ESPN Conservation

BASS and Team Marine USA LLC announced Wednesday the availability of the BASS Pro Fizz FZ-1 tool, which is used to remove air from the swim bladder of fish typically caught at depths greater than 18 feet.

The BASS Pro Fizz FZ-1 tool is a revolutionary product that will enhance the process of fizzing, a technique which is recommended on fish that show signs of over-inflated swim bladders. The February 1997 study in the North American Journal of Fisheries Management journal supports that the practice is beneficial for improving the post-release survival of bass.

The BASS Pro Fizz FZ-1 is the newest addition to the family of fizzing tools made by Tampa-based manufacturer Team Marine USA. A portion of the sales from the device will benefit BASS Conservation. BASS and Team Marine worked together to create the freshwater device, a reusable fizzing tool made from aircraft-grade aluminum with stainless steel components.

"We are extremely honored to be associated with a great organization like BASS, which was founded on and is committed to conservation," said Jeff Strane, president and founder, Team Marine USA. "The FZ-1 is a necessary tool for all anglers who care about fish conservation as well as angler safety."

BASS Conservation implements programs with BASS Federation Nation chapters and leads initiatives in Washington, D.C. BASS' conservation director Chris Horton serves on a variety of coalitions, task forces and committees with government agencies and industry partners for the improvement of natural resources for all anglers.

"This BASS Pro Fizz product will serve as a useful tool in anglers' tackle boxes to help protect our resources and conserve our fisheries," Horton said. "Conservation issues are constantly evolving and BASS continues to remain at the forefront spearheading improvements in fish habitat, angler access and education and resource management."

The BASS Pro Fizz FZ-1 is currently available at Bass Pro Shops and will soon be in stock at more than 1,200 outdoor retailers. The tool is also available at Teammarineusa.us or by calling 888-464-6423.

For more information on proper fish care and BASS' Keeping Bass Alive booklet, click here.

About Team Marine USA LLC
Team Marine USA, headquartered in Tampa, Fla., has become known as an industry innovator and pioneer with leading products such as the Pre-Vent Pro Series PV-1, Angler Series PV-2, Pro Mini PV-3, Pro-Fizz FZ-1 as well as a series of commercial grade de-hooking tools. Team Marine products are sold at more than 1,200 locations worldwide and at Teammarineusa.us. All products are proudly made in the USA and provide anglers with a true "no questions" lifetime warranty.

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