Mercury Marine has happily handed out thousands of dollars this year to anglers who haven’t caught the big one.

As part of Mercury’s long-time sponsorship of the Ford Ranger BREAM Series it has been giving bream fishers the chance to take home some cash in the form of ‘Bonus Bucks’.

In each of the 13 qualifying rounds, the top-placed pro using either a Mercury or Mariner outboard is given $250, and if they have a MotorGuide trolling motor as well, the ‘Bonus Bucks’ are doubled to $500.

This sort of reaction, posted on the Fishing and Boating magazine website forum, sums it up nicely

“Just wanted to thank all the ABT sponsors for the cash and prizes put up at the recent Tasmanian Qualifying Rounds.

“I was stoked to pick up $500 cash just for running a Mercury/Motorguide combo. I didn't win an event but simply had to be the highest placed boater to be in the $$$...how wicked is that?

“There was plenty of other gear kicking around for boaters and non-boaters alike…how good is it when you simply go out and fish and get the opportunity to pick up some fantastic prizes at the same time.

“Big thumbs up from me to Steve, the crew, and all the supporters of ABT, I'm stoked! Cheers”.

With that sort of enthusiasm, you’ve got to say the future looks bright for the Ford Ranger BREAM Series, which is great for fishing.

2008 marks the fifth consecutive year Mercury has been a major sponsor of the Ford Ranger BREAM Series. At the same time, MotorGuide has again signed on to be naming-rights sponsor for the MotorGuide BASS Electric Series.

For more information about either competition, please go to www.australianbass.com.au or www.bream.com.au . – Brunswick Corporation