Torrance, CA- Congratulations to Sunline pro Kyle Welcher on securing the 2023 Bassmaster Progressive Angler of The Year title. Welcher held off a stacked Bassmaster Elite Series field during the 9-event schedule, besting South Carolina pros Brandon Cobb and Patrick Walters to secure his first AOY title. The Opelika, AL pro never finished below 44th place during the 2023 campaign, proving his diversity as an angler from Florida to New York. Logging two top 10, and three top 20 finishes along the way, Welcher utilized a variety of Sunline products throughout the season in both finesse and power fishing scenarios. Kyle was heavily involved in the product development of the newly released Sunline Siglon PE AMZ braided line, which played a major role in his success this season.

Accomplishing the goal of winning a Bassmaster AOY title at such an early stage in his career is something that Welcher doesn't take for granted. "I am super proud that I was able to win AOY and accomplish one of my biggest goals in professional bass fishing. One of the things that helps the most with being consistent is having confidence in your equipment. Trusting Sunline gives me full confidence in every situation. They have the optimal lines for the thickest cover to the most finesse applications." said Welcher.

"Winning Angler of the Year is the ultimate test of an angler and a great honor. It is no surprise that he was so successful this season given his attention to detail and constant drive to improve his tackle systems to maximize his landing percentage. Kyle has been integral in the development of our new AMZ braided line over the past two years and he used it extensively this year. We are proud Sunline products could play a role in his accomplishment this year in securing the prestigious Elite Series AOY title," Nobuyuki Kajio, President Sunline America.

Sunline maintains a top share in the line market in Japan, where it was founded, and exports its line to more than 40 countries worldwide. Sunline America is a subsidiary of Sunline Japan and is responsible for distribution and marketing in North American markets. For more information, please visit http://www.sunlineamerica.com