AnglersChannel

Mosley does differently for Elite Series Runner-up finish

Brock Mosley made a statement this week. He beat 107 Elite Series pros on the St Lawrence River with 82 ponds, 3 ounces of smallmouth bass.

Unfortunately for the 2^nd year Elite Series angler from Mississippi, there were 108 other competitors, including Kevin VanDam who weighed-in 90 pounds, 3 ounces to claim his 24^th career victory.

Still, it was a great week for Mosley.

“When you average better than 20 pounds a day and you still get beat by 8 pounds there’s not much you can hang your head about.

“I’ll be real honest, I thought I did just enough to hang onto 5^th or 6^th place. I didn’t have any idea those guys were struggling as bad as they were.”

Mosley’s performance looked different from the rest of the field, and so does his rod locker.

Mosley uses Spiralite Rods. I looked at their stuff during the recent ICAST show. I was drawn to them because of the guide design. The guides wrap around the blank instead of running straight up it. I questioned Mosley about this design feature ‘every rod builder I’ve ever talked with has stressed the importance of finding the spine of the blank and placing all guides right along it, so what’s up with these guides that spiral around the blank?’.

“This technology has been used in saltwater,” explained Mosley, “so it will hold up to the bass we catch.”

Charley Almassey of Spiralite further explains, “Only the 3 Transition guides are off the spine neareast the reel seat which happens to also be the strongest section of the blank making it a mute point. All of the Running guides in the top 3rd of the rod where tensile strength is most critical are perfectly aligned along the spine.”

Makes sense to me now!

And it makes even more sense when backed-up by the performance a of a young pro who almost took down the giantest giant in our sport!

“I used a couple of the Defiant Series and a couple of the Maverick Series rods by Spiralite this week,” said Mosley. “They are spinning rods.”

With those spinning rods Mosley further departed from his peers by tossing a Ned rig (1/5 oz.) with a 4-inch Senko until the final day when winds forced him to switch to a dropshot with a Net Baits Contour Worm. “The wind was blowing so hard I couldn’t keep contact with the bottom with the Ned rig.”

Mosley had an actual pattern going and he ran new water with it each day. “I caught three 4-pounders today on a spot I hadn’t fished all week.

“I was catching them on the shoals in a certain depth, 18-to23 or 24 feet – not much deeper than 25. So I used my Garmin electronics depth-shading feature to outline that contour and I just ran all over the river looking for this certain color that I put on my electronics and, usually, I would catch a fish at each one of them.”

The bites came slow, but they were quality fish. “I wasn’t getting many bites. I would sit there and fish it for 15-to-20 minutes if not longer to get them to bite but usually if I got a bite it was a good one.”

Again, Mosley was mostly alone in his efforts, even among the deep water crowd. “Most of the guys who were fishing deep were fishing faster current areas. I was fishing more slack water.”

Going his own way worked well for Brock Mosley. As you read this he is practicing for the next Elite Series event on Lake Champlain where he hopes to keep the momentum going.

“I’ve been to Champlain several times and I’ve had a little success there. I’ve got a Top 10 there before and I would love to get another Top 10 but to do it against this group of guys is not easy to do.”

by AnglersChannel

DIEDRICH WINS T-H MARINE FLW BFL ILLINI DIVISION EVENT ON OHIO RIVER

Bonnie’s Brookman Earns Co-angler Title

GOLCONDA, Ill. (July 24, 2017) – Chad Diedrich of Nashville, Illinois, won the T-H Marine FLW Bass Fishing League (BFL) Illini Division tournament on the Ohio River Saturday after catching five bass weighing 15 pounds, 9 ounces. Diedrich earned $6,116 for his efforts.

“I decided to lock to the Cumberland River because I was having a hard time getting a bite on the Ohio River,” said Diedrich, who notched his first career-win in FLW competition. “I stopped at a bank about a mile from the Barkley Lake tailwaters and caught the first fish I weighed on a (Watermelon Red Flake-colored) Wave Worm Tiki Stick.”

As he worked his way closer to the Barkley Lake dam, Diedrich said he fished near the bank, where slackwater met the current.

“Other anglers seemed to be focused on the current breaks created by rocks out deep, but I couldn’t get that to work for me,” said Diedrich. “I put the bait in the slackwater. I popped it two or three times, let it sit and then popped it again so it could enter the current. I let it flow for a bit and then reeled in. I’d get as close as 100 yards to the dam before drifting back and starting all over again.”

Diedrich said he fished the Cumberland River until 12:45 p.m. before making his way back to the takeoff ramp. With 40 minutes left in his day, Diedrich said he used a spinnerbait to catch a 3-pounder near a laydown.

“The final 3-pounder likely put me over the top,” said Diedrich. “I don’t think I would’ve edged second place without that fish. “

The top 10 boaters finished the tournament in:

1^st: Chad Diedrich, Nashville, Ill., five bass, 15-9, $4,116 + $2,000 Ranger Cup Bonus

2^nd: Marty Sisk, Evansville, Ind., five bass, 13-6, $2,020

3^rd: Leroy McDuffie, McLeansboro, Ill., five bass, 10-9, $1,614

4^th: Mike Barnes, Mackinaw, Ill., five bass, 10-4, $850

5^th: Shane Haslett, Beecher City, Ill., four bass, 10-0, $728

6^th: Travis Boley, Weldon, Ill., four bass, 9-12, $668

7^th: William Walker, Mulkeytown, Ill., five bass, 9-11, $607

8^th: Brandon Broadway, Golconda, Ill., four bass, 9-4, $546

9^th: Shawn Panick, New Lenox, Ill., four bass, 9-3, $485

10^th: Justin Berger, Murray, Ky., four bass, 9-2, $425

Complete results can be found at FLWFishing.com.

Diedrich also caught a fish weighing 4 pounds, 14 ounces – the heaviest of the event in the Boater Division. The catch earned him the day’s Boater Big Bass award of $475.

Adam Brookman of Bonnie, Illinois, won the Co-angler Division and $1,977 Saturday with a five-bass limit weighing 9 pounds, 5 ounces.

The top 10 co-anglers were:

1^st: Adam Brookman, Bonnie, Ill., five bass, 9-5, $1,977

2^nd: William Richno, Raymond, Ill., five bass, 8-13, $888

3^rd: Matt Chumbler, Carbondale, Ill., five bass, 8-3, $642

4^th: Aaron Arning, Walnut Hill, Ill., five bass, 8-2, $415

5^th: Eric Thrasher, Decatur, Ill., five bass, 8-1, $355

6^th: Ernie Richards, Dixon, Ill., three bass, 7-3, $326

7^th: Edward Helf, Alto Pass, Ill., three bass, 6-7, $296

8^th: Dale Renth, Mascoutah, Ill., three bass, 6-5, $267

9^th: Jeff Kirby, Philo, Ill., two bass, 6-0, $237

10^th: Obadiah Holsapple, Greenup, Ill., five bass, 5-11, $207

Carl Lingle of Dongola, Illinois, caught the largest bass in the Co-angler Division – a fish weighing 4 pounds even – and earned the day’s Co-angler Big Bass award of $227.

The top 45 boaters and co-anglers in the region based on point standings, along with the five winners in each qualifying event, will be entered in the Oct. 5-7 BFL Regional Championship on Kentucky Lake in Gilbertsville, Kentucky. Boaters will compete for a top award of a Ranger Z518C with a 200-horsepower Evinrude outboard and $20,000, while co-anglers will fish for a new Ranger Z518C with a 200-horsepower Evinrude outboard.

The 2017 BFL is a 24-division circuit devoted to weekend anglers, with 128 tournaments throughout the season, five qualifying events in each division. The top 45 boaters and co-anglers from each division, along with the five winners of the qualifying events, will advance to one of six regional tournaments where they are competing to finish in the top six, which then qualifies them for one of the longest-running championships in all of competitive bass fishing – the BFL All-American. Top performers in the BFL can move up to the Costa FLW Series or even the FLW Tour.

For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the BFL on Facebook at Facebook.com/FLWFishing and on Twitter at Twitter.com/FLWFishing.

by AnglersChannel

GANN WINS T-H MARINE FLW BFL GREAT LAKES DIVISION TOURNAMENT ON MISSISSIPPI RIVER

Ettrick’s Anderson Earns Co-angler Title

LA CROSSE, Wis. (July 24, 2017) – Brandon Gann of Sparta, Wisconsin, caught three bass weighing 10 pounds, 14 ounces, Saturday to win the T-H Marine FLW Bass Fishing League (BFL) Great Lakes Division tournament on the Mississippi River. For his win, Gann pocketed $5,401.

“I primarily fished backwaters off of the main-river channel – basically anywhere that I could find clean water,” said Gann, who logged his third career-win on the Mississippi River in BFL competition. “We had some severe weather roll through and it dirtied everything up, so I had to start from scratch. It was almost like pre-fishing the entire region again.”

Gann said he spent the event fishing Pool No. 8, and that his most productive bait was a Spro Dean Rojas Bronzeye Frog 65.

“I rotated between four or five different areas and worked the frog through lily pads mixed with duckweed,” said Gann. “It was tough out there – I think I only caught four keepers the entire day.”

One of Gann’s keepers – a 5-pound, 9-ounce bass – ended up being the largest of the event.

“I caught the big bass on the Bronzeye frog around 1 p.m., and it was definitely what won it for me,” said Gann. “I was very fortunate to get that bite.”

The top 10 boaters finished the tournament in:

1^st: Brandon Gann, Sparta, Wis., three bass, 10-14, $5,401

2^nd: Todd Hancock, Rothschild, Wis., three bass, 10-13, $2,670

3^rd: Mike Feldermann, Galena, Ill., three bass, 10-7, $1,514

4^th: Bob Bungard, Holmen, Wis., three bass, 10-0, $1,060

5^th: Fernando Lobato, Sparta, Wis., three bass, 9-15, $908

6^th: Jason Skutt, Menomonie, Wis., three bass, 9-14, $833

7^th: Tom Howland, Riceville, Iowa, three bass, 9-11, $757

8^th: Yamamoto Baits pro Tom Monsoor, La Crosse, Wis., three bass, 9-9, $681

9^th: Brent Schroeder, Caledonia, Minn., three bass, 9-5, $537

9^th: Kyle Meyer, Blaine, Minn., three bass, 9-5, $537

9^th: William Schultz, Viroqua, Wis., three bass, 9-5, $537

Complete results can be found at FLWFishing.com.

Gann’s 5-pound, 9-ounce catch also earned him the day’s Boater Big Bass award of $660.

Kevin Anderson of Ettrick, Wisconsin, caught three bass weighing 10 pounds, 4 ounces, to win the Co-Angler Division and $2,435.

The top 10 co-anglers were:

1^st: Kevin Anderson, Ettrick, Wis., three bass, 10-4, $2,435

2^nd: Donald Roscovius, Tomah, Wis., three bass, 9-11, $1,235

3^rd: Steve Ubersox, Cherry Valley, Ill., three bass, 9-6, $757

4^th: Nick Gifford, Cameron, Wis., three bass, 9-2, $530

5^th: Tong Lor, La Crosse, Wis., three bass, 8-13, $454

6^th: Craig Fanning, Elwood, Ill., three bass, 8-10, $416

7^th: Bill Gabel, Willowbrook, Ill., three bass, 8-8, $378

8^th: Richard Conrad, Burnsville, Minn., three bass, 8-2, $341

9^th: Tim Czesak, Bloomingdale, Ill., three bass, 8-0, $334

9^th: Cody Hackett, Stoddard, Wis., three bass, 8-0, $334

Nicholas Leno of Chicago, Illinois, caught the largest bass in the Co-angler Division – a fish weighing 3 pounds, 9 ounces – and earned the day’s Co-angler Big Bass award of $165.

The top 45 boaters and co-anglers in the region based on point standings, along with the five winners in each qualifying event, will be entered in the Oct. 12-14 BFL Regional Championship on the Barren River in Scottsville, Kentucky. Boaters will compete for a top award of a Ranger Z518C with a 200-horsepower Evinrude outboard and $20,000, while co-anglers will fish for a new Ranger Z518C with a 200-horsepower Evinrude outboard.

For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the BFL on Facebook at Facebook.com/FLWFishing and on Twitter at Twitter.com/FLWFishing.

by AnglersChannel

T-H MARINE SPONSORS TITO'S REDFISH SERIES

Slidell, LA – July 24, 2017 – The Redfish Series partnered with Tito’s Handmade Vodka is proud to announce T-H Marine Supplies, Inc. as a new multi-year sponsor. In addition, T-H Marine will be offering prize-winning products to tournament winners and raffle participants for the remaining two tournaments in 2017 and all of 2018.

Benny Sanchez, Director and Organizer of the Tito’s Redfish Series stated, “We are extremely excited to welcome T-H Marine to the Redfish Series partnered with Tito’s Handmade Vodka family and we know our anglers will be very excited. T-H Marine has a great line of gear that covers transom to trolling motor that inshore fisherman can benefit from. They are one of the biggest and best manufacturers of accessories for fishing boats in the industry.”

Jeff Huntley, President of T-H Marine stated, “The Redfish Series partnered with Tito’s Handmade Vodka came on the scene like a beast in their first year! They have clearly built a tournament series that anglers want to be a part of, as evidenced by the large boat counts they have attracted in every tournament. We are excited to help support this non-profit organization that puts every penny back into the anglers and giving back to Wish to Fish Louisiana Foundation and the Louisiana Sportsmen's Coalition.”

T-H Marine’s mission is to provide awesome products that help boaters pursue their passion on the water. They are a family-owned company that is fanatical about boating and fishing. Because of that passion, they are constantly striving to develop new and innovative products. T-H Marine manufactures thousands of boat parts and boating and fishing accessories that are found on virtually every recreational boat built in the United States including bass boats, pontoon boats, runabouts, ski boats, deck boats, offshore fishing boats, flats boats, aluminum fishing boats, and center console boats. You can also find their products in retail outlets throughout the world.

T-H Marine, a household name in bass boats, also offers a broad line of products for saltwater boats, especially in-shore fishing boats. Some of their most well-known brands are: ATLAS™ Hydraulic jack plates, HydroWave™ electronic feeding stimulators, the Hot-Foot™ throttle, the Oxygenator™ livewell oxygen generator, G-Juice™ livewell treatment formula, G-Force™ trolling motor accessories, Tackle Titan™ tackle management systems, KVD KONG™ extreme electronic mounts, Wave Away™ electronics screen cleaner, and AquaBlaze™ LED lights.

For more information about T-H Marine, including their wide range of products, please visit https://ww.thmarine.com.

For more information about The Redfish Series partnered with Tito’s Handmade Vodka, please visit
https://titosvodkaredfishseries.com/

by AnglersChannel

KVD Breaks Down his 24th BASS Win on the St Lawrence River

Special thanks to Alan McGuckin and Dynamic Sponsorships for this video.

by AnglersChannel

KVD wins his 24th BASS Tournament! Goes wire-to-wire on St. Lawrence

Kevin VanDam of Kalamazoo, Mich., won the 2017 Huk Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence River presented by Go RVing held out of Waddington, N.Y., Sunday, with a four-day total weight of 90 pounds, 3 ounces.
Photo by Seigo Saito/B.A.S.S.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 23, 2017

Kevin VanDam Finishes Strong To Win St. Lawrence River Bassmaster Elite Series Tournament

WADDINGTON, N.Y. — By noon Sunday, Kevin VanDam was already working his way back to toward Whittaker Park, where the weigh-in would be held about three hours later.

He knew it was over — and so did most everyone else.

After leading the first three days, VanDam caught five bass today that weighed 23 pounds, 12 ounces to punctuate a dominant victory in the Huk Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence River presented by Go RVing. His four-day total of 90-3 is one of the highest ever recorded by an Elite Series angler weighing in only smallmouth bass.

The closest angler to KVD was Mississippi pro Brock Mosley, who finished 8 pounds back with 82-3.

“I fished my very first B.A.S.S. tournament here on the St. Lawrence River in 1987,” said VanDam, who earned his B.A.S.S.-record 24th victory. “Someone told me today that this is my 300th tournament with B.A.S.S., and I had no idea. So, all of that makes this really special.”

VanDam earned $100,000 for first place and $1,500 more for landing the Phoenix Boats Big Bass of the week — a monster 6-5 smallmouth that bit early Sunday morning. He also won the Livingston Lures Day 2 Leader Award of $500 for leading Friday’s second day of competition and the Power-Pole Captain’s Cash Award of $1,000 for being the highest-placing angler who is registered and eligible with a client-approved product on his boat.

The cash prizes pushed his career earnings with B.A.S.S. to more than $6.2 million.

“I’ve had a couple of chances to win already this year, and I kind of let those slip away,” VanDam said. “It is hard to win one of these blue trophies — and it’s something I never, ever take for granted. This one means as much as any tournament I’ve ever won.”

Regarded as one of the top smallmouth anglers in the history of the sport, VanDam put on an incredible show all four days of the event, rotating among a variety of lures.

During the early stages of the tournament, his primary technique was drop shotting with a chartreuse Strike King Dream Shot in strong current.

“I was fishing it just as fast as I could,” VanDam said. “I’d bomb it out there, let it hit the bottom, shake it once and one would just load up on it. That’s how I caught that 24 pounds the first day.

“But I had to mix it up every day.”

As the week progressed, VanDam also used several different jerkbaits and swimbaits and a wacky-rigged Strike King Ocho. He said a new wacky-rig hook that was unveiled by Mustad during the ICAST trade show in Orlando, Fla., earlier this month played a big role in his success.

On Sunday, he used an unspecified “spybait” when the winds were blowing and it was hard to fish a bait on the bottom.

“Smallmouth are very aggressive by nature, but you have to give them what they want for what mood they’re in,” said VanDam, who also recorded victories in B.A.S.S. events on the St. Lawrence River in 1995 and 1999. “Sometimes they’ll chase something 20 yards and eat it, and other times they’re just really timid.

“That spybait allowed me to show them something a little different, and I was able to make that pay off today.”

With the victory, VanDam moved into third place in the Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year standings. Idaho pro Brandon Palaniuk took the lead with 621 points and received a $1,000 contingency award from Toyota as the current leader. He is followed in the AOY standings by South Carolina pro Casey Ashley with 613 and VanDam with 604.

Palaniuk was awarded the Toyota Bonus Bucks award of $3,000 for being the highest-placing eligible entrant in the program. The second-highest-placing eligible entrant, Jonathon VanDam, received $2,000.

The Village of Waddington hosted the event.

2017 Bassmaster Elite Series Platinum Sponsor: Toyota

2017 Bassmaster Elite Series Premier Sponsors: Skeeter Boats, Triton Boats, Yamaha, Berkley, Huk, Humminbird, Nitro Boats, Mercury, Minn Kota, Power-Pole, Shell Rotella

2017 Bassmaster Elite Series Supporting Sponsors: Dick Cepek Tires & Wheels, Livingston Lures, Lowrance, Phoenix Boats, Shimano, T-H Marine, Advance Auto Parts, Academy Sports + Outdoors, Carhartt

About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S. is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the 500,000-member organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), television show (The Bassmasters on ESPN2), radio show (Bassmaster Radio), social media programs and events. For more than 45 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.

The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Bassmaster Elite Series, Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Open Series, Academy Sports + Outdoors B.A.S.S. Nation Series presented by Magellan Outdoors, Carhartt Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Costa Bassmaster High School Series presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods, Toyota Bonus Bucks Bassmaster Team Championship and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the GEICO Bassmaster Classic presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods.

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Media Contact: JamieDay Matthews, 205-313-0945, [email protected] or Dave Precht, 205-313-0931, [email protected]
2017 HUK Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence presented by Go RVing 7/20-7/23
St. Lawrence River, Waddington NY.
(PROFESSIONAL) Standings Day 4

Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$

1. Kevin VanDam Kalamazoo, MI 20 90-03 110 $103,000.00
Day 1: 5 24-05 Day 2: 5 19-08 Day 3: 5 22-10 Day 4: 5 23-12
2. Brock Mosley Collinsville, MS 20 82-03 109 $25,000.00
Day 1: 5 20-08 Day 2: 5 21-08 Day 3: 5 20-01 Day 4: 5 20-02
3. Brandon Palaniuk Hayden, ID 20 82-00 108 $21,000.00
Day 1: 5 15-15 Day 2: 5 25-00 Day 3: 5 22-04 Day 4: 5 18-13
4. Brent Ehrler Redlands, CA 20 80-14 107 $15,000.00
Day 1: 5 22-09 Day 2: 5 19-00 Day 3: 5 21-08 Day 4: 5 17-13
5. Jonathon VanDam Kalamazoo, MI 20 80-14 106 $14,000.00
Day 1: 5 20-09 Day 2: 5 21-15 Day 3: 5 21-08 Day 4: 5 16-14
6. James Elam Tulsa, OK 20 78-14 105 $13,500.00
Day 1: 5 21-12 Day 2: 5 18-01 Day 3: 5 20-11 Day 4: 5 18-06
7. Jamie Hartman Newport, NY 20 78-12 104 $13,000.00
Day 1: 5 19-00 Day 2: 5 17-13 Day 3: 5 23-06 Day 4: 5 18-09
8. Casey Ashley Donalds, SC 20 77-13 103 $12,500.00
Day 1: 5 21-14 Day 2: 5 20-14 Day 3: 5 19-05 Day 4: 5 15-12
9. Brandon Coulter Knoxville, TN 20 77-09 102 $12,000.00
Day 1: 5 19-10 Day 2: 5 22-08 Day 3: 5 18-10 Day 4: 5 16-13
10. Gerald Swindle Guntersville, AL 20 76-08 101 $11,500.00
Day 1: 5 18-12 Day 2: 5 19-08 Day 3: 5 23-06 Day 4: 5 14-14
11. Alton Jones Lorena, TX 20 75-13 100 $11,000.00
Day 1: 5 20-06 Day 2: 5 18-00 Day 3: 5 21-09 Day 4: 5 15-14
12. Bernie Schultz Gainesville, FL 20 70-09 99 $10,500.00
Day 1: 5 21-12 Day 2: 5 19-12 Day 3: 5 19-09 Day 4: 5 09-08
PHOENIX BOATS BIG BASS
Kevin VanDam Kalamazoo, MI 06-05 $1,500.00
-------------------------------------------------

by AnglersChannel

KVD, JVD 1st and 2nd Heading into Elite Championship Sunday on St. Lawrence

Kevin VanDam of Kalamazoo, Mich., holds the lead for the third day of the Huk Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence River presented by Go RVing, bringing 22 pounds, 10 ounces to the scales on Saturday for a three-day total weight of 66-7.
Photo by Seigo Saito/B.A.S.S.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 22, 2017

WADDINGTON, N.Y. — It’s been every pro fisherman’s nightmare for more than 25 years.

Superstar Kevin VanDam — a Michigan native and arguably the best smallmouth angler in the history of the sport — is hammering the smallies with no sign of slowing down.

And now, the remaining anglers in the field have just one more day to overtake him and keep him from recording his 24th career B.A.S.S. victory wire-to-wire style at the Huk Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence River presented by Go RVing.

VanDam added five bass that weighed 22 pounds, 10 ounces Saturday and maintained the lead he’s held from the start with a three-day total of 66-7.

“Today was really calm,” he said. “The wind changed 180 degrees and blew the exact opposite direction from what it did (Friday). That really slowed things down, and it’s a lot easier to position your boat when it’s like that.

“You saw what the weights were like today. If it’s like that tomorrow, it’s going to be a shootout.”

Saturday’s semifinal round saw 13 bags of 20 pounds or more brought to the scales, including the 21-8 limit weighed in by VanDam’s nephew, Jonathon VanDam. The younger VanDam moved into second place with a three-day mark of 64-0.

“It’s been a great week so far for me,” JVD said. “I definitely needed a tournament like this for the points.

“All you can ask for is to put yourself into position to win, and I’ve definitely got a shot.”

Idaho angler Brandon Palaniuk had another strong day with 22-4 and rose from ninth place into third with 63-3. It would be a remarkable feat for Palaniuk to record a victory, considering he was in 72nd place on Day 1.

After those early struggles, Palaniuk said he believed he would need at least a 24-pound average for the remaining three days to have a chance for a win.

“I caught 25 Friday and 22 today, so I’m off that 24-pound average by about a pound,” Palaniuk said. “That probably means I need 25 or 26 to have a shot.

“That kind of bag is out there — and I’ve got to have them because all of these guys are going to catch 20 pounds again tomorrow.”

Brent Ehrler, a veteran California pro with more than $2 million in career earnings, caught 21-8 Saturday and jumped into fourth place with 63-1. Ehrler has two second-place finishes since joining the Elite Series in 2015, but he’s still seeking his first win.

After leading two events into the final round this year only to fall short, he said he feels strong about the position he’s in going into Championship Sunday.

“I like being back just a little bit instead of leading, but it’s a tough hill to climb,” Ehrler said. “I didn’t necessarily lay off of them today. But at one point, I stopped fishing a couple of spots and kind of defended them. I started looking around a little bit instead of pounding on them.

“The fish are there — and if everything is right, I think I can catch them.”

VanDam and Palaniuk are also locked in a battle with South Carolina pro Casey Ashley for the Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year award. Palaniuk leads with 621 points, followed by Ashley with 616 and KVD with 604.

The tournament will conclude Sunday, with the Top 12 remaining anglers leaving Whittaker Park at 6:15 a.m. ET. The weigh-in will be held back at the park at 3:15 p.m., with a $100,000 first-place prize on the line.

The event is hosted by the Village of Waddington.

2017 Bassmaster Elite Series Platinum Sponsor: Toyota

2017 Bassmaster Elite Series Premier Sponsors: Shell Rotella, Skeeter Boats, Triton Boats, Yamaha, Berkley, Huk, Humminbird, Nitro Boats, Mercury, Minn Kota, Power-Pole

2017 Bassmaster Elite Series Supporting Sponsors: Carhartt, Dick Cepek Tires & Wheels, Livingston Lures, Lowrance, Phoenix Boats, Shimano, T-H Marine, Advance Auto Parts, Academy Sports + Outdoors

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Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$

1. Kevin VanDam Kalamazoo, MI 15 66-07 110 $500.00
Day 1: 5 24-05 Day 2: 5 19-08 Day 3: 5 22-10
2. Jonathon VanDam Kalamazoo, MI 15 64-00 109
Day 1: 5 20-09 Day 2: 5 21-15 Day 3: 5 21-08
3. Brandon Palaniuk Hayden, ID 15 63-03 108
Day 1: 5 15-15 Day 2: 5 25-00 Day 3: 5 22-04
4. Brent Ehrler Redlands, CA 15 63-01 107
Day 1: 5 22-09 Day 2: 5 19-00 Day 3: 5 21-08
5. Casey Ashley Donalds, SC 15 62-01 106
Day 1: 5 21-14 Day 2: 5 20-14 Day 3: 5 19-05
6. Brock Mosley Collinsville, MS 15 62-01 105
Day 1: 5 20-08 Day 2: 5 21-08 Day 3: 5 20-01
7. Gerald Swindle Guntersville, AL 15 61-10 104
Day 1: 5 18-12 Day 2: 5 19-08 Day 3: 5 23-06
8. Bernie Schultz Gainesville, FL 15 61-01 103
Day 1: 5 21-12 Day 2: 5 19-12 Day 3: 5 19-09
9. Brandon Coulter Knoxville, TN 15 60-12 102
Day 1: 5 19-10 Day 2: 5 22-08 Day 3: 5 18-10
10. James Elam Tulsa, OK 15 60-08 101
Day 1: 5 21-12 Day 2: 5 18-01 Day 3: 5 20-11
11. Jamie Hartman Newport, NY 15 60-03 100
Day 1: 5 19-00 Day 2: 5 17-13 Day 3: 5 23-06
12. Alton Jones Lorena, TX 15 59-15 99
Day 1: 5 20-06 Day 2: 5 18-00 Day 3: 5 21-09
13. Luke Clausen Otis Orchards, WA 15 59-12 98 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 17-04 Day 2: 5 18-12 Day 3: 5 23-12
14. David Walker Sevierville, TN 15 59-01 97 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 19-02 Day 2: 5 20-10 Day 3: 5 19-05
15. Bill Lowen Brookville, IN 15 58-11 96 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 23-06 Day 2: 5 16-03 Day 3: 5 19-02
16. Josh Bertrand San Tan Valley, AZ 15 58-08 95 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 19-07 Day 2: 5 19-05 Day 3: 5 19-12
17. Koby Kreiger Bokeelia, FL 15 57-15 94 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 18-13 Day 2: 5 17-07 Day 3: 5 21-11
18. Skeet Reese Auburn, CA 15 57-03 93 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 17-07 Day 2: 5 18-01 Day 3: 5 21-11
19. Jason Christie Park Hill, OK 15 56-09 92 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 19-09 Day 2: 5 19-00 Day 3: 5 18-00
20. Brandon Card Knoxville, TN 15 56-09 91 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 18-05 Day 2: 5 19-04 Day 3: 5 19-00
21. Dustin Connell Clanton, AL 15 56-04 90 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 19-09 Day 2: 5 20-10 Day 3: 5 16-01
22. Tim Horton Muscle Shoals, AL 15 56-03 89 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 13-10 Day 2: 5 21-10 Day 3: 5 20-15
23. Dave Lefebre Erie, PA 15 55-08 88 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 21-11 Day 2: 5 16-15 Day 3: 5 16-14
24. Jesse Wiggins Cullman, AL 15 55-00 87 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 21-10 Day 2: 5 17-05 Day 3: 5 16-01
25. Jacob Powroznik North Prince George, VA 15 54-15 86 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 17-04 Day 2: 5 20-00 Day 3: 5 17-11
26. Aaron Martens Leeds, AL 15 54-15 85 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 16-10 Day 2: 5 18-09 Day 3: 5 19-12
27. John Murray Spring City, TN 15 54-15 84 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 18-14 Day 2: 5 19-02 Day 3: 5 16-15
28. Greg Hackney Gonzales, LA 15 54-15 83 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 19-01 Day 2: 5 18-06 Day 3: 5 17-08
29. Takahiro Omori Emory, TX 15 54-14 82 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 20-01 Day 2: 5 16-03 Day 3: 5 18-10
30. Clifford Pirch Payson, AZ 15 54-09 81 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 16-05 Day 2: 5 19-07 Day 3: 5 18-13
31. Keith Combs Huntington, TX 15 54-07 80 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 20-08 Day 2: 5 17-07 Day 3: 5 16-08
32. Brandon Lester Fayetteville, TN 15 54-03 79 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 15-10 Day 2: 5 21-10 Day 3: 5 16-15
33. Russ Lane Prattville, AL 15 54-02 78 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 20-08 Day 2: 5 15-13 Day 3: 5 17-13
34. Seth Feider Isle, MN 15 53-14 77 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 22-11 Day 2: 5 15-11 Day 3: 5 15-08
35. Jared Lintner Arroyo Grande, CA 15 53-10 76 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 19-11 Day 2: 5 15-10 Day 3: 5 18-05
36. Hank Cherry Jr Lincolnton, NC 15 53-04 75 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 16-10 Day 2: 5 18-06 Day 3: 5 18-04
37. Brian Snowden Reeds Spring, MO 15 53-00 74 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 18-15 Day 2: 5 15-14 Day 3: 5 18-03
38. Cliff Pace Petal, MS 15 52-11 73 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 17-06 Day 2: 5 20-09 Day 3: 5 14-12
39. Jason Williamson Wagener, SC 15 52-08 72 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 17-06 Day 2: 5 17-11 Day 3: 5 17-07
40. Edwin Evers Talala, OK 15 51-15 71 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 21-02 Day 2: 5 14-11 Day 3: 5 16-02
41. Marty Robinson Lyman, SC 15 51-11 70 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 22-04 Day 2: 5 15-04 Day 3: 5 14-03
42. Drew Benton Panama City, FL 15 51-07 69 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 14-07 Day 2: 5 20-12 Day 3: 5 16-04
43. Justin Lucas Guntersville, AL 15 51-05 68 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 21-08 Day 2: 5 20-03 Day 3: 5 09-10
44. Matt Herren Ashville, AL 15 51-02 67 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 17-10 Day 2: 5 18-11 Day 3: 5 14-13
45. Chris Lane Guntersville, AL 15 50-13 66 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 19-12 Day 2: 5 16-07 Day 3: 5 14-10
46. Brett Hite Phoenix, AZ 15 50-11 65 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 19-14 Day 2: 5 15-15 Day 3: 5 14-14
47. Jacob Wheeler Harrison, TN 15 49-12 64 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 18-00 Day 2: 5 17-00 Day 3: 5 14-12
48. Chad Pipkens Lansing, MI 15 49-09 63 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 18-15 Day 2: 5 18-13 Day 3: 5 11-13
49. Britt Myers Lake Wylie, SC 15 49-01 62 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 19-03 Day 2: 5 15-10 Day 3: 5 14-04
50. David Mullins Mt Carmel, TN 15 48-07 61 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 14-15 Day 2: 5 19-15 Day 3: 5 13-09
51. Robbie Latuso Gonzales, LA 15 48-00 60 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 18-05 Day 2: 5 16-14 Day 3: 5 12-13

by AnglersChannel

Smallmouth Bass & Bad Girlfriends - Swindle's Take on Day 3, Elite Series on the St. Lawrence River

by AnglersChannel

Kevin VanDam Maintains Slim Lead In Bassmaster Elite Series On The St. Lawrence River

Kevin VanDam of Kalamazoo, Mich., maintains the lead on the second day of the Huk Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence River presented by Go RVing out of Waddington, N.Y., with a two-day total weight of 43 pounds, 13 ounces.
Photo by Seigo Saito/B.A.S.S.

July 21, 2017

WADDINGTON, N.Y. — One the biggest names in professional bass fishing history managed to hold his ground at the top of the leaderboard during Friday’s Huk Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence River presented by Go RVing.

Kevin VanDam — a four-time winner of the GEICO Bassmaster Classic and seven-time Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year — caught five bass that weighed 19 pounds, 8 ounces and remained in the lead with a two-day total of 43-13.

The 23-time B.A.S.S. winner from Kalamazoo, Mich., said Friday’s weather conditions in upstate New York didn’t help the technique he’s using.

“When the wind is blowing the same direction as the current, it really speeds it up — and this afternoon it was really blowing,” he said. “That makes it a lot harder to get a good drift, to get that weight moving with your bait so it’s really natural to the fish.

“When it’s calm and the current is slow, it’s a lot easier to get them to bite.”

If that’s the case, Saturday’s weather forecast, which is calling for much lighter winds, favors VanDam — and he has little margin for error.

Another former Bassmaster Classic winner, Casey Ashley of Donalds, S.C., is right on his heels. Ashley caught 21-14 Friday and jumped from sixth place into second with a two-day total of 42-12.

Unlike VanDam, who started slow and finished strong Friday, Ashley caught good fish immediately.

“I started off with a bang,” said Ashley, who won the 2015 Classic on South Carolina’s Lake Hartwell. “My first fish weighed about 4-12, and then I caught three big ones real quick.”

Then things cooled off, as Ashley said he was also affected by the wind.

“After I caught those first four, things got really slow,” he said. “But I could still see the fish in there.

“The wind shifted and was blowing more west than south. In that place where I’m fishing, they just seem to like a south wind.”

As VanDam and Ashley are battling for the tournament victory and its $100,000 first-place prize, they also occupy two of the top three spots in the Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year race. Ashley is in the lead with 619 points, followed by Idaho pro Brandon Palaniuk (615) and VanDam (604).

Another developing storyline for the event is the battle between KVD and his nephew, Jonathon VanDam.

The younger VanDam caught 21-15 Friday and moved into third place with 42-8.

“It’s supercool when we’re both in the running,” KVD said. “We talk multiple times during practice just to see what the other is seeing and finding out. We fish, really, very differently. But the general things make a big difference when you’re smallmouth fishing.

“He’s got a lot of pressure on him right now to qualify for the Classic, but he’s also got a lot of confidence. That’s one thing that all VanDams have is a lot of confidence.”

Jonathon, who has missed the Classic the past three years, said the fishing has been slow for him — despite what the standings say.

“I think I’m around the right kind of fish, but it’s just really hard to get them to bite,” he said. “I’m just fishing shallow and only getting a handful of bites.

“I’m around some really big ones. All of the ones that I’ve weighed in so far haven’t even been close to what I’ve seen.”

Palaniuk made the biggest jump Friday with a 25-pound bag that pushed his two-day total to 40-15. He rose from 72nd place all the way to ninth.

“It’s all about the area here, getting around the right fish,” Palaniuk said. “Today, I went to an area that I found in practice, and they were there.

“I didn’t go there yesterday because I thought I could catch 22 to 25 doing something else.”

The field will now be trimmed to the Top 51 anglers for Saturday’s semifinal round. Takeoff will be at 6:15 a.m. ET from Whittaker Park, with the weigh-in scheduled back at the park for 3:15 p.m.

Only the Top 12 anglers will advance to Championship Sunday.

The event is hosted by the Village of Waddington.

2017 Bassmaster Elite Series Platinum Sponsor: Toyota

2017 Bassmaster Elite Series Premier Sponsors: Power-Pole, Shell Rotella, Skeeter Boats, Triton Boats, Yamaha, Berkley, Huk, Humminbird, Nitro Boats, Mercury, Minn Kota

2017 Bassmaster Elite Series Supporting Sponsors: Academy Sports + Outdoors, Carhartt, Dick Cepek Tires & Wheels, Livingston Lures, Lowrance, Phoenix Boats, Shimano, T-H Marine, Advance Auto Parts

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Media Contact: JamieDay Matthews, 205-313-0945, [email protected] or Dave Precht, 205-313-0931, [email protected]
2017 HUK Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence River presented by Go RVing 7/20-7/23
St. Lawrence River, Waddington NY.
(PROFESSIONAL) Standings Day 2

Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$

1. Kevin VanDam Kalamazoo, MI 10 43-13 110 $500.00
Day 1: 5 24-05 Day 2: 5 19-08
2. Casey Ashley Donalds, SC 10 42-12 109
Day 1: 5 21-14 Day 2: 5 20-14
3. Jonathon VanDam Kalamazoo, MI 10 42-08 108
Day 1: 5 20-09 Day 2: 5 21-15
4. Brandon Coulter Knoxville, TN 10 42-02 107
Day 1: 5 19-10 Day 2: 5 22-08
5. Brock Mosley Collinsville, MS 10 42-00 106
Day 1: 5 20-08 Day 2: 5 21-08
6. Justin Lucas Guntersville, AL 10 41-11 105
Day 1: 5 21-08 Day 2: 5 20-03
7. Brent Ehrler Redlands, CA 10 41-09 104
Day 1: 5 22-09 Day 2: 5 19-00
8. Bernie Schultz Gainesville, FL 10 41-08 103
Day 1: 5 21-12 Day 2: 5 19-12
9. Brandon Palaniuk Hayden, ID 10 40-15 102
Day 1: 5 15-15 Day 2: 5 25-00
10. Dustin Connell Clanton, AL 10 40-03 101
Day 1: 5 19-09 Day 2: 5 20-10
11. James Elam Tulsa, OK 10 39-13 100
Day 1: 5 21-12 Day 2: 5 18-01
12. David Walker Sevierville, TN 10 39-12 99
Day 1: 5 19-02 Day 2: 5 20-10
13. Bill Lowen Brookville, IN 10 39-09 98
Day 1: 5 23-06 Day 2: 5 16-03
14. Jesse Wiggins Cullman, AL 10 38-15 97
Day 1: 5 21-10 Day 2: 5 17-05
15. Josh Bertrand San Tan Valley, AZ 10 38-12 96
Day 1: 5 19-07 Day 2: 5 19-05
16. Dave Lefebre Erie, PA 10 38-10 95
Day 1: 5 21-11 Day 2: 5 16-15
17. Jason Christie Park Hill, OK 10 38-09 94
Day 1: 5 19-09 Day 2: 5 19-00
18. Seth Feider Isle, MN 10 38-06 93
Day 1: 5 22-11 Day 2: 5 15-11
19. Alton Jones Lorena, TX 10 38-06 92
Day 1: 5 20-06 Day 2: 5 18-00
20. Gerald Swindle Guntersville, AL 10 38-04 91
Day 1: 5 18-12 Day 2: 5 19-08
21. John Murray Spring City, TN 10 38-00 90
Day 1: 5 18-14 Day 2: 5 19-02
22. Cliff Pace Petal, MS 10 37-15 89
Day 1: 5 17-06 Day 2: 5 20-09
23. Keith Combs Huntington, TX 10 37-15 88
Day 1: 5 20-08 Day 2: 5 17-07
24. Chad Pipkens Lansing, MI 10 37-12 87
Day 1: 5 18-15 Day 2: 5 18-13
25. Brandon Card Knoxville, TN 10 37-09 86
Day 1: 5 18-05 Day 2: 5 19-04
26. Marty Robinson Lyman, SC 10 37-08 85
Day 1: 5 22-04 Day 2: 5 15-04
27. Greg Hackney Gonzales, LA 10 37-07 84
Day 1: 5 19-01 Day 2: 5 18-06
28. Brandon Lester Fayetteville, TN 10 37-04 83
Day 1: 5 15-10 Day 2: 5 21-10
29. Jacob Powroznik North Prince George, VA 10 37-04 82
Day 1: 5 17-04 Day 2: 5 20-00
30. Jamie Hartman Newport, NY 10 36-13 81
Day 1: 5 19-00 Day 2: 5 17-13
31. Russ Lane Prattville, AL 10 36-05 80
Day 1: 5 20-08 Day 2: 5 15-13
32. Matt Herren Ashville, AL 10 36-05 79
Day 1: 5 17-10 Day 2: 5 18-11
33. Takahiro Omori Emory, TX 10 36-04 78
Day 1: 5 20-01 Day 2: 5 16-03
34. Koby Kreiger Bokeelia, FL 10 36-04 77
Day 1: 5 18-13 Day 2: 5 17-07
35. Chris Lane Guntersville, AL 10 36-03 76
Day 1: 5 19-12 Day 2: 5 16-07
36. Luke Clausen Otis Orchards, WA 10 36-00 75
Day 1: 5 17-04 Day 2: 5 18-12
37. Edwin Evers Talala, OK 10 35-13 74
Day 1: 5 21-02 Day 2: 5 14-11
38. Brett Hite Phoenix, AZ 10 35-13 73
Day 1: 5 19-14 Day 2: 5 15-15
39. Clifford Pirch Payson, AZ 10 35-12 72
Day 1: 5 16-05 Day 2: 5 19-07
40. Skeet Reese Auburn, CA 10 35-08 71
Day 1: 5 17-07 Day 2: 5 18-01
41. Jared Lintner Arroyo Grande, CA 10 35-05 70
Day 1: 5 19-11 Day 2: 5 15-10
42. Tim Horton Muscle Shoals, AL 10 35-04 69
Day 1: 5 13-10 Day 2: 5 21-10
43. Drew Benton Panama City, FL 10 35-03 68
Day 1: 5 14-07 Day 2: 5 20-12
44. Aaron Martens Leeds, AL 10 35-03 67
Day 1: 5 16-10 Day 2: 5 18-09
45. Robbie Latuso Gonzales, LA 10 35-03 66
Day 1: 5 18-05 Day 2: 5 16-14
46. Jason Williamson Wagener, SC 10 35-01 65
Day 1: 5 17-06 Day 2: 5 17-11
47. Hank Cherry Jr Lincolnton, NC 10 35-00 64
Day 1: 5 16-10 Day 2: 5 18-06
48. Jacob Wheeler Harrison, TN 10 35-00 63
Day 1: 5 18-00 Day 2: 5 17-00
49. David Mullins Mt Carmel, TN 10 34-14 62
Day 1: 5 14-15 Day 2: 5 19-15
50. Britt Myers Lake Wylie, SC 10 34-13 61
Day 1: 5 19-03 Day 2: 5 15-10
51. Brian Snowden Reeds Spring, MO 10 34-13 60
Day 1: 5 18-15 Day 2: 5 15-14
52. Gary Klein Mingus, TX 10 34-12 59
Day 1: 5 19-03 Day 2: 5 15-09
53. Michael Iaconelli Pitts Grove, NJ 10 34-08 58
Day 1: 5 20-09 Day 2: 5 13-15
54. Cliff Prince Palatka, FL 10 34-03 57
Day 1: 5 16-03 Day 2: 5 18-00
55. Randall Tharp Port St. Joe, FL 10 33-14 56
Day 1: 5 20-11 Day 2: 5 13-03
56. Ish Monroe Hughson, CA 10 33-11 55
Day 1: 5 15-01 Day 2: 5 18-10
57. Scott Rook Little Rock, AR 10 33-08 54
Day 1: 5 17-05 Day 2: 5 16-03
58. Jeff Kriet Ardmore, OK 10 33-07 53
Day 1: 5 15-05 Day 2: 5 18-02
59. Bradley Roy Lancaster, KY 10 33-03 52
Day 1: 5 16-15 Day 2: 5 16-04
60. Steve Kennedy Auburn, AL 10 33-01 51
Day 1: 5 16-03 Day 2: 5 16-14
61. David Williams Newton, NC 10 33-00 50
Day 1: 5 18-05 Day 2: 5 14-11
62. Kelley Jaye Dadeville, AL 10 32-15 49
Day 1: 5 19-05 Day 2: 5 13-10
63. Alton Jones Jr. Lorena, TX 10 32-13 48
Day 1: 5 15-00 Day 2: 5 17-13
64. Randy Howell Guntersville, AL 10 32-09 47
Day 1: 5 15-07 Day 2: 5 17-02
65. Matt Lee Guntersville, AL 10 32-08 46
Day 1: 5 18-10 Day 2: 5 13-14
66. Todd Faircloth Jasper, TX 10 32-06 45
Day 1: 5 16-11 Day 2: 5 15-11
67. John Crews Jr Salem, VA 10 32-04 44
Day 1: 5 19-07 Day 2: 5 12-13
68. Kelly Jordon Flint, TX 10 32-04 43
Day 1: 5 16-03 Day 2: 5 16-01
69. Boyd Duckett Guntersville, AL 10 32-00 42
Day 1: 5 15-07 Day 2: 5 16-09
70. Micah Frazier Newnan, GA 10 31-14 41
Day 1: 5 18-04 Day 2: 5 13-10
71. Paul Mueller Naugatuck, CT 10 31-14 40
Day 1: 5 14-05 Day 2: 5 17-09
72. Mike McClelland Bella Vista, AR 10 31-09 39
Day 1: 5 19-09 Day 2: 5 12-00
73. Mark Daniels Jr. Tuskegee, AL 10 31-09 38
Day 1: 5 18-13 Day 2: 5 12-12
74. Jordan Lee Grant, AL 10 31-09 37
Day 1: 5 18-05 Day 2: 5 13-04
75. Mark Davis Mount Ida, AR 10 31-07 36
Day 1: 5 17-10 Day 2: 5 13-13
76. Adrian Avena Vineland, NJ 9 31-04 35
Day 1: 5 18-10 Day 2: 4 12-10
77. Stetson Blaylock Benton, AR 10 30-14 34
Day 1: 5 15-06 Day 2: 5 15-08
78. Cliff Crochet Pierre Part, LA 10 30-10 33
Day 1: 5 16-03 Day 2: 5 14-07
79. Gerald Spohrer Gonzales, LA 10 30-09 32
Day 1: 5 13-07 Day 2: 5 17-02
80. James Niggemeyer Van, TX 10 30-09 31
Day 1: 5 16-01 Day 2: 5 14-08
81. Stephen Browning Hot Springs, AR 10 30-08 30
Day 1: 5 15-04 Day 2: 5 15-04
82. Greg Vinson Wetumpka, AL 10 30-07 29
Day 1: 5 18-03 Day 2: 5 12-04
83. Jesse Tacoronte Orlando, FL 10 30-07 28
Day 1: 5 16-07 Day 2: 5 14-00
84. Terry Scroggins San Mateo, FL 10 29-12 27
Day 1: 5 16-04 Day 2: 5 13-08
85. Clent Davis Montevallo, AL 10 29-09 26
Day 1: 5 14-06 Day 2: 5 15-03
86. Brent Chapman Lake Quivira, KS 10 29-07 25
Day 1: 5 14-03 Day 2: 5 15-04
87. Darrell Ocamica New Plymouth, ID 10 28-15 24
Day 1: 5 13-13 Day 2: 5 15-02
88. Fletcher Shryock New Philadelphia, OH 10 28-12 23
Day 1: 5 14-15 Day 2: 5 13-13
89. Chad Morgenthaler Reeds Spring, MO 10 28-11 22
Day 1: 5 13-09 Day 2: 5 15-02
90. Chris Zaldain Laughlin, NV 9 28-09 21
Day 1: 4 10-01 Day 2: 5 18-08
91. Mark Menendez Paducah, KY 10 28-06 20
Day 1: 5 15-04 Day 2: 5 13-02
92. Brett Preuett Monroe, LA 10 28-05 19
Day 1: 5 11-10 Day 2: 5 16-11
93. Tommy Biffle Wagoner, OK 10 27-13 18
Day 1: 5 15-05 Day 2: 5 12-08
94. Andy Montgomery Blacksburg, SC 10 27-11 17
Day 1: 5 11-07 Day 2: 5 16-04
95. Dean Rojas Lake Havasu City, AZ 10 27-09 16
Day 1: 5 12-06 Day 2: 5 15-03
96. Shaw Grigsby Jr. Gainesville, FL 10 27-07 15
Day 1: 5 14-11 Day 2: 5 12-12
97. Tyler Carriere Youngsville, LA 10 27-02 14
Day 1: 5 08-07 Day 2: 5 18-11
98. David Fritts Lexington, NC 10 27-00 13
Day 1: 5 09-02 Day 2: 5 17-14
99. Ott DeFoe Knoxville, TN 8 26-03 12
Day 1: 5 16-12 Day 2: 3 09-07
100. Fred Roumbanis London, AR 10 25-15 11
Day 1: 5 15-13 Day 2: 5 10-02
101. Rick Clunn Ava, MO 10 25-14 10
Day 1: 5 12-14 Day 2: 5 13-00
102. John Hunter Jr Shelbyville, KY 10 25-02 9
Day 1: 5 12-07 Day 2: 5 12-11
103. Bobby Lane Jr. Lakeland, FL 10 24-14 8
Day 1: 5 13-12 Day 2: 5 11-02
104. Keith Poche Pike Road, AL 10 24-08 7
Day 1: 5 09-05 Day 2: 5 15-03
105. Paul Elias Laurel, MS 10 23-06 6
Day 1: 5 10-10 Day 2: 5 12-12
106. Skylar Hamilton Dandridge, TN 9 22-08 5
Day 1: 4 10-02 Day 2: 5 12-06
107. Morizo Shimizu Suita, Osaka JAPAN 9 20-12 4
Day 1: 5 14-01 Day 2: 4 06-11
108. Shane Lineberger Lincolnton, NC 4 11-13 3
Day 1: 3 09-12 Day 2: 1 02-01
109. Chad Grigsby Maple Grove, MN 1 05-09 2
Day 1: 1 05-09 Day 2: 0 00-

by AnglersChannel

Iaconelli’s Smallmouth Smorgasbord

Mike Iaconelli jumped out of his Toyota Tundra shaking his head in amazement at the weighty limits of smallmouth that were brought to the scales on the first day of competition at the Bassmaster Elite Series on the St. Lawrence River.

“They smashed ‘em yesterday!” exclaimed Iaconelli, as he removed the motor toter from his Yamaha in preparation for Day 2 launch.

Fact is, Iaconelli smashed them too. He brought 20 pounds to the scales, yet still, it was only good enough for 14^th place.

"These fish have so much to eat, such an incredible forage base, they’ve just all grown up and gotten bigger over the years here,” says Iaconelli in reference to his 20 years of tournament fishing experience on the massive St. Lawrence that connects Lake Ontario to the Atlantic Ocean.

“In the 1990s it was all about largemouth fishing near Clayton and Alexandria Bay, and then, the gobies invaded Lake Ontario, and the smallmouth fishing got really good in the big lake. But these days this main river right here near Waddington is so healthy with a smorgasbord of forage to feast on that the smallmouth are just flourishing,” says Ike.

“When I caught fish in practice here earlier this week, they spit-up everything from gobies to smelt, plus tiny perch, crawfish and alewife. It’s crazy how much food they have to eat here,” explains the 2006 Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year.

The leaderboard proves Ike’s theory correct. His Toyota teammate, Kevin VanDam busted a massive 24-pound limit anchored by a 6-pound beast of a bronzeback, and those who caught a typically very respectful 15-pound limit, found themselves all the way down in 80^th place after the first day of competition.

So what lures does Iaconelli lean on most for mimicking the smallmouth-growing groceries of the St. Lawrence?

Tube Jigs – “Green pumpkin with black fleck, or watermelon with gold fleck are my two favorites, and they both resemble so many of the natural forage these fish feast on.”

Drop Shot – “I’m loving the brand new Berkley PowerBait MaxScent Hit Worm that just came out at the ICAST show last week. Smallmouth are all about feeding by scent and sight, and not only does that bait look natural, but it’s packed with scent too.”

4” Swimbait – “It seems like the biggest smallmouth always bite a swimbait because it’s just a hair larger than the other lures they see a lot of. And while big smallies may not eat as often, when they do, it seems like they want a big meal.”

Iaconelli might not be the part-time chef that Terry “Big Show” Scroggins is, but he certainly knows what to feed a smallmouth, and here on the St. Lawrence River that includes a wide variety of ‘groceries’ and lots of them.

by AnglersChannel

Kevin VanDam Takes Early Lead At Bassmaster Elite At The St. Lawrence River

Kevin VanDam of Kalamazoo, Mich., took the lead on the first day of the Huk Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence River presented by Go RVing, bringing 24 pounds, 5 ounces to the scales on Thursday.
Photo by Seigo Saito/B.A.S.S.

July 20, 2017

Kevin VanDam Takes Early Lead At Bassmaster Elite At The St. Lawrence River

WADDINGTON, N.Y. — After one round of the Huk Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence presented by Go RVing, a familiar storyline has emerged.

Kevin VanDam, the Michigan superstar who already holds two B.A.S.S. victories on the St. Lawrence River, caught five bass Thursday that weighed 24 pounds, 5 ounces to take the lead in his latest chance at a big win on the fishery that splits upstate New York and Canada.

“Back when we used to have a lot of tournaments up here, I always fished the lake (Ontario),” said VanDam, who won two events on the St. Lawrence in 1995 and 1999. “I never really fished the river back then. So, every time I come here I learn a little bit more about it.”

Lake Ontario is off limits this year as it has been for the last two Elite Series trips to the St. Lawrence River.

VanDam said it was hard to gauge his chances of winning the $100,000 first-place prize after just one day because the fishing is so sporadic. He doesn’t know how his pattern will play out over a four-day event.

“There’s not huge numbers of fish,” he said. “It’s not like I’m working through hundreds of fish to get the ones I’m bringing to the scales. You pull up into a spot and you might catch one or two, but that’s it.

“You certainly can’t script it to know that you’re going to catch the kind of size I was able to catch today.”

The river is at its highest level in a century, but the conditions certainly didn’t seem to hurt the fishing. The Top 83 competitors in the 109-angler field caught at least 15 pounds of bass, and it took 20-1 to make the Top 20.

“The one thing the high water has done is changed the current,” VanDam said. “There used to be places where I would fish closer to the bank and the current would just be ripping. But now with the water higher, it seems slower in some of those places.

“With all of this water, it just seems like it’s fast in some places and slower in others — it definitely has changed.”

VanDam’s catch was only slight better than that of Virginia angler Bill Lowen, who placed second with 23-6.

Lowen — a noted shallow-water angler — brought all smallmouth to the scales Thursday, including two 5-pounders.

“I actually thought I had two 6-pounders, but they were just real long with no bellies,” said Lowen, who has 17 Top 10 finishes with B.A.S.S., but no wins. “In the area I was fishing, I think they were feeding on perch, crawfish and all kinds of little minnows.”

Third place was occupied by Seth Feider — a noted smallmouth specialist, whose fortunes took a big upward swing when the Elite Series schedule moved north last year.

“I didn’t execute that well today,” said Feider, who caught 22-11. “I could have done a little better, maybe another pound or so. But I’ve definitely got a lot of spots going.

“I was pretty much done by 10 a.m. today, so I went looking — and because of that, I found another really good spot around 2 o’clock.”

With the Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year race headed down its final stretch, the names at the top of the list shifted Thursday. South Carolina angler Casey Ashley caught 21-14 — good for sixth place in the tournament — and overtook Tennessee pro Ott DeFoe as the AOY leader.

VanDam moved into second in the AOY standings, with Jason Christie, Edwin Evers, Jacob Wheeler and DeFoe following close behind.

VanDam also moved into the early lead for the Phoenix Boats Big Bass Award of the week with a bass that weighed 6-1.

The tournament will resume Friday, with a 6:15 a.m. ET take off from Whittaker Park. The weigh-in will be held back at the park at 3:15 p.m.

At the end of Friday’s second round, the 109-angler field will be trimmed to the Top 51. After Saturday’s semifinal, only the Top 12 will advance to Championship Sunday.

The event is hosted by the Village of Waddington.

2017 Bassmaster Elite Series Platinum Sponsor: Toyota

2017 Bassmaster Elite Series Premier Sponsors: Minn Kota, Power-Pole, Shell Rotella, Skeeter Boats, Triton Boats, Yamaha, Berkley, Huk, Humminbird, Nitro Boats, Mercury

2017 Bassmaster Elite Series Supporting Sponsors: Advance Auto Parts, Livingston Lures, Academy Sports + Outdoors, Carhartt, Dick Cepek Tires & Wheels, Lowrance, Phoenix Boats, T-H Marine, Shimano

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Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$

1. Kevin VanDam Kalamazoo, MI 5 24-05 110
Day 1: 5 24-05
2. Bill Lowen Brookville, IN 5 23-06 109
Day 1: 5 23-06
3. Seth Feider Isle, MN 5 22-11 108
Day 1: 5 22-11
4. Brent Ehrler Redlands, CA 5 22-09 107
Day 1: 5 22-09
5. Marty Robinson Lyman, SC 5 22-04 106
Day 1: 5 22-04
6. Casey Ashley Donalds, SC 5 21-14 105
Day 1: 5 21-14
7. James Elam Tulsa, OK 5 21-12 104
Day 1: 5 21-12
8. Bernie Schultz Gainesville, FL 5 21-12 103
Day 1: 5 21-12
9. Dave Lefebre Erie, PA 5 21-11 102
Day 1: 5 21-11
10. Jesse Wiggins Cullman, AL 5 21-10 101
Day 1: 5 21-10
11. Justin Lucas Guntersville, AL 5 21-08 100
Day 1: 5 21-08
12. Edwin Evers Talala, OK 5 21-02 99
Day 1: 5 21-02
13. Randall Tharp Port St. Joe, FL 5 20-11 98
Day 1: 5 20-11
14. Michael Iaconelli Pitts Grove, NJ 5 20-09 97
Day 1: 5 20-09
14. Jonathon VanDam Kalamazoo, MI 5 20-09 97
Day 1: 5 20-09
16. Keith Combs Huntington, TX 5 20-08 95
Day 1: 5 20-08
16. Russ Lane Prattville, AL 5 20-08 95
Day 1: 5 20-08
16. Brock Mosley Collinsville, MS 5 20-08 95
Day 1: 5 20-08
19. Alton Jones Lorena, TX 5 20-06 92
Day 1: 5 20-06
20. Takahiro Omori Emory, TX 5 20-01 91
Day 1: 5 20-01
21. Brett Hite Phoenix, AZ 5 19-14 90
Day 1: 5 19-14
22. Chris Lane Guntersville, AL 5 19-12 89
Day 1: 5 19-12
23. Jared Lintner Arroyo Grande, CA 5 19-11 88
Day 1: 5 19-11
24. Brandon Coulter Knoxville, TN 5 19-10 87
Day 1: 5 19-10
25. Dustin Connell Clanton, AL 5 19-09 86
Day 1: 5 19-09
25. Mike McClelland Bella Vista, AR 5 19-09 86
Day 1: 5 19-09
27. Jason Christie Park Hill, OK 5 19-09 84
Day 1: 5 19-09
28. Josh Bertrand San Tan Valley, AZ 5 19-07 83
Day 1: 5 19-07
29. John Crews Jr Salem, VA 5 19-07 82
Day 1: 5 19-07
30. Kelley Jaye Dadeville, AL 5 19-05 81
Day 1: 5 19-05
31. Gary Klein Mingus, TX 5 19-03 80
Day 1: 5 19-03
31. Britt Myers Lake Wylie, SC 5 19-03 80
Day 1: 5 19-03
33. David Walker Sevierville, TN 5 19-02 78
Day 1: 5 19-02
34. Greg Hackney Gonzales, LA 5 19-01 77
Day 1: 5 19-01
35. Jamie Hartman Newport, NY 5 19-00 76
Day 1: 5 19-00
36. Brian Snowden Reeds Spring, MO 5 18-15 75
Day 1: 5 18-15
37. Chad Pipkens Lansing, MI 5 18-15 74
Day 1: 5 18-15
38. John Murray Spring City, TN 5 18-14 73
Day 1: 5 18-14
39. Mark Daniels Jr. Tuskegee, AL 5 18-13 72
Day 1: 5 18-13
39. Koby Kreiger Bokeelia, FL 5 18-13 72
Day 1: 5 18-13
41. Gerald Swindle Guntersville, AL 5 18-12 70
Day 1: 5 18-12
42. Adrian Avena Vineland, NJ 5 18-10 69
Day 1: 5 18-10
42. Matt Lee Guntersville, AL 5 18-10 69
Day 1: 5 18-10
44. Brandon Card Knoxville, TN 5 18-05 67
Day 1: 5 18-05
44. Robbie Latuso Gonzales, LA 5 18-05 67
Day 1: 5 18-05
44. Jordan Lee Grant, AL 5 18-05 67
Day 1: 5 18-05
44. David Williams Newton, NC 5 18-05 67
Day 1: 5 18-05
48. Micah Frazier Newnan, GA 5 18-04 63
Day 1: 5 18-04
49. Greg Vinson Wetumpka, AL 5 18-03 62
Day 1: 5 18-03
50. Jacob Wheeler Harrison, TN 5 18-00 61
Day 1: 5 18-00
51. Mark Davis Mount Ida, AR 5 17-10 60
Day 1: 5 17-10
51. Matt Herren Ashville, AL 5 17-10 60
Day 1: 5 17-10
53. Skeet Reese Auburn, CA 5 17-07 58
Day 1: 5 17-07
54. Cliff Pace Petal, MS 5 17-06 57
Day 1: 5 17-06
54. Jason Williamson Wagener, SC 5 17-06 57
Day 1: 5 17-06
56. Scott Rook Little Rock, AR 5 17-05 55
Day 1: 5 17-05
57. Luke Clausen Otis Orchards, WA 5 17-04 54
Day 1: 5 17-04
57. Jacob Powroznik North Prince George, VA 5 17-04 54
Day 1: 5 17-04
59. Bradley Roy Lancaster, KY 5 16-15 52
Day 1: 5 16-15
60. Ott DeFoe Knoxville, TN 5 16-12 51
Day 1: 5 16-12
61. Todd Faircloth Jasper, TX 5 16-11 50
Day 1: 5 16-11
62. Hank Cherry Jr Lincolnton, NC 5 16-10 49
Day 1: 5 16-10
62. Aaron Martens Leeds, AL 5 16-10 49
Day 1: 5 16-10
64. Jesse Tacoronte Orlando, FL 5 16-07 47
Day 1: 5 16-07
65. Clifford Pirch Payson, AZ 5 16-05 46
Day 1: 5 16-05
66. Terry Scroggins San Mateo, FL 5 16-04 45
Day 1: 5 16-04
67. Cliff Crochet Pierre Part, LA 5 16-03 44
Day 1: 5 16-03
67. Kelly Jordon Flint, TX 5 16-03 44
Day 1: 5 16-03
67. Steve Kennedy Auburn, AL 5 16-03 44
Day 1: 5 16-03
67. Cliff Prince Palatka, FL 5 16-03 44
Day 1: 5 16-03
71. James Niggemeyer Van, TX 5 16-01 40
Day 1: 5 16-01
72. Brandon Palaniuk Hayden, ID 5 15-15 39
Day 1: 5 15-15
73. Fred Roumbanis London, AR 5 15-13 38
Day 1: 5 15-13
74. Brandon Lester Fayetteville, TN 5 15-10 37
Day 1: 5 15-10
75. Boyd Duckett Guntersville, AL 5 15-07 36
Day 1: 5 15-07
75. Randy Howell Guntersville, AL 5 15-07 36
Day 1: 5 15-07
77. Stetson Blaylock Benton, AR 5 15-06 34
Day 1: 5 15-06
78. Tommy Biffle Wagoner, OK 5 15-05 33
Day 1: 5 15-05
78. Jeff Kriet Ardmore, OK 5 15-05 33
Day 1: 5 15-05
80. Mark Menendez Paducah, KY 5 15-04 31
Day 1: 5 15-04
81. Stephen Browning Hot Springs, AR 5 15-04 30
Day 1: 5 15-04
82. Ish Monroe Hughson, CA 5 15-01 29
Day 1: 5 15-01
83. Alton Jones Jr. Lorena, TX 5 15-00 28
Day 1: 5 15-00
84. David Mullins Mt Carmel, TN 5 14-15 27
Day 1: 5 14-15
84. Fletcher Shryock New Philadelphia, OH 5 14-15 27
Day 1: 5 14-15
86. Shaw Grigsby Jr. Gainesville, FL 5 14-11 25
Day 1: 5 14-11
87. Drew Benton Panama City, FL 5 14-07 24
Day 1: 5 14-07
88. Clent Davis Montevallo, AL 5 14-06 23
Day 1: 5 14-06
89. Paul Mueller Naugatuck, CT 5 14-05 22
Day 1: 5 14-05
90. Brent Chapman Lake Quivira, KS 5 14-03 21
Day 1: 5 14-03
91. Morizo Shimizu Suita, Osaka JAPAN 5 14-01 20
Day 1: 5 14-01
92. Darrell Ocamica New Plymouth, ID 5 13-13 19
Day 1: 5 13-13
93. Bobby Lane Jr. Lakeland, FL 5 13-12 18
Day 1: 5 13-12
94. Tim Horton Muscle Shoals, AL 5 13-10 17
Day 1: 5 13-10
95. Chad Morgenthaler Reeds Spring, MO 5 13-09 16
Day 1: 5 13-09
96. Gerald Spohrer Gonzales, LA 5 13-07 15
Day 1: 5 13-07
97. Rick Clunn Ava, MO 5 12-14 14
Day 1: 5 12-14
98. John Hunter Jr Shelbyville, KY 5 12-07 13
Day 1: 5 12-07
99. Dean Rojas Lake Havasu City, AZ 5 12-06 12
Day 1: 5 12-06
100. Brett Preuett Monroe, LA 5 11-10 11
Day 1: 5 11-10
101. Andy Montgomery Blacksburg, SC 5 11-07 10
Day 1: 5 11-07
102. Paul Elias Laurel, MS 5 10-10 9
Day 1: 5 10-10
103. Skylar Hamilton Dandridge, TN 4 10-02 8
Day 1: 4 10-02
104. Chris Zaldain Laughlin, NV 4 10-01 7
Day 1: 4 10-01
105. Shane Lineberger Lincolnton, NC 3 09-12 6
Day 1: 3 09-12
106. Keith Poche Pike Road, AL 5 09-05 5
Day 1: 5 09-05
107. David Fritts Lexington, NC 5 09-02 4
Day 1: 5 09-02
108. Tyler Carriere Youngsville, LA 5 08-07 3
Day 1: 5 08-07
109. Chad Grigsby Maple Grove, MN 1 05-09 2
Day 1: 1 05-09

by AnglersChannel

Marina Fire on Lake Texoma Consumes 10-to-15 'Big' Boats

A big fire broke out on a Lake Texoma marina dock Wednesday morning destroying 10-to-15 boats, including some yachts. Several explosions were also reported at the disaster that occurred at Highport Marina.

The Dallas-Fort Worth CBS affiliate reports:

POTTSBORO, Texas (CBSDFW.COM) – A fire and several explosions broke out at a marina on Lake Texoma Wednesday morning.

The fire, and subsequent explosions, started on U Dock at the Highport Marina in Pottsboro. Flames and thick, black smoke could be seen for miles.

Officials don’t yet know how the fire started but flames spread from boat to boat. Witnesses said that a maintenance crew was working on a boat when it caught fire.

Texas Game Warden Capt. Steve Stapleton said there are 10 to 15 “large boats” on fire and every one of them will like burn into the water.

Stapleton said most of the boats are ‘high-end’ and some of them are yachts.

One woman who owns a detailing business in the area said, “I feel very helpless for sure… I feel very sorry for a lot of clients [and] boat owners for sure.”

The Grayson County Fire Marshal is in charge of the investigation.

Officials said that up to 15 boats and a dock were destroyed. Boat owners said that the damage could top one million dollars.

A post on the marina’s Facebook page said that no one was hurt in the incident.

by AnglersChannel

Y'all Play Nice and Follow Us on Instagram

“Put your best foot forward.” It was solid advice when your grandma gave it to you. It holds true today. And you know it.

So why all the negativity on social media when someone highlights a big fish in the most desirable light and at the best camera angle to show off its size and beauty?

In a word: Insecurity.

As we at @AnglersChannel have been following our fishing friends on Instagram we’ve noticed some disheartening comments from some, apparently, bitter souls.

Post a pic of a big one and most folks will appreciate your accomplishment, leave words of encouragement, and celebrate with you.

BUT then the armchair bass pros will emerge from their sofas to remark that the fish isn’t that big. You pulled a trick or two to make it look big. In fact, it’s probably a 3-pounder, not a 7. Never mind that many of these know-it-alls haven’t caught even a 3-pounder in a while.

I guess we’re supposed to take our 7-pound bass, run off 50 yards away and snug it up tight to our chest so it looks like a tiny bluegill. That might make some of these wise-crackers feel less insecure about the size of their . . . bass.

Seriously, would you want your wife or girlfriend to go out someplace special with absolutely no makeup? Some are gorgeous enough to do so, but they will always look better with just a touch here or there, the right clothes for their body type, etc.

Your truck probably has a coat of paint on it right? Well, maybe that’s not the best example. But you get my point.

Hold that fish up and out proudly! Make it look as big as you can. It’s more fun for all of us that way – even if we are laughing along with you a little.

Put your best foot forward.

Or in this case, put your best fish forward. And ignore those petty, jealous, miserable souls in the peanut gallery.

And hey, be sure to tag @AnglersChannel in the pic so we can help you show it off. Yes, we’re among those who are happy to see big fish pics so share ‘em with us!

Yeah, @thebrookster a.k.a. Brooke Thomas, is long-arming this fish. Do you care?

by AnglersChannel

Carhartt Countdown to Blastoff with Sportsman's Warehouse!

by AnglersChannel

VanDam says look for more largemouth on the St. Lawrence

Much of the talk coming into the Bassmaster Elite on the St. Lawrence River centered on unusually high water on the massive seaway that connects the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean.

However, Kevin VanDam says lofty water levels will only increase catches of largemouth from the 71-degree waters that create an aquatic buffet for up to 13 species of whales a couple hundred miles upriver from the Elite Series venue in Waddington, New York.

“Smallmouth definitely dominated and got the victory the last two times we competed here, but the high water we’re facing this week has sent far more largemouth shallow than what we’ve seen in the past,” says VanDam. “So largemouth will definitely play a bigger role in what guys will bring to the scales this year.”

Hence on the final day of practice, anglers must decide whether to focus on flippin’ and froggin’ for largemouth in the shallows, or draggin’ and droppin’ vertically for deeper water smallmouth on the main river.

As evidenced by the iconic soft plastic tube VanDam had tied to a Quantum Smoke spinning reel for dragging over deep water smallmouth, and in the other hand, a much contrasting swim jig for largemouth in the weedy shallows -- rest assured, the 7-time Bassmaster Toyota Angler of the Year will prepare for both.

by AnglersChannel

MARTINKOVIC WINS T-H MARINE FLW BFL BUCKEYE DIVISION EVENT ON OHIO RIVER

Lindsey Earns Co-angler Title

LAWRENCEBURG, Ind. (July 17, 2017) – Chris Martinkovic of Hamilton, Ohio, won the T-H Marine FLW Bass Fishing League (BFL) Buckeye Division tournament on the Ohio River Saturday after catching five bass weighing 9 pounds, 2 ounces. For his efforts, Martinkovic took home $6,640.

“I only fished about five miles from the takeoff ramp because the main river is flooded and there was a lot of debris,” said Martinkovic, who notched his fifth career-win in BFL competition – third on the Ohio River. “I picked apart flooded wood in less than 2 feet of water and caught 10 to 15 keepers.

“The majority of my fish were caught on a black (D&L Tackle) Advantage Jig with a black (Zoom) Super Chunk Jr. trailer,” continued Martinkovic. “I hit about 20 small areas with debris and logjams and did a lot of culling.”

Martinkovic said his personal history on the river was a crucial part of his success.

“It’s my home pool, so I know just about every piece of wood out there,” said Martinkovic. “When it’s muddy like that you have to put your head down and fish. There weren’t too many secrets out there.”

The top 10 boaters finished the tournament in:

1^st: Chris Martinkovic, Hamilton, Ohio, five bass, 9-2, $4,640 + $2,000 Ranger Cup Bonus

2^nd: Chris Wilkinson, Farmersburg, Ind., five bass, 7-7, $1,730

2^nd: James Hailstones, Cincinnati, Ohio, five bass, 7-7, $1,730

4^th: Sean Wieda, Florence, Ky., five bass, 7-5, $970

5^th: Ronald Nutter, Saint Louisville, Ohio, five bass, 7-2, $931

6^th: Cody Seeger, Lewistown, Ohio, five bass, 6-15, $762

7^th: Mike Combs, Frenchburg, Ky., five bass, 6-14, $693

8^th: Dave Fricke, Hamilton, Ohio, three bass, 6-11, $623

9^th: Josh Smith, Hamilton, Ohio, five bass, 6-10, $554

10^th: Craig Burwell, North Baltimore, Ohio, five bass, 6-7, $485

Complete results can be found at FLWFishing.com.

Martinkovic’s limit included a 3-pound, 11-ounce bass – the heaviest of the event in the Boater Division – and earned the day’s Boater Big Bass award of $285.

Colton Lindsey of Raymond, Ohio, won the Co-angler Division and $2,178 Saturday after catching four bass weighing 5 pounds, 11 ounces.

The top 10 co-anglers were:

1^st: Colton Lindsey, Raymond, Ohio, four bass, 5-11, $2,178

2^nd: Kenny Mitchell, Franklin, Ohio, five bass, 5-7, $1,039

3^rd: Gary Hoffman, Stoutsville, Ohio, three bass, 5-6, $691

4^th: Jeffrey Yost, Zanesfield, Ohio, three bass, 4-15, $770

5^th: Lawrence Clontz, Middletown, Ohio, four bass, 4-5, $416

6^th: Brett Warrick, Westerville, Ohio, four bass, 4-2, $431

7^th: Bill Cordle, London, Ohio, two bass, 3-14, $346

8^th: Ryan Sykes, Hamilton, Ohio, two bass, 3-13, $312

9^th: Hunter Fillmore, Waynesville, Ohio, two bass, 3-8, $277

10^th: Herbert Jones, Cincinnati, Ohio, two bass, 3-5, $242

Yost caught the largest bass in the Co-angler Division – a fish weighing 3 pounds, 3 ounces – and earned the day’s Co-angler Big Bass award of $285.

For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the BFL on Facebook at Facebook.com/FLWFishing and on Twitter at Twitter.com/FLWFishing.

by AnglersChannel

TENNESSEE’S BOGGS WINS T-H MARINE FLW BFL LBL DIVISION EVENT ON KENTUCKY LAKES

Pierce Claims Co-angler Title

GILBERTSVILLE, Ky. (July 17, 2017) – Drew Boggs of Lebanon, Tennessee, won the T-H Marine FLW Bass Fishing League (BFL) LBL Division tournament on Kentucky and Barkley lakes Saturday after catching a five-bass limit weighing 24 pounds, 11 ounces. Boggs took home $4,498 for his victory.

“Saturday was a special day on the water,” said Boggs, who earned his fifth career-victory in BFL competition. “I fished the same pattern recently in another tournament held on Kentucky Lake, but didn’t catch them like I did this weekend. I can’t tell you what made the difference. It was just a great day.”

Boggs said he spent his entire day fishing south of Paris Landing. He said he delivered a one-two punch of fishing ledges out deep and flipping wood up shallow to craft his limit.

“My two biggest bass came from the ledges on a prototype jig from Jenko Fishing,” said Boggs. “Around 9:30 (a.m.) I headed to main-lake shallows and flipped trees, laydowns and bushes to round out my limit.”

Boggs said he sat in 2 to 3 feet of water and threw a Tilapia-colored Big Bite Baits Craw Tube with a Jenko Creature Weight.

“I’d hop it up right under the surface and then let it fall freely,” said Boggs. “I put 20 good keepers in the boat just flipping the tube - it was nuts.”

The top 10 boaters finished the tournament in:

1^st: Drew Boggs, Lebanon, Tenn., five bass, 24-11, $4,498

2^nd: Ed Rounsaville, Indianapolis, Ind., five bass, 19-13, $1,981

3^rd: Cole Floyd, Leesburg, Ohio, five bass, 19-4, $1,322

4^th: Peter Merkel, Lynnville, Ind., five bass, 19-1, $925

5^th: Harry Barber, Earlington, Ky., five bass, 18-11, $793

6^th: Josh Malone, Alma, Ill., five bass, 17-8, $993

6^th: Stephen Barga, Benton, Ky., five bass, 17-8, $893

8^th: John Hopkins, Hendersonville, Tenn., five bass, 17-4, $694

9^th: Dan Morehead, Paducah, Ky., five bass, 17-0, $528

10^th: Billy Schroeder, Paducah, Ky., five bass, 16-11, $462

Complete results can be found at FLWFishing.com.

Boggs’ largest bass weighed 7 pounds, 1 ounce and was the heaviest caught in the Boater Division. The catch also earned him the day’s Boater Big Bass award of $535.

Jim Pierce of Medon, Tennessee, won the Co-angler Division and $2,081 Saturday after catching a five-bass limit weighing 16 pounds, 2 ounces.

The top 10 co-anglers were:

1^st: Jim Pierce, Medon, Tenn., five bass, 16-2, $2,081

2^nd: Jacob Greco, Edwardsville, Ill., four bass, 15-7, $991

3^rd: Jim Dietel, Loami, Ill., five bass, 13-1, $662

4^th: Daniel Pope Jr., Cincinnati, Ohio, five bass, 12-14, $462

5^th: Travis Williams, Jackson, Mo., five bass, 12-13, $396

6^th: Michael Swift, Alma, Ill., five bass, 12-10, $363

7^th: Joseph Gulash, Edwardsville, Ill., four bass, 12-6, $330

8^th: Kevin Lamb, Gallatin, Tenn., five bass, 12-4, $297

9^th: Trevor Gooch, Yuma, Tenn., four bass, 11-13, $314

10^th: Howard Dowdy, Livingston, Tenn., four bass, 11-10, $231

Scott Sims of Morgantown, Indiana, caught the largest bass in the Co-angler Division – a fish weighing 5 pounds, 9 ounces – and earned the day’s Co-angler Big Bass award of $267.

For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the BFL on Facebook at Facebook.com/FLWFishing and on Twitter at Twitter.com/FLWFishing.

by AnglersChannel

HODGINS WINS T-H MARINE FLW BFL MICHIGAN DIVISION EVENT ON LAKE ST. CLAIR

Texas’ Cosculluela Takes Co-angler Title

HARRISON TOWNSHIP, Mich. (July 17, 2017) – Erick Hodgins of Amherstburg, Ontario, Canada, caught five bass weighing 23 pounds, 11 ounces, Saturday to win the T-H Marine FLW Bass Fishing League (BFL) Michigan Division tournament on Lake St. Clair. Hodgins earned $4,342 for his efforts.

Hodgins said he spent the tournament targeting bass on the Canadian side of the border. He said his two key areas were weed beds in 18 to 20 feet of water.

“I went to my best area first, but went two hours without a bite,” said Hodgins, who was fishing in his first career BFL tournament. “I moved to my second spot and was able to put together my first limit. I had about 19 pounds there, but I still wanted to get back to the first area. I knew that’s where the bigger fish would be.”

Hodgins said once weather conditions improved, he returned to his first area and culled most of his limit.

“The sun came out and there was just a little ripple on top of the water, which was perfect,” said Hodgins. “I took advantage of my (Minn Kota) Ultrex’s spot-lock feature and picked the weed bed apart.”

Hodgins said he primarily used green pumpkin- or watermelon-colored tubes by Mike’s Rx Baits and Xtreme Bass Tackle. He also threw a Baby Bass-colored Yamamoto Shad Shape Worm on a drop-shot rig.

“I used a really long fluorocarbon leader which I think works well for clear water,” said Hodgins. “I think that’s what made the difference for me. It was a good day out there, that’s for sure.”

The top 10 boaters finished the tournament in:

1^st: Erick Hodgins, Amherstburg, Ontario, Canada, five bass, 23-11, $4,342

2^nd: Michael Rhodes, Paw Paw, Mich., five bass, 22-1, $1,921

3^rd: Jonathon Dewey, Port Huron, Mich., five bass, 21-12, $1,282

4^th: Mark Modrak, China Township, Mich., five bass, 21-3, $996

5^th: Brent Dunmyer, Weston, Ohio, five bass, 20-13, $768

6^th: Kyle Greene, Ortonville, Mich., five bass, 20-12, $704

7^th: Jesse Schwark, Athens, Mich., five bass, 20-8, $640

8^th: John Lovin, Fayetteville, Ohio, five bass, 20-2, $576

9^th: John Scalf, Goshen, Ohio, five bass, 20-0, $512

10^th: Zach Maisch, Lima, Ohio, five bass, 19-13, $448

Complete results can be found at FLWFishing.com.

Tim Gillies of Union City, Michigan, caught a 5-pound, 6-ounce bass – the heaviest of the event in the Boater Division – and earned the day’s Boater Big Bass award of $510.

Hugh Cosculluela of The Woodlands, Texas, won the Co-angler Division and $1,921 Saturday after catching five bass weighing 22 pounds even.

The top 10 co-anglers were:

1^st: Hugh Cosculluela, The Woodlands, Texas, five bass, 22-0, $1,921

2^nd: Matt Vermilyea, Perrysburg, Ohio, five bass, 21-10, $960

3^rd: Michelle Jalaba, Birmingham, Mich., five bass, 21-4, $741

4^th: Josh Deyonker, Livonia, Mich., five bass, 20-12, $703

5^th: Robert Busby, Fenton, Mich., five bass, 19-11, $384

6^th: Daniel Holland, Beverly Hills, Mich., five bass, 19-2, $352

7^th: Philip Borsa, Redford, Mich., five bass, 18-14, $320

8^th: Curtis Hall II, Battle Creek, Mich., five bass, 18-5, $288

9^th: Tate Compton, Hoopeston, Ill., five bass, 17-15, $256

10^th: Mike Williams, Blanchester, Ohio, five bass, 17-13, $224

Deyonker caught the largest bass in the Co-angler Division – a fish weighing 6 pounds, 3 ounces – and earned the day’s Co-angler Big Bass award of $255.

For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the BFL on Facebook at Facebook.com/FLWFishing and on Twitter at Twitter.com/FLWFishing.

by AnglersChannel

PENNSYLVANIA’S BUCK WINS T-H MARINE FLW BFL NORTHEAST DIVISION TOURNAMENT ON ONEIDA LAKE

Dubernas Earns Co-angler Title

BREWERTON, N.Y. (July 17, 2017) – Pro Grae Buck of Harleysville, Pennsylvania, caught a five-bass limit weighing 18 pounds even Saturday to win the T-H Marine FLW Bass Fishing League (BFL) Northeast Division tournament on Oneida Lake. For his win, Buck pocketed $5,303.

“I fished in 9 to 12 feet of water around grass and rock that were mixed together,” said Buck, an FLW Tour rookie who logged his third career-victory in BFL competition. “I rotated through seven areas and hit each one twice, focusing on individual fish that were cruising by themselves. Other anglers were catching them from schools, but I couldn’t get them going.”

Buck said he utilized a Yamamoto Shad Shape Worm on a drop-shot rig as his key bait. He preferred 7.3-pound test Seaguar Finesse Fluorocarbon line because it eliminated some of the twisting that comes with fishing a drop-shot rig.

“I did my best to make contact with the rock between the grass patches,” said Buck. “I was dragging the rig more than anything. If you weren’t dragging it, you weren’t getting bit. I’m pretty sure they were feeding on perch down there.

“I caught my heaviest fish with 20 minutes left in the day,” Buck went on to say. “It culled out a 2½-pounder, so it basically won me the tournament.”

The top 10 boaters finished the tournament in:

1^st: Grae Buck, Harleysville, Pa., five bass, 18-0, $5,303

2^nd: Kevin Park, Waymart, Pa., five bass, 17-9, $2,232

3^rd: Ian Renfrew, Phoenix, N.Y., five bass, 17-6, $1,589

4^th: Tyler Sheppard, Hermitage, Pa., five bass, 16-6, $1,041

5^th: Tyler Morgan, Pine Grove, Pa., five bass, 16-3, $893

6^th: Paul Kimball, Glastonbury, Conn., five bass, 16-1, $818

7^th: Brandon Esterly, Forest, Va., five bass, 15-15, $744

8^th: Jeremy Douglas, Rochester, N.Y., five bass, 15-10, $669

9^th: Jason Shipton, Muncy, Pa., five bass, 15-8, $595

10^th: Shaun Kucharski, Pittston, Pa., five bass, 15-5, $521

Complete results can be found at FLWFishing.com.

Buck’s 4-pound, 11-ounce fish was the heaviest of the event in the Boater Division, and also earned him the day’s Boater Big Bass award of $640.

Jason Dubernas of Old Forge, Pennsylvania, won the Co-angler Division and $2,232 Saturday after catching five bass weighing 18 pounds, 6 ounces.

The top 10 co-anglers were:

1^st: Jason Dubernas, Old Forge, Pa., five bass, 18-6, $2,232

2^nd: Henry McKee, Haddon Heights, N.J., five bass, 16-1, $1,116

3^rd: Matt Maze, Johnsonburg, Pa., five bass, 14-5, $743

4^th: Robby Zellers, Philadelphia, Pa., five bass, 13-11, $521

5^th: William Allie, Wynantskill, N.Y., five bass, 13-10, $446

6^th: Roy Bilby, Richmondville, N.Y., five bass, 13-8, $409

7^th: Peter Longo, Neptune, N.J., five bass, 13-5, $372

8^th: Thomas Dellinger, Myerstown, Pa., five bass, 13-2, $335

9^th: Shawn Flynn, Dexter, N.Y., five bass, 12-15, $298

10^th: Bryan Folino, Cheshire, Mass., four bass, 12-11, $460

Rick Hahn of Fulton, New York, caught the largest bass in the Co-angler Division – a fish weighing 4 pounds, 8 ounces – and earned the day’s Co-angler Big Bass award of $320.

The top 45 boaters and co-anglers in the region based on point standings, along with the five winners in each qualifying event, will be entered in the Oct. 12-14 BFL Regional Championship on the James River in Williamsburg, Virginia. Boaters will compete for a top award of a Ranger Z518C with a 200-horsepower Evinrude outboard and $20,000, while co-anglers will fish for a new Ranger Z518C with a 200-horsepower Evinrude outboard.

For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the BFL on Facebook at Facebook.com/FLWFishing and on Twitter at Twitter.com/FLWFishing.

by AnglersChannel

Jordan Lee on Sapphire, Diamonds, and Football Jigs

Alan McGuckin - Special to Anglerschannel.com

If life’s goodness were measured in pounds and ounces right now for young Bassmaster Classic Champion Jordan Lee, it’d be the equivalent of a monstrous 27-pound 4-ounce limit of bass.

Since his dramatic come-from-behind Classic win on Lake Conroe, he threatened to win Bassmaster Toyota Texas Fest last month, where he eventually finished 4th.

Away from the water, Jordan got engaged to his sweetheart of three years, Kristen, launched his own signature series Classic-winning football jig at ICAST, and discovered his new favorite fishing reel.

Diamond Rings

No surprise, Jordan first became smitten with Kristen at his first-ever Bassmaster Southern Open on Lake Toho, Florida where she was working the tournament registration as a marketing assistant at Power-Pole.

After a sweet three-year relationship that oozes cuteness each time they’re seen together, Jordan bought his bride-to-be a beautiful pear-shaped diamond engagement ring at Ed White Jewelers in his hometown of Cullman, AL.

“We actually looked a rings a year ago, but I’m proud to say I never pressured him to get married,” says Kristen. “I wanted him to propose when he was truly ready, not because so many other people were telling him he should, or asking us when we would get married.”

Lee was logical in his approach to making a lifetime commitment, often assuring Kristen he loved her, but wanting to make sure he was financially secure and standing on stable ground in the fishing industry before he asked her to be his wife.

His Bassmaster Classic win in March obviously brought the career stability the humble 25-year-old desired.

So on a trip home to North Georgia to see Kristen’s parents, that included a fishing trip to Lake Lanier of course, the two planned a date to a local vineyard where Jordan popped the question and presented the gorgeous diamond ring.

Sapphire Washers

Diamonds are not only a girl’s best friend, but are actually super tough, and at the top of the hardness scale, just above sapphire for natural gems and materials. And fresh off diamond shopping, Lee discovered a sapphire jeweled spool tension washer inside his favorite new fishing reel at ICAST.

The new $199 Quantum Tour S3 features a super-hard sapphire plated washer inside the spool tension knob, creates a smoother, harder surface for the spool shaft to turn against. That leads to much improved longevity in the reel Lee couldn’t keep his hands off during his time in the Quantum booth at ICAST.

Football Jigs

When not in the Quantum booth, Jordan and Kristen could often be found at the Strike King booth proudly sharing the new “J Lee Comeback Jig” with media and retail dealers.

“It’s made of round, old skool, living rubber strands as opposed to the silicone strands that most jigs are made of,” explains Lee.

“Living rubber has more action than silicone, even when the jig is sitting still on the bottom of the lake, and I think that played a big role in getting so many quality bites that final day on Lake Conroe,” he says.

“Living rubber just ‘breathes’ better, and big fish can’t stand not to bite it,” believes Lee. “This is a structure jig for casting in 8 to 30 feet of water, and dragging slowly across the bottom. We’re making it in 1/2, ¾ and 1-ounce.”

When asked to choose just two favorite colors of the new jig, he chose Peanut butter and jelly, and plain ‘ol brown. He ties the jig to 15-pound fluorocarbon, and fishes it on a 7.3:1 Quantum Tour S3 for plenty of speedy line pickup when a bass bites in deep water.

Sapphire reel parts, diamond rings, and football jigs. Indeed, life is shining right now for Jordan Lee.

by AnglersChannel

T-H Marine Debuts New Conservation Cull System to its Line-up!

by AnglersChannel

TJ Svec Wins Third ABA Division Victory on Lake Gaston with Over 14 pounds!

On a hot windless day on Lake Gaston, most of the field found it difficult to come up with a five bass limit of fish. TJ Svec, however seized the opportunity to take his third division victory of the season by bringing in five bass that weighed in at 14.11 pounds. He anchored his catch with the big fish of the event at 5.06 pounds. He has been rolling through the season with three Division 13 victories and one division 17 win, all on different bodies of water.

Weights dropped off drastically with Tommy Marrow taking 2nd place with 12.82 pounds and Michael Sims coming in third with 7.60 pounds.

Rounding out the top 5 were Randy Ruffin at 7.40 pounds and Ken Mason with 6.68 pounds.

The Virginia division will next meet on Kerr Lake going out of Rudds Creek on 5 Aug.
For more information contact American Bass Anglers at 256-232-0406 or local Director Gary Conner at 757-293-8651

These anglers are earning valuable points toward the divisional angler of the year title. The points champion from each division will compete in the annual Ram American Bass Anglers AFT Angler of the Year Final Round at the Ram American Fishing Tour National Championship.

The Ram American Fishing Tour offers low cost, close to home bass tournaments that are designed for the weekend angler. All ABA anglers fish for money and points. The points advance the angler to their divisional championship and the top 500 anglers in the US are invited to the Ram American Fishing Tour National Championship. For more information on American Bass Anglers please visit www.americanbassanglers.com or call (256)232-0406.

American Bass Anglers, Inc. is supported by Ram Trucks, Triton Boats, Mercury Outboards, Carlisle Tires, GEICO, Berkley, Abu Garcia, T-H Marine, Livingston Lures, Best Western Hotels, Maui Jim, Power Pole, LiT Coolers, Simms, Garmin, and Divide-It. American Bass Anglers, Inc. can be contacted at (256) 232-0406 or by visiting americanbassanglers.com

by AnglersChannel

YETI FLW COLLEGE FISHING NORTHERN CONFERENCE EVENT SET FOR CHAUTAUQUA LAKE

BEMUS POINT, N.Y. (July 11, 2017) – YETI FLW College Fishing is headed to Chautauqua Lake July 22 for the second of three regular-season stops in the Northern Conference. The tournament, presented by Bass Pro Shops, will feature college fishing clubs casting for $2,000 and an invitation to compete in the 2018 College Fishing National Championship.

“I think it’s going to take 16 or 17 pounds to win this event,” said Derek Horner, a Penn State University angler who has finished in the top five – including a win last year – in each of the last two FLW College Fishing visits to Chautauqua Lake. “It’s taken a little less to win on Chautauqua Lake in recent tournaments, but I think some teams are really going to catch them this year.”

Horner said he expects there to be three dominant patterns in play during this tournament.

“The first thing that comes to mind for Chautauqua Lake is fishing docks,” said Horner. “I think we’ll see a lot of teams picking them apart with a Texas-rigged worm or a jig with a craw trailer. I also see a lot of anglers targeting staging bass along grass lines with ChatterBaits and spinnerbaits. If all else fails, you can’t go wrong with throwing a frog near lily pads.”

Horner said that the algae bloom may also dictate where anglers choose to fish.

“This time of year, bass tend to congregate where algae is thickest,” said Horner. “On the south end of the lake it tends to be thicker, but if there’s a strong south wind competitors will have to stay up north where the water is deeper. Those teams will likely focus on smallmouth that are staging near submerged rocks.”

Competitors will take off from Long Point State Park, located at 4459 Route 430 in Bemus Point, at 6:30 a.m. EDT Saturday. Weigh-in will be held at the park beginning at 2:30 p.m. Takeoff and weigh-in are free and open to the public.

Schools are allowed to register up until the morning of the tournament. Entries may be made either by phone or at CollegeFishing.com.

Schools currently registered to compete in the Chautauqua Lake tournament, which is hosted by the Chautauqua County Visitors Bureau, include:

Bowling Green State University – Corey Miller, Perrysburg, Ohio, and Jason Bailey, Port Clinton, Ohio

Christopher Newport University – Connor Fenwick, Culpeper, Va., and Willson Baxley, Newport News, Va.

Fairmont State University – Jacob Smith, Martinsburg, W. Va., and Corey Straight, Barrackville, W. Va.

James Madison University – Blake Miles, Chesterfield, Va., and Jack Goodwyn, Powhatan, Va.

James Madison University – Daniel Jenkins, Midlothian, Va., and Xander Bradley, Vienna, Va.

Kent State University – Jordan Spiess, Bryan, Ohio, and Zachary Asher, Sunbury, Ohio

Kent State University – Tanner Ward, Coshocton, Ohio, and Alec Gabriel, New Philadelphia, Ohio

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania – Joe Tini, Archibald, Pa., and Corey Bechtel, Allentown, Pa.

Liberty University – Hunter Moore, Lynchburg, Va., and Zachary Phillips, New Hartford, Conn.

Mansfield University – Christopher Tanczos, Mansfield, Pa., and Logan Murray, Easton, Pa.

Mansfield University – Nicholas Hoffman, Dallastown, Pa., and James Grassi, Saxonburg, Pa.

Paul Smith's College – Jon Herrman, Oneida, N.Y., and Taylor West, Lakewood, N.Y.

Pennsylvania State University – Chris Trianosky, Phoenixville, Pa., and Lou Mocniak, Washington, Pa.

Pennsylvania State University – David Contrael, Kittanning, Pa., and Lance Brosious, Sunbury, Pa.

Pennsylvania State University – Derek Horner, State College, Pa., and Maurice Hudson Jr., Broomall, Pa.

Pennsylvania State University – Tom Oranzi, West Grove, Pa., and Stephen Jesso, Plymouth, Pa.

Pennsylvania State University-Harrisburg – Ryan Fox, Thornhurst, Pa., and Chad Burkholder, Palmyra, Pa.

Radford University – Joshua Greenberg, Montpelier, Va., and Adam Carter, Mechanicsville, Va.

Slippery Rock University – Cody Neal, Evans City, Pa., and Kyle Brown, Wexford, Pa.

Slippery Rock University – Evan Kretz, Allison Park, Pa., and Samuel Jenesky, Pittsburgh, Pa.

Slippery Rock University – Garrett Godlewski, Imperial, Pa., and Nathan Quince, Pittsburgh, Pa.

Slippery Rock University – Jason Frontino and Ryan Kozlowski, both of Cranberry Township, Pa.

State University of New York-Buffalo – Austin Ocwieja, Webster, Nev., and Daniel Peltier, North Tonawanda, N.Y.

University of Delaware – Brennan Chuprinko, Flanders, N.J., and Daniel Lopez, Cornwall-on-Hudson, N.Y.

University of Maine – Brian Volkernick, Dixfield, Maine, and Cody Rubner, Acton, Mass.

University of Southern Maine – Nick Deering and Ian Westphal, both of Portland, Maine

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University – Ethan Stone, Charlottesville, Va., and Junior Roberts, Ringgold, Va.

West Chester University of Pennsylvania – Tyler Canada, West Chester, Pa., and Thomas Arena, Carlisle, Pa.

Youngstown State University – Jalen Rich, Campbell, Ohio, and Stan Miketa, New Middletown, Ohio

FLW College Fishing teams compete in three regular-season qualifying tournaments in one of five conferences – Central, Northern, Southern, Southeastern and Western. The top ten teams from each division’s three regular-season tournaments and the top 20 teams from the annual FLW College Fishing Open will advance to the 2018 FLW College Fishing National Championship. Additional teams will qualify for the National Championship if the field size in regular-season events exceeds 100 boats.

College Fishing is free to enter. All participants must be registered, full-time students at a college, university or community college and members of a college fishing club that is recognized by their school.

For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow College Fishing on Facebook at Facebook.com/FLWFishing and on Twitter at Twitter.com/FLWFishing. Visit FLWFishing.com to sign up or to start a club at your school.

by AnglersChannel

Vegan Harasses Fishermen, Throws Back Fish - What Would You Do?

Animal rights activists have a well-deserved reputation for taking things too far. Lack of rationale is not reserved for teenage girls. Apparently, it is becoming fashionable for grown men to act as if they have no common sense and no restraint.

And to even use small children as pawns in their attacks on a wholesome pastime.

Consider the case two days ago of a militant vegan who harassed two men while they fished in a public park on Crescent Lake in St Petersburg, Fla.

The perpetrator filmed his own antics. The video shows his small child approach the men as a fresh-caught tilapia flops on the ground. The child asks the men to stop fishing because fish feel pain.

When the men quietly continue about their business, the role model father steps in and tries his best to escalate the situation into a full-blown conflict. He eventually steals their fish and throws it back into the lake.

Keeping a cool head, one of the anglers makes a phone call, presumably to the authorities while most viewers want to step into the screen and deck the antagonistic, holier than thou attention seeker who repeatedly informs us that he eats no meat products what so ever.

Question is, what should be done about this problem - not just this specific incident, but the actions of a very vocal, very, very small minority of folks who would not only choose to not fish or hunt but would also choose for YOU not to do so?

There are laws in Florida against hunter harassment and they convey to fishermen as well. But we see how much good that did our fishing friends in this case. Their trip was already ruined. What further steps, if any should we take? What happens when they take to the water to mess with boating anglers? What if they start disrupting bass tournaments? Any pertinent laws need to have enough teeth to stop this nonsense cold. And they must be fully enforced before it will do any good.

Watch for yourself:

https://youtu.be/SFTeq-MAwMI

by AnglersChannel

Elite Series ‘No Info’ Rule Too Vague Say Some Pros

Vance McCullough

It’s ICAST week in Orlando. That means the entire fishing world is hanging out, talking. There’s a lot of positive energy. But there’s also the occasional blurb of honesty.

I’ve personally overheard two different conversations in which anglers (who will remain unnamed) expressed dismay over the newest incarnation of the B.A.S.S. rule that prohibits Elite Series anglers from getting help or information. According to an email sent to the anglers from B.A.S.S. on Thursday, anglers may not solicit or collect waypoints from others. Specifics appear to be lacking. “So, somebody can tell me I should flip docks, as long as they don’t give me a waypoint?” questioned one pro.

Another wondered how to define someone who has ‘significant knowledge’ of the lake being fished.

The ripple effect is far-reaching.

For instance, one prominent lure company will be forced to cancel or move its annual writers conference from Kentucky Lake because the Elite Series will stop there next year. The conference would be held in October – many months before the tourney takes place, but still out of bounds according to the rule.

Then again, if none of the writers have ‘extensive knowledge’ of Kentucky Lake, is it legal for Elite Series pros to take them out on the lake?

Therein lies the problem for some – the rule appears to lack specificity.

Stay tuned as we learn more.

by AnglersChannel

FLW ANNOUNCES 2018 FLW TOUR SCHEDULE

ORLANDO, Fla. (July 13, 2017) – Fishing League Worldwide (FLW) announced the 2018 FLW Tour regular-season schedule Thursday in a live press event held at the International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades (ICAST). The 2018 season will feature seven tournaments, broadcast in high-definition (HD) on NBC Sports Network, the Pursuit Channel and the World Fishing Network, which will showcase the best bass anglers in the world competing in the most competitive circuit in the sport.

2018 FLW Tour Regular-Season Schedule:

January 25-28 Lake Okeechobee Clewiston, Fla.

Hosted by Roland & Mary Ann Martin’s Resort and Marina

February 22-25 Harris Chain of Lakes Leesburg, Fla.

Hosted by Lake County, Florida

March 8-11 Lake Lanier Gainesville, Ga.

Hosted by the Gainesville Convention & Visitor’s Bureau

April 12-15 Lake Cumberland Burnside, Ky.

Hosted by the Somerset Tourist and Convention Commission

April 26-29 Lewis Smith Lake Jasper, Ala.

Hosted by the Walker County Chamber of Commerce

May 17-20 Kentucky Lake Gilbertsville, Ky.

Hosted by the Kentucky Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau

June 28-July 1 Lake St. Clair Detroit, Mich.

Hosted by the Detroit Sports Commission, Macomb County, the Huron-Clinton Metroparks Authority and the Sterling Heights Regional Chamber of Commerce

The full schedule and expected patterns/details for each fishery can be found at FLWFishing.com.

In addition to the $125,000 paycheck that is awarded to FLW Tour winners, FLW will pay out at least $10,000 to pros down to 50^th place along with one additional payout of $4,000 per boat over a 160-boat field.

In FLW Tour competition anglers are vying for valuable points in hopes of qualifying for the 2018 Forrest Wood Cup, the world championship of bass fishing. The date and location for the 2018 Forrest Wood Cup will be unveiled on-stage at the 2017 Forrest Wood Cup on Lake Murray in Columbia, South Carolina.

For details and updated information visit FLWFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow us on Facebook at Facebook.com/FLWFishing and on Twitter at Twitter.com/FLWFishing.

by AnglersChannel

Strike King Suppa Fry!

This Isn’t Your Ordinary Fry, It’s SUPA!

Collierville, Tenn. (June 1, 2017) – One of the things that has made Strike King successful for over 50 years is that we are owned and run by anglers. We know what it takes to make a bait that functions and performs the way anglers expect. We also know that our customers and our pro staff are made up of some of the most discriminating anglers on earth. We count on that when it comes to designing our products. What do real fishermen want and need to do their job? That question is at the foundation of every Strike King lure. That question can be answered by every Strike King Lure as well. It certainly applies to the all-new KVD Supa Fry.

“Being competitive in the world of bass fishing means always evolving. It means being versatile enough to change things up and have confidence that you can win. The new KVD Supa Fry is one of those baits that allows me to do that. It is the kind of bait that I expect to get bit on. Even when it’s tough and bites are hard to get” says 15-time Bassmaster Classic Qualifier Todd Faircloth. “The Supa Fry is a finesse-style bait that is a game changer. The super-soft plastic and the awesome OPT colors combined with the perfect “floating” action get fish to bite. It will be hard to beat on a Carolina-Rig”.

The 4.5” KVD Supa Fry comes in 17 of our signature Open Pour Technology (OPT) colors. It will be found at better fishing retailers everywhere.

by AnglersChannel

Minn Kota® Debuts New Portable Digital Battery Chargers at ICAST

New Minn Kota Portable Digital Chargers feature microprocessor
technology to optimize charging and extend battery life

RACINE, Wis., July 12, 2017 – Getting the most from expensive marine batteries requires optimal charging, which is something Minn Kota® has perfected for years with their digital on-board charging technology. Now that digital advantage is available in two convenient, portable, single-bank battery chargers.

The new portable digital chargers have a built-in digital microprocessor that is the “brain” behind their performance. Among other things, the microprocessor facilitates automatic temperature compensation. High and low outside temperatures can greatly affect a battery’s ability to take a charge, often resulting in under- or over-charging which can damage expensive marine batteries. Minn Kota’s Portable Digital Chargers sense the outside temperature and automatically adjust the charge profile. This self-regulation ensures a faster, more precise charge every time. The benefits to anglers are extended battery life, maximum power for cranking and improved cycle life for marine electronics.

Minn Kota Portable Digital Chargers also recognize when the battery has achieved full power, and shut off automatically when the charge is complete. The new models deliver 5 or 10 AMPS of total output and work perfectly on flooded/wet-cell, maintenance-free, and AGM batteries. Anglers will appreciate the portable chargers’ light weight, generous carry handle and ease-of-use on all their on-the-go fishing adventures.

The 5 AMP MK-105PD will retail for $59.99 and the 10 AMP MK-110PD will retail for $84.99. For more information visit MinnKotaMotors.com.

by AnglersChannel

Mossy Oak Becomes The Official Pattern Of B.A.S.S.

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Mossy Oak and B.A.S.S. have formed a partnership, which names Mossy Oak as the Official Pattern of B.A.S.S. The marriage of the fishing and hunting worlds through these two well-known outdoor brands comes in conjunction with the launch of Mossy Oak Elements, a line of patterns that offers designs specific to the angling community as well as hunters.

“As Mossy Oak expands into the fishing market with the launch of our new fishing lifestyle pattern, Elements, we knew we had to partner with a leader in that industry. B.A.S.S. was top of mind,” said Chris Paradise, Chief Sales Officer for Mossy Oak. “Bass fishing is immensely popular and B.A.S.S. is the clear leader in that space with a massive reach. Combining two iconic brands, the best lifestyle pattern in Mossy Oak Elements and a long list of leading manufactures, we are going to make waves in the outdoor industry.”

Bruce Akin, B.A.S.S. CEO, applauded Mossy Oak’s entry into the bass fishing arena.

“Bass fishing is a large and lucrative market, and we are excited about helping Mossy Oak reach that market,” Akin said. “Our 500,000 B.A.S.S. members and the 4.4 million readers of BassmasterMagazine are loyal to companies that invest in the sport. They appreciate innovative and quality products, and I know they will be eager to try out the new Elements pattern.”

To learn more about Mossy Oak Elements, visit www.mossyoak.com. For pattern licensing information, visit www.why.mossyoak.com.

About Haas Outdoors Inc.
Haas Outdoors Inc. is headquartered in West Point, Miss., was established in 1986 and is home of Mossy Oak. Celebrating 30 years in 2016, Mossy Oak is a leading outdoors lifestyle brand that specializes in developing and marketing modern camouflage designs for hunters and outdoors enthusiasts. The Mossy Oak Brand and patterns can be found on a multitude of products worldwide. Haas Outdoors Inc. is the parent company of Mossy Oak, BioLogic, Mossy Oak Productions, MOOSE Media, Nativ Nurseries, Nativ Living, GameKeepers, GameKeepers Kennels and Mossy Oak Properties. Mossy Oak is the official camouflage of the National Wild Turkey Federation and Ducks Unlimited. Follow Mossy Oak on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google+, Pinterest and YouTube.

About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S. is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the 500,000-member organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), television show (The Bassmasters on ESPN2), radio show (Bassmaster Radio), social media programs and events. For more than 45 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.

The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Bassmaster Elite Series, Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Open Series, Academy Sports + Outdoors B.A.S.S. Nation presented by Magellan, Carhartt Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Costa Bassmaster High School Series presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods, Toyota Bonus Bucks Bassmaster Team Championship and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the GEICO Bassmaster Classic presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods.

by AnglersChannel

Pelican Coolers New Realtree Pattern& Soft Side Kick Butt Coolers!!!

by AnglersChannel

Seaguar - Winners Since Day One

New York, NY (July 12, 2017) – At no time will the words “nothing to see here; go on about your business” have any less meaning then when strolling by booth #986 at ICAST 2017.

The significance of that curtained cubical within the walls of the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, July 12 through 14, 2017? That’s where the fine folks at Seaguar — the brand all other lines strive to be — will be presenting the very wares that have made their name synonymous with “the highest-quality fishing lines ever made”.

If you’re familiar with Seaguar, then you know the alternative expression isn’t anything new. They were the first to bring fluorocarbon line to angler’s reels, back in 1971. And since then, names like Flippin’ Fluoro, Tatsu, AbrazX and InvizX, as well a plethora of other superior fluoro main lines and leaders have been created since the original spool of Red Label hit the market place.

What many may not realize is Seaguar takes just as much pride in producing the strongest, most fishable monofilament and braided lines, as well. Stop by and chat about Flippin’ Braid, Smackdown and Threadlock braids. After that, check out Senshi and Rippin’ Premium Monofilament. You’ll be impressed with every line Seaguar constructs.

Something else to tête-à-tête about? How ‘bout the fact that Seaguar is still the only manufacturer to make their own fluorocarbon from beginning to end. No, really… from the first substance to the final stage, Seaguar is the one.
“There’s so much Seaguar does differently that helps our products perform better on the water,” says Brian Evans, assistant marketing manager for Seaguar.

by AnglersChannel

New Storm and Rapala Products with Randall Tharp

by AnglersChannel

Trapper Tackle - Trapper Treble

by AnglersChannel

St. Croix Rods Achieving Legend Status

LEGEND® X
FRS, IPC, ART, TET, USA

St. Croix's all-new freshwater series is packed with proprietary technologies and destined to reset the benchmark in performance split-grip rods. Legend X combines cutting edge design with impeccable craftsmanship providing anglers the on-the-water advantage.

$390-$420

ICAST NPS Category- Freshwater Rods

Integrated Poly Curve® (IPC®) tooling technology.
Taper Enhancement Technology (TET) blank design provides curved patterns for improved action with increased sensitivity.
Advanced Reinforcing Technology™ (ART™).
Super high-modulus SCVI graphite with FRS in lower section for maximum power and strength with reduced weight.
High-modulus/high-strain SCV graphite with FRS and carbon-matte scrim for unparalleled strength, durability and sensitivity.
Fuji® Torzite® tangle-free guides with titanium frames for unrivalled, 100% corrosion-proof performance.
Fuji® TVS blank-touch reel seat with built-in hood on spinning rods.
Fuji® PTS blank-touch reel seat with built-in hood on casting rods.
Anodized, machined-aluminum wind check and trim pieces.
Split-grip/super-grade cork handle.
Kigan titanium hook-keeper.
Two coats of Flex-Coat slow cure finish.
Includes protective rod sack.
15-year transferable warranty backed by St. Croix Superstar Service.

Designed and handcrafted in Park Falls, U.S.A.

LEGEND TOURNAMENT® INSHORE
FRS, IPC, ART, USA

All-new for 2018, the Legend Tournament Inshore series blends St. Croix design and technologies with top-grade, saltwater worthy components for hyper-performance.

$280 - $340

ICAST NPS Category- Saltwater Rods

Integrated Poly Curve® (IPC®) tooling technology.
Advanced Reinforcing Technology™ (ART™).
High-modulus/high-strain SCIV graphite with FRS for unparalleled strength and durability.
Kigan Master Hand Zero Tangle guides with slim, strong aluminum-oxide rings and titanium frames for the ultimate protection from saltwater corrosion.
Fuji® TVS blank-touch reel seat with built-in hood on spinning rods.
Fuji® PTS blank-touch reel seat with built-in hood on casting rods.
Super-grade cork handle.
Kigan titanium hook-keeper.
Corrosion-proof wind check.
Two coats of Flex-Coat slow cure finish.
15-year transferable warranty backed by St. Croix Superstar Service.
Designed and handcrafted in Park Falls, U.S.A.

by AnglersChannel

LIVETARGET New Concept and Lure Introduction, BaitBall Spinner Rig:

LIVETARGET once again breaks tradition with an innovative lure design with the presentation and announcement of the BaitBall Spinner Rig. This is an impressive new lure format that combines the premier design skills at LIVETARGET with the calculated use of nature’s own habitat rules, creating a true multi-dimensional lure offering. The fish definitely haven’t seen this before!

The BaitBall Spinner Rig is a multi-wire lure that incorporates “teaser” fish on three arms, a single spin blade for flash in the center, and a specially designed “target” fish armed with a single, sturdy black nickel hook. Think spinnerbait, yet better. Think Alabama Rig, but refined and castable. Think about penetrating dense hard cover like brush piles and blow-downs. Think about improving some of your all-time favorite lures and incorporating them into one design. And here is another huge plus to the Spinner Rig design: anglers can interchange both the “teaser” fish and the “target” fish onto the frame via a unique Interchange System which will allow colors and sizes of the replacements to be easily swapped on the water by anglers!

The action of the BaitBall Spinner Rig is intended to mimic a small cluster of fleeing baitfish. The combined action of the teaser bodies’ flicker, the flash of the spinner blade, the roll of the full rig, and the tuned vibration of the target fish make this truly a unique combination of fish attracting actions. The “target” fish are positioned without hooks and the strategic wire-arm placement creates unmatched ability to retrieve this design through heavy hard cover such as brush piles, deep timber, docks, blow-downs, rip-rap, etc. With frame sizes from ¼ ounce up to ¾ ounce, the Spinner Rig casts easily and can be fished for extended periods with minimal effort.

Baitball Spinner Rigs will be sold in three frame sizes (small, medium, large), with two weight options for each frame proportionally sized. All eight colors will be offered in each frame and weight.

The Interchange System was created to allow anglers the option to quickly change the color combinations to adjust to on the water lighting and water color conditions. Additionally, the Interchange System offers a cost effective way for anglers to refresh their lure with the soft-plastic portions as they become fatigued from fish catches and use. Interchange System components will be delivered in packages of three Teaser Fish and two Target Fish per package, and replacements will be sold alongside Spinner Rigs at retailers.

Grant Koppers, founder and President of LIVETARGET commented on the design work and uniqueness found in this innovative lure: “This is one of the most innovative and unique products we have ever designed. In fact, we’ve been working on this concept for several years. Every variable to make this lure function and trigger strikes has been meticulously considered. The flash and vibration is unlike any lure ever created”

The BaitBall Spinner Rig will become available to retailers in Q4 2017, and will be retail packaged as a single lure with a MSRP of $13.49 - $15.49 based on model size. Interchange System replacement units will have a MSRP of $7.99 for all sizes and combinations.

by AnglersChannel

The All-New Minn Kota® Talon® Offers More Control Options, Deeper Anchoring and Added Versatility

Minn Kota launches the only shallow-water anchor that gives anglers control from anywhere in the boat, plus unlocks more water for precise, anchored fishing with a new 15-foot version

RACINE, Wis., July 11, 2017 – Using a Minn Kota® Talon® for precise boat control has never been easier. In fact, there are now five ways for anglers to activate the Talon from anywhere in the boat. The newest way utilizes Bluetooth® communication to pair the Talon with Humminbird® units on the boat for total boat control on one console (including the ability to pair Humminbird units with select Minn Kota trolling motors). Anglers can also engage the anchor using a foot switch, with a wireless remote (every Talon comes standard with two), via the new Talon smartphone app, and with the Talon’s built-in control panel.

According to Minn Kota Brand Manager Brad Henry, “When it’s time to Talon down we give anglers options so they can lock on a spot no matter where they are in the boat or their style of fishing.”

Another major advancement is the introduction of Minn Kota’s new 15-foot Talon, the deepest shallow-water anchor ever made. It allows anglers to lock down on more spots to effectively unlock more water.

Hall of Fame angler Al Lindner explains how Talon’s depth delivers results for his multi-species pursuits. “I use it for catfish in rivers, for crappies in the spring, naturally for bass, and in more cases than I ever thought - for walleyes. Yeah, you heard me right, walleyes.”

Also new for 2017 is a clever work light built into the Talon top cap. When fishing in dark conditions, the work light illuminates the entire back deck of the boat to help anglers when rigging and landing fish at night. It has three brightness settings and white or blue LED light options for ideal illumination.

Talon allows anglers to anchor in any condition with three user-selectable anchoring modes – another exclusive feature. The AUTO-DRIVE MODE powers the spike into the bottom with three increasingly aggressive hits. A SOFT BOTTOM MODE is ideal for less aggressive anchoring and easier retraction in muddy or silted bottom. When the wind is blowing, the ROUGH WATER MODE performs three consecutive auto-drive sequences at 10-second intervals for a secure hold when the boat rises and falls in waves.

Talon’s electro-mechanical design keeps the motor above the waterline for silent stealth below the surface. Talon also deploys vertically and out of the way, helping eliminate unwanted tangles when fighting boat-side fish. Also, anglers can add the tilt bracket accessory for easy tilt function for passing under low-hanging obstacles.

In addition to the new 15-footer, Talons are also available in 8-, 10- and 12-foot models. They all feature Bluetooth technology with a variety of color combinations including red/black, blue/black, silver/black, silver/white, all black and all white. The new Talons will be available in October 2017 and will retail for $1,899.99 (8-foot), $1,999.99 (10-foot), 2,099.99 (12-foot) and $2,499.99 (15-foot).

For more information visit MinnKotaMotors.com/NewTalon.

About Johnson Outdoors Marine Electronics, Inc.
Johnson Outdoors Marine Electronics, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Johnson Outdoors and consists of the Humminbird®, Minn Kota® and Cannon® brands. Humminbird® is a leading global innovator and manufacturer of marine electronics products including fishfinders, multifunction displays, autopilots, ice flashers and premium cartography products. Minn Kota® is the world’s leading manufacturer of electric trolling motors, as well as a complete line of Talon® shallow-water anchors, battery chargers and marine accessories. Cannon® is the leader in controlled-depth fishing and includes a full line of downrigger products and accessories.

About Johnson Outdoors
JOHNSON OUTDOORS is a leading global outdoor recreation company that turns ideas into adventure with innovative, top-quality products. The company designs, manufactures and markets a portfolio of winning, consumer-preferred brands across four categories: Watercraft, Marine Electronics, Diving and Outdoor Gear. Johnson Outdoors' familiar brands include, among others: Old Town^® canoes and kayaks; Ocean Kayak^™ and Necky^® kayaks; Carlisle^®paddles; Extrasport^® personal flotation devices; Minn Kota^® fishing motors, batteries and anchors; Cannon^® downriggers; Humminbird^®marine electronics and digital charts; SCUBAPRO^®dive equipment; Silva^® compasses; Jetboil^®outdoor cooking systems; and Eureka!^®camping and hiking equipment.

by AnglersChannel

LEXINGTON’S WRIGHT WINS T-H MARINE FLW BFL PIEDMONT DIVISION TOURNAMENT ON FALLS LAKE PRESENTED BY NAVIONICS

Virginia’s Cooke Earns Co-angler Title

CREEDMOOR, N.C. (July 10, 2017) – David Wright of Lexington, North Carolina, caught five bass weighing 23 pounds, 2 ounces, Saturday to win the T-H Marine FLW Bass Fishing League (BFL) Piedmont Division tournament on Falls Lake presented by Navionics. For his efforts, Wright pocketed $5,122.

“After jumping around trying to avoid boat pressure, I pulled up to a bar right off of the main-river channel that was near deep water,” said Wright, who notched his 12th career-win in FLW competition. “I noticed my co-angler was really catching them on a June Bug-colored (Zoom) Trick Worm, so I began throwing one as well. I put it on a shaky-head rig and caught two, including a 6-pounder.”

Wright said his bass were positioned on top of the bar and in the shallowest water.

“I didn’t fish the very tip of the bar because everyone had stopped there,” said Wright. “I sat right off of the edge, in 12 to 14 feet of water, and fished the back side. I preferred to throw the worm over the top of it if the section wasn’t too wide.

“At about 10:30 (a.m.), I hit a small piece of cover on the side of the bar and caught a 7-pounder using a black (Zoom) Magnum Worm,” continued Wright. “After bringing in one more 4-pounder, I moved on.”

Wright said he finished his day on a ledge with a Zoom ‘Ol Monster Worm, and caught his final bass with 15 minutes left in the event.

The top 10 boaters finished the tournament in:

1^st: David Wright, Lexington, N.C., five bass, 23-2, $5,122

2^nd: William Small, Wake Forest, N.C., five bass, 20-11, $2,436

3^rd: Flash Butts, Roanoke Rapids, N.C., five bass, 20-2, $1,592

4^th: Mike Miller, Trinity, N.C., five bass, 18-5, $1,043

5^th: Dan Glosson, Rougemont, N.C., five bass, 17-10, $894

6^th: Skeet Bennett, Wake Forest, N.C., five bass, 17-7, $820

7^th: Aaron Bussard, Apex, N.C., four bass, 16-12, $745

8^th: Bryan Elrod, Mechanicsvlle, Va., five bass, 16-8, $671

9^th: Timothy Scott, Bassett, Va., five bass, 16-6, $559

9^th: Tommy Little, Chester, Va., five bass, 16-6, $559

Complete results can be found at FLWFishing.com.

Wright’s 7-pound, 15-ounce catch was the heaviest of the event in the Boater Division, and earned the day’s Boater Big Bass award of $650.

Hank Cooke of Emporia, Virginia, won the Co-angler Division and $2,661 Saturday after catching four bass weighing 16 pounds, 15 ounces.

The top 10 co-anglers were:

1^st: Hank Cooke, Emporia, Va., four bass, 16-15, $2,661

2^nd: Thomas Hirsch, Powhatan, Va., five bass, 16-2, $1,168

3^rd: Charles Curtis, Wake Forest, N.C., five bass, 16-1, $745

4^th: Mark Whitman, Elon, N.C., five bass, 14-8, $522

5^th: Stacy Metz, Staley, N.C., five bass, 12-5, $447

6^th: Gilbert Brown, Fredericksburg, Va., four bass, 11-7, $410

7^th: Greg Ravitsky, Ashburn, Va., five bass, 9-15, $373

8^th: Matthew Noraas, Pamplin, Va., three bass, 9-8, $335

9^th: Ronald Haley, Danville, Va., three bass, 8-12, $298

10^th: Jason Hinger, Timberlake, N.C., four bass, 8-11, $261

Cooke also caught the largest bass in the Co-angler Division – a fish weighing 6 pounds, 2 ounces – and earned the day’s Co-angler Big Bass award of $325.

The top 45 boaters and co-anglers in the region based on point standings, along with the five winners in each qualifying event, will be entered in the Oct. 12-14 BFL Regional Championship on the James River in Williamsburg, Virginia. Boaters will compete for a top award of a Ranger Z518C with a 200-horsepower Evinrude outboard and $20,000, while co-anglers will fish for a new Ranger Z518C with a 200-horsepower Evinrude outboard.

For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the BFL on Facebook at Facebook.com/FLWFishing and on Twitter at Twitter.com/FLWFishing.

by AnglersChannel

Plano Introduces KVD 3600 Signature Tackle Bag

Like millions of other anglers, bass phenom Kevin Van Dam relies on Plano to keep his fishing gear protected and well organized – at home, in the truck and on the water. And for 2018, Plano’s new KVD 3600 Signature Tackle Bag packs all-new levels of KVD-grade performance and efficiency.

The KVD 3600 Signature Tackle Bag defies rain and spray with an innovative molded top and base, along with a water-resistant protective TPE coating. Elevated rubber feet on the waterproof base keep the bag firmly planted and above wet surfaces. Its Utili-TackleTM Rail System includes 34 accessory attachment points, plus tie-down slots. The molded top holds a 3600-size StowAway® secured by an elastic bungee for immediate access to hot baits, while up to four additional StowAways® fit inside the main compartment. A waterproof zippered pocket is specifically sized for phones and wallets. Additional upgrades include MOLLE attachment points, an integrated tool pocket and a bright red interior for improved visibility in low light conditions. A larger 3700 size is also available.

MSRP for the he KVD 3600 Signature Tackle Bag is $99.99.

by AnglersChannel

JOHNSON WINS T-H MARINE FLW BFL MUSIC CITY DIVISION TOURNAMENT ON OLD HICKORY LAKE PRESENTED BY NAVIONICS

Culleoka’s Andrews Earns Co-angler Title

GALLATIN, Tenn. (July 10, 2017) – Daniel Johnson of Lebanon, Tennessee, brought five bass weighing 18 pounds, 7 ounces, to the scale Saturday to win the T-H Marine FLW Bass Fishing League (BFL) Music City Division tournament on Old Hickory Lake presented by Navionics. Johnson took home $3,418 for his victory.

“I caught my fish on the upper end of the lake,” said Johnson, who earned his first career-win in FLW competition. “They were all from isolated wood – the bigger the wood, the better. I focused on bass in 1 to 3 feet of water and caught 11 keepers throughout the day.”

Johnson said he used tubes and beaver-style baits with a 5/8-ounce Jenko Fishing Creature Weight to catch his fish, and that he preferred black-and-blue and green-pumpkin colors.

“I had a limit early, but after the sun poked through I culled four of them out,” said Johnson. “The sunshine concentrated bass in the cover, which made them more predictable. I could hit the high-percentage areas and skip a lot more water. Everything just seemed to align with how I was fishing.”

The top 10 boaters finished the tournament in:

1st: Daniel Johnson, Lebanon, Tenn., five bass, 18-7, $3,418

2nd: Dwight Fox, Gainesboro, Tenn., five bass, 17-4, $1,909

3rd: Jason Lee, Baxter, Tenn., five bass, 14-9, $1,138

4th: Hunter Bouldin, McMinnville, Tenn., five bass, 13-12, $898

5th: Beau Grissim, Lebanon, Tenn., five bass, 13-11, $684

6th: John Hopkins, Hendersonville, Tenn., five bass, 13-3, $627

7th: Rodney Allen, Clarkrange, Tenn., five bass, 13-2, $570

8th: Terry Steele, Sparta, Tenn., five bass, 12-7, $933

9th: Steve Whitaker, Scottsville, Ky., five bass, 12-5, $456

10th: Josh Tramel, Smithville, Tenn., five bass, 12-0, $399

Complete results can be found at FLWFishing.com.

Steele caught a 5-pound, 13-ounce bass – the heaviest of the event in the Boater Division – and earned the day’s Boater Big Bass award of $420.

Jaylen Andrews of Culleoka, Tennessee, won the Co-angler Division and $1,709 Saturday after catching three bass weighing 11 pounds, 15 ounces.

The top 10 co-anglers were:

1st: Jaylen Andrews, Culleoka, Tenn., three bass, 11-15, $1,709

2nd: John Davenport, Huntsville, Ala., five bass, 9-6, $712

2nd: Joey Myers, Gallatin, Tenn., five bass, 9-6, $912

4th: Matthew Bouldin, Smithville, Tenn., five bass, 8-11, $399

5th: Greg O’Neal, Winchester, Tenn., four bass, 8-8, $342

6th: Edward Lovely, Manchester, Tenn., three bass, 7-12, $363

7th: Roland Wade, Rocky Face, Ga., three bass, 6-15, $285

8th: Mark Wedan, Freetown, Ind., three bass, 6-11, $256

9th: Corey Poss, Smithville, Tenn., two bass, 6-10, $438

10th: Joey D'Andrea, Knoxville, Tenn., three bass, 6-7, $199

Poss caught the largest bass in the Co-angler Division – a fish weighing 4 pounds, 13 ounces. The catch earned him the day’s Co-angler Big Bass award of $210.

The top 45 boaters and co-anglers in the region based on point standings, along with the five winners in each qualifying event, will be entered in the Oct. 12-14 BFL Regional Championship on Wheeler Lake in Decatur, Alabama. Boaters will compete for a top award of a Ranger Z518C with a 200-horsepower Evinrude outboard and $20,000, while co-anglers will fish for a new Ranger Z518C with a 200-horsepower Evinrude outboard.

For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the BFL on Facebook at Facebook.com/FLWFishing and on Twitter at Twitter.com/FLWFishing.

by AnglersChannel

DORSETT WINS T-H MARINE FLW BFL BAMA DIVISION EVENT ON NEELY HENRY LAKE

ODENVILLE’S DORSETT WINS T-H MARINE FLW BASS FISHING LEAGUE BAMA DIVISION EVENT ON NEELY HENRY LAKE

Powell Takes Co-angler Title

GADSDEN, Ala. (July 10, 2017) – Kyle Dorsett of Odenville, Alabama, caught a five-bass limit weighing 14 pounds, 7 ounces, Saturday to earn top honors at the T-H Marine FLW Bass Fishing League (BFL) Bama Division tournament on Neely Henry Lake. For his efforts, Dorsett pocketed $3,592.

Dorsett said he spent the tournament fishing a 20-mile stretch between Canoe Creek and the takeoff ramp.

“I targeted a couple of areas that I found in practice that had a lot of fish,” said Dorsett, who logged his second career-victory in BFL competition. “I put 30 or 40 fish in the boat throughout the event and culled four or five times.”

Dorsett’s bait of choice was a white Dirty Jigs Swim Jig with a White Pearl-colored Zoom Super Chunk trailer.

“A lot of the field was flipping a jig or throwing a crankbait,” said Dorsett. “The reaction bite was crucial for the bigger ones. I think the Super Chunk was also a big part of my success. The fish seemed lethargic and didn’t want something with a lot of action. The Super Chunk doesn’t kick much, so it was perfect.”

The top 10 boaters finished the tournament in:

1st: Kyle Dorsett, Odenville, Ala., five bass, 14-7, $3,592

2nd: John Jeter, Birmingham, Ala., five bass, 13-11, $2,256

3rd: Terry Tucker, Gadsden, Ala., five bass, 12-14, $1,219

3rd: Mark McCaig, Oxford, Ala., five bass, 12-14, $1,019

5th: Jason Hester, Phil Campbell, Ala., five bass, 12-13, $818

6th: Jason Nixon, Wetumpka, Ala., five bass, 12-9, $659

7th: Geoff McKnight, Rainbow City, Ala., five bass, 12-6, $599

8th: Kent Keys, Anniston, Ala., five bass, 12-1, $539

9th: Jack White, Vance, Ala., five bass, 12-0, $479

10th: Bradley Jones, Aragon, Ga., five bass, 11-15, $398

10th: Jake Roberson, Tuscumbia, Ala., five bass, 11-15, $398

Complete results can be found at FLWFishing.com.

Jeter caught a bass weighing 5 pounds, 13 ounces – the heaviest of the event in the Boater Division – and earned the day’s Boater Big Bass award of $460.

Mason Powell of Odenville, Alabama, won the Co-angler Division and $1,796 Saturday after catching a five-bass limit weighing 12 pounds, 8 ounces.

The top 10 co-anglers were:

1st: Mason Powell, Odenville, Ala., five bass, 12-8, $1,796

2nd: James Wooddell, Columbus, Ohio, five bass, 11-12, $898

3rd: Chris Harcrow, Dawson, Ala., five bass, 11-11, $598

4th: James Griffin, Pelham, Ga., five bass, 10-9, $419

5th: Harold Gauer, Phenix City, Ala., five bass, 10-6, $559

6th: Gary Marlowe, Montgomery, Ala., five bass, 10-4, $329

7th: Chris Hawkins, Adger, Ala., five bass, 10-3, $349

8th: Gregory Nunnelly, Ohatchee, Ala., five bass, 9-11, $269

9th: David Ramey, Kingsport, Tenn., five bass, 9-5, $239

10th: Wayne Kilgore, Attalla, Ala., five bass, 8-15, $199

10th: Logan Henderson , Trussville, Ala., five bass, 8-15, $199

Daniel Sullivan of Guntown, Mississippi, caught the largest bass in the Co-angler Division – a fish weighing 3 pounds, 15 ounces. The catch earned him the day’s Co-angler Big Bass award of $230.

The top 45 boaters and co-anglers in the region based on point standings, along with the five winners in each qualifying event, will be entered in the Oct. 12-14 BFL Regional Championship on Wheeler Lake in Decatur, Alabama. Boaters will compete for a top award of a Ranger Z518C with a 200-horsepower Evinrude outboard and $20,000, while co-anglers will fish for a new Ranger Z518C with a 200-horsepower Evinrude outboard.

For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the BFL on Facebook at Facebook.com/FLWFishing and on Twitter at Twitter.com/FLWFishing.

by AnglersChannel

2018 Bassmaster Elite Series Schedule Released, Slate Features Exciting Mix Of New And Familiar Fisheries

The 2018 Bassmaster Elite Series schedule features both old and new fisheries for the tournament trail. A first for the Elite Series is Bassmaster Magazine's 100 Best Bass Lakes finalist Lake Oahe out of Pierre, S.D.

Photo courtesy of North Dakota Game and Fish Department

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 10, 2017

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The Bassmaster Elite Series has a rich history that always seems to lead it back to venues where special moments have taken place in the past.
It’s also blessed with a sense of discovery — and that leads the organization to sometimes visit lakes that are a little off the beaten path.

The 2018 Elite Series schedule, which was announced today, features elements of both.

The lineup includes stops at traditional venues like the Sabine River in Orange, Texas, and the St. Lawrence River in Waddington, N.Y., where crowds for past Elite Series events have always been huge. The schedule also features an eye-popping, first-time stop at scenic Lake Oahe on the Missouri River near Pierre, S.D.

B.A.S.S. CEO Bruce Akin said he loves the flow of a schedule that will allow the Elite Series to visit old friends — and make a lot of new ones — during an eight-month stretch of next year’s calendar.

“We are very serious about taking bass fishing into new regions of the country and exposing as many people to our sport as we can,” Akin said. “But in doing that, we’ll never forget the people who have shown us so much support every time we’ve visited their communities.

“This schedule has some history, as well as some new adventures for our Elite anglers and fans, and I think that’s fantastic.”

As it did in 2017, the schedule will begin in early February in the southeastern United States — where the prevailing weather patterns could range from 20 degrees with sleet and snow to 60 degrees with a need for SPF 50.

The season opener is set for Lake Martin in Alexander City, Ala., on Feb. 8-11. Martin, which is known for its healthy population of spotted bass, was a regular stop for Bassmaster events during the late 1990s and early 2000s. But the last time B.A.S.S. visited the 44,000-acre lake on the Tallapoosa River for a high-level event was in November 2002.

After Lake Martin, the Elites will take a break from the regular-season schedule, while the 2018 GEICO Bassmaster Classic presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods is held on Lake Hartwell at Anderson, S.C., with weigh-ins and other events in Greenville, S.C. The annual Super Bowl of professional bass fishing is set for March 16-18 on the same lake where Casey Ashley claimed the 2015 title.

When the Classic buzz is barely three weeks old, the Elite Series schedule will resume with a trip to the Sabine River, where fans have proved their love for pro fishing time and again.

An Elite Series tournament held on the Sabine River in 2013 obliterated previous attendance records by drawing 33,650 people for the four-day event in Orange. The event also reset the one-day Elite Series attendance record by drawing 14,950 fans for the Saturday semifinal weigh-in.

The overall record was broken later in 2013, when 34,100 people turned out for an August Elite Series event in Waddington, N.Y. But judging by the big turnout at a Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Central Open held in Orange in mid-June, the city could be ready for another run at the record.

The third and fourth Elite Series tournaments of the year will also be held at familiar venues, with the trail stopping at Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees in Grove, Okla., April 26-29, and at Kentucky Lake in Paris, Tenn., May 4-7. Grand Lake hosted the Classic in 2013 and 2016, and Kentucky Lake has been the site of a dozen high-level B.A.S.S. events, including the 2015 BASSfest.

The Elites will fish one more tournament in May — the Toyota Bassmaster Texas Fest benefiting the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. The special $1 million tournament combines the best features of the Texas Toyota Bass Classic and BASSfest and will be held May 17-20 at a location to be announced later.

What is known for certain is that after Texas, the Elite pros will travel to La Crosse, Wis., for a return visit to that area’s bass-filled section of the Mississippi River. The trail visited La Crosse in September 2016 when Tennessee angler Ott DeFoe won with 63-10.

From there, the schedule takes one of its more intriguing turns in years with a trip to Lake Oahe, which straddles the border between South Dakota and North Dakota, and which recently ranked ninth in the Central Region of Bassmaster Magazine’s 100 Best Bass Lakes list.

It will mark not only the first time B.A.S.S. has visited the mammoth 370,000-acre lake, but also the first time the organization has held a high-level tournament in the state of South Dakota.

The fourth-largest reservoir in the United States may be the closest thing to an unknown commodity that the Elites have seen since the trail’s inception in 2006. That could make for a particularly interesting tournament, considering the new “no-information” rule that prohibits anglers from soliciting or intentionally receiving information about locating bass on tournament venues from the moment the schedule is announced.

Under current Elite Series rules, anglers are allowed to obtain information about a fishery until the official off-limit period goes into effect four weeks prior to an event.

“It means a lot of things will change, including no more sharing of waypoints of hot spots found by other fishermen,” said B.A.S.S. Tournament Director Trip Weldon. “The no-information rule has the support of the Elite anglers — and it will make it more important than ever for everyone to be able to go out and find their own fish.”

Another departure from traditional Elite Series schedules is the increase in the number of events ending on a Monday. Almost invariably (GoPro Bassmaster Elite at Dardanelle presented by Econo Lodge being an exception) competition days are Thursday through Sunday. Elite tournaments next year at the Sabine River, Kentucky Lake and Lake Oahe will take place Friday through Monday. The Sabine was scheduled differently to avoid practice fishing on Easter Sunday, and the other two start later because they are part of back-to-back events.

From South Dakota, with the race for the Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year title heating up, the schedule will move to Havre de Grace, Md., for an event on the upper Chesapeake Bay. It was in 2015 on Chesapeake Bay when Aaron Martens all but sealed his third AOY title, scoring a dramatic victory with 70-2.

The final regular-season event will be held on the St. Lawrence River in Waddington, N.Y. — where more fans turned out for a B.A.S.S. tournament in 2013 than ever before or since. The river, which is known for producing gigantic smallmouth bass, ranked third in the Northeastern Region of Bassmaster Magazine’s 100 Best Bass Lakes list.

Two postseason Elite Series events — the Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year Championship and the Classic Bracket — will be held in late September. Locations will be revealed at a later time.

2018 Bassmaster Elite Series Schedule

Date Event Fishery City, State

Feb. 8-11 Elite 1 Lake Martin Alexander City, Ala.

March 16-18 Bassmaster Classic Lake Hartwell Greenville/Anderson, S.C.

April 6-9 Elite 2 Sabine River Orange, Texas

April 26-29 Elite 3 Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees Grove, Okla.

May 4-7 Elite 4 Kentucky Lake Paris, Tenn.

May 17-20 Toyota Texas Fest TBA TBA

June 21-24 Elite 6 Mississippi River La Crosse, Wis.

June 29-July 2 Elite 7 Lake Oahe Pierre, S.D.

July 26-29 Elite 8 Upper Chesapeake Bay Havre de Grace, Md.

Aug. 23-26 Elite 9 St. Lawrence River Waddington, N.Y.

Sept. 20-23 AOY Championship TBA TBA

Sept. 25-28 Classic Bracket TBA TBA

2017 Bassmaster Elite Series Platinum Sponsor: Toyota

2017 Bassmaster Elite Series Premier Sponsors: Nitro Boats, Mercury, Minn Kota, Power-Pole, Shell Rotella, Skeeter Boats, Triton Boats, Yamaha, Berkley, Huk, Humminbird

2017 Bassmaster Elite Series Supporting Sponsors: T-H Marine, Shimano, Advance Auto Parts, Livingston Lures, Academy Sports + Outdoors, Carhartt, Dick Cepek Tires & Wheels, Lowrance, Phoenix Boats

The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Bassmaster Elite Series, Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Open Series, Academy Sports + Outdoors B.A.S.S. Nation presented by Magellan, Carhartt Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Costa Bassmaster High School Series presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods, Toyota Bonus Bucks Bassmaster Team Championship and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the GEICO Bassmaster Classic presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods.

by AnglersChannel

Garmin® Expands Revolutionary Panoptix Sonar Capabilities

OLATHE, Kan./July 10, 2017/Business Wire – Garmin International, Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ: GRMN), today announced the PanoptixTM PS22-TR, its newest Panoptix transducer with LiveVü Forward and LiveVü Down that offers a narrow 20-degree beam angle for crisp, improved resolution and clear images of what’s all around and below the boat – in real time and even while stationary. Paired with a compatible Garmin GPSMAP® or echoMAP® CHIRP chartplotter, Panoptix delivers a whole new perspective to fishing that lets anglers watch the movement of fish and the reactions to their bait, up to 100 feet away. Designed for trolling motor installation, the PS22-TR is the latest addition to the popular Panoptix product line, which now includes seven models with varying installation options for inland and offshore application.

“Garmin’s Panoptix all-seeing sonar technology continues to change the way people fish,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales. “It’s the only sonar of its kind that gives anglers the ability to see all around their boat in real time, and we’re excited to expand this unique capability to even more inland and near-shore fishermen with the introduction of the PS22-TR that provides two LiveVü modes in one transducer.”

With a Panoptix PS22-TR on board, fishermen can see real-time sonar imagery at video-like speed using the view of their choice – forward or down – and thanks to its simple design, it’s easy to change mounting configurations between the two. By providing both LiveVü scanning views, anglers have the ability to tailor the PS22-TR to best fit how they fish. Unlike traditional or scanning sonar that only provides historical data of what’s been passed over, LiveVü Forward shows an image of fish swimming and moving toward or away from the boat and LiveVü Down shows moving sonar images below the boat. The PS22-TR’s 20-degree narrow beam angle allows users to pinpoint fish and structure so they know exactly where to cast.

The Garmin Panoptix PS22-TR LiveVü Forward and LiveVü Down trolling motor transducer is expected to be available in the third quarter for $999.99. Mounting hardware is included to install the PS22-TR on the shaft or barrel of a trolling motor. It’s compatible with select echoMAP CHIRP 7- and 9-inch models, as well as the GPSMAP 8400/8600, GPSMAP 7400/7600, and the GPSMAP 7x2, 9x2, 10x2 and 12x2 series chartplotters. For more information, visit garmin.com/panoptix.

Garmin was recently named Manufacturer of the Year for the second year in a row by the NMEA, an honor given to the most recognized marine electronics company for support of products in the field. Garmin’s portfolio includes some of the industry’s most sophisticated chartplotters and touchscreen multifunction displays, sonar technology, high-definition radar, autopilots, high- resolution mapping, sailing instrumentation, and other products and services that are known for innovation, reliability, and ease-of-use.

For decades, Garmin has pioneered new GPS navigation and wireless devices and applications that are designed for people who live an active lifestyle. Garmin serves five primary business units, including automotive, aviation, fitness, marine, and outdoor recreation. For more information, visit Garmin's virtual pressroom at garmin.com/newsroom, contact the Media

Relations department at 913-397-8200, or follow us at facebook.com/garmin, twitter.com/garmin, or youtube.com/garmin.

About Garmin International Inc. Garmin International Inc. is a subsidiary of Garmin Ltd. (Nasdaq: GRMN). Garmin Ltd. is incorporated in Switzerland, and its principal subsidiaries are located in the United States, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. Garmin, GPSMAP and echoMAP are registered trademarks and Panoptix is a trademark of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries.

Notice on Forward-Looking Statements:

This release includes forward-looking statements regarding Garmin Ltd. and its business. Such statements are based on management’s current expectations. The forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this release may not occur and actual results could differ materially as a result of known and unknown risk factors and uncertainties affecting Garmin, including, but not limited to, the risk factors listed in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016, filed by Garmin with the Securities and Exchange Commission (Commission file number 0-31983). A copy of such Form 10-K is available at http://www.garmin.com/aboutGarmin/invRelations/finReports.html. No forward- looking statement can be guaranteed. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and Garmin undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

by AnglersChannel

Strike King Tour Grade Mag Jighead

This Head Will Standup to Big Bass!

Collierville, Tenn. (June 1, 2017) – We have seen a trend in the last few years involving big, straight-tail worms. The proof of this is the success of our Bullworm in both sizes. The most common problem is that it’s hard to find the perfect head. The shape, weight and hook size of what’s out there almost never coincides to be what you would want. Until now. Introducing the all-new Tour Grade Mag Jig Head from Strike King!

“The effectiveness of a worm, or other style of plastic, on a standup-style jig head is something that most pros count on regularly. This type of presentation seems to be attractive to the bigger fish that it takes to win tournaments. The problem is that most of the existing heads are designed for big fish. The new Tour Grade Mag Jighead on the other hand, was designed for just that” explains Keith Combs, 6-time Bassmaster Classic Qualifier.

“This head is perfect in terms of head shape, how it attaches to whatever plastic you use, and especially the hook. When you stick them with this head, they’re coming in the boat!” says Combs.

The all-new Tour Grade Mag Jighead comes in 4 sizes (1/4, 3/8, ½ & ¾), 2 colors (Black & Green Pumpkin) and is offered with both a 5/0 and 7/0 premium black nickel hook. Look for it at better tackle retailers everywhere following ICAST!

by AnglersChannel

T-H MARINE ADDS DEREK TROVILLION AS DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL MARKETING

Huntsville, AL – July 10, 2017 -- T-H Marine Supplies, Inc., of Huntsville, Alabama, announces that Derek Trovillion has joined the company as the Director of Digital Marketing. Derek will lead strategy and management of the company's digital presence, including the company's websites, advertising, online promotions, content management, and social media.

T-H Marine’s President and CEO, Jeff Huntley, said, “We've had several years to get to know Derek in his role as a digital marketing consultant, so we are thrilled to have him working on our team full-time. We will certainly be putting his communications and marketing experience to work as we head into ICAST 2017 in Orlando and as we make big plans for growing our presence in the fishing and boating industry."

Before joining T-H Marine, Derek worked in various capacities building his writing, marketing, and project management expertise. He built a firm foundation in traditional communications, including journalism, copy-editing, and event outreach, but he prides himself as an early adopter of digital platforms.

When working for a digital marketing agency, Derek focused on long-term strategy and practical innovations for clients like T-H Marine. After a few years of working together, it came time for T-H Marine to grow again and it was a natural fit for Derek to join the team.

"I work in a pretty technical field, but I have loved fishing and boating and enjoying the outdoors my whole life," said Derek Trovillion. "It's like I'm getting the best of both worlds, so this opportunity is really exciting for me."

"I look forward to working with the awesome team at T-H Marine even more as we promote the company's extensive product list, innovate and build upon what we have to offer, and connect with audiences who love to get out on the water."

“With Derek driving our digital presence, I am excited about how we can strengthen our connections with existing customers online and how we can reach new customers, too," Jeff Huntley added. "We know it is essential to have a strong digital presence for the growing list of products we are excited to promote. We look forward to the opportunity this presents for growing our new brands online including the AquaBlaze™ LEDs, our expanding line of HydroWave™ units, our KVD KONG™ mounts, the Tackle Titan™, and Z-launch™. And, of course, we will continue to promote our industry standards like the ATLAS™ Hydraulic Jack Plate, our G-Force™ products, G-Juice™, the Hot-Foot™, and the Oxygenator™.”

T-H Marine is celebrating its 42nd anniversary of business and has grown to be one of the largest manufacturers of boating and fishing accessories in the U.S. T-H Marine provides parts to every boat manufacturer in the country and distributes them through virtually every major distributor and retailer of boating and fishing products. To learn more about T-H Marine, please visit http://thmarine.com/about-us.

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If you would like more information about T-H Marine and our growing team, please use the contact information provided above.

by AnglersChannel

Cody Seeger Wins ABA Ram Trucks Open Series Ohio Division Event!!

Cody Seeger won the American Bass Anglers Ram Truck Open Series Ohio Division tournament held 07/08/2017. Running out of Tanner’s Creek park in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, Cody weighed in a five bass limit for 9.07 pounds. He anchored his catch with a bass that weighed 2.91 pounds. For the Boater Division victory, Seeger took home a check for $5000.00.

“I caught probably 17 fish today but most were shorts. I caught about seven keepers. What really helped me was I came up last week when the river was down and I marked some wood that’s now in 6-7 feet of water. I picked the wood apart using a tube and a beaver.” Said Seeger.

In second for the boaters, Christopher Combess of Cleves, Ohio weighed in a five bass limit weighing 9.05 pounds. He anchored his limit with a bass that weighed in at 2.55 pounds. He collected $600.00 for the effort.

“I caught six bass today culling once. I caught them on a worm and a buzzbait.” Said Combess.

Jake Poffenberger of Brookville, Ohio took third place with a five bass limit weighing in at 8.25 pounds. He anchored his catch with a bass that weighed 2.43 pounds. Jake collected $475.00.

“I caught probably eight keepers today along with 6-7 short fish. I was fishing shallow, flipping a tube and throwing a spinnerbait.” Said Poffenberger.

Finishing fourth, Josh Smith of Hamilton, Ohio weighed in a five bass limit weighing 7.69 pounds.

Rounding out the top five Garry Kincaid of Martinsville, Indiana weighed in a five bass limit weighing 7.62 pounds.

Josh Smith of Hamilton, Ohio weighed in the biggest bass for the boaters. Smith’s bass weighed in at 4.30 pounds. Smith collected $380.00 for the catch.

In the Co-Angler Division, Edward Backs of Troy, Ohio won with three bass weighing 4.03 pounds. Backs sealed his victory with a 2.07 pound kicker to pocket a check for $500.00

“I was fishing baits different from the baits my boater was using. I caught one on a crankbait, one on a worm and one on a hair jig.” Said Backs.

Taking second for the co-anglers, Jason Skipworth of Harrison, Ohio weighed in two bass for 3.90 pounds. Skipworth collected $350.00 for the effort.

“I was fishing a jig on the main river. I caught probably 20 fish but only had two that would keep.” Said Skipworth.

Taking third for the co anglers Tim Cukovecki of Dayton, Ohio weighed in three bass that weighed 3.39 pounds.

Finishing fourth was Dennis Cruse of Columbus, Ohio who weighed in two bass for 3.36 pounds. Also for having the biggest bass for the co anglers at 2.39 pounds Cruse won $65.00 for the catch.

Rounding out the top five was James Wilcox of Cincinnati Ohio who weighed in 2 bass for 2.20 pounds.

Slated for 07/29/2017 the next tournament for the Ohio Division will on Indian Lake out of Moundwood State Park . At the end of the season, the best anglers from across the nation advance the 2018 Ray Scott Championship, slated for the Red River in Shreveport-Bossier Louisiana in April 2018.

For more information on this tournament, call Rodney Michael, tournament manager, at 256-497-0967 or ABA at 256-232-0406. On line, see www.ramopenseries.com .

About American Bass Anglers: American Bass Anglers is committed to providing low cost, close to home tournaments for the weekend angler and at the same time offer each competitor an upward path for individual angler progression. For more information about American Bass Anglers, the Ram Truck Open Series, the American Fishing Tour or the American Couples Series, visit www.americanbassanglers.com.

by AnglersChannel

Pescitelli - Kickin Their Bass on the Water and in the Classroom!

By Vance McCullough

Collegiate Angler Noah Pescitelli had an outstanding freshman season on the water. He also took care of business in the classroom where earned a spot on the Dean’s List at Savanah College of Art and Design.

With a 3^rd place showing at a Bassmaster Southern Regional Collegiate event Pescitelli proved he’s an avid angler. He also enjoys the academic experience at SCAD. “I really wasn’t much of an ‘artsy’ person at all, but I got offered a really great scholarship and the education you get here . . . 98% job placement, the degree I’ll get here is just absolutely amazing.

“I’ve learned a lot of things about computer programs and other things that are going to help me in my business, not just now, but in the long run.”

Originally from Bufford, GA, Pescitelli enjoys his surroundings at SCAD. “Savanah is amazing. I like everything around there. It’s a fun place to be.”

SCAD is unique in that it doesn’t have a fishing club run by students, but rather, the school itself established a varsity bass fishing team and hired a full-time coach, Isaac Payne, who actively recruits anglers.

How did Pescitelli become the first Georgia high school student to sign a bass fishing scholarship? The ‘business’ he referred to is his Kickin Their Bass TV which has a presence on every social media platform. His followers number in the hundreds of thousands. Couple that with Pescitelli’s on-water achievements and it’s easy to understand why Coach Payne extended the offer.

During his first year as a competitive angler Pescitelli narrowly missed winning the high school state title by 0.03 ounce.

Last year was the first for the SCAD team. Having Pescitelli, a freshman, lead the way for the new program seems appropriate. Indeed, he was the program’s Angler of the Year.

Coach Payne has some off-water considerations when it comes to crowning an Angler of the Year. These requirements speak volumes about Pescitelli’s character. “You’re going to college to graduate and to better your life. And to fish too. But just having all first-place finishes doesn’t get you a job. Being a well-rounded angler, a dynamic individual who encompasses all aspects, who brings it full circle – an Angler of the Year for me is someone who is able to do everything, not just fish.”

Coach Payne is especially impressed with how Pescitelli works with others. “Noah collaborates well. He gets his strengths to match with other peoples’ weaknesses and his weaknesses with other peoples’ strengths. Collaboration is a big thing. If you’re the catcher, you have to have a pitcher. Everybody is important on the team.”

Many young AOY recipients would dream of Bassmaster Elite Series fame. But Pescitelli? “Currently, it’s something I really enjoy doing. I’m doing tournaments. I’m building my own business, doing the whole marketing side of everything. I’m trying to think where, in the future, I’m gonna end up heading. Do I want to head toward pro fishing? Do I want to do TV? Do I want to continue doing social marketing for fishing companies on-line? It’s a lot to think about right now.

“I’m definitely going to keep pursuing my business in the social media side of fishing.”

As the old saying goes, the more deeply involved you are in the fishing industry, the less you time you get to spend fishing. Pescitelli is considering semi-pro competition sometime soon, but, “I was thinking about fishing some of the BFL’s as a boater or even as a co-angler. I’m still contemplating some of that but right now, with my business, I just haven’t had much time to do it. That is something that in the near future, I’ll probably try.”

Pescitelli is majoring in advertising which dovetails nicely with his current business pursuits that revolve heavily around marketing and brand awareness for fishing related companies.

In addition to pond-hopping with his grand dad, Pescitelli practiced his craft on Lake Lanier when he was younger. “Then I started fishing the high school trails and it kind of grew from there. We fished the FLW and B.A.S.S. circuits in high school and now fish both in college.”

L to R - Steve (Dad), Patti (Mom), Noah, Coach Payne, Noahs Grandparents

Noah’s dad, Steve, is super supportive of his son’s efforts but he can’t fully participate in the fishing part of things. “He drove my boat during my high school fishing days,” said Noah. “He doesn’t fish too often, kind of does it with me and supports me along the way but he’s actually allergic to fish. He can’t even touch them or have them splash on him. But he’ll go out with me on the water.

“When I put a fish in the boat or touch a fish I have to wipe off the slime really good or if I touch him he’ll break out.”

Along with Dad and his mom, Patti, the family rallies around Noah, “Both of my parents and my grandparents show up to pretty much all of the tournaments we fish.”

As for style preferences, “I’m mostly a power fisherman,” says Pescitelli. “It’s kind of hard for me to slow down which is a good and a bad thing. If I have to slow down I will but I’m trying to hit as many spots as I can, trying locate fish and keep grinding; trying to figure out what the fish are doing.”

Most guys his age root for a favorite few anglers. Pescitelli, on the other hand, is friends with some of his favorites. “Mark Daniels Jr – I’ve done some TV shows with him. Scott Martin, I’ve done a few TV shows with him as well.

“Brandon Palaniuk is good. A lot of young kids look up to him. The Shryock brothers are pretty cool. Those would have to be my Top 5 favorite pros.”

Pescitelli has already gained valuable experience in the TV world. “Last summer we went to Canada and filmed a whole series up there for my social media stuff, filmed a whole week up there. Filmed a show as well and I got to fish with Roland Martin.”

Pescitelli’s ambitious outlook makes him a great fit for Coach Payne and the SCAD team. Of his coach, Pescitelli noted, “He started the fishing team. He has big dreams for us. We’re trying to figure everything out. I talk to him regularly, trying to plan things.”

Given that Pescitelli is only entering his sophomore season at SCAD, the future looks bright for the program and for the young man who is handling his business, on the water, in the classroom and, well, in the business world.

by AnglersChannel

B.A.S.S. Extends ‘No-Info Rule’ For The Bassmaster Elite Series And Bassmaster Classic

July 7, 2017

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — From the earliest days of professional fishing a half-century ago, the most important skill an angler could have is the ability to find the biggest schools of bass. That, more than casting ability or lure selection and presentation, sets the greats in the sport, men like Roland Martin, Rick Clunn and Kevin VanDam, apart from the rest.

With the start of the 2018 Bassmaster Elite Series, that fish-finding wizardry will be even more vital, thanks to a new Elite Series rule that went into effect today.

“Beginning at the time the Elite Series schedule is announced next week, anglers are prohibited from soliciting or intentionally receiving any information about the locations of fish or fishing areas on those waters,” announced B.A.S.S. Tournament Director Trip Weldon.

Also effective immediately, Elite Series competitors may not obtain or solicit information about locating fish on Lake Hartwell, South Carolina, site of the 2018 GEICO Bassmaster Classic presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods. Anglers who earn an invitation to fish the Classic through other Bassmaster circuits or events will have to abide by the rule as soon as they qualify, even provisionally, for the event. For example, winners of Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Opens Series events must abide by the no-info rule beginning as soon as they win an Open.

According to current Elite Series rules — which are already among the most stringent in tournament competition — anglers may not be on a fishery or obtain information about fishing it for four weeks prior to an event. Under the new rule, anglers may still practice on the lake until 28 days prior to the start of official practice, but from the time the schedule is announced, they cannot have the help of anyone familiar with the fishery.

“This new rule is supported overwhelmingly by the Elite anglers themselves,” said Weldon, referring to a recent survey in which more than 80 percent of Elite Series anglers responding supported extending the “no-information” period to a much earlier date. “This change not only helps level the playing field, but it also puts a premium on the all-important ability to find, as well as catch, bass.”

B.A.S.S. will announce eight of the 11 Elite Series events for 2018 in a special video program on Bassmaster.com beginning at 11 a.m. CT Monday, July 10. The new no-information rule will become effective for those events at the same time. The rule will also apply to fisheries for three other Elite tournaments — the Toyota Bassmaster Texas Fest benefiting Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year Championship and the Bassmaster Classic Bracket tournament — as soon as they are announced later this year.

2017 Bassmaster Elite Series Platinum Sponsor: Toyota

2017 Bassmaster Elite Series Premier Sponsors: Mercury, Minn Kota, Power-Pole, Shell Rotella, Skeeter Boats, Triton Boats, Yamaha, Berkley, Huk, Hummingbird, Nitro Boats

2017 Bassmaster Elite Series Supporting Sponsors: Shimano, Advance Auto Parts, Livingston Lures, Academy Sports + Outdoors, Carhartt, Dick Cepek Tires & Wheels, Lowrance, Phoenix Boats, T-H Marine

The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Bassmaster Elite Series, Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Open Series, Academy Sports + Outdoors B.A.S.S. Nation presented by Magellan, Carhartt Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Costa Bassmaster High School Series presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods, Toyota Bonus Bucks Bassmaster Team Championship and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the GEICO Bassmaster Classic presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods.

by AnglersChannel

Humminbird® Basemap Gets Anglers Fishing, Right Out of the Box

The Humminbird® Basemap provides contour maps for the U.S. coasts and 10,000+ inland lakes – including navigational aids, points of interest and other must-have features

RACINE, Wis., July 6, 2017 – The moment anglers press the power button on any Humminbird® HELIXG2 or G2N (networking) unit with GPS, they will now have access to the new Humminbird Basemap, a vast, pre-loaded coastal and lake map resource built into all units.

According to Humminbird Brand Manager Ray Schaffart, “We wanted to make it easier for anglers to navigate and start catching more fish the second they hit the water. By improving our cartography coverage with Humminbird Basemap, they’ll be able to locate fish-holding structure and experience more successful fishing adventures. Saltwater anglers will also appreciate the technology, which calls out hazards and depths, making for a more relaxed time on the water.”

The Humminbird Basemap helps anglers pinpoint fishing hot spots by showing freshwater depth contours in 10- and 20-foot increments for more than 10,000 American lakes, not to mention precise coverage of the entire U.S. coastline thanks to NOAA-based charts, the most trusted source of coastal data. The Basemap also includes navigational aids, marker buoys, depths, points of interest and launch locations to improve the boating experience. In addition to the pre-loaded lakes with contour mapping, the Humminbird Basemap provides shoreline-only maps to hundreds of thousands of other lakes. It also displays highways, roads, railroads, bike paths, and streams, along with more than 200 icons.

To support consumers who recently purchased a HELIX G2 or G2N GPS model, or any first generation HELIX 9, 10 or 12 model, the Humminbird Basemap will be available as a free software download. Consumers will need to visit Humminbird.com to set-up – or log into – their MyHumminbird account. Once logged in, they can download the software for their applicable model(s). Another advantage of the Humminbird Basemap is that it is updatable, so future enhancements and expansions will be made available.

“Humminbird is the leader in providing complete fish-finding solutions, whether on a lake or on the coast,” Schaffart says. “The Humminbird Basemap is yet another innovative way we improve the angling experience every day.”

The Humminbird Basemap will now be included on all HELIX G2/G2N GPS models beginning in July, 2017. It will also be available on all SOLIX models this Fall.

For more information, call Humminbird at 800-633-1468 or visit www.Humminbird.com/Humminbird-Basemap.

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Media Contacts:
Heather Miller, 864-607-7922, [email protected]
JC Maldonado, 414-510-7243, [email protected]

by AnglersChannel

MOUNT IDA HIGH SCHOOL WINS TBF/FLW HIGH SCHOOL FISHING NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP ON PICKWICK LAKE

FLORENCE, Ala. (July 5, 2017) – The Mount Ida High School duo of Hunter Davis and Tyler Allenbrand, both of Mount Ida, Arkansas, brought a five-bass limit to the scale Friday weighing 23 pounds, 10 ounces to win the 2017 TBF/FLW High School Fishing National Championship on Pickwick Lake in Florence, Alabama with a three-day total of 53-6. The win earned the team trophies, the title of national champions and each angler a $5,000 scholarship to their college of choice.

A field of 142 teams competed in the event, which launched from McFarland Park in Florence. The Mount Ida duo won by a 1-pound, 14-ounce margin over the second place team of Cal Culpepper and Mason Waddell from Georgia’s Harris County High School, who weighed in a three-day total of 51-8.

Coached by professional Bassmaster Elite Series angler Mark Davis, Hunter’s father, the youngsters from Arkansas fished two different areas to amass their heaviest stringer of the tournament. The younger Davis and Allenbrand were dragging ¾-ounce Strike King football jigs and Strike King Menace Grub trailers (green pumpkin) slowly across the bottom.

The top 10 teams on Pickwick Lake finished:

1st: Mount Ida High School, Mount Ida, Ark. – Hunter Davis and Tyler Allenbrand, both of Mount Ida, Ark., 15 bass, 53-6, $10,000 Scholarship

2nd: Harris County High School, Hamilton, Ga. – Cal Culpepper, Hamilton, Ga., and Mason Waddell, Waverly Hall, Ga., 15 bass, 51-8

3rd: North Mississippi Student Anglers – Hunter Nanney, Dumas, Miss., and Jake Kimbrough, Smithville, Miss., 15 bass, 50-11

4th: Fannin County High School, Blue Ridge, Ga. – Dalton Tankersley, Morganton, Ga., and Zack Nicholson, Epworth, Ga., 15 bass, 47-9

5th: Obion County Central High School, Troy, Tenn. – Blake Robb, Martin, Tenn., and Cody Gregory, Troy, Tenn., 15 bass, 43-1

6th: Tulsa Bass Club, Tulsa, Okla. – Taylor Hamburger, Tulsa, Okla., and Hunter Harrison, Jones, Okla., 14 bass, 42-4

7th: North Forsyth High School, Cumming, Ga. – Glenn Worley, Dawsonville, Ga., and Paul Marks, Cumming, Ga., 15 bass, 42-3

8th: Oviedo High School, Oviedo, Fla. – Fisher Omans and Steven Steinard, both of Oviedo, Fla., 11 bass, 35-1

9th: East Rowan High School, Salisbury, N.C. – Hunter Harwood, Gold Hill, N.C., and Paiton File, Salisbury, N.C., 12 bass, 32-0

10th: Arkansas Student Angler Federation – Cade Gartman and Jay Morgan, both of Trumann, Ark., 10 bass, 29-9

Complete results for the remaining teams and photos from the event can be found at HighSchoolFishing.org.

The 2017 TBF/FLW High School Fishing National Championship was a two-person (team) no-entry fee event for students in grades 7-12. The tournament featured the top anglers from the 2017 TBF High School Fishing State Championships and Bass Pro Shops FLW High School Fishing Open events.

Full schedules and the latest announcements are available at HighSchoolFishing.org and FLWFishing.com.

About FLW

FLW is the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, providing anglers of all skill levels the opportunity to compete for millions in prize money in 2017 across five tournament circuits. Headquartered in Benton, Kentucky, with offices in Minneapolis, FLW conducts more than 258 bass-fishing tournaments annually across the United States and sanctions tournaments in Canada, China, Mexico, South Africa and South Korea. FLW tournament fishing can be seen on the Emmy-nominated “FLW" television show, broadcast to more than 564 million households worldwide, while FLW Bass Fishing magazine delivers cutting-edge tips from top pros. For more information visit FLWFishing.com and follow FLW at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Snapchat.

About The Bass Federation

The Bass Federation Inc., (TBF) is a member of the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame. TBF is owned by those we serve and dedicated to the sport of fishing. The Federation is the largest and oldest, organized grassroots fishing, youth and conservation organization there is. TBF, our affiliated state federations and their member clubs conduct more than 20,000 events each year and have provided a foundation for the entire bass fishing industry for more than 45 years. TBF founded the Student Angler Federation and the National High School Fishing program in 2008 to promote clean family fun and education through fishing. Visit bassfederation.com or highschoolfishing.org and “LIKE US” on Facebook.

by AnglersChannel

X Zone Lures Partners with Elite Pro Brandon Lester

Beamsville, Ontario – X Zone Lures has partnered with Bassmaster Elite Series angler Brandon Lester of Fayetteville, TN, to create a new Pro Series line of soft plastic baits.

X Zone Lures has helped anglers catch smallmouth for over a decade with its Slammer and Swammer hand-poured baits. Their following in northern fisheries is cult-like. Recently X Zone Lures has been investing in further lure design and production equipment to increase their footprint and impact in the soft plastic market by adding two new series.

X Zone Lures offers three series of baits which are:

Classic hand Pour Series
Pro Series
Crappie / Panfish Series

The Classic Hand Pour Series is the original series of baits offered by X Zone that has provided anglers with many regional tournament wins. Each bait in this series is meticulously produced using the open mold, hand-pour technique, which allows X Zone to produce baits that replicate the subtleties of nature to a high degree. This series of baits currently offers 10 bait designs.

The Pro Series is a serious line of baits that will be expanding throughout the next year and is being developed with the help of Elite Series Pro Brandon Lester. This series will include bait designs that will be applicable to every situation. Holding to its heritage, the X Zone Pro Series baits will be very soft allowing them to provide the longest fish-holding times in the market. This series of baits currently offers 7 bait designs and 11 more bait designs have been approved and will be available in the coming months.

The Crappie / Panfish Series is a line of baits that consists of classic crappie and panfish designs that are sure to bring fish-catching joy to anglers at all levels. This series of baits currently offers 8 bait designs.

The selection of a Bassmaster Elite Series pro to lead the field portion of the bait design process reflects X Zone’s commitment to producing quality lures. Jim Van Ryn, President of X Zone Lures said “We started reading a lot of articles and watching videos and Brandon’s name kept popping up. And each time he was teaching people how to catch more fish and then mentioning the gear he used, including whatever bait was his favorite. We reached out to him to share our appreciation of his efforts and got to talking about baits. Turns out he has a past work history in the injection-molding process and has always been interested in designing his own lures. We put him to work and have really benefited from his expertise.”

Lester jumped in with both feet when given the opportunity to design lures that will work both on the pro tour and for anglers of all levels in North America. “Our first in-person meeting was last winter at the foundry where the plastic moulds would eventually be made so you could say we started at ground zero. X Zone’s commitment to quality production is critical to putting a fish-catching product out into the market. I’m excited about the lures we’ve designed and those that are coming down the line as well,” said Lester.

ABOUT X Zone Lures

X Zone Lures has rich history in meeting the needs of anglers in North America and throughout the world. Their most famous lure design is called the Slammer and has been a secret bait of the pros while fishing the northern lakes. Innovative bait designs and doing things that are subtly different has helped X Zone Lures stand out from the crowd. The company’s newly-redesigned website is www.xzonelures.com.

ABOUT Brandon Lester

A two-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier, Brandon Lester is currently fishing his fourth season on the Bassmaster Elite Series. He resides in Fayetteville, TN and can be found online at www.brandonlesterfishing.com and via Facebook @proanglerbrandonlester or on Instagram @blesterfishing.

by AnglersChannel

Jeff Cannon Wins Kyle Mabry Memorial Event, Classic Champ Lee finishes 2nd!

Finish	Name	Boat	Boat #	Total
	1	Jeff Cannon	188	12.6
	2	Jordan Lee / Will Davenport	15	12.45
	3	Zackery Quinn / Josh Mims	102	12.24
	4	Tommy Bridges / Chris Kitzinger	103	12.02
	5	Chad Bennett / Chas Moore	80	11.6
	6	Mark Cannon / Steve Winslett	118	11.37
	7	Sambo Fish / Johnathan White	51	11.32
	8	John Richardson / Jon Tubbs	183	11.15
	9	Joe Lay / Nick Turner	184	10.7
	10	Zach Martin / Josh Wissinger	115	10.66
	11	Daniel White / Durwood Henderson	34	10.31
	12	Will Bulleu / John Belleu	171	10.17
	13	Nick Harris / Walker Kent	92	10.04
	14	Zeke Gossett / MacKinze Pennington	123	10.03
	15	Brandon McCombs / Evan Nash	53	10.02
	16	Lacey Owens / Travis Wyatt	22	9.95
	17	Dell Oswalt / Andrew Oswalt	157	9.93
	18	Rodney Duncan / Duncan Clardy	160	9.75
	19	Matt Vansant / Jennifer Vansant	181	9.62
	20	Blaine Junkin / Micah Eaterling	87	9.58
	21	Walt White / Kelley White	139	9.55
	22	Marty Giddens / Kim Giddens	112	9.48
	23	Josh Butts / Laura Ann Foshee	147	9.47
	24	Aaron Owens / Josh Holcomb	177	9.44
	25	Chris Mason / Jeremy Mason	159	9.03
	26	Jake Turnbloom / Jared Turnbloom	70	8.99
	27	Kyle Dorsett / Cooper Dorsett	151	8.97
	28	Aaron Smith / Walt Tatum	162	8.95
	29	Lanny Guthrie / Bobby Brown	155	8.85
	30	Matt Herren / Evan Salter	45	8.82
	31	Chris Talton / Logan Talton	60	8.72
	32	Larry Hill / Zach Norton	48	8.7
	33	Chris Rutland / Coby Carden	166	8.68
	34	Randall Carter / Bobby Foshee	145	8.61
	35	Danny Parker / Gage Parker	67	8.6
	36	Kyle Yeilding / Jason Frost	89	8.39
	37	Brandon Smith / Chase Dorsett	140	8.36
	38	Brian Hughes / Heather Parnell	187	8.36
	39	Joseph Webster / Porter Beasley	29	8.25
	40	Derek Hicks / Parker Montgomery	46	8.23
	41	Daniel Hill / Justin Hill	91	8.18
	42	Johnny Jones / Tim Harbison	33	8.14
	43	Blake Nick / Evan Mabrey	5	8.09
	44	Chad Nichols / Tonya Nichols	150	7.98
	45	Timmy Horton / Sam Smith	57	7.97
	46	Stephen Chandler / Logan McEwen	107	7.92
	47	Neal Parker / Tracy Parker	132	7.88
	48	Dustin Connell / Seth Gregory	10	7.77
	49	Barry Wilson / Drake Montgomery	56	7.74
	50	CJ Knight / Howdy Thornburg	85	7.74
	51	Matt Webb / Matt McClung	26	7.71
	52	Scott Canterbury / Cole Davis	25	7.71
	53	Scott Phillips / Greg Phillips	186	7.7
	54	Jeremy Wyatt / Trent Minor	110	7.49
	55	Boyd Hodge / Buddy Coleman	94	7.38
	56	Todd Trammell / Doug Beach	97	7.32
	57	Scott Webb / Heath Waldrop	178	7.29
	58	Richard Wehby / Joseph Wehby	31	7.2
	59	Ryan Davis / Reed Horton	146	7.14
	60	Jeremy Mabrey / Brian Mabrey	44	7.12
	61	Clay Downer / David Nail	3	7.11
	62	Greg Vinson / Ridge Mullis	38	6.94
	63	Jason Shockley / Mike McCullers	41	6.91
	64	Rickey Campbell / Cathy Cox	83	6.62
	65	Stephen Lawrence / Tracie Lawrence	121	6.61
	66	Mark Daniels Jr / Payton Mitchell	30	6.53
	67	Steve Pauley / Nick Frye	109	6.49
	68	Rick Otts	27	6.47
	69	Kelly White / Keri Talley	62	6.28
	70	Luke Andress / Justin Kyle	76	6.2
	71	Josh Dees / Parker Woods	161	6.14
	72	Butch Barger / Butch Barger Sr.	95	6.01
	73	Chris Gregory / Chase Gregory	12	5.8
	74	Jay Cain / Tyler Cain	66	5.79
	75	Jimmy Mason / Jon Raper	55	5.76
	76	Sam Fish / Billy Shavers	101	5.68
	77	Gill Steven / Stephen Goin	9	5.63
	78	Lou Cobb / Jim Bell	69	5.38
	79	Mark Rose / Barrett Thomas	54	5.19
	80	Jeremy Freeman / Trevor Ezell	17	5.01
	81	Waylon Mullis / Cody Ezell	47	4.91
	82	Jay Carroll / Jesse Holcomb	61	4.87
	83	Alen Davenport /Shawn Edmonson	18	4.84
	84	Reed Montgomery	138	4.82
	85	Matt Lee / Bricen Dees	24	4.79
	86	James Schweer / Carson Schweer	164	4.78
	87	Charles Warren / Genie Warren	37	4.71
	88	Chis Clanton / Chelsea Clanton	86	4.28
	89	Franklin Beard /Joey McGinnis	21	4.21
	90	Joe Wester / David Buckelew	78	4.14
	91	Cody Coffee / Heather Holsomback	149	4.06
	92	Michael Smith / Shelby Smith	14	3.4
	93	David Mabrey / Skyler Stevens	6	2.48
	94	Tanya Clark / Morgan Beaver	122	1.51
	95	Kyle Mabrey	1	0
	96	Dale Montgomery / Clay Womble	2	0
	97	David Hicks / Wilson Scott	4	0
	98	Brian Stricklin / Mark Whittaker	7	0
	99	Rob Kyle / Charles Kyle	8	0
	100	Bobby Foster / Todd Rooker	11	0
	101	Jeff Jones /Rory King	13	0
	102	Brad Stevens / Alison Stevens	16	0
	103	Adam Bozarth /Peyton Golden	19	0
	104	Clent Davis / MatthewBell	20	0
	105	Daryl Burchfield / Skip Watts	23	0
	106	Brandon Arnett / Luke Arnett	28	0
	107	Chip Bradley / Jeremy Christian	32	0
	108	Bob Blackerby / Conner Neal	35	0
	109	Jeff Clark / Hunter Odom	36	0
	110	Robert Behrle / Trace Montgomery	39	0
	111	Brian Harbison	40	0
	112	Victoria Allen / Ty Cox	42	0
	113	Shane Welch / Shane Cox	43	0
	114	Ben Etheredge / Gabe Aldridge	49	0
	115	Chris Payne / Zebrah Payne	50	0
	116	Lucas Black / Lee Black	52	0
	117	Russ Lane / Logan Kyle	58	0
	118	Scott Dupriest / James Dupriest	59	0
	119	Roger Perkins / Crystal Patterson	63	0
	120	Wendell Hickman	64	0
	121	Patrick Sylestine / Brad Dill	65	0
	122	Garrett Carter / Landon Tucker	68	0
	123	Evan Robbins / Justin Coker	71	0
	124	Ashley Brasher / Misty Headley	72	0
	125	Wayne McDade / Carson Stringfellow	73	0
	126	Shane Horton / Brandon Horton	74	0
	127	Anthony Goggins / Jennifer Bryant	75	0
	128	John Pollard / Katie Pollard	77	0
	129	Josh Piper / Erin Piper	79	0
	130	Josh Herren / Jacob Herren	81	0
	131	Shane Paul / Jeffery Reeves	82	0
	132	Brian Jones / Barry Jones	84	0
	133	Tony Hubka / Justin Davis	88	0
	134	Johnathan Young / Bo Quinnie	90	0
	135	Dustin Sellers / Dustin Warren	93	0
	136	Hunter McKinley / Aubrey Booth	96	0
	137	Timmy Ward / Hunter Ward	98	0
	138	Alex Sherrill / Reed Parriett	99	0
	139	Brandon McCullough / Brandon Sager	100	0
	140	Bill Weidler / Tucker Weidler	104	0
	141	TJ Justice / Jim Deramus	105	0
	142	Michael Harper / Madison Harper	106	0
	143	Kenny Malone / Tony Harris	108	0
	144	John Cook / Matt Oliver	111	0
	145	Roger Morse / Adam Morse	113	0
	146	Chris Dill / Vern Moody	114	0
	147	Larry Franks Sr	116	0
	148	Tommy Land / Jamie Andrews	117	0
	149	Russ Sapp / Justin Barnes	119	0
	150	Kas Kimbrell / Alex Stinnett	120	0
	151	Jason Quick / Jake Quick	124	0
	152	Taylor Parker / Bailey Boutries	125	0
	153	Tony Mashon / Todd Mashon	126	0
	154	Leland Johnson / Breze Johnson	127	0
	156	Darrel High / Terry Pennington	128	0
	156	David Morrison / Braxton Morrison	129	0
	157	Max Haygood / Ronald Hynson	130	0
	158	Braxton Setzer / Tim Hatcher	131	0
	159	Jon Maddox / Skyler Roy	133	0
	160	Scott Roy / Grant Humphries	134	0
	161	Rickie Harp	135	0
	162	Matthew Pugh / Randy Pugh	136	0
	163	Bryce Cook / Ryan Williamson	137	0
	164	Allen Branham / Brad Norred	141	0
	165	Larry Wallace / Randy Dalton	142	0
	166	Daniel Dillon / Dale Barnett	143	0
	167	Jonathan Stuckey / Bryan Lambert	144	0
	168	Shay Penney / Hunter Penney	148	0
	169	Allen Oliver / Drew Manuel	152	0
	170	Caleb Scott / Christy Scott	153	0
	171	Kevin Cook / Kayla Reynolds	154	0
	172	RJ Seevers / Kasey Seevers	156	0
	173	Heath Rolling / Brad Sanders	158	0
	174	Bryan Asey / Chris Blair	163	0
	175	Willie Kizziah / Brandon Cain	165	0
	176	Ryan Kelley / Ab Argen	167	0
	177	Ben Black / Brian Stiffler	168	0
	178	Barry Isbell / Jackson Isbell	169	0
	179	Jonathan Hammond / Ashley Hammond	170	0
	180	Josh Stracner / Alan Yarborough	172	0
	181	Jamie Higdon / Courtney Higdon	173	0
	182	Ronnie McDonough	174	0
	183	Billy Reynolds / Kane Richardson	175	0
	184	Jeff Goodson	176	0
	185	David Davenport / Blake Davenport	179	0
	186	Dwight Walden / Zack Alre	180	0
	187	Johnathan Henry / Daniel Kent	182	0
	188	Shiloh Crowder / Brian Boyd	185	0
	189	Trent Fondren / Tyler Fondren	189	0
	190	Dillon Falls / Kelcie Falls	190	0

by AnglersChannel

LEGEND® X
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LEGEND TOURNAMENT® INSHORE
FRS, IPC, ART, USA

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AnglersChannel

LEGEND® X FRS, IPC, ART, TET, USA

LEGEND TOURNAMENT® INSHORE FRS, IPC, ART, USA

JOIN THE CIRCUS

Get everything Bass Fishing from Anglers Channel, straight to your inbox.

About

AC

Resources

LEGEND® X
FRS, IPC, ART, TET, USA

LEGEND TOURNAMENT® INSHORE
FRS, IPC, ART, USA