Mazurkiewicz and Shimano North America part company after more than three decades

John Mazurkiewicz, the familiar face behind Shimano North America Fishing’s PR efforts for more than 30 years, has ceased working for the company.

But the owner of Catalyst Marketing in South Bend Indiana, plans to continue his strong connections with the industry. Along with his pro bono efforts to support the fishing industry, ‘Mazurk’, as he is known to his many friends in fishing, is the current President of the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame, where he has been a Board member for 11 years, and Chairman of the American Sportfishing Association’s (ASA) PR/Communications Committee (13 years). He is also a member of the ASA’s Sportfishing Political Action Committee.

He will be continue his support for the Centre for Sportfishing Policy, IGFA, the Smallmouth Bass Alliance and other organisations, as well as pursuing media relations and project work in the fishing arena. Reflecting on his three decades with Shimano, he said: “Oh my gosh, has it really been that long? Sure, it’s a little disappointing [leaving Shimano] after more than three decades, but I’m far from being done.

“I plan to take a few days off to relax, do some office file cleaning and perhaps go ice fishing if I can find some safe ice.”

Mazurkiewicz will be well remembered by visitors to the ICAST show for his hosting of the company’s traditional new product launch to the media on the first morning of the event.

Shimano North America Fishing, which includes the G. Loomis, PowerPro and Jackall brands, has appointed King Eider Communications to handle public and media relations efforts. The new company is headed-up by Dena Vick (left), formerly with Traditions Media.