Card of the Day: Tony Gwynn 1997 Upper Deck Shimano #6

Product Highlight: 1997 Upper Deck Shimano

When you think of professional fishing, trading cards certainly aren’t the first thing that come to mind.  Sure, we’ll find cards pertaining to fishing popup in sets like Allen & Ginter, Goodwin Champions, and Sportkings.  Even in the early 90’s we had some Pro League Bass sets make an appearance.  Nothing of major importance though.

In the sports card industry, fishing cards are kind of odd.  One very small set that you don’t see often is made by Upper Deck.  In 1997, Upper Deck partnered with Shimano.  For those not familiar with Shimano, they are a large manufacturer of fishing, bicycling, and rowing equipment.  This “Special Edition” set only consists of five cards.  Two of the names I’m sure you’ll recognize.

• Bob Izumi #1
• Jimmy Houston #2
• Jose Wejebe #3
• Larry Dahlberg #4
• Jay Buhner #5
• Tony Gwynn #6

I had no clue that Jay Buhner and Tony Gwynn were such big fishermen.  According to the cards, Jay Buhner’s favorite Shimano reel to fish with is the Chronarch 100A, and enjoys fishing with Ken Griffey, Jr. and Norm Charlton.  Tony Gwynn likes to fish for bass, while his favorite places to fish are Lake Poway and the Pacific Ocean.

Obviously Shimano issued this set as a promotion.  Its a neat little unique piece.  Not a whole lot of value.