed to working to provide better opportunities for its anglers. With our standing as a non-profit organization, we have the possibility to return more sponsor money into our tournament purses. Now comes the most important part, we need our members to show their full support in our events so we gain a stronger place in professional fishing. Help me make the PAA more successful. The Toyota Texas Bass Classic is a tremendous no entry fee event that stands as a true combined world championship. We are proud to be part of that event,” says Reed.

“I promise you that I, along with all of my fellow board members will work diligently to make the PAA a desired organization to be a part of. I will keep the mission of the PAA in highest regard as we move ahead in the coming year. There are always great challenges ahead, but with the support of our members we can become stronger and offer greater benefits to all.”