Ashland City, Tennessee (January 22, 2025) – Caymas Boats, a leader in premium fiberglass boat manufacturing, is excited to announce the addition of three elite anglers to its Prostaff team for 2025. This announcement marks a special moment in Caymas’ rich history of partnering with some of the finest anglers in the sport. Each of these extraordinary talents brings not only accolades and expertise but also a connection to the Earl Bentz legacy.
Casey Ashley:
Casey Ashley’s name is synonymous with competitive fishing excellence. A former Bassmaster Classic Champion (2015), Ashley’s career has been defined by his strategic precision and calm determination under pressure. With multiple Bassmaster Elite Series wins, including victories at the 2011 Elite Series on Lake Murray and the 2014 Elite Series on Lake Hartwell, Ashley has solidified his place among the sport’s most decorated anglers. His ability to consistently perform in high-stakes competitions and his reputation as a versatile and composed angler have earned him widespread admiration.
His professional journey began in an Earl Bentz-built boat, and his return to Caymas Boats is a significant milestone that connects his past achievements to a promising future.
“Being back with Earl Bentz feels like coming home,” said Ashley. “The values this company stands for and the performance of its boats align perfectly with how I approach fishing. I’m excited to be part of the family again and to continue building on this incredible journey.”
Michael Neal
Michael Neal’s career began with an Earl Bentz-built boat as he fished alongside his uncle, Tennessee River legend Rogne Brown. Neal has since carved out an illustrious career as one of the top anglers in the world, earning respect and admiration throughout the fishing community. Known for his tenacity and consistent performance on the water, Neal’s homecoming to Caymas Boats is a testament to the bond forged through shared values of excellence, precision, and innovation. He secured his first major victory at the 2021 MLF Bass Pro Tour Stage Seven on Lake St. Clair, setting a Championship Round record with 168 pounds, 11 ounces of smallmouth bass. In 2021 and 2022, Neal clinched back-to-back Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Angler of the Year titles, becoming the third pro to achieve consecutive AOY honors. He continued his winning streak with a victory at Stage Seven of the 2024 Bass Pro Tour on the St. Lawrence River. Beyond his on-water achievements, Neal operates Real Deal Tackle in Dayton, Tennessee, contributing to the local fishing community.
“I’m thrilled to be back where it all started,” said Neal. “Coming onboard with Earl Bentz and Caymas Boats has felt like a homecoming for me. While I have only had my boat for a short period of time, I am extremely impressed with how well my CX 21 handles rough water, and the fit and finish of the boat is second to none.”
J.T. Thompkins:
At just 23 years old, J.T. Thompkins has already established himself as one of the most promising young talents in the fishing world. In 2023, Thompkins won Angler of the Year in the Bassmaster Opens, securing his place in the Elite Series, a feat that few anglers achieve at such a young age. He competed out of a Caymas CX 20 in his qualifying AOY season , Thompkins exemplifies the brand’s dedication to supporting rising stars and fostering excellence. In 2024, he continued to impress with strong performances in Elite Series events, further cementing his reputation as a formidable competitor.
“Joining the Caymas Prostaff is an honor,” said Thompkins. “Caymas Boats was an essential part of my 2023 season when I qualified for the Elite Series and won the AOY. I’m excited to continue this journey with a brand that truly understands what anglers need to succeed.”
Welcome Home
The addition of Neal, Ashley, and Thompkins to the Caymas Prostaff marks an exciting time just before the 2025 season gets started for Caymas Boats and its founder, Earl Bentz. With decades of experience crafting innovative, high-performance boats, Bentz has built Caymas into a brand that stands for unmatched quality, durability, and a passion for the water.
“This isn’t just about adding incredible talent to our Prostaff; it’s about bringing family home,” said Bentz. “Michael, Casey, and J.T. represent the heart and soul of what Caymas is all about – innovation, performance, and the drive to succeed. We are proud to have them represent our brand and look forward to seeing them thrive on the water.”
Caymas Boats: A Legacy of Innovation and Excellence
Caymas Boats is committed to building world-class fiberglass fishing boats designed to meet the demands of professional anglers and recreational enthusiasts alike. With a relentless focus on performance, craftsmanship, and cutting-edge design, Caymas continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible on the water.