After purchasing his first Toyota Tundra in 2010, professional angler Brandon Palaniuk has officially joined Team Toyota for the 2025 fishing season. Palaniuk has been associated with the Toyota Bonus Bucks program for years and attributes his early career success to it.
“I credit the money I made through Bonus Bucks with helping launch my professional career,” Palaniuk stated. He recalled his initial struggles, working at a timber company to support his fishing endeavors before securing sponsorships. “The extra cash from Bonus Bucks checks here and there was a difference maker for me in being able to fund my first year on tour.”
Palaniuk’s career achievements include winning the B.A.S.S. Nation Championship in 2010, becoming a two-time Bassmaster Angler of the Year, and winning six Bassmaster Elite Series events, including his latest win in February 2025 at Lake Okeechobee.
Reflecting on his journey, Palaniuk said, “A big reason I bought that first Tundra was Toyota’s involvement in the sport and because I aspired to be one of the guys on Team Toyota.” He aspired to emulate notable anglers like KVD, Swindle, Ike, and Big Show. “It’s incredibly humbling to be mentioned in the same conversation and on the same team as the anglers I idolized at the start of my career. It’s an honor that I don’t take for granted,” he added.
Dedra DeLilli, vice president of marketing communications at Toyota Motor North America, commented on the new partnership, saying, “Brandon joining Team Toyota is a full circle moment for our involvement in the sport. We are proud to have Brandon join Team Toyota and are excited to continue supporting his career.”
Toyota has been a steadfast supporter of bass fishing in the United States, sponsoring top-level tournaments and the BassmastHER movement. The Toyota Bonus Bucks program supports anglers at various levels. Palaniuk’s addition to Team Toyota enhances this legacy of backing the sport.
Toyota has been present in North America for nearly seven decades and is committed to sustainable mobility through its Toyota and Lexus brands. It employs approximately 64,000 people in the region and is poised to begin manufacturing automotive batteries in North Carolina in the spring of 2025. The automaker currently offers 32 electrified vehicle options.
For more information, visit Toyota’s website at www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.
