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.
CBC Lake Murray Blasts off with 201 Boats and ends with $12,000 Winners-
Tony and Clint Jackson hold off 200 other teams and bring home a massive 24.79 LB stringer that garnered them $12,000!! 3rd place was the higest placing Skeeter/Yamaha team so AL/Dane Odom took home an extra 5k to bring their one day total to $8200!! What a way to kick off 2013...............open the attachment at the bottom of this page for full results-notice the TABS at the bottom of the excel file that allow you to go back and forth between the BF teams and Total Weight. Winners picture and BF picture below!
CBC Lake Murray Winners Tony and Clint Jackson: Hold up their 24.78 LB 12k Stringer!
CBC Lake Murray BF Winner Clay Riddle: Holds this 8.66 LB Toad
Okeechobee Bite Opens Up On Cut Day, Cotten Grabs Lead With 30-Pound Sack
Warming weather has pulled Okeechobee's bass out of the funk that made them so difficult to locate during the practice round. Some guys made huge leaps up the leaderboard today but the big lake befuddled many of the top sticks who normally make good money on the South Florida fish factory each winter.
The top 3 pros rotated positions - day 1 leader Casey Martin dropped to 3rd, Rick Cotten moved into first and Drew Benton followed him up one notch to settle into 2nd as we conclude cut day.
The top 20 fish tomorrow, the top 10 compete in the final round on Sunday.
Cotten added 30 pounds, 3 ounces to his day 1 effort of 24 pounds. He leads Benton by more than 7 pounds. Benton has been, not only remarkable, but remarkably consistent with daily limits of 23-7 and 23-9.
I fished with Benton today. He will win this tournament, I believe. He has a couple of solid options and they both produce big fish. Spawning bass are moving into one area and we saw a couple of 4's and a 7-pounder today. He has those to go to tomorrow. His moving lure bite is strong as well. Waves of big bass are coming to him. They are all light colored main lake fish that are there to eat and spawn.
I shot some awesome video of Benton. Look for it this week. I will wait the tournament's conclusion to run it on AnglersChannel.com because he really give us the breakdown on the lure, the spot and his technique, including a very important line choice.
Weird Year,' But Weights Strong For Carolinas Bass Challenge Opener On Lake Murray
Chris Epting and Johnny Mayer won on Lake Murray in 2012
One local angler who plans to fish the Carolinas Bass Challenge South Carolina Division opener for 2013 on Lake Murray Saturday says it has been “a weird year” so far for bass fishing on the lake.
“The biggest thing I see that is different from last year is the lack of bait, especially down in the lower part of the lake,” said Doug Lown, who despite having boat trouble that shut down fishing for him and partner Rhett Manus at 11 o’clock last Saturday morning, still managed to finish 11th in the Carolina Anglers Team Trail's first Lake Murray season qualifier.
“We struggled, but we still caught a limit on a Shakey Head,” Lown said. “You can catch numbers of fish on the Shakey Head, but not a lot of big fish.”
Lown admitted he is struggling to figure out what is going on with the normally abundant baitfish this time of year.
“I don't understand why the bait is like it is. Even two years a when it was so cold with the water temperature in the 40s there was plenty of bait up. I don't know why it is so deep this year,” he said. “Aside from not marking any bait, you can go out in the morning and not see any surface activity. When the bait is up you will see herons sitting around, waiting to eat, and right now you just don't see that.”
Lown said there are some fish fairly shallow, some at mid-depth and some anglers will still be trying to catch them deep.
“I have not had any luck catching them deep,” he said. I've caught them shallow – less than 10 feet. I think we will probably fish a jig a good bit and see if we can catch them on the bottom,” he said.
It took almost 21 pounds to win the CATT opener last Saturday and Lown said he believes it will take 24, maybe 25 pounds to win this Saturday.
“Maybe more. It will take 17 to 18 pounds just to get a check,” he said.
Carolinas Bass Challenge owner-director Brett Collins said he expects the field to top the 141 teams that fished in last year's CBC opener on Lake Murray.
“We will have well over 100 teams pre-paid by Saturday morning. We've got several teams new to CBC and we also have a few teams from Georgia,” he said.
The entry fee is $200 and teams can pay at the Dreher Island State Park ramp Saturday morning, Collins said. He will be taking entries starting at 3:30 a.m. Team members must also pay a membership fee of $35 each to fish the CBC tournaments series.
“The weigh-in will start at 3 p.m. and we invite all the families of the anglers to attend. Of course we will be cooking and a lot of the guys look forward to weighing their catch and enjoying a good meal.”
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 - South Carolina Division
Sat Feb 9, 2013
Lake Murray
Dreher Island State Park
Call Brett Collins 803-413-7521
www.carolinasbasschallenge.com
Weather Warming Up For Anglers In Choo Choo Division Bfl On Lake Guntersville
Photo courtesy FLW Outdoors
When the Walmart Bass Fishing League Choo Choo Division season opener was held on Lake Guntersville in February 2012, a cold winter wind was howling at 20 miles per hour with daytime temperatures only reaching 28 degrees – and it took more than 30 pounds to win.
Things are somewhat different for this year's opener Saturday, said tournament director Leroy Hensley.
“Temperatures are expected to be in the 60s Saturday, which will be good for the fishermen, but I don't know what that will do for the bite. It might not be as good as last year.”
However, Hensley noted that it took 27 pounds to win a tournament on Guntersville last weekend and he figures it might take that much or maybe a pound or so more to win the BFL Saturday. And he has a pretty solid record of estimating tournament winning weights. Before the BFL Gator Division season opener on Lake Okeechobee in January he predicted it would take at least 32 pounds to win and the top weight for that tournament was 32 pounds, 10 ounces.
Bass in Lake Guntersville are known to stay shallow all winter so anglers will be targeting banks, points and pockets.
“Right now it looks like the Alabama Rig will probably be the bait of choice and I also think they will be throwing a Rat-L-Trap some, too,” he said.
That bitter cold day in 2012 may have caused some anglers to hold off on entering the tournament Saturday, said Hensley who had 164 boats signed up by mid-week.
“But I think we will fish at least 185-190 boats. I expect to get a lot of late entries by Friday. We need 25 to 30 more boats. It is supposed to be really good weather, so that is a plus,” he said.
Hensley noted that with a full field of 200 boats first place would pay $8,000, plus contingencies. The top 40 at the end of the season qualify for the regional tournament on Lake Lanier.
“I think the anglers are really going to like that,” he said.
From the regional the top anglers qualify for the Walmart BFL All-American in 2014. The 2013 BFL All-American is being held June 27-29 on Nickajack Lake in Chattanooga, Tenn. Top winners in the BFL can move up to the EverStart Series or even the Walmart FLW Tour.
“We are going out of Waterfront Tackle at Goose Pond Saturday,” Hensley said. “Scottsboro is just a great town. They love fishing in this area. For anyone who wants to catch good bass, I encourage them go to to Goose Pond and fish Lake Guntersville out of Waterfront Tackle.”
Following Saturday's tournament on Lake Guntersville, the Choo Choo Division schedule includes: April 6, Lake Guntersville out of Waterfront Tackle & Grill at Goose Pond at Scottsboro; April 27, Lake Guntersville out of Civitan Park in Guntersville; June 8, Lake Guntersville out of Civitan Park in Guntersville; with the two-day final Sept. 28-29, Lake Guntersville out of Waterfront Tackle & Grill at Goose Pond at Scottsboro.
BFL - Walmart Bass Fishing League - Choo Choo Division
Sat Feb 9, 2013
Lake Guntersville
Waterfront Grocery and Tackle
Bass In Transition Making Fishing A 'little Tough' For Bassmaster Weekend Series On Sinclair
Anglers planning to fish the Bassmaster Weekend Series Georgia Central Division tournament on Lake Sinclair Saturday have reported fishing is kind of tough right now, said Billy Benedetti, BWS tournament director.
So, Benedetti, who lives near the lake, decided to check out the fishing for himself Wednesday.
“A month ago I was catching fish relatively deep, 45 to 55 feet on jigging spoons and drop-shots, but with the temperatures warming up some of the fish have started moving up, while some are still out deep,” he said.
Wednesday Benedetti was catching a few bass on a jigging spoon in 22 feet of water in the mouths of creeks. But a fishing buddy was trying the fish that have moved shallower with some success, he noted.
“He's about 100 yards from me back in the creek in three feet of water and he's catching his fish on a Carolina rig. He said he caught tree back to back in the back of a creek.”
Benedetti said some anglers also reported catching fish on a Pig 'n Jig around docks and on crankbaits in stained water.
“The water temperature was 51 degrees this morning and it's 54 degrees now (2 o'clock),” he noted. “Right now we have bluebird skies, but this weekend is supposed to be cloudy. I think that will make the fish bite a little better.”
A few weeks ago, he said, the fish were biting better out towards the mouths of the creeks, but with water temperatures beginning to warm, the bite seems to be getting better towards the backs of the creeks in shallower water.
“Some of the guys are struggling, but someone will get on them and catch them pretty good in the tournament,” 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.
“If we get 100 boats, first place will pay $5,000 on the boater side and $2,500 on the co-angler side. We are close to 100 boats now. We just need a few more boaters and co-anglers to reach that 100-boat mark.”
If a BWS tournament reaches 200 boats, he said, the winner could take home $6,000 plus contingencies and the co-angler could win $3,000 and contingencies.
“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.
“Registration will be held from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Friday at Walter B. Williams Park, with the meeting to follow at 7 p.m. The tournament will launch at Little River Park at safe light Saturday morning”
Bassmaster Weekend Series - Georgia Central Division
Sat Feb 9, 2013
Lake Sinclair
Little River Park
Call Billy Benedetti 256-230-5632
2013 & 2014 Toyota Texas Bass Classic Qualification Information For Paa Pro Anglers
Would you like to see your name on the Toyota Texas Bass Classic trophy alongside names like previous champions Kelly Jordon, Terry Scroggins, Dave Lefebre, Brian Snowden, Keith Combs and Bryan Thrift? By fishing the Bass Pro Shops PAA Tournament Series in 2013 you may have two chances to do just that!
Now there are two great reasons to be or become a Professional Anglers Association Pro Angler and compete in the Bass Pro Shops PAA Tournament Series events in 2013. The only true world championship, the Toyota Texas Bass Classic invites the top 15 in Angler of the Year points races from the Bassmaster Elite Series, FLW Tour and the PAA Tournament Series, four sponsor exemptions and the previous year’s champion to compete in a three day competition. The no entry fee event awards the winner $150,000 in cash and prizes and all competitors receive a check.Shouldn’t you fish the PAA in 2013 to have this once-in-a-lifetime chance to double-qualify for not just one but two TTBC World Championships in 2013 and 2014?
The 2013 Bass Pro Shops PAA Tournament Series will kick off on Douglas Lake in Dandridge, Tenn. March 28-30. The series will then move to Ft. Loudon/Tellico Lakes in Knoxville, Tenn. May 23-25. The PAA will then travel to the famed Table Rock Lake in Branson, Mo. September 5-7. Following these three (3) events the PAA Angler of the Year point totals will be tallied, Angler of the Year will be awarded and the top 15 anglers will be invited to compete in the 2013 Toyota Texas Bass Classic on Lake Conroe October 4-6.
In November 2013 a fourth Bass Pro Shops PAA Tournament Series event will be held (date/time/location TBD). This event will carry points toward the 2014 Toyota Texas Bass Classic. Anglers who have fished all four (4) events in 2013 will be afforded the ability to drop their lowest event. The points will be recalculated. Upon completion of the November event and verification of the updated point standings, the top 15 in the Angler of the Year points will be invited to the 2014 Toyota Texas Bass Classic.
PAA President Dave Mansue stated, “Lake Conroe and the City of Conroe have been great hosts and partners to Gulf States Toyota, Texas Parks and Wildlife and the PAA. Lake Conroe will be remembered for its incredible competition from Brian Snowden’s win by ounces over Mike Iaconelli in 2010, to a tie between Iaconelli and Keith Combs forcing a fish off in 2011, to last year’s incredible final day by Bryan Thrift overcoming a 9 lb. deficit to steal the victory! One can only imagine the history that will be written when the TTBC returns to famed Lake Fork.”
Mansue continued, “The PAA Board of Directors joins me in my excitement about the opportunities having two (2) Toyota Texas Bass Classics in less than a year provides to all PAA anglers. We encourage everyone to support the PAA by entering all the 2013 Bass Pro Shops PAA Tournament Series events and compete for one of the coveted spots in these great Toyota Texas Bass Classic championships. The future of your association depends on your participation.”
Pro Angler registration for the 2013 Bass Pro Shops PAA Tournament Series is now open. For more information about the 2013 Bass Pro Shops PAA Tournament Series, please visit the appropriate links below or call the PAA Office at (270) 527-2030:
Schedule: http://fishpaa.com/2013-tournament-series-schedule/
Official Rules: http://fishpaa.com/2013-paa-tournament-series-rules/
Registration Details: http://fishpaa.com/2013-tournament-registration-details/
Pro Payout: http://fishpaa.com/2013-paa-pro-payout/
2013 Feb Sportsman's Warehouse Report with CBC and CATT Director Brett Collins
CBC and CATT Director Brett Collins joins us at Sportsman's Warehouse for a great look into some of the shallow baits you absolutley have to have this Feb on the Tournament Circuit. Very few give you the detail and inside info like Brett does...........check this out!!
2013 Carolina Anglers Team Trail Preview with Director Brett Collins-from Sportsman's Warehouse in Columbia, SC!!
For one of the most in-depth Tournament previews you will ever find, click here and listen to CBC Director Brett Collins lay out exactly what is in store for the CBC in 2013 and why some of the fisheries throughout our region look to be as good as they've ever been!!
2013 Greene Boat and Motor Open House with Andy Greene and Pro Staffer Marty Stone!
Andy Greene joins us at his 5th Annual Open House and gets us up to speed on all the product he now carries at his great dealership, as well as Pro Staffer Marty Stone, who says a colder winter could pay BIG dividends this spring!!
FLW Tour Pro JP Prouty Excited to Begin Rookie Season on Home Lake
JP Prouty talks about feeling nervous, but a good kind of nervous, over his fist FLW Tour tourney and rookie season on tour. He lives near Okeechobee and wants to do well on one of his favorite lakes.
Daniel Lanier Talks About His Day, His Decisions
Daniel Lanier has "no regrets" about his decision to saty on Toho and maximize fishing time, even though it didn't work out the way he had hoped.
Howes Tells How He Won The Bassmaster Southern Open On Kissimmee Chain
Rich Howes shares pattern information and talks about the decisions he made that lead to his win.
Cameron Gautney and Taylor Jason Luna take the Rat-l-trap Classic with 26.45 lbs on G'Ville!!
Cameron Gautney and Taylor Jason Luna have one heck of a day on Guntersville with 26.45 lbs and good enough for 1st Place and $3,200!! Check out the full story on the attachment below! These guys beat out 180 other teams for this HUGE WIN- Here is a great picture of their winning stringer!
Champions Cameron Gautney and Taylor Jason Luna
Howes Runs To Kissimmee, Lanier Fishes Toho; Howes Wins Bassmaster Southern Open With 9 Pounds, 10 Ounces!
Watch Rich Howes and Daniel Lanier weigh-in after a short day of tough fishing. Howes made the long run while Lanier fished close. A crowd of perhaps 300 showed up to watch the two anglers weigh-in.
Big Bass Footage At Southern Open On Kissimmee Chain
See some of the specimens that crossed the stage. Also, watch Daniel Lanier Jr. and Rich Howes discover that, for them, the tourney isn't over and they will fish for the title, the money and a spot in the 2014 Bassmaster Classic Sunday.
Still Going . . . Lanier, Howes Head-to-Head on Superbowl Sunday to Decide Southern Open Champion
The top story is the tied score and, henceforth, the 5-hour fish-off between Daniel Lanier Jr. and Rich Howes that will take place Sunday. The two will weigh-in at the Lakefront Park in Kissimmee at noon.
Each angler has 47 pounds, 2 ounces over 3 tough days of changeable weather that has shut the bite down for the most part.
Thursday morning offered excellent topwater action for Lanier, who sacked 27-11 and took the lead. Howse responded with the tournament's only other 20-pound bag on Friday and captured the lead heading into Saturday's (supposedly) final round. Both guys did a decent job today (16-12 for Lanier and 14-10 for Howse) and now they each have to fish an extra day to decide who will be the champ on Kissimmee Chain.
Lanier and Howse have both won some bonus money. They'll need the extra feul funds if they plan to run again Sunday to the fish that have gotten them this far. In fact, after Toho's lush grass beds were eradicated this winter, we now have a situation where 160 of 198 boats chose to lock down to Kissimmee rather than stay on the lake from which they launched. Instead of the usual dock talk, anglers stood around telling war stories about fighting to get into the lock before the gates closed.
As for the actual fishing, flippin' was the way to go. As for depth, that's a matter of choice. Howse has been working in 5-to-7 feet of water while Lanier has been "super shallow . . . like, a foot (deep)."
A lot of small fish could be caught in open water on the Gambler EZ Swimmer or speed worms of various sorts, but those were mostly small fish. The guys who made the cut were the ones who toughed it out in the mats. And tough it was for some. "I lost 4 big fish that came off and it cost me the tournament," said Trevor Fitzgerald who finished 6th. "It's hard to get those big fish out of the mats I was flipping without them pulling off." Fitzgerald used a couple of heavy action 7'10" Fitzgerald Rods (his wife builds them and they will be available at Tackle Warehouse later this week).
Glenn Browne summed up the sentiments of many when he said, via Facebook, "Rough day on the water. Finished 12th. A little disappointed in my performance today, but still, all in all a good tournament."
Chad Morgenthaler brought his best limit of the tournament and the best one of the day at 18-10.
2013 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Southern Open Lake Toho 1/31-2/2
Lake Toho, Kissimmee FL.
(BOATER) Standings Day 3
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Daniel Lanier Jr. Winter Springs, FL 12 47-02 198 $750.00
Day 1: 5 27-11 Day 2: 2 02-11 Day 3: 5 16-12
1. Richard Howes Oviedo, FL 15 47-02 197 $250.00
Day 1: 5 12-06 Day 2: 5 20-02 Day 3: 5 14-10
3. Brandon Lester Fayetteville, TN 15 46-10 196 $15,048.00
Day 1: 5 16-14 Day 2: 5 14-11 Day 3: 5 15-01
4. Chad Morgenthaler Coulterville, IL 15 45-15 195 $13,464.00
Day 1: 5 09-08 Day 2: 5 17-13 Day 3: 5 18-10
5. Jordan Card Knoxville, TN 15 39-01 194 $11,748.00
Day 1: 5 13-05 Day 2: 5 15-07 Day 3: 5 10-05
6. Trevor Fitzgerald Belleview, FL 15 38-13 193 $10,032.00
Day 1: 5 12-12 Day 2: 5 18-09 Day 3: 5 07-08
7. Bradley Jones Aragon, GA 14 38-00 192 $8,448.00
Day 1: 5 11-11 Day 2: 5 15-09 Day 3: 4 10-12
8. Todd Auten Lake Wylie, SC 15 37-07 191 $6,732.00
Day 1: 5 18-01 Day 2: 5 09-10 Day 3: 5 09-12
9. Derek Remitz Grant, AL 12 36-05 190 $5,016.00
Day 1: 5 18-01 Day 2: 5 11-03 Day 3: 2 07-01
10. David Walker Sevierville, TN 15 36-05 189 $4,620.00
Day 1: 5 13-11 Day 2: 5 17-02 Day 3: 5 05-08
11. Tracy Adams Wilkesboro, NC 12 36-02 188 $4,224.00
Day 1: 5 18-07 Day 2: 5 13-03 Day 3: 2 04-08
12. Glenn Browne Ocala, FL 15 34-14 187 $3,960.00
Day 1: 5 13-04 Day 2: 5 14-09 Day 3: 5 07-01
CARHARTT BIG BASS
Daniel Lanier Jr. Winter Springs, FL 09-11 $500.00
HEAVYWEIGHT OF TOURN
Daniel Lanier Jr. Winter Springs, FL 27-11 $250.00
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 101 714 1420-08
2 80 652 1326-07
3 9 53 127-08
----------------------------------
190 1419 2874-07
2013 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Southern Open Lake Toho 1/31-2/2
Lake Toho, Kissimmee FL.
(NON_BOATER) Standings Day 3
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Brian Kelly Liverpool, NY 8 27-04 198 $25,000.00
Day 1: 3 13-06 Day 2: 3 09-03 Day 3: 2 04-11
2. Johnny Pittman Albertville, AL 8 26-01 197 $7,218.00
Day 1: 3 19-01 Day 2: 2 03-07 Day 3: 3 03-09
3. Matt Fair Ocoee, FL 9 24-02 196 $4,884.00
Day 1: 3 08-00 Day 2: 3 07-15 Day 3: 3 08-03
4. Tony Johnson Altamonte Springs, FL 8 22-01 195 $3,300.00
Day 1: 3 11-08 Day 2: 3 03-01 Day 3: 2 07-08
5. Jimbo Harris Lenoir City, TN 9 21-06 194 $3,036.00
Day 1: 3 04-05 Day 2: 3 09-04 Day 3: 3 07-13
6. Bill Capps Auburn, AL 9 19-07 193 $2,904.00
Day 1: 3 07-05 Day 2: 3 07-12 Day 3: 3 04-06
7. Preston Harris State Road, NC 6 17-09 192 $2,772.00
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 3 13-06 Day 3: 3 04-03
8. Grady Maynard Leesburg, FL 8 17-07 191 $2,640.00
Day 1: 2 05-02 Day 2: 3 07-13 Day 3: 3 04-08
9. Sammy Bailey Hogansville, GA 7 16-06 190 $2,508.00
Day 1: 3 02-14 Day 2: 3 09-15 Day 3: 1 03-09
10. Ricky Diamond Bean Station, TN 9 16-03 189 $2,244.00
Day 1: 3 07-06 Day 2: 3 05-04 Day 3: 3 03-09
11. Matt Cash Cincinnati, OH 5 14-15 188 $1,980.00
Day 1: 3 09-05 Day 2: 1 03-08 Day 3: 1 02-02
12. Grayson Smith Clarksville, TN 6 13-13 187 $1,848.00
Day 1: 3 04-05 Day 2: 3 09-08 Day 3: 0 00-00
CARHARTT BIG BASS
Johnny Pittman Albertville, AL 10-04 $500.00
HEAVYWEIGHT OF TOURN
Johnny Pitman Albertville, AL 19-01 $250.00
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 61 311 548-05
2 61 311 539-07
3 7 27 54-01
----------------------------------
129 649 1141-13
Great Race Shaping Up At Bassmaster Open On Kissimmee Chain!
Compared to the relative swelter each afternoon during the practice rounds, it feels cool out on the lakes again today. But the forecast high is exactly what the historical average is for Februaury 2nd in Kissimmee, Fla. - 72 degrees. Intense sunshine is warming the water once again. The problem for some anglers may be the lack of wind. If fish do move shallow, they may be spooked by rod movement, trolling motor noise, etc. The breeze is out of the east, when fish are said to bite the least, and it is only moving about 5 mph.
We've heard very little abot sight fishing this week, but it could play a factor if a big fish moves up late and gives an angler a shot at the one he needs to seal the deal.
We've got a jammed up leaderboard with all 12 pros within a few pounds of each other.
Rich Howes was flipping deep cover yesterday and caught his fish early. It's doubtful they moved before the sun climbed high this morning so he has likely set the bar for all others by now.
Daniel Lanier, in 6th now, only caught two small fish yesterday but his opening act of 27-plus was no fluke. He finished in the top 12 during the Southern Open here in 2011. He's a local, and he knows he messed up yesterday. He also thinks he knows how to fix it today.
Then there are 4 other great competitors between Howes and Lanier, as well as the half-dozen behind, who all have their own ideas about how the day should go.
It's going to be a fun weigh in. Catch it live on Bassmaster.com at 4 p.m.
Howes Rocks the House with 20-Plus; Takes Lead Heading Into Final Day
While we played bumper boats in the lock yesterday morning Rich Howes wished me luck. The good luck I wished upon him seems to have stuck.
With a decent start (12 pounds, 6 ounces) on day 1, Howes put himself in a good position Thursday. Today, with the tournament’s second-largest sack so far (20-2) he took the lead over 197 others who hoped to win the Bassmaster Southern Open on the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes. Only his closest 11 competitors have a shot at him in Saturday’s final round.
“I made a long run south,” said Howes of nearby Oviedo. “I caught my best fish early. I only made one pass through the area and I hope there are enough good ones left for tomorrow.”
Day 1 leader Daniel Lanier brought only two fish and they weighed a combined 2-11. But with his opening round weight of 27-11 he has a two-day total of 30-6, good enough to land Lanier in 6th place, safely inside the cut.
Lanier’s first day fish ate topwater lures. Today was mostly a mat flipping fest as high skies and abundant sunshine dominated right from the chilly start. Tomorrow should see similar conditions.
The leaderboard is tight. Bradley Jones, the last man in the cut at 12th place, is only 5 pounds, 4 ounces off the lead. That’s one solid keeper in these lakes . . . if the solid keepers will turn on and feed. “I’m a little concerned that Toho, which is always so good, is fishing so tough that everybody is locking through and heading south,” said Gerald Swindle who won the last B.A.S.S. event here in 2011 by camping on a spot in Toho. What does he think is the problem? “They sprayed all the grass.”
Some of the co-angler weights are impressive. Brian Kelley leads with 22-9. Johnny Pittman is riding that 3-fish, 19 pound day 1 effort to a two-day total of 22-8, just an ounce off the lead he held yesterday. Matt Fair has been the picture of consistency with daily weights of 8-0 and 7-15. Fair is currently 3rd heading into Saturday’s show down.
Some first-hand observations: I have been on the lake for 4 straight days. Practice was good for nearly everybody. Competition rounds have been tough for nearly everybody. The weather shut down the bite. Bass want to be in the open water and when they get out, as they did early yesterday and again for perhaps an hour very late today, they are feeding aggressively, but the weather put them under the mats and when they bite there are a lot of short strikes.
Smart competitors will spend a lot of time with a flippin’ stick in hand and then, when the bite turns on, they will target feeding fish on the flats with a Gambler EZ Swimmer. I figured I had the bases covered with other versions of the swimming worm/small swimbait but I got my butt handed to me two days in a row – well, for a brief feeding period each day, by partners who threw the EZ Swimmer. Danny White caught them on it before the skies cleared Thursday morning. This afternoon, due to a late flight draw, I was out with Kazuki Kitajima until 4:40 p.m. During that last hour the mid-sized bass started feeding and Kazuki put on a clinic. It got to the point where I just stopped and watched him to see what I was missing. He was able to generate a second strike with that same EZ Swimmer if a fish missed it the first time. That’s when you have the right lure working.
So . . . to fish the Kissimmee Chain right now you need two rods – one rigged for flippin’ and another rigged with a Gambler EZ Swimmer.
Catch the conclusion of the Bassmaster Southern Open Saturday at 4 p.m. at the Orlando Bass Pro Shops location or on line at Bassmaster.com.
South Florida Big Bass Tour - Day One Disappoints Many On Kissimmee Chain
Daniel Lanier was not disappointed by the fishing on the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes. He's in a very small minority. With a total weight of 27 pounds, 11 ounces he leads the Bassmaster Southern Open.
Lanier says he caught his best fish early this morning on topwater lures.
He anchored his sack with a 9 pound, 11 ounce beauty. His lead is 9 pounds 4 ounces. Big fish make all the difference.
Johnny Pitman of Alabama leads all co-asnglers with a 3-fish limit that weighed a whopping 19 pounds, 1 ounce. That weight would put him in 2nd on the pro side, and pros get to weigh 5 fish. Pitman owns big bas honors over the entire field (pro or co-angler) with a 10-4.
Yours truly fished with Danny White and I can attest that the fish were feeding up this morning. As the climbed and clouds blew away the bite changed. Little fish could be caught but the type of bass you come to lake Toho for are tough to figure out right now.
I tried to target big fish with a Strike King Hack Attack Heavy Cover Jig. It has produced big ones before but today it only tempted a 14-incher.
The morning air wasn't unbearably cold today. Forecast calls for 42 degrees at blast off tomorrow. We likely won't make it up to 70 for a high. The smart money is on the flippin' bite.
Sight fishing was mostly off, though a few anglers boxed a bedding bass or two. Wind, muddied water and cooler temps are mostly to blame for that.
Small fish will chase skinny dippers in open water near cover. Most of these are bucks guarding fry. That's a fun way to fish, but it won't win you any money on these lakes most years.
Guys who have figured something out aren't talking much right now with two tournament days left. So stay tuned for continuing coverage on anglersChannel.com.
Arey Hopes Progress Continues For Flw Tour Majors Opener On Lake Okeechobee
In the last three years Matt Arey has made a steady progression upwards in the FLW Tour Majors Division points race, from 58th in 2010 to 27th in 2011 all the way into the top 10 at 9th in 2012.
Arey accomplished that in 2012 in solid, if not spectacular, fashion, earning a check in all but one of the six qualifying tournaments, including three top 25s, and capped it off with a 23rd place finish in the Forrest Wood Cup on Lake Lanier last August.
So, it is that he begins the 2013 year with high hopes and great expectations. First up for the Shelby, N.C., pro is Florida's Lake Okeechobee, the first Major of 2013 on Feb. 7-10.
“I have not been in a tournament on Okeechobee since 2007 and it is a different lake now from then,” said Arey who finished 30th in an EverStart Division Southeast Division there in January that year. “The lake is slightly higher now. It was 2 1/2 feet above full pool, but the last time I checked it had dropped about a foot, so it is still about a foot and a half high.”
That means, he said, that the rising water has expanded the huge lake into myriad stands of various types of vegetation which will make it harder to locate the fish.
“When the water comes up like that on Okeechobee you are not able to access a lot of the fish because they are so far back in that stuff,” he said.
He practiced on Okeechobee before the cutoff with some of the anglers fishing the EverStart tournament and found the fishing “kind of tough.”
“We caught some good fish on a variety of baits, but they were scattered, so I think whoever wins this event will have to cover a lot of water,” he said.
Unless some of the fish are up spawning and can be pinpointed.
“We have a full moon and we should be about on the new moon by the end of this week. If the weather is right we are liable to see some fish on the bed. Last year or the year before about 20 guys brought in 20 pounds the first day of the tournament But I still think that with all this high water the fish will be scattered so we will have to cover a lot of water.”
And, of course, there is that old standby on Okeechobee – flipping.
“A bunch of tournaments are won punching hydrilla mats and flipping,” Arey said. “It would not surprise me to see this one won that way either.”
Arey leaves Friday for the practice period before the tournament begins next week, but he will be fishing in a borrowed boat while he awaits delivery on his new tournament boat.
“Practice starts Super Bowl Sunday. I will be picking up a boat from a buddy in South Carolina. I hope to get down there about lunchtime Saturday and get settled in and ready to go practice on Sunday.”
FLW Tour Major
Feb 7-10, 2013
Lake Okeechobee
Roland Martin Marina & Resort
Field Expanded For Carolina Coach And Marine Winter Trail Fish Off On Lake Norman
The nasty winter storm that blew across upper South Carolina and western North Carolina last week created havoc with icy roads and power outages across the region, but it also opened the door for more anglers to compete in the Carolina Coach and Marine Winter Trail Fish Off on Lake Norman this weekend.
The icy conditions forced cancellation of the final Saturday Trail tournament last Saturday, leaving the regular season with a full seven-tournament slate for the Sunday Trail and six tournaments for the Saturday Trail.
“Due to the weather we extended the field to the top 35 on Saturday and Sunday from the top 30 each day,” said Mike Chronister with Carolina Coach and Marine. Chronister explained that the Saturday, February 2, and the Sunday February 3 Fish Offs are two separate events.
“The top 35 boats from Saturday tournaments will be invited to fish the Saturday Fish Off and the top 35 boats from the Sunday tournaments will be invited to fish the Sunday Fish Off. Each event will have 1st thru 8th place payouts plus Big Fish plus Second Big Fish payouts,” he said.
He also announced that Hank Cherry and Craig Chambers are the Saturday points champions and Mick Miller and Brandon Brickweg are the Sunday points champions.
Cherry and Chambers added a 9th place finish in the Jan. 12 tournament to three second places, a third, and a first place in the Dec. 22 tournament to notch their points total. Miller and Brickweg, along with Mac McCormick, finished with all but one tournament in the top 10, including two 6th places, a 4th, two 2s and first place on Jan. 6, which followed their only down tournament on Dec. 30 when they finished 28th.
Chronister said the new Carolina Coach and Marine boat showroom is coming together nicely, with workers putting on the outside cover this week. Completion is expected by the end of February at which time the dealership's full line of new Tritons, Crest Pontoons, Sundance Skiffs and Polar Krafts will be on display.
Carolina Coach and Marine 2012/2013 Winter Trail Fish Off
Feb 2-3, 2013
Lake Norman
Midway Marina
Call Mike Chronister 704-634-1157
