Pandemic’s Ending! Let’s Stay Outside Anyway

The COVID-19 pandemic drove America back to its outdoor roots. Let’s stay here.

You’re probably familiar with the Bassmaster brand and its parent company, B.A.S.S. You’re probably also familiar with a little thing that happened last year called the COVID-19 pandemic. Millions of Americans used the lockdowns as a time to get connected with Nature…and for many of us, it was a first introduction. In fact, according to the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, 81% of Americans say they spent time enjoying outdoor activities during the pandemic, 31% for the first time.

The pandemic is coming to an end, and we say “hallellujah,” but let’s not forget that the outdoors remains the healthiest place for us … not because of any virus, but because we are human and that is our most natural state. The fact that it’s natural doesn’t mean that it’s instantly intuitive. Many newbies struggle with the basics. That’s why B.A.S.S. has announced a new lifestyle initiative to inspire and educate families as they begin exploring the great outdoors.

The Go Out{side} program encourages a new audience of burgeoning outdoor enthusiasts who can turn to the authorities at B.A.S.S. for guidance on a variety of outdoor topics, including fishing, camping, hiking, cooking, travel, gear and conservation.

Along with the knowledgeable writers and staff from B.A.S.S., Go Out{side} Ambassadors including Chef Jimmy Kennedy, outdoor bloggers and photographers Philip and Corey Hunt from Two Dog Outdoors, tournament angler Kristine Fischer and multispecies kayak angler John Deshauteurs will lend their expertise to the program.

“We hope that people can take our tips and create new memories with their friends and families,” said Deshauteurs. “Getting involved with the Go Out{side} program was important to us because it allowed us to get outdoors as a family even more! Experiencing life with our family is why we do what we do, and to be able to share those experiences with the Go Out{side} team has been such a gift.”

In addition to enjoying a variety of information resources on Bassmaster.com, families can also delve into a variety of outdoor activities during the Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk June 11-13 in Fort Worth, Texas. As part of the Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo, the Go Out{side} Experience will offer fun, free options including inflatable archery, cornhole, jumping dogs, knot tying and more. Kids can even catch their first fish at an on-site catfish pond.

For helpful tips, videos and more information on the Go Out{side} program, visit Bassmaster.com/go-outside.