You may have heard rumors recently about a merger between the Texas Association of Bass Clubs (TABC) and Texas Black Bass Unlimited (TBBU). The truth is that these two influential organizations have combined their interests to produce a single, bimonthly publication: Texas Bass Magazine.

A Long-Awaited Partnership

The idea of a joint venture first surfaced in 1996 when Leonard Ranne, then President of TBBU, considered combining efforts with the popular bass tournament association. While the idea was initially shelved, the new officers of TBBU determined a year later that the merger was not only possible but beneficial.

Both groups bring significant strengths to the table:

• TABC provides a larger subscriber base and an established network of advertisers.
• TBBU brings a dedicated membership focused on conservation and fundraising.

By pooling their resources and similar interests into one publication, both organizations believe they can increase the quality of the content while appealing more broadly to subscribers, advertisers, and sponsors.

Finalizing the Details

After extensive discussion, representatives from TABC and TBBU met in Austin at the Texas Parks & Wildlife Expo to finalize the details. The inaugural issue of the new magazine is scheduled for release in January 1998.

It is important to note that while the magazine is a joint effort, both organizations remain distinct entities with their own Boards of Directors. "Each organization still retains its own identity," says Ed Parten, the new President of TBBU.

Leadership and Vision

The new joint publication will be guided by an experienced team:

• Editor/Vice President: Pat McCarty
• TBBU Leadership: Ed Parten (President), Lindy Ellason (Treasurer), and Sandy Muegge (Secretary).
• TABC Leadership: Bill Bales (President), Bob Ryon (Vice President), and Mary Ann Debenport (Secretary/Treasurer).

According to Ed Parten, feedback from the members has been overwhelmingly positive. "I have not heard one complaint," Parten noted. "With our new editor, Pat McCarty, at the helm, I see nothing but bigger and better things on the horizon."

What Readers Can Expect

Pat McCarty promises that Texas Bass Magazine will offer enhanced content, including:

• Comprehensive coverage of TABC tournament activities.
• Status reports on TBBU fundraising and ongoing conservation projects.
• Regular updates from Texas Parks & Wildlife in Austin.
• Insights from professional anglers like David Wharton, Kathy Majors, and Tommy Martin.
• Features from veteran writers such as Bill Cannan and Jim Binns.

This merger marks an exciting chapter for the Texas fishing industry. Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an issue!

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Contact Information

Texas Black Bass Unlimited (TBBU)

• Phone: 1-888-588-8228
• Website: www.tbbu.com
• Email: tbbu@tbbu.com

Texas Association of Bass Clubs (TABC)

Email: tabc@netdot.com

Phone: 214-569-6124

Website: www.tabc-online.org