BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. Nation is the new name of the B.A.S.S. Federation Nation. The name change was announced to leaders of the B.A.S.S. Federation Nation during the annual presidents’ meeting, held in conjunction with the 2012 Cabela’s Bassmaster Federation Nation Championship.

The potential name change had been discussed with state leadership over the course of the past year.

"The B.A.S.S. Nation name is being adopted for a number of reasons,” explained Don Corkran, director of the B.A.S.S. Nation. “First, it is expected to enhance our opportunities to grow the grass-roots membership of B.A.S.S. because it better encompasses all we do in addition to fishing competition, including youth initiatives, conservation efforts, promotion of the sport and among fellow bass anglers.

“We also consider the term ‘Federation’ to be a bit outdated, while ‘Nation’ better fits our organization in this era of social networking,” continued Corkran.

The name change will become effective Jan. 1, 2013, although the transition will likely take time to evolve.