Southern Open On Toho To Be Drastically Different From 2014 Open Last January
Fishing on Florida's Lake Tohopekaliga is going to be a lot different this January than it was a year ago when David Williams finished 3rd in the Bassmaster Southern Open season opener, a giant first step towards his 2014 Southern Open Angler of the Year title.
The situation next week is going to be one of those “that was then, this is now” deals, the Maiden, N.C., pro said.
When I went down there last year I did not have any experience at all with the lake and I only had two days of practice. But a cold front came in and made it tough on everybody else. I fished a little deeper than most everybody else and put together a pretty good pattern.”
Williams weighed in a three-day total of 44.2 pounds in that tournament, more than 6 pounds behind the first place weight of almost 51 pounds. But anglers in the 2015 Southern Open on Toho won't be fishing in frigid temperatures like they did in late January last year, he said.
“The long-range forecasts for this year's tournament is showing it's going to be pretty much in the mid-70s about all week. Coming off a full moon, too, you are liable to see a big bedding fish tournament next week.”
While bass bedding usually means big females up shallow, bed fishing is not Williams' forte, so he will be fishing differently, but more to his strengths.
“I am at a huge disadvantage with bedding fish. I don't have any power poles on my boat, but I can catch them. If I come across a bedding fish I will try to catch it, but I won't be looking for them. I'll be looking for feeding fish – pre-spawners.”
Williams followed his 3rd place at Toho with a 39th place finish in March on Smith Lake, then rebounded strongly with an 8th place finish on Lake Norman, near his home, in October to wrap up the AOY title.
However, while the cold front helped him on Toho back in January, a severe cold front that moved across Lake Norman probably cost him a slot in the field for the 2015 Bassmaster Classic on South Carolina's Lake Hartwell next month. After catching five-bass limits weighing 14 pounds, 1 ounce, and 13 pounds, 5 ounces, the first two days, Williams managed only three keepers weighing 4 pounds, 13 ounces, on Sunday after the Saturday night cold snap.
So, even though the situation on Toho will be drastically different from a year ago, Williams is looking forward to it.
“I always enjoy leaving 20-degree weather and going somewhere that I can enjoy 70-degree weather,” he said.
2015 Bassmaster Southern Open #1
Jan 15-17, 2015
Lake Tohopekaliga
Big Toho Marina
Points Title Down To The Wire In Final Denver Marine Monster Bass Winter Trail Tournament Saturday
The race for the points title in the Denver Marine Monster Bass Invitational Winter Trail could see a major change in the last regular tournament Saturday on Lake Norman.
“This is a double points tournament and we have Scott Beatty and Drew Montgomery tied for first place,” explained tournament director Scott Hyder.
Beatty and Montgomery have 1195 points each, Hyder said. He is also looking for a big tournament this weekend, with with this being the last event on the schedule before the Championship Jan. 24.
“We hope to see some of the guys from the other tournaments around the lake come and fish with us and have a good time,” Hyder said. “We're providing a free coupon for a gallon of oil for any new teams that fish with us and we are waiving the membership fee on the last two tournaments.”
Hyder said the series has averaged from 15 boats up to 22 and 24 boats during the winter trail season, but he hopes to increase that number to 25 to 30 boats per tournament for future Denver Marine tournaments.
“We are setting up our dates for the spring trial to make sure we don't fish on top of anybody else's tournament,” he said. “I guarantee we won't interfere with anybody.”
Hyder said he is also making plans for a really good championship on the 24th.
“We've been putting money back all season so there will be a great payoff for the championship,” he said. And, he added, he is working to make the Denver Marine tournaments even more attractive to the anglers.
“We are going to upgrade the tournaments. We just want fishermen to come fish with us,” he said.
Anglers pay a $20 membership fee to participate in the Denver Marine Monster Bass series and teams pay a $75 entry fee per tournament, which includes $10 for Big Fish. However, the membership fee is waived if the angler bought or buys his boat from Denver Marine.
The tournament series has other bonus money for anglers who qualify. An angler who wins while fishing out of a Denver Marine Ranger Boat, no matter what year, will earn bonus money. Also, anglers fishing out of another make of boat that was bought from Denver marine also can earn some bonus money.
The Ranger Cup is available for anyone in a Ranger Boat 10 years old or newer that was bought from Denver Marine as long as there are 20 or more boats entered in a tournament. Monster Bass Bucks are available for Rangers up to 10 years old purchased from Denver marine – with a 20-boat minimum. The boats must have a Team Denver Marine windshield sticker and bass displayed for both bonus programs.
There is even a special lure program. An angler who wins with a Shane's Finesse Rigg by local luremaker Shane Lehew will earn up to $100 in a regular season tournament and $250 in the year-end championship.
Even the less than lucky anglers have something to shoot for. The team with the lowest weight for a 5-fish limit will win $75 provided by Key Properties.
But, perhaps the biggest bonus is the chance to win an entry into the highly popular Jim Ledbetter Cancer Tournament on Lake Norman next March. The top 10 in points in the Monster Bass series will receive a free entry to the Ledbetter Tournament, plus all the boats will be entered in a drawing for an entry into the Ledbetter Tournament.
The winner of the Jim Ledbetter Cancer Tournament will take home a 2015 Ranger Boat, provided by Denver Marine, Ranger Boats and Evinrude.
Denver Marine Monster Bass Invitational Winter Trail
Sat, Jan 10, 2015
Lake Norman
Midway Marina
Scott Hyder, 704-861-3163
Andy Wicker kicks off 2015 with ABA win on Lake Murray-Full results here!
ABA D-96 Tournament Results
Lake Murray – January 4, 2015
Division 96 2014-15 Season
Group picture from left to right; 1st place & Big Fish winner Andy Wicker of Pomaria, SC / 2nd place Sean Anderson of Leesville, SC / 3rd place Dean Chapman of Leesville, SC / 4th place Rodney Chastain of Fountain Inn, SC / 5th place Kim Neal of Easley, SC / 6th place Jay Treon of Greenwood, SC. Also pictured is Andy Wicker holding two of his fish including the tournament big fish.
First place, Andy Wicker was fishing the middle part of the lake working jigs and crankbaits around rocks and boat docks. Andy had 5 fish weighing 21.09 pounds which included the 7.18 pound big fish of the tournament. That fish is now the D-96 season big fish which puts him in line for the ALX IKOS rod of his choice if it holds up. Andy ran off from the rest of the field today by more than an 8 pound margin and this win gave him a payback of $ 754.
Sean Anderson finished second with 5 fish weighing 12.84 pounds. Sean was fishing a jig around wood on the middle part of the lake. Sean earned $387 for his efforts.
21 anglers fished this Lake Murray qualifying tournament. It was a wet day and fishing was tough for most of us. Only three 5 fish limits were brought to the scales and seven out of the twenty one anglers did not bring fish to the scales. It started out at 66 degrees and ended with the 3pm weigh-in at 68 degrees. It was cloudy all day with a 15 to 25 mph wind out of the SW. Rain started around 10:30am on and off and some scattered thunderstorms started up around noon but passed in an hour’s time. Rain was almost gone by the 3pm weigh-in time. Water temperature was in the low 50’s. The main lake was clear but stained to muddy in the rivers and creeks due all this rain during the week.
Andy Wicker and part of his 21+ Lb winning stringer!
Top 6 at ABA on Murray!!
Here’s how we finished:
1 – Andy Wicker, Pomaria, SC - 5 fish 21.09 lbs. BF 7.18 lbs. 200 pts. (Cell # 803-940-0422)
2 – Sean Anderson, Leesville, SC – 5 fish 12.84 lbs. 199 pts. (Cell # 864-344-3197)
3 – Dean Chapman, Leesville, SC – 4 fish 12.35 lbs. 198 pts.
4 – Rodney Chastain, Fountain Inn, SC – 3 fish 11.69 lbs. 197 pts.
5 – Kim Neal, Easley, SC – 5 fish 9.58 lbs. 196 pts.
6 – Jay Treon, Greenwood, SC – 4 fish 8.66 lbs. 195 pts.
7 – Phil Morris, Saluda, SC – 4 fish 8.18 lbs. 194 pts.
8 – Steve Wicker, Pomaria, SC – 4 fish 7.65 lbs. 193 pts.
9 – Tommy Lindler, Lexington, SC – 3 fish 5.86 lbs. 192 pts.
10 – Curtis Temples, Saluda, SC – 2 fish 3.63 lbs. 191 pts.
11 – John Stevenson, Minnesota – 1 fish 2.68 lbs. 190 pts.
12 – Gene Parker, Asheville, NC - 1 fish 2.17 lbs. 189 pts.
13 – Mitchell Kneece, Saluda, SC – 1 fish 1.55 lbs. 188 pts.
7 anglers did not weigh in fish - 50 pts.
Money
Andy Wicker – 1st place plaque $539 / Big Fish plaque $105 / 1st place option $110 Total - $754
Sean Anderson – 2nd place plaque $317 / 2nd place option $70 Total - $387
Dean Chapman – 3rd place plaque $101
Rodney Chastain – 4th place & ALX hat
Kim Neal – 5th place Parker Spinnerbait
Jay Treon – 6th place ALX hat
D-96 2015 Angler of the Year
(Top 3 in points)
Sean Anderson – 799 pts.
Gene Parker - 782
(tie)Andy Lake & Curtis Temples – 779 pts.
ALX Rod Big Fish Leader for 2015
Andy Wicker – 7.18 lbs. Lake Murray, January 4, 2015
Larew signs Wheeler
TULSA, Okla. (Jan. 7, 2015) - Gene Larew Lures announces the addition of bass professional Jacob Wheeler to its pro staff, bringing together one of the oldest names in soft-plastic lures with one of the youngest million-dollar earners along the top tournament trails.
Wheeler, 24, has amassed more than one million dollars in tournament earnings in his first four years as a pro. His accomplishments include an Ultimate Match Fishing Championship, 2011 FLW BFL All-American championship, 2012 FLW Forrest Wood Cup championship, 2014 Bassmaster BASSfest title and seven other top-10 finishes.
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Jacob Wheeler is off to a good start with Larew baits, catching his biggest bass ever this week, a 12 1/2 pounder, while punching a Biffle Bug Jr. around pads
in Florida. (Click to view/download hi-res image)
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"Jacob has a lot of reasons to be sporting that grin of his that's as big as the flat bill on his cap; he's had an amazing start to his career," said Larew owner Chris Lindenberg. "While we of course like what we see in his fishing skills, I can honestly say that we like even more the-Jacob-Wheeler person we've come to know better in recent months.
"He's a humble young man that is quick to credit his success to life-lessons learned from a hardworking family that struggled to make it through tough times, and who's been giving back ever since to his loving parents who taught him to fish. His first personal 'splurging' after the $100,000 All-American win, was his buying himself two pairs of Nike tennis shoes instead of just the one he needed."
The Indianapolis angler said he believes it's his strong family culture that led him to Larew. "As a bass fishing fanatic, I knew about Larew, and of course the brand's relationship with legendary angler Tommy Biffle, but I didn't know the folks behind the company name," Wheeler explained.
"When Upshaw (fellow FLW pro angler Andrew Upshaw) introduced me to Chris and his team at ICAST last summer, I felt right at home. Larew is a great fit for me and my fishing style."
As a result of the partnership agreement, Larew branding will have a prominent place on Wheeler's hat, jersey and boat wrap.
Wheeler visited the Larew manufacturing facility in Tulsa, Okla., last month to sign the deal. He took advantage of the trip to further supplement his Larew soft-plastic assortment that will be going with him to the 2015 Bassmaster Classic, to be held on South Carolina's Lake Hartwell in February.
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Larew's Chris Lindenberg (left) and pro angler Jacob Wheeler
check out Larew's flagship lures, the Salt Craw, fresh out of the
mold at the company's headquarters in Tulsa, Okla.
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"Larew has a history of great products, but what they have introduced through innovation in recent years is proof that these guys really 'get it.' As a result, I'm expecting great things to continue to come and a shared success throughout my 2015 season and beyond," Wheeler said.
Larew's original Salt Craw remains a staple in the company's product lineup. More recent introductions include the Biffle Bug, TattleTail Worm, Rattlin' CRAWler, Sweet Swimmers and Rally Grub.
Wheeler joins a Larew national pro staff that consists of Biffle, Upshaw, Gerald Brown, Fred Roumbanis and John Murray.
"We have a great pro staff and Jacob is a solid and proud addition to our team. Every one of these guys can catch 'em and is a threat to win any given event. What scares me most is that they all are also practical jokesters. Keep an eye on these guys in 2015," Lindenberg added.
For more information on Larew products and pros, visit www.GeneLarewLures.com.
Bob’s Machine Shop Is Pleased To Announce The Signing Of Bassmaster Elite Series Angler, Brandon Card
“Ever since Randy Howell showed me his blue Action Series hydraulic plate, I knew I had to get a custom painted plate to match my Suzuki 250SS. Customizing boats is the big thing now. I want everything on my boat to match, so I chose a matte black powder coated 10” Action Series plate to go with my matte black Suzuki, Power Poles, and boat wrap. Bob’s plates come in any color and also come in hydro-graphic color schemes like camo and carbon fiber.”
Bob’s Machine Shop sales and marketing manager, Steven Pelini, said, “We are very excited to partner with Brandon because of his track record on and off the water. He is a hard worker and great promoter.” Brandon’s 10” Action Series plate will take the look and performance of his Suzuki 250SS and Triton 21 TrX to the next level.”
“My 2015 boat is rigged and I have already been testing my Bob’s plate. I can honestly say that my hole-shot is much faster and the plate changes heights quicker than other hydraulic plates that I have used in the past,” added Brandon.
For more information on Bob’s Machine Shop and Brandon Card, follow them on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/Bobsmachine and https://www.facebook.com/BrandonCardFishing
Bob’s Machine Shop Is Pleased To Announce The Signing Of Bassmaster Elite Series Angler, Brandon Card
“Ever since Randy Howell showed me his blue Action Series hydraulic plate, I knew I had to get a custom painted plate to match my Suzuki 250SS. Customizing boats is the big thing now. I want everything on my boat to match, so I chose a matte black powder coated 10” Action Series plate to go with my matte black Suzuki, Power Poles, and boat wrap. Bob’s plates come in any color and also come in hydro-graphic color schemes like camo and carbon fiber.”
Bob’s Machine Shop sales and marketing manager, Steven Pelini, said, “We are very excited to partner with Brandon because of his track record on and off the water. He is a hard worker and great promoter.” Brandon’s 10” Action Series plate will take the look and performance of his Suzuki 250SS and Triton 21 TrX to the next level.”
“My 2015 boat is rigged and I have already been testing my Bob’s plate. I can honestly say that my hole-shot is much faster and the plate changes heights quicker than other hydraulic plates that I have used in the past,” added Brandon.
For more information on Bob’s Machine Shop and Brandon Card, follow them on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/Bobsmachine and https://www.facebook.com/BrandonCardFishing
Page, Murphy win IFA championship and a Ranger boat on Hildebrandt Drum Roller
In a dramatic, come from behind victory, the Florida team of Rick Murphy and Geoffrey Page won the 2014 IFA Redfish Championship in Houma, LA, October 25, 2014.
The duo traveled more than 100 miles by water each day through Louisiana’s brackish bayous to reach their destination in Venice. According to Murphy, of Homestead, Fla., the fish were concentrated on a particular shoreline that offered an abundance of forage.
“There were five different species of bait(fish) literally on one shoreline,” stated Murphy. “We knew there was so much protein there, that if we could catch a (regulation) fish, he was going to be really big!”
Page, from Sarasota, Fla., said, “The Hildebrandt Drum Roller ® spinnerbait paired with a BassAssassin soft-plastic trailer was the key to making them bite.”
Murphy and Page amassed a 4-fish, 2-day weight of 35.29 pounds. By winning the IFA Championship, the pair took home a new Ranger ® 220 Bahia/Yamaha® 150 package valued at $41,000, plus $3,990 in Anglers Advantage cash.
Hildebrandt’s Drum Roller ® was designed by professional angler, Bernie Schultz, also from Florida. Schultz claims the lure’s unique tin construction is the reason it’s so effective. “The Drum Roller is formed using pure tin, which weighs approximately 2/3rds as much as lead of the same volume.” That makes a huge difference when you’re fishing in super shallow water...places where red drum (redfish) frequently feed.
“By combining its unique head design with the right colored soft-plastic trailer and Premium Hildebrandt Blades ®, the Drum Roller’s flash and profile will match just about anything a redfish feeds on.”
Humminbird adds new regions to Lake Master coverage
EUFAULA, AL (January 6, 2015) – Humminbird is now ready to bring the LakeMaster experience to more anglers across the U.S. than ever before. Our survey team has expanded the High Definition map coverage into the MidAtlantic and NorthEast regions with new, Version 1 Editions for anglers.
In addition to these two regions, we've added a new PLUS version of these products as well. The PLUS series allows for aerial image overlay on High Definition waters in addition to all of the LakeMaster features. Now you have the ability to use quality aerial photography to view the entry and exits of creek channels, see how far a reef or weed line extends, and pick out shallow water rock piles, steep drop-offs or other features of the lake you've been missing from traditional maps.
- Contours for over 100 total lakes, rivers and reservoirs in DE, MD, NC, SC, VA, & WV
- 42 High Definition water bodies, including several sections of the Ohio River
- Updated coastline for the entire region
- i-Pilot® Link™ Compatible
Includes these highly requested water bodies in stunning High Definition: Strom Thurmond, GA/SC, Lake Murray, SC, Smith Mountain, VA, Kerr/Buggs, NC/VAGaston, NC, Wylie, NC, Norman, NC, and Shearon Harris, NC. Also, contours for Chesapeake Bay, MD and Delaware Bay, DE.
Visit MidAtlantic States Edition for more information on product features, images, complete lake list, lake elevations, GPS compatibility and more.
MidAtlantic States PLUS Edition
- Contours for over 100 total lakes, rivers and reservoirs in DE, MD, NC, SC, VA, & WV
- 42 High Definition water bodies, including several sections of the Ohio Rivers
- Updated coastline for the entire region
- i-Pilot® Link™ Compatible
- PLUS allows for 3 layers of aerial image overlay on High Definition waters: Satellite Only, Satellite + Land, Satellite + Contours
Includes these highly requested water bodies in stunning High Definition: Strom Thurmond, GA/SC, Lake Murray, SC, Smith Mountain, VA, Kerr/Buggs, NC/VA, Gaston, NC, Wylie, NC, Norman, NC and Shearon Harris, NC. Also, contours for Chesapeake Bay, MD and Delaware Bay, DE.
Visit MidAtlantic States PLUS Edition for information on product features, images, complete lake list, lake elevations, GPS compatibility and more.
- Contours for over 1,500 total lakes, rivers and reservoirs in CT, MA, ME, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, & VT
- 115 High Definition water bodies
- Updated coastline for the entire region
- i-Pilot® Link™ Compatible
Includes these highly requested water bodies in stunning High Definition: Zoar, CT, Lake, Lillinonah, CT, Winnepesaukee, NH, Winnesquam, NH, Webster, MA, Androscoggin, ME, China, ME, Cobboseecontee, ME, Hopatcong, NJ, Conesus, NY, Johnsons Pond, RI, Wallenpaupack, PA, Dunmore Lake, VT and contours for all of Lake Ontario.
Visit NorthEast States Edition for information on product features, images, complete lake list, GPS compatibility and more.
- Contours for over 1500 total lakes, rivers and reservoirs in CT, MA, ME, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, & VT
- 115 High Definition water bodies
- Updated coastline for the entire region
- i-Pilot® Link™ Compatible
- PLUS allows for 3 layers of aerial image overlay on High Definition waters: Satellite Only, Satellite + Land, Satellite + Contours
Includes these highly requested water bodies in stunning High Definition: Zoar, CTLake Lillinonah, CT, Winnepesaukee, NH, Winnesquam, NH, Webster, MA, Androscoggin, ME, China, ME, Cobboseecontee, ME, Hopatcong, NJ, Conesus, NY, Johnsons Pond, RIWallenpaupack, PA
Dunmore Lake, VT and contours for all of Lake Ontario.
Visit NorthEast States PLUS Edition for information on product features, images, complete lake list, GPS compatibility and more.
For more information visit humminbird.com, contact Humminbird, 678 Humminbird Lane, Eufaula, AL 36027, or call 800-633-1468.
Top This re-ups with FLW Tour Pro Kevin Stewart
Top This (Premier Accessory Outfitters) today announced a sponsorship agreement for 2015 with FLW Tour Pro Kevin Stewart of Elk Grove, California. This is the 4th consecutive year these two have combined forces. Top This (Premier Accessory Outfitters) will remain Kevin's title sponsor.
Kevin Stewart has been fishing competitively on the west coast for years in a quest to become one of the nation’s best anglers. In 2013 Kevin made the move towards his longtime dream to compete on a national level with the FLW Tour. Two years of planning to compete across the country was crucial to the success of such a venture. “I made every effort to develop a plan that would take me into my first 2 years of competition” says Kevin. As a small business owner he realized making a business plan for competitive fishing would prove to be as important as developing one for any business.
“I could not take on such an endeavor without the complete support of my family and my sponsors. I wish I could express into words how thankful I am of all the great people that surround and support me”, says Kevin. His heartfelt appreciation for all his supporters could not go unnoticed.
The company supporting Kevin, Top This (Premier Accessory Outfitters) is a retail store in Grass Valley, California. specializing in outfitting vehicles . With such a wide variety of products available, Top This equips everything from Trucks, SUV's, Jeeps, Cars, Boats and Recreational Vehicles. “We have something for everyone from the best manufacturers in the industry.” says Chuck Kavros, President of Danisti Inc., the parent company of Top This.
Over the past 4 years, Top This has developed a name for themselves in the bass tournament scene providing quality products to make the competitive angler more efficient and better organized. Chuck states, “We are proud to support and participate in the competitive fishing industry. We look forward to our ongoing partnership with Kevin as part of the Top This Team."
Abu Garcia Signs-On With Aba
Athens, Ala. (January 6, 2015) - American Bass Anglers (ABA) announced today that Abu Garcia has signed a multiyear sponsorship agreement with American Bass Anglers. Introduced in Sweden in 1941, Abu Garcia has emerged as a premium global fishing brand, producing some of today’s most advanced fishing gear. Abu Garcia is the official and exclusive Rod and Reel of American Bass Anglers and all of its tours.
“ABA takes great pride in working with premium brands and Abu Garcia is as iconic as it is a premium brand. Weekend anglers worldwide have been using Abu Garcia reels for many years. When the Ambassadeur® reel was introduced it changed the way everyone fished. The new Revo® and Revo® Beast reels have taken the industry by storm and the recent re-launch of the Swedish-made round reels Record, C4, C3, Pro Rocket and Morrum all embody the durability and engineering the weekend angler has come to rely on,” said Morris Sheehan, President of American Bass Anglers, Inc.
As part of this sponsorship Abu Garcia will be integrated into the sponsorship platforms and footprint at Weekend Bass Series events, American Fishing Tour Championship, 100% Plus Team Trail events, American Couples Series Championship and Military Team Event.
“The unique structure that ABA has fostered for the weekend angler is an exceptional platform and we are excited to be involved. Our partnership with ABA lets us get more engaged with local tournaments and allows us to directly connect with our local tournament anglers,” said Andrew Wheeler, Brand Business Manager for Abu Garcia.
For more information about ABU Garcia visit your local outdoor retailer or visit www.Abugarcia.com
Oltorik Brothers Of Daytona State College Win Carhartt Bassmaster College Southern Regional On St Johns River
Brothers Thomas (left) and James Oltorik of Daytona State College win the Carhartt Bassmaster College Southern Regional held Jan. 3-5 on the St. Johns River out of Flagler County, Fla., with a three-day total weight of 42 pounds, 6 ounces.
FLAGLER COUNTY, Fla. — Thomas Oltorik III and James Oltorik of Daytona State College won the 2015 Carhartt Bassmaster College Series Southern Regional on the St. Johns River Monday with a three-day total of 42 pounds, 6 ounces.
The Oltorik brothers started the event Saturday with a weight of 15-9, which landed them in second place at the end of the opening round. Things only went up from there for Daytona State as they took the lead on Sunday and kept the lead Monday on the final day, winning the event by 1 pound even.
“I’m absolutely speechless,” Thomas said. “Today was an amazing day. We had a lot of little fish biting all day long. I was just sitting there praying to God, just one big one. And then right there at the end ‘kaboom,’ she ate it. I set the hook and put it in the boat.”
That big one weighed about 7 pounds and definitely made the difference for Daytona State, who bested the runner-ups from Clemson University, Baylor Ronemus and Cole Tinsley, by 1 pound.
Today started much like yesterday for Daytona State. After about 15 minutes on their starting spot in Crescent Lake, Thomas and James knew it was time to make the decision to run down. The wind was blowing a sustained 15 mph, and their offshore spot was almost impossible to fish thoroughly. They chose to strap everything down and make the three-hour run south past Lake George where they caught their entire final round weight of 13-4.
Ronemus and Tinsley were the second-best team to compete on the St. Johns River this week with 41-6. Clemson bested Auburn University’s CJ Knight and Tim Ward by 1 ounce to clinch second and bump Auburn to third. Cody Spears and Justin Mahon of Florida State University finished fourth with 40-0, and Austin Littrell and Ben Wall of Auburn University brought in the biggest bag of the final day, weighing 18-8, to round out the Top 5 with a total of 39-8.
The largest fish weighed in across all three days of competition belonged to Nathan Felker and Joe Bates of Georgia Southern with their 10-7 monster from Day 2.
The Bass Pro Shops Nitro Big Bag award went to Spears and Mahon of Florida State University, who on Day 2 brought in the largest single-day stringer of the tournament weighing 19-15.
The winning team also earned the Livingston Lures Leader award worth $500 in Livingston Lures product.
In all, 18 teams qualified for the Carhartt Bassmaster College Series National Championship, which will be held later this summer.
For a complete list of the results as well as photos, videos and other stories from the event, visit Bassmaster.com.
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Carhartt Bassmaster College Series - Southern
1/3/2015 - 1/5/2015 St. Johns River - Bull Creek Fish Camp - Flagler County, FL STANDINGS BOATER DAY 3 Today's Activity Accumulative
Name # Fish # Live Lbs - Oz # Fish # Live Lbs - Oz 1 Thomas Oltorik III - James Oltorik Daytona State College 5 5 13- 4 15 14 42- 6 2 Baylor Ronemus - Cole Tinsley Clemson University 5 5 13- 6 15 15 41- 6 3 CJ Knight - Tim Ward Auburn University 5 5 16-13 15 15 41- 5 4 Cody Spears - Justin Mahon Florida State University 5 4 15- 1 13 11 40- 0 5 Austin Littrell - Ben Wall Auburn University 5 5 18- 8 15 14 39- 8 6 Frankie Appaluccio - Logan Shaddix University of Alabama 5 5 17- 7 14 14 39- 3 7 Patrick Walters - Josh Rennebaum University of South Carolina 5 5 13-10 15 15 37- 6 8 Murphy Klumpp - Lucas Brown Auburn University 5 5 16-13 13 13 37- 3 9 Taylor Minick - Micheal Harbach Valdosta State University 5 5 11-15 13 13 34- 6 10 John Duarte - Jonathan Kelley Coastal Carolina University 5 5 10- 3 15 15 34- 1 11 Hunter Gibson - Caiden Sinclair University of Alabama 5 5 9- 4 15 15 31-14 12 Jacob Reome - Matthew Garvin Clemson University 4 4 5- 9 14 14 31- 4 13 Anderson Aldag - Lee Mattox University of Alabama 5 5 10-11 15 15 30- 9 14 Josh Oliver - Nathan George Gadsden State Community College 5 5 9- 2 15 15 30- 4 15 Ross Burns - Richard Nesbitt Clemson University 4 4 7- 0 14 13 29-12 16 Ross Dove - Richie Young Emmanuel College 2 2 4-14 11 11 27-10 17 Kevin Lucas - Kyle Stafford U. of Central Florida 2 2 4- 9 12 12 25- 0 18 Grant Galloway - Joe Marty Mississippi State University 1 1 1-10 8 7 22- 9 19 Justin Rivers - CJ Waters Wallace State CC Hanceville 1 1 0-14 9 9 21-12 20 Lealand Johnson - Drew Grow University of Alabama 0 0 0- 0 8 8 21- 1 21 Andrew Warbington - Taylor Teague University of West Alabama 6 6 19- 6 22 Ben Stone - Collin Smith Lander University 10 10 19- 1 23 John Davis - Payton McGinnis University of Alabama 10 10 18-10 24 John Maner - Colt Kelso U. of North Alabama 10 10 18- 7 25 Tom Brewbaker - Gettys Brannon University of South Carolina 10 10 18- 6 26 Justin Lynch - Tom Catania U. of North Alabama 8 8 17-15 27 Kirk Savage - William Blount U. of South Alabama 6 6 17-10 28 Thompson Fuller - Trey Fyock University of Montevallo 9 9 17-10 29 Michael Martindill - Evan French U. of North Florida 10 10 17- 7 30 Adam Acker - Christi Rolin Georgia State University 10 10 17- 6 31 Cody Harrison - Clint Frederick U. of North Alabama 6 6 17- 0 32 Colby Smith - Adam Hall Gadsden State Community College 9 9 16-15 33 Justin Singleton - Zac Bennett Georgia College & State University 7 7 16-14 34 Trent Palmer - Dean Mullett Georgia Southern 6 6 16-13 35 Nathan Felker - Joe Bates Georgia Southern 5 5 16-12 36 Jordan Heath - Chapman Curtis Auburn University 9 9 16- 8 37 Dakota Garner - Sawyer Haney Northeast Alabama Community College 7 7 16- 0 38 Austin Bell - Jerod Gadd Polk State College 9 9 15-14 39 Travis King - Madison Webb University of Montevallo 10 9 15-12 40 Austin Archer - Chase Chastain Jacksonville State University 8 8 15- 8 41 Myles Bowen - Nick Gresens Georgia College & State University 9 9 15- 6 42 Shelby Concon - Grant Bergeron University of Florida 9 9 15- 2 43 Mitchell Jennings - Kendall Andrews Auburn University 9 8 14- 9 44 Brad Davis - Bo Jones Columbus State University 8 8 14- 8 45 Wade Griffith - Bryan Spellman Gadsden State Community College 10 10 14- 8 46 Justin Brown - Scott Swatscheno U. of Central Florida 10 10 14- 3 47 Mitch Brumbeloe - Ashley Robinson University of West Alabama 8 8 14- 1 48 Austin Herring - Tanner Ellis University of Montevallo 7 7 13-15 49 Landon Tucker - Grant Colson Valdosta State University 5 5 13-14 50 Sandy Teaf - Steven Barker U. of Central Florida 9 9 13- 5 51 Shawn Callahan - Brian Sweeney U. of South Carolina 10 10 13- 5 52 Tyler Moody - Austin Maynard UAB 5 5 13- 4 53 Eric Fisher - Jake Akin Georgia Highlands College 9 5 13- 4 54 Hunter Bozeman - Dylan DeForrest Florida Gulf Coast University 9 9 13- 1 55 Travis Johns - MJ Vihnanek U. of South Alabama 9 9 12-11 56 Isaac Payne - Connor Mannina Savannah College of Art & Design 6 6 12- 4 57 Hampton Anderson - Chris Blanchette University of South Carolina 9 9 12- 4 58 Phillip Heyde - Kevin Hires Seminole State College 6 6 11-15 59 Hunter McKamey - Kyle Oliver U. of Central Florida 8 8 11-12 60 Joshua Butts - Colin Morrow Wallace State CC Hanceville 8 7 11-12 61 Alan Simmons - Bradley DeLeon Auburn University 5 5 11- 7 62 Nathan Lain - Grayson Lambert University of Florida 7 7 11- 4 63 Lucas Johnson - Anthony McCullough Georgia Regents University 6 6 11- 1 64 Joe Nakai - Blake Burtram U. of North Alabama 5 5 11- 1 65 Adam Neill - Mitch Naler University of Alabama 6 6 10-14 66 Shane Haas - Matthew Cantrell University of Florida 7 7 10-14 67 John Bryant - Trey Coile University of Alabama 7 7 10-11 68 Ethan Wages - U. of South Alabama 8 8 10-10 69 Jesse James - Nolan Vinson Troy University 7 7 10- 7 70 Clark Lawrence - Ethan Weeks Mississippi State University 4 4 9-10 71 Brad Vice - Austin Mize U. of North Alabama 5 5 9- 9 72 Jeff Clayton IV - Cody Peak Mississippi State University 5 5 9- 5 73 James Altmann - Mark Blanar University of Florida 5 5 9- 1 74 Konner Kennedy - Ethan Flack University of Alabama 5 5 9- 0 75 Zachary Edmunds - Nelson Madruga U. of Central Florida 7 7 8-14 76 Ryan Darracott - Zachary Darracott U. of North Alabama 5 5 8- 6 77 Dawson Lenz - Evan Horne University of North Alabama 5 5 7-13 78 Garrett Roberts - Ethan Hayes Auburn University 5 5 7- 7 79 Scott Cain - Tyler Teal UAB 3 3 7- 5 80 Seth Hanchey - Gunnar McCollough Troy University 3 3 7- 3 81 Alex Parker - Hunter Franklin U. of South Alabama 6 6 6-13 82 Brett Webster - Ryan Williams U. of North Alabama 3 3 6- 6 83 Cody Kennedy - Glenn Kennedy Calhoun Comm College 3 3 6- 3 84 Wesley Griner - Dalton Dedge Darton State College 5 5 5-15 85 Alex Schieman - Ryan Stewart Georgia College & State University 5 5 5-13 86 Charles Conger - Hunter Branham Southern Polytechnic College 6 6 5- 5 87 Brett Nelson - Chase Turner Wallace State CC Hanceville 3 3 5- 4 88 Hayden Tilley - Cole Gifford Northeast Alabama Community College 2 2 5- 3 89 Andrew Cannon - Drew Herold U. of North Alabama 4 4 5- 1 90 Andrew Suggs - Chase Coker Darton State College 3 3 5- 0 91 Zane Xanders - A.J. Hoath Florida Gulf Coast University 3 3 4- 7 92 Matt Oliver - Justin Woodruff UAB 3 3 4- 4 93 Jon Feazell - Alex Bell UAB 1 1 4- 4 94 Adam Clark - Matt Cagle Wallace State CC Hanceville 2 2 4- 2 95 Cale Mathis - Jonathan McLendon Abraham Baldwin Ag College 3 3 4- 2 96 Denver McLain - Benjamin Chandler Abraham Baldwin Ag College 1 1 4- 1 97 Brady Bowden - Landon Olson Faulkner University 4 4 3-15 98 Makenzie Henson - Ryan Hayse U. of North Alabama 1 1 3-10 99 Jacob Burns - Wesley Minor UAB 4 4 3- 6 100 Nathan Martin - Andrew Tate U. of North Alabama 3 3 3- 5 101 Philippe Brown - Kent Green AUM 1 1 3- 4 102 Hunter Bechtel - Hunter Waller Abraham Baldwin Ag College 2 2 3- 2 103 Toby Roach - Caleb Whitehead Mississippi State University 2 2 2-15 104 Kenneth Ryan - Adam Kemp University of Florida 2 2 2-13 105 Kenny Johnson - Brandon Black University of West Georgia 2 2 2-12 106 Andrew Himmelreich - Ethan Barrett Young Harris College 2 2 2- 7 107 Timothy Parker - Hunter Bland University of Florida 2 2 2- 3 108 Kolby Bowers - Alex Oliver Abraham Baldwin Ag College 1 1 1- 8 109 Kyle Alford - Nathan Woodruff Mississippi State University 1 1 1- 3 110 Luke Ferguson - Polk State College 1 1 1- 2 111 Michael Skat - Kaitlyn Nardi Seminole State College 1 1 1- 1 112 Austin Handley - Alex Wolfe UAB 1 1 1- 0 113 Samuel Bass - Logan Elton Florida State University 1 1 0-15 114 Colby Harville - Hunter Haney U. of North Alabama 1 1 0-14 115 Drew Wilson - Kendall Pierce UAB 1 1 0-13 116 Tanner Malone - Logan Smith Mississippi State University 1 1 0-12 117 Caleb Barksdale - Ean Miles Northeast Alabama Community College 0 0 0- 0 117 Brandon Easterling - Daniel Perry University of Montevallo 0 0 0- 0 117 Layton Jones - Tyler Schmidt Georgia Southern 0 0 0- 0 117 Skylar Lansdell - Matthew Hand AUM 0 0 0- 0 117 Blake McDaniel - Chet Reaves Auburn University 0 0 0- 0 117 Hunter Reeves - Tucker Hill Georgia Southern 0 0 0- 0 117 Taylor Thompson - Hunter Coppolino Abraham Baldwin Ag College 0 0 0- 0 117 Stephen Young - Zach Hitt Reinhardt University 0 0 0- 0 BIG BASS TOTALS Day Name City,State Lbs-Oz Day # Fish # Live Lbs-Oz # Limits 1 Lealand Johnson - Drew Grow Huntsville, AL 7-15 2 Nathan Felker - Joe Bates Suwanne, GA 10- 7 1 367 365 691-12 42 3 Austin Littrell - Ben Wall Moulton, AL 6- 9 2 343 333 698- 0 46 3 79 78 200- 9 13 |
Celebrate 2015 with a New Ranger Z521 C with the new Evinrude G2-check it out with us!!
Ranger Boats sales Manager Keith Daffron takes us on walk around of the new Ranger Z521 C with the G2 Evinrude E-Tec on the back.......this is one slick machine!!!
Okeechobee Primed For Good Fishing As Gator Division Bfl Kicks Off Season Saturday
Lake Okeechobee is in prime shape for the season opener of the Walmart BFL Gator Division season Saturday, said Juan Ruiz, points champion for the division in 2014.
“I expect a lot of limits, probably a half dozen, maybe a dozen bags from 19 pounds to the high 20s. I figure it will take high 20-pound bag to win it,” said Ruiz who took the points title over Mike Keyso Jr., by 3 points in 2014. I think in the later tournaments, in February and April, we will see some mid to high 30-pound bags,” he added
“The lake is as healthy as I have seen it in the last 15 years,” Ruiz said. “There is a lot of grass, the water is up and there are a lot of fish.”
Healthy bait populations usually mean healthy fish populations and Ruiz said both the shad and shiner populations are healthy as are the bluegills and specs. That could translate into even heavier limits when the spawning fish move in. Although bass in the Florida lakes typically spawn much earlier than those in lakes just a little north of the state, the big push to the banks has not yet occurred in Okeechobee, Ruiz said.
“We are still waiting for a big wave of spawners to push up. They are kind of trickling in,” he said. “That could happen by the time of the Rayovac tournament in a couple of weeks. If we get some cold fronts that really sets them up. Winter down here has been pretty mild and there are still a lot of fish offshore.”
Ruiz said Saturday's tournament will be typical pre-spawn fishing.
“You will be able to catch them on a swim bait, a Senko, pitching and flipping, pretty much a smorgasbord of ways. You can pretty much catch them how you want to fish,” said Ruiz, who lives just 35 minutes from the lake in West Palm Beach. “I'll be either casting a swimbait like an Easy Swimmer or a Fat A or I'll go flip hydrilla mats.
Ruiz said consistency was the key to winning his first BFL points title in the Gator Division last year.
“I had a pretty good start in the first tournament with a top 10,” he said, “then I did not have too bad of a bomb or too high of a finish the rest of the year, just consistent.”
His approach, he said, is to just go catch that one good fish to anchor his limit.
“For me Okeechobee fishing is to get that one good bite, then get a limit of 2- to 3-pounders. If you weigh in 15 to 16 pounds you will probably have a top 3 or top 4 finish,” he said.
“I am not a limit fisherman. I just go and flip and try to get a good one. Sometimes I hit one, but a lot of times I strike out, but I am okay with that. That's just how I do it.”
Walmart Bass Fishing League - Gator Division
Sat, 2015-01-03
Lake Okeechobee
Roland Martin Marina & Resort
Fishing On Rayburn Should Improve For Aba Weekend Series Se Texas Tournament
Fishing has been tough on Sam Rayburn recently, said a local veteran guide, but it could start to get a little better by the time of the American Bass Anglers Weekend Series Southeast Texas Division season opener Saturday, Jan. 10.
“Fishing has been kind of slow,” said veteran guide Lynn Atkinson of Zavalla, Texas, hardly a stone's throw from the lake. “The shallow bite has been really tough and the deep bite has been really tough.”
Atkinson, who operates the Reel um N Guide Service on the lake, said the water temperature has been down in the low 50s for the past week.
“Once the fish adjust to the temperature the bite should pick up a little bit,” he said, “but we got about two inches of rain and we are expecting some more, so that is going to cool the water down again from any warm-up.”
But, he added another natural event could provide some relief for the WBS anglers next weekend.
“They fish usually move in around mid-January and when we get the full moon they should start moving up a little more,” he said. “The fish will be on the major points, working their way back in. Some of the big males will come up and they will be looking for a place.”
When they do, he said, the Rat-L-Trap fished along the grass line where the depth drops down from 3 to about 9 feet will be the key weapon for anglers.
“The Rat-L-Trap bite should be starting pretty good and that is the dominant bite on Rayburn. Red-colored Traps are the top lures, but sometimes you can get a good bite on a different-colored Trap. I fished with a blueback Trap one time and out-caught everybody 10 to one.
For information on fishing Sam Rayburn with Atkinson check out his website: http://www.reelumn.com/. To contact Atkinson, call him at (979) 220-0251(cell) or (936) 897-3400 (home), or email him at: [email protected].
The SE Texas Division schedule includes Jan. 10, Feb. 14 and March 14, all on Sam Rayburn out of Umphrey Pavilion, April 11 on Toledo Bend out of Fin & Feather Resort, with the championship Sept. 26-27 back on Sam Rayburn out of Umphrey Pavilion.
American Bass Anglers has announced updates to the Weekend Bass Series schedules and a rules clarification for the 2015 season.
Highlights for the 2015 Season:
Increased Payout: For 2015 the Weekend Bass Series will offer guaranteed first place boater money of:
- $3,000.00 for 50 boats or more
- $4,000.00 for 75 boats or more
- $5,000.00 for 100 boats or more
Co-anglers will also get the same guarantee first place money of:
- $1,500.00 for 50 boats or more
- $2,000.00 for 75 boats or more
- $2,500.00 for 100 boats or more
In addition, 20% of the field will receive a check in each event.
The rules change involves the controversial Alabama Rig. Starting this year ABA will prohibit the use of the Alabama Rig/Umbrella on all Weekend Bass Series events.
American Bass Anglers Weekend Series – Southeast Texas Division
Sat, Jan 10, 2015
Sam Rayburn
Umphrey Family Pavilion
The 'early Fish' Could Be Key To Lake Murray Aft Tournament Sunday
Andy Wicker of Prosperity, SC
The early bird may get the worm but the angler who catches the early fish will probably win the American Fishing Tour South Carolina Division tournament on Lake Murray Sunday.
That's the opinion of local angler Andy Wicker of Prosperity who will fish the AFT-SC series this year, and that, said Wicker, is how he plans to fish Sunday's tournament.
“If Murray is like it has been the last two or three years, the big fish on Murray don't abide by the same rules as bass on other lakes,” said Wicker who was a primary angler on the Clemson University Fishing Team while he was earning his engineering degree. “A lot of times water temperature is a big factor on when the big females move up shallow. They move up when you get a little warming trend in February or March.”
But that does not necessarily apply to the big females in Lake Murray, Wicker said.
“The big fish on Murray are not on the same calendar as in other lakes. By the end of January and into February they start biting. It does not matter what the weather is, when those big ones decide to move up they move.”
But that is later in the month. How about this first weekend of January 2015?
“I don't know about this weekend, but usually this time of year is when they are starting to transition a little more into pre-spawn,” he said. “I expect a big crankbait bite and docks will come into play. They could still be on a spoon, and I am sure a lot of people will catch some doing that. It might be won that way. But I am going to go look for fish in the creeks and will be throwing crankbaits and jigs on docks and rocks.”
Wicker said he will be counting on those early fish in the shallower water.
“To win that tournament it seems like you have to be a step ahead of them. You've got to be fishing for them before they even get there,” he said. “You've got to catch the early fish to win the tournament.”
Usually Wicker fishes the ABA Weekend Bass Series and he won consecutive Angler of the year titles in 2013 and 2014 in the WBS South Carolina Division, but this year he is also fishing the ABA American Fishing Tour S.C. Division 96 series because the National Championship will be held on Lake Hartwell.
“Normally my dad (Steve Wicker) fishes the S.C. AFT Division,” Wicker said, “but I want to qualify for the national companionship so I am fishing it, too. We each have our own boat so we will be fishing against each other this year.”
Wicker will also fish the ABA Weekend Bass Series, the Carolinas Bass Challenge, some of the FLW Outdoor BFLs, and some Carolina Anglers Team Trail tournaments this year. Having the national championship slated for Lake Hartwell has boosted interest and increase entries in the Division 96 tournaments this year, said tournament director Phil Morris.
“The most I ever had was 34 entries on Lake Greenwood, but I had 35 entries on Clarks Hill this year. I am managing a lot more people because the national championship is bringing in more and more,” Morris said.
American Fishing Tour - South Carolina Division
Sun, Jan 4, 2015
Lake Murray
Dreher Island State Park
B.a.s.s. Introduces New Online Resource - Bassmaster Academy
The new online platform is how-to heavy and offers content for different skill levels from a credible source. At Bassmaster Academy, bass fishing fans can learn at their own pace anywhere, at anytime.
“Our passion is bass fishing, and we wanted to share that passion with others through our high-quality how-to videos,” said Mitch Frank, director of membership at B.A.S.S. “In the beginning, we enlisted the nation’s top bass fishing professionals to produce the Bassmaster University Ultimate Tips & Techniques DVD series, and it was a huge success, so we worked on how to expand that platform to reach a larger audience and make it easier for members to access at their convenience.”
In an effort to create a place for avid anglers to elevate their skill levels, B.A.S.S. created a home for eager-to-learn bass anglers in Bassmaster Academy.
“There are no prerequisites to join the Bassmaster Academy community; any bass enthusiast who wants to improve his or her skills can sign up,” Frank said. “In fact, each member helps us mold and develop our content by responding to our interactive articles, videos and classes.”
Fans are encouraged to let B.A.S.S. know what they’d like to see by joining the conversation in the discussion section under each video or on the Bassmaster Academy Facebook page.
With more than 200 instructional videos, articles and more, Bassmaster Academy offers bass fishing enthusiasts knowledge when they need it. Access to all of the information is available on a PC, Mac or mobile device.
“Our team of content contributors consists of the best in the business of bass,” Frank said. “Bassmaster Academy members can expect new and fresh bass fishing coverage on a monthly basis.”
The Bassmaster Academy premium membership includes unlimited access to hours of exclusive video content, valuable tips, techniques and training from top B.A.S.S. pros, a vast library of knowledge and secrets from the pros, bonus downloads and much more.
To join the Academy, visit BassmasterAcademy.com.
Consistency Will Be Key For Carhartt Bassmaster College Series On St. John's River And Beyond
University of South Carolina bass team member Gettys Brannon
Consistency is going to be a key element for teams fishing the Carhartt Bassmaster College Series this year, said University of South Carolina bass team member Gettys Brannon as he prepared for the 2015 season which kicks off Jan. 3 with the Carhartt Southern Conference Regional on Florida's St. John's River.
Consistency is an attribute that the college teams will have to develop as B.A.S.S. has gone from two-day tournaments to three competition days starting in 2015, Brannon said. Hank Weldon, director of the college fishing program for B.A.S.S., agreed.
“College teams competing in our series are so strong now, they can easily step up to the challenge of a three-day tournament,” Weldon said “It’s exciting to see the level of competition increase every year.”
“We are seeing a lot more college anglers transition from the college level to the pro level, so I think this will help guys figure out what is needed between a one- or two-day tournament and a three-day tournament,” said Brannon, president of the Anglers @ USC, the university's bass tournament organization. “Consistency will play a much bigger role this year than in past years.”
Consistency is a trait Brannon is looking forward to developing with his new teammate for the 2015 season, Tom Brewbaker of Montgomery, Ala. The duo will be fishing the Bassmaster Carhartt College Series and the FLW College Fishing Series, plus the Alabama Bass Trail which premiered in 2014 and has expanded both the number of lakes and the total prize money to be awarded for 2015.
While the change ends the successful partnership Brannon had with former teammate Patrick Walters of Summerville, S.C., the pair have one more major event to fish together – the FLW College Fishing National Championship on South Carolina's Lake Murray April 17-19.
“We are the only two college anglers from South Carolina that qualified for the championship on Lake Murray,” Brannon said. “Lake Murray is a hard lake to figure out with the herring bite and the way the fish interact out there. They act like saltwater fish a lot of times.”
Brannon, a junior advertising and marketing major, and Walters finished 5th in the Southeastern Division tournament on Lake Guntersville in May and capped that with a 9th place finish in the Lake Chickamauga Invitational Oct. 18-19 to qualify for the FLW National College Championship.
In 2014 the duo finished 28th in the Carhartt Bassmaster College Series Southern Division tournament on Lake Okeechobee in January, 18th in the Carhartt College B.A.S.S. Wild Card on Pickwick Lake in June, and then fished into 8th place in the Carhartt Bassmaster College Series National Championship Chatuge Reservoir in Georgia in early August.
Brannon said the change in partners was made to expand the number of teams Anglers @ USC will field in tournaments in 2015, opening the door for many of the two dozen or more freshmen anglers eager to get on the water.
“Some of them are from other areas and don't have the ability to bring a boat here and pay storage,” he said. “We will have more teams fishing this year than we have ever had before. Hopefully, that will help us build our individual rankings even more, but build our team rankings as well.”
Brannon, who is leaving the day after Christmas for the St. John's River, will team with Brewbaker to find out as much about the fishing as possible before the tournament begins Jan. 3. They and three other University of South Carolina teams are among the more than 100 preregistered teams competing for a position for the national championship next summer. There are a minimum of 10 qualifying spots for the 2015 Carhartt Bassmaster College Series National Championship, which leads to a berth in the 2016 GEICO Bassmaster Classic.
“St. John's is a beast,” he said. “Reading currents and understanding tidal changes is going to be a big factor in the tournament.”
The tidal influence on Crescent Lake of nearly a foot will be in full swing because the tournament falls on a full moon, for instance. If the weather sets up right prior to the event, there is also the possibility of a full-blown spawn.
“It will be interesting to see how it all plays out. I think that because the tide changes the bite completely, it will be necessary to find as many fish in practice as we can. Then during the tournament we will be running and gunning,” Brannon said.
The goal, he said, will be to make the top 20 and qualify for the national championship, adding: “It's going to be fun.”
B.A.S.S. Carhartt College Series – Southern Conference Regional
Jan 3-5, 2015
St Johns River
Bull Creek Fish Camp
Lake Greenwood Perfect Place To Hone Tournament Skills For Pro Brandon Cobb
Professional Angler Brandon Cobb of Greenwood, SC
Brandon Cobb fishes the FLW Tour and in 2015 he will also fish the B.A.S.S. Southern Opens, but when he just wants to go catch fish and have a blast at it you will find him on South Carolina's Lake Greenwood.
And the Christmas season and beyond is a prime time to be on the lake near his home, he said.
“This time of year through January Greenwood is a pretty stable lake,” said Cobb who was a member of the Clemson University Fishing Team while he earned his undergraduate degree. “The only thing different right now is that there are a good many fish shallow – but there are just as many deep as always.”
And they are biting he said. Cobb has been fishing the lake pretty regularly during the tournament off-season, honing his skills for the rigors of fishing two major series in 2015.
“I've been out there and gone a half a day without a bite, then catch seven or eight in a row in the 2- to 6-pound range. The jigging spoon bite is good, but you never know what you are going to catch. You might be catching 100 fish a day and 10 of them will be bass while 70 or 80 will be perch.”
But the perch, which could be a nuisance to the die-hard bass fisherman, are a prime indicator you are fishing in the right spot, Cobb said.
“The perch are a good sign. If there are no perch around there probably isn't any bait around.”
While many anglers watch for bird activity to locate feeding fish in winter, Cobb pointed out that when the birds congregate so do fishermen.
“There are crowds around almost every group of birds. If you are bass fishing you are better off using your electronics in areas away from the birds to find bass.”
Cobb said a jigging spoon, a drop-shot and the Alabama Rig are top choices on Greenwood this time of year as most of the fish are congregated 25 to 40 feet deep.
“This usually goes on until around the end of January and sometimes into February until the fish go into pre-spawn. When they do there will still be fish out there deep, but in a tournament situation you will stat seeing more fish being caught shallow on a jerkbait or a crankbait.”
While Greenwood is one of the smaller lakes in South Carolina, it is home to some of the healthiest bass, Cobb said.
“You are not going to catch 40 to 50 fish a day on Greenwood, and there are not many tournaments held on the lake, but it takes over 20 pounds to win nearly every tournament that is held on the lake,” he said.
Flw Releases 2015 High School Fishing State Championship Schedule
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Tournament eligibility
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A digital subscription to FLW Bass Fishing magazine
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Access to free online fishing education courses
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Insurance coverage for students, coaches, schools and volunteers
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Access to the largest volunteer angler network in the nation
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A proven fundraising program to make participation virtually cost free for students and schools
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For students 16 and older, eligibility to win great prizes in monthly FLW giveaways
FLW signs Lew's
Gray Looking To Cash In On His Deep-Fish Talents In Bassmaster Classic On Lake Hartwell
Brandon Gray on the last day of the Toyota Bonus Bucks Bassmaster Team Championship
Brandon Gray knows deep fish – it's the shallow ones that give hm problems. But he should be right in his element as the final angler in for the 2015 Bassmaster Classic on South Carolina's Lake Hartwell Feb. 20-22.
“I'd have to say my strong points are offshore, anywhere from 10 to 40 or 50 feet deep,” said the Bullock, N.C., angler who made it into the Classic by winning the individual title in the first ever Toyota Bonus Bucks Bassmaster Team Championship on Arkansas' DeGray Lake last Saturday.
“I understand the deep fish more. I feel like I know which way they go when they leave their migration areas.”
Gray said he has been trying to learn about the fish that stay up close to the bank.
“I have spent the last two years trying to dissect that and I have got better at it. When a fish leaves the bank I don't know where it goes, but when a fish leaves that 10-foot range I understand where it is going.”
That knowledge should come in handy on Lake Hartwell, which holds schools of deep fish well offshore. Alton Jones won the 2008 Bassmaster Classic on Hartwell by working a jig and a spoon in 25 to 35 feet of water at the edge of the submerged standing timber.
Hartwell was down drastically in 2008, more than 20 feet below normal pool, so there was little to no shoreline cover for bass to hide in. That is not expected to be the case this time around as the lake, while down some, is not nearly as low as it was in 2008. And, if anticipated heavy rains come this winter the level could rise and put more fish on the banks.
Just getting to the Classic has been a tremendous success for Gray who has seen the chance to fish the championship slip through his fingers in the past.
“It’s been a long hard road for me,” said Gray who has come close to making the Classic three times through the Bassmaster Weekend Series National Championship.
“The last three years I have fished it, I finished second at Dardanelle and lost by 2 pounds, then lost by 2 pounds at Guntersville the year before and lost by about 3 pounds at Old Hickory last year,” Gray said.
Gray said he has been on Lake Hartwell twice before, both in the spring when the fish are bedding, so that experience won't be much help in mid-February. Ideally, he would get five, six or seven days of practice on the lake before it goes off limits to the anglers on Jan. 1, but that is proving to be difficult, he said.
Gray, 42, is an occupational hearing conservationist, conducting OSHA standard hearing tests for companies, and his job requires regular testing.
“I tried to line up some time for practice, but nobody wants to give up their commitments, so it looks like I might only get three days at most down there before cut-off,” he said.
He will basically be in the same boat he was when he went to DeGray Lake in Arkansas. He had never been on the lake before, so he studied what he could find on the Internet, then tried working a spoon in one day of practice, then switched areas and tactics on the second day. He wound up working a Norman DD22 to catch the winning fish the last two days of the tournament, along with a 1/8-ounce Shakey Head jig tipped with a black Zoom Trick Worm.
“It’s all about making the right decisions, and I felt like I made the right decisions at DeGray Lake,” he said.
Gray said he would spend his limited practice time riding the lake and looking for potential good places to fish.
Then at tournament time, “I'd just go and do what I do.”
It worked at DeGray so it could work just as well on Hartwell.
Weather Could Hold Key To Success In Lake Wylie Catt Final Saturday
Brian Huskins and David Winters
Brian Huskins and David Winters won the last Lake Wylie Fall Qualifier Dec. 13 to tie with Gene and Payton Webster for the Carolina Anglers Team Trail Fall Points title and both teams will fish free in the Wylie Fall Final Saturday.
“I've won the points the last two or three years in the Fall series,” said Winters, who also won the points in the CATT Spring Trail this year. “This fall we were a little bit slow in starting, but we cleaned it up towards the end of the series.”
In fact, Winters and Huskins had finished no higher than 4th in the previous three tournaments in the Fall Series, but they turned it around when it mattered to claim the points title again, weighing 20.92 pounds in the last qualifier last Saturday.
“Fishing has been a little different this year,” Winters said. “It took us a little time to figure it out, but I think we are on top of it now. We've been catching fish a number of different ways.”
One of those ways, he said, involves a new bait that will not be on the market until after the Bassmaster Classic on Lake Hartwell in February.
“Brian owns Brian's Bee's Crankbaits and a couple of nice fish came off his new Glide Shad,” Winters said. “Of course we also caught them on the Alabama Rig, a jerkbait and a swimming minnow.”
Winters said the front moving across the region this week could have an effect on the bite in Lake Wylie Saturday.
“Fishing is going to be questionable because of the weather pattern. I won't know until Friday exactly what we will do on Saturday. We'll probably stick with the same game plan, but we've just had a couple of warmer days and fish tend to pull up shallow when that happens so we may have to make some small adjustments.”
Brett Collins, CATT owner/director, said he plans to start the Wylie fall schedule a little earlier in 2015, possibly running a series from July through November.
Carolina Anglers Team Trail Fall Final
Saturday, Dec. 20
Lake Wylie
Buster Boyd Bridge
http://www.catttrail.com/2014-CATT-Schedule-Fall.html
Call: (803) 413-7521
Brandon Gray Of Bullock, N.c Claims Final Entry To 2015 Bassmaster Classic!
“It’s been a long hard road for me,” said the 42-year-old Gray. The occupational hearing conservationist (he conducts OSHA standard hearing tests for companies) disclosed he has come close to making the Classic three times through the Bassmaster Weekend Series National Championship.
“The last three years I have fished it, I finished second at Dardanelle and lost by 2 pounds, then lost by 2 pounds at Guntersville the year before and lost by about 3 pounds at Old Hickory last year,” Gray said.
Gray had doubts about even coming to this team championship. “It was a long drive, and we had a successful year back home (fishing with Todd Massey in the Anglers Choice team trail),” Gray said.
However, he thought there might be something special about the site of the championship so they made the long trip. “We both have the same last names — DeGray Lake and Brandon Gray,” he said.
After finding scant information about DeGray on the Internet, Gray decided to try some techniques on lakes close to home that he hoped to duplicate at the championship. “So I was doing as much homework at home so when I got here, I would be prepared,” he said.
Gray thought spooning would be the best way to catch DeGray bass, but he changed his mind when the tactic produced only a couple of keepers in practice. “It’s all about making the right decisions, and I felt like I made the right decisions here,” said Gray, who decided to throw Norman DD22 crankbaits to catch his fish the last two days.
The deep-diving crankbaits produced three keepers for him today, but the calm weather prompted him to make a switch. He completed his limit by catching two keepers on a 1/8-ounce shaky head jig tipped with a black Zoom Trick Worm.
Arizona guide Jon “Scooter” Griffith retained second place today by catching three keepers to give him a two-day total of 12-12. The 41-year-old Griffith said he knew today was going to be tough since he had trouble catching any fish early. "I have had some pretty good days out here but this day I just couldn’t find the hybrids I was catching before and the baitfish just weren’t around,” Griffith said. “I ended up catching all of my fish out of one tree.” He caught most of his fish both days on a 1/2-ounce jigging spoon and drop shotted a Senko for a few of his keepers.
Arkansas angler Royce Davis landed in third place with 9-4. “It has been tough all week long for me,” he said. “I just went fishing the last two days just dragging (a 1/4-ounce wobble-head jig with a Speed Craw) and throwing a jerkbait,” he said. “I had four bites today, and I caught three of them.”
Rounding out the six final spots in the event were Arizona angler John Stewart Jr., who finished fourth with 5-13; Flannagan Fife of Arkansas, fifth, 3-0; and Todd Massey of North Carolina, sixth, 2-6.
Iconic boat brands to come under same ownership
SPRINGFIELD, MO – Bass Pro Group announced today an agreement to acquire Fishing Holdings, LLC, a manufacturer of fishing boats that include Ranger Boats and the Stratos and Triton boat brands from Platinum Equity.
The agreement combines popular fishing boat brands that are recognized internationally. It also creates another connection between two industry leaders, Bass Pro Shops founder/CEO Johnny Morris and Ranger Boats founder Forrest Wood, who are dedicated fishermen, conservationists and entrepreneurs. Years ago the iconic outdoorsmen both began fishing on the White River and White River Chain of Lakes in the Ozarks and even fished together in the first National BASS Tournaments.
“This partnership brings added long-term stability for both companies and for the dealer networks that provide customers with quality boats at exceptional values,” said Morris, who also is founder/CEO of Tracker Marine Group. “I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Forrest Wood many years, and I deeply respect him and his family that founded and built a solid performing business with excellent products.”
Morris added that: “It’s also important that our companies share comparable cultures and values and are dedicated to manufacturing quality products in the USA.”
Following the closing of the transaction, Fishing Holdings will continue operating independently under its existing management at its headquarters in Flippin, Ark., located a two-hour drive from Bass Pro Shops headquarters in Springfield.
“We are impressed with the company’s leadership team and performance and look forward to welcoming them to the Bass Pro Shops family,” said Morris.
“We are fortunate to partner with Bass Pro Group, which understands the industry and our brands,” said Fishing Holdings President Randy Hopper. “This new alliance will provide synergies that will strengthen our independent dealer base and ensure our continued focus on fishing.”
Having grown the business since its origins, Wood also praised the transaction. “I’m excited for Ranger and the team at Fishing Holdings,” he said. “Johnny’s organization is deeply rooted in fishing and dedicated to conservation. He’s made a huge contribution to our sport, and I believe this is a real opportunity to better serve so many dealers and loyal customers around the country.”
Both Morris and Wood have for many years generously donated their time and financial resources to support conservation efforts that help ensure a future for fishing by future generations.
The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. Financial terms of the transaction were not publicly disclosed.
About Bass Pro Shops®
Bass Pro Shops®, which specializes in outdoor fun, operates 90 retail stores and Tracker Marine Centers across America and Canada that are visited by more than 120 million people every year. Bass Pro Shops stores, many of which feature restaurants, offer hunting, fishing, camping and other outdoor gear while their catalogs and website serve shoppers throughout the world. The company’s Tracker Marine Group® (http://www.trackermarine.com/), a leading brand of fishing boats for more than 36 years, manufactures and sells a variety of boats for fishing and cruising. Family fun is on tap at Bass Pro Shops resort Big Cedar Lodge® (http://www.bigcedar.com/) voted number six by Travel + Leisure Magazine as World's Best Hotels for Families. For more information, visit http://www.basspro.com/. To request a free catalog, call 1-800-BASS PRO. Follow us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/bassproshops.
About Fishing Holdings, LLC
Fishing Holdings LLC, headquartered in Flippin, Ark., is a leading manufacturer of fiberglass and aluminum fishing boats, including the legendary Ranger Boats brand, as well as the Stratos and Triton boat brands. More details, product information and specific offerings can be found by visiting www.rangerboats.com, www.stratosboats.com and www.tritonboats.com.
Platinum Equity To Sell Fishing Boat Business To Bass Pro Group
LOS ANGELES, CA (December 11, 2014) – Platinum Equity today announced the signing of a definitive agreement to sell Fishing Holdings, LLC, the Flippin, Arkansas-based manufacturer of the Ranger Boats, Stratos and Triton fishing boat brands, to Bass Pro Group, LLC.
The pending transaction is subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
Platinum Equity acquired Ranger Boats and Stratos as part of a larger portfolio of boat brands in February 2010 from Genmar Holdings, Inc., through a transaction conducted under Section 363 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. Triton was acquired from Brunswick in July 2010.
“Nearly five years ago we pledged to provide the resources and support necessary to help the company grow and evolve, while respecting the heritage and deep roots in fishing that make it so special,” said Platinum Equity Partner Louis Samson, who led the acquisitions in 2010. “We achieved our goals and I am very proud of all that has been accomplished during our stewardship.”
In addition to the add-on acquisition of Triton, Platinum Equity worked with the Fishing Holdings management team to execute a series of other growth and operational improvement programs, including: the development and launch of a line of aluminum boats that involved developing a completely new manufacturing site from the ground up; continued introduction of innovative new products across all brands and segments; strengthening of dealer relationships; and numerous improvements in manufacturing capabilities and overall operational efficiency.
Mr. Samson credited Fishing Holdings President Randy Hopper and the hard work of Fishing Holdings employees as the key driver of the company’s success.
“Randy is an exceptional leader, with a very talented executive team supported by a tremendous group of dedicated employees throughout the entire organization,” said Mr. Samson. “The business will be in very good hands going forward.”
Mr. Hopper expressed excitement about the future as part of the Bass Pro Shops family.
“We’re very fortunate to be partnering with an organization with so much understanding of the industry and our brands,” said Mr. Hopper. “This new alliance will provide synergies that will strengthen our independent dealer base and ensure our continued focus on fishing.”
In addition to generating operational benefits, the transaction will provide further enhanced services and products to better support Fishing Holdings’ existing dealer network and large base of customers worldwide.
Bass Pro Shops founder and CEO Johnny Morris said, “We’re excited about the association with these iconic brands. Ranger Boats founder Forrest Wood has been a longtime friend and someone who has made a tremendous impact on our industry. We look forward to building on such a rich history.”
According to Mr. Morris, after the transaction closes Fishing Holdings’ portfolio will continue to operate from its Flippin, Arkansas headquarters under the leadership of existing local management which boasts more than four decades of experience. He said the new partnership not only joins some of the industry’s most respected brands, but also provides greater stability and growth opportunities for Fishing Holdings’ independent dealer base.
“The business will continue to be operated independently by the same management team that has led it for many years,” added Mr. Morris. “Our goal is to provide the products and services necessary to fuel our collective growth.”
Fishing Holdings was advised by Harris Williams & Co. in connection with the transaction. Latham & Watkins acted as deal counsel.
About Platinum Equity
Founded by Tom Gores in 1995, Platinum Equity is a global investment firm with more than $7 billion in assets under management and a portfolio of operating companies that generated approximately $15 billion in revenue in 2013. Platinum Equity specializes in mergers, acquisitions and operations – a trademarked strategy the firm calls M&A&O® – acquiring and operating companies in a broad range of business markets, including manufacturing, information technology, telecommunications, transportation and logistics, media, equipment rental, metals and other industries. Over the past 19 years Platinum Equity has completed more than 150 acquisitions.
About Fishing Holdings, LLC
Fishing Holdings LLC, headquartered in Flippin, Ark., is the nation’s premier manufacturer of fiberglass and aluminum fishing boats, including the legendary Ranger Boats brand, as well as the Stratos and Triton boat brands. More details, product information and specific offerings can be found by visiting www.rangerboats.com, www.stratosboats.com and www.tritonboats.com.
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Bites May Be Few, But Fish Are Big For Smith Mountain Lake Catt Final
The bass are not jumping into the boat at Smith Mountain Lake, but when you get a bite, it's a good one, said Brandon Reynolds who teamed with his brother-in-law Ben Reynolds to win the points title in the Carolina Anglers Team Trail Fall series.
“The Fall Final Saturday should be a good one,” Reynolds said. “We are getting six or seven bites a day, but we average weighing in 15 to 16 pounds for five fish.”
Reynolds said the fish are not really into a winter pattern yet.
“They are still relatively shallow, 5 to 10 feet, and the water temperature is about 52-53 degrees.”
Top baits are a crankbait and a jig this time of year, depending on conditions, he said.
“If it's a little rough we throw a crankbait; it it's calm and smooth we are pretty much working a jig.”
The Reynolds brothers-in-law – “Ben is from a different set of Reynolds,” Brandon said – sandwiched a 6th place and a 3rd place between two first places Sept. 27 and Nov. 29 to claim the points championship. With that title they get free entry into the Smith Mountain Lake Fall Qualifying Tournaments in 2015, said CATT owner/director Brett Collins.
Collins also announced CATT will hold a Smith Mountain Spring Trail and an early Fall Trail that will run August through November.
“The Smith Mountain Lake teams entering the Fall 2014 and Spring 2015 Trails will be eligible for the North Carolina CATT Championship next May on Kerr Reservoir,” Collins said. “First place in the championship, with at least 150 teams, will be from $8,000 to $11,000.”
Collins said he expects the Smith Mountain Lake CATT to grow considerably in 2015.
“We will have some Lew's Reels to give away and possibly some Academy Sports Gift Cards, plus we will offer money to Skeeter owners,” he said.
CATT Final on Smith Mountain Lake
Saturday, Dec. 13
Penhook Ramp
Call: Brett Collins, (803) 413-7521
Morry Banes weighs-in on multi tools for fishing
Best fishing multi tool - get your money's worth and enjoy your new fishing buddy
Let me just put it out there, I am hooked on multi tools and they’ve become an irreplaceable part of my fishing gear over the years.
There’s nothing like packing a ton of utility in a small, lightweight, pocket-sized thingamabob. Today I’m here to show you what these little guys can do for us and to give you a small reference list containing my personal picks. Once you get used to carrying one of these, you won’t be able to imagine a fishing trip without it, I’m telling you from my own personal experience.
What are we looking for in a multi tool?
We basically always want what we paid for, right? Well, with multi tools you usually get even more provided you know what and where to look. We want versatility, practicality, simplicity, and good performance overall.
Here are some general tips:
ü First of all, make sure that you get a multi tool from a well-known manufacturer. I know you might be tempted to go cheaper and save a few bucks, but trust me it will come to bite you in the, well… later on. Companies like Leatherman, SOG, Gerber, and Victorinox are always a safe bet. They stand firmly behind their products and more often than not offer a lifetime guarantee for them
ü Keep it simple. Sticking to the basics is what I’m all about. You don’t want to fall victim to flashy marketing strategies that try to sell you a product featuring a gazillion of cool, yet profoundly unnecessary tools. It will look awesome and weigh a ton, not good when we’re trying to travel as light as possible
ü Define your own needs first. This will help you make up your mind between general multi tools and those specially made for fishing purposes. What I’m trying to say is you don’t necessarily have to go for the specialized and more expensive options if you can go by perfectly with your regular high-quality multi tool
ü Do your homework. This is where I fall in. Articles such as this are meant to educate you point you in the right direction without being too cumbersome or delving into unnecessary theory. A short internet search would probably be everything you’ll ever need
What can a multi tool do for us?
A great many deal of things if you ask me. Every single one of these bad boys features numerous functions and will leave you stupefied at how versatile it can actually be.
Let’s see some of the things multi tools are good for:
ü Firstly, almost every multi tool features a good pair of pliers that can be used for removing the hooks. If you never tried removing a hook from an underweight catfish, you don’t know what the true pain is my good man. Most of these pliers can be opened using just one hand, which leaves you with a free hand for some other important tasks
ü Razor sharp blades have become the staple of modern multi tools. They’ll come in handy in more way than one, especially for quick fish fileting. Just start and observe as they do the job for you
ü Split ring tool will change those lures in no time
ü Time for some pesky scale removing? Your new multi tool will take care of that
ü If you need to sharpen your hooks, you can always use a file that’s a part of standard tool set or a special sharpening groove if your multi tool has it
ü I don’t have to tell you about the importance of a good pair of scissors now do I? They’ll snap any line you have in store for them
This is what I meant when I mentioned versatility, and this is just the tip of the iceberg.
Ok, I promised I won’t theorize much, so it’s time to get specific.
Reference list of my personal picks
I’ve whipped out a couple of amazing tools for guiding purposes. I’m not advertising anything, just trying to implant in your head a model and a set of qualities your new multi tool should have.
Let's see which one of these babies might be the best multi tool for you:
Leatherman Skeletool
This tool "schools" most of the others when it comes to simplicity and minimalistic yet effective design. It’s called Skeletool because it represents bare bones and bare necessities. And Leatherman is one of the best known and respected companies in the multi tool industry.
A relatively new addition to the Leatherman portfolio, and it has a more aggressive and into your face look than traditional Leatherman multi tools. It’s a perfect look for an aggressive and very relentless piece of equipment if you ask me.
Beautifully styled, minimalistic in design, compact, lightweight, and just powerful. Stainless steel is the material of choice, of course. It’s very ergonomic and sits more than comfortably in your hand.
It contains needlenose and regular pliers, hard-wire and regular wire cutters, combo knife, carabiner clip that can be used as a bottle opener, and a good screwdriver with bits. It also comes with a pocket clip that can be removed and with a storage case. The blade has a locking mechanism so safety of your fingers is not a concern.
Gerber Flick Fish Multi-Plier
This would be your specialized multi tool that’s every fisherman’s dream at the same time. Once again, we see a trusty manufacturer that’s a well-known name in the industry of knives and multi tools.
Its pliers are very high-quality, solid and designed for one-handed opening. It features a great pair of scissors and a sharpening file. Regular/serrated blade, crimpers, bottle/can opener, and a saw are what awaits you under the hood of this bad boy. All tools are understandably top tier.
It comes with a lifetime guarantee. That’s what we like to see, a manufacturer that’s not afraid to stand behind its multi tool.
There we have it. I’ve given you some quick tips, some info about the multi tool’s functionality, and a couple of great examples of what a good multi tool should look like. But, each of us has their own set of needs.
My hope with this article is to point you in the right direction and point to some benefits. But by all means, do a bit more research for yourself, read some more reviews before you decide which is the best multi tool for you.
As a collector and an enthusiast I promise you, it's time well spent.
when or if you make the decision, enjoy your new toy and have a great many of successful fishing trips together.
Check Out the 2015 Star Tron Tundra and Triton piloted by Patrick Pierce!
http://www.sportsmanswarehouse.com/sportsmans/Starbrite-Star-Tron-Gasoline-Additive/productDetail/Gas-Motor-Accessories/prod99999027004/cat126461
Participation Increasing, Fishing Getting Better For Monster Bass On Lake Norman
Fishing should be great and entries should be up for the 4th Carolina Monster Bass Winter Trail Tournament on Lake Norman Saturday, said tournament director Scott Hyder.
“The tournaments have been going good and entries are picking up,” Hyder said. “We should have 25 to 30 boats this Saturday.”
Fishing success has been picking up, too, he said.
“Fishing should be great this weekend. Two weeks ago it took 18 pounds to win and Shane Lehew had big fish at 7.06 pounds.”
Hyder said anglers have been catching bass both shallow and deep on Lake Norman.
“They are doing a lot of flipping under the docks,” he noted.
With participation and fishing success on the rise, Hyder said he is looking forward to next year on the Denver Marine Monster Bass Trail.
“We are going to upgrade the tournaments. We just want fishermen to come fish with us,” he said.
Anglers pay a $20 membership fee to participate in the Denver Marine Monster Bass series and teams pay a $75 entry fee per tournament, which includes $10 for Big Fish. However, the membership fee is waived if the angler bought or buys his boat from Denver Marine.
The tournament series has other bonus money for anglers who qualify. An angler who wins while fishing out of a Denver Marine Ranger Boat, no matter what year, will earn bonus money. Also, anglers fishing out of another make of boat that was bought from Denver marine also can earn some bonus money.
The Ranger Cup is available for anyone in a Ranger Boat 10 years old or newer that was bought from Denver Marine as long as there are 20 or more boats entered in a tournament. Monster Bass Bucks are available for Rangers up to 10 years old purchased from Denver marine – with a 20-boat minimum. The boats must have a Team Denver Marine windshield sticker and bass displayed for both bonus programs.
There is even a special lure program. An angler who wins with a Shane's Finesse Rigg by local luremaker Shane Lehew will earn up to $100 in a regular season tournament and $250 in the year-end championship.
Even the less than lucky anglers have something to shoot for. The team with the lowest weight for a 5-fish limit will win $75 provided by Key Properties.
But, perhaps the biggest bonus is the chance to win an entry into the highly popular Jim Ledbetter Cancer Tournament on Lake Norman next March. The top 10 in points in the Monster Bass series will receive a free entry to the Ledbetter Tournament, plus all the boats will be entered in a drawing for an entry into the Ledbetter Tournament.
The winner of the Jim Ledbetter Cancer Tournament will take home a 2015 Ranger Boat, provided by Denver Marine, Ranger Boats and Evinrude.
The remaining schedule for the Carolina Monster Bass Winter Trail is Dec. 13, Jan. 3 and Jan. 10, with the Championship Jan. 24, all out of Midway Marina on Lake Norman.
Carolina Monster Bass Winter Trail
Sat, Nov 15, 2014
Lake Norman
Midway Marina
Call Scott Hyder, 704-483-9471 or 704-861-3163
http://denverrecreationalmarine.com/tournaments,schedule
Gunter Looking For 'sweet Spot' In Bassmaster Team Championship On Degray Lake
When Stanley Gunter and his partner set out on DeGray Lake for the second and final day of practice for the Toyota Bonus Bucks Bassmaster Team Championship they were looking for a “little sweet spot” on the side of a ledge or hump in deep water that might produce some quality bass in the tournament this week.
The inaugural Bassmaster Team Championship will be won deep on DeGray Lake, Gunter said, for one simple reason. There is just not enough shoreline to accommodate all the anglers fishing the tournament.
DeGray, a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 13,800-acre lake set in the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains, is the competition arena for more than 150 teams from 38 independent tournament trails across the country so everybody will be vying for an area to fish..
“It is a small lake with a lot of people on it,” said Gunter who hails from Saluda, S.C., and qualified for the Team Championship through the Carolinas Bass Challenge, which sent 22 teams to the championship.”It's really crowded. You go into a creek a half a mile long and there will be 20 boats in it. If you are fishing the banks you have to get in line to fish.”
Gunter said he found fish from 2 feet out to 40 feet in practice. There is still a lot of bait shallow, but it's hard to catch the fish on that bait because the shorelines are so crowded with boats. DeGray yields mainly catches of largemouth and spotted bass with a few smallmouths in the mix.
Adding to the problem, Gunter said, is the fact that anglers are not allowed to keep some really quality largemouth bass.
“I caught a 2 1/4-pound largemouth and had to throw it back. They have a 13-inch to 16-inch slot limit where you can keep anything over 16 inches. It's kind of tough to throw a fish like that back as tough as the fishing is.”
Gunter and teammate Will Smith of Moncks Corner, S.C., qualified as a team, but Smith had to withdraw because of illness, so Gunter is paired with Gene Parker from North Carolina who had the same issue with his regular teammate.
In the first segment of the unique, four-day tournament, two-angler teams from various B.A.S.S.-sanctioned team trails across the country will vie to become the Toyota Bonus Bucks Bassmaster Team Champions, a title that includes the first-place prize of a Nitro Z7 bass boat/Mercury Optimax 150 Pro XS outboard rig valued at $26,995 as well as the Livingston Leader Award of $500. The team champions will also receive a traveling trophy to take back to the team trail they represented.
Members of the Top 3 finishers in the team competition advance to the final two rounds of the tournament and will fish individually for the final qualifying spot in the 2015 Bassmaster Classic to be held Feb. 20-22 on Lake Hartwell out of Greenville, S.C.
Competitors in the Classic rounds will fish from six identically rigged Skeeter FX20 bass boats powered by Yamaha. In addition to the Classic berth, the winner will receive a Skeeter FX20/Yamaha250 outboard rig valued at $85,360, which he or she will run in the Classic.
Nothing would suit Gunter more than to qualify for the 2015 Bassmaster Classic on South Carolina's Lake Hartwell.
“I fish Hartwell pretty regular,” he said. “I know it pretty well and I”d sure love to make the Classic for that one.”
Toyota Bonus Bucks Bassmaster Team Championship
Dec 10-13, 2014
DeGray Lake
DeGray Lake Resort State Park
Get to Sportsman's Warehouse and get an X Rap Deep to keep catching in the cold!
Rapala makes some of the best jerkbaits on the market. Their X Rap Deep is just the ticket when fish bunch up offshore.
If you're still catching them shallow, great. If your fish have moved out then it's time to get to Sportsman's Warehouse or SportsmansWarehouse.com and check out the Rapala X Rap Deep jerkbait!
Remember, jerkbaiting success depends on figuring out how long to pause between jerks, so experiment and pay attention.
Good luck!
http://www.sportsmanswarehouse.com/sportsmans/Rapala-X-Rap-Deep/productDetail/Jerkbaits/prod9999006842/cat101087
Ranger walk around with President Randy Hopper and the Aluminum RT 178!!
Ranger Boats President Randy Hopper takes us on a quick walk around of the popular Ranger Aluminum RT 178 with a cut thru version that is fantastic to see...................click on the video for the full story!!
Ranger teams with Rigid
Whether you're backing the boat down a dark ramp, running down the lake under the moon, or fishing off shore after the sun is long gone, Rigid Industries LED Lighting has all the lighting options needed to be successful fishing and safe at night. Torture Tested, Angler Approved.
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Ranger Boats Selects Rigid Industries LED Lighting as Upgrade Package Offering
Ranger Boats partners with Rigid Industries LED Lighting, to offer the total lighting package for the flagship Z500 Comanche Series
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Lane Brothers To Duke It Out Live On B.a.s.s. Brawl Monday
It is not unusual for brothers to fight — that’s simply part of a family dynamic. However, you don’t usually get to see the two boys duke it out on a bass boat with the world watching. The next B.A.S.S. Brawl, a live fish-off aired exclusively on Bassmaster.com, will feature Bassmaster Elite Series pros Chris and Bobby Lane doing just that — jabbing each other with each fish caught until one of the siblings cries “uncle.”
On Monday, Dec. 8 at 10 a.m. EST, the two anglers will fish side by side, casting into the famed waters of Lake X near Orlando, Fla. This renowned trophy largemouth factory will turn a front-yard scuffle into a cage match, as both brothers have reputations as big-fish specialists.
Although the sibling rivalry is healthy (Chris is the youngest of three brothers and was picked on unmercifully as a child), the professional competition between the two is just as fierce. Bobby has won one Bassmaster event, has fished seven Classics and has earned more than $900,000 in B.A.S.S. earnings. Chris has won six Bassmaster events (including the 2012 Classic) and has racked up $1.6 million in B.A.S.S. earnings.
The winner of this competition will be decided by the age-old fishing contest standard of first, biggest and most fish caught.
Competition will take place in two one-hour periods, with a break between each period. The two anglers will fish from the same boat, but they will switch boats at halftime. A coin toss will determine which angler’s personal bass boat will be used first. The owner of the boat in use controls the boat and decides the fishing locations for his half of the competition.
The B.A.S.S. Brawl event will have two cameras on the water at all times. One camera will be in the boat with the anglers, and one will be capturing the action from a short distance away. For the special B.A.S.S. Brawl: Family Feud edition, the oldest Lane brother, Arnie, will serve as the camera boat driver and on-the-water commentator on all of the Lane action.
An additional live camera will stream from the Bassmaster studio, where Tommy Sanders and Elite Series pro Mike McClelland will be standing by for play-by-play commentary, analysis and color.
Six weeks ago, the first Bass Brawl took place on the Tennessee River, pitting Randy Howell against David Walker. That contest had the backdrop of the Alabama/Tennessee football game on the horizon. This Brawl will be scored in similar fashion: The first bass and the biggest bass each earn 7 points, and each additional bass of any size counts for 3 points.
To watch the B.A.S.S. Brawl live, fans can visit Bassmaster.com, or go directly to http://www.bassmaster.com/video/watch-lane-brothers-bass-brawl-live.
The Making Of A Ranger Aluminum Bass Boat In Photos
Angler’s Choice Marine Named to 2014 Boating Industry Top 100 list
MARTINSVILLE, VA (November 19, 2014) Angler’s Choice Marine has been named one of the Top 100 dealers in North America by Boating Industry, the leading trade publication for the marine industry. Owners, Sandi and Nick Loganadan, were honored during the recent Boating Industry’s Top 100 Dealers black tie event in Orlando, Florida
“Out of the thousands of boat dealers in North America, only the very best make the Top 100 list,” said Boating Industry Editor in Chief Jonathan Sweet. “These companies are the elite of the marine industry, excelling at all aspects of their business.”
The Top 100 is an annual list of dealerships that are unsurpassed in business operations, professionalism, marketing tactics, customer service and more. This year marked the 10th anniversary of the Boating Industry Top 100 program.
“What a great honor, in our 20th year of business, to be selected by Boating Industry as a Top 100 Dealer in North America,” says Sandi Loganadan. “We owe it all to our dedicated employees and loyal customers who have supported us for many years in the marine industry. I would like to say thank you to all of them.”
Family owned and operated, Angler’s Choice Marine features a full line of bass, pontoon, skiff and pleasure boats and is celebrating 20 years of serving fishing and boating enthusiasts throughout the nation. They have dealerships located in Martinsville, VA; Lexington, NC, Spindale, NC and Moneta, VA. For more information, visit them on the web at www.anglerschoicemarine.com or call 276-632-5600.
Angler’s Choice Marine Named to 2014 Boating Industry Top 100 list
MARTINSVILLE, VA (November 19, 2014) Angler’s Choice Marine has been named one of the Top 100 dealers in North America by Boating Industry, the leading trade publication for the marine industry. Owners, Sandi and Nick Loganadan, were honored during the recent Boating Industry’s Top 100 Dealers black tie event in Orlando, Florida
“Out of the thousands of boat dealers in North America, only the very best make the Top 100 list,” said Boating Industry Editor in Chief Jonathan Sweet. “These companies are the elite of the marine industry, excelling at all aspects of their business.”
The Top 100 is an annual list of dealerships that are unsurpassed in business operations, professionalism, marketing tactics, customer service and more. This year marked the 10th anniversary of the Boating Industry Top 100 program.
“What a great honor, in our 20th year of business, to be selected by Boating Industry as a Top 100 Dealer in North America,” says Sandi Loganadan. “We owe it all to our dedicated employees and loyal customers who have supported us for many years in the marine industry. I would like to say thank you to all of them.”
Family owned and operated, Angler’s Choice Marine features a full line of bass, pontoon, skiff and pleasure boats and is celebrating 20 years of serving fishing and boating enthusiasts throughout the nation. They have dealerships located in Martinsville, VA; Lexington, NC, Spindale, NC and Moneta, VA. For more information, visit them on the web at www.anglerschoicemarine.com or call 276-632-5600.
Tomahawk Fishing Shop Launches New Winter Team Trail On Lake Murray
Winter trails are popular on a lot of lakes, such as Lake Norman and Lake Wylie, but for some reason there is usually a lull in tournament activity on Lake Murray during December and into January. But now that void has been filled.
A new fishing center in downtown Columbia, the Tomahawk Fishing Shop in Five Points, has launched the Tomahawk Team Trail 2014-2015 Winter Series on Lake Murray. Participants pay a one-time membership fee each of $30, then $60 per boat for each qualifying tournament, plus an optional $10 Big Fish entry, said Gettys Brannon, a manager at Tomahawk who serves as tournament director. Teams can enter at the ramp or they can register early at the Tomahawk Fishing Shop and get 15 percent off on their next purchase.
“We have 100 percent payback at the qualifying tournaments and the winners at the championship will get $5,000,” said Brannon, who is also president of the University of South Carolina fishing team, Anglers At USC. Lew's Fishing will award a Lew's BB1 Casting Reel to the Big Fish winner at select tournaments.
The payback at qualifying tournaments is one in every six boats and each week the first three places out of the money will receive a Tomahawk Fishing Shop gift card. In addition, every team member will get a Groucho's Deli sandwich, a bag of chips and Groucho's Famous 45 Sauce at the launch of each tournament, Brannon said.
The first tournament of the winter series was held Nov. 22, with a small entry, he said, because it conflicted with the Lake Murray Carolina Anglers Team Trail Final which drew most of the local tournament anglers. The second tournament was scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 6, but was canceled due to a conflict with the Mr. Lake Murray tournament.
The next tournament will be Saturday, Dec. 13, out of Larry Koon Landing. The schedule includes: Dec. 13, Dec. 20, Jan. 3, Jan. 10, Jan. 17 and Jan. 24, with the two-day championship Jan. 30-31.
“At that first tournament, a lot of the local anglers were fishing the CATT Final, but we had some boats come 60 miles or more to fish the Tomahawk tournament, so we are looking for a better turnout Dec. 13,” Brannon said.
And, he added, the fishing on Lake Murray could be very good by then.
“The water is going to cool off and the big bass should come up and start biting. There should be a good jerkbait and Shane's Baits Alabama Rig bite and possibly a good crankbait bite,” he said. “I think the fishermen will be looking, not for quantity, but for quality. In the winter on Lake Murray if you get five fish they are not squeakers, they are quality fish. I think it will take a good weight to win it.”
The Tomahawk Fishing Shop at 613 Harden Street, Columbia, is a locally-owned fishing-themed store as well as a tackle shop.
“Being in downtown Columbia it is a little different environment from a regular tackle shop,” Brannon said. “We have a little something for just about everybody, from local art and wood carvings by local artists to all types of locally-produced apparel. We even have ice cream sandwiches and later we will also have boiled peanuts.”
Brannon said the shop also targets everyday anglers as well as serious tournament anglers.
“We carry local and regional brands such as ALX Rods in Aiken, Greenfish Tackle in Augusta and Local Boy Outfitters, an apparel brand in Columbia.”
Tomahawk Team Trail Winter Series
Saturday, Dec. 6
Lake Murray
Larry Koon Landing
http://TomahawkFishingShop.com
Call: Gettys Brannon, (864)490-7864
Chuck Chapel Tournament Provides Christmas To The Underprivileged
The memory of the late Chuck Chapel, a well-known and admired August, Ga., marine dealer, lives on in the eyes of hundreds of children who have a Christmas each year that would not have been possible otherwise.
Proceeds from the annual Chuck Chapel Memorial Tournament on Clarks Hill Lake go to the Angel Tree at Journey Community Church in Evans, Ga., said Jon Hair, co-owner of The Tackle Shop which sponsors the tournament.
“We've given Christmas to around 400 families in the past four years,” Hair said. “We have give between $1,700 and $2,000 every year to the Angel Tree, which provides Christmas to underprivileged families.”
Hair said the annual tournament was started to honor the local marine dealer who died unexpectedly of a heart attack several years ago.
“Chuck Chapel owned Lakeside Marine and we decided to honor him by holding a tournament that gives to the Angel tree program,” he said.
Hair said the 5th Annual Chuck Chapel Memorial Tournament will be held Saturday out of Wildwood Park, with $5,000 guaranteed to the winner.
“We have several different sponsors who provide the money for first place and we pay one place for every 10 boats, and our payout is very good right down the line,” he said. “We generally get 80 boats or so and if we do that is $8,000 to be split between 10 places.”
Entry fee is $110, which includes $10 for the Big Fish Pot. Registration is 5-7 p.m. Tuesday at The Tackle Shop, 4009 Columbia Road.
Hair and Will Hardy, a professional angler on the FLW Tour, opened The Tackle Shop in January 2013 to sell the custom lures made by their lure company, Greenfish Lures, along with other fishing tackle.
“We make custom tackle – spinnerbaits, buzzbaits, jigs, Shakey Heads. We make specialty lures for fishing around here, like our Square Rubber Jig, and we hand-tie swim jigs like our Skipping Jig,” Hair said.
5th Annual Chuck Chapel Memorial Team Tournament
Sat, Dec 6, 2014
Clarks Hill Lake
Wildwood Park
Call Jon Hair at The Tackle Shop, (706) 432-8225
Alabama Rig Could Be Dominant In Third Lake Wylie Catt Saturday
BRANDON WILLIAMS & DEREK LILLEY WON THE NOV 29 CATT TOURNAMENT ON WYLIE
Look for the Alabama Rig to play a major role in the third Carolina Anglers Team Trail Fall Tournament Saturday on Lake Wylie.
“The fish are suspended over and under the bait and all they are doing on Wylie is the Alabama Rig,” said Brett Collins, CATT owner. “The jerkbait is working, too, along with the Shakey Head.”
Collins said it took 28 pounds to win an open tournament on Wylie Saturday before last – “unheard of on Wylie” – so look for some quality sacks to be weighed in Saturday.
“The past three years the fish have bit better when it was cold. With all the rain last week there is no doubt the lake is stained to muddy in parts. The South Fork should be warm and hold some shallow fish,” Collins said.
The tournament Saturday will be a CATT Gold Tournament, he noted. CATT Gold tournaments pay back one in every five teams entered and the paybacks are greater than in regular qualifiers.
“Next year the Santee and Lake Murray Spring Trails will be all CATT Gold,” Collins announced. He also announced a major sponsorship boost for the entire CATT Trail.
“And next year, Lews Rods, Academy Sports and Skeeter Boats will sponsor the CATT Trail , and that means Skeeter bonus money for qualifying anglers.”
The Lake Wylie Fall Trail will continue after Saturday with the 4th qualifier Dec. 13 and the Final Dec. 20. Hunt Fish Paddle will award a $100 gift certificate to the Lake Wylie Fall Points Champions and $100 in cash to the second place points winners.
Collins also announced he will probably extend his new Catfish Trail to Santee Cooper next year because of the popularity of the Lake Wateree Catfish Trail – Carolina CATT – being held out of Lake Wateree State Park.
In the second Carolina CATT tournament held Nov. 29 Benji Brown, Jerry Donohue and Riley Brown, who also won Youth Big Fish, weighed in 86.05 pounds for three fish to win $515.
“I've never seen such big catfish,” Collins said. “The catfish trail is a whole different ballgame. They can fish four in a boat and they bring their families and fish.”
Collins said he had been contacted about expanding the catfish trail to Lake Wylie and other Yadkin River lakes.
Carolina Anglers Team Trail Fall Qualifier No. 3
Saturday, Dec. 6
Lake Wylie
Buster Boyd Bridge
http://www.catttrail.com/2014-CATT-Schedule-Fall.html
Call: (803) 413-7521
T-H Marine to Sponsor MLF Select Series
T-H Marine has signed-on as a sponsor of Major League Fishing's Select Series for 2015. Having just re-upped with American Bass Anglers as well, the manufacturer of boating products has launched an aggressive marketing campaign for the coming year. Details follow:
T-H Marine, one of the largest and most versatile marine parts suppliers in the world, has become a Major League Fishing GEICO Selects sponsor, the league announced today.
T-H Marine, a Huntsville, Alabama-based manufacturer, produces thousands of supplies and accessories for boats of every category.
“T-H Marine is one of the great companies in the boating and fishing industries. Their products are tremendous, and their reach is global. T-H Marine is a great fit for Major League Fishing, and we believe we will be an equally great fit for them. We couldn’t be more pleased to enter into this partnership,” said Major League Fishing General Manager Jim Wilburn.
T-H Marine President and CEO Jeff Huntley called Major League Fishing the “hottest thing on television.”
“In our industry, this is the show that people are watching, and we are absolutely pumped to be part of Major League Fishing,” Huntley said. “We’re really excited about the high level of visibility that Major League Fishing offers, and that includes how our products are presented on the shows.”
Major League Fishing is a partnership between Outdoor Channel, America’s Leader in Outdoor TV, and 48 of the world’s best anglers. On its Cup and Select series events, the league features made-for-television competition events that utilize a format that allows anglers to weigh all the “scorable bass” they catch. Bass are immediately weighed after they are caught, then they are released back into the water. Anglers know where they rank in the standings at all times via real-time leader boards. The competitors are not allowed to practice before events.
Major League Fishing introduced the GEICO Select series in 2014. Two events were filmed in 2014 and will air on Outdoor Channel beginning in January 2015. The first event, the Bass Pro Shops Summit Select, presented by BACAS, is now available on Extended Cast, which is Major League Fishing’s two-hours-plus, web-based offering.
These highly popular Extended Cast productions can be found by visiting Major League Fishing’s Internet site: www.majorleaguefishing.com.
T-H Marine Continues Sponsorship of ABA
T-H Marine, a leading manufacturer of 1,000s of boat parts and accessories has renewed its sponsorship of the American Bass Anglers. The multi-year agreement will have T-H Marine sponsor and represented at all of the Weekend Bass Series, American Fishing Tour, 100% Plus Team Trail, American Couples Series, The Ray Scott Championship and the Annual Military Team Bass Anglers Tournament.
“T-H Marine has long been a leader in premium and innovative products used daily by both recreational boaters and anglers. While they make 1,000s of boating parts and accessories, most anglers know T-H Marine best for their fish care systems and products, performance products and safety systems. T-H Marine offers special rewards for anglers that use their products through the Atlas Award program. We are proud to have T-H Marine as a partner and for their continued support of the weekend bass angler. ,” said Morris Sheehan, President of American Bass Anglers, Inc.
As part of this sponsorship T-H Marine will be offering a bonus program ̶ Atlas Awards ̶ for anglers who win events and own and use T-H Marine accessories on their boats. Anglers can learn more about the program and sign up at WWW.THMARINE.COM/ATLASAWARDS. T-H Marine will also be sponsoring the Lucky Dog award in the 100% Plus Team trail. The first team out of the money at all 100% Plus Team Trail events will receive the Lucky Dog award a special T-H Marine prize package. To further fish care, T-H Marine will also sponsor weigh bags with mesh inserts at all Weekend Series and 100% Plus Team Trail events.
“We are really excited to continue our partnership with American Bass Anglers. They are the largest tournament trail out there for the weekend angler and they run their tournaments the way the fishermen want. Those weekend anglers are the ultimate end users of our products – including ATLAS™ hydraulic jack plates, HOT FOOT™ throttles, and the OXYGENATOR™ livewell oxygen system. We are happy to that our sponsorship of American Bass Anglers we will be supporting the lifestyle and the bass tournaments the weekend bass angler loves to compete in,” said Jeff Huntley, President, T-H Marine.
To learn more about T-H Marine and their products visit WWW.THMARINE.COM and to learn more about Atlas Awards visit WWW.THMARINE.COM/ATLASAWARDS .
Shimano/b.a.s.s Youth Conservation Initiative Accepting Proposals For Grant Assistance
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Fish habitat enhancement projects aren’t what they used to be. They’re better, thanks in part to the Shimano/B.A.S.S. Youth Conservation Initiative, which encourages involvement by B.A.S.S.-affiliated clubs in projects that get youth groups involved in conserving and restoring fisheries habitat.
The Shimano/B.A.S.S. Youth Conservation Initiative is now accepting project proposals from state chapters and B.A.S.S. Nation clubs through Jan. 15, 2015, for grant assistance. B.A.S.S. Nation conservation directors can submit proposals for projects involving youth members of Junior Bassmaster clubs, high school or college fishing teams, Scout troops, Boys or Girls Clubs, FFA or 4-H, church youth groups and school science clubs, for a few examples.
One of the three projects financed during the first year of the Shimano/B.A.S.S Youth Conservation Initiative was an effort by the Georgia B.A.S.S. Nation to revive West Point Lake’s sagging largemouth fishery.
In August, about 40 volunteers from Georgia B.A.S.S. Nation clubs, six high schools and the University of West Georgia planted 2,000 water willows at West Point Lake on the Chattahoochee River. The hope is that this vegetation will help young largemouth survive an expanding population of smaller, but more aggressive, spotted bass.
“Largemouth bass spend much of their first year in less than 5 feet of water,” said Tony Beck, Georgia B.A.S.S. Nation conservation director. “If they are spending that time on a bare bank with no habitat, the chances of them surviving go way down. But if they can spend that time in a water willow grassbed, they have a good chance of surviving to 6 to 8 inches and recruiting into the population.”
Additionally, the Lake Oconee Bassmasters grew the willows from cuttings taken from plants that they helped establish in Lake Oconee six years ago. Then club members and high school anglers spent two days cutting and potting.
“It takes about three months from the time the cuttings are potted to the time that they are ready to be planted,” Beck said. “During that time, a lot of hours are spent keeping them alive. I would say we have well over 300 man hours of work in this project.”
While Shimano will fund the grants, B.A.S.S. will administer them evenly among the six B.A.S.S. Nation regions.
“Through Shimano’s incredible generosity and commitment to conservation and youth, we will again this year be able to provide one grant per B.A.S.S. Nation division, if we get suitable applicants,” said Gene Gilliland, B.A.S.S. conservation director.
“Proposals that show the best integration of B.A.S.S. members, partnering with youth groups, other organizations or agencies and leveraging matching funds or donated materials will receive the highest consideration,” he added.
To apply, fill out an application using the link http://www.bassmaster.com/sites/default/files/imce/2015_shimano_bass_youth_grant_application.pdf, and return it to Gilliland at [email protected].
Proposals will be judged by a panel that includes Gilliland; Jon Stewart, B.A.S.S. Nation director; Shimano Director of Environmental Affairs Phil Morlock; and other representatives from Shimano. The awards will be announced at the 2015 GEICO Bassmaster Classic in Greenville, S.C.
“We are encouraging the B.A.S.S. chapters to work with fishery management agencies and local fishing tackle retailers to identify the conservation needs in their areas,” Morlock said. “Fish habitat improvement can involve a wide variety of efforts both in and adjacent to the water, and projects that benefit multiple gamefish species and/or forage fish are key to improving fishing.
“When young anglers can see first hand the positive results of ‘hands on’ habitat improvement, they develop an appreciation for why we enjoy such a wealth of quality fishing and how anglers volunteer to make a significant contribution to conservation,” he added.
Other projects financed the first year included enhancement of habitat on urban fishing ponds in Connecticut and establishment of aquatic vegetation and installation of fish attractors in New Mexico’s Elephant Butte Reservoir.
“The New Mexico project really typifies what we hope to achieve with this program,” Gilliland said. “They’re thinking along the lines of improving an entire reservoir, not just putting in fish attractors. They’re using both plants and artificial habitat. They’re working with local high schools, the Bureau of Reclamation, Game and Fish, state parks and other organizations.”
In Connecticut, meanwhile, the Mohawk Valley BassCasters, assisted by the Lightning Junior Bassmaster Club, placed “spider block” cover in Echo Lake. The Connecticut B.A.S.S. Nation is using that initial project to provide a video guide and installation plan for other clubs to follow.
“This was the first of our Community Lake enhancement projects, and we wanted to be sure that we have a very detailed plan for other clubs to follow to make these projects easy, fun and meaningful,” said Dean Rustic, Connecticut B.A.S.S. Nation conservation director.
Mr. Lake Murray Tournament 'only Game In Town' First Saturday In December
While December is normally a down time for bass tournaments, Rich Gerken is hoping a lot of tournament anglers around the South Carolina Midlands will be looking for some action and enter the 5thAnnual Mr. Lake Murray Bass Tournament Saturday, Dec. 6.
“We've never fished a bass tournament this late in the year,” said Gerken, president of The Bass Federation of South Carolina which is holding the tournament, “but we are optimistic about it.”
Gerken said the Mr. Lake Murray tournament was held the third week of September the previous four years, but this year all the launch sites on the lake were booked in September and then right on through the fall. Dec. 6 was the earliest date available at Dreher Island State Park.
But he expects a good turnout and hopes the later date will result in an even bigger turnout for the annual tournament.
“In the past we've never quite made 100 boats; we've usually had about 60 or 70 boats entered,” he said. “But, if we get to 100 boats we will pay $5,000 to first place.”
Interest appears to be up this year, he noted, thanks to some local radio promotions.
“We've got a lot of calls and that is a good sign,” he said. “We are about the only thing happening this time of year so we are not competing with anybody.”
Entry fee is $140 in advance or $150 at the ramp the morning of the tournament. Gerken said the tournament payback will go to 20 percent of the field, one spot for every five boats.
Fishing could be good or it could be tough, he said.
“There was a little mid-week tournament this past week and it took 16 pounds to win it. We hop we will find the fish feeding up for the winter by tournament time. We've not had that real cold spell yet.”
Gerken said the tournament is held each year as a fundraiser for TBFSC and as a membership drive for the organization.
“It's an open tournament so we are hoping to draw some new members in out of it,” he said. “Guys will have to make a decision on tournament day between deer hunting and bass fishing.”
5th Annual Mr Lake Murray Bass Tournament
Sat, Dec 6, 2014
Lake Murray
Dreher Island State Park
Call 201-772-6401
Anglers In Action Bass Challenge Offers Break From Thanksgiving On Saturday
The thing about Thanksgiving is that a person can only eat so much turkey before he just has to do something else.
Around the Lake of the Ozarks that “something else” is the 7th Annual Anglers in Action Big Bass Challenge Saturday.
“Guys look forward to fishing the tournament the Saturday after Thanksgiving every year,” said Charlie Terrell, one of the founding owners of Anglers in Action. “By then they have had enough turkey and they want to get out and do a little fishing.”
Terrell said Anglers in Action was started in the fall of 2007 as a team circuit with qualifying tournaments leading to a championship. The Big Bass Challenge is a different format from regular tournaments, he explained. If a minimum of 100 boats are entered, the tournament pays 15 places on the total weight side, plus 15 spots on the Big Bass side.
“When we first started it was kind of hard for some guys to catch onto. Everybody weighs total fish in a tournament, but you also want to weigh your big bass every time because we pay 15 spots there, too.”
Terrell said teams pay a $200 entry fee, with $2,500 guaranteed for first place and $2,500 for Big Bass. Second place pays $1,200 on down to $200 for 15th place in both categories.
“We are expecting 100 to 125 boats for the tournament,” Terrell said. “It's 38 degrees here now, but it's supposed to warm up a little bit for the weekend. It's supposed to be around 50 degrees Saturday and Sunday.”
While fishing could be a little tough, Terrell noted that it took nearly 40 pounds to win a two-day tournament on the lake this past weekend. He predicted the winner Saturday will have around 20 to 21 pounds.
“I've not fished the lake in a while, but they are phasing in to staging up for the winter so that is why it's a little tough right now. They are catching them on the right banks on buzzbaits, topwater baits, Wiggle Warts and spinnerbaits. Jerkbaits are just starting to come on and when the water cools off the jerkbait and Alabama Rig will come into effect,” Terrell said.
7th Annual Anglers in Action Bass Challenge
Sat, Nov 29, 2014
Lake of the Ozarks
PB2 Ramp
Call 1-866-515-0102
www.midwestfishtournaments.com
Sportsman's Warehouse Randy Hodge not the ideal camera guy!
Sportsman's Warehouse store manager Randy Hodge being very difficult to work with this year!!
Happy Thanksgiving from Sportsman's Warehouse! Come check us out for these great gift ideas!
Sportsman's Warehouse Camping dept manager Steve Smith talks about some great gift ideas that you can use for this Holiday that you probably have not thought of!!
A Little Inshore Action
AnglersChannel.com Insider Vance McCullough took to the marsh with Mack of Grosse Savanne Lodge and Mike Eutsler of Lew's to do some inshore salwater fishing and test Lew's NEW inshore rods and reels spooled with their NEW Lew's Speed Line braid and fluoro. Mack put an Xpress bay boat through some very shallow water to reach the redfish and fill the K2 Cooler. Big drum and redfish were the catch of the day but the scenery and good company made the trip extra special. Check it out!
Montgomery To Spend December Learning The Lake He Lived On During College For The Bassmaster Classic
Even though he graduated from Clemson University which sits on the shores of Lake Hartwell and his apartment was right beside the lake, when he was not in class Andy Montgomery spent most of his fishing time on nearby Lake Keowee.
“Looking back that probably was not the smart thing to do,” said Montgomery who will be one of the pros competing in the Bassmaster Classic on Lake Hartwell in February. “I did not spend much time on Hartwell so I don't have a lot of experience on the lake.”
In fact Montgomery has fished only one major tournament on the lake and that one did not end well for him. In early March Montgomery was able to weigh in only seven fish the first two days of the FLW Tour tournament on the lake and finished 108th with just over 14 pounds.
“That was pretty much my experience on Hartwell,” said Montgomery who graduated from Clemson with an engineering degree but decided to pursue a career in fishing instead. “But the Classic should be totally different. The FLW was in March and the fish were already thinking about spawning. Unless we have a really big warming trend it probably will be wintertime fishing in the Classic.”
The Classic will be held Feb. 20-22, with 56 anglers vying for the title of Bassmaster Classic champion and a share of the $1 million purse. Fifty-five of those qualifiers have been determined. The remaining slot will be filled during the Toyota Bonus Bucks Bassmaster Team Championship to be held on Lake DeGray, Ark., Dec. 9-13.
Since Montgomery is already in and he does not have to fish it, by the time of the Bassmaster Team Championship he hopes to have spent some quality days on Lake Hartwell, learning where the fish hang out.
“I'll probably go up there in the next week or so and I'll try to get to the lake two or three times a week. It's about an hour and a half from my house so I can drive it in one day pretty easily,” said Mongtomgery who lives in Blacksburg, S.C.
Montgomery had a fairly solid year on the Bassmaster Elite circuit, with four top 30 finishes, including an 11th place in the first tournament of the year on Lake Seminole in mid-March.
“I started out really strong, then I had a lull in the middle of the season and I had one really bad tournament,” he said. That was the fourth tournament of the year when he finished 101st at Toledo Bend in early May. Going into the Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year Championship
at Bays de Noc near Escanaba, Mich., in mid-September, Montgomery knew he had to have a strong finish in order to qualify for the Bassmaster Classic.
Montgomery not only finished strong at Bays de Noc, he finished strong for the year and was ranked 35th in the final Angler of the Year standings. The top 39 qualified for the Classic.
But he was not done yet. Although he did not need to fish the Bassmaster Southern Opens, Montgomery entered the final Southern Open on nearby Lake Norman in early October, and won the tournament, boosting his yearly win money by more than $46,000.
Montgomery finished 26th in the only other Bassmaster Classic he has qualified for, the 2011 Classic on the Louisiana Delta, and he hopes to make a much stronger showing in his second chance at pro fishing's top title this February.
Old And New Waters On Nation Schedule For 2015
Some familiar bass fishing waters and some never visited by B.A.S.S. tournaments will play host to competitors in the 2015 Old Milwaukee B.A.S.S. Nation divisionals.
California’s Clear Lake and Mississippi’s Ross Barnett Reservoir are often top choices on the Bassmaster Tournament Trail. But the Pee Dee River Basin in South Carolina and Minnesota’s Vermilion Lake will be hosting B.A.S.S. events for the first time.
Anglers who have qualified for the divisionals will have the great fortune to compete on these lakes, and the top competitor from each state will advance to the 2015 Old Milwaukee B.A.S.S. Nation Championship.
“It’s really exciting to get to go to new places for the B.A.S.S. Nation divisionals,” said Jon Stewart, director of the B.A.S.S. Nation. “It’s one of the many things that make the Nation unique.
“You never know what might happen on these new waters, and I’m ready to get 2015 started to see what the year will bring,” Stewart added.
The first divisional of the season is the 2015 Old Milwaukee B.A.S.S. Nation Western Divisional, April 8-10, on California’s famed Clear Lake. B.A.S.S. has visited this lake — one of the oldest natural lakes in North America — 11 times, including a divisional here just two years ago.
The Western Divisional in 2013 also took place in early April, and Washington’s Jeremy Percifield won the three-day event with a hefty 67 pounds, 6 ounces. The biggest bass of the tournament, caught by Idaho’s Denton Crofts, was 10 pounds, 9 ounces — a weight competitors will definitely strive to find in April 2015.
The last time the Bassmaster Elite Series competed on Clear Lake, Byron Velvick almost hit the 100-pound mark over a four-day tournament, ending with 98 pounds, 6 ounces.
The second divisional of the season is 2,893 miles east of Clear Lake only two weeks later. The Southern Divisional will take place on the Yadkin-Pee Dee River Basin in Georgetown, S.C., April 22-24. The watershed is North Carolina’s second-largest. If anglers aren’t familiar with fishing in the basin, they’re certainly familiar with the surrounding water bodies, Lake Norman and High Rock Lake, sites of several Bassmaster Tournament Trail events, including three Bassmaster Classics on High Rock.
Next up is Ross Barnett Reservoir in Ridgeland, Miss., for the Central Divisional, June 10-12. Barnett hosted a Bassmaster Classic in 1978, which Bobby Murray won with 37 pounds, 9 ounces over three days for the October event. Just three months prior to the 2015 divisional, the pros from the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Central Opens presented by Allstate will compete on Ross Barnett, as well.
The following week, June 17-19, the B.A.S.S. Nation divisionals move 906 miles northeast to Fairmont, W.Va., for the Mid-Atlantic Divisional on the Monongahela River. The Mon has hosted a B.A.S.S. event once — kind of. The northern end of the river is part of the Three Rivers in Pittsburgh, Pa., site of the 2005 Bassmaster Classic. It was a tough tournament, which Kevin VanDam won with only 12 pounds, 15 ounces over three days.
As summer closes, competitors in the Northern Divisional will convene in Minnesota on Vermilion Lake, one of the most scenic lakes in the United States. The 39,000-acre lake could produce mixed bags for the anglers when they visit the fishery Aug. 26-28.
The Connecticut River in Hartford, Conn., ends the season at the 2015 Old Milwaukee B.A.S.S. Nation Eastern Divisional, Sept. 18-20. The B.A.S.S. Nation previously held a divisional tournament on the river in 2007. In addition a Bassmaster Top 100 tournament was held there in 1994 during the same week of September. Veteran pro Roland Martin won that one with 49 pounds, 11 ounces over four days.
Each state sends a team of its top anglers to its respective divisional. The top angler from each state advances to the B.A.S.S. Nation Championship, which will be held in October or November at a site yet to be selected.
Oakley Big Bass Announces 2015 Tournament Schedule
Oakley Big Bass announces the 2015 Tournament schedule here on Anglerschannel.com! Go to the Tournaments page and click on list of trails for the full schedule and all registration info. Here is a snapshot of where they are heading next year
