The Mimicry Continues
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New Mimic Minnow Swim Jig combines Northland Fishing Tackle’s iconic sculpted head and performance with a precision Gamakatsu hook. |
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BEMIDJI, Minn. (July 28, 2022) – Swimbait fishing has its origins on the southern reservoirs of California. Back in the 80’s, anglers learned to mimic the looks and locomotion of trout. Why? Like stripers on mid-state reservoirs, gigantic black bass realize the full-meal-deal these stocked fish provide. Over time, bassers around the country applied the presentation to their local quarry, regardless if trout were on the menu, because swimbaits can emulate everything from bluegills to shiners and shad. Now, improving on what the market has to offer, Northland introduces the Mimic Minnow Swim Jig. This best-of-class swimbait jig is established on the cosmetics and effectiveness of the original Mimic Minnow Jig, which has been a multispecies darling for years. The Mimic Minnow Swim Jig commences on an authentic looking, sculpted jighead. The bait-shaped and detailed jighead features realistic eyeballs and flared gills, and its 60-degree line-tie promotes an even-keel action and ability to find its way through cover like cabbage and coontail. |
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Separating it from the pack, the extraordinary heavy-duty jighead is outfitted with a premium Gamakatsu hook, which is noticeably sharp and extremely strong for hearty hooksets. You’ll also appreciate the Mimic Minnow Swim Jig’s unique double bait keeper. The base keeper is forged into the jighead. Next, Northland added a stout wire keeper to amplify the Mimic Minnow Swim Jig’s ability to hold plastics in place. Northland pro Craig Peterson offers his take on swimbait fishing with the new Mimic Minnow Swim Jig: “Swimbaits are great for long casts and covering a lot of water, like big weed flats. You can also run them along the outside weed edge just as effectively.” “I fish heavier size Mimic Minnow Swim Jigs – like a ½- or ¾-ouncer – when I want to fish it fast or deep,” added Peterson. “The lighter and smaller ¼- and 3/8-ounce sizes are better for fishing slower and with more finesse. The lighter versions also work well for pounding shallow banks.” |
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Peterson has color preferences in specific situations, too. He likes darker patterns such as Black and Green Pumpkin in darker water, as they produce the natural shadowed silhouette bass experience in real life. In clearer conditions, he selects the brownish gold Walleye pattern. He says Smelt, a whitish pattern, produces just about anywhere. And to match-the-hatch, he picks Bluegill when bass are feeding on young-of-the-year and juvenile sunfish. In Peterson’s experience, it’s wise to look for what’s finning and creeping around the boat landing – like baitfish, bluegills, and crayfish – and emulate the size and coloration. As well, he suggests paying attention to what a landed bass might upchuck and match it. |
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Paddletails and soft jerkbaits are proven pairings with the Mimic Minnow Swim Jig. As a rule, you want to match up jig size with the appropriate bait length to give it an authentic baitfish profile and promote smooth swimming. Coordinating colors is the most popular process, too. For example, employing dark-patterned plastics with a Black Mimic Minnow Swim Jig, or white to silvers with a Smelt jighead. That said, don’t be afraid to contrast colors for extra pop. Swimbaits were concocted for bass fishing, but savvy walleye anglers have also tapped the tactic. Patterns like Perch, Sexy Shad, and Purple Shad sport combinations of favored walleye colors. Consider pairing them with aggressive plastic colors like chartreuse, blue and something purplish. |
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Green Pumpkin |
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Shad |
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Black |
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Walleye |
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Perch |
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Purple Shad |
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Sexy Shad |
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Northland’s new Mimic Minnow Swim Jig is available in 4 sizes and 8 tested colors. Sizes include ¼-, 3/8-, ½-, and ¾-ounce. Colors include Black, Smelt, Walleye, Perch, Bluegill, Sexy Shad, Green Pumpkin, and Purple Shad. Sold 2 per pack. MSRP is $6.49. Available now, the Mimic Minnow Swim Jig will be a surefire addition to your tackle arsenal. |
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Przekurat Rockets Back Into Bassmaster Rookie Of The Year Lead
With two events remaining in the 2022 Bassmaster Elite Series season, Jay Prezkurat of Stevens Point, Wis., is leading the Falcon Rods Bassmaster Rookie of the Year standings.
Photo by Seigo Saito/B.A.S.S.
July 28, 2022
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Jay Przekurat of Stevens Point, Wis., is back in first place in the Falcon Rods Bassmaster Rookie of the Year race. It’s where he’s been for five of the seven Elite Series tournaments this season. But Prezekurat entered the recent Guaranteed Rate Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence River in third place after posting finishes of 74th at Lake Fork and 66th at Pickwick Lake.
Przekurat, who turned 23 in June, was expected to thrive when the Elite Series made its annual end-of-season Northern Swing to fisheries dominated by smallmouth bass. However, no one expected him to win at the St. Lawrence River, where he’d never before competed, even if smallmouth bass were the dominant species.
And what did Przekurat do? He became the youngest angler to ever win an Elite Series tournament and became the first to win with over 100 pounds in an Elite Series tournament. Przekurat’s winning weight of 102 pounds, 9 ounces, over four days was thus remarkable in many ways.
With only two tournaments left, including a finale at the Mississippi River at La Crosse, Wis., Przekurat is back in the favorite’s position for the ROY title.
However, it would be unwise to overlook Jacob Foutz, the Charleston, Tenn., resident who grew up fishing for smallmouth bass on Lake Erie. He showed his strength on smallmouth waters by taking the lead on Day 1 at the St. Lawrence River before ultimately finishing 27th. Foutz had a rough start to his rookie year, finishing 84th, 62nd and 55th in the first three Elite events. He has since posted finishes of third at Chickamauga Lake, 28th at Lake Fork, fourth at Pickwick Lake and 27th at St. Lawrence. Foutz trails Przekurat by only 11 points after seven events.
The ROY standings were shaken up at the St. Lawrence when previous leader, Joseph Webster of Hamilton, Ala., finished 88th and fell to fourth place. Cody Huff of Ava, Mo., moved up to third place, his highest spot in the standings this season.
The strength of the 10-angler 2022 rookie class stood out, especially on Day 1 at the St. Lawrence when Foutz was in first place with 27-15 with Przekurat right behind in second with 26-13.
The Elite Series field takes to the water again August 18-21 at the Guaranteed Rate Bassmaster Elite at Lake Oahe in South Dakota.
ICAST Round-up & Cheaters Never Win.....
Chris and David are back from ICAST with some insight into this years show and Kenneth brings the heat with his take from the outside looking in during last weeks festivities. The trio also jump on the cheating bandwagon and look into some recent news as well. All this and more!
MLF Issues Statement on Bass Pro Tour Stage One Penalty for Sprague
JULY 26, 2022 • MLF • BASS PRO TOUR
Pro Jeff Sprague of Wills Point, Texas, will forfeit his fifth-place finish from the 2022 Stage One Bass Pro Tour event in West Monroe, Louisiana, for violating Bass Pro Tour rule No. 23-A. The disqualification was announced today by Don Rucks, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Major League Fishing. The rule states that Bass Pro Tour anglers are prohibited from intentionally soliciting or intentionally receiving any information pertaining to tournament waters from a non-competitor for the purpose of locating or catching bass. If any such information is unintentionally being received from a non-competitor, the MLF Bass Pro Tour angler must politely ask the non-competitor to cease from divulging the information.
Sprague issued a statement on the incident:
“I received information from a non-competitor regarding Lake D’Arbonne, which violated rule 23-A. I fully accept MLF’s penalty ruling of a disqualification for the Stage One event. I want to apologize for my mistake in this matter. I am ready to head north to finish the remainder of the 2022 season and I look forward to continuing my fishing career with MLF for many seasons to come.”
Bass Pro Tour point standings and payouts from Stage One will be adjusted accordingly.
For complete rules, 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.
Cayuga Lake Readies to Host Major League Fishing’s Bass Pro Tour Fox Rent A Car Stage Six
Six-Day Tournament to Showcase 80 Pro Anglers Competing for Top Prize of $100,000 and Total Purse of $805,000
UNION SPRINGS, N.Y. (July 26, 2022) – Major League Fishing (MLF) is set to return to Upstate New York next week, Aug. 6-11, for the sixth event of the 2022 MLF Bass Pro Tour regular-season – the Fox Rent A Car Stage Six on Cayuga Lake Presented by Googan Baits.
The six-day event, hosted by the Village of Union Springs, will showcase 80 of the best professional anglers in the world, including bass-fishing superstars like Kevin VanDam, Ott DeFoe, Jacob Wheeler, Jordan Lee, and reigning REDCREST Champion Bobby Lane. They’ll be competing for a purse of more than $805,000, including a top payout of $100,000 and valuable points in hopes of qualifying for REDCREST IV, the Bass Pro Tour championship.
“The Village of Union Springs is once again excited and privileged to have the top professional bass fisherman in the world here from August 6-11,” said Union Springs Mayor Bud Shattuck. “Major League Fishing has an exciting format that will be a unique experience for the young people and adults alike to watch.”
While Cayuga Lake has seen plenty of bass tournaments over the years, the majority of MLF experience is limited to a handful of Phoenix Bass Fishing League tournaments and the 2020 MLF Heritage Cup, which featured the competitors competing on three different lakes, with the final-day Championship Round anglers competing on Cayuga Lake. This tournament will feature the MLF catch, weigh, immediate-release format in which anglers catch as much weight as they can each day, while also feeling the pressure and intensity of the SCORETRACKER® leaderboard. The tournament will be filmed for broadcast later this year on the Discovery Channel.
“Cayuga is a really unique lake,” said Kalamazoo, Michigan’s Kevin VanDam. “It has a northern shallow end with a lot of grass and a big population of largemouth. During the summer, you can head back to the main lake and fish deeper rocky areas, and there is still grass. Zebra mussels cleared it up a lot, and now it has gobies, and a lot of 5-plus-pounders in the lake. It didn’t have fish that big previously. You can add 2 pounds to the average weight of a big fish from 10 years ago.
“The last time I fished there, I won an event. There were a ridiculous number of 5-pounders caught.”
VanDam said he believes that anglers can win with either largemouth or smallmouth bass.
“With the shallow grass fishing in the north end, a lot of anglers will focus on largemouth bass,” VanDam said. “The other big player for largemouth are shallow boat docks. Fishing deep rockpiles for smallmouth can also be extremely productive. Find the right one, and they concentrate there. They’re big, plentiful, and aggressive.
“The tournament could be won deep or dirt shallow. Whether Ish (Monroe) wants to throw a frog shallow, or (Justin) Lucas or (Josh) Bertrand fish their offshore strengths, they can all fish how they’d like to fish. It will definitely be a special week.”
After five events in the 2022 Bass Pro Tour regular season, reigning 2021 Bally Bet Angler of the Year (AOY) Jacob Wheeler again sits in first place with 379 points, while the 2020 AOY Jordan Lee is right behind Wheeler in second place with 341 points. Dayton, Tennessee’s Andy Morgan sits in third with 315 points, while Kevin VanDam currently sits in fourth place with 302.5 points. Florida pro Randall Tharp rounds out the top five with 302 points.
Anglers will launch each day at 7:30 a.m. ET from Frontenac Park, located at 15 Creamery Road in Union Springs. Each day’s General Tire Takeout will be held at the park, 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 MLF NOW!® live stream and SCORETRACKER® coverage at MajorLeagueFishing.com.
As part of the event, on Saturday, Aug. 6 and Sunday, Aug. 7, from Noon to 5 p.m., fans are invited out to the Major League Fishing Festival at the Frontenac Park. Hosted by the Village of Union Springs, the event will feature fans meeting and getting autographs from their favorite pro anglers that compete on the Bass Pro Tour. Children are welcome to visit the Kids Zone to meet Skye & Marshall from PAW Patrol, fish for live fish in the Kids Fishing Pond, show off their artistic skills at the coloring stations, and more. Vendor booths from MLF sponsors, food, prizes and giveaways, including a FREE Abu Garcia rod and reel combo for the first 50 youth in attendance both days. On Saturday and Sunday, one lucky attendee will play for a brand-new Toro 42-inch TimeCutter Zero Turn Mower in the Toro Pick ‘Til You Win game, with runner up prizes of a new 70-inch LED 4K Smart TV or a $500 VISA gift card. For more information on the Major League Fishing Festival, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com/Attend.
On Monday, Aug. 8 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., the MLF Fisheries Management Division (FMD) will be participating in a clean-up event at Frontenac Park – the FMD Costa Clean Water Matters Program. MLF Pro Anglers and Volunteers will walk the park and shorelines to clean up trash and debris from the shores of Cayuga Lake.
On Championship Thursday, Aug. 11, from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. MLF will host a Celebration Event for fans of all ages, inviting fans to come out and celebrate with the professional anglers from the Bass Pro Tour as they crown the champion of the Fox Rent A Car Stage Six on Cayuga Lake Presented by Googan Baits. Before the celebration, an MLF watch party starts at 1:30 p.m., and the first 50 middle school or high school anglers in attendance will receive a free Abu Garcia rod and reel combo valued at $100. 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 Fox Rent A Car Stage Six on Cayuga Lake Presented by Googan Baits will feature anglers competing with a 2-pound minimum weight requirement for a bass to be deemed scorable. 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 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, competing for millions of dollars and valuable points to qualify for the annual General Tire Heavy Hitters all-star event and REDCREST IV, the Bass Pro Tour championship, which will be held next March on Lake Norman in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The 40 Anglers in Group A compete in their two-day qualifying round on Saturday and Monday – the 40 anglers in Group B on Sunday and Tuesday. After each two-day qualifying round is complete, the anglers that finish in 2nd through 20th place from both groups advance to Wednesday’s Knockout Round, while the winner of each group advances directly to Thursday’s Championship Round. In the Knockout Round, weights are zeroed, and the remaining 38 anglers compete to finish in the top 8 to advance to the Championship Round. In the final day Championship Round, weights are zeroed, and the highest one-day total wins the top prize of $100,000.
The MLF NOW!® broadcast team of Chad McKee, Marty Stone and J.T. Kenney will break down the extended action on all six days of competition from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET. MLF NOW!® will be live streamed on MajorLeagueFishing.com and the MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) app.
Television coverage of the Fox Rent A Car Stage Six on Cayuga Lake Presented by Googan Baits will premiere as a two-hour episode at 7 a.m. ET, on Saturday, Nov. 12 on the Discovery Channel. New MLF episodes premiere each Saturday morning on the Discovery Channel, with additional re-airings on the Outdoor Channel. Each two-hour long reality-based episode goes in-depth to break down each day of tournament competition.
Proud sponsors of the 2022 MLF Bass Pro Tour include: 13 Fishing, Abu Garcia, A.R.E. Truck Caps, B&W Trailer Hitches, Bally Bet, Bass Cat, Bass Pro Shops, Berkley, Covercraft, Favorite Fishing, Garmin, General Tire, Googan Baits, Grundéns, Guaranteed Rate, Humminbird, Lowrance, Luminox, Mercury, Minn Kota, Mossy Oak, Nitro Performance Boats, Onyx, Plano, Power-Pole, Power Stop, Rapala, Starbrite, Toro, Toyota, Wrangler, Yellowstone Bourbon and Zoom.
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.
Palaniuk’s Lead Widens In Bassmaster Angler Of The Year Race
With two events remaining in the 2022 Bassmaster Elite Series season, Brandon Palaniuk of Rathdrum, Idaho, is leading the Progressive Bassmaster Angler of the Year standings.
Photo by Seigo Saito/B.A.S.S.
July 26, 2022
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Brandon Palaniuk of Rathdrum, Idaho, knows he’s leading the race for the Progressive Bassmaster Angler of the Year title. He insists that he doesn’t know by how much. His mindset is simply, “I’ve got a one-point lead — one point.”
In reality, despite turning in his second-worst event of the season, Palaniuk’s lead over second place grew from 18 points to 41 after the Guaranteed Rate Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence River. When your worst performance is 26th at Florida’s Harris Chain and your second-worst is 25th at the St. Lawrence, clearly you’re having a remarkable season.
However, 25th place marked Palaniuk’s worst finish at the St. Lawrence, where he won in 2013 and has amassed four other Top 10s.
“It’s all about perspective,” he said. “I finished 26th at Florida, and I was ecstatic about it. I finished 25th at the St. Lawrence, and I feel like I got gut punched. But that’s because of the expectations I set for myself.”
After seven tournaments in the nine-tournament 2022 season, David Mullins of Mt. Carmel, Tenn., has moved into second place and shaved a few points off his deficit with a 16th-place finish at St. Lawrence. John Cox of DeBary, Fla., stumbled in New York, dropping to third place in the AOY standings after missing the Top 47 cut for the first time this season. Brandon Lester of Fayetteville, Tenn., and Drew Benton of Blakely, Ga., round out the Top 5.
The drama is more intense at the Bassmaster Classic cutline. Currently, four Elite Series pros are double qualifiers for the 2023 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk, including three winners from the St. Croix Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Mossy Oak Fishing: Lester, fourth in AOY and winner of the Kissimmee Chain Southern Open; Japan’s Kenta Kimura, 14th in AOY and the James River Northern Open winner; Oklahoma pro Jason Christie, 21st in AOY and reigning Bassmaster Classic champion; and Texas angler Lee Livesay, 38th in AOY and the Ross Barnett Central Open winner.
With those double qualifiers, the list of Elite Series qualifiers for the 2023 Classic, which starts with the Top 39 in the final 2022 AOY standings, now extends to the Top 43. That could change if Livesay drops below 42nd in the final standings. But no matter what happens with Livesay, there are a dozen anglers separated by only 30 points around that qualifying number — from 37th-place Carl Jocumsen of Australia with 411 points to 48th-place Bill Lowen of Indiana with 381 points.
That also doesn’t preclude anglers above or below those rankings from making dramatic rises or falls in the last two tournaments of the year. Even this late in the season there are significant movements in the AOY standings after every event. Wisconsin rookie Jay Przekurat made a big move after his win at St. Lawrence, jumping from 36th to 20th in the AOY standings. Fellow Elite Series rookie Joseph Webster of Alabama experienced the other side of the coin, dropping from 29th to 47th after his 88th-place finish at St. Lawrence.
The Elite Series field takes to the water again August 18-21 at the Guaranteed Rate Bassmaster Elite at Lake Oahe in South Dakota.
Palaniuk asked a young fan for help
Courtesy of Alan McGuckin - Dynamic Sponsorships
There’s a good chance 15-year old Preston Bartley of North Gower, Ontario is still shaking following a lifetime memory made possible by Brandon Palaniuk’s perceptive heart at the Bassmaster Elite on the St. Lawrence River.
The teenager who labels Palaniuk his favorite angler, was standing with his loving parents in a crowd of a couple dozen fans near the dock when the longtime Yamaha pro entered the harbor to sack-up yet another 20-pound limit of St. Lawrence smallies.
Most folks didn’t notice, but Palaniuk seemed to be stalling just a tad, but only because he was scanning the crowd, and looking to make a young angler’s day.
“I need a kid to help me bag these fish,” said Palaniuk to the crowd. Then quickly singled out Bartley to climb on to his Skeeter.
The Idaho pro was sure to tell the teen to close the bag after each fish was dropped-in, knowing how smallies love to jump, and based on the fact his admirable kindness nearly backfired earlier this year at Santee Cooper when a big bass nearly jumped back in the lake as a youngster helped him load his catch.
Sacked-up successfully with no escapees, Palaniuk toted his catch to the holding tanks, while Bartley stood next to his parents visibly shaken in a real good way.
“I just love Brandon’s social media content, and you can tell he’s an awesome human, and super approachable. Plus, I caught a 6-pound smallmouth last year on one of his X-Zone Finesse Slammer baits!” grins Gower.
Palaniuk says it’s not possible to involve a young fan every single time he loads up a limit, but whenever the situation fits, he makes a concerted effort to do so.
“It’s something I’ve tried to do for a couple seasons now, and hey, I do need help loading my fish, and I know how much it might mean to a kid, so everybody wins,” says the always thoughtful pro, and brand new dad.
Sure enough, everybody won. The Bartleys, who are longtime B.A.S.S. members, drove nearly two hours to take-in their first ever Bassmaster weigh-in, and thanks to Brandon Palaniuk’skind heart, it’s absolutely one they’ll never forget.
Wilkinson Wins Phoenix Bass Fishing League Event on the Ohio River
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Boater Chris Wilkinson of Farmersburg, Indiana, and Strike-King co-angler Joshua Guthrie of Athens, Ohio.
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| Ohio’s Guthrie Tops Strike King Co-Angler Division
MAYSVILLE, Ky. (July 25, 2022) – Boater Chris Wilkinson of Farmersburg, Indiana, caught five bass Saturday weighing 8 pounds, 2 ounces, to win the MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine on the Ohio River. The tournament was the third event for the Bass Fishing League Buckeye Division. Wilkinson earned $4,199 for his victory. Wilkinson, who notched his eighth career BFL victory - with his last coming last month on the Ohio River out of Tanners Creek - said this event was only his third time to ever fish the Ohio River. “I had heard the (Maysville) pool could fish really tough,” Wilkinson said. “And it sounds a little crazy, but I like it when the fishing is tough like that. “I started out in the back of a creek and caught two keepers and then moved out toward the mouth of the creek and caught one more,” Wilkinson added. “I fished the whole tournament in creeks, with the exception of my last fish, which I caught in the main river.” Wilkinson said he caught almost all of his fish on a Texas-rigged, gill-colored Hog Snatcher Baits tube. Wilkinson targeted bass holding on wood in less than a foot of water. “I caught 10 keepers during the day,” Wilkinson said. “I didn’t really upgrade a whole lot. I was due in at 2:20, and at 2:16 I culled my last fish. That was definitely the one that gave me enough to win. “I’ve seen six pounds win there, and I’ve seen seven pounds win there, and I had right at eight pounds, but yeah, it surprised me I won,” Wilkinson added. The top 10 boaters finished the tournament in: 1st: Chris Wilkinson, Farmersburg, Ind., five bass, 8-2, $4,199 Complete results can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.
The top 10 Strike King co-anglers were: 1st: Joshua Guthrie, Athens, Ohio, four bass, 5-11, $2,100 Whitehead caught the largest bass in the Co-angler Division, a fish weighing in at 3 pounds, 10 ounces. The catch earned him the day’s Berkley Big Bass Co-angler award of $292. After three events, Dave Fricke of Hamilton, Ohio, leads the Bass Fishing League Buckeye Division Boater Angler of the Year (AOY) race with 730 points, while Jacob Alltop of Lewistown, Ohio, leads the Strike King Co-Angler Division AOY race with 711 points. The top 45 boaters and co-anglers in the region based on point standings, along with the five winners in each qualifying event, will be entered in the Oct. 20-22 Bass Fishing League Regional Championship on the James River in Richmond, Virginia. Boaters will compete for a top award of $60,000, including a new Phoenix 819 Pro with a 200-horsepower Mercury outboard and $10,000, while co-anglers will fish for a new Phoenix 819 Pro with a 200-horsepower Mercury outboard. The 2022 Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine is a 24-division circuit devoted to weekend anglers, with 128 tournaments throughout the season, five qualifying events in each division. The top 45 boaters and Strike King co-anglers from each division, along with the five winners of the qualifying events, will advance to one of six Regional Championships where they are competing to finish in the top six, which then qualifies them for one of the longest-running championships in all of competitive bass fishing – the Phoenix Bass Fishing League All-American. The top 45 boaters and Strike King co-anglers plus tournament winners from each Phoenix Bass Fishing League division will also earn priority entry into the MLF Toyota Series, the pathway to the MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit and ultimately the MLF Bass Pro Tour. Proud sponsors of the 2022 MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine include: 4WP, 13 Fishing, Abu Garcia, AFTCO, A.R.E. Truck Caps, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, Black Rifle Coffee, E3, Epic Baits, Favorite Fishing, Gary Yamamoto Baits, General Tire, Lew’s, Lowrance, Lucas Oil, Mercury, Mossy Oak, Onyx, Phoenix, Polaris, Power-Pole, Revital Outdoors, Strike King, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, Wiley X, YETI and Yo-Zuri. For complete details and updated tournament information, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular Bass Fishing League updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF5’s social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. |
McCormick Making Memories and Building Momentum
Courtesy of Luke Stoner - Dynamic Sponsorships
Photos courtesy of Tristan McCormick
Tristan McCormick, the 2021 Bassmaster College Series Bracket Champion, will be the first to tell you he wasn’t overly happy with his performances in the first few Bassmaster Opens he competed in this year after being college fishing’s representative in the 2022 Bassmaster Classic on Lake Hartwell.
The Bethel University standout struggled to get in a groove during the first part of 2022, but fortunately McCormick is feeling the good mojo of momentum after posting back-to-back strong finishes in his last two tournaments; a Toyota Series event on the Potomac River where he finished 5th, and a 13th place finish in the Northern Bassmaster Open on Lake Oneida, missing the top-10 cut by mere ounces.
When questioned why a 23-year-old from central Tennessee was proving to be a force to be reckoned with on northern fisheries, McCormick offered two thoughts.
“I’ve kind of shot myself in the foot points wise with the (Bassmaster) Opens so I practiced for Oneida completely different,” McCormick admitted. “I practiced to win. I didn’t even think about points during practice on Oneida, and that’s going to be my goal in every remaining Open on the schedule.
“On top of that, both fisheries are places I was comfortable at, even though they are a full day’s drive away from my doorstep. Using my electronics and fishing grass is my favorite thing to do. Last summer I spent over two months in New York and the northeast trying to learn these northern fisheries and become better at catching smallmouth. Hopefully that decision continues to pay off.”
While I have no doubt McCormick is on point with his assessment of these recent finishes, I have another hypothesis to add to the conversation. It seems McCormick’s luck has changed since he landed the best catch of his life.
On June 18th, in front of their family and closest friends, McCormick dropped to one knee on the front deck of his Bethel University wrapped Nitro and asked his longtime girlfriend Elle to marry him. The two have been dating for six years, and McCormick has dreamed of popping the question on the Cumberland River in front of Elle’s uncles’ house since laying eyes on the magical spot over two years ago.
“I’ve known Elle was the one I wanted to marry since we starteddating, but the last couple years have just further cemented it,” McCormick said with a smile. “It takes a special person to deal with the hectic travel and lifestyle of an aspiring professional bass fisherman. Elle loves to fish, loves the outdoors, and takes my schedule in stride. I really don’t know what I would do without her support. June 18th was the best day of my life.”
Talk about a lasting memory and making the most out of his year as the reigning college fishing champ. Even if Tristan failedto catch a bass the rest of his 2022 season, there are plenty of reasons to chalk this year up as a massive success.
But McCormick has no intention of letting off the gas now. With nearly half of the Bassmaster Opens schedule left, he’s going toadd to the 23,000 miles he’s already put on the all-new 2022 Toyota Tundra he’s driving for the year as he keeps the pedal mashed in pursuit of his dreams.
Bass Mafia Unveils Rebranding, New Products at ICAST
Bass Mafia heads proudly and confidently into ICAST 2022 bolstering a brand-new logo and identity along with several new spectacularly engineered products. Since being acquired by House of Outdoors in October 2021, the team has continued its excitement and motivation to bring the best tackle storage solutions on the market to the most elite anglers. This time, with a fresh new logo and refinement of its product line.
“Bass Mafia set the standard for premium-tier tackle storage upon the brand’s inception and has continued to do so ever since. We felt that a refined brand look (including a new custom logo) would help elevate the brand’s marketing approach and give its consumers an edgy, yet first-class feel,” remarked Andy Baumbach, Director of Marketing. “The Bass Mafia brand resonates so well with the competitive angler that it’s easy to keep the market excited about the brand and products. We know this new branding will continue to fuel the fire.”, stated Baumbach.
The flagship series of tackle storage, bolsters an improved, reimagined take on its Coffin line of tackle boxes. “Along with the application of the new branding, we’ve made several improvements to the functionality of our Coffin series that I think anglers will appreciate.”, stated Isaac Payne, Director of Innovation & Design at House of Outdoors. “We’ve altered the hinges so the lid opens completely to 180° and created a very solid single latch design for these boxes. The lids and bases have been refined slightly so the boxes will nest and stack perfectly with each other and have kept the rugged industrial look that anglers love. We’ve also added rubber anti-skid feet to the bases to prevent sliding around on the deck of your boat.”
Bass Mafia is making other improvements to its legacy products as well, including fan favorites like the Money Bag – the first heavy-duty soft bag on the market. “There’s so much runway with this brand that we haven’t even scratched the surface. We’re excited about establishing this new brand language while improving long-standing industry favorites and venturing into new product categories.”, noted Trey Epich, SVP of Product. “There’s a lot on its way from Bass Mafia and we’re excited to unveil it, you’re going to want to keep your eyes peeled this year.”
Record Breaking Rookie Update!
While at ICAST DX Catches up with recent Bassmaster Elite Series Rookie Jay Przekurat on his Rookie win and his whirlwind year!
First Time Exhibitor Wins Best of Show at ICAST
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Major League Fishing Unveils General Tire Team Series Draft Results
Three-Man Teams Set to Compete for $300,000 Top Prize This Fall, Episodes Premiere in January on Outdoor Channel
ORLANDO, Fla. (July 21, 2022) – Major League Fishing (MLF), the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, announced today the results of the inaugural General Tire Team Series Draft at a live press event at the International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades (ICAST).
The General Tire Team Series will succeed the current MLF Cup events – following 11 highly successful seasons on the Outdoor Channel – and will showcase the 80 anglers that compete on the Bass Pro Tour, joined by the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit TITLE champion, competing as three-man teams across four events for hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash payouts.
The inaugural Team Series Draft took place on June 1, in Spring City, Tennessee, where the top 27 Bass Pro Tour anglers – based on 2021 Angler of the Year (AOY) point standings – selected two additional Bass Pro Tour anglers to create 27 three-man teams that will compete over the three qualifying events.
Team members will be in constant communication with their teammates during competition, via wireless earpieces, allowing them to work together to develop real-time strategies and adapt on the water to create an exciting new format never before seen on television.
Each qualifying event will feature nine teams, divided into three groups. Each group competition will feature three teams competing over two days to accumulate the highest total two-day weight. The group winners – three teams from each qualifying event – will advance to the General Tire Team Series Championship, which will showcase the nine winning teams competing for a top prize of $300,000.
“We’re incredibly excited to launch the General Tire Team Series following our extremely successful pilot episode that aired earlier this year, and reveal the team selections from the inaugural draft,” said Jim Wilburn, MLF President & CEO. “We’re confident that the unique partnerships throughout the field will result in some extraordinary matchups and create some exhilarating television for our anglers and fans alike.”
Following traditional MLF Cup event protocols, Team Series anglers will not be told the host destination until two weeks prior to each event and will only discover which fishery they are competing on after arriving at the boat ramp the morning of competition.
MLF announced filming dates for the 2022 Team Series in an earlier release, however the events will be shot in the dark, with the location of the fisheries kept private until the episodes premiere in January 2023 on the Outdoor Channel.
General Tire Team Series Draft Results:
CAPTAIN: Mark Rose, PICK 1: Jordan Lee, PICK 28: Luke Clausen
CAPTAIN: Alton Jones, Sr., PICK 2: Edwin Evers, PICK 29: John Murray
CAPTAIN: James Elam, PICK 3: Brent Chapman, PICK 30: Jonathon VanDam
CAPTAIN: Josh Bertrand, PICK 4: Andy Morgan, PICK 31: Brandon Coulter
CAPTAIN: Adrian Avena, PICK 5: Mark Daniels, Jr., PICK 32: Randy Howell
CAPTAIN: Dustin Connell, PICK 6: Cole Floyd, PICK 33: Fred Roumbanis
CAPTAIN: Andy Montgomery, PICK 7: Cody Meyer, PICK 34: James Watson
CAPTAIN: David Dudley, PICK 8: Zack Birge, PICK 35: Clabion Johns
CAPTAIN: Shin Fukae, PICK 9: Fletcher Shryock, PICK 36: Marty Robinson
CAPTAIN: Greg Vinson, PICK 10: Bradley Roy, PICK 37: Ryan Salzman
CAPTAIN: Kevin VanDam, PICK 11: Todd Faircloth, PICK 38: David Walker
CAPTAIN: Takahiro Omori, PICK 12: Casey Ashley, PICK 39: Dean Rojas
CAPTAIN: Bryan Thrift, PICK 13: Anthony Gagliardi, PICK 40: Terry Scroggins
CAPTAIN: Jesse Wiggins, PICK 14: Matt Lee, PICK 41: Dave Lefebre
CAPTAIN: Wesley Strader, PICK 15: Scott Suggs, PICK 42: Mike McClelland
CAPTAIN: Mark Davis, PICK 16: Gary Klein, PICK 43: Cliff Pace
CAPTAIN: Skeet Reese, PICK 17: Jeremy Lawyer, PICK 44: Shaw Grigsby
CAPTAIN: Bobby Lane, PICK 18: Chris Lane, PICK 45: Jimmy Washam
CAPTAIN: Jeff Sprague, PICK 19: Randall Tharp, PICK 46: Cliff Crochet
CAPTAIN: Gerald Spohrer, PICK 20: Dakota Ebare, PICK 47: Ish Monroe
CAPTAIN: Alton Jones, Jr., PICK 21: Britt Myers, PICK 48: Roy Hawk
CAPTAIN: Stephen Browning, PICK 22: Jeff Kriet, PICK 49: Timmy Horton
CAPTAIN: Justin Lucas, PICK 23: Jared Lintner, PICK 50: Boyd Duckett
CAPTAIN: Michael Neal, PICK 24: Russ Lane, PICK 51: Paul Elias
CAPTAIN: Brent Ehrler, PICK 25: Brett Hite, PICK 52: Tommy Biffle
CAPTAIN: Ott DeFoe, PICK 26: Keith Poche, PICK 53: Kelly Jordon
CAPTAIN: Jacob Wheeler, PICK 27: Dylan Hays, PICK 54: Jason Lambert
Link to General Tire Team Series Graphic
Link to FREE full episode – General Tire Team Invitational on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV)
Proud sponsors of the MLF General Tire Team Series include: Abu Garcia, B&W Hitches, Barbasol, Bass Cat Boats, Bass Pro Shops, Berkley, Builders FirstSource, C-MAP, Coasta, Crockett Creek Beef Jerky, Epic Baits, Favorite Fishing, Ferguson, General Tire, Knighten Industries, Kubota, Lew’s, Lowrance, Lucas Oil, Mercury, Mossy Oak, Onyx, Optima Batteries, Phoenix Boats, Plano, Power-Pole, Rapala Baits, Sqwincher, Smokey Mountain Herbal Snuff, Sonic, Star Brite, Strike King, T-H Marine, Toyota, USAA and YETI.
For complete details and updated information on Major League Fishing and the MLF General Tire Team Series events, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF’s social media outlets at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
Dakota Lithium Selected As The Official Lithium Battery Of Bassmaster, Inks Multiyear Deal As Bassmaster Premier Sponsor
July 21, 2022
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Dakota Lithium, a U.S. battery manufacturer founded in 2008, has signed a three-year partnership with B.A.S.S. as a premier sponsor of the Bassmaster Tournament Trail and the Official Lithium Battery of Bassmaster through 2025.
“Here at Dakota Lithium, we are proud to be partnering with Bassmaster as the first Official Lithium Battery. Dakota Lithium is the top battery choice of professional anglers. Partnering with the leading professional fishing tournament series just made sense. We are looking forward to joining the elite brands that are supporting the future of fishing,” said Dakota Lithium CEO Andrew A. Jay.
Dakota Lithium already works with multiple current Bassmaster Elite Series pro anglers. Two-time Bassmaster Classic champion Hank Cherry, Greg DiPalma, Austin Felix, Marc Frazier, Brock Mosley, Chad Pipkens, Tyler Rivet, Matt Robertson and Kyle Welcher are all part of the Dakota Lithium pro staff.
“I was the first Bassmaster Elite angler to use Dakota Lithium batteries and have been on the team from the beginning,” said Mosley, who has notched five Top 10 Elite finishes in the past two seasons. “It is truly amazing to see how far they have come and to see them sponsor the 2023 Bassmaster season.”
Fellow Elite pro Matt Robertson echoed that enthusiasm for the partnership.
“When you combine the best lithium battery and the best fishing organization, you get Dakota Lithium and Bassmaster,” said Robertson, who has claimed two Top 10s this season. “Like Bassmaster, Dakota Lithium is the highest quality, longest lasting battery on the market. Nothing makes more sense than Dakota Lithium becoming the first Official Lithium Battery of Bassmaster.”
Dakota Lithium will be a premier sponsor for the Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk, Bassmaster Elite Series, St. Croix Bassmaster Opens Series presented by Mossy Oak Fishing, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Abu Garcia Bassmaster High School Series presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors, Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Team Championship and the grass-roots TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation regional and championship tournaments.
In addition to their tournament sponsorship, Dakota Lithium will be highlighted during Bassmaster LIVE, which is streamed on Bassmaster.com and broadcast Saturday and Sunday mornings on the FOX Sports platforms, and will enjoy exposure in Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times magazines and across various industry-leading social media platforms.
Lithium batteries have become an industry standard for competitive fishing, providing twice the usable power at half the weight of traditional batteries. In a quickly growing market, Dakota Lithium has become the brand of choice for professional athletes, primarily due to Dakota Lithium’s performance, reliability, lifespan and best-in-class 11-year warranty.
“This new partnership with Bassmaster and Dakota Lithium shows how Dakota Lithium has become the go-to battery in the marine industry, and partnering with Bassmaster is the next step in continuing that dominance,” said Craig Storms, Dakota Lithium national sales representative and pro staff manager.
“We are proud to welcome Dakota Lithium as a new premier partner and look forward to connecting them with anglers and Bassmaster fans,” said B.A.S.S. CEO Chase Anderson. “Dakota Lithium already works alongside so many anglers at all levels, and we are excited to introduce their long-lasting batteries to our passionate fans over the next several years.”
ICAST Announces 30 New Product Showcase “Best of Category” Winners for 2022
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Spinnerbaits the Pros Use by SPRO®
Kennesaw, GA, Flash, action and vibration are a deadly combination when it comes to triggering a bass to bite. Few lures can cover water and grab a fish’s attention like a spinnerbait.
The pros at SPRO® recognize the deadly combination of flashing blades and thumping vibration for bass anglers and have developed spinnerbait offerings that are ready for the next strike.
SPRO Blade Spinnerbait
The SPRO Blade spinnerbait is constructed with versatility at center stage for fishing through submerged grass and vegetative cover. Throw it along weed bed edges, across grass mats, or over open water points, flats and channels that hold fish.
Built on industry-leading Gamakatsu nano alpha coated hooks, anglers can depend on clean hookups and fish fighting durability when fishing the SPRO Blade.
The Blade spinnerbait is ideal for clear or stained water and is available in eye-catching colors, designed with the SPRO mean eye to help trigger predator strikes. Gold and nickel-plated willow blades run on smooth ball bearing swivels, flashing effortlessly on the retrieve.
SPRO Blade Features:
- Flashy Willow Blades
- 4/0 Gamakatsu Nano Alpha Coated Hooks
- Ball Bearing Swivels
- Head Shape Comes Through Grass & Cover
- Flashy Gold, Nickel, and Painted Blades with blade sizes printed on blades
- SPRO Mean Eye
- Great for Clear or Lightly Stained Water
- MSRP $11.49
SPRO Thumper Spinnerbait
SPRO’s Thumper spinnerbait drives bass crazy by replicating forage fish vibrations in the water, utilizing hard-thumping Colorado and Indiana blades. Made with sticky sharp Gamakatsu Nano Alpha coated hooks. The Thumper is built with serious anglers in mind.
The SPRO Thumper bait head is designed to be fished around hard-hitting covers like rocks and wood, making it capable of fishing where the big ones hide. The custom gold and nickel-plated blades are printed with blade sizes and rotate on smooth ball-bearing swivels.
SPRO Thumper Features:
- Hard Thumping Colorado & Indiana Blades
- 4/0 Gamakatsu Nano Alpha Coated Hooks
- Ball Bearing Swivels
- Head Shape Made for Hitting Hard Cover like Rock & Timber
- Flashy Gold, Nickel, and Painted Blades with blade sizes printed in blades
- SPRO Mean Eye
- Great for Stained of Murky Water
- MSRP $5.64
SPRO Squealer
The SPRO Squealer Buzzbait comes equipped with Gamakatsu Nano Alpha Coated hooks for durability and practical functionality. Featuring the SPRO Mean Eye head and custom blade, the SPRO Squealer gets up quickly and makes a unique squealing sound.
Squealer Features:
- Combination of Blade and Head Shape causes Blade to get up Quickly
- 4/0 Gamakatsu Nano Alpha Coated Hooks
- Unique Blade that Makes a Squealing Sound
- SPRO Mean Eye
- 2 Sizes: 3/8 and 1/2
- MSRP $10.99
Plano’s EDGE Frog Box wins Award for Best of Tackle Storage at ICAST
Fighting through tough competition for tackle storage, Plano’s innovative Edge Frog Box wins the award for ‘Best of Tackle Storage’ at ICAST 2022.
ORLANDO, Fla. (July 20, 2022) – Plano, known for their out of the box thinking and creativity, brought innovation and design to the ICAST New Product Showcase to win ICAST’s Best in Category for Tackle Storage with their EDGE Frog Box. Though many great products were entered into the category, Plano’s ability to solve a problem for bass anglers earned this award.
“Bass anglers needed a solution to keep their expensive frog baits in top shape on and off the water. We did a lot of research to understand what anglers wanted and then developed a product that would fit their needs.” said Charlie Davis, Plano Director of Category, Storage.
The EDGE Frog Box solves the problem of frog-loving bass anglers by providing a safe and dry box that holds up to 50 frog baits, keeps the baits dry, and protects the legs so frog baits survive more than one season.
To learn more about the Plano EDGE Frog Box and other gear from Plano, please click here.
Mossy Oak and Major League Fishing Announce New Licensing Agreement to Showcase MLF Merchandise and Apparel
ORLANDO, Fla. (July 20, 2022) – Mossy Oak, the leading branded camouflage and outdoor lifestyle company, announced an agreement with the Major League Fishing (MLF) wherein Mossy Oak will manage all future merchandise licensing efforts for MLF. In collaboration with MLF, Mossy Oak will work with a variety of partners within the retail space to produce MLF branded apparel and related products. Mossy Oak has been a partner with MLF since 2018 and is the league’s exclusive fishing pattern.
“At Mossy Oak, we are so appreciative and honored with our industry leading partnerships. Our best of the best positioning with national branded licensees and retailers and our top-tier tournament trail pro team led by Kevin VanDam cements our commitment to the world of fishing! As we look to further that commitment our new partnership with Major League Fishing takes it to a whole new level,” said Chris Paradise, Sr. Vice President of Mossy Oak. “Not only is Mossy Oak the Official Exclusive Pattern for MLF, we are now the worldwide licensing activation partner for all MLF brands! We cannot be more excited for what we have in store for our fishing community and the collaboration between Mossy Oak and Major League Fishing.”
"This partnership with Mossy Oak aligns with our objective to grow the sport of bass fishing,” said Michael Mulone, MLF Vice President of Strategic Business Planning. “Mossy Oak is a renowned lifestyle brand that understands the unique needs of anglers and outdoorsmen and women. The team at Mossy Oak has the experience and resources for the procurement and distribution of world-class gear and apparel. Through our partnership with Mossy Oak and new licensees, we are looking forward to introducing our brand and the sport of bass fishing to an even broader audience.”
At REDCREST, the Bass Pro Tour Championship event held in Tulsa this past March, apparel featuring the Mossy Oak fishing pattern and the MLF logo sold out on the first day of the Outdoor Sports Expo.
The Mossy Oak brand will remain prominently showcased across numerous MLF media platforms, including the MLF General Tire Team Series and the Bass Pro Tour Heavy Hitters All-Star event, at MajorLeagueFishing.com, MLF Bass Fishing Magazine and the “MLF NOW!” livestream, which broadcasts during every Bass Pro Tour and Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit event.
For more information about MLF, their tournaments and sponsors, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. To learn more about Mossy Oak, visit MossyOak.com.
Gamakatsu® G-Shield Tungsten Weights Add Japanese Quality to Casting, Pitching and Flipping
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Bassmaster Elite Brotherhood Rescues Downey On Championship Sunday At St. Lawrence River
Bassmaster Elite Series anglers Matt Robertson and Lee Livesay, who did not make the final day cut, exchange boats with fellow pro Bob Downey (right) during Championship Sunday at last weekend's Guaranteed Rate Bassmaster Elite at the St. Lawrence River.
Photo by Shane Durrance/B.A.S.S.
July 20, 2022
CLAYTON, N.Y. — Bassmaster Elite Series pros Lee Livesay of Longview, Texas, and Matt Robertson of Kuttawa, Ky., were at the weigh-in venue waiting for their time to appear on the Bassmaster LIVE Mix broadcast when they heard that fellow angler Bob Downey’s boat was malfunctioning during Championship Sunday of last weekend’s Guaranteed Rate Bassmaster Elite at the St. Lawrence River.
Livesay and Robertson, who did not make the Championship Sunday cut, jumped at the chance to help a fellow competitor. They left to pick up Livesay’s boat, filled it with gas, bought ice and some snacks and launched to go find Downey, who hails from Detroit Lakes, Minn. Livesay noted that he and Downey are not particularly close friends. In fact, Livesay didn’t even have Downey’s phone number. But as a fellow Elite Series competitor, that’s plenty close enough.
“I’d do that for anybody,” Livesay said. “And anybody would do that for any one of us.”
Swapping boats in the middle of a competition day is not a simple task. Livesay had to delete the waypoints on his Humminbird graphs. Downey had to grab just enough tackle that he needed to finish the day. They had to transfer Downey’s fish into Livesay’s livewells, where cool, iced water awaited them.
“We both had Humminbirds, so that was good,” Livesay said. “We put one of his Humminbirds in my boat.”
Downey’s outboard motor wasn’t completely disabled. It just wouldn’t get his boat up on plane.
“We stayed close just in case either boat had a problem,” Robertson said.
“It didn’t surprise me,” Downey said. “Lee and Matt are awesome dudes, good character guys. It didn’t surprise me at all that they did it, and I’m thankful they did.”
Downey started the day in second place, only 2 pounds, 15 ounces behind leader and eventual tournament winner Jay Przekurat. But his day had gone south long before his outboard malfunctioned. Downey had been fishing in the St. Lawrence River all week, and he wasn’t able to catch them there Sunday. He finished 10th with a four-day total of 91-07, but he was able to weigh in a limit of fish.
“I had some fish when they got there with Lee’s boat,” Downey said. “I was able to catch some more and get back for the weigh-in. I was happy to have a 17-pound limit and some fish to weigh on Championship Sunday.”
Downey, Robertson, Livesay and the rest of the Elite Series field will take to the water again August 18-21 for the Guaranteed Rate Bassmaster Elite at Lake Oahe in South Dakota.
Fenwick Elite Series Rods
New Fenwick Elite rod series created for multispecies applications excels in sensitivity and performance.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (July 20, 2022) – For over 50 years, the Fenwick name has been a legend among anglers all over the world with sensitivity being the name of the game since day one. The new Fenwick Elite rod family lives up to that legacy featuring seven species-specific rod models and a total of 49 unique rod actions designed to excel regardless of the species targeted.
Featuring Powerlux 200 resin and 30-ton graphite, the Elite rods are a combination of lightweight feel and sensitivity. Each model features proven Fenwick actions that pair perfectly with popular techniques for catching a variety of fish. Combined with the advanced resin technology, other key features include premium high-quality cork, an ergonomic reel seat, Titanium guides with zirconia inserts, and a limited lifetime warranty.
The Elite series rods offer stronger, more durable rods without compromising the sensitivity and lightness that anglers have come to expect from Fenwick. Every rod series is constructed out of the most-effective and highest grade materials suited for each application for an overall excellent performing series of rods.
Key Features
• 30-ton graphite with Powerlux 200
• Bass crankbait models feature S-glass with spiral carbon core
• Ergonomic Fenwick designed reel seat (Fuji on Predator rods)
• Premium grade cork handles (cork split grip on Bass)
• Patent pending ferrule locking mechanism on Predator rods
• Titanium guides with zirconia Inserts
• Limited Lifetime Warranty
Models Include:
Elite Light Finesse: 4-8 UL • 5-3 UL (2-piece) • 5-8 UL (2-piece) • 6-3 L • 6-6 UL (2-piece) • 6-9 L
MSRP: $139.95
Elite Walleye Casting: 7-0 M • 7-6 M
MSRP: $169.95-$189.95
Elite Walleye Spinning: 5-9 M • 6-2 M • 6-2 ML • 6-6 ML • 6-6 M • 6-6 M (2 piece) • 6-9 ML • 6-9 ML (2-piece) • 6-9 M • 7-0 M • 7-0 ML • 7-2 M • 7-2 M (2-piece) • 7-2 MH • 7-4 ML
MSRP: $169.95 – $189.95
Elite Bass Casting: 6-10 ML • 7-0 M • 7-0 MH • 7-3 MH • 7-3 H • 7-6 MH • 7-6 H • 7-9 H • 7-11 XH
MSRP: $169.95 – $189.95
Elite Bass Spinning: 6-9 M • 6-9 M (2-piece) • 6-10 ML • 7-0 M • 7-0 M (2-piece) • 7-0 MH • 7-0 MH (2-piece)
MSRP: $169.95
Elite Bass Cranking: 7-0 M • 7-0 MH • 7-3 MH • 7-8 H
MSRP: $169.95
Elite Predator: 7-9 MH (2-piece) • 8-0 H (2-piece) • 8-6 H (2-piece) • 8-6 XH (2-piece) • 9-0 XH (2-piece) • 10-0 XXH (2-piece)
MSRP: $149.95 – $269.95
Available: July 2022
To learn more about Fenwick, click here.
Strike King Launches Two New Worms the Put More Fish in the Boat in 2022
Columbia, S.C. – July 20, 2022 –Never satisfied with last year’s success, Strike King hits the new year with two exciting additions to their legendary worm line up. Introducing the Filler Worm and the Zeus Worm.
First on the list, the next generation of finesse fishing has arrived. The team at Strike King is pleased to introduce the new Filler Worm, the soft plastic drop shot worm finesse fans have been asking for. Working with Strike King Pro and finesse legend Mark Zona, Strike King has crafted the Filler Worm with an extra wide, extra durable head, for withstanding hard fishing and multiple catches without tearing. “No more losing a worm after one solid hookset,” offered the Michigan pro. “With the Filler Worm’s wide noggin, Strike King has managed to really impact the strength and integrity of the plastic, a feature that tournament competitors will appreciate.”
A key feature of the Filler Worm is the Open Pour Technology that allows Strike King to develop realistic color patterns for a unique display. With Open Pour Technology, the Filler Worm offers 15 striking, vibrant blends that mimic forage and entice fish. For fishing in clear water, Zona favors Watermelon Red Flake and Green Pumpkin for the most natural presentation, while in stained water he often switches to Morning Dawn or Firecrawler for greater visibility.
Strike King’s enhanced pouring techniques also add additional fishing benefits for finicky fish and lethargic bites. Zona explains: “Open Pour Technology allows us to insert a layer of salt-impregnated plastic along the base of the Filler Worm to keep it in an upright position on a drop shot rig. This gives the Filler Worm a lifelike presentation and offers a little extra flavor to keep a fish holding on.”
Next on the 2022 line-up, Strike King is pleased to introduce what is sure to become a must-have for ledge fishermen and deep structure enthusiasts, the Zeus Worm. Ready for a battle, the Zeus Worm hits the ledges with 9.5-inches of fury and enough girth to make quite a scene in heavy cover. The key feature of the big worm is the ribbon tail design, emitting a powerful action that is truly hard to ignore. This worm is designed to excel on deep underwater ledges when you often need a bigger profile to get fish to react.
The Zeus pairs great with a 4/0 and 5/0 hook and excels at Carolina Rigging and Texas Rigging. This worm fits perfectly on the business end of the Mag Jig Head, with its free-swinging Owner Twistlock, allowing the giant worm to give off plenty of life-like action.
For anglers who fish bigger profile worms but need to downsize a notch or two, the Zeus is marked off to be easily paired down to a 7-inch worm. This gives anglers the option of offering a slightly shorter worm with the same great action as the bait has out-of-the-package. Like a number of worms in the Strike King line-up, the Zeus Worm is engineered with the premium Perfect Plastics system, offering exceptional, striking color blends and the famous Strike King coffee scent that keeps fish holding on. With 12 colors to choose from and a MSRP of $6.99 you probably all of them!
Whether you are power fishing for aggressive feeders or finessing to coax a bite, Strike King has you covered. When you hit the water in 2022, make sure you have the new Strike King Filler and the Zeus Worm tied on.
Strike King completes the avid angler’s tackle box with four new additions to the terminal tackle line-up
Columbia, S.C. – July 20, 2022 – Strike King, the creator of some of the most essential tackle designs of the last half century, is proud to announce five new terminal tackle products that will be trusted additions for avid anglers in 2022. Introducing the Strike King Tour Grade Mini-Mag Worm Jig Head, and the Tour Grade Crackin’ Tube Jig Head, the Bitsy Crackin’ Tube Jig Head, the Tour Grade Tugnsten Neko Weight and the Strike King Tour Grade Weight Stop.
The Tour Grade Mini-Mag Worm Jig Head follows the success of its bigger cousin, the Mag Jig Head, which has gained notoriety since its 2017 release as a staple for serious soft plastics anglers. The key for the Mini-Mag’s preeminence on the water is the premium-grade Owner Twistlock Spring that holds bait firmly in place and protects the integrity of the plastic throughout long hours of fishing in the heaviest of cover. Unlike other jig heads with a twist lock, the Strike King Mini-Mag’s Locking Spring swings freely, allowing a worm or creature bait to move freely during retrieve, resulting in superior action, and just as critical, increased hook penetration during a hookset. Anglers who pay a premium for a tour grade Strike King jig head expect to land more fish and achieve a more natural presentation. That is what you get with the new Mini Mag. The cobra-style nose of the Mini-Mag Jig Head, made popular by Strike King’s successful Structure Jig, has proven to be highly effective at maneuvering the bait through heavy cover without constant snags, while maintaining exceptional contact with the bottom. The Mag Jig Head has proven to be a winner for brush pile and ledge fishermen. Now, with the reduced profile and downsized 3/0 hooks, the Mini-Mag brings a little more finesse to a standout jig head. The Mini Mag Jig head comes in 2 colors and 3 sizes with a MSRP of $5.99
Additionally, the Tour Grade Crackin’ Tube Jig Head is a must for anglers who have rediscovered the fish-catching power of the KVD Pro-Model Tube and the Denny Brauer Flip-N-Tube. With its Extra-Wide hook shank, the Crackin’ Tube Jig Head is the ideal tackle for a variety of tube rigging techniques. Key to its success on the water is the teardrop design of the lead head, which places the majority of the weight at the front of the tube. Coupled with its 70-degree horizontal line tie, anglers have a tube that will fall in a smooth, diagonal manner.
Strike King Pro Angler Mark Zona has relied on the Strike King Tube all over the country and considers it to be a consistent performer. “The Strike King Coffee Tube and Tour Grade Crackin’ Tube Jig Head are a deadly combination for Smallmouth, Largemouth and Spots,” the Michigan native said. “It’s a ‘must have’ on the deck of my boat.”
While anglers have traditionally relied on the tube as a finesse lure, Zona and a growing cadre of competitive anglers have found that upsizing the jig head can improve the strike. Zona explains: “This is no longer strictly a finesse bait for me. I have found over and over that a heavier Strike King Crackin’ Tube Jig Head produces a faster rate of fall that will cause a bass to pound this lure.” The Strike King Crackin’ Tube Jig Head is available in six different weights and is equipped with a 3/0 hook, with a MSRP of $4.99
Anglers who depend on the tube to tackle their finesse applications will find the Strike King Tour Grade Bitsy Crackin’ Tube Jig Headto be an essential item on the deck. Like its bulkier cousin, the Bitsy head places the majority of the weight in the front of the tube and features a 70-degree line eye to perfect the strike-enticing fall of the tube. The Bitsy is also available in six different weights, and features a downsized 2/0 hook, ideal for a 2.75 Strike King Fat Coffee Tube. The MSRP for this junior size is $4.99
Strike King is pleased to offer its first Tour Grade Weight Stops, ideal for a host of different applications on the water. Weight Stops are an absolute must for anglers who use sliding lead or tungsten weights when punching vegetation mats or flipping in heavy cover, as they serve an essential role in keeping the weight near the soft plastic. This is a simple and easy application to a soft plastic flipping or punching rig that will actually help put more fish in the boat. Additionally, Carolina Rig enthusiasts have grown fond of the Weight Stop for protecting swivel knots from the friction of a heavy sliding weight, or for eliminating the need for a leader altogether. Strike King’s silicone engineering of the Tour Grade Weight Stops provides exceptional durability and keeps the weight stop firmly in place throughout multiple hours of casting. MSRP is $7.99 for a 54 pack.
Finally, for the finesse fishing enthusiasts, Strike King announces the Tour Grade Neko Weight. Built with tungsten, the Tour Grade Neko Weight is designed for extra durability to provide years of fishing without corrosion. Strike King has engineered the Neko Weight with a pointed, cone-shaped body to be quickly and easily inserted into a plastic worm or other soft plastic. It features a ribbed body to keep the weight securely in place inside the soft plastic for prolonged use and throughout multiple fish catches. Strike King is offering the Tour Grade Neko Weight in four sizes so that anglers have ultimate control over the rate of fall for their finesse soft plastics. MSRP is $5.99 to $6.99
The Tour Grade Terminal Tackle line-up is designed with serious anglers and tournament competitors in mind. For those who depend on the finest equipment to perform at the highest levels, only Strike King will do. Tie one on!
Costa Del Mar Jose PRO
Costa brings next-level performance to its best-selling Jose frame in 2022. Named in honor of the legendary waterman and larger than life personality, Jose Wejebe, this frame builds off the original with SIX PROformance innovations to help anglers manage sweat, reduce fogging and keep their frames locked in place, even when the water gets rough. The Jose PRO celebrates the legacy of the man who broke barriers in the angling community and lived for the thrill of the bite. Fish it Forward with Jose PRO.
MSRP: $264-$284
Millennium Marine’s New Monitor Mounts Will Secure Electronics with Ease
Pearl, Mississippi (XXXX) – There’s no denying that technology and fishing often go hand in hand. While fishing is at the core a primitive activity played out between man and fish, electronic depth finders and fish finders can help anglers tip the odds in their favor – but not without a good sturdy mount to secure the monitors. Millennium Marine is pleased to announce a pair of all-new fully-adjustable monitor mounts.
These monitor mounts are constructed with corrosion-resistant anodized aluminum that stands up to harsh elements. Designed to securely hold monitors at the perfect angle, they offer a wide array of adjustments, including rotation, height and viewing angle. The monitor mounts provide a 180-degree base rotation, a 180-degree tilting riser, and an adjustable telescopic riser from 18” to 24” inches for both the MM-001 and MM-002. In addition, the mounting plate is designed to fit most monitors.
When needing a sturdy, flexible, rugged monitor mount for the marine environment, look no further than Millennium Marine’s all-new MM-001 and MM-002 Monitor Mounts. Both models include stainless-steel hardware and carry a one-year warranty.
MM-001 Single Monitor Mount Features:
- Base rotates 180°
- Riser tilts 180°
- Monitor mount adjusts 350°
- Telescopic riser adjusts 18” to 24”
- Mounting plate is designed to fit most monitors
- One-year warranty
MM-001 Single Monitor Mount Specifications:
- Material: Anodized aluminum with stainless-steel hardware
- Weight: 4.6 pounds
- Size: 12” x 5” x 2.75”
- Model / SKU: MM-001-00
- UPC: 850002711479
- MSRP: $229.99
MM-002 Double Monitor Mount Features:
- Base rotates 180°
- Riser tilts 180°
- Monitor mount adjusts 350°
- Telescopic riser adjusts 18” to 24”
- Mounting plate is designed to fit most monitors
- One-year warranty
MM-002 Double Monitor Mount Specifications:
- Material: Anodized aluminum with stainless-steel hardware
- Weight: 6.4 pounds
- Size: 15.25” x 5.25” x 2.62”
- Model / SKU: MM-002-00
- UPC: 850002711462
- MSRP: $299.99
Huk Hats and Accessories: UV Protection, Comfort & Great Looks
Charleston, SC - Most anglers' protection from the sun is a crucial consideration. Many anglers utilize great performance shirts and pants to protect their arms and legs but often overlook protecting their hands, neck and face. Huk's full line of accessories includes hats, gloves and gaiters with durable UV protection for long days on the water or in the sun. They are the perfect complement to Huk's full line of performance wear.
Huk hats come in styles ranging from trucker caps to straw hats and everything in between. The always-popular trucker hat is available in various colors and graphics. Traditional dad hats, mesh-sided visors, straw hats, bucket hats and boonies offered in a variety of colors and logo combinations round out their collection. Those looking to get the most out of their time on the water while minimizing sun exposure should consider a sun-blocking hat and gaiter.
Guarding the neck against harmful UV radiation is a must on the water. Huk neck gaiters, offered in seven patterns and five solid colors, are built with 90% polyester and 10% spandex for a comfortable fit. They provide UPF 30+ protection and an anti-microbial treatment to stay fresh.
Huk's fingerless sun gloves provide the same UPF 30+ peace of mind with anti-microbial, four-way stretch fabric. The fingerless gloves allow anglers to tie lines without removing their gloves and feature grippy palms to hang on to the rod, the push-pole or the cooler handle.
When the weather is hot, and the action is even hotter, trust Huk performance gear to stay cool, dry and protected on the water.
Huk’s Gunwale Collection Provides Big Performance At A Reasonable Price
Charleston, SC — Ardent anglers don’t think a little rain should get in the way of a day on the water—even if it’s blowing sideways. So the new Gunwale collection from Huk offers easily packable rain gear that keeps the elements at bay without a steep price tag.
Huk’s Gunwale Rainwear collection provides serious performance in the nastiest of conditions. At the heart of each garment is a hardcore, 10k wind and waterproof fabric, so it stands up to the worst of Mother Nature’s wrath but is porous enough to allow interior moisture to escape to the outside of the material. The exterior of the fabric features a durable, water-resistant finish that stands up to driving rain. Like all of Huk’s premium rainwear, the Gunwale collection features fully taped seams to remain wind- and waterproof. An internal liner wicks moisture towards the membrane and away from the body. Combined, all of these layers stop water dead in its tracks.
Each garment in the Gunwale line is constructed with top-of-the-line features to keep anglers dry and fishing longer. The adjustable hood offers excellent visibility but manages to keep rain and spray out of faces during the roughest rides. When the activity peaks, the integrated pit zips help ditch excess heat and keep sweat to a minimum. An elastic waist, waterproof leg zipper and zippered fly give the pants easy on and off accessibility. Storm flaps provide added protection for zippers to help keep gear dry. Best of all, each piece packs into its own pocket for easy storage, ensuring they don’t take up too much space on board.
Anglers trust Huk’s rainwear to keep the elements at bay so they can concentrate on what’s important--fishing. The Gunwale collection offers big performance in an easily stowed package, all at a friendly price.
Gunwale Rain Jacket Features:
- 100% nylon fabric
- 2.5 layer construction
- 10k wind and waterproof construction
- Fully taped seams
- Storm flaps
- Zippered hand pockets
- Pit zips
- Adjustable hood
- Adjustable hem
- Packable pocket
Huk's New Men's A1A Pro Guide Pant Made By the Pros, Available for Everyone
Charleston, SC - Long days on the water call for gear that is up for the adventure, and Huk's new men's A1A Pro Guide pants are designed to withstand anything anglers put them through. With input from guides and avid anglers around the country, the men's A1A Pro Guide pants are packed with serious features for the most challenging days on the water.
"Pants that are tough enough to handle the abuse I put them through and are light enough for wear in the heat didn't exist until now. The men's A1A Pro Guide pants design is the best I have ever seen. They were built with a true fisherman in mind," said Captain Nate, Islamorada, FL.
The men’s A1A Pro Guide pants are designed to be durable without giving up comfort and performance that anglers demand, whether poling a skiff or fighting the tarpon of a lifetime. The pants are made for all-day comfort on the water, constructed of 94% nylon for durability and 6% spandex for stretch and comfort. "The overall durability of these pants is insane. The patch on the side is perfect for poling the skiff when chasing tailing Reds," said Captain Ervin, Charleston, SC. The abrasion-resistant fabric patch is strategically placed on the side of the pants to withstand the wear and tear of long days manning the push pole.
Functional design elements are evident in six feature-rich pocket designs. The pants have cargo and zippered side pockets with drainage grommets allowing anglers to store their tools and keep them dry. Two zippered rear pockets allow for extra security, and two hand pockets for any additional accessories anglers need to carry. The adjustable hem will eliminate your pants from dragging on the boat or at the dock.
The fabric features a durable water-repellent finish, keeping anglers cool and dry. These pants also feature an ever-adjusting waistband for those who enjoy a long lunch break waiting on the tide to turn. Rounding out the men's A1A Pro Guide Pant is 50+ UPF for sun protection, a premium zipper fly front, and a gusseted crotch for mobility. Huk listened to their pros, and these A1A Pro Guide pants are the result.
Men's A1A Pro Guide Pants Features:
- 94% Nylon, 6% Spandex
- Abrasion-resistant fabric side hits to cut wear and tear while poling the flats
- Six pocket design (cargo & zippered side pockets with drainage grommets, two zippered back pockets, two hand pockets)
- Adjustable waistband and hem
- Zippered fly front
- Crotch gusset
- 50+ UPF
- Sizes: SM-3XL
- Colors: Night Owl
- MSRP: $125.00 (3XL + $5)
Introducing the A1A Line - The Most Breathable Fabric in the Line
Charleston, SC – Anglers can stay cool and protect themselves from the sun no matter where they are fishing or boating with the ‘A1A’ line from Huk. Debuted at the 2021 ICAST Show, the A1A line follows Huk’s passion for designing fishing clothing with inspiration, with the concept behind these hoodies coming from Florida’s famous A1A Highway. A1A is associated with Florida’s beach culture, known for some of the most coveted fishing destinations in the world as it stretches along the Atlantic Ocean from Jacksonville south to Key West.
The A1A line can handle all-day wear thanks to its anti-microbial fabric, which helps keep the garment fresher longer, featuring key design elements and Huk's innovative design. Offered with UPF 50+ protection from the sun, the 100% polyester cooling fibers, four-way stretch and perforated fabric provide breathability that will keep anglers and water lovers alike comfortable in the heat both on land and on the water.
The A1A hoodie features a built-in face gaiter to have more sun coverage. In addition, the sleeves allow for a full range of motion while casting. The A1A shirt features two zippered chest pockets. The sleeves can also be rolled up and secured in place with a convenient loop and button. In addition, the shirt sports an integrated interior sunglass wipe.
The men’s A1A 8.5” shorts are a perfect combination of style and comfort. The performance shorts are made from 92% Polyester and 8% Spandex. The blended fabric provides four-way stretch, mobility and sun protection for a full day of water-filled activities. Ideal for both fresh- and saltwater fishing applications, the shorts have all-over perforation for extreme all-over breathability, and they are also quick-drying. The shorts are constructed with an adjustable waistband to make a perfect fit.
Also, there is a full line of hats to complete the look. The A1A Barb U Stretch Back and A1A Rope Huk Performance Stretch hats will be available in Spring 2022, offered in sizes S/M, L/XL, and in three colors – Black, Overcast Grey and Huk Blue. The A1A Sun Hat are offered in one size fits most and in three colors - Black, Oyster and Huk Blue.
The A1A Line will be available in Spring 2022, offered in men’s sizes small through XXXL. It’s time to hit the road – whether it’s the open road of the Florida coast or the nearest lake or river.
A1A Hoodie Features:
- 100% polyester
- Extreme all over breathability
- 4-way stretch
- Built-in face gaiter
- Mesh underarm and back
- UPF 50+
- Full range of motion casting sleeve
- Flatlock stitching
- Colors: Beach Glass, Oyster, White and Blue Fog
- MSRP: $65.00 (3XL + $5)
A1A Woven Shirt Features:
- 92% Polyester, 8% Elastane
- All-Over perforation
- 2 secure chest pockets with mesh-back
- 2 secure patch pockets
- Button Roll Up Sleeves
- Interior eyewear wipe
- UPF 30+
- Colors: Beach Glass, Oyster, White and Blue Fog
- MSRP: $70.00 (3XL + $5)
A1A Shorts Features:
- 92% Polyester, 8% Spandex
- Extreme all over breathability
- 4-way stretch
- 8.5” inseam
- All-Over perforation
- Adjustable waistband
- Colors: Volcanic Ash, Overcast Grey, Silver Blue and New Khaki
- MSRP: $70.00 (3XL + $5)
A1A Barb U Stretch Back Hat Features:
- Back panels laser perforated for maximum ventilation
- Anti-bacterial fabric
- Moisture-wicking 3-layer inner headband
- Taped seams for comfort
- Colors: Black, Overcast Grey and Titanium Blue, Huk Blue
- Sizes: S/M, L/XL
- MSRP: $35.00
A1A Rope Huk Performance Stretch Hat Features:
- Back panels laser perforated for maximum ventilation
- Anti-bacterial fabric
- Moisture-wicking 3-layer inner headband
- Taped seams for comfort
- Colors: Black, Overcast Grey and Titanium Blue
- Sizes: S/M, L/XL
- MSRP: $35.00
A1A Sun Hat Features:
- Extreme sun protection
- Supreme breathability
- Shapeable wire brim
- Adjustable elastic cord
- Colors: Black, Oyster and Huk Blue
- Sizes: One Size
- MSRP: $40.00
Introducing SPRO’s Speed Demon – Its Rapid Action Drives Fish Wild!
Kennesaw, GA The new SPRO® Speed Demon crankbait lives up to its name! Its computer chip lip design creates a tight hard action that generates an eye-catching flash and a distinct vibration that triggers a strike in hungry fish.
The Speed Demon is the brainchild of MLF Angler Dean Rojas. He wanted a crankbait for aggressively fishing intermediate depths, and the ⅜ oz, 55 mm long Speed Demon excels in these conditions. As intended, a fast retrieve generates the hardest action and covers a lot of water – perfect for finding hungry fish. Slowing the Speed Demon retrieve dampens its wobble slightly and is a better tactic for sluggish fish. This versatility makes the Speed demon an indispensable crankbait for serious anglers.
Top anglers like Rojas know the importance of matching the crankbait to the watercolor and light conditions. So, the Speed Demon is available in many colors and realistic patterns to cover all situations.
SPRO crankbaits include super sharp Gamakatsu hooks for a better hook up ratio and deeper penetration. Each Speed Demon 55 with Gamakatsu trebles is ready-to-fish right out of the package.
SPRO’s new Speed Demon is a dynamite crankbait covering lots of water and triggering a bite with its hard and fast action! Competitive and recreational anglers alike need this lure in their tackle box arsenal.
Speed Demon 55 Features:
- Weight: ⅜ oz
- Size: 55 mm
- Hook: #5 Gamakatsu treble hooks
- Depth: 3’-5’
- MSRP: $13.99
SPRO’s Rk Crawler 50DD – A New Smaller Crankbait for Deep Water
Kennesaw, GA The new SPRO® Rk Crawler 50DD is a deep-diving crankbait that features the famous ‘hunting action’ of the original Rk Crawler but in a smaller size – perfect for targeting wary fish in deep water!
MLF Angler Mike McClelland designed the Rk Crawler 50DD in a smaller size that’s neither too big nor too small for most freshwater game fish. The Rk Crawler 50 DD weighs ½ ounce and is 50 mm long. It dives fast, covering more fish-holding structures with every cast. When targeting game fish in 9 to 12 feet of water, the versatile Rk Crawler 50 DD will quickly become a go-to crankbait.
SPRO crankbaits also include industry-leading #5 Gamakatsu treble hooks. The extremely sharp trebles allow for faster hook sets and deeper penetration. Each Rk Crawler 50DD is ready to fish right out of the package, and its quality components ensure a long fish-catching life!
Like other Rk Crawler baits, the 50DD is available in a wide range of colors for just about any fishing situation.
SPRO’s Rk Crawler 50DD is the anglers-choice for catching deep water fish. Its smaller size, wide-wobble action, and choice of colors are what’s needed to trigger a bite!
SPRO Rk Crawler 50DD Features:
- Weight: 1/2 oz
- Size: 50 mm
- #5 Gamakatsu Trebles
- Depth: 9-12 feet
- MSRP: $11.99
The New SPRO® Pintail Stick Slim is Made for Finesse
Kennesaw, GA, Conditions, such as fluctuating water levels and cold water temperatures, can push fish down and make anglers change tactics, pulling out secret weapons to trigger the bite. SPRO® developed the Pintail Stick Slim to give anglers that secret weapon for such conditions. Subtle movement and finesse are sometimes what it takes to trigger a tough bite when the target species has a case of lockjaw. Bait presentations often require subtle action to trigger a strike when the bite gets tough.
The Pintail Stick Slim’s unique, single slender tail provides more action than its predecessor, the Pintail Stick, no matter how still the bait’s body is fished. Small ticks, flutters and kicks wiggle into action anytime the lure is retrieved, floated or fished vertically. Try fishing the Pintail Stick rigged Neko, Wacky, Texas, or with a Midwest Finesse rig for action that drives finicky fish crazy.
Constructed of supreme quality Japanese soft plastic and infused with Amino Bite scent
that makes fish want to hang on, these are offered in 3.75 inch and five inch lengths. With more than a dozen colors to choose from, SPRO has anglers covered no matter the conditions on the water.
SPRO Pintail Stick Features:
- High-quality Japanese plastic
- 5.5 inches Long
- Infused with Amino Bite Scent
- Fluttering Pin Tail action
- Heavy salt for easy casting and fast sink rate
- Perfect for Neko, Texas Rig, Shakey Head, or Whacky rigging
- Sold 6 per pack
- MSRP: $6.49
Introducing SPRO® Outsider Crankbaits – A New Concept in Crankbait Design
Kennesaw, GA The aim for creating the new SPRO® Outsider Crankbaits was simple. Design a bait that is easier to cast and has a more responsive action. Three designers put their heads together and achieved this goal, creating Outsider Crankbaits—one with its weight on the outside. The new family of Outsiders covers shallow to deep water and everything in between.
John Crews, Chris Johnston and Cory Johnston were the innovators behind this new concept. They asked themselves, “What happens if we move the bait’s weight to the outside? Does it change how it performs?” The three anglers/designers found out it greatly impacted how the crankbait’s action responded in the water, and as a bonus, it was much easier to cast!
SPRO’s Outsider Crankbaits are a new concept in diving crankbaits. By shifting the weight to the outside, the Outsider is easier to cast with more responsive action in the water – design traits that allow anglers to cover more water and catch more fish.
The Outsider is available in three sizes covering different water depths and targeting fish no matter where they lurk. The SR 55 is a ⅜ oz., square-bill, shallow running bait for 3 to 4 feet of water. The MR 60 is slightly bigger (60 mm) and heavier (5/8 oz.) for medium running from 7 to 9 feet. The DD 80 is the biggest Outsider tuned for fishing in 19 to 21 feet. The DD 80’s 1.25 oz. weight and larger size allow the crankbait to dive quickly and easily cruise the depths. Outsider Crankbaits also include premium Gamakatsu hooks for ready-to-fish convenience right out of the package.
Outsider Crankbaits Features:
- 3 Sizes: Shallow, Medium, Deep Diver
- Designed by John Crews, Chris Johnston and Cory Johnston
- Shifting the weight to the outside for easier casting and more responsive action
- Square bill
SR 55 Specs:
- Shallow running
- Depth: 3-4 ft.
- Size: 55 mm
- Weight: 3/8 oz.
- MSRP: $19.99
MR 60 Specs:
- Medium running
- Depth: 7- 9 ft.
- Size: 60 mm
- Weight: 5/8 oz.
- MSRP: $18.99
DD 80 Specs:
- Deep Diver
- Depth: 19 – 21 ft
- Size: 80 mm
- Weight: 1.25 oz
- MSRP: $25.99
Put Baits Where the Fish are with SPRO’s New Deeper Running McStick 110+1
Kennesaw, GA, With the development of forward-facing sonar, deeper diving jerkbaits have become a staple in every angler’s arsenal. The ability to get the bait down quickly and in front of the fish is essential to maximizing any anglers catch rate.
Various conditions determine the depth of the water column that fish utilize. Water temperature, water level, oxygen content, spawning calendar and forage behavior are all factors that determine what depth of water fish are located. When conditions drive fish down from the bank into deeper water patterns, presenting a bait to specific depths can be challenging. Building off of the company's highly effective McStick 110 Jerkbait, SPRO’s new McStick 110+1 allows anglers to reach new depths throughout the year.
SPRO® has taken their amazingly effective McStick jerkbait lineup and added the McStick 110+1, designed to dive from 9’ to 12’ with its strike triggering ripping action to help anglers fill this niche. The lure is perfect for suspended walleye, bass holding to deep structure, or any predator fish staging near 10’ in the water column. The McStick 110 +1 allows anglers to fish closer to suspended bass and crank the lure down to their depth without long casts. This dramatically increases hook-ups since the lure is in the strike zone longer.
Built using premium Gamakatsu razor-sharp hooks and offered in various colors, the McStick 110+1 is an excellent jerk bait offered at a competitive price. Challenge the depths of your fishing arsenal with the McStick 110+1.
SPRO McStick 110+1 Features:
- Deeper Running Version of the McStick
- Dives 9’ - 12’
- Ripping Action
- Great for Forward Facing Sonar
SPRO McStick 110+1 Specs:
- 110mm
- ½ oz.
- Gamakatsu #5 Trebles
- MSRP $14.99
New for 2022, SPRO® Debuts the KGB Chad Shad 180 Glide Bait
Kennesaw, GA New for 2022, SPRO® and KGB Swimbaits team up to develop the KGB Chad Shad 180. One of the great advances in fishing over the past several years is the development of glide baits. These oversized, single-jointed, hard-bodied fish imitators were created to mimic trout in California lakes but have morphed into replicating large bass prey across the country. The KGB Chad Shad 180 can resemble virtually any baitfish that bass feed on, such as trout, shad, perch, and other types of fish.
The Glide Bait designed by SPRO and KGB Swimbaits has been perfected with experience to provide the performance of a custom hand-made bait. Versatility is key as the SPRO Glide Bait offers control from super slow retrieves to the fastest burn, wide glides, or choppy cuts. Complete control of depth and direction is easily achieved with the new SPRO Glide Bait.
This glide bait will be user-friendly, so even a novice will have a high precision bait from the get-go as the bait does the work on its own. The new SPRO Glide Bait will be offered in five colors to imitate the food supply in natural color schemes like silver, gray, white, and multi-colors.
At 180mm in length and 2.4oz in weight, this glide bait isn’t too much for the beginner angler yet still provides the seasoned fisherman with everything needed in a lure. Gamakatsu treble hooks ensure the catch when the time comes. Use the SPRO Glide Bait as your ace up the sleeve when it’s time to weigh in a big bag!
Features:
- 180mm length
- 2.4oz
- Slow sink ROF 3-4
- 2 Gamakatsu #1 treble hooks
- MSRP: $59.99
New SPRO® Flutter Tail Shrimp Excels Both Inshore and Offshore
Kennesaw, GA (XXXX) – SPRO® announces the introduction of the 3 inch Flutter Tail Shrimp, the most lifelike and realistic soft plastic shrimp imitator on the market and a tool that will excel on inshore and offshore species alike.
As the name suggests, the key to this lure is its distinctive and ultra-natural fluttering tail action, which calls fish from a distance yet doesn’t scare off highly pressured fish. It is an excellent tool in clear, stained and dirty water, or anywhere fish eat shrimp or similarly-built crustaceans. It can be fished shallow or deep for 12 months out of the year, which means it will never have to leave your boat. It’s made of super-durable Dura Tuff material, so anglers will catch more fish but use fewer baits, and with the Amino Bite infusion, all species will grab it, but they won’t let go.
SPRO Flutter Tail Shrimp Features
- Size: 3 inches
- Construction: Dura Tuff
- Total Colors: 10
- Scent: Amino Bite
- Number Per Pack: 5
- Fluttering Tail Action
Use the Bait the Pros Use - The SPRO® CJ Smasher Makes Fish Want to Eat
Kennesaw, GA, Finding an artificial bait that is durable, versatile and cost-effective can be a challenge. SPRO® Sports Professionals have risen to the test, offering anglers the CJ Smasher 3 inch worm. Developed by elite series pros Chris and Cory Johnston, the CJ Smasher is feature-rich and a proven winner earning trophies in the MLF and BASS competitions to its credit.
The CJ Smasher is offered in various colors to meet any angler's needs, whether matching a fishery's natural forage or adjusting for water clarity. This soft plastic is incredibly versatile and can be easily rigged in multiple practical configurations, including drop shot, shakey head, midwest finesse rig and Texas rig.
Poured using Dura Tuff material for longevity and value, each CJ Smasher is built to take the abuse of long days on the water and is sure to perform when hunting trophy fish. The Amino Bite scent attractant is integrated into the plastic, ensuring committed strikes from even the most finicky fish.
Available in packs of five, this worm is easily fished in weeds, rocky points and shot into cover or under docks where big fish live. The CJ Smasher is a versatile soft lure for any occasion.
CJ Smasher Features:
- Duratuff material
- Amino Bite Scent infused
- Best suited for drop shot, jig head, or Texas rig
- Available in 10 colors
CJ Smasher Specifications:
- Length: 3” in.
- Pieces per pack: 5
- MSRP: $6.99
Gamakatsu® Tungsten Hybrid Swing Head: Hybrid Design for Ultimate Performance
Tacoma, Washington (XXXX) – Swing Head jigs give anglers another way to target bass on an offshore structure. Gamakatsu's new feature-packed Tungsten Hybrid Swing Head proves that not all swing heads are created equal. With thoughtful design and quality manufacturing, Gamakatsu's hybrid head design combines the snag resistance of a football head and the action of the cobra-style head.
The Tungsten Hybrid Swing Head creates a natural-looking, slithering action that draws significant attention from nearby bass. The head design unites the benefits of both a cobra head for passing through grass and a football head for snag resistance on a hard bottom. Ideal for slow-swimming retrieves, the head increases the action of any plastic bait along the bottom. The Tungsten Hybrid Swing Head features a stealthy smoke-colored finish that blends in with plastics and your lure's surroundings to generate more strikes. The weight size is stamped into the side of each weight, making it easy to identify when it's time to make a change.
The precision wire harness tuned to exacting tolerances and a recessed line tie helps it stay weedless. The use of tungsten keeps it compact and offers increased sensitivity. The wire harness offers easy rigging with a variety of Gamakatsu hooks. Increased action, design versatility, toughness and maximum usefulness are found in the new Tungsten Hybrid Swing Head from Gamakatsu.
Tungsten Hybrid Swing Head Features:
A hybrid head design combines a cobra head for passing through grass and a football head for snag resistance on a hard bottom
Special shape increases the action of any plastic bait along the bottom
More erratic when slowly swimming
Tungsten material for increased sensitivity and compact profile Promotes easy rigging for any number of Gamakatsu hooks Recessed line tie further increases its weedless ability Weights (ounces): 3/8, 1/2, 3/4, 1
Color: Smoke Qty/Pack: 1
Gamakatsu® G-Finesse Trebles Now Offered with Feathers
Tacoma, Washington (XXXX) - Gamakatsu®, the world’s leading manufacturer and innovator of fishing hooks and terminal tackle, introduces the G-Finesse Feathered Treble MH. Gamakatsu mainly based this design on the input of the late great, Aaron Martens. The existing medium-heavy G-Finesse Trebles took the bass world by storm six years ago, and the addition of life-like and vibrant feathers fills the lineup.
Like their predecessors, the G-Finesse feathered trebles utilize Tournament-Grade Wire construction, allowing the points to remain sharper, longer. That means anglers will use fewer of them while ensuring better hook-up percentages as the fishing day goes. Furthermore, they are stronger than hooks of the same diameter wire. They come with a Nano Smooth Coat that makes penetration even easier. Any fish that strikes gets stuck, and those that get stuck stay pinned until anglers unhook them.
These new trebles come two to a pack, adorned with either white or chartreuse premium feathers and complementary tinsel, hand-selected by Martens to tempt even the most finicky fish. Add them to any fast-moving lure to create a fluid appearance or to lures that demand pauses so the motion will continue in place. They’ll excel with topwaters, crankbaits, jerkbaits and spoons.
G-Finesse Feathered Treble MH Features:
- Sizes: 6, 4, 2, 1, 1/0
- Colors: White/Tinsel, Chartreuse/Tinsel
- Qty/Pkg: 2
Gamakatsu’s G-Finesse Drop Shot Now Available in Popular Size 4 Hook
Tacoma, Washington - Gamakatsu's G-Finesse Drop Shot hooks are a favorite among anglers who enjoy fishing plastic baits. Now, Gamakatsu® is adding the popular size 4 hook to the lineup for drop-shot anglers.
Gamakatsu developed the G-Finesse Drop Shot Hook with help from the late, great Aaron Martens. G-Finesse results from endless hours of product testing from some of the world's leading pro anglers. Martens' product testing showed using the Drop Shot hook improved his hook-ups by 30 to 40%, and he was rarely missing a fish.
The G-Finesse Drop Shot Hook features a slightly angled point for optimum effectiveness. Gamakatsu's exclusive TGW (Tournament Grade Wire) is thinner, stronger, and sharper than the standard wire, resulting in easier hook penetration without losing hook strength.
The G-Finesse Drop Shot Hook also features Gamakatsu's proprietary Nano Smooth Coating. This hook provides a stealthy color and a smoother surface for unsurpassed hook penetration, making this the best Drop Shot hook available.
Available in sizes 4, 2, 1, 1/0 and 2/0 in packs of 6. Stock up now and be ready when the bite is on.
G-Finesse Drop Shot Features:
- Color: Nano Smooth Coat
- Sizes: 4, 2, 1, 1/0, 2/0
- Qty/Pkg: 6
Gamakatsu’s New Extra Wide-Mouth G-Bags Come in the Perfect Size for Your Needs
Tacoma, Washington (XXXX) – Gamakatsu’s new series of extra wide-mouth tackle bags come in various sizes so anglers can take everything they need and nothing they don’t. The G-Bag EWM storage solutions open wide, giving anglers fast, easy access to tackle so anglers can rig up in a hurry and take advantage of a changing bite.
The smallest bag in the new series, the G-Bag EWM 100, is the perfect size for holding a variety of soft plastic packs. The Extra Wide Mouth (EWM) provides easy access to the interior, and the internal wire frame keeps the top open while finding the right bait. The 8 x 4 x 6-inch size stows easily in other bags, and anglers can take as many as needed while remaining organized. Pick up a few and keep all smaller items organized and ready.
The larger 9.5 x 5 x 7-inch size of the G-Bag EWM 200 Tackle Bag stows more gear using the same innovative easy-access stay-open top. The 200 easily accommodates magnum packs of soft plastics and oversized bulk bags, so that anglers can stash their largest swimbaits or enough tubes for the season in one convenient location. In addition, there’s enough space to store a wide variety of tackle and gear, so anglers can keep rigging tools and other essentials handy as well.
Stuff up to four Gamakatsu G-Box 3600 or eight 3200 utility cases into the G-Bag EWM 300 using the innovative Extra Wide Mouth opening. The biggest size in the lineup is designed to carry a variety of tackle comfortably, thanks to the adjustable, padded removable shoulder strap. The generous 13 x 8.5 x 11-inch bag lets anglers stockpile all of their finesse baits and power fishing lures in the same place so they can be prepared for anything.
All of the bags in the G-Bag EWM series feature water-resistant TPU construction that sheds water from rainstorms or the occasional rogue wave, so contents stay protected. Plus, a see-through I.D. tag window on the 100 and 200 size, allows anglers to slide in their customized labels for easy identification, so they grab the right bags for each trip. Anglers will always find the contents easily, courtesy of the Extra Wide Mouth and stay-open design.
G-Bag EWM 100 Tackle Bag Features:
- Extra Wide Mouth (EWM) opening for easy access
- Water-resistant TPU material
- Internal wire frame keeps main compartment in open position
- Perfect size for holding a variety of soft plastics packs
- Size: 8 x 4 x 6 inches
G-Bag EWM 200 Tackle Bag Features:
- Extra Wide Mouth (EWM) opening for easy access
- Water-resistant TPU material
- Internal wire frame keeps main compartment in open position
- Great size bait bag for larger magnum size packs of soft plastics and bulk packs
- Holds a wide variety of tackle and gear
- Size: 9.5 x 5 x 7 inches
G-Bag EWM 300 Tackle Bag Features:
- Extra Wide Mouth (EWM) opening for easy access
- Water-resistant TPU material
- Internal wire frame keeps main compartment in open position
- Adjustable, padded removable shoulder strap
- Holds up to 4 Gamakatsu G-Box 3600 utility cases (not included)
- Holds up to 8 Gamakatsu G-Box 3200 utility cases (not included)
- Size: 13 x 8.5 x 11 inches
Gamakatsu® USA Offers A New Angle On Pliers
Tacoma, Washington (XXXX) - New for 2022, Gamakatsu® introduces 9-inch pliers to its lineup. Similar to the popular 6- and 7-inch pliers, the 9-inch pliers have an added 45-degree angle to provide a comfortable position for various tasks. Say goodbye to awkward angles and hello to an ergonomic, reliable tool.
Like all the pliers Gamakatsu offers, these pliers are stainless steel with a PTFE coating to aid against corrosion and rust. This protective plastic is sprayed on and baked to create a nonstick, waterproof, non-corrosive and non-reactive surface. The handles also feature a non-slip grip that helps anglers hold on during wet conditions.
The Gamakatsu pliers have precise crimping jaws to fit various sizes of sleeves. When big-game fishing, anglers will appreciate the crimps for hard-to-work-with heavy mono. Anglers will also enjoy the precision split ring feature on the needle nose tool. This feature will cut down the time anglers spend changing or replacing split rings. These pliers also feature a multi-tasking jaw that utilizes an outside cutter to cut braid, mono, or fluorocarbon.
Included with the pliers are a lanyard and a black nylon sheath, so the pliers are right where they are needed. Gamakatsu’s heavy-duty pliers will become the favorite tool for avid salt or freshwater anglers!
Gamakatsu 9-inch Pliers Features:
- Precise crimping jaws
- Split Ring feature
- Outside cutter cuts Braid, Mono, Fluorocarbon
- Includes lanyard & sheath
- 45° angle provides a comfortable position for a variety of tasks
- Stainless Steel construction to withstand the elements
- Non Slip grip for wet conditions
- Length: 9"
New Gamakatsu® Fillet Knives
Tacoma, WA - Custom-designed Gamakatsu® fillet knives are the newest edition to the stellar Gamakatsu line of fishing and outdoor products. Four different-sized fillet knives are designed in the USA with attention to detail. Gamakatsu hits all the points on what goes into a practical, purpose-driven set of fillet knives for the novice or professional.
The new Gamakatsu fillet knives are loaded with features that anglers will love. The flexible blade is supposed to "give" a little, allowing it to cut through fish easily. This flexibility allows for the more precise cuts required for delicate meats. This style of blade makes it easy to quickly transform a whole fish into a set of precisely cut fillets.
Since they're designed for preparing fish, fillet knives often have to work in wet environments. Corrosion-resistant steel that is easy to clean is a must-have. Gamakatsu's line of Fillet Knives also features 420J2 Stainless Steel blades with a DLC coating (Diamond-Like Carbon).
Anglers have the option to choose from four-different knives based on their needs. The GMKT6F has a 6-inch long blade and is ideal for small to medium sized fish. The 7-inch GMKT7FS features a spoon at the end of the handle for a quick and easy way to open and clean entrails or remove bloodlines. The two larger knives are the GMKT7.5F with a 7.5-inch long blade and the GMKT9F featuring the longest blade at 9-inches long.
These custom-designed Gamakatsu fillet knives feature a blue and gray G-Grip handle: glass-filled nylon and rubber overmold for a secure grip. A simple blade protector style sheath keeps the knives safe to handle, clean, and ready for service. Regardless of which you choose, rest assured that the custom-designed Gamakatsu fillet knives will serve you well for years to come!
GMKT6F Fillet Knife Features:
- Blade Style: Trailing Point/Fillet
- Blade Edge: Plain
- Sheath: Blade Protector
- Blade Length: 6 inches
- Blade Material: 420J2 Stainless Steel
- Blade Finish: DLC Coating (Diamond-Like Carbon)
- Handle Material: Glass-filled nylon, rubber over-mold.
GMKT7FS with spoon Fillet Knife Features:
- Blade Style: Trailing Point/Fillet
- Blade Edge: Plain
- Sheath: Blade Protector
- Blade Length: 7 inches
- Blade Material: 420J2 Stainless Steel
- Blade Finish: DLC Coating (Diamond-Like Carbon)
- Handle Material: Glass-filled nylon, rubber overmold.
GMKT7.5F Fillet Knife Features:
- Blade Style: Trailing Point/Fillet
- Blade Edge: Plain
- Sheath: Blade Protector
- Blade Length: 7.5 inches
- Blade Material: 420J2 Stainless Steel
- Blade Finish: DLC Coating (Diamond-Like Carbon)
- Handle Material: Glass-filled nylon, rubber overmold.
GMKT9F Fillet Knife Features:
- Blade Style: Trailing Point/Fillet
- Blade Edge: Plain
- Sheath: Blade Protector
- Blade Length: 9 inches
- Blade Material: 420J2 Stainless Steel
- Blade Finish: DLC Coating (Diamond-Like Carbon)
- Handle Material: Glass-filled nylon, rubber overmold.
Gamakatsu® Steps Into the Knife Market with their New Every Day Carry Knives
Tacoma, Washington - Gamakatsu®, the world’s leading manufacturer and innovator of fishing hooks and terminal tackle, introduces its new series of Everyday Carry (EDC) Knives. Carrying a pocket knife comes in handy in multiple situations, emergencies, and general cutting chores from day to day for the carrier.
Gamakatsu has developed four different-sized folding knives to suit EDC needs for work and play. All four knives are ready to tackle any task.
When designing these knives, Gamakatsu went with the best. The Gamakatsu EDC blades offer durable high-end D2 steel. These knives have a frame lock style handle, a locking mechanism used in one-handed knives. The frame lock closure system makes it possible to open and close the knife with one hand. These knives also feature an assisted opening action/flipper mechanism to make opening easier.
The significant differences between the knives are the sizes, handle materials and blade style. The GMKT1 features a 3.25-inch Drop Point blade with a plain edge, Stonewash finish, and a Blackwash stainless steel handle. The most carry-friendly Gamakatsu knife is the GMKT2 EDC knife featuring a 2.75-inch Drop Point blade, with a two-toned satin finish and a plain edge. The handle material is stainless steel with an attractive Bluewash finish.
The two larger bladed EDC knives have an upgraded handle. GMKT3, the largest EDC knife, has a 3.625-inch Stonewash finish blade that is partially serrated. It features a G10 front handle scale and Stonewash steel back handle. The GMKT4 is a 3.5-inch Tanto style, with Black Oxide and a plain edge. It features a G10/Carbon Fiber Overlay and Black Oxide steel handle.
There are several reasons why you could, and should, EDC a knife. Carry with reassurance knowing that Gamakatsu has you covered!
GMKT1 EDC Knife Features:
● Custom-designed Gamakatsu EDC knife featuring an assisted opening action with a flipper mechanism.
● Blade Style: Drop Point
● Blade Edge: Plain
● Lock Type: Frame Lock
● Pocket clip: Fixed/Tip-Up
● Overall Length: 7.75 inches
● Blade Length: 3.25 inches
● Blade Material: D2
● Blade Finish: Stonewash
● Handle Material: Stainless Steel
● Handle Finish: Black-wash
GMKT2 EDC Knife Features:
● Custom-designed Gamakatsu EDC knife featuring an assisted opening action with a flipper mechanism.
● Blade Style: Drop Point
● Blade Edge: Plain
● Lock Type: Frame Lock
● Pocket clip: Fixed/Tip-Up
● Overall Length: 6.45 inches
● Blade Length: 2.75”
● Blade Material: D2
● Blade Finish: 2 Tone Satin
● Handle Material: Stainless Steel
● Handle Finish: Bluewash
GMKT3 EDC Knife Features:
● Custom-designed Gamakatsu EDC knife featuring an assisted opening action with a flipper mechanism.
● Blade Style: Drop Point
● Blade Edge: Partially Serrated
● Lock Type: Frame Lock
● Pocket clip: Fixed/Tip-Up
● Overall Length: 8.25 inches
● Blade Length: 3.625 inches
● Blade Material: D2
● Blade Finish: Stonewash
● Handle Material: G10 Front Handle Scale/Steel Back Handle
● Handle Finish: Black G10/Stonewash Steel
GMKT4 EDC Knife Features:
● Custom-designed Gamakatsu EDC knife featuring an assisted opening action with a flipper mechanism.
● Blade Style: Tanto
● Blade Edge: Plain
● Lock Type: Frame Lock
● Pocket clip: Fixed/Tip-Up
● Overall Length: 8.25 inches
● Blade Length: 3.5 inches
● Blade Material: D2
● Blade Finish: Black Oxide
● Handle Material: G10/Carbon Fiber Overlay
● Handle Finish: Black CF/Black Oxide Steel
The Chick Magnet Has a Little Brother.
Columbia, S.C. – July 20, 2022 – Fresh off an ICAST 2021 “Best of Category” win for the launch of the Chick Magnet, Strike King is pleased to announce a new crankbait on the scene, the Chick Magnet Jr. This little brother to the 2021 fan favorite weighs in at 1/4-ounce and offers the same proven features of the original. Strike King once again teamed with MLF pro and back-to-back FLW Angler of the Year Andy Morgan to design the new size of the award-winning lure.
Like the original, the Lil’ Chick is a tribute to the legendary craftsmen of East Tennessee who carved flat-sided crankbaits by hand out of cedar and balsa. “Those early lures I remember so fondly growing up on Lake Chickamauga had action like no other, with a tight wiggle,” offered the Dayton, TN pro. For decades, the balsa flat-sided plug was a closely guarded secret of the region, where these homemade plugs were built to produce an erratic action and an unmistakable thump that excels in tough conditions. Morgan and lure-designer Marion Tipton poured heart and soul into perfecting the art of the flat-sided plug design. With the help of Strike King in 2021, the two smalltown innovators shared it with the world.
As lethal as the old hand-carved balsa plugs were along the Tennessee River, Morgan was never quite satisfied with their durability and casting distance. With Strike King’s superior engineering, the team has introduced a lure that retains all the fish-catching qualities of the legendary plug with supreme castability and long-lasting build.
The Chick Magnet Jr is ideal for targeting fish in tougher conditions and excels in cool water, as well as when fishing pressure is high. Morgan also uses it after a weather front has made for a challenging bite.
Pro Angler Kevin VanDam is no stranger to the mystique of the flat-sided plug. “This pared-down Chick Magnet is a go-to for me when I need a smaller bait while cranking in stained water,” offered VanDam. “When I am looking for maximum water displacement to get their attention, I turn to the Chick Magnet Jr.”
Strike King offers the Chick Magnet Jr in 13 colors with a MSRP of $9.99. For clear water, Morgan prefers the Green Gizzard Shad, Natural Shad, Natural Bream and Sexy Shad 2.0. When fishing stained water, Morgan often switches to a Chartreuse with Blue/Black Splatterback or a Chartreuse Copper. His personal favorite color in the line is “Tip’s Special,” which pays homage to the legendary lure craftsman and his personal friend, Marion Tipton.
Gamakatsu Provides Innovative Storage For Anglers on the Go
Tacoma, Washington – Anglers have trusted Gamakatsu® to provide the most critical link between them and their quarry for years. They can also rely on the innovative manufacturer to provide secure storage for all of their gear. A complete line of bags provides plenty of organization for a variety of outings.
Gamakatsu’s new water-resistant Hybrid Duffel Backpack offers 110 liters of space to take gear wherever anglers may roam. The innovative pack can be carried in three different ways, thanks to the removable backpack straps, shoulder strap, or side-carrying handle. All straps are padded to keep anglers comfortable even when the bag is fully loaded. The large main opening provides easy access to the pack’s contents. The large, zippered internal pocket and zippered mesh pocket inside the main compartment opening keeps everything organized. A separate, external zippered-access compartment keeps dirty clothes or gear separated. The large exterior zippered storage pocket and MOLLE-type webbing for attaching and securing gear further add to the organizing potential. The pack folds into itself for compact storage when not in use.
For those that prefer to roll along, Gamakatsu offers the Rolling Gear Duffel. The pair of sturdy wheels allow for easy transport of 90 liters of belongings. When anglers decide to pick it up, use the adjustable, removable padded shoulder strap or padded handles to carry in comfort. An external zippered pocket and a large inner zippered pocket keep things tidy. Water-resistant construction keeps the elements at bay, so anglers won’t have to worry about rain clouds or rough boat rides. A convenient carrying case allows compact storage when anglers are not on the road or at the lake.
When anglers don’t have a ton of stuff to tote around, the new water-resistant 30-liter Gear Duffel would be the best to pack up. The large main opening is secured with heavy-duty zippers for easy access, with an external zippered pocket that keeps oft-needed items at the ready. A separate, outer zippered access compartment for dirty clothes or gear keeps anglers clean stuff clean. An adjustable, padded removable shoulder strap lets anglers carry stuff hands-free, though the hook and loop fastener on the main carrying handles works as well.
Gamakatsu has a gear bag designed for all anglers, whether hitting the fishing hole for a couple of hours or a week. And they’re all built with Gamakatsu’s dedication to quality, so anglers know they’ll perform as well as their legendary hooks.
Hybrid Duffel Backpack 110L Features:
- Can be carried 3 different ways: Backpack, shoulder or side carrying handle
- Padded removable shoulder straps
- Padded carry handles for comfort
- Separate external zippered access compartment for dirty clothes or gear
- Folds into itself for compact storage
- Heavy-duty zippers on main compartment
- Water-resistant TPU construction
- Size: 30 x 15.5 x 13 inches
Rolling Gear Duffel 90L Features:
- Two sturdy wheels allow for easy transport of belongings
- Convenient carrying case allows for compact storage
- Adjustable, padded removable shoulder strap
- Padded carry handles for comfort
- Heavy-duty zippers on main compartment
- Water-resistant TPU construction
- Size: 27 x 15.5 x 13 inches
Gear Duffel 30L Features:
- Large main opening for easy access
- Heavy-duty zippers on main compartment
- Separate external zippered access compartment for dirty clothes or gear
- Adjustable, padded removable shoulder strap
- Water-resistant TPU construction
- Size: 19 x 10 x 10 inches
Strike King and KVD collaborate on the Perfect Jerkbait.
Columbia, S.C. – July 20, 2022 – Back with additions to a fan favorite, Strike King is pleased to introduce the KVD Elite Jerkbait 300. Tournament-ready straight out of the package, the Strike King J300 Elite comes equipped with three KVD Elite Triple Grip Treble Hooks and a premier paint finish that is second to none.
Michigan native and arguably the best angler ever Kevin VanDam worked tirelessly with the Strike King design crew to build the new and improved KVD J300 Elite Jerkbait. Jerkbait fishing is close to the heart of the seven-time B.A.S.S. Angler of the Year; with one cast of the KVD J300 Elite Jerkbait and you can feel his influence with every twitch of the rod tip. "The hooks we used on this bait are specifically built to excel on lures like the jerkbait that require exceptional balance," explained VanDam. "They are weighted perfectly for the J300 Elite and are designed with the best angle for maximum hold. They are 20% sharper and stay sharp longer." In fact, VanDam credits the KVD Elite Triple Grip hooks with two of his Bassmaster Classic Championship trophies. "The holding power of this hook is unbelievable," KVD offered.
The other key feature of this bait is the almost hand painted look of the new colors the Kevin personally picked out. These colors are unique and match the hatch in areas where the forage can be very specific. These are colors that work across the country. KVD uses water clarity and sky conditions to determine the color pattern, preferring natural patterns in clear conditions and fishing brighter colors in stained water, with this in mind KVD made sure these colors are the best bait imitation possible and finishes that make these lures a work of art.
VanDam, to whom the jerkbait is his go to bait, has relied on the KVD J300 from one end of the country to the other. "This is an all-season bait for me," VanDam said. The 2018 Bass Hall of Famer typically fishes the J300 Elite with line as light as 8-pound test and as heavy as 14. "I may go as light as 8-pound test if I am looking to get maximum depth out of the lure, but out of the box it will run four to seven feet deep." KVD uses water clarity and sky conditions to determine the color pattern, preferring natural patterns in clear conditions and fishing brighter colors in stained water, with this in mind KVD handpicked the premier 12 colors and finishes that make this lures a work of art.
Another feature that sets the KVD Elite Jerkbait 300 apart is the weight transfer system, critical for consistently long casts. VanDam explains: "We spent a lot of time on the weight transfer system. You must engineer the balance just right. And Strike King nailed it. This thing casts like a rocket, even right into the wind."
The KVD Elite Jerkbait J300 is engineered to produce the same standout action of the original. "This lure sets the standard for jerkbaits," VanDam said. "It fishes perfectly when snapped quickly in warmer water, as well as slowly with a lot of pauses in colder water. Strike King has perfected that erratic movement pattern that fish cannot ignore." The J300 Elite comes in at MSRP $14.99
Gamakatsu® Double Down Spring Lock Keeps Soft Plastics Secure
Tacoma, Washington – Gamakatsu®, the longtime leader in hooks for everything from bluegills to blue marlin, has expanded its ever-increasing reach in the terminal tackle market with the new Double Down Spring Lock.
The Double Down Spring Lock features not one but two retaining wires wound in parallel, so soft plastics stay rigged as intended. That means fewer wasted casts and far fewer lost or damaged lures. It’s a win-win for everyone but the fish.
Add the simple-to-rig double wire rig to a favorite Gamakatsu hook and holding power is maximized, and anglers can be sure that it won’t give up in the heat of battle.
The Double Down Spring Lock is also available as part of Gamakatsu’s Spring Lock Spinner, made for adding flash and vibration to a favorite swimbait or soft plastic. It calls fish from a distance, in all water clarities and a wide variety of depths. Due to its premium construction, it excels in the bass world but will also stand up to pike, muskies and various saltwater species.
Double Down Spring Lock Features:
- Features two retaining wires wound in parallel
- Makes rigging simple and provides even more holding power
- Securely locks plastics in place so baits don’t slip
- Color: Stainless Steel
- Size: M, L, XL
- Qty per pack: 8
MLF’s Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 6 Set to Visit Lake Champlain
Covercraft Stop 6 on Lake Champlain Presented by Wiley X to Showcase 155 Professional Anglers Competing for Top Prize up to $135,000
PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. (July 19, 2022) – Major League Fishing (MLF), the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, is set to return to Plattsburgh, New York, next week, July 29 – Aug. 1, for the sixth and final event of the 2022 MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Presented by Fuel Me regular-season – the Covercraft Stop 6 on Lake Champlain Presented by Wiley X. The four-day event – hosted by the City of Plattsburgh and the Adirondack Coast Visitors Bureau – will mark the 13th time the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit has competed on Lake Champlain and will showcase 155 professional anglers competing for a total purse of more than $850,000.
"We are so excited to have Major League Fishing tournaments back on the Adirondack Coast and Lake Champlain year after year,” said Alyssa Senecal, Adirondack Coast Visitors Bureau Assistant Director of Tourism & Marketing. “These tournaments not only have an incredible economic impact on our area but bring long-lasting exposure to our backyard and anglers who just keep coming back for more. Thank you to everyone at MLF for recognizing, showcasing and caring for the destination that we call home."
When the Pro Circuit last visited the lake in 2019, pro Casey Scanlon of Eldon, Missouri, put together a four-day total of 76 pounds, 2 ounces to take home the top award of $100,000. Legendary pro Gary Yamamoto of Palestine, Texas, holds the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit record for the heaviest one-day weight on the fishery, bringing a limit to the scale weighing 24 pounds, 4 ounces back in 2011.
In its 27th season, the Pro Circuit features a roster of 155 of the world’s best bass-fishing professionals competing across six regular-season events, each with a top award of up to $135,000. The field is also competing for valuable points to qualify for the 2022 Tackle Warehouse TITLE Presented by Mercury, the Pro Circuit Championship – held this year on the St. Lawrence River in Massena, New York – and the coveted Bally Bet Angler of the Year (AOY) title.
In Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit competition, the full field of 155 anglers compete in the two-day opening round on Friday and Saturday. The top 50 pros based on their two-day cumulative weight will advance to Sunday. Only the top 10 pros, based on cumulative weight from the first three days, will continue competition on Championship Monday, where weights will be zeroed and anglers will compete in a one-day shootout for the grand prize of up to $135,000, including a lucrative $35,000 Phoenix MLF Bonus for qualified anglers.
Scanlon said the 2019 tournament – where he focused solely on largemouth on Ticonderoga – was his first and only time to ever fish on Lake Champlain, so he’s looking forward to getting back out on the fishery.
“I believe I’m just inside the cut for the TITLE championship, so I need a good showing at this event to make it to the TITLE,” Scanlon said. “It’s a little later than the last time we were there and there haven’t been a lot of major tournaments won in recent years in the area where I won, so that has me a little nervous. But Lake Champlain is a tremendous fishery and I’ve been doing my homework. I spent some time on the northern end of the lake last time as well, during practice, and I think the smallmouth are going to be a bigger factor this time around.”
Scanlon said he expects to still see some fish spawning, based on local tournaments currently taking place on the fishery, but he expects the fish to be transitioning to more of their summer patterns by the time the event begins.
“Champlain is full of fish, so catching fish isn’t a problem, but catching 4-pound-plus, quality fish is going to be key,” Scanlon said. “I imagine it’s going to be different than the last time I was there, so I just plan to stay on my toes, keep an open mind and try to focus on what’s going on this time around.
“It’s a big body of water, and with only two days of practice, you aren’t going to be able to see the whole lake,” Scanlon continued. “I plan to spend one day on the north end, focusing solely on smallmouth, then spend another day down south searching for largemouth.
“Champlain is a fishery where you can win on either species – and a combination of the two could be a winning pattern as well – so I just plan to get out there and try to get a good feel for which species is currently weighing heavier and is easier to catch.”
Scanlon said he predicts it will take anywhere from 74 to 80 pounds to win the four-day event.
“The fish should be finishing up the spawn and getting healthy, so we should see some good weights this time of year. You’re typically going to need 18 pounds per day or better to make the cuts and to have a shot at the championship round.”
Scanlon said it would be awesome to pull in another win on Lake Champlain.
“The tournament is shaping up a lot like it did last time for me, with the points scenario – and wins are always great – but it would be really special to go back and win it again on the same fishery,” Scanlon finished.
After four events in the 2022 Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit regular season, Alabama pro Josh Butler leads the Bally Bet AOY race with 896 points. The reigning AOY, Michael Neal of Dayton, Tennessee, sits in second place with 882 points, while Guntersville, Alabama’s Justin Lucas sits in third with 863 points. Florence, Italy’s Jacopo Gallelli sits in fourth place with 863 points, while Mitch Crane of Columbus, Mississippi, rounds out the top five with 857 points.
Anglers will take off at 6:30 a.m. ET, Friday through Monday, from the Plattsburgh Waterfront, located at 5 Dock Street in Plattsburgh. Weigh-ins will also be held at the waterfront daily at 2:30 p.m. Fans are welcome to attend the event or follow the live on-the-water action all four days of competition online on MLF NOW! beginning at 7 a.m. ET at MajorLeagueFishing.com.
As part of the event, on Thursday, July 28 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. ET, the MLF Fisheries Management Division (FMD) will lead a clean-up event at the Plattsburgh Waterfront – the Costa Clean Water Matters Program supported by SeaArk Boats. Volunteers will clean up trash and debris from the shores of Lake Champlain, and SeaArk Boats will support the efforts by providing their revolutionary trash clean-up boat for use on the water during the clean-up. Numerous Pro Circuit anglers, including Dakota Ebare, Robby Lefere, Terry Luedtke, Jeff McClain, Jimmy Reese, Skeet Reese and John Voyles will be present at the event.
The MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Covercraft Stop 6 on Lake Champlain Presented by Wiley X will feature live on-the-water coverage and a two-hour action-packed television show that will premiere September 3 on the CBS Sports Network.
The 2022 season culminates next month with the Tackle Warehouse TITLE Presented by Mercury, the Pro Circuit Championship, where the top 48 pros in the points standings, along with 2021 TITLE Champion Jimmy Washam and 2021 AOY Michael Neal, will compete for a top prize of $235,000. The 2022 TITLE will be on the St. Lawrence River in Massena, New York, Aug. 16-21, and is hosted by the Town of Massena.
Proud sponsors of the 2022 MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit include: 4WP, 13 Fishing, Abu Garcia, A.R.E. Truck Caps, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, Black Rifle Coffee, E3, Epic Baits, Favorite Fishing, Gary Yamamoto Baits, General Tire, Lew’s, Lowrance, Lucas Oil, Mercury, Mossy Oak, Onyx, Phoenix, Polaris, Power-Pole, Strike King, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, Wiley X and YETI.
For complete details and updated information no visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit on the MLF5 social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
Jenko Fishing Wins Eighth-Annual ICAST Cup Presented by Major League Fishing on Lake Toho
A Total of $12,000 Raised for Keep America Fishing™ Foundation
The field totaled 58 boats, including a handful of MLF Bass Pro Tour, Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit and Toyota Series anglers, as well as outdoor media and industry representatives from popular tackle brand and non-profits. In its seven-year history, the charity tournament has raised more than $72,000 for Keep America Fishing.
Anchored by a 9-pound, 12-ounce kicker, the Jenko Fishing team won by a wide margin of 6 pounds, 11 ounces over the Skinny Water Marine/Lithium Battery Company team – comprised of Eric Conant, Michael Kirkland and Glen Cabezas – who brought a limit to the scale weighing 15 pounds even.
The Jenko Fishing team said they felt blessed to claim the 2022 ICAST Cup win, something that has been on their bucket list for the past couple years.
“It honestly didn’t come easy, today,” Jennings said. “The first place we stopped didn’t have much, so we left there with 7 or 8 pounds and made a run down the lake. I picked up a new prototype topwater bait that we’ve been working on for three years – it’s my pride and joy and my favorite bait that I’ve ever worked on – and you can see the results first-hand.”
The outcome of that decision and the super-secretive bait were three giant largemouth – including the 9-pound, 12-ounce kicker – that gave the trio their 21-11 limit and the opportunity to take home the ICAST Cup hardware.
“This isn’t even real life – this place is like Jurassic park,” Jennings laughed, maneuvering the three giant largemouth back into the bag.
“This bait is something we have worked so hard on,” he continued. “There hasn’t been anything super unique that has come out in a topwater bait in several years, but this bait is absolutely deadly and I’m so excited to get it out to the public.
“I mean, 21-11 in July, on only three fish – that’s incredible and it’s one of those days that you’ll never forget in your whole life,” Jennings finished.
The top 10 teams finished the tournament in:
2nd: Skinny Water Marine/Lithium Battery Company – Eric Conant, Michael Kirkland and Glen Cabezas, three bass, 15-0
3rd: Floatzilla – Douglas and Hayden Reed, three bass, 14-4
4th: Bull Bay Tackle Company – Jake Stines and Kelly Phillips, three bass, 14-1
5th: The Florida Angler – Nick Morrison and Jeff Powell, three bass, 13-15
6th: 13 Fishing – Christian Grecio and Garrett Rocamora, three bass, 13-12
7th: Hawg Tech, LLC – Robert Perez, Erik Tilson and Jerrod Brown, three bass, 13-2
8th: Thunder Rocket Lures – Jered Fontenot, Jimmy Frye and David Sartwell, three bass, 11-4
9th: Native Angler – Ben Paquin and Kwang Park, three bass, 10-15
10th: Nikko Baits – Rohan Ramsinh and Chuck Smith, three bass, 10-7
USA Bass partnered with MLF and Keep America Fishing to award the top-finishing women’s pair at the ICAST Cup a spot on the 2023 USA Pan American Bass fishing team. The highest-finishing team of female anglers was Michelle Jalaba and Hannah Wesley who brought three bass to the stage totaling 10 pounds even to earn their spot on Team USA Bass at the 2023 Pan American Bass Fishing Championship, alongside Jacob Wheeler, David Dudley, James Watson, Mark Rose, Fred Roumbanis and other top pros.
Keep America Fishing™ is leading the fight to preserve our right to sustainably fish on our nation’s waterways. As the voice of the American angler, Keep America Fishing works to keep our public resources – our oceans, lakes, rivers and streams – open, clean and abundant with fish. For more information, please visit KeepAmericaFishing.org.
For more ICAST 2022 coverage, details and tournament information visit visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF’s social media outlets at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
