Strike King and Elite Series Pro Andy Montgomery Previews this upcoming 2013 Season!
Strike King and Elite Series Pro Andy Montgomery sits down with us at the Great Outdoors in Cherryville, NC to discuss his upcoming 3rd year on the Bass Master Elite Series and how he has to approach each and every tournament to get to where he needs to be---and that's in the Winners Circle!!
Saturday Team ProBass Winter Trail Fish-Off sponsored by Carolina Coach & Marine won by Hank Cherry and Craig Chambers
Here are the results for the Team ProBass Winter Trail Saturday Fish-Off on Lake Norman. The Sun results were posted on Friday the 23rd of Feb.
| Saturday Winter Trail FISH OFF Results | ||||
| Place | Name | Big Fish | Total Weight | Winnings |
| 1 | Hank Cherry & Craig Chambers | 4.80 | 18.15 | $2,500 Plus 2BF $100 |
| 2 | Pete Betje & Doug Easton | 6.40 | 17.30 | $1,000 Plus BF $220 |
| 3 | Dave Snyder & Byron O’Daniel | 3.90 | 13.85 | $600 |
| 4 | Kevin Toler & Rodney Lambert | 2.90 | 13.45 | $500 |
| 5 | Justin & Shawn Foster | 3.40 | 13.35 | $300 |
| 6 | Scott Hamrick & Roger Hoover | 3.65 | 12.40 | $200 |
| 7 | Robert Stiltner & Alfred Kiesling | 3.65 | 11.65 | $160 |
| 8 | Rob Digh & Louie Hull | 3.05 | 11.50 | $100 |
| 9 | John Miller & Alan Whitaker | 2.95 | 11.40 | |
| 10 | Kenny Hoyle & Todd Phillips | 4.10 | 11.35 | |
| 11 | Ed Douthit & Kerry Murphy | 3.95 | 11.30 | |
| 12 | Shane LeHew & Adam Waters | 2.55 | 10.90 | |
| 13 | Andy & Chuck Montgomery | 2.95 | 10.90 | |
| 14 | Jason Wilson & Kelly Logan | 2.70 | 10.15 | |
| 15 | Matt Haywood & Donnie Cooper | 4.60 | 9.95 | |
| 16 | Steve Addington & Bucky Helms | 2.20 | 9.80 | |
| 17 | Dale Surrett & Brian Morgan | 4.30 | 9.25 | |
| 18 | John Brown & Russell Hoyle | 2.25 | 9.20 | |
| 19 | Jordan Newsome & Kevin Thomas | 2.55 | 8.60 | |
| 20 | Andrew Moretz & Kevin Stanley | 2.60 | 8.35 | |
| 21 | Paul Foley & Tim Watwood | 2.50 | 8.30 | |
| 22 | David Cooke & Dakota Lineberger | 1.90 | 8.25 | |
| 23 | Nathan Davis & Paul Huskins | 3.50 | 8.20 | |
| 24 | Randy Hedrick & William Snapp | 1.65 | 4.85 | |
| 25 | Todd Evans & Victor Blakenship | 2.15 | 2.15 | |
| 26 | Larry LeHew & Troy LeHew | 0.00 | 0.00 | |
| 27 | Cliff Kirby & Rick Dunstan | 0.00 | 0.00 | |
| 28 | Jerry Lineberger & Kenneth Stamey | 0.00 | 0.00 | |
| 29 | David Hildebran & Gary Little | 0.00 | 0.00 | |
| 30 | Matt McBee & Butch Holder | 0.00 | 0.00 | |
| 31 | Shawn Lawrence & Andrew Shundich | 0.00 | 0.00 | |
| 32 | Kenny Hoyle & Jerry Goble | 0.00 | 0.00 | |
2013 Bass Master Classic Re-cap and Regional Tournament Preview with AC Pro Staffer Rob Digh!
AC Pro Staffer Rob Digh checks in to help us look back at a great 2013 Classic on Grand Lake in OK, plus the tremendous finishes we had by 2 local anglers in Hank Cherry (3rd) and Tracy Adams (6th)!! We preview some of the biggest BFL's and Team Trails coming to a lake near you this weekend!!
Gerald Swindle on Tackle Organization - or NOT!
In less than a minute, Gerald Swindle shares a simple, important tip about the tackle organization system that has played such a big role in his success. Or, at least, he hopes to brighten your day and make you feel better about yourself. From 2013 Bassmaster Classic Media Day.
2013 Bassmaster Classic A Classic Indeed!
Needing 8 pounds and change, Pace only had 4 fish to weigh. They weighed 11-8.
He ran a pattern, something other anglers wish they had done more of. "I got caught up fishing history," said local favorite Jason Christie. Mike McClelland also lamented the fact that he focussed more on specific spots than on a pattern that could be duplicated around a section of the lake.
For his part, Palaniuk defined his pattern to a razor's edge. The only problem, there weren't enough similar spots in the part of the lake he chose to focus on. "I only had 7 or 8 spots. They were all 25-to-30 yards long. The good thing about it is that I didn't waste a lot time running around."
Specifically, Palaniuk keyed on transition areas where channel bend structure shifted from a 45-degree angle to roughly a 70-degree angle. And the structure had to be connected to a big spawning flat. Palaniuk found the pattern last February when he took 3 days to visit Grand Lake in anticipation of the 2013 Classic.
Palaniuk will get his chance again. Today he congratulated Pace, a deserving champion. photos courtesy James Overstreet/B.A.S.S.
Pace similarly keyed on prespawn areas adjacent to spawning pockets. His fish weren't way back in the pockets, but they were off the main lake for the most part. Pace used a football jig and dyed the tips of the trailer orange. You can see his break-down of the pattern and technique that won the 2013 Classic in video section of AnglersChannel.com. You can also watch Pace drag that jig in Horse Creek on an upcoming episode of the Progessive Weekend Bass Wrap Up TV Show on NBC Sports.
Hank Cherry of Maiden, NC placed 3rd in his first Classic. Cherry totaled 49 pounds on the week. Video on the jumbo TV at the weigh in showed him losing a 7-pounder at the boat after a prolonged fight. The crowd hurt for the young man who will almost certainly be abck to fish another Classic another day. He relied on experience on Carolina's Lake Norman, which Cherry says fishes similarly to Grand Lake O' the Cherokees.
Mike Iaconelli used the Berkley Havoc Beat Shad, which he showed us in an AnglersChannel.com video from Media Day earlier this week, to finish 4th with 48-5.
Mike McClelland placed 5th with a total weight of 45-5 that included a strong finish with 17--14 today.
Cliff Pace Wins 2013 Bassmaster Classic, Shares Details
After he hoists the trophy on stage, Cliff Pace sits down and gives details of his winning pattern and lure at the final press conference of the 2013 Bassmaster Classic.
Cliff Pace speaks at Day 2 Press Conference
Cliff Pace answers questions about his two outstanding days on Grand Lake. At the Day 2 press conference for the 2013 Bassmaster Classic!
Day 2 Bassmaster Classic Press Conference
Hear a few of the top contenders talk about the tournament. And find out why Ike cussed-out a dog.
Chris Lane Talks About His Big Day 2 Comeback!
Though he fell short of qualifying for the final day, Chris Lane's 18-pound sack today was a sight better than his 0 on day 1. Chris talks about the difference a day makes. Actually he talks about the similarities between the two days.
Palaniuk Changed-Up, Moved Up on Day 2 of Bassmaster Classic
Brandon Palaniuk took the lead mid-way through the day 2 weigh in. He said he made changed tactics and locations. He hopes to carry that momentum into day 3 and end up in the Super Six, yet again.
From the Water - 2013 Bassmaster Classic Day 2 Footage!
What a ZOO! Watch as the flotilla follows Ike when we roll up on Jason Christie. The two were close to each other for a few minutes. Matt Lee caught one for our camera at the 2013 Bassmaster Classic!
Ike, KVD at Press Conference
Mike Iaconelli jumped into a tie for the lead with 21-8. Kevin VanDam lurks nearby in 4th. They speak at the press conference, as does Hank Cherry, currently 3rd.
Jason Christie Reviews Solid Start to 2013 Bassmaster Classic
Local favorite Jason Christie shouldered the pressure and brought 18-12 to the Classic stage. He tells how he did it - you may be surprised at some of the things he has to say.
Hank Cherry Shares Day 1 Pattern Details
He had nearly 21 pounds on his first day of Classic competition and now Hank Cherry is in 3rd place at the 43rd Bassmaster Classic. He reveals quite a bit about his pattern and how his Carolina roots on Lake Norman helped him today.
Cliff Sets the Pace
Cliff Pace smoked 'em on frigid Grand Lake. He put 21 pounds, 8 ounces on the scale, six-and-half of that in one bite. He talks about decisions that lead to his successful start in the 2013 Bassmaster Classic.
Adams, Carter Talk Classic Day 1
Tracy Adams of North Carolina and John Carter, a school teacher from up north, both smashed 'em today on Grand Lake. The two anglers talk.
Rapala Roles Out NEW Scatter Rap Line of Lures at Classic Expo!
As promised by Brandon Palaniuk at yesterday's Media Day, Rapala today unveiled the NEW Scatter Rap line of lures at the Bassmaster Classic Outdoor Expo. These dogs will hunt. And who better to give you your FIRST look at them than Rapala pro staffer and lure designer, Bassmaster Elite Series Pro Bernie Schultz.
NOT a Jerkbait! part 2
More fun from 2013 Bassmaster Classic Media Day - Ish Monroe leads the parade of pros who hope to catch a few bass on something other than a jerkbait in the cold water on Grand Lake this week.
NOT a Jerkbait! part 1
Jerkbaits are fine fish-catchers but a handful of Classic contenders have heard enough about them this week. In this segment G Man, Ike, Ish and others show us some lures that will work in the 43rd Bassmaster Classic. And they are NOT jerkbaits!
Mike Stephens and Hunter Hicks win the Team ProBass Winter Trail Fish-Off sponsored by Carolina Coach & Marine
Here are the results for the Team ProBass Winter Trail Sunday Fish-Off on Lake Norman:
| Sunday Winter Trail FISH OFF Results | |||||
| Place | Team # | Name | Big Fish | Total Weight | Winnings |
| 1 | 79 | Mike Stephens & Hunter Hicks | 4.1 | 15.75 | $2,600 |
| 2 | 19 | John Miller & Alan Whitaker | 3.65 | 13.95 | $1,200 |
| 3 | 65 | Cliff Kirby & Rick Dunstan | 4.6 | 13.45 | $700 |
| 4 | 27 | Brian Morgan & Anthony Lutz | 3.3 | 12.85 | $580 |
| 5 | 26 | Drew Montgomery & Kenny Seagle | 3.5 | 12.75 | $460 |
| 6 | 18 | Hank Cherry & Shane Lineberger | 2.6 | 11.65 | $300 |
| 7 | 47 | Scott Tate & Rick White | 3.2 | 11.65 | $220 |
| 8 | 57 | Shane LeHew & Adam Waters | 3.45 | 11.6 | $110 |
| 9 | 2 | Scott Hamrick & Roger Hoover | 3.65 | 11.25 | |
| 10 | 1 | Pete Bejte & Doug Easton | 3.55 | 11.1 | |
| 11 | 39 | Terry Royston & Graham Rushing | 2.95 | 10.8 | |
| 12 | 55 | Nick Miller & Brandon Brickweg | 2.75 | 10.45 | |
| 13 | 52 | Jason Wilson & Matt Stout | 2.3 | 10.25 | |
| 14 | 6 | Jerry Goble & Kenny Hoyle | 2.55 | 10 | |
| 15 | 28 | Tom Curtis & Chad Schroeder | 2.7 | 9.75 | |
| 16 | 74 | Brian Key & Hunter Key | 3.45 | 9.65 | |
| 17 | 44 | Shane Hawkins & Mark Bolding | 2.2 | 9.4 | |
| 18 | 62 | Tyler Beam & Eric Self | 5.7 | 8.7 | BF $240 |
| 19 | 76 | Rocky Franklin & Yank Latuche | 4.7 | 8.65 | 2BF $110 |
| 20 | 15 | Mike & Brian Branch | 2.35 | 8.6 | |
| 21 | 21 | Darin Fabiano & Jay Sherrill | 2.65 | 8 | |
| 22 | 22 | Mark Zoltanski | 2.3 | 6.6 | |
| 23 | 56 | Tim Harris & Glenn Jones | 4.05 | 5.35 | |
| 24 | 4 | Jeremy Joyner & Joe Robbins | 2.9 | 5.15 | |
| 25 | 58 | Larry LeHew & Troy LeHew | 0 | 0 | |
| 26 | 40 | Van Sexton & Rick McKenzie | 0 | 0 | |
| 27 | 48 | Johnny Allen & Bobby Bill | 0 | 0 | |
| 28 | 67 | Jeff O’Conner & Joshua Goode | 0 | 0 | |
| 29 | 29 | Matt McBee & Mark Weaver | 0 | 0 | |
| 30 | 61 | Jason Yount & Alton Rockett | 0 | 0 | |
| 31 | 69 | Michael Smith & Luke Horn | 0 | 0 | |
| 32 | 32 | Larry Neil & Mark Beaver | 0 | 0 | |
| 33 | 13 | Steve Addington & Bucky Helms | 0 | 0 | |
| 34 | 41 | Keith Westwick & Walter Warren | 0 | 0 | |
| 35 | 72 | Phillip Frady & Robert Webb | 0 | 0 | |
Bitter Cold, Biting Bass as Bassmaster Classic Gets Underway
Professional bass anglers are bad about sandbagging before a tournament. The 43rd Bassmaster Classic has been no exception. The usual poor-mouthing has been made all the easier by frigid weather conditions.
But the anglers have been catching some quality bass in practice. And these are northern strain fish that don't mind the cold as much as do the fishermen.
"It's still going to take 18 or 19 pounds a day to win," said Mike Iaconelli.
Fifteen pounds a day will put an angler near the top, but he will likely need more than that if he wants to hoist the trophy on Sunday.
Jerkbaits have been the the subject of much discussion this week. A handful of pros said today they hope to catch fish on other lures this week. Therefore, we put together a video today titled "This is NOT a jerkbait!" I tried to post it tonight but the internet signal was too weak. I will keep trying. I may have to wait until the media center opens tomorrow, but I will share the anglers' fun responses with y'all ASAP.
The temperature at blastoff tomorrow is expected to be 23 degrees, but thanks to the wind chill factor, it will feel like 13. That's before the anglers drop the hammer and run 70 mph across the water.
Everyone here is buzzing about the big warm up this weekend when Sunday's high might peak at 58 degrees.
Look for those jerkbaits to play a role, along with various types of jigs, crankbaits, Chatterbaits, even Rat-L-Trap type lures.
And look for some weight to hit the scale at the BOK Center in Tulsa Oklahoma!
Big Bags, Big Fish Expected At Spring Catt Opener On Wateree Saturday
Stevey Walker and Craig Matthews caught 18.03 to win the TOM CATT tournament on Wateree last week
The last Saturday in February has always been the opening date for the Carolina Anglers Team Tournament's Spring Trail on Lake Wateree and historically the fishing has been excellent, said CATT tournament owner Brett Collins.
Collins said he expects the same kind of outcome for the 2013 opener on Wateree Saturday.
“Last year the winning weight was almost 24 pounds and the big fish was just shy of 8 pounds,” Collins said.
“Look for some multiple bags over 20 pounds Saturday and plenty of 4- and 5-pounders to go around. Several of the guys in the TOM CATT on Wateree last Saturday reported catching 15 to 20 bass.”
In fact, Collins noted, Stevey Walker and Craig Mathews took 1st place in the TOM CATT at Lake Wateree with 5 bass that weighed 18 pounds, 3 ounces, and won $520. Butch Williams, who finished 7th with 8.04 pounds, had the big fish at 6.09 pounds.
“It does not take much to push the fish up shallow at Wateree,” Collins said, “and the water level has been just right this month for the bass to start pulling up on the points. Bass are being caught on a variety of baits right now, but the best bet is to stick with a jig and a shallow crankbait.”
Collins said the Wateree opener has been averaging about 50 boats and he expects about the same number for Saturday's tournament.
“In 2012 CATT paid back over $50,000 on Lake Wateree for the third years in a row and we hope to break that mark this year,” he said.
The Wateree Spring Trail includes five qualifiers: Feb. 23, March 2, March 9, March 16 and March 23, with the final April 6, all out of Clearwater Cove. The 2013 CATT Classic will be held May 18-19 on Kerr Lake.
The CATT Trail, Old North CATT Trail and Yadkin CATT pay back 100 percent of entry fees.
A team only has to enter one original CATT qualifier on a lake to be eligible to enter the final on that lake.
CATT Membership is $30 per person and the entry fee for a CATT qualifier is $80 per team by mail, $90 per team if paid at the ramp. The CATT Final entry fee is $120 per team, $130 if paid at the ramp.
The optional CATT BONUS (side pot) is $25, with $20 of that going into the total paid back to the highest finishing team in the side pot with $5 going to pay for plaques for Final winners.
Teams from the original CATT 2012 Summer, 2012 Fall, and 2013 Spring Trails will be eligible to enter the 2013 CATT Classic. The Classic entry fee is $225 per team, $250 if paid at the pre- Classic meeting or at the ramp. The optional BONUS (side pot) fee of $50 will go into the total to be paid back to the top two teams in the side pot in a 70-30 split.
The CATT Classic is a 100 percent payback event. CATT Classic entry fees, BONUS dollars and the CATT Classic fund will make up the CATT Classic purse.
Carolina Anglers Team Trail
Sat, Feb 23, 2013
Lake Wateree
Clearwater Cove Marina
Call Brett Collins 803-413-7521
Boats Unlimited Bass Trail Qualifier #1 Results - Shearon Harris - Feb 16, 2013
1st Place team Jaime Fajardo and Phillip Eakes
60 teams showed up for the 1st qualifying tournament of the 2013 Boats Unlimited NC Team Tournament Bass ‪Trail. The weather man hit it just about on the nose with the forecast. 42 degrees in the morning and about 38
‪for the rest of the day with cold rain turning to big snowflakes with winds 5 to 10 mph. It was a very tough day ‪for these determined anglers! Turnout would have been more if the weather had been nicer.
‪Jaime Fajardo & Phillip Eakes took 1st place honors with 4 bass weighing 24.15 lbs. They won the 1st place money & the Tournament Within A Tournament for a total of $2,447 plus the BOATS UNLIMITED NC 1st
‪place $1,000 bonus for a grand total of $3,447. Upon verification, they will also receive the Stratos 2X bonus, $3,447, bringing their total winnings to a whopping $6,894 !! Billy & Stump Bledsoe won 2nd place, 1st Place ‪Big Fish and 2nd place TWT for a grand total of $1,977.
‪Only 92 fish were weighed in for a total weight of 258 pounds. Most fish were caught from 3 to 15 feet of water on a variety of baits including jerk baits, Senkos, big plastic worms, jigs & crankbaits for the most part. The ‪hot baits for the day reported to be crankbaits! Water temps were around 48 degrees. I want to thank all the ‪anglers that participated and that support this trail.
Our next tournament will be the CBS Quality Cars
‪NC Triangle Area Team Bass Spring Mini Trail Qualifier #1
‪at Shearon Harris, this Saturday February 23rd out of Holleman's Crossing Ramp.
All the information on our tournaments can be found at: www.piedmontbassclassics.com
2nd Place team Billy and Stump Bledsoe
Now here are the full results:
1st Place: Jaime Fajardo & Phillip Eakes of Fuquay-Varina & Rougemont...4 bass...24.15 lbs...$1,152
2nd Place: Billy & Stump Bledsoe of Fayetteville & Hope Mills...4 bass...18.04 lbs...$624
3rd Place: Stephen Lasher & Cody Shuffler of Bahama & Hickory...4 bass...13.82 lbs...$528
4th Place: Curtis & Charles Vaughn of Rougemont & Timberlake...2 bass...13.16 lbs...$480
5th Place: Jerry Marshburn & Rick Ohlson of Sanford & Garner...5 bass...12.99 lbs...$384
6th Place: Allen White & Drew Johnson of Clayton...4 bass...12.66 lbs...$336
7th Place: Geno McCree & Phillip Johnson of Durham...5 bass...11.37 lbs...$288
8th Place: Ricky Petty & Jason Michael of Gibsonville & Reidsville...4 bass...11.21 lbs...$240
9th Place: Neil Roberson & Jeff Barfield of Rocky Mount & Holly Springs...4 bass...11.18 lbs...$240
10th Place: Rodger Clary & Merle Knott of Butner & Durham...2 bass...10.55 lbs...$192
11th Place: John White & Jayme Herron of Wake Forrest & Smithfield...3 bass...10.15 lbs...$192
12th Place: KC Choosakul & Michael Allen of Cameron & Sanford...5 bass...10.01 lbs...$144
1st Place Big Fish..2nd Place Team above: 7.77 lbs...$798
2nd Place Big Fish..6th Place Team above: 7.61 lbs...$342
1st Place TWT..1st Place Team above: 24.15 lbs...$1,295
2nd Place TWT..2nd Place Team above: 18.04 lbs...$555
‪For all our tournament information contact:
‪Phil McCarson ... Tournament Director
‪919-471-1571 or 919-971-5042
‪email: [email protected]
‪web: www.piedmontbassclassics.com
Media Day at the Classic!
The delightful snow that had residents sledding down highway overpass embankments and kids engaging in snowball fights yesterday has turned into cold rain this morning and it's expected to continue throughout the day.
That means that while our Classic competitors are fielding questions at Media Day the lake is changing.
Grand Lake, 90 miles northeast of the festivities in Tulsa, will likely turn muddy. If it takes a couple of days to do so, as some locals expect, then we may see heavy weights out of the gate on day 1 followed by a changing bite as the tournament wears on.
There's much speculation that the big bass are eating right now. There have been reports of 25-pound stringers in practice.
We'll try to dig up some intel at the luncheon today and keep our AnglersChannel.com followers ahead of the game.
Right now, if you're playing fantasy fishing, go ahead and pick Kevin VanDam. He's not talking a lot, but he has a sly smile on his face and this is his type of tournament - pattern-based and with changeable conditions that require daily, if not hourly adjustments.
Jason Christie is also a no-brainer, as is Tommy Biffle. Those who've talked with him say Biffle is on some really good, really hard to find stuff in some unusual places. The home field advantage will be just that this week.
Well, I'm fixin' to go listen to a bunch of, "aw shucks, I'm not on anything real strong" and other tales from 50-some-odd guys who hope to win the Classic trophy and $500,000. As Rick Clunn once told me during a Media Day interview, "I am on auto pilot right now. I can sit here and answer your questions but my mind is out on the water still trying to put the puzzle together."
With the constant change in weather, our pros are likely to have their heads on Grand Lake's water near Grove, OK as their butts are in their boats at the Tulsa Expo Pavillion this morning.
Welcome to the White Classic!
AnglersChannel.com is on location in Tulsa, OK for the 43rd Bassmaster Classic. When the plane touched down it did so on a blanket of white.
No matter how Classic 43 ends, it has already made history before the first competition round takes place. This will be known as "The White Classic".
If it is snowing like this in Tulsa, it can only be more extreme up in Grove, OK where the anglers will launch to fish Grand Lake O' the Cherokees.
Water temperature will play a role, perhaps not as much as some of us expect.
And snow indicates a low pressure system which generally encourages bass to bite.
The jerkbait bite will be strong as long as water stays clear.
If the water takes a stain from melted snow and rain the next couple of days, we could certainly see the football jig take over as the dominant lure when bass lock down on hard structure.
Stay tuned. It's going to be an educational week.
Bassmaster Classic Preview With Ott Defoe
Deep Insights: To Cast or Not to Cast
How bass-fishing phenom Ott DeFoe uses Humminbird Side Imaging, and soon to be 360, in deep water to decide whether to fish or move on
Grand Lake, Oklahoma (02/20/2013) - Time is always of the essence during tournaments. Fish found throughout pre-fishing still might be there. Then again… maybe not.
There was an era when countless hours were exhausted casting into deep-water just to figure out whether the fish were in the area or had turned tail and absconded the scene. Not anymore, however, when using Humminbird Side Imaging and new 360.
Enter Tennessee Elite pro Ott DeFoe - Bassmaster’s 2011 Rookie of the Year, coming in 4th for Angler of the Year during that same time frame, as well an astonishing 2nd runner up for the esteemed title in 2012. The 27-year-old has been using Side Imaging, and will be using 360 in the future, to literally see firsthand whether he will be making a cast or moving on.
One fish two fish
“I first realized how crucial Side Imaging was in 2010, the only year I didn’t have it on my boat,” DeFoe says. “Immediately I noticed the amount of time I was spending fishing for bass that weren’t even there. And then I confirmed the importance of this technology in one single cast.”
It was in 2012 when DeFoe was pre-fishing his home waters of Douglas Lake, Tennessee, and came to a deep water area off a point that usually holds fish. “But I could see on Side Imaging there were no fish there, so I didn’t make a cast” he added. “And then I went around the corner and saw one single fish, made a cast to it and, Wham!, it whacked my bladebait. One fish. A single cast.” Defoe now understood the power of Side Imaging. A few feet down the rock-strewn bottom in deep-water and he spied another single fish. Three lobs later and that fish was in the boat, as well.”
Point made.
“Nowadays, during tournaments with a deep-water bite, I find myself moving along at idle speed looking for fish while watching the screen of my Humminbird in Side Imaging mode more than I am casting,” DeFoe claims. “If I don’t see fish, I don’t cast. The technology’s that good. I’m covering more water and catching more fish because of it. Basically, if I’m in someone else’s boat without it, I feel like a golfer’s lost ball in high weeds.”
Look out below… and above
DeFoe’s probed the depths with Side Imaging for bass in water as deep as 70 feet—the technology working wonders in water fathoms deeper for fish that live lower yet.
But the majority of his deep water casts are made in water up to 40 feet, where he sets his sonar to search 100 feet to the sides for a better defined look at what lies below. If DeFoe finds heavy cover like a freshly-made crib or brush pile he’ll still make a few casts, just in case fish are tucked deep within its innards. But if cruising over open water with structure like rocks or slab wood, he’ll move on until he marks fish.
The Elite pro has also used Side Imaging to scan the upper reaches of the water column for schooling fish suspended over deep water flats, as well.“Humminbird’s new 360 is really going to open up this bite to anyone willing to use it,” he says.
Thank goodness for catch and release.
Believer
Although Ott Defoe’s career hasn’t been long in the making, he’s the rich cream that’s instantaneously risen to the top. And Humminbird Side Imaging has been there the majority of his professional time on the water. Seeing fish firsthand, casting to them and catching them has made a believer out of this phenomenal bass fisher. And it will for you, too.
About Johnson Outdoors, Inc.
Johnson Outdoors Marine Electronics, Inc. consists of the Humminbird, LakeMaster, Minn Kota and Cannon brands. Humminbird® is a leading innovator and manufacturer of fishfinders, fishfinder/GPS combo units, ice flashers and digital depth gauges. LakeMaster® is the premier brand of high-definition electronic fishing charts. Minn Kota® is the world’s leading manufacturer of electric trolling motors, as well as offers a complete line of shallow water anchors, battery chargers and marine accessories. Cannon® is the leader in controlled-depth fishing and includes a full line of downrigger products and accessories.
Big Bass Biting For Airport Marine Opener On Jordan Lake, But Fishing Will Be Crowded
Here's a pic from the Feb 2012 tournament on Jordan. It took 20.65 lbs to win it!
The big bass have been on a feeding frenzy in Alabama's Jordan Lake, so the fishing should be very good for the opening tournament in the 2013 Airport Marine Tournament Trail Saturday. But, anglers might have to wait in line to cast at a bass, said tournament director Flynn Gerald.
“There are about five or six other tournaments down there on the Jordan River besides us this weekend, so it's going to be crowded,” Gerald said. “I don't know what effect that might have on our tournament.”
However, Gerald noted that Airport Marine has the biggest tournament payout in the region.
“I think the other tournaments pay maybe $1,000 for first place at most and then maybe four or five places. We are paying up to $6,000 for first place and paying 15 or 16 places.”
What makes that big purse even more attractive, he noted, is that it comes with only a $100 entry fee per boat.
“We actually pay back more money than we take in and no other tournament does that. If you buy a boat from us and win we give you $3,000 just for buying the boat from Airport Marine. If it's a Triton you get another $7,000. If you run an Evinrude that's $5,000 more, and if you tow your boat with a truck from Gilmore Ford you get another $5,000. That adds up to a possible $23,000. And, if you fish with a kid or as a mixed couple you get another $500.”
Another bonus, he said, is anglers only have to fish one tournament in the six-tournament series to qualify for the Classic which also has a $100 entry fee and carries a potential first place prize of $50,000.
Some anglers, he said, want to double up Saturday and fish one of the other tournaments along with the Airport marine tournament.
“I will work with anybody as much as I can. But our tournament pays back so much they will have to blast off with us Saturday morning. If they can make arrangements with the tournament across the river to sign up with them and then blast off with us, fine. I've set our scales up where they can weigh in with us and then with the other tournament.”
Gerald said the weather is expected to be good for the tournament, with a slight chance of rain Saturday. Some rain fell Monday night which could muddy the water a little, he added.
“I think we are going to have really good fishing Saturday. The weather is going to dictate a mixed bag and I don't believe the spots (spotted bass) will dominate in this tournament. For whatever reason the big fish are feeding right now so the fishing will be great.”
The only problem, he said, is all the anglers that will be on the lake this Saturday.
“But the following Wednesday we will be right back down at Jordan and there won't be anybody fishing but us,” he said. The Airport Marine Midweek EZ Solo Trail, which annually draws a large number of boats on Wednesdays – starts Feb. 27.
“No skiers, No jet skis, no pontoons and no partners that always causes you to lose. Just us fishermen that don't have to work or won't work. We can fish alone and have the opportunity to be a hero or a zero” Gerald said.
“Entry fee for the mid-week trail is $70 per boat with an optional $5 big fish pot. There is a one time $30 initiation fee to be paid back in full at the Classic.
Airport Marine Tournament Trail
Sat, Feb 23, 2013
Jordan Lake - AL
Bonner's Landing
Call Flynn Gerald 205-678-9666
Barn Burner Expected For Chattanooga Bass Association Opener On Chickamauga Saturday
Here's a nice football from a previous CBA tournament!
Tournament director Justin Medley has predicted an “absolute barn burner” for the Chattanooga Bass Association’s first tournament of the year on Chickamauga Lake Saturday – and with good reason.
“There have been tons of fish over 8 pounds and a good many fish over 10 pounds caught in Chickamauga in the past few weeks. There was a dogfight on the lake last Sunday in a 19-boat tournament. Four bags over 30 pounds were weighed in and three fish over 10 pounds were weighed in.”
The Chattanooga Bass Association tournament will be the first tournament on the lake this year with the caliber of fishermen it draws regularly, so the weigh-in should be really impressive, he said.
“We expect to see some really heavy weights. It will probably take 35 pounds to win the tournament and 30 pounds to even get in the top 15.”
Anglers can weigh in largemouth bass at least 15 inches long and Kentucky spotted bass at least 12 inches long. Each contestant may also weigh one smallmouth bass at least 18 inches long. The big fish in a tournament will win 60 percent of the big fish pot with 20 percent paid to anglers who have the biggest fish in the other two species.
Medley said between 80 and 100 boats are expected for the season opener.
“Everybody is ready to get the season started. This is our 36th consecutive year and it's an open event. We are attracting anglers from more than 150 miles away. Even people who don't fish will be at the weigh-in Saturday at Chester Frost Park.”
First place in the CBA tournaments pays $2,000. Fishermen must fish seven of the regular season events to qualify for the classic at the end of the year. At the classic first place is guaranteed $10,000. Last year more than $60,000 in cash and prizes was awarded at the classic, Medley said.
The tournaments are family-friendly, he noted, with special divisions for adult-youth teams and new teams.
“Both the new and youth teams will compete against other new and youth teams. The youths in youth teams get to fish at half the entry fee and the highest finishing youth team in an event wins free entry into the following tournament The same applies to the new teams. The highest finishing new teams get free entry into the next event.”
The Chattanooga Bass Association requires a one-time $50 process feet for each participant who wants to receive points towards entry into the year-end classic and receive year-end prizes and new team prizes. The entry fee is $120 per boat for each tournament, $60 for a youth division team.
A youth division team must have one participant who is 16 years or younger at the time he purchases his process number. A new team is one that did not compete in more than one CBA open event during the 2012 season.
The Chattanooga Bass Association is a non-profit community service organization founded by community leaders in 1976. It was designed to offer a top quality open fishing circuit to Chattanooga and surrounding areas; while enhancing Chattanooga’s economic growth and recreational potential.
Chattanooga Bass Association
Sat, Feb 23, 2013
Chickamauga Lake
Chester Frost Park
Call Justin Medley 423-667-5054
RANGER BOATS SENDS STRONG FIELD INTO 2013 BASSMASTER CLASSIC
Ranger Pros in the 2013 Bassmaster Classic:
Tommy Biffle – B.A.S.S. Elite Series qualifier
Jason Christie – B.A.S.S. Opens qualifier
Mark Dove – B.A.S.S. Nation Championship qualifier
Jared Knuth – B.A.S.S. Nation Championship qualifier
Ish Monroe – B.A.S.S. Elite Series qualifier
Takahiro Omori – B.A.S.S. Series qualifier
David Walker – B.A.S.S. Elite Series qualifier
In addition to its field of qualifiers, Ranger Boats enters the 2013 Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo with one of the industry’s most sought-after displays. The Expo will serve as the official unveiling of Ranger’s all-new Tournament Series aluminum line, offering customers a first-hand look at the new 17-foot-8-inch and 18-foot-8-inch models. The factory display is further highlighted by the Z520C Comanche, the all-new Ranger flagship many of the Classic pros will be fishing from this season. Visitors to the booth will also be eligible for Ranger’s 45th Anniversary retail promotion, offering up to $1,450 in bonus benefits with a qualified purchase.
Ranger founder and Hall of Famer Forrest L. Wood will also be present at the display, along with some of the greatest anglers to ever take to the weigh-in stand. Visitors to the Ranger booth can meet with and gain professional insight from a collection of Ranger loyalists, who, between them, have amassed several Bassmaster Classic titles and millions of dollars in combined career winnings.
Appearing in the Ranger Boats booth:
Forrest L. Wood
Hank Parker
Jimmy Houston
Denny Brauer
Jay Yelas
For Bassmaster Classic attendees – and those who wish they were – who want behind-the-scenes access to the tournament, inside looks at Ranger products and personalities or a chance to win prizes, follow Ranger Boats on Twitter (@RangerBoats) or become a fan on Facebook.
About Ranger Boats
Headquartered in Flippin, Ark., Ranger Boats is the nation's premier manufacturer of legendary fiberglass and aluminum fishing boats, which include series of bass, multi-species, fish 'n play, water fowl utility and saltwater boats. Founded in 1968 by Forrest L. Wood, Ranger Boats continues its commitment to building the highest-quality, strongest-performing boats on the water. For more information, go to RangerBoats.com.
"retired" Evinrude Pro Denny Brauer Wins Everstart On Toledo Bend!
Oddly enough, the fish-close strategy played into his hands as the day 1 start was delayed by a 3-hour fog delay.
When the fog lifted, many anglers endured painful rides over big waves as they ran to far-flung reaches of the monstrous reservoir.
Brauer just pitched a Strike King Premier Pro Model Jig and Rage Craw Trailer around nearby docks for three days.
He piled-up 56 pounds, 8 ounces and won by a margin of 2-12.
Way to enjoy retirement, Mr. Brauer!
2013 Carolina's Bass Challenge brings SNOW and $15,000 to winners-Full results here!
With 170 teams showing up on a cold morning in Feb, you had to expect the stakes were high. It's just not normal to see these types of turnouts for a team trail even in early spring with the Spawn at full tilt. Well, times have changed, and the CBC has created one heck of a following and some incredible payouts to boot. Jason Wilson and Kelly Logan brought in 15.44 Lbs to win the $10,000 1st place prize, but because they were also in the highest place finishing Skeeter/Yamaha rig, they collected another $5,000 to bring their one day haul to $15,000! Congrats to all who fished, and click on the attachment at the bottom for a full breakout of the weights, with BF included as well.
2013 CBC Lake Norman Champions Kelly Logan and Jason Wilson
2013 CBC 2nd Place Team of Jerry Goble and Todd Phillips: ALL SMILES WITH THIER $5000 Check in Hand!!
Anglers Will Petty and Barry Bost hold up their Snow Stringer!
2013 CBC Lake Norman Snow Covered BOAT!!
Cbc Lake Norman Champions Jason Wilson And Kelly Logan Take Home $15,000!!
On one of the wildest weather days ever, 170 teams turned out for the 1st CBC NC Div event on Lake Norman and with snow falling throughout the weigh-in, Jason Wilson and Kelly Logan take home ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS for every LB they weighed in.....15.44 Lbs equated to a $15,000 payday--Click to hear them talk about it!
Snowfall Weigh-In? Thats Exactly What We Had At The Cbc Lake Norman Event This Afternoon
Ever seen or been at a weigh-in with snowfall? Well, neither had we until today out at Lake Norman for the 2nd event of this years Carolina's Bass Challenge. This is not long but gives you a real good idea just how unique this really was!!
2013 Anglers Choice Marine Team Trail Preview With Director Chris Lucas
Anglers Choice Marine Team Trail Director Chris Lucas checks in before kicking off what most think will be one of the top team trails in the country for 2013. With almost a 200 boat average last year, and the addition of a North Carolina division, turn outs and paybacks look to be at all time highs starting in March at Smith Mtn Lake!
FLW Pros Entertain School Kids, and Vice Versa
The day before competition began at Lake Okeechobee, a few FLW Tour pros visited Westside Elementary School in Clewiston, Fla. They read books and introduced kids to the sport of tournament fishing, along with the boats and equipment used by modern anglers. it's hard to say who had more fun, the kids or the grownups.
Soft Plastics Ban - Coming to Your State Next?
On January 17th in the state of Maine, State Representative Paul Davis introduced a bill to outlaw the use of all “rubber” lures.
Representative Davis is so disconnected from the outdoors lifestyle that he thinks rubber is a standard material in the production of fishing lures. That’s the level of ignorance we, as anglers, are fighting just to protect our sport and our opportunities to engage in it.
All soft lures would likely be lumped into the “rubber” category by bureaucrats who don’t know any better and simply don’t care.
The politicians in this story are separated from most of us by distance. But, as the theory goes, none of us is separated from anyone else on the planet by more than just a few contacts. The faulty logic exhibited by Representative Davis will, without doubt, be embraced by other politicians in other states who desperately want to prove to their ultra-liberal constituency that they too are working for ‘CHANGE’.
It’s happening in Maine now. But no state is immune from the current wave of bias against wholesome family recreation.
Now is the time for action, no matter where you live. If you’re reading this and you don’t take 15 seconds to click a couple of buttons on your computer screen . . .
And to the vast majority of sportsmen who do care and do respond to this call for help – THANKS!
Click below to help:
http://keepamericafishing.salsalabs.com/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=8vndooeBSDLf%2F74sUfuKEYtY9Jdl4baM
Robinson Looking For A Reason To Dance Again In His Second Bassmaster Classic
Marty Robinson of Lyman, SC. Photo credits Bassmaster/James Overstreet
Marty Robinson was so pumped for the first day weigh-in of his first Bassmaster Classic last year on the Red River in Louisiana that he started dancing on the deck of his boat.
Robinson, who loves to dance with his wife, had told her jokingly that when he made his first Classic he was going to dance, “and she held me to it,” he said. “ Anytime you come out on the big stage like that, you see all the fans and start feeling the music and adrenaline takes over.”
That was his first Bassmaster Classic and he finished 29th. The 2013 Bassmaster Classic next week on Oklahoma's Grand lake of the Cherokees will be his second and the Lyman, S.C., pro hopes he has a lot more to inspire some dancing moves than adrenaline.
“In your first Classic it's hard to take in everything. I think the second time around you are over the jitters and can fish a little more relaxed, make better decisions and don't rush yourself like the first time,” he said.
And BASS could not have picked a better lake for the Classic, Robinson said, because not only does it fish to his strengths, it has been very, very good to him in previous tournaments. He finished 7th in his first Elite Series tournament on the lake in 2007, his first top 10 finish in the series, and last November Robinson and his partner James Blythe topped the field at the 4th annual Fish & Chips combination fishing and Texas Hold’em Poker tournament on Grand Lake. In two days of tournament competition, he brought in a total of 35.93 pounds that included a day two limit of 20.04 pounds, the only 20-pound bag of the tournament.
Even the 2007 Elite tournament, which was held in the hot summer, should help him in this Classic, Robinson said.
“The pattern I fished then probably won't come into play a whole lot in the Classic, but some of the areas I caught those fish in will. In that tournament I weighed in several 20-pound bags and when you catch them like that in a pretty good area you know they live there,” he said.
“Each day I would have fish follow up. I'd catch a 4-pounder and there would be 10 to 15 bass with it, so there are a lot of quality fish in those areas. I might have to catch them a little different, but I know there are some good fish there – and any time you do well on a lake it builds your confidence.”
Grand Lake matches his style of fishing, Robinson said.
“It's got a lot of rock and it's a really good jig lake. It's also a good cranking lake and those are the two ways I like to catch fish. It's also got a lot of docks and I like to fish docks.”
Robinson said many of the places he caught fish in the Fish & Chips tournament last November should also be good spots to fish next week.
He plans to spend the pre-Classic practice period Friday-Sunday looking for fish in medium depth areas, the 10- to 15-foot zone, he said. Then on the final practice day next Wednesday before the start of the Classic he'll be doing some last minute checks on potentially productive spots.
“The fish in those deeper zones are a little harder to find, so I'll look for them in practice. In the Classic I can always run down a stretch of bank and check the shallow water fishing.”
Robinson, who earned the nickname Marty the Party with his dancing moves in the 2012 Classic, is hoping for a good reason to bust some moves on-stage next week.
“It just depends on how the first day goes,” he said. “If I have something good to bring in I probably will be dancing.”
Bassmaster Classic Preview
Feb 22-24, 2013
Grand Lake
Entries And Payback Keep Growing As Carolinas Bass Challenge Heads To Lake Norman
Shane Lehew and Larry Lahew won on Norman in 2012!
The Carolinas Bass Challenge keeps flying skyward like a rocket to Mars with big entries and even bigger paydays for fishermen – and it's expected to keep right on sailing Saturday with the North Carolina Division qualifier on Lake Norman.
“Last year we had over 140 teams enter the Lake Norman tournament and it was the biggest payout over the qualifiers,” said Carolinas Bass Challenge owner-director Brett Collins. “Shane Lineberger and Hank Cherry took home $12,500 for the win in that tournament.”
Collins said that with entries coming in at the pace they have been the tournament Saturday could top 200 teams.
“Several teams from Virginia have entered and some South Carolina teams will be in there along with the North Carolina guys,” he said.
The official launch site is Pinnacle Landing on Highway 150, but Collins said teams will be allowed to put in at other sites and come to the launch by water.
“Fishing has been good at times on Lake Norman and in February it is always good,” he said, adding that he expects it will take 16 to 18pounds to win.
“Alabama Rigs are still taking a lot of bass, but the jig and crankbaits will bring in their share,” he said.
Each CBC has an off limit period starting the Sunday night before the event at 12 a.m. and extends the entire week up to Saturday morning. Winners at each tournament are polygraphed.
“We are guaranteeing First Place a minimum of $8,000 at each CBC Qualifier,” Collins said. “In 2012 First Place winners at CBC events averaged taking home $10,000.”
Also new for 2013, he added, the highest placing Skeeter/Yamaha owner will take home a $5,000 bonus, no matter the year of the boat. The Skeeter Real Money Program sanctions all the CBC events.
“This year we added Lakes Hartwell and Clarks Hill to the South Carolina CBC schedule and we added Lakes Jordan and Falls to the North Carolina schedule,” Collins said.
“Two Skeeter TZX190/150 Yamaha HPDI boat rigs will be awarded with one going to the winning team at the South Carolina Championship at Lake Hartwell in September. Another will be awarded at the September North Carolina Championship on Lake Wylie. The winners of the Oct 26-27 Lake Murray CBC Classic will take home a ZX200/200Yamaha SHO rig worth $48,000.”
Carolinas Bass Challenge - North Carolina Division
Sat, Feb 16, 2013
Lake Norman
Call Brett Collins 803-413-7521
www.carolinasbasschallenge.com
Fishing Getting Good Just In Time For Bassmaster Weekend Series On Lake Murray
Fishing is heating up on Lake Murray just in time for the Bassmaster Weekend Series South Carolina Division tournament this Saturday.
“In a tournament last weekend it took about 25 pounds to win,” said Kevin Rake, a BWS pro staffer who lives near Lake Murray. In fact, it took 24.78 pounds for first place in the Carolinas Bass Challenge qualifier on Lake Murray last Saturday and the top 12 teams had over 20 pounds. The CBC paid through 33rd place which had over 15 pounds.
“The fish are starting to move up on the points real good,” said Rake. “You can catch them on crankbaits and some guys are catching them on spinnerbaits and jerkbaits.”
Rake said the fishing is a little better up the rivers, but anglers have to know the water up there to fish it effectively.
“Generally, down the lake they are starting to move up on secondary points and moving back in the creeks. They are not far back in the creeks yet. It is just a matter of finding the right point,” he said.
“If the weather holds fishing should be good this weekend,”
Billy Benedetti, BWS tournament manager, said he expects 50 to 60 boats to fish the tournament, “maybe more.”
Getting a fix on how many anglers have registered has been hard because the computers have been down at their headquarters, he said.
“Registration will be held from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Friday at Dreher Island State Park with the meeting to follow at 7 p.m.,” he said.
The anglers are fishing both for money and for the opportunity to advance to higher levels of competition, said Benedetti, who noted that the payback is based on the number of boats entered.
“The goal for these anglers is to make it all the way to the National Championship and on to the 2014 Bassmaster Classic. A win in the BWS National Championship would bring the pro angler $100,000 and a win for a co-angler would mean $50,000, Benedetti said.
Bassmaster Weekend Series - South Carolina Division
Sat, Feb 16, 2013
Lake Murray
Dreher Island State Park
Call Billy Benedetti 256-230-5632
From Bassmaster Southern Open - White Refuels Ranger, Reviews Day 1
Danny White made the long run to the south end of sprawling Lake Kissimmee. As he refuels his Ranger for another high-speed race on day 2, White talks about how day 1 went and how he adjusted to finicky fish with a one-two lure combination that put a limit in his livewell.
BRP Launches Optimus 360
BRP LAUNCHES OPTIMUS 360 BY SEASTAR POWER STEERING AND JOYSTICK DOCKING CONTROL TECHNOLOGY
Optimus 360 delivers state-of-the-art power steering and joystick docking control to V6 engines in Evinrude E-TEC lineup
Sturtevant, Wis., Feb. 14, 2013 – BRP announced today the introduction of Optimus 360 by SeaStar, an integrated power steering and joystick docking control specifically designed for boats running twin Evinrude E-TEC V6 outboard engines that are equipped with the Evinrude ICON electronic shift and throttle (EST) system.
With customizable steering resistance and response along with speed-sensitive helm turn ratios, Optimus 360’s revolutionary power steering system provides virtually effortless shift and control at all RPM speeds – from idle to wide-open throttle. Consumers can set the lock-to-lock steering ratio according to boat speed in order to fit their unique needs.
The three-axis joystick docking control with Optimus 360 offers improved control of the boat in docking, launching and retrieving the boat from the trailer and maneuvering the boat in crowded harbors and marinas. SmartCylinders with rudder position sensors allow twin Evinrude E-TEC engines to be controlled independently or in tandem to maneuver the boat sideways, diagonally, forward and backwards, or rotate on its axis.
“Integrated into the Evinrude E-TEC platform, Optimus 360 by SeaStar will give boat operators a new level of control for their vessel and confidence in their own maneuvering skills,” said Larry Koschak, Senior Product Specialist at BRP’s Evinrude Outboard Engine Division. “This technology will improve the overall steering experience at all speeds and greatly reduce the stress level felt by operators as they maneuver in tight situations.”
Suitable for many applications such as offshore center consoles, catamarans, high performance cruisers and other popular twin and triple engine boats, Optimus 360 integrates seamlessly into the Evinrude ICON system to eliminate bulky controls and system complexity, leaving consumers with an affordable choice of rigging options.
“The market for joystick and power steering options for both the new package and repower segments is growing, and we are excited to be working with SeaStar engineers to bring this advanced technology to Evinrude E-TEC enthusiasts,” said Thomas Mason, Evinrude North American PAC Business Unit Manager.
Optimus 360 by SeaStar will be available for installation from authorized Evinrude E-TEC boat builders and dealerships beginning April 2013. Visitors to the Miami International Boat Show can stop by the BRP booth at the Miami Convention Center from Feb. 14-18 to take a virtual test drive of Optimus 360 technology. Consumers also can try out the technology first hand, which will be rigged on an Andros Offshore 32’, at Sea Isle Marina during the show.
For more information on Optimus 360 by SeaStar for Evinrude E-TEC engines, visit www.teleflexmarine.com.
BRP's Evinrude engine line-up from 3.5- to 300 horsepower offers customers superior value across a full range of applications. Engines are available at authorized Evinrude dealerships worldwide. Become part of the online Evinrude community at www.evinrudenation.com and follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/brpevinrude.
BRP US Inc.
Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP), a privately-held company, is a world leader in the design, development, manufacturing, distribution and marketing of motorized recreational vehicles. Its portfolio of brands and products includes: Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea‑Doo watercraft, Evinrude and Johnson outboard engines, Can-Am all‑terrain and side-by-side vehicles and roadsters, as well as Rotax engines. BRP products are distributed in more than 100 countries.
Sea-Doo, Ski-Doo, Lynx, Evinrude, E-TEC, Johnson, Can-Am, Rotax and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
FLW Rookie Prouty Dissects Decisions from First Tour Tourney
JP Prouty took to Lake Okeechobee a day after missing the FLW Tour top 20 cut (by 1 pound, 7 ounces) to do a postmortem exam of his first-ever tour-level event. What he found, and what he didn't, will help him sleep better and have confidence in his decision-making abilities.
Soft Plastics Under Attack?! Yes! Act Now To Stop The Ban On Soft Baits!
Can you believe that soft plastic fishing lures have come under attack now!?! Please join the fight to protect our sport. It starts in Maine, but it will spread to Alabama, Florida, the Carolinas and beyond if we don't help our neighbors to the north stomp out this ignorance. Click the link and click to join the petition. It's that easy - 2 CLICKS!
http://keepamericafishing.salsalabs.com/dia/track.jsp?v=2&c=8vndooeBSDLf%2F74sUfuKEYtY9Jdl4baM
These fish fell for soft baits. Don't lose the right to use the time-tested lures.
Dear Fellow Anglers,
During the last few weeks we at KeepAmericaFishing™ sent out emails regarding a bill in Maine that would ban the use of all soft baits. This legislation is now going to a working session of the Maine Joint Standing Committee on Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. In order to show just how many anglers across the country are concerned by this bill we ask that you sign our petition in a show of solidarity. This petition will be presented to the Committee so that they can see that banning soft baits not only affects their own residents and anglers but also anglers nationwide.
By signing the petition you are telling the Committee that you "do not approve of unfounded bans on soft baits. Arbitrarily banning widely used tackle such as this would have a tremendous impact on everyone from individual anglers to tackle manufacturers to state wildlife management agencies that protect our resources. Further study must be conducted and decisions must be based on sound science."
Join us on this issue. Whether Maine is far from you - or near - what happens there could happen in your state as well. Sign the petition today.
Here's to tightlines,
Gordon Robertson
KeepAmericaFishing™
Powers and Swain Shearan Harris Results
Powers Swain Chevy Fishing Team held its first bass tournament on Shearon Harris Lake, NC. The date of the tournament was February 10, 2013. This was the first tournament of the year for the Team. It should have been called “The Frost Bowl”. Temperature at the start of the morning was 24 degrees! It took a few hours for the sun to finally warm the day up, well sort of!!! The top two teams were very close in weight and for the big fish as well.
The top three teams were:
1. Bobby Williams from Salisbury, NC & Byong Lee from Stedman, NC weighed in 11.68 lbs.
Powers and Swain Winners Bobby Williams and Byong Lee
2. Hal Abshire Cameron, NC & Ethan Cox from West End, NC weighed in 11.10 lbs.
Powers and Swain 2nd place team: Hal Abshire and Ethan Cox
3. Craig MacDonald from Fayetteville, NC & Eugene Maynard from Morrisville, NC weighed in 7.88 lbs.
Big Fish award went to the Team of Williams & Lee with a 7.27 lb. bass.
Second Big Fish award went to the Team of Abshire & Cox with a 7.05 lb. bass.
Val Osinski Gives the Lowdown on Lures that Excel on Okeechobee
Okeechobee bass crash swimbaits in sparse cover and inhale craws and creatures that are punched through dense canopies of vegetation! Val Osisnki, owner of Gambler Lures and avid tournament fisherman, talks about the top choices for flippin' and swimming baits on the big lake.
Brp Celebrates Evinrude E-Nation 1St Birthday With Upgrades And New Features
“Whether you’re into fishing or just hanging out with friends and family on the water, visitors will find there’s something for everyone on E-NATION,” said Christopher Berg, Director of Marketing and Strategic Planning for Evinrude. “With a new look, new features and constantly updated content, the website brings all of us together to share our passion for the water.”
E-NATION allows users to ask questions, give advice and swap stories through easy-to-navigate discussion boards. The site also is a great source for original articles and videos on a variety of topics ranging from fresh and saltwater fishing to pontoon and leisure boating, and beyond.
E-NATION provides a wealth of technical information, including a reference library, about Evinrude and Johnson engines. It also allows users to connect directly with Evinrude representatives who will answer their unique questions and offer expert advice based on decades of experience.
When it comes to experts, Evinrude’s team of professional anglers regularly contribute tips, how-to instructions and respond to user questions and comments.
“One of the great aspects of boating and fishing is sharing your knowledge with others, which makes E-NATION such a valuable resource,” said Team Evinrude angler Capt. C.A. Richardson. “I look forward to continuing the conversation on E-NATION in 2013, and invite everyone who shares a passion for the water to join our online community.”
In addition, E-NATION hosts T.E.C., an exclusive owner’s zone filled with select content, coupons and other offerings for Johnson and Evinrude owners. Visit www.theevinrudeclub.com to join by entering your engine’s serial number.
BRP's Evinrude engine line-up from 3.5- to 300 horsepower offers customers superior value across a full range of applications. Engines are available at authorized Evinrude dealerships worldwide. Become part of the online Evinrude community atwww.evinrudenation.com and follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/brpevinrude.
Not to Be Missed!: Get In the Boat with Benton as He Wins FLW Tourney on Okeechobee!
Want to see how Drew Benton caught the majority of his winning weight this week? AnglersChannel Insider Vance McCullough was there, in the boat with Benton as it happened. The young pro gave a complete breakdown of his pattern, lure and technique.
Drew Benton Wins FLW Tour on Okeechobee!
24-yr-old Tour rookie Drew Benton of Panama City, Fla. caught a big Okeechobee bass with 7 minutes of fishing time left in his final day. The 7-pounder provided the weight he needed to win his first-ever tour-level tournament!
David Dudley Begins Defense of AOY Title
FLW Angler of the Year, Castrol Pro David Dudley is upbeat, relaxed and ever the practical joker as he begins the 2013 FLW Tour season on Okeechobee.
Cbc Lake Murray Wrap Up With Director Brett Collins
Carolina's Bass Challenge Director Brett Collins breaks down the great day at Murray and how this really did not surprise him for a Feb Sat on this fishery. We also talk about the big payouts and fantastic stringers that just kept coming in and in........201 boats turned out this am to kick off what promises to be a fantastic 2013 for the CBC!!
Benton Takes Lead, Ehrler Makes a Charge Heading Into Final Day at Walmart FLW Tour on Okeechobee
He has fish on multiple patterns and they are all bigger than average. Today Drew Benton used that advantage and took over the lead with one day left to fish in the first stop of the 2013 Walmart FLW Tour on lake Okeechobee out of Clewiston, Fla.
Benton has stalked the leaders all week. He began the tourney in 3rd with 23 pounds, 7 ounces. Yesterday he brought in another 23 pound limit to move to 2nd. Today he only needed 15-04 to lay claim to the top spot. The Tour rookie did it on a day when wind rocked the Big O and the 20 competitors left in the comopetition. Now he has only 9 other guys to beat out and a 1-pound head start when he launches as boat #1 tomorrow.
Benton's total weight stands at 62-03. Day 2 leader Rick Cotten has 61-03.
Benton sight fished in semi-protected areas today. Tomorrow he hopes he can "go fishing" with a moving baits, not that he doesn't like sight fishing, he does, but his other fish are big and plentiful. A bunch of y'all are going to be shocked when you see how Benton fished Okeechobee this week.
Keystone Light Pro Brent Ehrler made a big move today with the day's lone 20-pound sack. No bitter beer face for Ehrler. He was all smiles as he ran his total to 56-03 and settled in at 3rd place.
Fellow Keystone Light Pro Chad Grigsby also made the cut. He said he will make a dedcision in the morning as to where he will start the day.
The lake is fishing so wierd that none of the big Okeechobee sticks made the 10 cut. Few made the 20 cut to start with. "This lake didn't set up right for us," said Randall Tharp who spoke for the contingent of mat-flippers who usually dominate this lake.
Final weigh in will be interesting.
