Baucus starts dignitary tour at Bozeman business

Fishing waders might be an apt prop for a congressman wading muddy political waters. But on Tuesday, Sen. Max Baucus used waders to demonstrate the kind of business he wants to attract to Montana.The senator spent much of the day meeting employees and learning the various tasks carried out at Bozeman manufacturer Simms Fishing Products, a Montana-owned company.Simms is the kind of company Baucus wants to promote to foreign dignitaries on his upcoming Ambassadors’ Tour as an example of the quality and workmanship they can find in Montana.

Unique Vacation Ideas for your China Travel Holidays.It’s also an example of the global chain that Baucus would like to link into. Simms imports its raw material, Gore-Tex, from Japan and then exports a variety of recreational gear worldwide.Baucus watched it all come together as he helped employees build and package high-end waders for the growing recreation market.Surrounded by the hiss of Gore-Tex taping machines and the smell of synthetic material, Baucus carefully folded a $500 pair of waders and placed them in a display box, adding the crowning touch of a U.S. flag sticker indicating it was made in America.

Then he went to observe the quality control area, where he watched workers reject a pair of waders for a tiny flaw.“I’m very impressed with the dedication and quality here,” Baucus said. “The quality is world-renowned. Montanans have a great work ethic, and this is the perfect Montana company to show that.”Later, Baucus presented the company with his Montana Jobs Economic Engine distinction, which he uses to recognize businesses that attract investors and business to Montana. Wheat Montana and several breweries have been past recipients.