Infused with Flagship Quality and Features
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DAIWA introduces new SOL AGS Inshore Saltwater Spinning Rod Series |
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FOOTHILL RANCH, CA (July 7, 2023) – Providing its best in sensitivity and durability blank construction and featuring flagship series components, DAIWA offers the right spinning rod for avid inshore saltwater anglers with its new SOL AGSspinning rods. A six-rod lineup to target everything from redfish, sea trout, snook, permit and ever tarpon, the one-piece, fast action rods are offered in three 7’ models in medium-light and medium-heavy powers, and three 7’6” rods in medium-light, medium-heavy and heavy action powers. |
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“Our main goal with the SOL AGS rods is to bring all the advancements Daiwa has made in rod development over the five years to the inshore saltwater market,” said Daiwa’s Marc Mills. “Anglers will quickly notice the advantages of our own AGS guides and micro pitch blank construction for inshore action that provides both sensitivity and the needed durability.” |
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Daiwa uses its HVF NANOPLUS carbon technology to reinforce the blank through a micro-level arrangement of material in the plastic resin, creating a smaller, lighter, and rigid yet powerful blank with impressive fish-stopping power. The Braiding X and X-45 Bias construction processes add better hoop strength for pulling on fish, plus prevents rod twisting and ovalization to contribute to longer, accurate casts. |
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DAIWA also includes its exclusive carbon framed Air Guide System (AGS) guides, considered some of the lightest and most sensitive on the market, on the SOL AGS rods. These lightweight carbon framed guides provide both more rigidity and sensitivity by dampening vibrations during the cast to provide anglers with a quicker response and feel for increased lure action sensitivity. Mills notes the new SOL AGS spinning rods match up well with its 2500, 3000 and 4000 size Saltist MG and BG MQ spinning reels, where the Monocoque (MQ) solid one-piece frame which reduces flex and gear binding is a welcomed bonus when hooked up with big redfish or tarpon. |
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MSRP $349.99 |
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Gamakatsu New Hook Products For 2024
Gamakatsu is the World’s Leading Hook manufacturer is known for being on the cutting edge when it comes to hook development for both the freshwater and saltwater markets. Gamakatsu is proud to introduce several new offerings for its 2024 lineup at ICAST.
Gamakatsu Bead Hook
Bead fishing is one of the most popular techniques for salmon and steelhead. Threading soft beads onto lines to imitate salmon eggs is an extremely effective method to target both species. The Gamakatsu Staff set out to build a better hook that would improve hook up ratios for this specific technique. Salmon and steelhead are strong and acrobatic fish with hard jaw plates and properly hooking these fish can be a challenge for even the most skilled angler.
The Bead Hook is constructed out of Gamakatsu’s TGW (Tournament Grade Wire). The TGW wire is thinner, strong and sharper than the standard wire. The smaller wire penetrates the hard jaw plate more easily, helping keep bigger salmon and steelhead pinned and on the line. The surface of each hook is coated with the Gamakatsu’s Nano Alpha Coating that additionally improves hook penetration. The Nano Alpha Coating offers higher corrosion protection resistance giving anglers longer and better hook longevity. The Bead hook has a longer shank with a wide hook gap. The longer shank results in a higher percentage of landed fish and is better at holding stronger fish that jump a lot. The Bead Hook is equipped with a needlepoint that generates better hook penetration compared to a beak point common on other styles. Now anglers have a hook that can tackle and land the biggest salmon & steelhead that swim in your waters. Available in sizes #6-3/0.
Gamakatsu Grouper Hook
The Gamakatsu Grouper hook was designed to hold large baits or bait chunks when fishing for groupers or other large predators. This hook is built with an oversize eye to accommodate large lb test line choices including heavy mono, tuna cord or wire. The Grouper hook is also excellent for large bait chunks used for tuna fishing. It has the strength to hold and handle the largest saltwater fish.
Available in sizes 10/0, 12/0 and 14/0.
Gamakatsu Catfish Circle Weedless
Bill Dance is a name that is synonymous with bass fishing, but one of his greatest passions is chasing down giant catfish. Bill teamed up with Gamakatsu to develop a weedless catfish hookthat could be fished in the heaviest wood cover without getting snagged. Bill frequently targets trophy catfish in rivers, and he often wants his baits in and around snags, laydowns and trashpiles where big catfish live. This hook allows anglers to deliver their baits into hard-to-reach places, while preventing snags. This hook is designed around Gamakatsu’s 221 SeriesOctopus Circle (Inline Point) Hook and is equipped with a custom weedguard. Gamakatsu tested many different wire weedguards that would allow the angler to be able to fish in the thickest, nastiest cover that big catfish live in, but still being able to hook them effectively. Once hooked the circle design of this hook gives anglers the chance to safely release trophy catfish back into the water unharmed.
“I love fishing for monster catfish in big current in big rivers. I have used Gamakatsu hooks for years to catch these big cats, but I wanted a hook that could get down in those river trash piles without getting snagged. Those monsters love to live in heavy current often around logs and laydowns. We took a great hook and made it better by now being weedless without sacrificing any of the great fish catching features, Bill Dance.” Available in sizes 6/0-8/0.
Gamakatsu 620 HD
The Gamakatsu 620 HD is designed for the DIY (Do It Yourself) anglers that want to make and use their own assist hooks. These hooks offer anglers the ability to customize the length of the dropper lines and their hook configuration. The 620 HD hook is designed to target tuna, giving anglers a heavy-duty hook optionwith a greater capacity to easily handle larger fish. The surface of each 620 HD hook has a Hypershield coating that dramatically increases corrosion resistance allowing anglers to spend more time fishing and less time changing out rusty hooks.
Available in sizes 5/0-7/0.
Gamakatsu J60 Crab Pattern
The Gamakatsu J60 Crab pattern hook was designed with a 60-degree eye, wide gap for better hookups, and straight hook point for quick penetration. Those features makes this the ideal hook for fly patterns that require the hook point to ride in the up position. Essentially making it the best choice for crab or shrimp patterns and perfect for redfish fly patterns.
Available in sizes 6 – 1/0.
From the desk of Ken Duke
Davenport, Fla. – Fish Insider LLC believes fishing makes our world a better place. To that end, Fish Insider offers a print and digital magazine, a website (fishinsider.com), an e-newsletter, consulting services, and more.
Fishing industry veteran Ken Duke will serve as editor in chief of Fish Insider. Duke began writing for national outdoor magazines as a teenager. For the past nine years, he served as managing editor of Fishing Tackle Retailer. For a decade before that, he was senior editor of B.A.S.S. Publications. In addition to hundreds of articles published in virtually every fishing magazine and on dozens of websites, Duke is a featured expert in the upcoming documentary film series “The History of Sportfishing.”
“Fish Insider is focused on helping our industry do better business,” Duke says. “If we do that, we grow the sport and the market. It’s been a privilege to work in this industry for the past several decades and to consult with many of the wonderful people in it. Fish Insider is the platform and the tool set I’ve always wanted to help the companies that make our sport great — large and small. Today’s kitchen table operation can be tomorrow’s multinational manufacturer with the right advice and strategy.”
To that end, Fish Insider will offer a print magazine — Fish Insider — that’s free to dealers, wholesalers, distributors, and industry professionals, as well as an e-newsletter — “Fish Insider News” (FIN) — and a variety of consulting services that run the gamut from design to manufacturing to media and much more, to fit any situation.
Travis Loyd is the founder of Fish Insider. He shares Duke’s passion for fishing and believes that a strong fishing industry makes for a better America.
“To anyone interested in improving their industry position and strengthening our sport,” Loyd says, “Fish Insider is ready to help. Whether you’re a manufacturer, a dealer, a wholesaler, a professional angler, or you’re simply looking to find your own path in the industry, we have answers, solutions, and connections.”
Duke, Loyd, and other representatives of Fish Insider will be attending ICAST, July 11-14, in Orlando. If you’d like to meet, please email Duke at [email protected]
Fenwick Embarks on a New Journey with World Class Rod Series
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Science, Natural Selection and a Bladed Jig for the Ages
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Costa Sunglasses celebrates 40 years on the water with its most advanced frame to date
Built to achieve ultimate potential on the water, King Tide is a 40 year legacy brought to life
JUPITER, Fla. (July 6, 2023) – Costa Sunglasses, manufacturer of the first color-enhancing all-polarized glass sunglass lens, celebrates its 40th anniversary with the introduction of its most advanced frame to date, King Tide. In nature, a king tide requires the perfect alignment of the Earth and moon to create an exceptionally high tide and once-in-a-lifetime views and opportunities on the water. Like its namesake, Costa’s King Tide is designed to give you the ultimate advantage on the water.
Utilizing the research and innovation from every frame that came before it, King Tide is built for those who demand performance on and off the water. Available in two styles, King Tide 6 is a medium wrap six-base frame for those who require performance in all of their watery pursuits. King Tide 8, the full wrap eight-base version, is built for elite anglers that demand the most from every cast. Technical chops on both frames include removable side shields for optimal use on and off the water, shark inspired venting to achieve a near impossible zero-fog effect, top of the line sweat management and the introduction of non-skid hooding to keep your frames exactly where you want them when the water gets rough.
“King Tide is a historical launch moment for Costa, it’s the culmination of every innovation and lesson we’ve learned in our 40 year history,” says John Sanchez, VP of Global Product Strategy. “King Tide started with a mission to deliver a sunglass packed with technology unrivaled on the water. We started five years ago with an internal challenge to study form, fit, aesthetics and so much more. Using our research lab, user insights and our pro community - who challenged us to push our limits - we delivered King Tide, opening the doors for a true appreciation of functional superiority. Our goal is to build the highest quality product, which is why King Tide is hand assembled and crafted in the U.S., just like we've done for the past four decades."
King Tide is equipped with Costa's cutting-edge polarized 580® glass lens technology, providing exceptional clarity and color enhancement. These scratch-resistant lenses effectively reduce haze and blur, while boosting essential colors for superior definition. Built with Costa's proprietary Bio-Resin, King Tide is also lightweight and maintains the durability necessary for any watery adventure.
“King Tide 6 is hands down the BEST pair of shades I’ve ever worn on the water,” says Costa Pro, Duane (Diego) Mellor. “As an offshore guide and angler, I depend on my eyes all day, every day. These (sunglasses) do everything I need them to and at the highest level. Epic work on the design and construction, Costa. They’re gonna be a huge hit!"
“Costa was born on the water in 1983, and today, we’re still doing what we do best - protecting the waters we love, inspiring our community and making the best damn sunglasses out there,” says John Acosta, Costa Sunglasses Vice President of Marketing NA. “We’re celebrating 40 years of bearing witness to life’s best moments on the water, while looking forward to what is coming next. King Tide is the biggest energy point around our anniversary year. It’s the result of 40 years of product innovation and the first time we’ve launched a frame in a six and eight base option. Cheers to another 40 years and to doing what we love most.”
Building launch hype, King Tide hits the market in three waves. In appreciation to the brick and mortar stores where Costa got its start, King Tide 6 and 8 will be available at select VIP specialty retailers beginning July 7, 2023. Following the first wave, Costa is dropping a 40th Anniversary Limited Edition collectors frame in black gold and a never before seen 580G gold lens. With just 40 frames available each, Limited Edition King Tide 6 and Limited Edition King Tide 8, the frames will be available online at CostaSunglasses.com on July 11, 2023. Finally, September 15, 2023, marks the global release when King Tide will be available online and at retail partners worldwide.
MSRP for King Tide 6 and King Tide 8 starts at $329. For more information about Costa’s complete collection of award-winning performance, optical and lifestyle frames, visit Costasunglasses.com.
Stunning New Bass Worm
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EVER GREEN introduces a one-of-a-kind, Japanese-borne worm perfect for pressured bass. |
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Cypress, CA (July 6, 2023) – The word is out. DAIWA EVER GREEN will be showing off a revolutionary, one-of-a-kind bait for tapping pressured bass at ICAST in Orlando, Florida. Called the “Bow Worm Noodle,” it’s the result of DAIWA Marketing Manager, Marc Mills’ consultation with in-the-know EVER GREEN bait designers and Japanese bass pros faced with extremely tough bass bites on pressured and clear waters. Yes, the Bow Worm Noodle is truly unique amidst countless “me too” bass worms… Although a full 8-inches long, it’s not another Floridian “speed worm” design. Quite the opposite. The EVER GREEN Bow Worm Noodle is intended for fishing weightless, wacky, Neko, or via dropshot. For example, when rigged wacky-style or on a dropshot hook, the Bow Worm Noodle undulates and coils with the slightest movement of the rod, the ultra-thin diameter soft plastic pulsing and writhing like a real nightcrawler. Add any amount of current and it’s even more lifelike. |
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SPECIAL MIMIZU |
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NATURAL EEL |
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DARK PLUM |
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GREEN PUMPKIN BLACK FLAKE |
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Besides its slinking movement, the Bow Worm Noodle features an EVER GREEN-formulated “Special Formula” scent comprised of real shrimp, squid, and baitfish impregnated into the salt-heavy plastic, thus encouraging more bites and bass to hang onto the artificial offering longer. “This bait has been huge for us,” says DAIWA Marketing Manager, Marc Mills. “We’ve sold a ton of them already. We expected to sell an initial 2,000 packs and have moved over 6,000 so far. And the interest is gaining serious momentum through word-of-mouth and social media. Bass anglers are catching lots of fish—and some big ones—on these worms.” Mills continues: “Unlike most worm designs that are thick, the Bow Worm is thin, like spaghetti. You can fish them a lot of different ways, but it really comes to life nose-hooked with #4 Mustad light-wire Mosquito hook on a dropshot. Most worms just kind of sit there and maybe move a little bit. The Bow Worm Noodle rolls and flips on top of itself. Bounce your dropshot off a rock and the Bow Worm Noodle will roll up on itself, then extend again,” offers Mills. |
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“All I can say is it’s money. You can catch everything from average-size fish to Southern California 10- to 12-pounders. When a bass eats it, the worm rolls up in its mouth just like a real worm. They’re awesome—and nobody’s making these. I’m super pumped.” Looking for the next hot bait for extremely tough conditions like clear waters and highly-pressured lakes? Look no further than the new EVER GREEN Bow Worm Noodle. Currently available in four colors: #01 Green Pumpkin BK; #11 Dark Plum; #90 Natural Eel; and #135 Special Mimizu. MSRP $10.99 per pack |
Stracner stepping away from Bassmaster Elite Series
July 6, 2023
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Former Bassmaster Elite Series Rookie of the Year Josh Stracner of Vandiver, Ala., is leaving Elite Series competition to pursue other career opportunities.
“My number one goal was always to qualify for the Elite Series,” Stracner said. “I got to travel around the country and fish professionally, which I will always cherish. Some of the guys that I got to fish with and travel with will be friends of mine forever.
“It’s weird to consider myself a ‘former’ Elite Series pro, but at the end of the day, that’s still a title that I’ll be able to carry with me for the rest of my life. I never wanted to fish with any other organization because I just wanted to be a Bassmaster, and I got to do that ... getting an opportunity to pursue a really good job opportunity has made this an easier decision.”
Stracner qualified for the Elite Series through the 2020 St. Croix Bassmaster Eastern Opens, where he averaged a 13th-place finish across four events. Stracner’s momentum didn’t stop there, as he went on to win the Dakota Lithium Bassmaster Elite Series Rookie of the Year title in 2021. Over the course of his 36-event B.A.S.S. career, Stracner registered 13 Top 30 finishes, 10 Top 20 finishes and qualified for the 2022 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Toyota.
Fin-Nor Lateral-Line Eyewear Helps Anglers Clearly Spot the Bite
Columbia S.C. (July 6, 2023) - Fin-Nor eyewear enhances fishing capabilities by providing optimal performance and eye protection under the harshest conditions, boasting advanced visibility features for sight fishing and superior lens technology. Purpose-built for anglers, Sportfisher, the newest Fin-Nor sunglasses model, will enter into the New Product Showcase eyewear category at ICAST 2023. Sportfisher redefines comfort and functionality, offering an exceptional visual experience on the water.
Fin-Nor is made for the fishing lifestyle empowering anglers to catch more fish with gear they can rely on. The Sportfisher sunglasses exemplify this commitment to helping people see beneath and beyond with all-day comfort in style.
The Fin-Nor Sportfisher features Lateral Line lens technology engineered to enhance sight without distortion. This technology gives anglers a clear advantage by making it easier to identify what's happening on and beneath the water's surface while reducing eye fatigue. The lenses are designed to decrease blue light transmission and glare, enabling anglers to have exceptional vision in foggy, hazy, or sunny conditions. With the right pair of sunglasses, anglers can improve their chances of a successful fishing experience even under challenging circumstances.
"The Fin-Nor Lateral Line Polarized Polycarbonate lens is built to perform on the water and proven to be 2X more scratch-resistant than our closest competitors*," said Steve Woolf, Category Manager for Fin-Nor. "Inspired by the barriers watermen and women face while pursuing their passion, Fin-Nor delivers superior lens technology designed to perform and provide all-day comfort while lending stylish function."
*Based on the Bayer (Alundum 10-SQ) scratch resistance test by Colts Laboratories.
- An oleophobic/hydrophobic coating on both sides of the lens reduces the negative impacts of smudging, dust, and spray to prevent permanent scratching.
- A 7-layer anti-reflective coating on glass lenses and a 5-layer coating on polycarbonate lenses, which blocks 99.7% of reflections and 100% of UVA and UVB rays
- The most accurate, distortion-free view of your surroundings that cuts through mist and haze.
Fin-Nor has designed the Sportfisher frames with adjustable nose pads, rubber temple tips, and integrated spring hinges to ensure all-day comfort. These features provide a snug but comfortable fit, allowing anglers to wear the sunglasses throughout the day without discomfort. The frames are constructed with lightweight, bio-based grilamid and megol materials, ensuring durability and a barely-there feel, so anglers can focus more on the tasks at hand and spend less time worrying about their sunglasses.
For more information about Fin-Nor Eyewear, please click here.
Sportfisher Models and Styles:
- Lens options: gray or copper (glass or polycarbonate)
- Mirror options: blue, green, or silver
- Frames colors: matte black and matte sienna tortoise
Available: Now
MSRP: $189-$259
HARDY REINVENTS A CLASSIC WITH RELEASE OF THE SOVEREIGN FLY REEL
Rediscover timeless excellence with the remake of the bestselling Hardy fly reel of all times
COLUMBIA, S.C. (July 6, 2023) – The return of a legend – a reimagined version of the most popular Hardy freshwater fly reel series ever. This highly-anticipated reintroduction marks the first time this Hardy reel, true to its original design and unchanged since the 1970s, is made available to anglers after decades.
The remastered Hardy reel features all the hallmarks that made it a favorite amongst the fly angling community, including its famed captivated half-cage design. But the remastered reel doesn’t just rest on its laurels. It comes packed with a host of modern innovations, meticulously engineered in England, to elevate the fishing experience to a new level.
One of these cutting-edge advancements is the powerful self-lubricating, sealed disc drag system, exerting over 5lbs of force while remaining super smooth and reliable. This gives the reel an impressive edge, ensuring every catch is managed with confidence, control, and precision. Adding to this is the newly incorporated on/off clicker, allowing for not only ease of adjustment and enhanced precision during casts and retrieves, but the ability to silence the outgoing clicker if preferred. The reel also boasts a fast and tool-free left or right hand selector lever change, as well as dual stainless-steel bearings for an ultra-smooth, ultra-fast retrieve, putting an end to challenging reeling experiences.
The Hardy Sovereign Reel will be available in two classic colors – Spitfire and Black, and in four sizes. This offering nods to the original design, reaffirming Hardy's commitment to preserving the timeless aesthetics that our anglers have come to love.
"With the reintroduction of this best-selling Hardy reel, we're merging the trusted design of the past with the advanced technology of today," said Jim Murphy, Director of Fly Fishing for Hardy. "We believe in celebrating our history, while constantly innovating for the future, and this reel stands testament to that philosophy."
FEATURES:
● Made by Hardy Bros Master Craftsmen in Alnwick, England
● Self-lubricating, sealed disc drag system which is smooth and reliable
● Fast, tool free left or right hand selector lever change
● Outgoing click can be silenced via a “poachers” switch
● Engineered from bar stock aluminum
● Deep anodized finish
● Supplied in a Hardy neoprene reel pouch
MSRP: Starting at $750.00
Available: September 2023
The Virtues of Laziness
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DAIWA’s new LAZY FA SHAD twitchbait reels them in with its signature slow-slalom-swim. |
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Cypress, CA (July 5, 2023) – Full-bodied swimbaits have proven that a carefree, practically lazy motion can trigger massive strikes. Works on freshwater bass. Dittos for inshore. The trouble with saltwater is that a pack of soft plastic swimbaits mightn’t get you through the morning. Let’s just say there are lot of paddletails left out there. So, what if you could replicate the same relaxed motion in a hardbait? Maybe factor in some subtle snaking around, too? Well, DAIWA did just that. The new LAZY FA SHAD puts the personality of a swimbait in a saltwater-grade twitchbait and included a sluggish slalom. |
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On a straight retrieve, DAIWA’s LAZY FA SHAD winds through the water like a relaxed baitfish – one destined to become a meal. The floating lure dives up to three-feet when engaged, precise depth dictated by the speed of retrieve and weight of the line, narrower pulling deeper. And, unlike a swimbait motoring with limited wobble, the LAZY FA SHAD rolls and shows its sides while in motion, broadcasting a subdued flash that says come and get me. The LAZY FA SHAD’s curious slalom action is produced by a conspicuous fin centered on the head of the bait. Sort of looks like a miniature aquatic rhinoceros. Despite the diminutive nature of the fin, though, it really moves the bait around. |
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The LAZY FA SHAD can be fished more aggressively, too. Technically categorized as a twitchbait, snapping the LAZY FA SHAD affects a sudden dive followed by a slow rise on the rest. And, because of the fin, each pull sends it in another direction. Essentially, it’s two lures in one: a slow swimmer and a ripper. Internally, the LAZY FA SHAD features a dual-purpose metal ball chamber. On the cast, it’s a weight-transfer system to impart exceptional launch distances, even bucking the wind. While retrieved, it emits subtle ticks that produce auditory responses – strikes – from inshore predators like redfish, trout, jacks, snook, calico bass, and others. Externally, the durable LAZY FA SHAD sports refined cosmetics, to include realistic eyeballs, gills and mouthparts, and scale patterns that capture light and throw color. Choose from a palette of proven saltwater patterns, including 3D KONOSIRO, SKELETON CHART BACK, SKELETON RED HEAD, SKELETON MULLET, HOLO SARDINE, and PINK CLEAR HOLO. For the first time, laziness is a virtue. |
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SKELETON MULLET |
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PINK CLEAR HOLO |
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SKELETON CHART BACK |
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SKELETON RED HEAD |
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KONOSHIRO |
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HOLO SARDINE |
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FEATURES:
MSRP $16.99 |
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Minn Kota Unveils Next-Level Trolling Motor Technology with Terrova and Ulterra Innovations
Minn Kota revolutionizes freshwater fishing experiences with streamlined Terrova and Ulterra GPS-enabled motors, featuring advanced sonar capabilities and upgraded wireless control.
RACINE, Wis. (JULY 6, 2023) – Minn Kota, the leading innovator in trolling motor technology, proudly introduces two groundbreaking updates to its esteemed product lineup: the Minn Kota Ulterra® and Terrova®. These state-of-the-art trolling motors represent a new era in fishing excellence, combining cutting-edge features, enhanced performance, and seamless integration. With a host of advanced capabilities, both the Ulterra and Terrova redefine the fishing experience, providing anglers with unrivaled precision, convenience, and power.
The restaging of the existing Terrova and Ulterra motors with the addition of QUEST technology gives anglers even more choices for a magnitude of fishing situations. Simplifying its product line and enhancing compatibility, Minn Kota has emphasized seamless connection with Humminbird head units. All Terrova and Ulterra motors are now equipped with GPS technology, fully compatible with Humminbird fish finders out of the box, giving anglers precise navigation and control.
Minn Kota Terrova and Ulterra Trolling Motors
To enhance the consumer experience, all GPS-enabled Terrova and Ulterra models now include adapter cables in the package, streamlining the buying and rigging process for faster setup and more time spent on the water. Additionally, the new models feature built-in 2D Sonar with Dual Spectrum CHIRP, offering exceptional target separation and detailed imaging. This advanced sonar technology provides unparalleled insights into underwater structures and fish behavior, revolutionizing fish-finding capabilities. The upgraded wireless remote, now standard with Terrova and Ulterra motors, ensures ultimate control and convenience, enhancing the user experience and maximizing productivity during fishing expeditions.
New Features for All Terrova and Ulterra Models:
- NEW Enhanced GPS Suite Including Drift Mode to allow anglers to spend more time fishing and less time on boat control
- Drift Mode: combats current and wind by automatically adjusting speed and direction to keep the boat on a true drift. Drift Mode acts as a gps drift sock eliminating the need for cumbersome ropes or shallow water anchor paddles
- Improved Follow-the-Contour functionality: allows for better LakeMaster and CoastMaster integration to stay on the desired course
- Dodge Mode: allows anglers to quickly leave auto navigation mode to manually steer through waves and around structures and then resume navigating without resetting their route.
- Out of the Box connection to Humminbird via the One-Boat Network by including all necessary adapters required for networking without additional need for setup
- One App for Everything – the One-Boat Network App can control everything on the boat from the trolling motor and shallow water anchors to the Humminbird head units
- Enhanced Built-in 2D Sonar with Dual Spectrum CHIRP adds Humminbird’s unrivaled sonar clarity to every Minn Kota motor
- NEW Wireless Remote with a simplified keypad, ergonomic design, and four programmable One-Boat Network Buttons
Terrova QUEST and Ulterra QUEST
The Minn Kota Terrova and Ulterra QUEST feature brushless motor technology for increased power, quieter operation, and extended run-time ideal for long fishing trips. Its dual 24V/36V capability ensures versatility and optimal performance simplifying the rigging process and saving valuable setup time. QUEST models feature Carbon Fiber-infused motor shafts providing added strength without compromising flexibility. Additionally, exclusive Humminbird built-in MEGA Side Imaging offers exceptional clarity and precision, empowering anglers with a comprehensive view of underwater structures and fish for enhanced navigation and successful catches.
Terrova and Ulterra QUEST Key Features:
- Dual 24 or 36 volt Brushless Motor with up to 30% longer runtime and 50% greater torque*
- Up to 30% longer runtime on a single charge provides anglers more time on the water
- Up to 50% greater torque means more precise control in wind and waves and the ability
- Hands-Free Operation: Anglers can wave goodbye to manual control and enjoy a completely immersive fishing experience.
- Auto Stow/Deploy: Effortlessly enter and exit the water with a single button press, eliminating the hassle of manually manipulating the motor.
- Power Trim: Adapt to changing conditions effortlessly with the ability to adjust the motor's angle for optimal performance.
- Redesigned and Upgraded Mount to accommodate the additional thrust and torque of the lower unit
- Carbon Fiber Infused Shaft for enhanced durability while maintaining flexibility to protect the bow of an angler’s boat
- Peak Performance and Efficiency from Updated Propellers which maximize torque throughout the speed range
- Real-Time Battery Monitoring System lets anglers know time until empty at a given speed setting and prompts users to enter a power saving eco mode when batteries reach 20% charge
- No Loss of Power: constant power throughout the day with no drop in motor performance as battery voltage decreases of the length of a fishing day
- One-Boat Network Programmable Button: customized presets to include stow and deploy Minn Kota shallow water anchors, mark a waypoint, or engage autopilot
- NEW Wireless Remote with a simplified keypad, ergonomic design, and four programmable One-Boat Network Buttons
- Available Shaft Lengths: 45”, 60”, and 72”
Terrova QUEST MSRP: $3,199.99 - $3,899.99
Terrova QUEST Available: August 2023
Ulterra QUEST MSRP: $3,799.99 - $4,499.99
Ulterra QUEST Available: November 2023
Unleash the Gremlin
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PLANO ICE HUNTER 3600 TACKLE BAG
The newest addition to Plano’s Ice Hunter line is purpose-built for ice anglers with both new and proven features.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (Jul 5, 2023) — Ice anglers rejoice! The Plano Ice Hunter 3600 Tackle Bag delivers a unique, water-resistant storage solution for all of the gear you need on hard water. It’s equipped with a water-resistant, rechargeable lithium-ion LED light, quick-access jig compartment, customizable storage, and more.
The Ice Hunter comes with three Plano 3600 StowAway Utility Boxes and features a customizable interior with a removable divider for maximum control over storing your gear. The waterproof molded base with non-slip rubber feet will keep your bag dry while the quick-access EVA foam ice jig compartment provides safe and easy access for bait changes when the bite is hot. In addition, the external tool holder makes accessing your gear quick and convenient.
Key Features
• Removable LED light rotates 180 degrees (charger included)
• IPX4 water-resistant, rechargeable lithium-ion LED light
• LED light features 4 modes – 2 working modes, a solid red light and an SOS blinking red light
• Quick-access EVA foam jig compartment
• Waterproof molded base with non-slip rubber feet
• External tool hanger to store commonly used tools
• Adjustable internal divider to customize storage
• Includes (3) Plano 3600 StowAway Utility Boxes
MSRP: $99.99
Available: September 2023
INTRODUCING THE ALL-NEW HARDY MARKSMAN Z FLY ROD
Redefining Performance in Saltwater Fishing
COLUMBIA, S.C. (July 5, 2023) – Just in time for those saltwater flats trips, the Hardy Marksman Z Fly Rod is a groundbreaking addition to our premier saltwater rod range. This innovative rod leverages the latest in performance materials to deliver a level of strength, reduced weight, and durability unmatched in the market.
The Hardy Marksman Z Fly Rod is designed to be an angler's ally in the unpredictable and varied challenges of the saltwater environment. From calm, early morning runs to windy afternoons, the Hardy Marksman Z ensures an optimal cast, even from an unstable platform.
This rod is designed with a unique blend of feel, power, and recovery, resulting in a product that promises an unrivaled fishing experience. As a hundred pounds of chrome goes airborne, or as six pounds of silver leaves the flat as if fired from a gun, you can be confident that the Marksman Z in your hand can do the job and, of course, the adrenaline rush is guaranteed.
This exceptional blend of characteristics was brought to life through a collaborative design process. In partnership with some of the world's finest saltwater guides, seasoned anglers, and industry legends, we've crafted the Hardy Marksman Z to be the perfect tool for your perfect moment in salt. Built with Sintrix FLT that is applied to an updated mandrel design, the Marksman Z was created with a strong butt section that gives you increased lifting power in the lower section of the rod making it strong enough to pull big fish from cover yet extremely light in the hand.
The Hardy Marksman Z Fly Rod stands up to the most demanding saltwater conditions, offering the reliability needed for everything from Gold Cups to Grand Slams and a thousand different challenges in between. Regardless of the changing tides or shifting winds, the Hardy Marksman Z is your steadfast companion in the saltwater world.
"We're delighted to introduce the Hardy Marksman Z, the newest addition to our superior range of fishing rods," said Jim Murphy, Director of Fly Fishing for Hardy. "Our goal is to provide anglers with the best possible equipment that can stand up to any condition, and we believe the Hardy Marksman Z Fly Rod exemplifies this commitment."
- Sintrix FLT on an updated mandrel design
- Increased lifting power in the lower section
- Reduced overall in-hand weight
- Easy to load yet fast tip recovery for more accurate casts under pressured situations
- Hybrid ring specification that blends durability and practicality using both Cerecoil and recoil stripper guides
- Aluminum uplocking reel seat with easy to grip locking nuts to ensure a solid reel fit
MSRP: Starting at $995
Available: September 2023
Small Baits, Bite Detection and the Short Rod Crusade
New Z-Man® Drew’s Ultimate Ned Rig Rods blend primo rod-crafting with whispers of retro finesse
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American Hero Camo Family Receives New Look, Features
Columbia, S.C. – June 28, 2023 – Donning a new Hero Cam camo pattern, the new American Hero Camo family of reels and combos have been updated and upgraded with a new look and new features. Crafted with the American warrior in mind, Lew’s American Hero Camo tackle delivers on all fronts – from looks to performance.
“The American Hero program from Lew's not only offers great gear at great prices, but funds also generated from these products have created opportunities to get our veterans on the water as a means to cope and find peace of mind,” shares Jamey Caldwell, Sergeant Major (Retired) and Professional Angler.
The American Hero Camo baitcast combos feature a new, lower profile reel and one-piece graphite frame and sideplate design. Built to last, the reel features high strength solid brass Speed Gears®, a premium 6-bearing system containing stainless steel double shielded ball bearings, and an externally adjustable Magnetic Control System (MCS). The powerful American Hero Camo baitcast combo has an IM7, 1-piece graphite blank to provide the structural strength and lightweight flexibility that anglers demand and a split-grip EVA rod handle with embossed American Hero logo.
Delivering trusted Lew’s performance, the American Hero Camo spinning combos have spinning reels constructed with a solid, one-piece graphite frame, housing a 6-bearing system with stainless steel double shielded ball bearings for seamless casting day in and day out. With overall refreshed rods and actions, the new American Hero spinning combo features an IM7, 2-piece graphite blank with split-grip EVA handles with embossed American Hero logo. “As a retired combat veteran myself, I couldn't be more honored to be a part of a program that has stood behind veterans for so many years now,” says Caldwell.
MSRP:
Baitcast reels: $79.99
Spinning reels: $49.99
Baitcast combos: $119.99
Spinning combos: $84.99
Team Lew’s Releases Redesigned, Lightweight Custom Lite Rods
Columbia, S.C. – June 28, 2023 – The team at Lew’s has worked to fine tune actions, grips, and blank materials to create the new line of Custom Lite Rods, with a specific focus on extremely lightweight components. The lineup includes 20 casting models and eight spinning models, including two BFS style casting actions designed for fishing light line and lightweight baits, such as small swimbaits, jerkbaits, ned rigs, and shakey heads on casting tackle.
“I had a blast testing and tweaking these new rods with the guys at Lew's. We've got a ton of great actions that are perfect for the way I fish,” shares Mark Zona, host of Zona's Awesome Fishing Show and co-host of Bassmaster Live.
All Custom Lite Rods have HM85 graphite blanks for sensitivity and stainless-steel guides with titanium oxide inserts for durability, with spinning rods featuring a new Comfort Plus ergonomic reel seat designed in partnership with Zona and casting rods featuring a Full Contact reel seat for direct blank contact while fishing. The new Custom Lites have split grip handles with Lew's exclusive Winn® Dri-Tac Ultra ProWeave™ Grips for all day comfort and control.
“The new Comfort Plus reel seat on these spinning rods is perfect, it's just the way I want it. It might be the most comfortable handle I've used through the years!" says Zona.
The new Custom Lite Rods pair perfectly with Custom Lite Baitcast Reel, Custom Lite SS Baitcast Reel (best with BFS action rods), and the Custom Lite Spinning Reel.
MSRP: $149.99-$179.99
Team Lew’s Releases Lighter HyperMag Baitcast Reel
Columbia, S.C. – June 28, 2023 – Continuing to push the limits of innovation and performance, Team Lew’s has redesigned the HyperMag baitcast reel to enhance not only function, but experience. The HyperMag has been upgraded to include the P2 Super Pinion® double bearing supported pinion gear, offering a better gear mesh for smoothness and extended gear life. The ergonomic one-piece magnesium frame and C40 carbon sideplates are strong and extremely lightweight, with the reel weighing in at only 5.2 oz. The “barely-there” feel of this reel is ever-present, giving anglers the comfort and control they desire.
The new features don’t stop there – the recessed brake adjustment dial contributes to the low-profile design, the Speed Knot™ quick line attachment spool enables easy and quick line attachment, and the JDM-style Winn® handle knobs provide outstanding grip and comfort. In line with the original, the new HyperMag has a 4-pin SpeedCast® externally Adjustable Centrifugal Brake (ACB) system, 11 bearing system, Speed Keeper® hook keeper, and Speed Dial® line indicator, bringing all of the best features together in one of Lew’s lightest, most efficient baitcast reel to date.
The HyperMag reel is very heavily utilized by tournament pros and avid bass anglers, making this one of the most highly sought after Lew’s reels. “What I love about the HyperMag is you feel like it's not even there – it becomes part of you, if you know what I mean. It's just right,” shares Greg Hackney, Professional Angler in the Bassmaster Elite Series.
MSRP: $349.99
Strike King Releases New Sexy Shad 2.0, Adds More Color Options to Hybrid Hunter Family
Columbia, SC – Strike King launches the new Sexy Shad 2.0 and adds 10 new colors to the Hybrid Hunter family. Sexy Shad, a staple color in many anglers’ arsenal, has been redesigned to enhance the eye-catching, fish-attracting effect of the original Sexy Shad. A new twist on an old favorite, Sexy Shad 2.0 is available in hard baits, spinnerbaits, jigs, and soft plastics.
“I remember working with the team in 2008 to design the original Sexy Shad color. We set the standard for the Sexy Shad color you see across the industry. And now we have set the standard again!” says Kevin VanDam, MLF Bass Pro Tour Angler.
The best grass crankbait in the industry, Hybrid Hunter, now has 10 new color options for anglers to “match the hatch” in any environment. The Hybrid Hunter is known for having a loud internal rattle system and is incredibly buoyant, allowing you to rip through grass and other cover to stay in the strike zone longer. The team at Strike King worked meticulously to hand pick legendary Strike King colors for this expansion as well as design some totally new colors, like Ghost Herring or Ghost Gill, that would excel in the Hybrid Hunter. The 10 new colors are available in all Hybrid Hunter models – junior and standard sizes in both shallow and diving models.
MSRP:
Sexy Shad 2.0: $4.99-$17.99
Hybrid Hunter: $9.99
Strike King Releases New Crankbait Designed by KVD and Todd Castledine
Columbia, S.C. – June 28, 2023 – Delivering a wide wobble action in a bite-sized, 1.5 profile, Strike King's new Gravel
Dawg grinds through rock, wood, and grass better than any medium-diving crank bait in its class. Strike King pros Todd
Castledine and Kevin VanDam worked diligently to design the ideal, “go to” crankbait for anglers across the country.
“I can't wait for the world to get to know this crankbait. I have been fishing prototype versions of the Gravel Dawg for
over a year and I knew right away that it was going to be special!" says Kevin VanDam, MLF Bass ProTour Angler. “It runs
true through all types of cover – rock, brush, grass. Nothing stops the Gravel Dawg!”
The Gravel Dawg comes in two different versions – the Gravel Dawg 8 and Gravel Dawg 10. Both sizes keep the same
body profile and size, but the bill changes between the two to achieve different diving depths. These baits will have you
covered in the 5-10 ft. range throughout all parts of the country. We recommend grabbing your favorite Lew’s medium
diving crankbait rod and going to work with the all-new Gravel Dawg.
“Those new craw patterns are going to excel in the Gravel Dawg. We work with one of the most talented custom lure
painters in the world when we develop new colors, and these are a work of art. We added in a few new shad patterns as
well, to really round out the color assortment for year-round success in every situation!” says VanDam.
MSRP: $9.99
Strike King Expands Legendary Jerkbait Selection with New KVD Elite, Sinking Series
Columbia, S.C. – June 28, 2023 – Adding depth to an already robust jerkbait collection, Strike King introduces the new
KVD J300 Deep Sinking Jerkbait and an even wider color selection to the KVD Elite Jerkbait line up.
The KVD Elite Jerkbait is tournament ready right out of the package with upgraded Mustad Triple Grip hooks and
premium paint finishes. It maintains the action of the legendary Strike King jerkbaits.
“I am really excited to bring my KVD Elite Jerkbait series into the 200 and 300 Deep bodies. We spent a lot of time
tweaking these colors to make them the best they could be. With my signature Mustad Triple Grip Hooks already on the
baits, these are tournament winners right out of the package!” says Kevin VanDam, MLF Bass Pro Tour Angler.
The new KVD J300 Deep Sinking Jerkbait allows you to fish a jerkbait in depths that no other jerkbait can get to. Watch it
sink down on your forward-facing sonar until it gets to the depth you desire, then start ripping it back to the boat and
watch the fish go crazy. The jerkbait is weighted perfectly to sink nearly 0.5-feet per second and maintains the amazing
erratic action of the standard KVD 300 Deep Jerkbait.
“I’ve spent a lot of time playing with the KVD J300 Deep Sinking Jerkbait and utilizing weights to allow me to fish deeper.
We've added some weight to the new KVD J300 Deep Sinking Jerkbait without compromising the action of the lure. I can
watch it sink right down to fish on my Humminbird LIVE that I could never reach with a jerkbait... until now!” says Mark
Zona, host of Zona's Awesome Fishing Show and co-host of Bassmaster Live.
MSRP:
KVD Elite J200 & J300: $14.99
KVD J300 Deep Sinking Jerkbait: $11.99
Lew’s Releases New Tournament Grade MACH Jacked Combos
Columbia, S.C. – June 28, 2023 – Take your passion for the chase one step further with the new MACH Jacked combos. MACH Jacked combos are the most premium, tournament-quality combos ever offered from MACH – available in spinning and baitcast models.
“These combos are truly the best combos the market has ever seen. Extremely lightweight, extremely sensitive. Take them to fish a derby this Saturday from a bass boat or kayak or be locked and loaded to tackle a local pond,” shares Tony
Mehrl, Brand Manager for Lew's.
Delivering heightened precision and control, the baitcast combos feature a premium 10-bearing system with stainless steel double shielded ball bearings, a Multi-Setting Brake system (MSB) with internally adjustable centrifugal braking pins and externally adjustable magnetic braking, and come available in five bass-focused, tournament level lengths and actions for avid anglers.
The spinning combos provide unquestionable performance with a premium 10-bearing system, lightweight C40 carbon rotor with one piece bail, an extremely smooth drag system, and a new Comfort Plus ergonomic spinning reel seat, available in three bass-focused, tournament level lengths and actions for weekend warriors and fierce competitors alike.
Both spinning and baitcast combos are built with extremely lightweight Tanso Tech reel frames and HM50 rod blanks with Winn® Dri-Tac Ultra ProWeave™ split grip rod handles and reel handle knobs, providing the texture and appearance of carbon weave matched with the extreme comfort and feel of Winn Ultra material.
“I promise you, the reels used in these combos will stand up against the best out there on the market. They are extremely lightweight, extremely smooth, and are up to the task in really any scenario. They're ready to roll,” Mehrl says.
MSRP:
Spinning: $249.99
Baitcast: $259.99
New Bitsy Family Adds Additional Size Options to Popular Strike King Baits
Columbia, S.C. – June 28, 2023 – Strike King releases the new Bitsy family, a line up of four popular Strike King baits now
available in a “bitsy” size. Anglers can find some of their favorite Strike King baits – like the Sexy Dawg, KVD Splash, Red
Eyed Shad – in a super small finesse profile that will catch fish from coast-to-coast, anywhere there is water.
“We built these baits with one goal in mind – to offer a lineup of baits that anglers at every level can use to catch a ton
of fish,” says Lucas Murphy, Strike King Brand Manager. The Bitsy family provides a finesse profile that can be more
efficient at triggering finicky bites. The team at Strike King ensured that all Bitsy lures were built to provide all the same
benefits as the originals, just in a smaller package. “Everyone gets excited when they get their hands on the new Bitsy
products. We made sure that they match the quality and action of their full-sized siblings,” Murphy shares.
The full Bitsy family includes the Bitsy Dawg, Bitsy Splash, Bitsy Red Eyed Shad, Bitsy Jerkbait and Bitsy Spinner which is
available in 1/16 oz., 1/8 oz., 1/4 oz., and 3/8 oz. Not only will these help anglers catch a boatload of bass, but countless
other species have been falling victim to these new Bitsy products. Bass, trout, panfish – no fish is safe when Bitsy rolls
into town!
MSRP:
Bitsy Spinner: $3.99
All other Bitsy products: $5.99
Strike King Releases New, More Efficient S11 “Spotlight” Yellow Lenses for Enhanced Visibility
Columbia, S.C. – June 28, 2023 – Strike King releases the S11 “Spotlight” Yellow lens color, agreed upon to be the most effective color for identifying movement and structure under the water, especially in dim conditions. Strike King’s new Spotlight Yellow lenses are the absolute #1 pick among Strike King Pro Staff during the entire year. S11 polarization with the yellow mirror finish work together to function as a “spotlight” for anglers to see further beneath the water than any other lens color. These lenses are extremely impactful when fishing in low light conditions, whether early in the morning, late in the evening, or during cloudy afternoons. The Spotlight Yellow bi-gradient lens is available in two frame colors, matte gray or matte black, and in four different frame styles – Pickwick, Okeechobee, Caddo, and the new Eutaw. The solid, matte-colored frames assist in blocking out outside light and glare, enhancing the effectiveness of the glasses.
“I will use this 'Spotlight' Yellow lens 90% of the time. Whether you are actually looking at the fish, or just looking for cover beneath the surface that the fish may be holding on, looking through these lenses is similar to shining a ‘spotlight’ on them – they can't hide,” says Greg Hackney, Professional Angler in the Bassmaster Elite Series.
Look and fish like a pro without breaking the bank – S11 “Spotlight” Yellow glasses are available in any frame for $39.99.
MSRP: $39.99
Strike King Adds to Their Legendary Rage Tail Plastics Line Up
Columbia, S.C. – June 28, 2023 – The Rage Hawk and the Rage Luau Craw are the newest additions to the long line of Rage Tail Plastics from Strike King. Rage products are commonly identified by the patented Rage appendages found on the arms and claws of the products. Both the Rage Hawk and Rage Luau Craw build upon the traditional Rage style to push the limits of innovation and entice more bites.
Rage Hawk is 3.25” and features a super compact profile, with two Rage arms extending from the side of the bait. It is able to fit up to a 5/0 hook in its smaller body style, increasing hook up ratios and presenting fish with the perfect, snack-sized bite for finicky bass. “The Rage Hawk packs a big punch. It's an awesome option for when you're getting a lot of short strikes or just want to show them something different,” says Andy Montgomery, MLF Bass Pro Professional Angler.
Rage Luau Craw is built from the body of the most famous craw-shaped soft bait in the world – Strike King’s Rage Craw. With the addition of a soft plastic skirt to the tip of the Rage Craw, the team at Strike King successfully designed the first “luau-style” soft bait of its kind, surprising fish with something they’ve never seen before. “[Rage] Luau Craw was built to party, if you know what I mean. You can pitch it, flip it, Texas rig it... it has no limits,” says Greg Hackney, Bassmaster Elite Series Professional Angler.
Along with the introduction of Rage Hawk and Rage Luau Craw, Strike King has also released the popular Rage Scounbug in a bulkier size. “In my opinion, the Scounbug is the perfect soft plastic bait for every application... period. You can pitch it, flip it, cast it, Carolina rig it, and man is it good as a jig/swim jig trailer!” says Mark Rose.
A perfect match for any Rage Tail soft plastic, Strike King also introduces the new Tour Grade Rage Swimmin’ Head is built with an exceptional keeper to hold your soft bait in place. The lower keeper extends the weight of the jighead throughout the belly of the swimbait, allowing the bait to swim perfectly horizontal with the surface of the water. “I spend a lot of time with a swimbait in my hand – specifically a Rage Swimmer. We built this head to be the ultimate Rage Swimmer jighead,” says Tristan McCormick, Professional Angler.
MSRP:
Rage Plastics: $6.99
Tour Grade Rage Swimmin’ Head: $5.99 for pack of 3
Wiesner claims B.A.S.S. Nation Northern Regional win on home waters of Winnebago
Josh Wiesner of Fon du Lac, Wis., has won the 2023 TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Northern Regional at Lake Winnebago with a three-day total of 44 pounds, 3 ounces.
Photo by Grant Moxley/B.A.S.S.
June 30, 2023
MENASHA, Wis. — The TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Northern Regional at Lake Winnebago was a challenge for every competitor, but hometown angler Josh Wiesner figured out the finicky smallmouth bite the best.
Wiesner, who lives in Oakfield, near the southern shore of Lake Winnebago, caught a three-day total of 15 bass weighing 44 pounds, 3 ounces. It was a hard-earned victory that came with a $6,000 prize, part of a $40,650 total cash purse divvied among the best of the week’s competitors.
Wiesner bagged a limit of 14-2 on Friday, which followed his earlier limits of 15-2 and 14-15. He took the lead on Day 2 and slammed the door with authority on Friday, finishing the derby more than 5 1/2 pounds ahead of his nearest competitor.
Wiesner acknowledged Winnebago can be stingy at times, but the 45-year-old angler said the wind that blew Friday helped his cause.
“When I pre-fished on Sunday, the wind was blowing and the fish were biting,” he said. “I had a limit in less than an hour today. It was 6:54 a.m. It was only 8 pounds, but I lost a couple 3-pounders right next to the boat … and I hadn’t lost any fish like that in the tournament otherwise. Then the wind kicked up and I told my partner we’d start clobbering them, and we did.”
Wiesner estimated he had 40 bites on Friday, though not all of them were keepers. Still, his output was better than some who didn’t have that many bites the entire tournament.
Wiesner said his best bites came around rocks in anywhere from 4 to 9 feet of water. His main lures were a 2 3/4-inch tube bait (green pumpkin/orange flake) and a Bass Assassin Skunk Ape (also green pumpkin).
“They were feeding on crawfish and shiners,” Wiesner said. “I could see them on the Garmin LiveScope and would watch the fish eat the bait. About half the time it happened when the lure was still falling. The other half, I’d shake the line and one would grab it and take off.”
Wiesner’s win earned him a spot in the 2023 TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Championship on Lake Hartwell on Oct. 18-20 in South Carolina. It’ll be his first trip to the Nation title event.
He said he’s primarily competed in walleye events in more than 25 years of tournament fishing, so to win a B.A.S.S. Nation tournament against some of the best anglers from 10 different states was a statement victory.
“It’s exciting to take the bass thing to the next level,” he said. “This is something different for me and it could be the next part of my journey.”
The tournament featured 100 competitors in both angler and co-angler fields, with the field trimmed to the Top 26 in each on Friday. The Top 10 in both divisions advanced to October’s championship on Hartwell.
Rounding out the Top 5 in the angler division were second, South Dakota’s Troy Diede, 38-10, $3,000; third, Ohio’s B.J. Baxter, 38-8, $2,000; fourth, Minnesota’s Jay Swanson, 38-2, $1,500; and Wisconsin’s Lonnie Peterson, 37-10, $1,000.
Robert Swem, of Buchanan, Mich., won the Phoenix Boats Big Bass award of $500 for the 4-9 he caught Thursday. Wiesner won an additional $500 for being the highest-placing angler using Garmin electronics.
Tyler Guthmiller, a Yankton, S.D., resident who qualified through the South Dakota B.A.S.S. Nation, won the co-angler championship with eight bass totaling 20-14. He collected a $2,750 cash prize for the win.
Top 5 co-anglers at Winnebago were, second, Wisconsin’s Bryan Schumacher, 19-1, $1,500; third, Wisconsin’s Dylan Esselman, 18-12, $1,000; fourth, Minnesota’s Miles Lausch, 15-13, $600; and fifth, Indiana’s Carl Bowser, 15-7, $500.
Nebraska’s Leray Anderson II caught a 3-13 on Day 1 to claim a $250 prize for Phoenix Boats Big Bass among co-anglers.
This week’s tournament was the first B.A.S.S. Nation visit to Lake Winnebago since 2008 and the fourth of five regular-season Nation stops in 2023, following tournaments on the Arkansas River in Oklahoma, Douglas Lake in Tennessee and the Potomoc River in Maryland. The fifth will be held on Arizona’s Lake Powell on Aug. 30-Sept 1., followed by the championship on Hartwell.
The Top 3 anglers from the Nation Championship will win spots in the 2024 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Toyota when it’s held March 22-24 on Grand Lake O’ The Cherokees in Tulsa, Okla. The winner at Hartwell also will earn a berth into the 2024 Bassmaster Elite Series as well as use of a fully-rigged, Nation’s Best Toyota Tundra truck and Nitro boat.
The tournament was hosted by the Fox Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau.
2023 B.A.S.S. Nation Title Sponsor: TNT Fireworks
2023 B.A.S.S. Nation Platinum Sponsor: Toyota
2023 B.A.S.S. Nation Premier Sponsors: Bass Pro Shops, Dakota Lithium, Humminbird, Mercury, Minn Kota, Nitro Boats, Power-Pole, Progressive Insurance, Ranger Boats, Rapala, Skeeter Boats, Yamaha
2023 B.A.S.S. Nation Supporting Sponsors: AFTCO, Daiwa, Garmin, Lew's, Marathon, Triton Boats, VMC
Connect with #Bassmaster on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok.
About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the 500,000-member organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.
The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Bassmaster Elite Series, St. Croix Bassmaster Opens Series, TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Series, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors, Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Team Championship, Yamaha Rightwaters Bassmaster Kayak Series powered by TourneyX, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Toyota.
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Media Contact: Emily Harley, B.A.S.S. Communications Manager, 205-313-0945, [email protected]
2023 TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation
2023 TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Northern Regional 6/28-6/30
Lake Winnebago, Menasha WI.
(BOATER) Standings Day 3
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Josh Wiesner Fon du Lac, WI (WI) 15 44-03 0
2. Troy Diede Sioux Falls, SD (SD) 15 38-10 0
3. BJ Baxter Willshire, OH (OH) 15 38-08 0
4. Jay Swanson Lakeville, MN (MN) 14 38-02 0
5. Lonnie Peterson Chippewa Falls, WI (WI) 15 37-10 0
6. Brian Hensley Edwardsburg, MI (IN) 14 37-06 0
7. Taylor Umland Carlock, IL (IL) 14 36-09 0
8. Justin Kohl Hastings, NE (SD) 15 36-06 0
9. Bill Baker Winnebago, IL (IL) 15 35-11 0
10. Curtis Samo Rochelle, IL (IL) 15 35-01 0
11. Adam Hamann Prairie Du Chien, IA (I 12 34-02 0
12. Casey Morgan Byron, IL (IL) 15 34-02 0
13. Nic Rand Kalamazoo, MI (MI) 14 33-08 0
14. Casey Hoffman New London, WI (WI) 15 33-07 0
15. Troy Kilgas Combined Locks, WI (WI) 14 32-07 0
16. Brock Gullixon Lola, WI (WI) 14 32-00 0
17. Dan Mohn Lansing, IA (IA) 13 31-05 0
18. Joseph Sanderson Channahon, IL (IL) 14 31-03 0
19. Ryan Koehn-Lofts Ada, MI (MI) 13 31-02 0
20. Dan Welsh Elko New Mrkt, MN (MN) 11 29-05 0
21. Blake Knies Jasper, IN (IN) 12 29-01 0
22. Tyler Darling Rapid City, SD (ND) 12 24-14 0
23. Jerry Pape Bella Vista, AR (NE) 12 23-05 0
24. Joe May Luverne, MN (ND) 11 21-05 0
25. Andrew Behnke Fond Du Lac, WI (WI) 10 19-15 0
26. Andrew Paulsen Marion, IA (IA) 8 19-08 0
27. Robert Hime Odessa, MO (NE) 10 19-07 0
28. Scott Cremeans Albany, OH (OH) 10 18-13 0
29. Brian Perzentka Oshkosh, WI (WI) 9 18-10 0
30. Shane Peters Shelbyville, IN (IN) 10 18-10 0
31. Denny Cook Auburn, IN (MI) 8 18-08 0
32. Adam Crigger Le Claire, IA (IA) 7 18-03 0
33. Jim Blumenstein Bolingbrook, IL (IL) 8 17-02 0
34. Robert Swem Buchanan, MI (MI) 7 17-01 0
35. Brad Norris Hudson, IL (IL) 7 17-00 0
36. Bob Bayless Indianapolis, IN (IN) 9 16-10 0
37. Michael Rubino Hoffman Est, IL (IL) 8 16-07 0
38. Justin Schneider New London, MN (MN) 6 16-02 0
39. Eric Ritter Albertville, MN (MN) 9 16-01 0
40. Brian Bengtson Bloomington, MN (MN) 9 15-13 0
41. Monty Fralick Martin, SD (SD) 6 15-08 0
42. Kyle Waller Thornville, OH (OH) 6 15-06 0
43. Jeremiah Acton Shelbyville, MI (MI) 9 15-05 0
44. Matt Reagan Allendale, MI (MI) 8 15-02 0
45. Jeremy Tenwalde Fort Jennings, OH (OH) 6 15-00 0
46. Jesse Weener Holland, MI (MI) 8 14-11 0
47. Tom Forrester Solsberry, IN (IN) 7 14-07 0
48. Mike Obal Jr Springfield, NE (NE) 7 14-06 0
49. Rick Sawyer Albion, IN (MI) 6 14-02 0
50. Jason Citta Hershey, NE (NE) 7 13-14 0
51. Mathew Bertram Worthington, OH (OH) 5 13-07 0
52. Donald Roberts Bellville, OH (OH) 6 13-03 0
53. Brock Belik Orchard, NE (SD) 6 12-15 0
54. Kobie Koenig Cohassett, MN (MN) 6 12-13 0
55. Justin Rowe New Auburn, WI (WI) 6 12-11 0
56. Tyler Wolf Creston, IA (NE) 5 12-09 0
57. Kevin Schleeter Fort Jennings, OH (OH) 6 12-07 0
58. Bryan Close Fairbank, IA (IA) 6 12-01 0
59. Peter Tuls Grand Haven, MI (MI) 6 11-15 0
60. Daniel Fabiano Maple Grove, MN (MN) 6 11-14 0
61. Tanner Bock Davenport, IA (IA) 6 11-10 0
62. Allex Conner Delaware, OH (OH) 5 11-03 0
63. Eugene Sherman Hartland, WI (WI) 5 11-02 0
64. Blake Albertson BLOOMINGTON, IN (IN) 5 10-15 0
65. Shane Stiehl Pierre, SD (SD) 5 10-09 0
66. Grant Farmer Aberdeen, SD (ND) 4 10-05 0
67. Mark Nies Cannelton, IN (IN) 5 10-04 0
68. Andy Toft Canton, SD (SD) 5 10-00 0
69. Lance Jensen Saint Francis, MN (MN) 5 10-00 0
70. Ben Stacy Cincinnati, OH (OH) 5 09-14 0
71. John Wadsworth Killdeer, ND (ND) 4 09-02 0
72. Owen Hentschel Traverse City, MI (MI) 5 08-12 0
73. Kyle Pohjola Oshkosh, WI (WI) 5 08-04 0
74. Danny Ryan Jr Louisville, KY (OH) 5 08-03 0
75. Tom Logue Tyndall, SD (SD) 3 08-01 0
76. Ed Bauer Mooresville, IN (IN) 4 08-00 0
77. Chris Brokman Council Bluffs, IA (NE) 4 07-15 0
78. Dave McCoy Plattsmouth, NE (NE) 4 07-14 0
79. Harry Ladner Jr Estelline, SD (ND) 3 07-11 0
80. Jeff Smith Avon, IN (IN) 4 07-07 0
81. Jason Boswell Corning, IA (NE) 3 07-04 0
82. Thomas Reding Papillion, NE (NE) 3 07-03 0
83. Nicholas King Tinley Park, IL (IL) 3 07-02 0
84. Justin Hill Center City, MN (MN) 3 06-15 0
85. Bryce Hauf Winner, SD (SD) 3 06-14 0
86. George Brown Camby, IN (IN) 3 06-10 0
87. Cody Oberfoell Marion, IA (IA) 3 06-05 0
87. Bob Slama Harrisburg, SD (SD) 3 06-05 0
89. Jared Knuth Wahoo, NE (NE) 3 06-01 0
90. Mike Towe Braidwood, IL (IL) 3 05-14 0
91. Ross Olson Brooten, MN (MN) 3 05-00 0
92. Aaron Faulk Long Grove, IA (IA) 2 04-05 0
93. Joe Moyer Dubuque, IA (IA) 2 04-00 0
94. Collin Tweten Decorah, IA (IA) 2 03-15 0
95. Tony Reinbold Timber Lake, SD (ND) 2 03-13 0
96. Michael Messall Bismarck, ND (ND) 2 03-07 0
97. Casey Briggs Highmore, SD (ND) 2 03-04 0
98. Justin Welch Sioux Falls, SD (ND) 1 01-11 0
99. Aaron Coe Lake Benton, MN (ND) 0 -1-00 0
99. Cliff Van Beek Canistota, SD (SD) 0 -1-00 0
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 36 336 751-08
2 35 286 631-06
3 15 107 255-03
----------------------------------
86 729 1638-01
TEAM STANDINGS Day 3
----------------------------------
State Lbs-Oz
1 WISCONSIN 318-13
2 ILLINOIS 317-04
3 INDIANA 240-04
4 MINNESOTA 228-15
5 MICHIGAN 223-06
6 OHIO 212-06
7 IOWA 202-14
8 NEBRASKA 200-01
9 SOUTH DAKOTA 182-08
10 NORTH DAKOTA 168-07
INDIVIDUAL STANDINGS Day 3
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
IOWA
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Total $$$
1 Adam Hamann Prairie Du Chien, IA 12 34-02 0
2 Dan Mohn Lansing, IA 13 31-05 0
3 Andrew Paulsen Marion, IA 8 19-08 0
4 Adam Crigger Le Claire, IA 7 18-03 0
5 Bryan Close Fairbank, IA 6 12-01 0
6 Tanner Bock Davenport, IA 6 11-10 0
7 Cody Oberfoell Marion, IA 3 06-05 0
8 Aaron Faulk Long Grove, IA 2 04-05 0
9 Joe Moyer Dubuque, IA 2 04-00 0
10 Collin Tweten Decorah, IA 2 03-15 0
ILLINOIS
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Total $$$
1 Taylor Umland Carlock, IL 14 36-09 0
2 Bill Baker Winnebago, IL 15 35-11 0
3 Curtis Samo Rochelle, IL 15 35-01 0
4 Casey Morgan Byron, IL 15 34-02 0
5 Joseph Sanderson Channahon, IL 14 31-03 0
6 Jim Blumenstein Bolingbrook, IL 8 17-02 0
7 Brad Norris Hudson, IL 7 17-00 0
8 Michael Rubino Hoffman Est, IL 8 16-07 0
9 Nicholas King Tinley Park, IL 3 07-02 0
10 Mike Towe Braidwood, IL 3 05-14 0
INDIANA
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Total $$$
1 Brian Hensley Edwardsburg, MI 14 37-06 0
2 Blake Knies Jasper, IN 12 29-01 0
3 Shane Peters Shelbyville, IN 10 18-10 0
4 Bob Bayless Indianapolis, IN 9 16-10 0
5 Tom Forrester Solsberry, IN 7 14-07 0
6 Blake Albertson BLOOMINGTON, IN 5 10-15 0
7 Mark Nies Cannelton, IN 5 10-04 0
8 Ed Bauer Mooresville, IN 4 08-00 0
9 Jeff Smith Avon, IN 4 07-07 0
10 George Brown Camby, IN 3 06-10 0
MICHIGAN
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Total $$$
1 Nic Rand Kalamazoo, MI 14 33-08 0
2 Ryan Koehn-Lofts Ada, MI 13 31-02 0
3 Denny Cook Auburn, IN 8 18-08 0
4 Robert Swem Buchanan, MI 7 17-01 0
5 Jeremiah Acton Shelbyville, MI 9 15-05 0
6 Matt Reagan Allendale, MI 8 15-02 0
7 Jesse Weener Holland, MI 8 14-11 0
8 Rick Sawyer Albion, IN 6 14-02 0
9 Peter Tuls Grand Haven, MI 6 11-15 0
10 Owen Hentschel Traverse City, MI 5 08-12 0
MINNESOTA
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Total $$$
1 Jay Swanson Lakeville, MN 14 38-02 0
2 Dan Welsh Elko New Mrkt, MN 11 29-05 0
3 Justin Schneider New London, MN 6 16-02 0
4 Eric Ritter Albertville, MN 9 16-01 0
5 Brian Bengtson Bloomington, MN 9 15-13 0
6 Kobie Koenig Cohassett, MN 6 12-13 0
7 Daniel Fabiano Maple Grove, MN 6 11-14 0
8 Lance Jensen Saint Francis, MN 5 10-00 0
9 Justin Hill Center City, MN 3 06-15 0
10 Ross Olson Brooten, MN 3 05-00 0
OHIO
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Total $$$
1 BJ Baxter Willshire, OH 15 38-08 0
2 Scott Cremeans Albany, OH 10 18-13 0
3 Kyle Waller Thornville, OH 6 15-06 0
4 Jeremy Tenwalde Fort Jennings, OH 6 15-00 0
5 Mathew Bertram Worthington, OH 5 13-07 0
6 Donald Roberts Bellville, OH 6 13-03 0
7 Kevin Schleeter Fort Jennings, OH 6 12-07 0
8 Allex Conner Delaware, OH 5 11-03 0
9 Ben Stacy Cincinnati, OH 5 09-14 0
10 Danny Ryan Jr Louisville, KY 5 08-03 0
SOUTH DAKOTA
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Total $$$
1 Troy Diede Sioux Falls, SD 15 38-10 0
2 Justin Kohl Hastings, NE 15 36-06 0
3 Monty Fralick Martin, SD 6 15-08 0
4 Brock Belik Orchard, NE 6 12-15 0
5 Shane Stiehl Pierre, SD 5 10-09 0
6 Andy Toft Canton, SD 5 10-00 0
7 Tom Logue Tyndall, SD 3 08-01 0
8 Bryce Hauf Winner, SD 3 06-14 0
9 Bob Slama Harrisburg, SD 3 06-05 0
10 Cliff Van Beek Canistota, SD 0 -1-00 0
WISCONSIN
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Total $$$
1 Josh Wiesner Fon du Lac, WI 15 44-03 0
2 Lonnie Peterson Chippewa Falls, WI 15 37-10 0
3 Casey Hoffman New London, WI 15 33-07 0
4 Troy Kilgas Combined Locks, WI 14 32-07 0
5 Brock Gullixon Lola, WI 14 32-00 0
6 Andrew Behnke Fond Du Lac, WI 10 19-15 0
7 Brian Perzentka Oshkosh, WI 9 18-10 0
8 Justin Rowe New Auburn, WI 6 12-11 0
9 Eugene Sherman Hartland, WI 5 11-02 0
10 Kyle Pohjola Oshkosh, WI 5 08-04 0
NEBRASKA
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Total $$$
1 Jerry Pape Bella Vista, AR 12 23-05 0
2 Robert Hime Odessa, MO 10 19-07 0
3 Mike Obal Jr Springfield, NE 7 14-06 0
4 Jason Citta Hershey, NE 7 13-14 0
5 Tyler Wolf Creston, IA 5 12-09 0
6 Chris Brokman Council Bluffs, IA 4 07-15 0
7 Dave McCoy Plattsmouth, NE 4 07-14 0
8 Jason Boswell Corning, IA 3 07-04 0
9 Thomas Reding Papillion, NE 3 07-03 0
10 Jared Knuth Wahoo, NE 3 06-01 0
NORTH DAKOTA
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Total $$$
1 Tyler Darling Rapid City, SD 12 24-14 0
2 Joe May Luverne, MN 11 21-05 0
3 Grant Farmer Aberdeen, SD 4 10-05 0
4 John Wadsworth Killdeer, ND 4 09-02 0
5 Harry Ladner Jr Estelline, SD 3 07-11 0
6 Tony Reinbold Timber Lake, SD 2 03-13 0
7 Michael Messall Bismarck, ND 2 03-07 0
8 Casey Briggs Highmore, SD 2 03-04 0
9 Justin Welch Sioux Falls, SD 1 01-11 0
10 Aaron Coe Lake Benton, MN 0 -1-00 0
2023 TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Northern Regional 6/28-6/30
Lake Winnebago, Menasha WI.
(NON_BOATER) Standings Day 3
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Tyler Guthmiller Yankton, SD (ND) 8 20-14 0
2. Bryan Schumacher Sparta, WI (WI) 9 19-01 0
3. Dylan Esselman Appleton, WI (WI) 8 16-12 0
4. Miles Lausch Lakeville, MN (MN) 8 15-13 0
5. Carl Bowser Indianapolis, IN (IN) 7 15-07 0
6. Alex Ellerbrock Sugar Grove, IL (IL) 6 15-04 0
7. Chris Rhodes Eaton, IN (IN) 7 15-03 0
8. Will Presley Jr Grove City, OH (OH) 7 14-12 0
9. Cameron Welch Raymore, MO (ND) 6 14-07 0
10. Hunter Frederickson Redford, MI (MI) 7 14-05 0
11. Perry See Rochester, MN (MN) 7 14-01 0
12. Blake Macumber Elkhorn, NE (NE) 6 13-04 0
13. Shon Smith Dubois, IN (IN) 6 12-14 0
14. Alan Bernicky Joliet, IL (IL) 6 12-04 0
15. Dennis Davis Avon, IN (IN) 6 12-03 0
16. Wes Gehrt Bloomington, IL (IL) 5 12-01 0
17. Leray Anderson II Crofton, NE (SD) 4 11-04 0
18. Alfonso Garcia Jr Mccook, NE (NE) 5 11-04 0
19. Braden Fairbanks Grove City, OH (OH) 5 11-02 0
20. AJ Mende Bellevue, NE (NE) 5 11-00 0
21. Cory Lorts Sharpsville, IN (IN) 5 10-08 0
22. Cordell Wadsworth Killdeer, ND (ND) 5 10-07 0
23. Jerry Duncklee Fayette, IA (IA) 5 10-01 0
24. Shawn Van Gerpen Sioux Falls, SD (SD) 5 09-05 0
25. Bryan Freyermuth Muscatine, IA (IA) 4 09-02 0
26. Larry Sallis Herculaneum, MO (NE) 4 08-06 0
27. John Peterson Norfolk, NE (NE) 4 08-05 0
28. Ryan Etringer Wrightstown, WI (WI) 4 08-00 0
29. Charles Capehart Olathe, KS (NE) 4 07-15 0
30. Ted Prisbe Harsens Island, MI (MI 4 07-12 0
31. Dustin Hartzer Mc Cook, NE (NE) 4 07-11 0
32. Kris Lewis Cicero, IN (IN) 4 07-09 0
33. Eddie Gad Braidwood, IL (IL) 4 07-06 0
34. Colten Didion Mount Vernon, OH (OH) 3 07-04 0
35. Lenny Beatty Sandwich, IL (IL) 3 07-03 0
36. Jacob Lange Marion, IA (IA) 3 07-01 0
37. Paul Reinbold Gladstone, ND (ND) 3 07-01 0
38. Wyatt Stout Winona, MN (WI) 4 06-15 0
39. Bobby May Marshall, MN (ND) 3 06-13 0
40. Dalton Krueger Watertown, SD (ND) 3 06-12 0
41. Austin Moore Washburn, IL (IL) 3 06-06 0
42. David Hentschel Traverse City, MI (MI) 3 06-06 0
43. Kristopher Gaertner Morris, IL (IL) 2 06-03 0
44. Ben Rand Kalamazoo, MI (MI) 3 06-03 0
45. Matt Ploof Coon Rapids, MN (MN) 3 06-02 0
46. Adam Schirmer Lakefield, MN (ND) 3 06-02 0
47. Jimmy Wolverton Fridley, MN (MN) 3 06-00 0
48. Kenny Nachtman Bellevue, IA (IA) 3 06-00 0
49. Tim Garner Carol Stream, IL (IL) 3 05-15 0
50. Jody Adkins Navarre, OH (OH) 4 05-15 0
51. Russell Smith IV Green Bay, WI (WI) 3 05-11 0
52. George Cavers Carlos, MN (MN) 3 05-11 0
53. Mark Borchers Akron, IA (NE) 2 05-11 0
54. Coleton Usher Atkins, IA (IA) 3 05-10 0
55. Tanner Albrecht Lonsdale, MN (MN) 3 05-10 0
56. Zackary Ekberg Rapid City, SD (ND) 2 05-10 0
57. Dave Rahrig Delphos, OH (OH) 3 05-09 0
58. Matteo Turano Puryear, TN (IL) 2 05-08 0
59. Patrick Stradal Minneapolis, MN (MN) 3 05-03 0
60. Mark Folsom Waterville, IA (IA) 2 05-02 0
61. Billy Ray Plattsmouth, NE (NE) 2 05-00 0
62. Ryan Schell Baraboo, WI (WI) 3 04-14 0
63. Justin Shepard Lansing, IA (IA) 2 04-11 0
64. Donald Merryfield Des Moines, IA (IA) 2 04-10 0
65. Ryan Kriegel Delphos, OH (OH) 2 04-06 0
66. Rylen Coe Lake Benton, MN (ND) 2 04-01 0
67. Allen Howard Cincinnati, OH (OH) 2 03-15 0
68. Jason Thomas Farmington, MN (MN) 2 03-15 0
69. Ryan Volquardsen Creighton, NE (SD) 2 03-11 0
70. Tim Flaherty Sarasota, FL (WI) 2 03-07 0
71. Joseph Klym West Bloomfield, MI (MI 2 03-01 0
72. Rodney Pieper Yankton, SD (SD) 3 03-00 0
73. Keith Ringger Hudson, IL (IL) 1 02-15 0
74. Dillon Sears Mason City, IA (IA) 2 02-13 0
75. Jordan Brown Broken Arrow, OK (SD) 1 02-12 0
75. James Maynard Marysville, OH (OH) 1 02-12 0
77. Ty Kenyon Dodgeville, WI (IA) 1 02-06 0
78. Logan Stensrud Rogers, MN (MN) 1 02-04 0
79. Todd Seeger Roseville, MN (MN) 1 02-03 0
80. Michael Cook Auburn, IN (MI) 1 02-00 0
80. Elias Smith Jasper, IN (IN) 1 02-00 0
82. Jeff Korb Omaha, NE (SD) 1 01-15 0
83. Nick Schommer Milwaukee, WI (WI) 1 01-14 0
83. Owen Worthington Kenosha, WI (WI) 1 01-14 0
85. Brett Feenstra Jenison, MI (MI) 1 01-13 0
85. Bradley Hostetler Bargersville, IN (IN) 1 01-13 0
87. Rob Campbell III Martinsville, IN (IN) 1 01-12 0
87. Angela Messall Bismarck, ND (ND) 1 01-12 0
87. Brian Wilson Interlochen, MI (MI) 1 01-12 0
90. Paul Huse Omaha, NE (NE) 1 01-11 0
90. Brandon Logue Greenwood, NE (SD) 1 01-11 0
92. Scott Pitlick Pierre, SD (SD) 1 01-10 0
93. Travis Scholz Lizton, IN (IN) 1 01-09 0
94. Craig Cottam Hastings, NE (SD) 1 01-08 0
94. Loran Moore Yankton, SD (SD) 1 01-08 0
96. Al Evans Jr Urbana, OH (OH) 1 00-11 0
97. Paul Andorfer Albion , IN (MI) 0 00-00 0
97. Kaleb Parsell Caro, MI (MI) 0 00-00 0
97. Phillip Rummel Jr Mount Vernon, OH (OH) 0 00-00 0
97. Colin Yohe Chippewa Falls, WI (WI) 0 00-00 0
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 21 128 268-12
2 24 149 316-11
3 5 36 71-06
----------------------------------
50 313 656-13
TEAM STANDINGS Day 3
----------------------------------
State Lbs-Oz
1 WISCONSIN 318-13
2 ILLINOIS 317-04
3 INDIANA 240-04
4 MINNESOTA 228-15
5 MICHIGAN 223-06
6 OHIO 212-06
7 IOWA 202-14
8 NEBRASKA 200-01
9 SOUTH DAKOTA 182-08
10 NORTH DAKOTA 168-07
INDIVIDUAL STANDINGS Day 3
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
IOWA
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Total $$$
1 Jerry Duncklee Fayette, IA 5 10-01 0
2 Bryan Freyermuth Muscatine, IA 4 09-02 0
3 Jacob Lange Marion, IA 3 07-01 0
4 Kenny Nachtman Bellevue, IA 3 06-00 0
5 Coleton Usher Atkins, IA 3 05-10 0
6 Mark Folsom Waterville, IA 2 05-02 0
7 Justin Shepard Lansing, IA 2 04-11 0
8 Donald Merryfield Des Moines, IA 2 04-10 0
9 Dillon Sears Mason City, IA 2 02-13 0
10 Ty Kenyon Dodgeville, WI 1 02-06 0
ILLINOIS
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Total $$$
1 Alex Ellerbrock Sugar Grove, IL 6 15-04 0
2 Alan Bernicky Joliet, IL 6 12-04 0
3 Wes Gehrt Bloomington, IL 5 12-01 0
4 Eddie Gad Braidwood, IL 4 07-06 0
5 Lenny Beatty Sandwich, IL 3 07-03 0
6 Austin Moore Washburn, IL 3 06-06 0
7 Kristopher Gaertner Morris, IL 2 06-03 0
8 Tim Garner Carol Stream, IL 3 05-15 0
9 Matteo Turano Puryear, TN 2 05-08 0
10 Keith Ringger Hudson, IL 1 02-15 0
INDIANA
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Total $$$
1 Carl Bowser Indianapolis, IN 7 15-07 0
2 Chris Rhodes Eaton, IN 7 15-03 0
3 Shon Smith Dubois, IN 6 12-14 0
4 Dennis Davis Avon, IN 6 12-03 0
5 Cory Lorts Sharpsville, IN 5 10-08 0
6 Kris Lewis Cicero, IN 4 07-09 0
7 Elias Smith Jasper, IN 1 02-00 0
8 Bradley Hostetler Bargersville, IN 1 01-13 0
9 Rob Campbell III Martinsville, IN 1 01-12 0
10 Travis Scholz Lizton, IN 1 01-09 0
MICHIGAN
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Total $$$
1 Hunter Frederickson Redford, MI 7 14-05 0
2 Ted Prisbe Harsens Island, MI 4 07-12 0
3 David Hentschel Traverse City, MI 3 06-06 0
4 Ben Rand Kalamazoo, MI 3 06-03 0
5 Joseph Klym West Bloomfield, MI 2 03-01 0
6 Michael Cook Auburn, IN 1 02-00 0
7 Brett Feenstra Jenison, MI 1 01-13 0
8 Brian Wilson Interlochen, MI 1 01-12 0
9 Paul Andorfer Albion , IN 0 00-00 0
9 Kaleb Parsell Caro, MI 0 00-00 0
MINNESOTA
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Total $$$
1 Miles Lausch Lakeville, MN 8 15-13 0
2 Perry See Rochester, MN 7 14-01 0
3 Matt Ploof Coon Rapids, MN 3 06-02 0
4 Jimmy Wolverton Fridley, MN 3 06-00 0
5 George Cavers Carlos, MN 3 05-11 0
6 Tanner Albrecht Lonsdale, MN 3 05-10 0
7 Patrick Stradal Minneapolis, MN 3 05-03 0
8 Jason Thomas Farmington, MN 2 03-15 0
9 Logan Stensrud Rogers, MN 1 02-04 0
10 Todd Seeger Roseville, MN 1 02-03 0
OHIO
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Total $$$
1 Will Presley Jr Grove City, OH 7 14-12 0
2 Braden Fairbanks Grove City, OH 5 11-02 0
3 Colten Didion Mount Vernon, OH 3 07-04 0
4 Jody Adkins Navarre, OH 4 05-15 0
5 Dave Rahrig Delphos, OH 3 05-09 0
6 Ryan Kriegel Delphos, OH 2 04-06 0
7 Allen Howard Cincinnati, OH 2 03-15 0
8 James Maynard Marysville, OH 1 02-12 0
9 Al Evans Jr Urbana, OH 1 00-11 0
10 Phillip Rummel Jr Mount Vernon, OH 0 00-00 0
SOUTH DAKOTA
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Total $$$
1 Leray Anderson II Crofton, NE 4 11-04 0
2 Shawn Van Gerpen Sioux Falls, SD 5 09-05 0
3 Ryan Volquardsen Creighton, NE 2 03-11 0
4 Rodney Pieper Yankton, SD 3 03-00 0
5 Jordan Brown Broken Arrow, OK 1 02-12 0
6 Jeff Korb Omaha, NE 1 01-15 0
7 Brandon Logue Greenwood, NE 1 01-11 0
8 Scott Pitlick Pierre, SD 1 01-10 0
9 Craig Cottam Hastings, NE 1 01-08 0
9 Loran Moore Yankton, SD 1 01-08 0
WISCONSIN
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Total $$$
1 Bryan Schumacher Sparta, WI 9 19-01 0
2 Dylan Esselman Appleton, WI 8 16-12 0
3 Ryan Etringer Wrightstown, WI 4 08-00 0
4 Wyatt Stout Winona, MN 4 06-15 0
5 Russell Smith IV Green Bay, WI 3 05-11 0
6 Ryan Schell Baraboo, WI 3 04-14 0
7 Tim Flaherty Sarasota, FL 2 03-07 0
8 Nick Schommer Milwaukee, WI 1 01-14 0
8 Owen Worthington Kenosha, WI 1 01-14 0
10 Colin Yohe Chippewa Falls, WI 0 00-00 0
NEBRASKA
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Total $$$
1 Blake Macumber Elkhorn, NE 6 13-04 0
2 Alfonso Garcia Jr Mccook, NE 5 11-04 0
3 AJ Mende Bellevue, NE 5 11-00 0
4 Larry Sallis Herculaneum, MO 4 08-06 0
5 John Peterson Norfolk, NE 4 08-05 0
6 Charles Capehart Olathe, KS 4 07-15 0
7 Dustin Hartzer Mc Cook, NE 4 07-11 0
8 Mark Borchers Akron, IA 2 05-11 0
9 Billy Ray Plattsmouth, NE 2 05-00 0
10 Paul Huse Omaha, NE 1 01-11 0
NORTH DAKOTA
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Total $$$
1 Tyler Guthmiller Yankton, SD 8 20-14 0
2 Cameron Welch Raymore, MO 6 14-07 0
3 Cordell Wadsworth Killdeer, ND 5 10-07 0
4 Paul Reinbold Gladstone, ND 3 07-01 0
5 Bobby May Marshall, MN 3 06-13 0
6 Dalton Krueger Watertown, SD 3 06-12 0
7 Adam Schirmer Lakefield, MN 3 06-02 0
8 Zackary Ekberg Rapid City, SD 2 05-10 0
9 Rylen Coe Lake Benton, MN 2 04-01 0
10 Angela Messall Bismarck, ND 1 01-12 0
Season Five of Major League Fishing’s Bass Pro Tour to Premiere Saturday on Discovery Channel
Fifth Season of Major League Fishing’s Bass Pro Tour Set to Premiere on Discovery Channel with REDCREST 2023 at Lake Norman Presented by Shore Lunch, New Episodes Premiere Every Saturday from 7-9 a.m. ET
BENTON, Ky. (June 30, 2023) – The fifth season of Major League Fishing’s (MLF) Bass Pro Tour is set to premiere tomorrow, July 1, at 7 a.m. ET with a two-hour episode on the Discovery Channel.
The MLF Bass Pro Tour features a field of 80 of the top professional anglers in the world competing across seven regular-season tournaments around the country, fishing for millions of dollars and valuable points to qualify for the annual General Tire Heavy Hitters all-star event and REDCREST 2024, the Bass Pro Tour championship, March 13-17, 2024, on Lay Lake in Birmingham, Alabama.
The first two-hour episode of Major League Fishing premiering Saturday will feature the Knockout Round from REDCREST 2023 Presented by Shore Lunch at North Carolina’s Lake Norman, the Bass Pro Tour Championship. Each week a new episode will premiere on Discovery Channel, through mid-November.
The complete air schedule for the 2023 Bass Pro Tour on the Discovery Channel is:
- July 1 REDCREST 2023 Presented by Shore Lunch on Lake Norman Knockout Round
- July 8 REDCREST 2023 Presented by Shore Lunch on Lake Norman Championship Round
- July 15 B&W Trailer Hitches Stage One at the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes Presented by Grundéns Knockout Round
- July 22 B&W Trailer Hitches Stage One at the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes Presented by Grundéns Championship Round
- July 29 NO EPISODE – DISCOVERY CHANNEL SHARK WEEK
- Aug. 5 General Tire Heavy Hitters Presented by Bass Pro Shops in Monroe, Louisiana, Qualifying Round Group A – Day 1
- Aug. 12 General Tire Heavy Hitters Presented by Bass Pro Shops in Monroe, Louisiana, Qualifying Round Group B – Day 1
- Aug. 19 General Tire Heavy Hitters Presented by Bass Pro Shops in Monroe, Louisiana, Qualifying Round Group A – Day 2
- Aug. 26 General Tire Heavy Hitters Presented by Bass Pro Shops in Monroe, Louisiana, Qualifying Round Group B – Day 2
- Sept. 2 General Tire Heavy Hitters Presented by Bass Pro Shops in Monroe, Louisiana, Knockout Round
- Sept. 9 General Tire Heavy Hitters Presented by Bass Pro Shops in Monroe, Louisiana, Championship Round
- Sept. 16 U.S. Air Force Stage Two at Cherokee & Douglas Lakes Presented by Power-Pole Knockout Round
- Sept. 23 U.S. Air Force Stage Two at Cherokee & Douglas Lakes Presented by Power-Pole Championship Round
- Sept. 30 Fox Rent A Car Stage Three at Lake Murray Presented by Mercury Knockout Round
- Oct. 1 Fox Rent A Car Stage Three at Lake Murray Presented by Mercury Championship Round
- Oct. 7 Toro Stage Four at Lake Guntersville Presented by Bass Cat Boats Knockout Round
- Oct. 14 Toro Stage Four at Lake Guntersville Presented by Bass Cat Boats Championship Round
- Oct. 21 Favorite Fishing Stage Five at Cayuga Lake Presented by ATG by Wrangler Knockout Round
- Oct. 28 Bass Boat Technologies Stage Five at Cayuga Lake Presented by ATG by Wrangler Championship Round
- Nov. 4 General Tire Stage Six at Lake St. Clair Presented by John Deere Utility Vehicles Championship Round
- Nov. 11 Minn Kota Stage Seven at Saginaw Bay Presented by Suzuki Championship Round
The full television schedule can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.
Proud sponsors of the 2023 MLF Bass Pro Tour include: 13 Fishing, Abu Garcia, Ark Fishing, ATG by Wrangler, B&W Trailer Hitches, Bally Bet, Bass Cat Boats, Bass Pro Shops, Berkley, Black Rifle Coffee, Daiwa, Epic Baits, Favorite Fishing, Ferguson, Fox Rent A Car, General Tire, Grundéns, Humminbird, Lowrance, Minn Kota, Mercury, Mossy Oak, Onyx, Power-Pole, Rapala, Star tron, T-H Marine, TORO, Toyota, U.S. Air Force, Yellowstone Bourbon, Yo-Zuri and Zoom Baits.
For complete details and updated information on Major League Fishing and the Bass Pro Tour, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF’s social media outlets at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
Kayak Bass Fishing - Honing In on the Right Kayak
By Danny Blandford
In my research on kayak selection, I had the opportunity to catch up with another Old Town kayak pro, Casey Reed, of Virginia. Casey, like me, had started kayak bass fishing in a sit-in fishing “style” kayak he picked up at big box store. Also like in my experience, it left a lot to be desired. The difference was Casey went to work on improving his setup with a DIY approach and got hooked on kayaks and the sport of kayak bass fishing. With close to a decade of experience under his belt, some of which included tournament directing, I’d landed on a wealth of knowledge for the project.
Personally, I’m not ready to go “all in”…so I got the details on basics, but I took the opportunity to learn about a “professional” rig as well.
I started my questioning with my first hang-up…electric or pedal? I know I don’t want to deal with the paddles all the time, so it has to be one or the other; that much I’m sure of. Casey has the Old Town Autopilot 136, just like the one in my previous interview with Anthony Garcia. Both anglers swear by the benefits of Autopilot, but Casey offered up a great tip.
“You can always start with a pedal drive and then add a bow mount trolling motor in the future…lots of guys go that route and they end up with the best of both worlds.” Now that was something that made sense to me - start out as a peddler and “if” I need to do something different in the future, I’ve got options. Casey went on to add, “Today’s kayaks are strong and durable and there are lots of options for mounting with backing plates, and nut and washer set-ups that make for solid connections should you want to add an electric motor later.”
Apparently adding a bow-mount trolling motor "later" is a thing and a quick internet search and I find all kinds of examples, so that is a win for me. I love to have options and I hadn't given any consideration to that kind of setup. I'm a Minn Kota guy and they have several options that would work well with a little rigging.
We got into electronics and the story was the same. You don’t “need” any, but you can have about anything you want. To make that point, I introduce Casey’s rig.
- Minn Kota Autopilot trolling motor
- 2 Humminbird Helix 10’s
- Humminbird Mega Live & Humminbird Mega 360
- 2 Power Pole Micros
- 135 amp/hr lithium trolling motor battery
- (4) 23 amp/hr lithium for electronics
- Minn Kota 2 bank charger
- Oh…and a backup paddle!
Talk about loaded up…wow. Casey and I crunched some quick numbers and we came up with a tournament load of about 300 “ish” pounds including him and his gear. The boat is rated for up to a “usable weight” of 502 lbs, so he could still carry more. He pointed out that with scupper plugs and one-way valves, he stays dry and comfortable all day, and has no problem fishing sitting or standing, which is a huge must for me. Being able to stand up and pitch and flip to shoreline cover has been one of the biggest motivators in this search and the
With a rig like that, a trailer is a must for Casey, he was quick to add, “After a 12-hour day on the water, the last thing I want to do is wrestle my kayak. I load it onto my trailer and pull it with a Honda Passport. Fishing three national trails, I cover some miles at this point in my career, but it didn’t start that way. As a matter of fact, when I first got into kayak fishing, a Toyota Camry was my official tow vehicle.”
Personally, for me, I’m thinking most of my fishing will be done within miles of the house and probably won’t be twelve-hour trips, so I’m most likely to wrestle, not trailer. I think the truck bed will be a fine first hauler for the time being.
As far as the kayak, I’m definitely honing in on the right choice. I think a 12-footer would fit my needs and I want to peddle, not paddle, and I want to be able to go electric at some point. The Old Town 120 series is where I need to be and there are a few models to think through, but a couple of interviews have led me to a can’t lose decision. I have to give a big shout-out to the Old Town Team for helping me navigate the process!
With a little luck, I’ll have some kayak fish pics as a follow-up soon!
Kokopelli To Launch New Fishing-Specific Inflatable Kayak At ICAST
Packraft innovator to unveil multiple new boats for 2024.
June 30, 2023 (Denver, Colo.) — Kokopelli has been creating the most lightweight and packable packrafts, inflatable kayaks and stand-up paddleboards since 2012. This season, the brand is unveiling an entirely new boat for 2024 designed with the angler in mind, the Kaster. Be the first to see this innovative, inflatable kayak in person at ICAST along with an array of new boats and products.
“We are excited to unveil the Kokopelli Kaster at ICAST next month,” said Jeff Popp, GM and Director of Product at Kokopelli. “Our customers have been using our packrafts for fishing since our inception. With that said, we wanted to bring the brand’s unique and trusted approach to lightweight, packable and portable characteristics to the angling world with a fishing-specific platform. The result is the ultimate inflatable boat for your next fishing adventure.”
New For 2024:
• The Kokopelli Kaster is the newest product for 2024. The Kaster is designed utilizing the brands Platte-Plus inflatable kayak platform but enhanced to make it fishing-specific. It’s built like a tank with tons of features yet still weighs less than 30lbs. The Kaster features 5 Universal Scotty Mounts for rod holders and other accessories, 2000 denier PVC reinforced nylon in high abrasion areas and a high-pressure drops-stitch floor for rigidity and enhanced tracking . The boat has been widened to increase stability and will come standard with a 6-inch seat riser for improved sight lines and comfort while paddling. Like all of Kokopelli’s inflatable kayaks, the Kaster will come with everything needed to get on the water from boat, to pump, to paddles and carry bag.
• The XPD, one of Kokopelli’s best-selling boats, gets a significant upgrade for the 2024 season. The new XPD will drop nearly 4lbs of weight while maintaining the same trusted durability and maneuverability customers have come to expect from the boat. With this weight reduction comes an even smaller pack size yet a roomier cockpit. The 2024 XPD will be available in two colors, Sage Green and Granite Sand, and come standard with everything you need to get on the water, including a drybag backpack for storage and carrying, 4-piece breakdown paddle, pump, removable tracking fin and inflatable seat.
• The Utility Deck is a new product that will be launching in 2024 and intended to help the paddling world make better use of time on the water. It’s a multi-use, drop-stitch construction pad that can easily attach to the bow of boats via four attachment straps. The Utility Deck features one side of molded EVA foam for traction for a fur friend, and the other side features multi-use FidLock® and Scotty Mounts for a variety of uses.
Additionally, Kokopelli will also be exhibiting an array of other crafts for getting on the water. They include:
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Chasm-Lite: The lightest and most packable full-size paddleboard on the market at just 12.9 lbs. Launched with the brands most successful Kickstarter to date and is now a mainstay in the brands lineup. The Chasm-Lite easily fits beneath a standard aircraft seat and comes with everything needed to get you on the water, including a carbon fiber shaft paddle.
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Twain-Lite: New for 2023 and recently launched, the Twain-Lite is a “1.5 person” packraft aimed at packrafters who need a bit more room for gear, kids or fur friends. An extended water line and optional tracking fin enhance the Twain-Lite’s capabilities for long days on the lake, and it’s only 8.7lb. weight means it packs down to a surprisingly small size.
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Rogue-Lite: The quintessential packraft and what essentially “started it all.” The Rogue-Lite comes in a variety of iterations and serves beginner to advanced paddlers alike. All Rogue models are built with a TPU construction. Optional variations of the models include one with a removable spray deck, and the Rogue-Lite X made of Kevlar reinforced TPU. The base Rogue-Lite weighs just 6 lbs.
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Nirvana and Recon — The current whitewater options from Kokopelli are based on the same engineering architecture, yet constructed with two different materials that serve whitewater enthusiasts. The Recon, the burlier of the two, is made from 1000d PVC construction. The Nirvana is constructed from a TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) material and is a lighter and more packable whitewater option. Both boats are available in spray deck and self-bailing models.
Kokopelli will be at the On The Water Product Demo Day event (Tuesday, July 11 from 10 am to 2 pm), where you can take one of the above craft out on the pond. In the convention center, you can find the Kokopelli at Booth 4360.
For more information on Kokopelli, visit https://kokopelli.com/
Smallmouth 'Snackables'
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Berkley “Culls” PowerBait CullShad Swimbait, Offering Consumers Free Replacement Bait
To ensure quality and customer satisfaction, Berkley rewards anglers with replacement baits at no cost
COLUMBIA, S.C. (June 30, 2023) – In Spring 2023, Berkley Fishing introduced the CullShad to a great deal of fanfare and success among top-tier tournament anglers. After releasing the first batch of product to retailers, the quality assurance team at the company identified that this run of product did not live up to the company’s high standards and the Berkley promise to help anglers catch more fish. The issues include inconsistencies in the bait’s hardness and some deformities, both of which have negatively compromised the bait’s action which does not allow it to work as designed.
Berkley’s commitment remains to provide anglers with scientifically-backed baits that surpass expectations, so the company is enacting a plan to get a new batch of properly manufactured baits in the hands of anglers as quickly as possible.
To accomplish this, anyone who has purchased a CullShad is being asked to help the company “cull” them. Berkley will replace any purchased CullShad at no cost with one that performs as it should. There is no need to return anything but rather follow these simple and straightforward instructions to receive a replacement CullShad in the same color and size that meets the high standards established in the design process:
1) Take a picture of your CullShad(s) on or next to a piece of paper detailing your name and the date you’re submitting the photo.
2) Visit www.berkley-fishing.com/cullshad-replacement or use the QR code below to initiate the replacement process and upload your photo.
3) Fill in the required information and click submit. You should receive a confirmation email from Berkley.
4) All replacement requests must be received by July 31, 2023.
5) Replacement CullShad(s) will be shipped by the end of August.
The team at Berkley has identified the cause of the issues and are already in production of the next round of baits that meet our stringent standards. By the end of August, the new round of baits will be sent to consumers to replace the previously released baits and we will resume shipping to retailers.
"We take great pride in the Berkley CullShad and firmly support its innovative design, which provides consumers with a fresh perspective on swimbaits," said Berkley’s Senior Vice President of Marketing, Jon Schlosser. "We have a responsibility to anglers nationwide to guarantee that each product performs according to its intended design. Therefore, we are proactively taking steps to address the concerns related to the CullShad by implementing a replacement program for affected customers, aiming to ensure their utmost satisfaction in light of the inconsistencies found within the first batch of baits."
Our commitment to our customers and anglers is to continue to develop and introduce the world’s best baits. We appreciate your help ensuring that only the best CullShads survive.
McKinney Maximizes Dollar with Contingencies
Courtesy of Luke Stoner - Dynamic Sponsorships
Opens EQ pro Trevor McKinney added an extra $1,500 to his pockets from Toyota Bonus Bucks thanks to his 5th place finish in the St. Croix Bassmaster Open on Lake Eufaula. This marks the third time McKinney has earned added money in 2023 Opens competition from Toyota’s popular contingency program.
“I’m trying to pay for my truck with Bonus Bucks,” McKinney said with a smile. “In the last two years alone, I’ve made $8,500 from the program. You really can’t beat that. Toyota supports the industry, supports the anglers, and they make a heck of a tow vehicle… if you fish competitively, why wouldn’t you drive one and try to win free money?”
His rewards from Eufaula where he finished 5th, and Wheeler Lake where he ended up in 13th, highlight the fact that you don’t have to win a tournament to earn Bonus Bucks, you just have the be the highest finishing angler driving a 2019 or newer Toyota tow vehicle.
McKinney’s currently driving a 2020 Tundra, a truck he bought after spending a year as the Bassmaster College Series Bracket Champion in 2021. For winning the College Classic Bracket, the McKendree University graduate won a spot in the 2021 Bassmaster Classic on Ray Roberts as well as full use of a Toyota Tundra, Nitro Boat, and paid entry fees to all nine Bassmaster Opens.
After putting 30,000+ miles on the truck in 2021, the always respectful McKinney started toying with the idea of buying his program vehicle. It was the biggest purchase of his young life at that time, but McKinney was able to make it work and never looked back.
“Buying that truck was honestly one of the best decisions I’ve made in my career,” McKinney said. “I never could afford a newer truck in high school or college, even though I traveled to fish a lot, but after driving this Tundra during my year as the College Champion I felt spoiled. I loved it and knew I couldn’t go back to a beater tow-vehicle. I needed a reliable truck if I was going to fish the Opens, and I wanted to keep driving a Toyota. It’s been a blessing.”
The former college fishing standout hails from Illinois but has an impressive track record in Oklahoma. He’s won a pair of college tournaments in the Sooner state, one on Grand Lake and another on Lake Hudson, and while he had never fished Lake Eufaula before, McKinney was excited when he saw this event on the schedule.
McKinney employed a dropshot and forward-facing-sonar to catch his fish in six to fifteen feet of water on Lake Eufaula to notch his first top ten of the 2023 season. Along with Bonus Bucks, McKinney cashed in on an additional $1,000 from Costa’s Compete + Conserve program for being the highest finishing angler wearing Costa Sunglasses.
McKinney may only be twenty-five years young, but he’s learned that supporting companies with impactful contingency programs helps his dollar go a little farther while competing on the Bassmaster Opens Trail. To get registered (for free!) or for more information regarding Toyota’s or Costa’s contingency programs, follow these links:
Toyota Bonus Bucks - https://www.toyotatrucksbonusbucks.com/overview
Costa Compete + Conserve - https://www.costacompeteandconserve.com/
Anglers Channel Bass Wrap Up Show, Brought to you by Sportsman’s Warehouse, adds the Pursuit Channel
Columbia, SC (June 30, 2023) - The Anglers Channel Bass Wrap Up show, brought to you by Sportsman's Warehouse, continues to grow its distribution with the addition of the Pursuit Channel, starting January 2024. The 14th season of the show will still debut on Discovery with Saturday airings in the fall of 2023 for the fifth consecutive year. The program will then move to Pursuit for multiple airings per week, throughout the first quarter and beyond. The Anglers Channel Bass Wrap Up show is an informative recap of professional, amateur, and grassroots-level bass fishing tournaments across the country. Bringing tournament trails of all sizes to the spotlight, by capturing the anglers who fish and finish well in these events. The program also mixes in informative segments on new techniques, new products, and share useful information to help the weekend angler learn about all things fishing.
Since 2008 Pursuit has been delivering extensive high-quality outdoor content to millions of viewers unserved by any other full-time outdoor network. The unique basic tier package delivery with the major satellite distributors, plus major recent additions in the cable sector, provides access to an audience that is ripe with outdoorsmen and women for its content partners. In addition to joining the network, The Anglers Channel Bass Wrap Up show will also be featured on Pursuit’s digital platforms. Look for The Anglers Channel Bass Wrap Up program beginning in 2nd quarter 2024 on the Pursuit UP streaming channel available to over 90 million users, or available 24/7 on Pursuit UP’s VOD/App platforms.
According to Danny Blandford, AC Director of Business Development, “Moving our program to Pursuit in the first quarter of 2024 will be another milestone in the growth of our Anglers Channel platform. The weekend premiers with Discovery deliver a vast reach and the additional airings with Pursuit will help us reach up to 30 million additional households. It will be great to see our program and partners featured alongside so many popular outdoor television programs during the peak fishing television season on Pursuit. We look forward to showing our program to viewers who may not have seen us on the Discovery Network in years past.”
The 2023/24 season of the AnglersChannel Bass Wrap Up Show, Presented by Sportsman’s Warehouse, will kick off again this fall with highlights from the Bassmaster Classic, the Inaugural Minn Kota/Humminbird Owners Tournament, as well regional events, fishing tips, and much more. If you want to catch the action as it unfolds this summer, visit www.AnglersChannel.com, and be sure to follow along on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.
About AnglersChannel.com
AnglersChannel.com multimedia platform combines the web, social media platforms, podcasts, on-site event coverage and The Anglers Channel Bass Wrap Up Show on Discovery and Pursuit to bring you the No. 1 resource in tournament bass fishing. Anglers Channel features the web’s most robust tournament database, used by thousands of anglers daily, including schedules, results and searchable details by body of water. Anglers Channel also delivers industry news as it happens, along with coverage of all tournament bass fishing, from BASS and Major League Fishing to the weekend warriors. Visit Anglers Channel via the web, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok.
About Pursuit
Pursuit Media, LLC, the industry leader in total home and user delivery, has its linear feed Pursuit Channel, active nationally to 30+ million homes via DIRECTV, AT&T U-verse HD, DISH Network, Sling TV HD, Comcast Xfinity, Fios by Verizon HD, Centurylink Prism HD, Cox Communication HD and the National Cable Television Cooperative (NCTC). PursuitUP, is active to 90+ million users through Samsung’s TV Plus, Sinclair’s STIRR, Xumo, Glewed TV, Vidgo, Kloud TV, Select TV, TCL Smart TVs, Plex, and many more. Additionally, PursuitUP’s VOD library is readily available online to anyone at pursuituptv.com, or by downloading the PursuitUP app available on most devices.
For more information contact Danny Blandford at [email protected]
Alabama’s Jordan Lee Earns Third Career MLF Bass Pro Tour Win at General Tire Stage Six at Lake St. Clair
Berkley Pro Goes Wire-to-Wire Catching a Five-Bass-Limit Weighing 23-4 on Final Day to Earn Third Bass Pro Tour Win and Top Award of $100,000
HARRISON TOWNSHIP, Mich. (June 29, 2023) – Championship Thursday on Lake St. Clair started off with a bang, with Berkley pro Jordan Lee of Cullman, Alabama , taking advantage of the early morning bite to put together a five-bass limit weighing 23 pounds, 4 ounces to earn his third Bass Pro Tour win and the top award of $100,000 at the Major League Fishing (MLF) Bass Pro Tour General Tire Stage Six at Lake St. Clair Presented by John Deere Utility Vehicles . Lee’s two-day Knockout and Championship Round total of 10 bass weighing 47-13 earned him the win by a 1-pound, 3-ounce margin over second-place finisher Alton Jones Jr. of Waco, Texas, who weighed in 23 pounds, 8 ounces Thursday to finish the event with a two-day total of 46-10, his second runner-up finish this season.
The Alabama pro whipped up his 23-4 limit on Championship Thursday within the first two hours of competition yet was able to maintain the top position throughout the day despite never upgrading his fish in the second or third period.
“Before I came up here, I knew I wanted to fish on the Canadian side of Lake St. Clair, primarily around the Bell River Hump area,” said Lee. “Tournaments have been won over there, historically, so I felt like it was worth the risk to commit to that for the week, despite not being able to practice over there.
“I bounced around a bit during the first part of the event, but not so much the last two days,” Lee continued. “In practice I was looking for grass clumps and grass lines, but once I started actually fishing, that didn’t seem to be the deal.
“My main area just had a smooth bottom, and the fish were just hanging out there. There wasn’t anything on the map that pointed out fish might be there, but I spent some time scoping around with my Lowrance ActiveTarget and started seeing some fish that clued me in. It just happened to be the winning area.
“I found a couple places that didn’t pay off and others where I didn’t catch anything, but my first fish of the tournament was almost 6 pounds, and that just started me off on the right path,” Lee continued. “I pulled up to my main spot this morning, and the fish weren’t in the area where I had been catching them. They’re notorious for moving out here, so I was a bit worried, but they’d only moved about 200 yards away. Once I found them it was game on. I caught a couple over five pounds early on and those two fish were really the difference makers.”
Lee’s limit of 23-4 included a pair of 5-pounders weighing 5-4 and 5-10.
“Those big bites were definitely key throughout this entire week,” said Lee. “I was getting a couple of them per day, and they were all in different places, so it was just meant to be.”
Lee caught most of his fish throwing a 5-inch Berkley PowerBait MaxScent Flatnose Jerk Shad on a drop-shot rig.
“I did well here during a tournament in 2017, throwing a big, fluke-style bait, so I always think about that when I come here,” said Lee. “That 5-inch Berkley Jerk Shad is a little bit bigger than a flatworm or other typical smallmouth baits; but smallmouth on Lake St. Clair eat big stuff, and I saw the giant perch they were spitting up all week, so I knew I wouldn’t scare them off with a bigger bait.”
This victory marks Lee’s first Bass Pro Tour win since 2020, when he went on a season flurry to win Stage One, the Heavy Hitters all-star event and the 2020 Bass Pro Tour Angler of the Year (AOY) title.
“St. Clair is an awesome fishery, and I was looking forward to fishing it, but I never would have dreamed I’d win this event coming into it,” finished an emotional Lee. “You always hope for the win, every tournament, but I sure wasn’t expecting it. God has really blessed me and my family and this has just been a really special week.”
The top 10 pros from the General Tire Stage Six on Lake St. Clair Presented by John Deere Utility Vehicles finished:
2nd: Alton Jones Jr., Waco, Texas, 10 bass, 46-10, $45,000
3rd: Jacob Wheeler, Harrison, Tenn., 10 bass, 43-12, $38,000
4th: Jesse Wiggins, Addison, Ala., 10 bass, 43-4, $32,000
5th: Terry Scroggins, San Mateo, Fla., 10 bass, 42-14, $30,000
6th: Mark Daniels Jr., Tuskegee, Ala., 10 bass, 42-8, $26,000
7th: Mark Rose, Wynne, Ark., 10 bass, 42-2, $23,000
8th: Gary Klein, Mingus, Texas, 10 bass, 41-1, $21,000
9th: John Hunter, Shelbyville, Ky., 10 bass, 39-9, $19,000
10th: Josh Bertrand, Queen Creek, Ariz., 10 bass, 37-11, $16,000
The General Tire Stage Six at Lake St. Clair Presented by John Deere Utility Vehicles features anglers competing using the MLF catch, weigh, immediate-release format, with each angler’s five (5) heaviest bass per day tallied as their day’s weight. Anglers strive to catch their heaviest five fish each day, while also feeling the pressure and intensity of the live scoring SCORETRACKER® leaderboard. Minimum weights are determined individually for each competition waters that the Bass Pro Tour visits, based on the productivity, bass population and anticipated average size of fish in each fishery.
The six-day event, hosted by the Detroit Sports Commission, Macomb County and Lake St. Clair Metroparks, showcases 80 of the top professional anglers in the world, competing for a purse of more than $805,000, including a top payout of $100,000 and valuable Angler of the Year (AOY) points in hopes of qualifying for the General Tire Heavy Hitters All-Star event and REDCREST 2024, the Bass Pro Tour championship.
Television coverage of the General Tire Stage Six at Lake St. Clair Presented by John Deere Utility Vehicles Championship Round will air as a two-hour episode starting at 7 a.m. ET, on Saturday, November 4 on the Discovery Channel. New MLF episodes premiere each Saturday morning on Discovery, with re-airings on the Outdoor Channel.
The 2023 MLF Bass Pro Tour features a field of 80 of the top professional anglers in the world competing across seven regular-season tournaments around the country, fishing for millions of dollars and valuable points to qualify for the annual General Tire Heavy Hitters all-star event and REDCREST 2024, the Bass Pro Tour championship, held March 13-17, 2024, on Lay Lake in Birmingham, Alabama.
Proud sponsors of the 2023 MLF Bass Pro Tour include: 13 Fishing, Abu Garcia, Ark Fishing, ATG by Wrangler, B&W Trailer Hitches, Bally Bet, Bass Cat Boats, Bass Pro Shops, Berkley, Black Rifle Coffee, Daiwa, Epic Baits, Favorite Fishing, Ferguson, Fox Rent A Car, General Tire, Grundéns, Humminbird, Lowrance, Minn Kota, Mercury, Mossy Oak, Onyx, Power-Pole, Rapala, Star tron, T-H Marine, TORO, Toyota, U.S. Air Force, Yellowstone Bourbon, Yo-Zuri and Zoom Baits.
For complete details and updated information on Major League Fishing and the Bass Pro Tour, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF’s social media outlets at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
Summer showdown on tap for Bassmaster Kayak tournament at La Crosse
The Yamaha Rightwaters Bassmaster Kayak Series powered by TourneyX will be held July 8-9 on the Mississippi River.
Photo by Kara Wattunen/B.A.S.S.
June 29, 2023
LA CROSSE, Wis. — For the second time in three seasons, the Yamaha Rightwaters Bassmaster Kayak Series powered by TourneyX heads north to fish the Upper Mississippi River, and Bassmaster Kayak Series angler Benjamin Wagner of Calmar, Iowa, believes there will be plenty of options for anglers to capitalize on both smallmouth and largemouth.
Competition days are scheduled for July 8-9 on Pools 7, 8 and 9 of the Mississippi River. The live leaderboard can be found on Bassmaster.comthroughout the tournament, with the awards ceremony streaming live on the Bassmaster YouTube channel July 9 at 4 p.m. CT.
This section of river has witnessed several exciting moments in Bassmaster history. Just last year, Bryan Schmitt won an Elite Series event with 63 pounds, 4 ounces.
In the first Bassmaster Kayak Series event on the river in 2021, an event held in September, Jim Davis won the one-day tournament with 85.5 inches.
So far this year, the Upper Mississippi River has experienced rainy and stormy weather. At the beginning of May, the water was 7 feet over normal. Wagner anticipates the water should be back close to normal by the time anglers arrive for practice barring another significant rain event.
“With it starting high this spring, I’m not exactly sure how it will play or if it will get down to normal,” Wagner said. “Last year was the first full year we’ve had a normal year on these pools for about eight years. Most other years the water is higher than what they consider normal. Last year, everyone kept commenting on how low the water was, but it was right at normal.”
The three pools of the Upper Mississippi River in play for this event feature an abundance of shallow grass, milfoil, eelgrass and duckweed for the most part, as well as hard cover like riprap, laydowns and wing dams.
Both smallmouth and largemouth call the river home, and Wagner believes anglers who target either species will have a chance at the victory. Largemouth tend to weigh more than smallmouth, but smallmouth tend to be long and skinny, which helps in a tournament judged by total inches of bass.
Both species will be in their summer patterns.
“The one cool thing about the Mississippi River is (that) last year during a tournament one guy was drop shotting in 15 feet of water for smallmouth and another guy was catching largemouth in 2 feet of water on a Carolina rig. They can be about anywhere, and any technique can play,” Wagner said.
The smallmouth will mostly stick to the main-river areas around hard cover like wing dams and rock. Crankbaits, drop shots, topwaters and jigs tend to be the best-producing baits.
“Below the dams you will have current, and other places on the main channel you will have plenty of current, deep water and breaks,” he said.
The largemouth, meanwhile, will gravitate to the grass, and anglers will be able to catch them on a frog, swim jig, ChatterBait or flipping bait.
“I wouldn’t rule anything out,” Wagner said.
With 727 points after three regular-season events, Nick Dyer is leading the Dakota Lithium Bassmaster Kayak Series Angler of the Year standings by just nine points over 2022 Bassmaster Kayak Series national champion Eric Siddiqi. Joshua Diehl, who took home a kayak series trophy in 2021, sits third in the standings with 697 points.
Lock Down Your Soft Plastics
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Throwback Thursday - Quest for the World Record
By Terry Battisti - Bass Fishing Archives
The bass fishing world was rocked on June 23, 1973, when southern California resident Dave Zimmerlee caught the first fish weighing more than 20 pounds since George Perry set the record 42 years earlier at Montgomery Lake, Ga.
Tiny 183-acre Lake Miramar yielded the then-California record. Weighing in at 20-15, the fish dwarfed the existing record of 17-14 caught by James Bates of out of Lake Murray one year earlier.
In 1959, the California Department of Fish and Game joined forces with the Florida Fish and Wildlife to transport and release 20,000 Florida bass fingerlings into San Diego’s Upper Otay reservoir. Upper Otay would act as the brood pond for the Floridas which would then be transplanted into area lakes. The Floridas were chosen because they exhibited a growth rate almost twice as fast as their northern brethren and City Parks officials wanted a fish that would offer a sustainable population for its patrons.
Little did they know what would happen in the near future.
By 1965, the 12-year-old state record of 10-03 had been broken with a 10-10 Florida. The record was again broken in ’66 with a 13-00, in ’68 with a 13-07, in ’69 with a 15-04 and again in 71 with a 16-11. San Diego was on the map as being a likely place for the world record to be broken.
The 1971 record fish, caught by Randall Danio, has some interesting information regarding the catch. He was reportedly fishing for trout at Lake Miramar with a spinner when the big fish ate.
Then, in July of 1972, James Bates caught the next state record, as mentioned above. This fish was the first of the last three state records actually caught by a bass fisherman – the others being caught by trout anglers. He caught his fish on a Grape Mann’s Jelly worm.
California State biologist Larry Bottroff, who was instrumental in the planting of the Florida bass in California’s waters, shed some light on the explosion of trophy largemouth in the state in the Sept/Oct 1972 issue of Bass Master Magazine. Here is an excerpt from that interview with writer Chuck Garrison.
“I believe there are bass of 18 and 19 pounds in some of these waters now! I also believe bass of this size will be taken by 1975. Possibly sooner. The largest I have observed weighed 17-03 and was only 10 years old. The condition of some 12-year-old Floridas I have observed is good. It appears as though they will live four or five more years. If they do and remain in good condition, 20 pound plus bass might become a reality! Time will tell.”
Then came June, 1973.
Dave Zimmerlee had never fished Miramar before that fateful day. He had just relocated to San Diego from Missouri after being in school and the military for eight years. While in Missouri, he had become a bass angler having taken a 12-04 out of Bull Shoals reservoir. Little did he know his next trophy would cause such a stir.
Zimmerlee reported that he hadn’t had any luck fishing the shore in the morning and around noon decided to go rent a boat from the concession. Here are his words from an interview that was printed in the Sept/Oct 1973 issue of Bass Master Magazine, as written by Chuck Garrison.
“… I went up and got a boat and went and fished about three different spots. I got a few little bass but threw them back. Then I started to move up to another spot with the boat and I saw this big fish swimming in the water.”
He dropped the anchor and threw a live nightcrawler at the fish – and it ate it.
The rest is history.
Larry Bottroff was again interviewed for an article published in the 1974 Bass Master Fishing Annual, this time by writer Myron R. Fischer, called Quest for a SUPER BASS. This time Bottroff was again asked why he thought the San Diego lakes produced such giant fish. In Fischer’s words, here was the answer:
“An interesting sidelight, is the fact that fertility of both [Lake] Miramar and [Lake] Murray is low. Bass have attained their size and condition, due to their feeding on trout.”
An interesting fact considering Bottroff, only a year earlier, stated in an interview with Garrison the main diet of the San Diego Floridas was threadfin shad.
Since this time California has produced nine documented largemouths over the 20-pound mark. One of those fish, nicknamed Dotty, was caught at least 5 times by anglers including Jed Dickerson and Mac Weakley – of which three of those catches the fish weighed over 20 pounds. The last time, of course, Dotty weighed an astonishing 25-01 but was released because she was unintentionally snagged.
Although biologists and anglers predicted the world record bass would come from some San Diego lake in the 70s, it didn’t happen. Throughout the 80s and 90s the prediction was still being made. Many anglers got close but it wasn’t until 2009 the record would again be challenged and this time broken.
The fish didn’t get caught in one of the “usual” lakes guessed by experts, either. The record was broken 77 years to the day later by Japanese big-fish hunter Manabu Kurita from Lake Biwa, Japan. So much for the odds.
Alabama’s Jordan Lee Leads Top Ten to Championship Round at MLF General Tire Stage Six
Cullman Pro Catches Five-Bass-Limit Weighing 24-9 to Lead Knockout Round on Lake St. Clair, Final 10 Anglers Set for Championship Thursday in the Competition for $100,000
HARRISON TOWNSHIP, Mich. (June 28, 2023) – Berkley pro Jordan Lee of Cullman, Alabama caught 23 scorable bass Wednesday – his best five weighing 24 pounds, 9 ounces – to lead the Knockout Round and advance with the final 10 anglers to the final day of competition at the Major League Fishing (MLF) Bass Pro Tour General Tire Stage Six at Lake St. Clair Presented by John Deere Utility Vehicles.
Lee quickly rose to the top of the leaderboard early in Period 1 and never looked back. His five-fish limit weighing 24-9 gives him a 1-pound, 7-ounce cushion over pro Alton Jones Jr. of Waco, Texas,who ended the day with a five-bass-limit weighing 23-2, good for second place. General Tire pro Mark Rose of Wynne, Arkansas, sits in third place with a limit weighing 22-14, while Texas pro Gary Klein finished the day in fourth with 22-11. Reigning Bally Bet Angler of the Year (AOY) Jacob Wheeler of Harrison, Tennessee, weighed in five bass totaling 22 pounds, 2 ounces to round out the top five.
Wednesday’s Knockout Round was the closest Knockout Round finish in the history of the Bass Pro Tour, featuring six moves in and out of the top 10 in the final hour and ending with a three-way tie on either side of the Toro Cutline, in ninth, tenth and eleventh place. The tiebreaker is decided by each angler’s heaviest bass of the day.
Berkley pro Josh Bertrand of Queen Creek, Arizona made the biggest move on the leaderboard in the final minutes of Period 3, catching a clutch 5-11 smallmouth that moved him from 19th place into the top 10, to finish the day in seventh. Five-pound smallies were key in the Knockout Round, with nine of the top 10 pros finishing the day with at least one 5-pound kicker in their five-fish limit.
The final 10 anglers are now set, and competition resumes Thursday morning with the Championship Round. In the Championship Round, weight carries over from the Knockout Round and the angler with the heaviest two-day total will win the top prize of $100,000.
Lee has been atop the leaderboard every day he’s competed in the event thus far, and it seems he is on the hunt for his first Bass Pro Tour win since 2020.
“We put ourselves in good position today, we just need a big bag tomorrow,” said Lee. “I stopped where I thought the bass were going to be first thing this morning, and they were stacked up. I was throwing a drop-shot rig with a 5-inch Berkley PowerBait MaxScent Flatnose Jerk Shad at a depth of 17 feet. I’ve noticed the fish have been spitting up big perch all day long, so that’s what I’m trying to mimic with this bait, and it’s worked really well.”
Lee said he is targeting smallmouth bass and grassy edges in the mid-section of Lake St. Clair, using his Lowrance ActiveTarget.
“I’m just looking for grass edges and fish, then throwing my bait in that direction,” said Lee. “Once it gets to the bottom, they’re eating it up.”
For the third time in three days of competition during this event, Lee captured Berkley Big Bass honors, with a 6-pound, 7-ounce smallmouth – the biggest bass of the event thus far – on a drop-shot rig in the second period.
“I mixed it up a little today by throwing a 3/8-ounce Ned Head with a Berkley PowerBait MaxScent Lil’ General and that’s what I caught the 6-7 on,” Lee said. “That fish was definitely one of the top five best smallmouth I’ve ever caught.”
The brown fish weighing 6-7 earned Lee Wednesday’s $1,000 Berkley Big Bass Award and is the first time in Bass Pro Tour history that an angler has won the award in both days of the Qualifying Round and in the Knockout Round. Berkley awards $1,000 to the angler who weighs the heaviest bass each day, and another $3,000 bonus to the angler who weighs the heaviest bass of the tournament.
“I’m just going to keep trying to find the right fish,” said Lee. “That’s the key on Lake St. Clair, getting around a little better quality, bigger than average fish, and we’ve got to do that one more day.”
The top 10 pros from Wednesday’s Knockout Round that now advance to Thursday’s Championship Round on Lake St. Clair are:
1st: Jordan Lee, Cullman, Ala., five bass, 24-9
2nd: Alton Jones, Jr., Waco, Texas, five bass, 23-2
3rd: Mark Rose, Wynne, Ark., five bass, 22-14
4th: Gary Klein, Mingus, Texas, five bass, 22-11
5th: Jacob Wheeler, Harrison, Tenn., five bass, 22-2
6th: Mark Daniels Jr., Tuskegee, Ala., five bass, 21-14
7th: Josh Bertrand, Queen Creek, Ariz., five bass, 21-10
8th: Jesse Wiggins, Addison, Ala., five bass, 21-8
9th: Terry Scroggins, San Mateo, Fla., five bass, 21-4
10th: John Hunter, Shelbyville, Ky., five bass, 21-4
Finishing in 11th through 40th place are:
11th: Justin Lucas, Guntersville, Ala., five bass, 21-4
12th: Dustin Connell, Clanton, Ala., five bass, 21-3
13th: Scott Suggs, Alexander, Ark., five bass, 21-0
14th: Bryan Thrift, Shelby, N.C., five bass, 20-11
15th: Spencer Shuffield, Hot Springs, Ark., five bass, 20-2
16th: Jonathon VanDam, Kalamazoo, Mich., five bass, 19-13
17th: Matt Becker, Ten Mile, Tenn., five bass, 19-12
18th: Gerald Spohrer, Gonzales, La., five bass, 19-7
19th: Bradley Roy, Lancaster, Ky., five bass, 19-7
20th: Cole Floyd, Leesburg, Ohio, five bass, 19-4
21st: Kevin VanDam, Kalamazoo, Mich., five bass, 18-7
22nd: Greg Vinson, Wetumpka, Ala., five bass, 18-7
23rd: Jeremy Lawyer, Sarcoxie, Mo., five bass, 18-5
24th: Michael Neal, Dayton, Tenn., five bass, 18-2
25th: Mark Davis, Mount Ida, Ark., five bass, 17-13
26th: Jeff Sprague, Wills Point, Texs, five bass, 17-12
27th: Cliff Pace, Petal, Miss., five bass, 17-12
28th: David Dudley, Lynchburg, Va., five bass, 17-9
29th: Dylan Hays, Hot Springs, Ark., five bass, 17-3
30th: Dean Rojas, Lake Havasu City, Ariz., five bass, 17-2
31st: Marty Robinson, Lyman, S.C., five bass, 16-5
32nd: Jacob Wall, New Hope, Ala., five bass, 16-4
33rd: Cody Meyer, Star, Idaho, five bass, 16-3
34th: Ryan Salzman, Huntsville, Ala., five bass, 16-2
35th: Adrian Avena, Vineland, N.J., five bass, 15-8
36th: James Watson, Lampe, Mo., five bass, 15-0
37th: Brent Chapman, Lake Quivira, Kan., five bass, 14-8
38th: Fred Roumbanis, Russellville, Ark., five bass, 14-5
39th: Brett Hite, Phoenix, Ariz., five bass, 14-4
40th: Andy Morgan, Dayton, Tenn., five bass, 11-11
A complete list of results can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.
The six-day event, hosted by the Detroit Sports Commission, Macomb County and Lake St. Clair Metroparks, showcases 80 of the top professional anglers in the world, competing for a purse of more than $805,000, including a top payout of $100,000 and valuable Angler of the Year (AOY) points in hopes of qualifying for the General Tire Heavy Hitters All-Star event and REDCREST 2024, the Bass Pro Tour championship.
The 40 Anglers in Group A competed in their two-day qualifying round on Saturday and Monday – the 40 anglers in Group B on Sunday and Tuesday. The top 20 anglers from each group advanced to Wednesday’s Knockout Round, where weights were zeroed, and the remaining 40 anglers competed to finish in the top 10 and advance to the Championship Round. In Thursday’s Championship Round, weight carries over from the Knockout Round and the angler with the heaviest two-day total wins the top prize of $100,000.
The final 10 anglers will launch Thursday at 7:20 a.m. ET from Lake St. Clair Metropark, located at 31300 Metro Parkway in Harrison Township. The General Tire Takeout will be held at the Metropark, beginning at 4 p.m. Fans are welcome to attend all launch and takeout events and also encouraged to follow the event online throughout the day on the MLFNOW!® live stream and SCORETRACKER® coverage at MajorLeagueFishing.com.
On Championship Thursday, June 29, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., MLF will welcome fans of all ages to celebrate the top 10 and crown the General Tire Stage Six at Lake St. Clair Champion at the Watch Party and Trophy Presentation. The final 10 Championship Round Bass Pro Tour anglers will be on hand at the trophy celebration to meet and greet fans, sign autographs and take selfies. The celebration will take place at the Cabela’s, located at 45959 Towne Center Blvd., in Chesterfield, Michigan.
The General Tire Stage Six at Lake St. Clair Presented by John Deere Utility Vehicles features anglers competing using the MLF catch, weigh, immediate-release format, with each angler’s five (5) heaviest bass per day tallied as their day’s weight. Anglers strive to catch their heaviest five fish each day, while also feeling the pressure and intensity of the live scoring SCORETRACKER® leaderboard. Minimum weights are determined individually for each competition waters that the Bass Pro Tour visits, based on the productivity, bass population and anticipated average size of fish in each fishery.
The 2023 MLF Bass Pro Tour features a field of 80 of the top professional anglers in the world competing across seven regular-season tournaments around the country, fishing for millions of dollars and valuable points to qualify for the annual General Tire Heavy Hitters all-star event and REDCREST 2024, the Bass Pro Tour championship, held March 13-17, 2024, on Lay Lake in Birmingham, Alabama.
The MLFNOW!® broadcast team of Chad McKee, Marty Stone and J.T. Kenney will break down the extended action live on Championship Thursday from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET. MLFNOW!® will be live streamed on MajorLeagueFishing.com and the MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) app.
Television coverage of the General Tire Stage Six at Lake St. Clair Presented by John Deere Utility Vehicles Championship Round will air as a two-hour episode starting at 7 a.m. ET, on Saturday, November 4 on the Discovery Channel. New MLF episodes premiere each Saturday morning on Discovery, with re-airings on the Outdoor Channel.
Proud sponsors of the 2023 MLF Bass Pro Tour include: 13 Fishing, Abu Garcia, Ark Fishing, ATG by Wrangler, B&W Trailer Hitches, Bally Bet, Bass Cat Boats, Bass Pro Shops, Berkley, Black Rifle Coffee, Daiwa, Epic Baits, Favorite Fishing, Ferguson, Fox Rent A Car, General Tire, Grundéns, Humminbird, Lowrance, Minn Kota, Mercury, Mossy Oak, Onyx, Power-Pole, Rapala, Star tron, T-H Marine, TORO, Toyota, U.S. Air Force, Yellowstone Bourbon, Yo-Zuri and Zoom Baits.
For complete details and updated information on Major League Fishing and the Bass Pro Tour, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF’s social media outlets at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube
American Tackle Continues to Redefine Fishing Rod Handles
[Oviedo, Fl, June 28th, 2023] – Today marks the launch of the Tsuka 2, a groundbreaking advancement in fishing rod handles that redefines the angling experience. Designed for discerning anglers and forward-thinking rod designers, the Tsuka 2 pushes the boundaries of carbon handle technology, offering unprecedented possibilities.
Key Features:
- Blow-molded Forged Carbon Fiber construction: Delivering unparalleled durability and performance.
- Molded rubber end cap: Providing added protection for your valuable gear.
- Extreme strength-to-weight ratio: An astonishingly lightweight 1 oz. Single-piece construction without sacrificing toughness.
- Ergonomic trigger handle: Ensuring enhanced comfort and control during extended fishing sessions.
- CCT (Compressed Carbon Technology) hood: Incorporating state-of-the-art technology for unmatched reliability.
- Forged Carbon fiber foregrip with aluminum trim: Combining a sleek, functional, and stylish design to elevate your angling experience.
The Tsuka 2 promises to revolutionize the world of fishing rod handles by merging innovation with practicality, paving the way for the future of fishing.
About American Tackle: American Tackle is a leading innovator in the fishing industry, dedicated to designing and manufacturing high-quality, state-of-the-art fishing gear for enthusiasts and professionals alike. With a focus on exceptional performance and user-friendly designs, American Tackle continues to set new standards in the world of fishing.
Fin-Nor Eyewear Adds Rx Program to 25 Sunglass Models
Fin-Nor joins the prescription market with their angler-built eyewear technology
Columbia, SC (June 28, 2023) - Fin-Nor, leader of angler innovation and technology, is thrilled to announce the new Rx program for their high-end performance sunglasses, purpose-built for anglers and the outdoor lifestyle. This marks the first step into the prescription eyewear market since launching their sunglasses in February 2022.
Fin-Nor performance sunglasses are engineered to withstand the elements and barriers faced on the water daily. Now anglers needing corrective vision can take advantage of this premium eyewear technology through the new Fin-Nor Rx program that will support progressive or single vision prescriptions, with options in the polycarbonate lenses for all 25 models with 193 total style/frame color/lens options to choose from. Prescription lenses will feature the breakthrough Lateral Line™ technology, the most innovative lens technology for people who spend time on the water. This lens technology enhances your vision through distortion-free color, unmatched sharpness, and premium polarization.
Fin-Nor prescription sunglasses use the most advanced digital surfacing technology, lending a more accurate prescription while adding clarity to your vision. The proprietary Lateral Line™ lens technology offers a balanced approach to color enhancement that intensifies primary colors without color distortion. It creates a more natural and realistic experience that limits eye fatigue and makes it easier for the brain to quickly identify and process the view on and beneath the water's surface. Fin-Nor lenses cut through glare, eliminating confusing light and optimizing visibility in aquatic environments; they also reduce blue light transmittance, allowing your vision to cut through mist and haze like no other.
Additional Fin-Nor Rx Program Features:
- Front and Backside hydrophobic/oleophobic coating
- Superior optical grade backside AR coating
- Authentic "Fin-Nor Rx" laser-etched logo
- 100% UV protection
- Uncompromised 100% polarization
Fin-Nor's lightweight frames use advanced, eco-friendly materials designed for all-day comfort and engineered for proper airflow. The performance frames feature an innovative venting system, built-in shields for light management, adjustable nose pads, and spring hinges for flexibility and fit.
Body Piercings and Plastics Surgery
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PLANO EDGE 3700 JERKBAIT BOX
The newest Plano EDGE box is designed with the same performance features that consumers have come to enjoy made specifically for jerkbaits.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (June 28, 2023) — Building on the award-winning Plano EDGE product line, the new 3700 Jerkbait Box was designed to protect, store and extend the life of your favorite jerkbaits. Answering the call from consumers, the new 3700 Jerkbait Box continues to expand upon the Plano EDGE storage solution that avid anglers have come to rely on.
“The Plano EDGE product line delivers a premium storage solution for avid anglers, and we’re excited to offer a new bait-specific utility box for jerkbaits. The design of the new Jerkbait Box incorporates industry-leading innovation to protect the significant investment that anglers make in these baits to protect their finish, hooks, and action,” said Matt Spafford, Director, Category for Plano.
With space to store up to 20 jerkbaits, the Plano EDGE 3700 Jerkbait Box delivers proven EDGE features, including an ultra-clear lid and EZ label system for quick tackle identification, a one-handed latch for easy access, and Rustrictor technology to prevent rust and corrosion. The 3700 Jerkbait Box includes a Dri-Loc o-ring seal to keep water out and comes in a 3700 size designed to fit in 3700-size tackle bags. Through rigorous testing in real-life situations, the new Plano EDGE 3700 Jerkbait Box has been purpose-built with the avid angler in mind.
Key Features
• Designed to store up to 20 jerkbaits
• EZ label system for organization and ultra-clear lid for identification of contents
• Rustrictor and Water Wick technology with 360-degree rust and moisture preventative protection
• Constructed with steel pin hinges and a one-hand latch for secure opening/closing
• 14” L x 9” W x 1.88” H
MSRP: $49.99
Available: September 2023
B.A.S.S. launches new members-only area of website
June 28, 2023
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S., the worldwide authority on bass fishing, is launching a new members-only area of its website with exclusive discounts, access to B.A.S.S.’s ultra-popular archived television shows, pro tips and more. The move comes as a direct response to requests voiced by the organization’s 500,000 members.
“In recent surveys, exclusive discounts and members-only content topped the list of most sought-after benefits for B.A.S.S. members,” said Chris Sheppard, B.A.S.S. membership director. “We listened and partnered with our sponsors to provide extra value on fishing-related purchases, opened the vault to look into B.A.S.S. history and added exclusive tips and techniques to create a members-only section of Bassmaster.com that increases the value of a B.A.S.S. membership.”
In addition to the exclusive web content and discounts from B.A.S.S. sponsors and some of fishing’s biggest brands, the annual membership to B.A.S.S. includes a subscription to the renowned Bassmaster Magazine, Rapala Bassmaster Fantasy Fishing bonus prizes, tournament eligibility and automatic entry to prize giveaways throughout the year. Plus, members are eligible to join the B.A.S.S. Nation and compete in B.A.S.S. Nation tournaments. The B.A.S.S. Nation is a global network of locally organized clubs whose members participate in and support a range of activities, including conservation initiatives, youth programs and tournaments, with the opportunity for three members to advance as far as the iconic Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Toyota.
Fishing fans can join B.A.S.S., renew their membership or learn more about valuable member benefits at Bassmaster.com/b-a-s-s-membership-faqs.
Feed big largemouth oversized lures for more summer fun
East Texas bass fishing legend Stephen Johnston doesn’t always carry an inflatable innertube and a fruity drink on the spacious front deck of his Vexus, but when it comes to having summer fun with trophy-sized summer largemouth, he’s never without big plastic worms and deep diving crankbaits.
Fisheries biologist and Bass Fishing Hall of Famer, Gene Gilliland,explains that Johnston is wisely appealing to a big largemouth’s warm water appetite. “Bass are cold-blooded critters, so in the summer, when water temperatures are at their peak, a bass' metabolism is ramped up as high as it gets all year, and that demands a lot of food intake,” says Gilliland.
“Furthermore, Mother Nature programs predators for efficiency. So,eating a big meal is more efficient than burning a lot of calories whilechasing down lots of smaller forage items,” he explains.
First, let the thermocline help you find them
Before you can feed them a big worm or oversized crank, you gotta find them, and Johnston says today’s electronics will easily show a horizontal band of ‘pepper’ across the screen representing the thermocline. This is where a major change in water temperature and oxygen levels exist as you go deeper in the water column.
“There’s hardly any oxygen below a summer thermocline. So, for example, if you see the thermocline is 20-feet deep, then you want to target fish-holding spots a few feet shallower, around 16 or 17 feet deep, because there’s obviously no need to dredge around where there’s no oxygen,” says Johnston, who appreciates the super-wide front deck of his Vexus VX21 that allows him to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with two clients as they line up precise casts on schools of fish he’s located.
Serve the big worm first, and use a ½-ounce sinker
Oversized worms and deep diving crankbaits are often served together like backyard burgers and potato salad during summer, but Johnston says it’s wise to offer a school of hungry largemouth the worm first, because fish hooked on a big crankbait sometimes pull loose, and that spooks the rest of the fish in the school from biting. However, bass seldom come unbuttoned on a plastic worm.
“The one thing I do a little different when fishing a big worm is use a ½-ounce sinker instead of a 3/8 or 5/16. I want that heavier weight to help me get their attention by creating a bigger disturbance on the bottom of the lake,” says Johnston.
Be properly equipped for deep crankin’
Crankbaits that dive to a max depth of around 15-feet or less, and weigh less than an ounce, can be thrown on 12 pound line, but when stepping up to the mega-sized deep divers like Strike King’s 10 XD, which weighs a hefty 2-ounces, and can consistently reach depths of 20-feet or more, you’d better be throwing it on at least 18-pound Sunline Sniper fluorocarbon.
A really long cast is absolutely critical to achieving maximum depth and keeping the lure at that depth for a long period of time. That’s best achieved by utilizing a rod at least 7’ 6” in length with plenty of flex to allow you to ‘sling’ it. Johnston’s deep cranking rod of choice is a Shimano Zodias glass casting rod.
So, don’t be intimidated by the bigger baits preferred by the high metabolic rates of hot weather bass. First, find the thermocline, and then feed ‘em the sort of oversized treat that appeals to them in the same way you’re likely fond of a burger on the grill and a refreshing beverage amid the year’s warmest months.
Introducing the New Ultrex QUEST: a Trolling Motor Built for the Harshest Environments
Ultrex QUEST gives anglers everything they love about Ultrex with an updated brushless design to tackle the most punishing conditions
RACINE, Wis. (June 28, 2023) – Fishing’s most trusted trolling motor has been reimagined to help anglers get out earlier, stay out later and fish in places others can’t. The new QUEST series of dual 24 or 36 volt brushless trolling motors was designed for anglers who demand the best from their equipment – even in the harshest environments. With a programmable foot pedal, re-engineered motor and mount, more advanced GPS functionality than ever and even an eco mode to extend battery life, the new Ultrex was specifically designed for bass anglers and the areas they fish.
The Ultrex line features both traditional brushed options as well as the upgraded QUEST variations. Every new Ultrex model features an updated and integrated GPS-enabled navigation system which is fully compatible with Humminbird fish finders without the need for additional steps or cables. The change simplifies the product line and allows for Humminbird connectivity right out of the box. Anglers who opt for a QUEST model will benefit from the added torque and runtime of the new brushless technology platform as well.
New Features for All Ultrex Models:
- NEW Enhanced GPS Suite Including Drift Mode to allow anglers to spend more time fishing and less time on boat control
o Drift Mode: combats current and wind by automatically adjusting speed and direction to keep the boat on a true drift. Drift Mode acts as a gps drift sock eliminating the need for cumbersome ropes or shallow water anchor paddles - Out of the Box connection to Humminbird via the One-Boat Network by including all necessary adapters required for networking without additional need for setup
- One App for Everything – the One-Boat Network App can control everything on the boat from the trolling motor and shallow water anchors to the Humminbird head units
- Enhanced Built-in 2D Sonar with Dual Spectrum CHIRP adds Humminbird’s unrivaled sonar clarity to every Minn Kota motor
Minn Kota Ultrex QUEST
QUEST models of Ultrex include all of the same updates as brushed options with the addition of an all new technology platform - QUEST. These dual 24 or 36 volt brushless motors boast 30% longer runtime on a given charge and up to 50% greater torque.* QUEST gives anglers everything they love about Ultrex with a more robust and powerful brushless motor capable of enduring the most punishing environments.
New Features for Ultrex QUEST Models:
- Dual 24 or 36 volt Brushless Motor with up to 30% longer runtime and 50% greater torque*
o Up to 30% longer runtime on a single charge provides anglers more time on the water
o Up to 50% greater torque means more precise control in wind and waves and the ability to shed weeds more effectively - Redesigned and Upgraded Mount to accommodate the additional thrust and torque of the lower unit
- Carbon Fiber Infused Shaft for enhanced durability while maintaining flexibility to protect the bow of an angler’s boat
- Peak Performance and Efficiency from Updated Propellors which maximize torque throughout the speed range
- New lift-assist assembly to make getting the motor in and out of the water effortless
- Real-Time Battery Monitoring System lets anglers know time until empty at a given speed setting and prompts users to enter a power saving eco mode when batteries reach 20% charge
- No Loss of Power: constant power throughout the day with no drop in motor performance as battery voltage decreases over the length of a fishing day
- One-Boat Network Programmable Button: customized presets to include stow and deploy Minn Kota shallow water anchors, mark a waypoint, or engage autopilot
MSRP for brushed models: $2999.99-$3499.99
MSRP for QUEST Models: $3699.99-$4199.99
Available: July 1
*Compared to 24 volt brushed motor at maximum speed setting
Dustin Connell Wins Group B Qualifying Round at MLF General Tire Stage Six at Lake St. Clair
Weights Now Zeroed, Top 20 Anglers from Each Group Combine to Compete in Wednesday’s Knockout Round
HARRISON TOWNSHIP, Mich. (June 27, 2023) – Favorite Fishing pro Dustin Connell of Clanton, Alabama , maintained his position atop the leaderboard, catching a two-day total of 10 bass weighing 45 pounds, 9 ounces, to lead Group B and win Tuesday’s Qualifying Round at the Major League Fishing (MLF) Bass Pro Tour General Tire Stage Six at Lake St. Clair Presented by John Deere Utility Vehicles .
The remaining 40 anglers – the top 20 from each group – now advance to Wednesday’s Knockout Round, where weights are zeroed, and the anglers compete to finish in the top 10 to advance to the Championship Round on Thursday. Weights will carry over from the Knockout Round into the Championship Round, which will feature the final 10 anglers competing for the heaviest two-day cumulative total and the top prize of $100,000.
“It’s been a good two days, but now the real derby starts,” said Connell. “I was able to practice and look around a lot today, but it’s strictly business now. I’ve done great in the Qualifying Rounds this season, but I haven’t done too well in the Knockout Round. I have a feeling that might change in this event though.”
Connell spent the day bouncing around various places on the lower section of Lake St. Clair using his Lowrance ActiveTarget. He said he found a new area – and two new schools of fish – where he expects to find some big ones.
“I’m on such a big area and that’s played out well for me,” said Connell. “I’m able to get away from everyone else and there hasn’t been a single boat in sight, which just makes it better. Hopefully the weather lays down on Wednesday, because if it does, a lot of these fish will slide up off the bottom and that will make it easier to see them and catch them.”
Connell’s five-fish limit on Tuesday included a group of 4-pounders and a 5-pound, 7-ounce kicker fish that he weighed in during Period 2. He caught all of his fish on his 7-foot, 2-inch medium heavy Favorite Fishing Hex Rod, throwing a Googan Baits Rattlin’ Ned on a 3/8-ounce drop-shot rig, using 15-pound braid and a 12-pound Seaguar Gold Label Fluorocarbon Leader.
The top 20 pros in Group B that now advance to Wednesday’s Knockout Round on Lake St. Clair are:
1st: Dustin Connell, Clanton, Ala., 10 bass, 45-9
2nd: Mark Daniels Jr., Tuskegee, Ala., 10 bass, 42-5
3rd: Mark Davis, Mount Ida, Ark., 10 bass, 41-4
4th: Jacob Wheeler, Harrison, Tenn., 10 bass, 40-6
5th: John Hunter, Shelbyville, Ky., 10 bass, 40-1
6th: Bradley Roy, Lancaster, Ky., 10 bass, 39-11
7th: Jesse Wiggins, Addison, Ala., 10 bass, 39-11
8th: Kevin VanDam, Kalamazoo, Mich., 10 bass, 38-14
9th: Gerald Spohrer, Gonzales, La., 10 bass, 38-5
10th: Josh Bertrand, Queen Creek, Ariz., 10 bass, 38-3
11th: Jeremy Lawyer, Sarcoxie, Mo., 10 bass, 38-2
12th: Dylan Hays, Hot Springs, Ark., 10 bass, 38-1
13th: Jeff Sprague, Wills Point, Texas, 10 bass, 37-4
14th: Justin Lucas, Guntersville, Ala., 10 bass, 36-14
15th: Cliff Pace, Petal, Miss., 10 bass, 36-9
16th: Brett Hite, Phoenix, Ariz., 10 bass, 36-0
17th: Fred Roumbanis, Russellville, Ark., 10 bass, 35-7
18th: Scott Suggs, Alexander, Ark., 10 bass, 35-1
19th: Gary Klein, Mingus, Texas, 10 bass, 34-13
20th: Jacob Wall, New Hope, Ala., 10 bass, 34-5
Eliminated from competition are:
21st: Keith Poche, Pike Road, Ala., 10 bass, 34-4
22nd: Shin Fukae, Osaka, Japan, 10 bass, 34-4
23rd: John Murray, Spring City, Tenn., 10 bass, 34-1
24th: Alton Jones, Lorena, Texas, 10 bass, 34-0
25th: Brent Ehrler, Redlands, Calif., 10 bass, 33-15
26th: James Elam, Tulsa, Okla., 10 bass, 33-12
27th: Nick LeBrun, Bossier City, La., 10 bass, 33-10
28th: Edwin Evers, Talala, Okla., 10 bass, 33-10
29th: Zack Birge, Blanchard, Okla., 10 bass, 32-5
30th: Mike McClelland, Blue Eye, Mo., 10 bass, 32-4
31st: Brandon Coulter, Knoxville, Tenn., 10 bass, 31-4
32nd: Skeet Reese, Auburn, Calif., 10 bass, 30-3
33rd: Luke Clausen, Spokane, Wash., 10 bass, 30-1
34th: Matt Lee, Cullman, Ala., 10 bass, 29-9
35th: Russ Lane, Prattville, Ala., 10 bass, 28-12
36th: Jared Lintner, Covington, Ga., 10 bass, 28-12
37th: Dakota Ebare, Brookeland, Texas, eight bass, 28-7
38th: Todd Faircloth, Jasper, Texas, eight bass, 27-14
39th: Tommy Biffle, Wagoner, Okla., 10 bass, 27-8
40th: Stephen Browning, Hot Springs, Ark., 10 bass, 24-11
A complete list of results can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.
Tuesday’s $1,000 Berkley Big Bass Award was awarded to pro Kevin VanDam of Kalamazoo, Michigan, who weighed in a 6-pound, 2-ounce smallmouth – the biggest bass of the event thus far – which bit a jerkbait in Period 2. Berkley awards $1,000 to the angler who weighs the heaviest bass each day, and another $3,000 bonus to the angler who weighs the heaviest bass of the tournament.
The six-day event, hosted by the Detroit Sports Commission, Macomb County and Lake St. Clair Metroparks, showcases 80 of the top professional anglers in the world, competing for a purse of more than $805,000, including a top payout of $100,000 and valuable Angler of the Year (AOY) points in hopes of qualifying for the General Tire Heavy Hitters All-Star event and REDCREST 2024, the Bass Pro Tour championship.
Anglers will launch each day at 7:20 a.m. ET from Lake St. Clair Metropark, located at 31300 Metro Parkway in Harrison Township. Each day’s General Tire Takeout will be held at the Metropark, beginning at 4 p.m. Fans are welcome to attend all launch and takeout events and also encouraged to follow the event online throughout the day on the MLFNOW!® live stream and SCORETRACKER® coverage at MajorLeagueFishing.com.
On Championship Thursday, June 29, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., MLF will welcome fans of all ages to celebrate the top 10 and crown the General Tire Stage Six at Lake St. Clair Champion at the Watch Party and Trophy Presentation. The final 10 Championship Round Bass Pro Tour anglers will be on hand at the trophy celebration to meet and greet fans, sign autographs and take selfies.
The General Tire Stage Six at Lake St. Clair Presented by John Deere Utility Vehicles features anglers competing using the MLF catch, weigh, immediate-release format, with each angler’s five (5) heaviest bass per day tallied as their day’s weight. Anglers strive to catch their heaviest five fish each day, while also feeling the pressure and intensity of the live scoring SCORETRACKER® leaderboard. Minimum weights are determined individually for each competition waters that the Bass Pro Tour visits, based on the productivity, bass population and anticipated average size of fish in each fishery.
The 2023 MLF Bass Pro Tour features a field of 80 of the top professional anglers in the world competing across seven regular-season tournaments around the country, fishing for millions of dollars and valuable points to qualify for the annual General Tire Heavy Hitters all-star event and REDCREST 2024, the Bass Pro Tour championship, held March 13-17, 2024, on Lay Lake in Birmingham, Alabama.
The MLFNOW!® broadcast team of Chad McKee, Marty Stone and J.T. Kenney will break down the extended action live on all six days of competition from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET. MLFNOW!® will be live streamed on MajorLeagueFishing.com and the MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) app.
Television coverage of the General Tire Stage Six at Lake St. Clair Presented by John Deere Utility Vehicles Championship Round will air as a two-hour episode starting at 7 a.m. ET, on Saturday, November 4 on the Discovery Channel. New MLF episodes premiere each Saturday morning on Discovery, with re-airings on the Outdoor Channel.
Proud sponsors of the 2023 MLF Bass Pro Tour include: 13 Fishing, Abu Garcia, Ark Fishing, ATG by Wrangler, B&W Trailer Hitches, Bally Bet, Bass Cat Boats, Bass Pro Shops, Berkley, Black Rifle Coffee, Daiwa, Epic Baits, Favorite Fishing, Ferguson, Fox Rent A Car, General Tire, Grundéns, Humminbird, Lowrance, Minn Kota, Mercury, Mossy Oak, Onyx, Power-Pole, Rapala, Star tron, T-H Marine, TORO, Toyota, U.S. Air Force, Yellowstone Bourbon, Yo-Zuri and Zoom Baits.
For complete details and updated information on Major League Fishing and the Bass Pro Tour, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF’s social media outlets at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
Amazing Performance, Shocking Price
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WHITEWATER Fishing’s Lightweight Tech Hoodie and Long Sleeve Tech Shirt wear and fish like comparable tops twice their price. |
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By Maynard Lee |
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MUSKEGON, Mich. (June 27, 2023) – $34.99 is a scary price for a fishing shirt. Typically, you wouldn’t expect much. Or, you’d simply thump past it on the rack looking for a better build, different brand. That’s certainly the case with knockoff fishing shirts and private labels. You get what you pay for. But, quite astonishingly, that isn’t the case with WHITEWATER Fishing’s Lightweight Tech Hoodie and Long Sleeve Tech Shirt. Now before my spiel, I solemnly swear having owned and fished both for over a year. That entails too many fishing adventures to tally and dozens of washings, often ending days with fish blood and Frank’s hot sauce on the fabric. |
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Let’s start with a bit about use. Lightweight performance fishing shirts provide comfortable and versatile protection from the sun’s harmful rays while wicking moisture to keep warm-weather anglers cool during the heat of the hunt. But many so-called fishing tech shirts have a downside. It’s called permastink. The lightweight polyester material, which forms the fabrics that perform so well in warm temperatures has a very small pore structure that can trap and tightly grip bacteria and odor molecules. Once trapped, these odors can be difficult or impossible to remove, even with repeated washings. |
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WHITEWATER Fishing’s Long-Sleeve Tech Shirt and Lightweight Tech Hoodie deliver a triple dose of technology to keeps anglers dry, protected from solar radiation, and smelling fresh. Their 100% polyester interlock fabric yields supreme, next-to-skin comfort, while wicking perspiration to keep you comfy and dry. UPF 30 provides both UVA and UVB skin protection that effectively blocks over 96% of ultraviolet radiation. Finally, an antimicrobial treatment controls and prevents odors, including the permastink that can infiltrate untreated polyester garments. The stretchy material is like witchcraft, too. Silky smooth to the touch. And it maintains its athletic fit after numberless wearing and washing. Functions like another layer of skin, one that protects you from the sun and draws moisture away. In these economic times when every purchase is under scrutiny, these top-shelf fishing shirts pass the performance and practicality tests. |
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FEATURES:
Long Sleeve Tech Shirt MSRP $29.99 Lightweight Tech Hoodie MSRP $34.99 |
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St. Clair Smallmouth Snacks
Courtesy of Luke Stoner - Dynamic Sponsorships
Photo - Garrick Dixon/Major League Fishing
Terry Scroggins is headed to the Knockout Round tomorrow after finishing in 5th place of Group A for General Tire Stage Six on Lake St. Clair with a two-day weight of over 38-lbs. Like many anglers in the field, Scroggins is employing a dropshot to catch his weight while bouncing in the steady waves this fishery is famous for.
Big Show’s primary area is on the Canadian side, and he is fishing around a lot of other anglers, both Bass Pro Tour competitors and locals. While his fishing technique and area may not be abnormally unique, Scroggins has figured out a few subtle tackle changes he believes have been key this week.
“I’m feeding them a little snack instead of the main-course meal,” Scroggins said. “With St. Clair having so many big fish in it, most of us started throwing bigger plastics the last few times we’ve come here. But I’ve downsized my rig and it seems like I’m getting more bites than the anglers around me.
“Normally I use the 4.25-inch Berkley Maxscent Flatworm on St. Clair, but all my fish came on the smaller 3.6-inch size, and I’ve gone down to a ¼-ounce weight on my dropshot versus the 3/8-ounce (or heavier) that most of the other guys are throwing.”
These adjustments may not sound too significant, but Scroggins stresses that subtleties are critical when it comes to smallmouth. As a fan watching live coverage, it can seem as though about every angler in the field is doing the same exact thing in a smallie slugfest. The pros will most likely be offshore, looking at their electronics, and dragging around something on a spinning rod. There are exceptions, but these elements are generally the norm, and to the untrained eye it can appear almost monotonous.
But the subtle distinctions of line size, jighead or dropshot weight size, soft plastic profile, and the depth range an angler invests their time in makes all the difference for tournaments like Stage Six on St. Clair. Dropping down is size comes with a cost, especially when fighting three-foot waves, but the results can be worth it.
“The wind has been blowing pretty good this week and it’s been a pain to fish a lighter weight in these conditions,” Scroggins explained. “But it pays to show the fish something different. Sometimes it’s the opposite and it’s best to show fish something bigger than they are used to seeing, but this week a smaller profile and lighter weight have helped me put more weight on the SCORETRACKER.”
Scroggins is also varying his leader lengths on his dropshots to give pressured smallmouth a different look throughout the day, and they are all strung up on a custom built 6’10” DS822-MHX Drop Shot Rod from Mud Hole Custom Tackle. This is Big Show’s go-to spinning rod for just about every application, whether he’s skipping wacky rigs for Florida largemouth or dragging a dropshot for a Michigan smallmouth.
Scroggins will be joined by Team Toyota colleagues Kevin VanDam and Mark Daniels Jr. in the Knockout Round, where they’ll all keep their foot on the gas in hopes of claiming a Bass Pro Tour trophy to ride home with in their Tundras. Follow the action starting at 8 a.m. ET tomorrow morning on MajorLeagueFishing.com.
Allen Hayes and Danny Bishop win ABT Wheeler Lake with 23.23
By Jason Duran
The final stop of the ABT 2023 regular season was held at Wheeler Lake in Decatur. 225 teams from the north division competed for the top prize of $10,000. In this final event, numerous factors were at stake including the AOY points race where the top 9 teams qualified to fish the BASS Team Championship and the top 75 move on to fish the ABT Championship. Teams reported tough fishing in practice, but the team of Allen Hayes and Danny Bishop caught 23.23 for the win lapping field by over two pounds to win $10,000.
Allen and Danny blasted off as boat number 216. Due to the high boat number, they were “hoping that no one would be in our area when we got there.” When they showed up to their area, they were surprised no one else was there, so they quickly went to work. On their second cast, they both caught a fish; one weighed 2-pounds, and the other was over 4-pounds. They were able to spend all their fishing time in that area. They describedthe area as a “river channel ledge that was holding fish because of a hard spot.” They found the area using side scan in practice and noticed there was an abundance of bait in the area. Other fishermen came to the area throughout the day, however, they were there first and were able to hold their ground and protect the area. They started out early with a topwater and crankbait, but quickly realized they needed to make a bait change because it seemed like the fish “didn’t really want to chase the bait.” They made a change to Texas rigged large worms and creature baits in June bug and green pumpkin color. Once they made the change, they were able to fill out their limit and upgrade it to 23.23- pounds. Once they reached that weight, they decided to head back and do their best to protect their fish. They arrived back at the landing 4.5 hours early and waited for the scales to open at 1:30. They weighed in as the first team and lead wire to wire over a very tough ABT field. With this win, they collected the $10,000 payday and automatically qualified for the ABT Championship.
The second-place team of Walker Brown and Sloan Pennington caught 20.65. The team shared, “we caught several small ones in practice, and if we stayed in and around Decatur and the grass,we could get bit. We just never caught any big ones. We spent two and half days looking around for hard spots that should be holding big fish this time of year. On tournament day, we knew we were going to stay in the grass all day.” The first cast of the day they used a “Zoom Ol Monster worm. We cast it all over the Decatur Flats. The goal was to spend time covering lots of water with the trolling motor. We only cranked the big motor twice,but we probably covered three miles on the trolling motor today. We also used a Buck Eye Mop Jig. We never could find the kicker fish; our biggest was 4.25. We were looking for one over 5 pounds. We tried to fish our own water and fish for fish that had not seen as many baits hopefully. We have struggled some this year, so this second place feels good.” With this finish, they collected $5,000 and moved in to 58th place in AOY which qualifies them to fish the ABT Championship.
The third-place team of Bryan Dowdy and Kyle Lewellen caught 18.65. “We put a lot practice time into this event. This lake has been our nemesis; we have never cashed a check here,so we put in the time to find some fish. We put together three patterns. We found some deep fish, some creek fish and some dirt shallow fish. Today we weighed in half our bag from deep and half from dirt shallow. We started out this morning on a deeper spot using a worm and spinnerbait. We really had to wait this morning for the fish to bite, but when they did, we caught a 3-pounder, a 4 –pounder, and 3.80 on back-to-back casts. The first six fish we caught gave us 17-pounds. From there, we went dirt shallow targeting wood and lily pads using a frog and a Jig.“This finish moves them into 6th place in the AOY standing and qualifies them to fish the BASS Team Championship and the ABT Championship. They collected a $3,000 ABT check, a $500 Garmin bonus, and a $2,500 Phoenix Boats payday.
The top ten standings are below for a complete list of standings please visit: https://www.alabamabasstrail.org/wheeler-lake/results/
John Kellett and Zeke Gossett claim the title of Anglers of the Year for the North Division and also qualify with the other top 9 teams to fish the BASS Team Championship:
PLACEANGLERSPOINTS
1John Kellett/Zeke Gossett1021
2Michael Wooley/Joe Wooley992
3Mark Mccaig/Tim Hurst979
4Shane Meers/James Meers975
5Wesley Sams/Jordan Wiggins969
6Bryan Dowdy/Kyle Lewellen968
7Damien Willis/Tyler Kiker967
8Justin Bussey/Ben Webb960
9Craig Daniel /Jackie Flack940
Download and listen to the ABT Podcast on your favorite Podcast app by searching for “Alabama Bass Trail Podcast.” The Podcast is released each week on Tuesday.
For Live coverage from this event and others visit https://www.youtube.com/@alabamabasstrailtv
Nightwave Marine Digital Night Vision Camera is True Boating Innovation
SIONYX Brings Dark Room Experience to ICAST 2023
Beverly, MASS. (June 27, 2023). The SIONYX Nightwave marine digital night vision camera has been the talk of the marine community since its launch in late 2022, giving anglers and boaters night vision in color at an accessible price. Featuring new upgrades this season, boaters can not only view its video directly from a boat's MFD, but the camera can now WiFi stream video to a tablet or phone with the SIONYX app and to a computer via USB connection. With additional colors added this year, Nightwave is set to introduce the upgrades at ICAST 2023 and is entered in the New Product Showcase within the Electronics category.
“ICAST attendees will be able to experience Nightwave’s low-light vision capabilities for themselves in our dark room at the SIONYX booth, #2005,” Says Michael Hauser, Global Maritime Sales Manager for SIONYX. “There will be no doubt in anyone’s mind after seeing it in action that this new technology for boaters and fishermen will be a major upgrade to how they operate at night.”
SIONYX is changing the night vision landscape with its proprietary digital night vision technology. Nightwave is a first-of-its-kind color digital night vision camera built around SIONYX's patented Black Silicon CMOS sensor that offers unparalleled <1 millilux moonless starlight sensitivity. This advanced technology displays high-resolution color images and videos with exceptional clarity, allowing boaters to experience heightened visual acuity at night. Unlike thermal imaging, which relies on temperature gradients to create images, digital night vision employs state-of-the-art sensors and advanced image processing algorithms to capture detailed and vibrant visuals, showcasing an impressive level of color accuracy, contrast, and depth perception. By providing a true-to-life representation of the scene, Nightwave offers superior object recognition capabilities in the darkness of night. With Nightwave, now mariners of all levels can spot obstacles and debris in moonless starlight without white light or expensive thermal cameras.
Navigating in low-light conditions can be a daunting task for any fisherman. Nightwave's 44-degree, stable field of view significantly enhances situational awareness, enabling you to spot unexpected markers, vessels, and land formations with remarkable clarity. This wide field of view ensures that no details escape your attention, making navigation in the dark more accessible than ever before. Whether you need to locate specific fishing ground before dawn or find your way back to the shore post-sunset, Nightwave provides the visual aid you need for a smooth and safe journey.
The Nightwave camera has a rugged marine-grade housing with an IP67 rating that protects against water, sand, salt, and dust. The camera is dry nitrogen purged to prevent lens fogging, so you can safely use it in inclement weather conditions. Nightwave offers flexible installation options, so you can permanently mount it or use a temporary ¼”-20 mount for a temporary or portable setup. The camera is compatible with most major brand MFDs, so you can view video using your existing electronics, over WiFi through the SIONYX mobile app, or to a computer via USB connection. Stay connected and in control of your movement, no matter where you are on the water.
With SIONYX Nightwave, seeing in the dark is your new superpower. Extend your day on the water and get home safe. Nightwave takes the darkness out of the night.
Nightwave is available in (new) black, white, and gray options for $1995 MSRP. For more information, please click here.
Notable features include:
- <1MLX moonless starlight sensitivity: allows mariners to see well beyond human eyesight and detect a man-sized object at 170 meters.
- Stable 44-degree field of view: increases situational awareness to spot unexpected obstacles, debris, markers, vessels, and more.
- Convenient installation flexibility: permanent mounting hardware is included, as well as a standard 1/4”-20 mount interface. Nightwave can be oriented ball-up or ball-down to meet any challenging mounting requirements.
- Up-to-date performance: the latest firmware and software releases are always available through the SIONYX mobile app.
