AC Insider Rookie Podcast is Back!!!
Welcome back to the 2022 AnglersChannel Rookie Podcast with your host David Xiong! This week David welcomes in Elite Series Rookie and Northern Opens Points Champ Alex Redwine to talk about how he got started in tournament bass fishing and how he made his way to the Elites. Check it out and make sure and share it with your friends!
3 Days Left to Get Santa to Come to Your Town! Berkley Fishing and Santa Want YOU to Decide Where Santa Should Fish After Christmas
There are only 3 days left to submit your town for a chance to win a visit from Santa, gifts for the children and up to $25K from Berkley Fishing toward conservation efforts this holiday season!
COLUMBIA, S.C. (Dec. 2, 2021) — Everyone wants to know what Santa does after he’s done delivering toys to all the good boys and girls after Christmas. Well, we know the answer! Santa goes fishing! And this year, Santa needs your help to decide where he should fish next and what makes it a not-to-be-missed fishing destination!
Fishing tackle brand Berkley and Santa Claus are teaming up to look for fishy cities, towns, and communities who want Santa to visit, fish and donate to a good fishy cause on December 27th. Entering your community in the mix is easy: Answer the questions on the submission form and tell us why Santa should come to your area. You can fill out the submission form here!
The winning town must have a great fishing spot and clearly identify a conservation need or special fishing access project that Santa and Berkley can support. Submissions are open to everyone, but there are only three days left to submit so enter your town through December 5, 2021, for a chance to be the winning town!
Remember, even after Christmas Santa loves to give presents! The winning location will receive gifts for the children of the community and a generous donation for their conservation/special project from Berkley Fishing.
The top five towns will be announced on December 7, 2021, and the winning town will be chosen by a public vote that will run from December 7 through December 12.
To submit your town, go to: SantaFishes.com.
To learn more about Berkley, visit: Berkley-Fishing.com
Final Classic Spot On The Line At Bassmaster Team Championship On Lake Eufaula
Alabama's Lake Eufaula will host anglers from around the country during the Bassmaster Team Championship Dec. 8-11.
Photo by Charles Beck/B.A.S.S.
December 2, 2021
EUFAULA, Ala. — The fall feed will likely be in full swing when anglers arrive in south Alabama for the 2021 Bassmaster Team Championship at Lake Eufaula Dec. 8-11, and Bassmaster Elite Series veteran Matt Herren of Ashville, Ala., said a simple approach could get the job done.
“I don’t think they are going to overcomplicate what they are doing, I think it is going to be about figuring out the part of the lake that is going to be productive and using pretty simple techniques to find the fish,” Herren said. “Eufaula is a really big lake and it will spread out and can swallow boats pretty easily. Guys will be able to fish their strengths no matter what it is they want to do.”
Teams competing in this event qualified through B.A.S.S.-sanctioned team trails and will compete as a duo for the first two days of the tournament. The Top 3 teams after the second day will then be split and compete as individuals in the Bassmaster Classic Fish-Off the final two days. The winner will earn a spot in the 2022 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk March 4-6 at legendary Lake Hartwell and Greenville, S.C.
Lake Eufaula, nicknamed the Big Bass Capital of the World, has played host to major bass tournaments throughout its history and most recently hosted a Bassmaster Elite Series event in July 2020. The Chattahoochee River impoundment has plenty of space for anglers to spread out.
“One of the neat features about Eufaula this time of the year is, when I think of fall fishing, I think about major tributaries,” Herren said. “I either like major feeder creeks or the upper portions of the river system, and Eufaula is blessed with that. There are major feeder creeks all over it, and each of them has a good population of fish. These guys that go down there have a smorgasbord to fish, they could fish feeder creeks, the river or fish in the lake and fish brushpiles and offshore structure.”
While the creeks are full of bank grass, laydowns and lily pads, the main focus on Eufaula in recent years has been the multitude of offshore brushpiles. About three years ago, Herren said the hydrilla that used to be in Eufaula disappeared and forced the bass to relate to different cover, mostly the brush.
“The brushpiles on Eufaula are relatively shallow, 8 to 15-foot piles, and if someone has a good side imaging depthfinder, they aren’t hard to find,” Herren said. “Just look at the map and if you think there ought to be a pile there, there probably is. There could be some schooling going on. About three years ago there used to be a lot of hydrilla on the southern end, but now it is all gone. So, all of those fish that exploded in that grass, those are the fish we’ve been catching out of the brushpiles.”
Herren anticipates spinnerbaits, buzzbaits and ChatterBaits to play a major role in the shallows in this tournament, as well as squarebill crankbaits. Offshore, larger spinnerbaits, Texas-rigged worms and deeper-diving crankbaits have historically been effective. Herren added that the bass will largely be keying in on baitfish, while some of the shallow bass will target bluegill.
Anglers will have to keep an eye on the turnover. If the lake has turned over before anglers arrive, Herren said weights could be really high. If the turnover takes place during the tournament, however, the fishing could be tough, especially around the brushpiles.
Anglers will launch from Lakepoint State Park each day starting at 6:15 a.m. CT and return for weigh-in at 2:15 p.m. Full event coverage will be available at Bassmaster.com.
The Eufaula-Barbour County Chamber of Commerce is hosting the Bassmaster Team Championship and Bassmaster Classic Fish-Off.
Major League Fishing Announces Roster for 2022 Bass Pro Tour
TULSA, Okla. (Dec. 2, 2021) – Major League Fishing (MLF) announced today the full field for the 2022 Bass Pro Tour, the fourth season of professional bass fishing’s most visible and competitive tournament circuit. The field of 80 of the world’s top bass-fishing professionals will visit seven fisheries during the Bass Pro Tour regular season and will compete for a total season purse of more than $7.6 million dollars.
The 2022 Bass Pro Tour roster includes 74 returning anglers, headlined by 2021 Angler of the Year (AOY) Jacob Wheeler, REDCREST 2021 champion Dustin Connell, two-time AOY runner-up Ott DeFoe, Edwin Evers, Justin Lucas and the most decorated angler in the history of professional bass fishing, Kevin VanDam. They’ll be joined by six newcomers who qualified via the MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit – Dakota Ebare, Cole Floyd, Dylan Hays, Clabion Johns, Jeremy Lawyer and Ryan Salzman. Pros John Cox and Ron Nelson declined their invitations to the 2022 Bass Pro Tour to focus their efforts on other circuits, including the MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit.
The 2022 Bass Pro Tour will kick off Feb. 5-10, 2022, with Stage One at Caney Creek Reservoir, Lake D’Arbonne and Bussey Brake in Monroe-West Monroe, Louisiana.
“The professional anglers that compete on the Bass Pro Tour are the best in the world, and we look forward to seeing what they can do across nine of the finest fisheries in the United States,” said Don Rucks, Executive Vice President and General Manager for MLF. “We expect the upcoming 2022 season to be one of the most challenging, if not the most challenging and competitive seasons in the history of the MLF Bass Pro Tour. We couldn’t be more excited to kick off another fantastic Bass Pro Tour season in February in Monroe and West Monroe, Louisiana, on three fisheries that have never before hosted a professional tournament.”
In addition to millions of dollars in cash prizes, the 2022 Bass Pro Tour anglers are vying for valuable points in hopes of qualifying for the 2023 General Tire Heavy Hitters All-Star event and REDCREST 2023, the world championship of professional bass fishing. Each stage of the Bass Pro Tour includes six days of competition using the catch, weigh, immediate-release format, and is broadcast live on the Major League Fishing app, MyOutdoorTV (MOTV), and MajorLeagueFishing.com, totaling more than 450 hours of original programming. Fans can also follow the on-the-water action as it unfolds on the live SCORETRACKER® leaderboard.
The 2022 MLF Bass Pro Tour will air on the Discovery Channel beginning in July 2022 and the Outdoor Channel in early 2023.
For complete details and up-to-date tournament information, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF’s social media outlets at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
The 80 professional anglers that will compete on the 2022 Bass Pro Tour are:
- Casey Ashley, Donalds, S.C.
- Adrian Avena, Vineland, N.J.
- Josh Bertrand, Queen Creek, Ariz.
- Tommy Biffle, Wagoner, Okla.
- Zack Birge, Blanchard, Okla.
- Stephen Browning, Hot Springs, Ark.
- Brent Chapman, Lake Quivira, Kan.
- Luke Clausen, Spokane, Wash.
- Dustin Connell, Clanton, Ala.
- Brandon Coulter, Knoxville, Tenn.
- Cliff Crochet, Pierre Part, La.
- Mark Daniels Jr., Tuskegee, Ala.
- Mark Davis, Mount Ida, Ark.
- Ott DeFoe, Blaine, Tenn.
- Boyd Duckett, Guntersville, Ala.
- David Dudley, Lynchburg, Va.
- *Dakota Ebare, Brookeland, Texas
- Brent Ehrler, Redlands, Calif.
- James Elam, Tulsa, Okla.
- Paul Elias, Laurel, Miss.
- Edwin Evers, Talala, Okla.
- Todd Faircloth, Jasper, Texas
- *Cole Floyd, Leesburg, Ohio
- Shinichi Fukae, Osaka, Japan
- Anthony Gagliardi, Prosperity, S.C.
- Shaw Grigsby, Gainesville, Fla.
- Roy Hawk, Lake Havasu City, Ariz.
- *Dylan Hays, Hot Springs, Ark.
- Brett Hite, Phoenix, Ariz.
- Timmy Horton, Muscle Shoals, Ala.
- Randy Howell, Guntersville, Ala.
- *Clabion Johns, Social Circle, Ga.
- Alton Jones, Lorena, Texas
- Alton Jones Jr., Waco, Texas
- Kelly Jordon, Flint, Texas
- Gary Klein, Mingus, Texas
- Jeff Kriet, Ardmore, Okla.
- Jason Lambert, Michie, Tenn.
- Bobby Lane, Lakeland, Fla.
- Chris Lane, Guntersville, Fla.
- Russ Lane, Prattville, Ala.
- *Jeremy Lawyer, Sarcoxie, Mo.
- Jordan Lee, Cullman, Ala.
- Matt Lee, Cullman, Ala.
- Dave Lefebre, Erie, Pa.
- Jared Lintner, Arroyo Grande, Calif.
- Justin Lucas, Guntersville, Ala.
- Mike McClelland, Blue Eye, Mo.
- Cody Meyer, Star, Idaho
- Ish Monroe, Oakdale, Calif.
- Andy Montgomery, Blacksburg, S.C.
- Andy Morgan, Dayton, Tenn.
- John Murray, Spring City, Tenn.
- Britt Myers, Lake Wylie, S.C.
- Michael Neal, Dayton, Tenn.
- Takahiro Omori, Tokyo, Japan
- Cliff Pace, Petal, Miss.
- Keith Poche, Pike Road, Ala.
- Skeet Reese, Auburn, Calif.
- Marty Robinson, Lyman, S.C.
- Dean Rojas, Lake Havasu City, Ariz.
- Mark Rose, Wynne, Ark.
- Fred Roumbanis, Russellville, Ark.
- Bradley Roy, Lancaster, Ky.
- *Ryan Salzman, Huntsville, Ala.
- Terry Scroggins, San Mateo, Fla.
- Fletcher Shryock, Guntersville, Ala.
- Gerald Spohrer, Gonzales, La.
- Jeff Sprague, Wills Point, Texas
- Wesley Strader, Spring City, Tenn.
- Scott Suggs, Alexander, Ark.
- Randall Tharp, Port St. Joe, Fla.
- Bryan Thrift, Shelby, N.C.
- Kevin VanDam, Kalamazoo, Mich.
- Jonathan VanDam, Kalamazoo, Mich.
- Greg Vinson, Wetumpka, Ala.
- David Walker, Sevierville, Tenn.
- James Watson, Lampe, Mo.
- Jacob Wheeler, Harrison, Tenn.
- Jesse Wiggins, Addison, Ala.
* Denotes 2022 Bass Pro Tour Newcomer
2022 MLF Bass Pro Tour Schedule:
- Feb. 5-10 - Stage One at Caney Creek Reservoir, Lake D’Arbonne and Bussey Brake, Monroe-West Monroe, La.
- Feb. 19-24 - Stage Two at Lake Fork, Lake Fork, Texas
- March 2-7 - Stage Three at Lewis Smith Lake, Cullman, Ala.
- March 23-27 REDCREST 2022 at Grand Lake O’ the Cherokee, Tulsa, Okla.
- April 9-14 - General Tire Heavy Hitters 2022 All-Star Event at Lake Palestine, Tyler, Texas
- April 30- May 5 - Stage Four at Lake of the Ozarks, Osage Beach, Mo.
- June 4-9 - Stage Five at Watts Bar Lake, Spring City, Tenn.
- Aug. 6-11 - Stage Six at Lake Cayuga, Union Springs, N.Y.
- Sept. 10-15 - Stage Seven at Mille Lacs Lake, Onamia, Minn.
Fish with Bradley Roy Sweepstakes
Lancaster, KY – Today, Major League Fishing Bass Pro Tour angler Bradley Roy announced the second year of the Fish with Bradley sweepstakes. One lucky winner will fish with Bradley on Lake Cumberland in Jamestown, Kentucky, and take home a prize package worth over $1,500.
Roy grew up fishing Lake Cumberland and annually hosts his Bradley Roy High School Open bass tournament there.
Entry into the sweepstakes is free at www.bradleyroy.com and runs until January 31st. Fans can enter daily.
As part of the sweepstakes, the Lake Cumberland State Dock will provide lodging for the winner, who will spend two nights there and then a full day on the water with Bradley.
Details of the prizes
- One full-day of fishing with MLF pro Bradley Roy
- Custom bumper-to-bumper vehicle package from Covercraft
- One Ark fishing rod
- Grundens apparel
- Tackle packs from D&L Tackle and a bulk spool of Seaguar line
- Complete set of Prym1 fishing and hunting apparel
- Pair of signature series Solar Bat sunglasses
- Triton Boats and Mercury Marine apparel
- Angler’s Outpost and Railblaza USA gift cards
A complete list of rules and regulations is available on the contest page.
Cut 'em No Slack
Courtesy of Vance McCullough
“It felt like I was in a crash three times,” said my son, Hunter, telling me how a guy tried to snatch his truck out of a deep mudhole along the St. Mary’s River that separates our fair state from Georgia. On the 3rd attempt the guy broke his own tow hitch. Not the bolts that hold it onto the truck. Not the pin in the receiver. The hitch itself cracked and fractured. The manufacturer said they had never seen such. It also tore up my son’s 25-year-old F-150. Two life lessons here: 1) this is why you don’t give a teenager a brand spanking new truck to learn on (because at some point, he’s going to confuse that thing with a boat) and 2) throwing slack in your line and snatching it beyond tight will eventually break something.
It’s the same when setting the hook in heavy cover with strong line and a big rod.
I am often amazed at comments from those who say they frequently bend-out flipping hooks on big bass. It is critically important to match your gear – rod, line and hook must compliment one another. 80-lb braid and 14-fluoro call for different rod actions and will also dictate the minimum and maximum wire diameters that will penetrate without flexing too much.
But you already knew that.
One aspect where many anglers miss it (literally) is hook-setting technique.
“A lot of anglers that go an hour without a bite, the first thing they do when they get a bite is they drop their rod tip and get slack in their line and that’s definitely not what you want, especially with braid,” noted Randall Tharp as I picked his brain on the subject years ago. “A bass that really wants that bait is not gonna turn it loose. Every bite is different but basically you want to reel down, take every bit of slack out of that line and then jack him. You don’t want to drop that rod tip and create slack.”
Tharp explained that when an angler drops the rod tip immediately before setting the hook, he creates slack in the line at two critical moments – just before and just after hook penetration because the impact is so violent that it pulls the fish toward said angler and creates a slack line at the moment when an angler needs to get the fish’s head up and away from the cover. Also, a bass will use any slack after the hookup to throw the bait. Heavy punch weights give the fish a lot of leverage with which to do so.
I have moved to more of reel-down and tighten up approach in the years since and I can attest that the backbone in my rod coupled with braided line and a solid but not overly thick hook that features a smaller barb and penetrates quickly, will all conspire to grab fish by the jaw and not turn them loose.
Another trick that some anglers are still missing involves pinning a bass to the underside of a mat rather than cranking the fish straight up and out. Once their eyes are buried the fish will enter a catatonic state. At this point you have “two-and-a-half days to get to them and dig them out,” as Denny Brauer once put it.
Again, rod action matters. I will always remember the day I flipped three huge bass on Lake Toho, fishing as a co-angler, and each one ended up on top of the mat and each one threw the hook and just as quickly disappeared. A few days prior I had fished with another gentleman and watched the same thing happen to him on the lower Suwannee River where he lost a 7-pounder. There aren’t a lot of bass that size in the Suwannee. I was sick for him. Driving home from Toho that day I finally saw the light – ‘my old flippin’ stick is too stiff to use with these ‘new’ braided lines’ (braid was just becoming a staple on fishing reels at that time).
I’ve never forgotten that lesson and will err on the side of too much tip before I’ll snatch prize-winning bass out of the water and out of my life again.
Boat-flipping is a different story. It becomes necessary when cover is not thick enough to bury a fish’s face. In that case, as Bobby Lane and JT Kenney have both told me, “Just keep ‘em coming and don’t let up.”
As you’re shopping around for a heavy cover setup this year (maybe Santa didn’t get it right) keep in mind that a little more of a parabolic action, historically sought after in glass cranking rods, will greatly improve your results even when flipping and punching.
And when you feel that thump, don’t cut the fish any slack!
Plano EDGE Vertical Jig & Spy Bait Box
Takes Jig Storage to the Next Level
COLUMBIA, S.C. (December 1, 2021) — Plano is turning the world of specialized lure storage on its head with the introduction of the EDGE Vertical Jig and Spy Bait Box. Anglers that use vertical jigs, spy baits, and other smaller, specialized lures have a new storage solution. This inventive organizer stores and protects up to 52 premium vertical jigging and spy baits in a small space, allowing anglers to maximize their space in tackle lockers and bags.
The EDGE Vertical Jig and Spy Bait Box stores an unbelievable number of baits in a small space, keeping them protected and tangle-free in the process. The secret is the unique cradle system, which secures and protects up to 52 baits in the same dimensions as a standard EDGE 3700-series box. Even fully loaded, anglers can count on their baits staying protected thanks to a Dri-Loc O-ring seal, which keeps water out of the box when it’s closed, a WaterWick divider to soak up any moisture, and Rustrictor technology that delivers 360 degrees of rust-preventative protection to everything stored in the box.
Key Features:
• Holds up to 52 jigs, spy baits, or bucktails
• Innovative cradle protects and secures baits to keep them tangle-free
• WaterWick divider with reusable moisture-wicking packet
• Dri-Loc O-ring seal maintains waterproofing when closed
• Rustrictor technology delivers 360 degrees of rust-preventative protection
• EZ Label system for quick identification of contents
• DuraView crystal-clear polycarbonate lid
• One-handed latch design
MSRP: $29.99
Available: December 2021
AC Insider Podcast - Big Bass Tour Takeover!
This week Chris welcomes in KVD to talk deer hunting, the Bass Pro US Open, BPT, Redcrest and the Big Bass Tour! Scott Gordon, TD with the BBT also jumps on the Zoom machine to talk about the 2022 schedule and some of his favorite moments. Check it out!
Big Bass Tour Registration is Open for 2022 Dates!
Online registration for the 2022 Big Bass Tour season is now Open!
2022 will feature twelve events and over $1.8 million in prizes and payouts.
- Feb 4-6 | Harris Chain of Lakes, Florida
- Feb 25-27 | Lake Conroe, Texas
- March 11-13 | Clarks Hill, Georgia
- March 18-20 | Lake Norman, North Carolina
- April 1-3 | Lake Eufaula, Alabama
- April 8-10 | Table Rock Lake, Missouri
- April 22-24 | Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia (Spring)
- April 29-May 1 | Lake Murray, South Carolina
- May 13-15 | Lake Chickamauga, Tennessee
- Sept 30-Oct 2 | Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia (Fall)
- Oct 7-9 | Douglas Lake, Tennessee
- Oct 14-16 | Guntersville Lake, Alabama
Promotional rods will be allocated to the first 250 entrants (2 & 3 day entries only). Rods will go quickly for the first few spring events, so if you want to secure one, REGISTER NOW!!!!!
Humminbird Introduces Innovative Ice Shuttle as Part of the New Lineup of ICE HELIX Fish Finders
RACINE, Wis. (November 10, 2021) –– Humminbird has elevated its already best-in-class ICE HELIX lineup with even more intuitive Humminbird technology and a brand-new premium ice shuttle design, available on the all-new ICE HELIX 7 G4 and ICE HELIX 9 G4N models.
“The Humminbird ICE Shuttle was completely redesigned to create the best ice fishing experience possible,” said Humminbird Brand Manager Matt Cook. “The design was based on the experience and input from many accomplished ice anglers and guides, and the end result is a shuttle that is loaded with features and custom options for anglers to make the ICE HELIX their own.”
Additionally, the new ICE HELIX 7 G4 delivers an upgraded HD display, extended runtime, and the new Humminbird ICE Shuttle, along with industry-leading CHIRP sonar, Interference Rejection and built-in GPS and mapping capabilities.
The new Humminbird ICE Shuttle will help anglers keep gear and equipment within arm’s reach, while providing a platform that can be customized to how they fish.
- Master Power Switch: Easily turn power on and off, without disconnecting the battery.
- Quick-Connect SAE Power Cables: Power your ICE HELIX and optional accessories using quick-disconnect leads and charge the battery without removing any connections.
- Large Carry Handle: The large handle is designed for easy carry, even while wearing winter gloves easy.
- Modular Design: With multiple 1⁄4"-20 mounting points, you can customize the shuttle with the accessories you need, right where you need them.
- Dual Rod Holders: Keep your rods organized and secure while on the ice, in transport or storage.
- Transducer Cup: The moveable transducer cup also provides cable management to dial in cable length for varying ice thickness and fishing scenarios.
- Battery Protection: Keep your battery secure and out of the elements.
- Compatible with HELIX 7, 8, 9, and 10 CHIRP models
- Included on all ICE HELIX G4/G4N models
The new ICE HELIX 7 G4 models now include the new Humminbird ICE Shuttle, a 15Ah Norsk lithium battery, and a higher resolution HD display (1024 x 600).
Cook mentions, “The ICE HELIX 7 G4 The ICE HELIX 7 G4 is a powerful fish finder in a popular screen size. And when the ice melts, the All Season model includes everything you need to use it on a boat.”
Humminbird ICE HELIX 7 CHIRP GPS G4
- 7” High-definition display (1024 x 600)
- 4000 Watts Peak-to-Peak power
- 15Ah Lithium Battery & Charger
- Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar
- 3⁄4” target separation
- 1024 segment flasher view
- Six CHIRP interference rejection settings o Adjustable sonar zoom, up to 16x
- Split screen sonar views (Flasher and 2D sonar)
- Built-in GPS and Mapping
- Mark waypoints
- Built-in HB basemap
- MicroSD slot for LakeMaster/Navionics charts
- AutoChart Live Ice
- Shuttle mount, hardware, ice transducer and silicone screen cover
- Shuttle mount, hardware, transducer and silicone screen cover
MSRP: $899.99
Humminbird ICE HELIX 7 CHIRP GPS G4 All Season
- 7” High-definition display (1024 x 600)
- 4000 Watts Peak-to-Peak power
- 15Ah Lithium Battery & Charger
- Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar
- 3⁄4” target separation
- 1024 segment flasher view
- Six CHIRP interference rejection settings o Adjustable sonar zoom, up to 16x
- Split screen sonar views (Flasher and 2D sonar)
- Built-in GPS and Mapping
- Mark waypoints
- Built-in HB basemap
- MicroSD slot for LakeMaster/Navionics charts
- AutoChart Live Ice
- Shuttle mount, hardware, ice transducer and silicone screen cover
- Includes open water accessories (Gimbal bracket, power cable, XNT 9 HW T transducer and transducer suction cup mount)
MSRP: $999.99
For more information on the Humminbird ICE lineup, go to https://www.humminbird.com/ice.
Registration for 2022 Opens December 1st
Online registration for the 2022 Big Bass Tour season will open December 1st. 2022 will feature twelve events and over $1.8 million in prizes and payouts.
- Feb 4-6 | Harris Chain of Lakes, Florida
- Feb 25-27 | Lake Conroe, Texas
- March 11-13 | Clarks Hill, Georgia
- March 18-20 | Lake Norman, North Carolina
- April 1-3 | Lake Eufaula, Alabama
- April 8-10 | Table Rock Lake, Missouri
- April 22-24 | Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia (Spring)
- April 29-May 1 | Lake Murray, South Carolina
- May 13-15 | Lake Chickamauga, Tennessee
- Sept 30-Oct 2 | Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia (Fall)
- Oct 7-9 | Douglas Lake, Tennessee
- Oct 14-16 | Guntersville Lake, Alabama
Promotional rods will be allocated to the first 250 entrants (2 & 3 day entries only). Rods will go quickly for the first few spring events, so if you want to secure one, you'll need to be online early on Dec 1.
AC Insider Podcast - Thankful Beyond Belief!
This Thanksgiving Week Podcast is a great one. Chris & The boys welcome in Hobie Kayak Tournament of Champions Champ Kristine Fischer to the show to talk about Kayaking, co angling and more! Skippy with Rather Outdoors joins in to talk Pro-Staffing, the boys play the "This or That" game and more!!
2022 Bassmaster Elite Series Field Features 13 New Anglers
November 23, 2021
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — After an exciting 2021 Bassmaster Elite Series season that crowned seven first-time champions and drew over 12 million viewers to coverage of Bassmaster LIVE on FOX and the FOX Sports channels, B.A.S.S. announced the new field for the 2022 Elite Series today.
Joining the ranks of the most recognized circuit in sportfishing are 12 qualifiers from the hotly contested Bassmaster Opens as well as the TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation champion.
“2021 was a season of big catches, big drama and big excitement — all playing out on Bassmaster LIVE for millions of fans who tuned in to FOX Sports or streamed online,” said B.A.S.S. chairman and CEO Chase Anderson. “Now our team is eagerly looking forward to starting the 2022 season! Anglers across the world dream and work for years to earn a coveted Elite Series invitation, and we’re excited to welcome 13 incredibly talented anglers onto the biggest stage in fishing.”
This list of returning anglers includes Hank Cherry, who reached legendary status as just the fourth angler ever to win back-to-back Bassmaster Classics. Seth Feider notched four Top 10s en route to winning 2021 Angler of the Year honors, while Josh Stracnerhad to climb over four other anglers in the final event on the St. Lawrence River to win Rookie of the Year. 2021 Elite Series champions Jason Christie, Jeff Gustafson, Taku Ito, Caleb Kuphall, Lee Livesay, Wes Logan, Bill Lowen, Bryan New and Bryan Schmitt will all be back again to do battle on some of the country’s best bass fisheries.
They will be joined by a talented crop of rookies that includes Japanese anglers Masayuki Matsushita and Daisuke Aoki, who finished second and third respectively in the Falcon Rods Bassmaster Opens Angler of the Year overall points race. The rookie anglers who qualified through the Central Opens are former Bassmaster College Classic Bracket winner Cody Huff of Ava, Mo., Jay Przekurat of Stevens Point, Wis., and Joseph Webster of Winfield, Ala. Another former Bassmaster College Classic Bracket winner, Jacob Foutz of Charleston, Tenn., and Josh Douglas of Isle, Minn., qualified via the Southern Opens. Jonathan Kelley of Old Forge, Pa., and Alex Redwine of Blue Ash, Ohio, earned invitations through the Northern Opens to round out the rookie class of Opens anglers.
Matty Wong of Culver City, Calif., will also join the rookie class after winning the TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Championship on Louisiana’s Ouachita River.
Three former Elite Series anglers who qualified through the Opens Series points standings are joining the Elite field; however, any angler who has combined earnings of at least $500,000 with B.A.S.S., FLW and MLF is not considered a rookie.
Former Elite Series Rookie of the Year Jacob Powroznik of North Prince George, Va., won the Falcon Rods Opens Angler of the Year title to earn his invitation to rejoin the Elites. He’ll be joined by David Williams of Maiden, N.C., (No. 1 in Southern Opens points) and Mike Iaconelli of Pittsgrove, N.J., (No. 2 in Northern Opens points), the only angler to ever win a Bassmaster Classic, Bassmaster Angler of the Year, B.A.S.S. Nation Championship, Bassmaster Open and Bassmaster Kayak Series tournament.
“The Elite Series field is absolutely stacked and fans are going to love learning about new anglers as well as watching their favorites compete for a place in the B.A.S.S. record books,” said Tournament Director-Elite Series Lisa Talmadge. “I can’t wait for the 2022 season to start.”
The 2022 Elite Series schedule will begin Feb. 10-13 with the Bassmaster Elite at St. Johns River in Palatka, Fla. From there, the tournament trail will wind through eight states for nine events as anglers compete for cash and prizes and attempt to qualify for the 2023 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk.
Each tournament will begin with the full field of anglers on Days 1 and 2 before the field is cut to 47 for the semifinal round on Day 3. Only the Top 10 remaining anglers will fish the final day of each event with a $100,000 first-place prize on the line.
2022 Bassmaster Elite Series Field
Daisuke Aoki, Yamanashi, Japan
Matt Arey, Shelby, N.C.
Justin Atkins, Florence, Ala.
Todd Auten, Lake Wylie, S.C.
Drew Benton, Blakely, Ga.
Stetson Blaylock, Benton, Ark.
Scott Canterbury, Odenville, Ala.
Brandon Card, Salisbury, N.C.
Hank Cherry, Lincolnton, N.C.
Jason Christie, Park Hill, Okla.
Gary Clouse, Winchester, Tenn.
Rick Clunn, Ava, Mo.
Brandon Cobb, Greenwood, S.C.
Keith Combs, Huntington, Texas
Drew Cook, Cairo, Ga.
John Cox, DeBary, Fla.
John Crews, Salem, Va.
Clent Davis, Montevallo, Ala.
Greg DiPalma, Millville, N.J.
Josh Douglas, Isle, Minn.
Bob Downey, Hudson, Wis.
Seth Feider, New Market, Minn.
Austin Felix, Eden Prairie, Minn.
Jacob Foutz, Charleston, Tenn.
Marc Frazier, Newnan, Ga.
Micah Frazier, Newnan, Ga.
David Fritts, Lexington, N.C.
Darold Gleason, Many, La.
Buddy Gross, Chickamauga, Ga.
Jeff Gustafson, Keewatin, Ontario, Canada
Greg Hackney, Gonzales, La.
Skylar Hamilton, Dandridge, Tenn.
Justin Hamner, Northport, Ala.
Ray Hanselman Jr., Del Rio, Texas
Jamie Hartman, Greenbrier, Ark.
Matt Herren, Ashville, Ala.
Derek Hudnall, Denham Springs, La.
Cody Huff, Ava, Mo.
Mike Huff, Corbin, Ky.
Mike Iaconelli, Pittsgrove, N.J.
Taku Ito, Chiba, Japan
Carl Jocumsen, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
Chris Johnston, Peterborough, Ontario, Canada
Cory Johnston, Cavan, Ontario, Canada
Jonathan Kelley, Old Forge, Pa.
Steve Kennedy, Auburn, Ala.
Kenta Kimura, Osaka, Japan
Koby Kreiger, Alva, Fla.
Caleb Kuphall, Mukwonago, Wis.
Shane LeHew, Catawba, N.C.
Brandon Lester, Fayetteville, Tenn.
Lee Livesay, Longview, Texas
Wes Logan, Springville, Ala.
Ed Loughran III, Richmond, Va.
Bill Lowen, Brookville, Ind.
Scott Martin, Clewiston, Fla.
Masayuki Matsushita, Tokoname-shi, Japan
Mark Menendez, Paducah, Ky.
Chad Morgenthaler, Reeds Spring, Mo.
Brock Mosley, Collinsville, Miss.
Paul Mueller, Naugatuck, Conn.
David Mullins, Mt. Carmel, Tenn.
Bryan New, Saluda, S.C.
Brandon Palaniuk, Rathdrum, Idaho
Luke Palmer, Coalgate, Okla.
Chad Pipkens, Holt, Mich.
Clifford Pirch, Payson, Ariz.
Jacob Powroznik, North Prince George, Va.
Cliff Prince, Palatka, Fla.
Jay Przekurat, Stevens Point, Wis.
KJ Queen, Catawba, N.C.
Alex Redwine, Blue Ash, Ohio
Tyler Rivet, Raceland, La.
Matt Robertson, Kuttawa, Ky.
Pat Schlapper, Eleva, Wis.
Bryan Schmitt, Deale, Md.
Bernie Schultz, Gainesville, Fla.
Hunter Shryock, Ooltewah, Tenn.
Josh Stracner, Vandiver, Ala.
Caleb Sumrall, New Iberia, La.
Gerald Swindle, Guntersville, Ala.
Jesse Tacoronte, Orlando, Fla.
Frank Talley, Temple, Texas
Patrick Walters, Summerville, S.C.
Joseph Webster, Winfield, Ala.
Kyle Welcher, Opelika, Ala.
Clark Wendlandt, Leander, Texas
Brad Whatley, Bivins, Texas
Jake Whitaker, Fairview, N.C.
David Williams, Maiden, N.C.
Jason Williamson, Wagener, S.C.
Matty Wong, Culver City, Calif.
Jay Yelas, Lincoln City, Ore.
Chris Zaldain, Fort Worth, Texas
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Hatfield and Leary Win Back to Back ABT 100 Events
By Jason Duran
The Alabama Bass Trail 100 Series completed its inaugural season at Lake Guntersville with one hundred teams competing for $100,000 total purse and a first-place cash prize of $25,000. Teams were also competing for bragging rights and the two Angler of the Year heavy weight belts for the team with the most AOY points.
The team of Steve Hatfield and Jim Leary came into this event leading in AOY points. With their win in the previous event at Lake Eufaula and a top ten finish at the first event at Lay Lake, they were the team to beat. Jim and Steve were one of the team favorites in this event because Jim has logged lots of hours guiding on the lake and has a good knowledge of the patterns for this time of year. They started their morning on a spot that didn’t produce as they had hoped and soon moved to their second spot that was occupied by another angler.
They then moved to a third location just outside Roseberry Creek where Jim found fish in practice on Monday. Using his Lowrance Live Sight he saw there were lots of fish schooled up in this area. “This area was loaded with bait fish from the mouth of the creek all the way back. The spot serves as a travel lane for bass looking to feed up for the winter.” A key for them was this area had eelgrass just off the main river and a creek channel feeding back into Roseberry. “At times it seemed that current was causing an eddy to form and bass would set up to feed in that area.” When they arrived at this spot mid-morning, they found the bass ready to bite.
They targeted these fish using a swim bait and made long casts parallel along the grass edge and slowly reel it back to the boat. Jim shared, “using my electronics, I learned this week how to make the bass bite. I have fished this area many times in the past and would retrieve the bait too fast, but this week I learned that they wanted the retrieve a lot slower.” On this spot alone they culled out the previous fish they had caught and added to their bag a couple of fish in the over 5-pound range. Mid-morning, they had a limit of over 25 pounds and continued to work the area targeting the larger fish using the same swim bait.
“The owner of Big G tackle made some special colors of swim baits for us to use for this event. They were in 4 inch and 6 inch sizes, and we used them to target fish in 4-8 feet of water. We teamed it up with a ½ OZ swimbait head and really used the electronics to watch how they reacted to the bait.”
When they left this area in the afternoon, they tried a couple more areas unsuccessfully and were unable to provide any upgrades to their bag. Just before weigh-in they stopped at a spot and caught another solid fish culling up to the 27.35 pounds of Lake Guntersville bass. At weigh-in time they crossed the scales as one of the first few teams claiming the lead early and holding on to the end of the day. For the second time this year they collected a $25,000 check, held on to their lead as AOY and hoisted the highly coveted heavy-weight belts. With over $50,000 in winnings and bonuses they have had a very successful year on the ABT 100.
The second-place team of Ken Walters and Dallas Weldon also entered this event in the hunt for AOY with a top 15 finish at Lay Lake and a second-place finish at Lake Eufaula. During the first day of practice Ken said he caught fish in practice on the way they had planned on catching them. After practice however, they decided they didn’t just come to this event to do well but to win. They were only 6 points out of the AOY race, and they wanted to win and decided to abandon this area for better options.
Dallas caught a six pounder and a four pounder in practice on Wednesday, so they decided to go to his area on tournament day. The area was located on the lower end of the lake, and they targeted fish using shad colored swim baits made by True Bass and Scottsboro Tackle Company in 10 -15 feet of water. They were fishing for suspended fish not worried about the change in weather because Dallas “felt the change in weather would make more of them suspend.”
The key for them was using electronics to target these suspended fish and catch them. “We did all we could in this event but at the end of the day, we came up just a few points shy of the AOY. If it wasn’t for the first-place team winning this event, we would have won AOY.” They crossed the scales with 22.47 pounds including a 5.97-pound big fish. This was enough earning them a $12,500 payday.
Third place went to the team of Brent Crowe and Derek Remitz with a total of 19.77 pounds. The team has been fishing Lake Guntersville a long time and both have very successful guiding businesses. Brent recently won the Toyota Championship on Pickwick claiming $235,000. They both shared, “things are either going your way or they aren’t, and recently they have been going our way.”
The key for them in this event came down to good decision making. Derek had found a grass mat in practice that he felt was going to produce the fish they needed. However, with all the rain and lake changes, that grass mat disappeared. Though the mat disappeared, they knew the fish didn’t, so it was just a matter of making a key decision and adjusting to find them. They quickly learned that because the mat was gone they weren’t going to be able to catch them flipping, like they had hoped. Making the adjustment to using a swimbait and a top water they learned they the fish were still there. The first cast they made using a walking style bait resulted in a keeper. 32 casts later Brent decided to make a change to the Skinny Dipper Swimbait and started catching a few here and there.
They lost a couple fish early in the area and thought that was going to hurt them. They spent most of the day in this area “having to talk each other into staying in the area several times.” Derek said at this level it “really is about making good decisions.” They decided to go back to where they lost the fish earlier and when they pulled up, they caught two fish- one over four pounds. Within an hour they culled everything from the morning.
“On our way back to weigh-in we had a few minutes left and made another key decision. I told Brent to go try an area just across the lake from blast off, and he agreed. We pulled up on the location, and in just a few casts, he caught a 4-pound fish.” That upgrade gave them 19.77 pounds securing a $10,000 payday including a bonus from Garmin.
The top five standings are below for a complete list of standings please visit: https://www.alabamabasstrail100.org/lake-guntersville-results/
Download and listen to the ABT Podcast on your favorite Podcast app by searching for “Alabama Bass Trail Podcast.” The Podcast is released each week on Tuesday.
The sponsors of the 2021 Alabama Bass Trail 100 include; Phoenix Bass Boats, Bill Penney Automotive Group, Garmin, America’s First Federal Credit Union, Sweet Home Alabama, Alabama Tourism Department, T-H Marine Supplies, Wedowee Marine, Big Bite Bait Company, Black Rifle Coffee Company, Anheuser - Busch, Inc., fishalabama.org, and American Baitworks.
Schedule Announced For 2022 Bassmaster Kayak Series With New AOY Award
In 2022, anglers on the Bassmaster Kayak Series powered by TourneyX will visit six states while pursuing the new Old Town Bassmaster Kayak Angler of the Year title.
Photo by Mark Cisneros/B.A.S.S.
November 22, 2021
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — A series that has been an overwhelming hit with anglers from Day 1 now has its much-anticipated next schedule in place.
On Monday, B.A.S.S. officials announced the full slate for the 2022 Bassmaster Kayak Series powered by TourneyX with five regular-season events and the 2022 Bassmaster Kayak Series Championship that will coincide with the 2022 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk.
The series will visit six states and for the first time will feature the Old Town Bassmaster Kayak Series Angler of the Year award with $5,000 cash and a top-of-the-line Old Town kayak going to the angler who accumulates the most points during the regular season.
“In just two years we’ve been amazed by the growth of the series,” said B.A.S.S. Nation Director Jon Stewart, who oversees the Kayak Series. “We knew kayak fishing was experiencing major growth — that’s why we started this back in 2020. But I’m not sure we had any idea just how popular it was.
“It’s been really fun to watch anglers enjoy this trail as the sport continues to evolve.”
The 2022 schedule will begin on one of the big bass capitals of the country as the Kayak Series visits Lake Fork in Alma, Texas, Feb. 5-6 for one of three two-day events this season. In the past, all events except the championship have been one-day tournaments. Nebraska’s Nate Gloria took home the Lake Fork title in 2021 with a five-bass limit measuring 98 inches while Arkansas pro Cody Milton earned a Century Belt with five bass measuring 100.5 inches in 2020’s inaugural tournament on this big bass factory.
From there, the next stop will be Richard B. Russell Lake in Anderson, S.C., for the two-day Bassmaster Kayak Series Championship, March 2-3. The tournament field will be comprised of qualifiers from the 2021 Kayak Series — and though the tournament will actually conclude on March 3, the winner will be revealed March 4 and receive a first-place prize of at least $20,000 on stage at Bon Secours Wellness Arena before the first-round weigh-in of the Bassmaster Classic.
The inaugural 2021 Championship tournament on Possum Kingdom Lake near Fort Worth, Texas, featured a record-breaking performance by hometown angler Mark Pendergraf who won with a two-day, 10 bass total of 209.25 inches — the highest two-day total in TourneyX history.
“That record-setting limit is the equivalent to weighing in a 30-plus-pound bag,” explained Stewart. “What a way to introduce the Classic crowd to the hammers on the Kayak Series!”
Among the Championship qualifiers in Anderson will be Bassmaster Elite Series veteran Mike Iaconelli from New Jersey, who won a Kayak Series event last year on the Upper Chesapeake Bay, as well as Tennessee angler Jim Davis, who became the first two-time Kayak Series winner with a victory last year on the Upper Mississippi River in La Crosse, Wis.
“The series is not even three years old and it’s already developing its own rich history,” Stewart said. “Ike winning an event was a big deal in the fishing industry. He touted it himself as one of the accomplishments he’s most proud of — and that’s from a guy whohas won a Classic, won Angler of the Year, won Elite Series events.
“Several big sticks are also emerging. Some guys are so serious about kayak fishing that they show up at every event with a genuine chance at winning.”
After the Championship in South Carolina, the Kayak Series will visit the Harris Chain of Lakes in Leesburg, Fla., on March 19, Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees in Grove, Okla., on April 16 and Lewis Smith Lake in Jasper, Ala., on May 21. All of those venues have been regular destinations for major B.A.S.S. events, and one — Grand Lake — was the site of the Bassmaster Classic in 2013 and 2016.
The Kayak Series will conclude with the third two-day event of the season on Pickwick Lake in Counce, Tenn., on Oct. 8-9. That event will decide the final Old Town AOY race and the final qualifiers for the 2023 Bassmaster Kayak Series Championship. The Top 25 anglers in the AOY points race along with qualifiers from Bassmaster regional and state championships will earn a spot in the Kayak Series Championship. Anglers will earn points in every regular-season tournament with their lowest finish dropped to determine the final Angler of the Year standings.
As in the past, anglers will use the TourneyX app and photograph their bass on special measuring boards to submit their catches. The angler with the most inches of bass will be the winner. All 2021 winners had at least 85 inches of bass.
Registration for all 2022 events will open Jan. 11 on Bassmaster.com.
Diving gulls and sonar skills lead college anglers to $1 Million
Courtesy of Alan McGuckin - Dynamic Sponsorships
Auburn teammates Logan Parks and Tucker Smith had never fished Table Rock Lake prior to this weekend’s Bass Pro Shops U.S. Open National Bass Fishing Amateur Team Championship presented by Toyota.
But diving gulls and sharp sonar skills find the two young anglers each $500,000 richer, plus proud owners of two all new 2022 Toyota Tundras, and Nitro bass boats.
“This is the greatest day of my life,” said Parks on stage as his tear ducts flooded while standing near angling icons Kevin VanDam, Roland Martin, and Jimmy Houston.
“I just want to thank my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, because Tucker and I have prayed the same prayer all year before tournament blast-off each morning, and today, He answered in a big way!” he added.
Success on the water is hardly new to these two Alabama natives. In fact, Parks, age 23, and Smith, age 20, recently achieved “Carhartt Bassmaster College Series Team of the Year” honors with B.A.S.S..
Sea gulls diving on schools of bait being smashed by Table Rock’s largemouth, spotted, and smallmouth bass gave the winning team the visual roadmap to the winning pattern, and their superior skills using Garmin’s Livescope sonar technology sealed the million-dollar deal.
Smith said a 3/8-ounce Damiki rig tied to 12-pound line was the winning lure, and that most of the bites occurred about 20-feet beneath the surface over 100-feet of water.
Parks and Smith certainly weren’t the only winners, as Bass Pro Shops owner Johnny Morris and presenting sponsor Toyota donated an astonishing $1,578,932 to the National Fish Habitat Partnership to restore bass habitat in America’s aging reservoirs.
“Bass Pro Shops and Toyota have long enjoyed a great partnership, and much of the reason why is because both companies are committed to conservation,” said Bob Carter, Executive Vice President, Toyota North America.
Indeed, it was an event like bass fishing has never seen this past weekend in the Ozark Mountains -- thanks to Johnny Morris and his sponsor partners such as Toyota.
More than a million bucks was donated for bass fishing habitat restoration, and a million more in top prize money was won by two young talented anglers whose lives are forever changed in a manner they had only previously prayed about.
Need a Smile? Take a Kid Fishing
Courtesy of Luke Stoner - Dynamic Sponsorships
It’s truly hard to wrap your mind around the different layers of goodness included in this weekend’s U.S. Open National Bass Fishing Amateur Team Championship on Table Rock Lake.
Not only will two anglers win a mind-boggling $1 million dollar first place payout along with two 2022 Toyota Tundra + Nitro Boat packages, but all fifty teams who qualified for Sunday’s final day will take home a check, and another million dollars will be donated to conservation efforts specific to improving our nation’s freshwater fisheries thanks to Bass Pro Shops and Toyota.
Still, the highlight of this whole event to me has been the special U.S. Open Kids Contest. Outdoors obsessed kids from all over the country submitted videos for the contest to be chosen by Johnny Morris and the Bass Pro Shops leadership team. In total fourteen different winners were chosen and every single one of them won a 2022 Bass Tracker Classic XL boat, motor, and trailer package.
If that wasn’t enough, the all fourteen winners were gifted rods and reels, BPS tackle, piles of gear, a $500 Bass Pro Shops gift card, an all expense paid trip to Big Cedar Lodge here in Missouri’s Ozark Mountains, and a chance to compete in a special kids fishing tournament taking place today on Table Rock.
The young anglers spent the last two days breaking in their new boats with pro anglers and bass fishing legends like Kevin VanDam, Rick Clunn, Mark Daniels Jr., Jimmy Houston, Mike McClelland, Roland Martin, and David Walker to name a few. Learning some Table Rock tricks and secrets of the pros with a seemingly permanent smile plastered to each of their faces.
The quotes overheard at the Long Creek Boat Dock as the contest winners came back for a quick lunch break couldn’t help but leave you smiling and laughing.
Not the typical quotes you hear on the dock at a big time bass tournament, but these kids and the genuine passion for fishing that pours out of them embodies the best parts of our sport and this event in particular. Never underestimate the impact a few hours of fishing off the bank or a day in a bass boat can have on both youths and on us.
This weekend’s events serve as a great reminder to take a kid fishing or into the outdoors whenever the opportunity presents itself; along with doing everything we can to protect our natural resources and America’s wild places so future generations can continue to revel in their beauty and wonder.
How KVD would fish for $1 Million this weekend
Courtesy of Alan McGuckin - Dynamic Sponsorships
Bass fishing’s living legends like Roland Martin, Jimmy Houston, Larry Nixon and Kevin VanDam stood on a frosty boat dock Friday morning helping Johnny Morris send-off 350 amateur teams to begin Day 1 of competition at the $1 Million-dollar first place prize US Open National Bass Fishing Amateur Team Championship on Table Rock Lake.
And while VanDam and the other icons are not competing in this amateur event, he graciously shared his thoughts on how he would approach a chance at the life-changing prize money.
“Even though I live in Michigan, because of my 30-year relationship with Johnny Morris and all the great people at Bass Pro Shops’ headquarters here, Table Rock is actually the one major bass fishing reservoir I’ve fished more than any other in America,” says VanDam.
That said, the man most consider to be the greatest bass angler of all time, is pretty confident what pattern he’d tell these 700 amateur anglers to execute, and it relies heavily on chasing the wind and rock transition banks.
“I’ve learned a lot on my own here, but I’ve also had some incredible tutoring on Table Rock from local legends like Stacey King, Brian Snowden and Charlie Campbell, and I’ll promise they’d all tell you that you gotta learn to fish by the hour, because weather and wind affect this lake in a huge way constantly,” he emphasizes.
Conditions this week have water temps around 58, with normal lake levels and good water clarity – just about perfect for great autumn fishing here according to VanDam.
“You’re going to have a lot of teams looking at their sonar for three days, and chasing the deep jigging spoon bite, and there’s no doubt that can get you 18-pounds of spotted bass per day. But I’d stick to my strengths and chase those magical little 100 yard stretches of shoreline where the rocks transition from one kind to another, with plenty of wind blowing on them,” he says.
When asked what three lures he would tie on first, VanDam had no hesitation.
“I’d have a Strike King 5XD crawfish colored crankbait, a 3/4-ounce willow bladed spinnerbait, and because they’re allowed to use it in this tournament, I’d have an Alabama Rig tied on too,” he grinned.
“A lotta guys will throw the old legendary Wiggle Warts, but I like the 5XD because it runs a little deeper and targets fish that don’t get pressured as hard,” he added.
Speaking of pressure, one can only imagine how 700 amateur anglers must feel knowing they’ve got a shot to win life-changing prize money. And they’re surely glad VanDam isn’t competing in this unprecedented derby.
SPRO® Introduces New Colors of Aruku Shad
- Bumble Bee
- Blue Gill
- Bonsai
- Blue Perch
- Barbie
- Crawfish Gold
- Clear
- Chrome Purple
- Craw Chartreuse
- Frozen Perch
- Golden Dragon
- G Nugget
- Golden Perch
- Icy Barbie
- Killer Gill
- Marble Brown
- Purple Perch
- Pink Perch
- Purple Neon
- Pearl Shad
- Real Perch
- Rosey Perch
- Red Tiger
Guaranteed Rate Joins Major League Fishing as Official Sponsor for 2022 Season
TULSA, Okla. (Nov. 18, 2021) – Major League Fishing (MLF), the world’s premier tournament-fishing organization, is pleased to announce that Guaranteed Rate, one of the top 5 retail mortgage lenders in the United States, is now an Official Sponsor of the 2022 MLF Bass Pro Tour and 2022 MLF Cups.
“We are thrilled to welcome Guaranteed Rate to our growing list of major brands that have stepped into the thriving sport of professional bass fishing,” said Jim Wilburn, MLF President and CEO. “Our core values align perfectly with Guaranteed Rate’s, and we are looking forward to bringing our customer-centric companies together for a productive and prosperous 2022 season.”
Guaranteed Rate will be prominently featured in all 2022 MLF Bass Pro Tour and Cup events, including commercials and in-show billboards. The company will also be showcased on the league’s Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs), competition jerseys and boats at select Cup events.
“Guaranteed Rate is excited to partner with Major League Fishing and support their events featuring some of the best bass anglers in the world,” said Steve McNelley, Vice President of Sports Marketing and Partnerships at Guaranteed Rate.
Founded in 2000, Guaranteed Rate delivers competitive pricing, innovative mortgage products and unmatched expertise from top-producing loan officers. The company is well known as a leader in digital financial services, developing and offering highly efficient and transparent processes and products that enable industry-leading customer satisfaction and exponential growth.
For more information about Guaranteed Rate, visit Rate.com. To learn more about MLF tournaments, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com.
Football Season
Courtesy of Vance McCollough
Florida boy checking in here with a word about the football jig. Yes, Florida. Yes, football jig. True, there’s a lot of shallow grass and tidewater down here, but being a major exporter of phosphorus, we have a ton of strip pits too – including world famous Bienville Plantation as well as the 50-acre pit I grew up on. They are perfect places to learn how to use various structure-oriented techniques, including the football jig.
I got my paper graded while fishing in Mexico on an autumn day behind Denny Brauer years ago. My assignment was to produce a video for AnglersChannel.com – and I did, but I mixed a little fun with my business. Denny whacked 30-plus 2-pounders on a Carolina rig. I stopped filming him long enough to catch a limit that weighed in the mid-to-upper-20’s on a football jig.
Denny finally picked up the jig and caught a 7-pounder as the sun squatted on a nearby hill and cast that golden, last-hour-of-the-day tone to close out my video beautifully.
As our guide motored us back to camp Denny said, “You done good. You done real good. You’ll be doing even better if you reach in that cooler and grab me another beer.”
Best fishing day of my life.
And I owe it to the football jig.
The lure can give you an outstanding experience this fall as the waters continue to cool and bass in many lakes begin set up on structure.
Some things to consider are trailers and line size. Probably want to stick with fluoro to get the lure down and maintain bottom contact. Fourteen-pound line would be a good starting point, heavier as needed, probably wouldn’t go any lighter because you have to set the hook though a weed guard.
Trailers will dictate action and that’s everything with a jig. Rage Craws are perfect when fish are active. Straight-tailed lures work better when fish are fussy. Might even want to go old school and put an Uncle Josh Pork Trailer on the back of that jig when the water gets really cold – jumpsuit and sponsor patches optional but highly recommended. Not only will they bite better, but the fish will hold the lure much longer and give you a better chance to set the hook. Trust me. Try it.
The basic jig design dates back to ancient Egypt. Seriously. There’s nothing new under the sun. Explorer William Bartram noted upon his first visit to Florida in the 1700’s that the natives were catching huge bass on “a jig and a bob.” The lure has been around that long because it is versatile. A weight, a hook, and a skirt. What you do to impart action, or a lack thereof, is up to you. That may be what intimidates anglers from trying a jig. Just do this . . . go fishing and take only jigs with you. You will see that it is a versatile design. You will catch fish. Big fish. And you will gain the confidence necessary to fish a jig when conditions call for it.
And cooling autumn weather that pushes fish off the flats and onto structure calls for a football jig if ever anything did.
B.A.S.S. Sponsors New Children’s Book Designed To Inspire Girls To Fish
November 17, 2021
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — A new children’s book launching later this summer inspires young children — and especially young girls — to try fishing as a family activity. Layla’s Big Bass was born from one family’s search for fishing-themed storybooks to read their young daughter at bedtime.
“My husband and I have enjoyed fishing together for years, and it’s an activity we always knew our daughter would join in on, too,” explained author Laura Bartolozzi. “I tried to find bass fishing-specific books for little girls, but truly none existed and, frankly, my husband and I were both sick of reading stories about unicorns and princesses to our daughter Layla Grace.”
The story follows Layla as she pursues her dream of catching the biggest bass in the lake and discovers that nothing compares to the feeling of a tug on her line.
Bartolozzi’s difficulty finding a fishing story for young girls is not surprising. Despite women’s interest in fishing at an all-time high — an estimated 17.9 million participants in 2020 — according to a survey by the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation, a whopping 82% of women who enjoy fishing say they do not see themselves represented. According to a separate RBFF study, 1 in 5 Americans are more likely now to try fishing than they were before the pandemic. Among parents, the statistic is 1 in 4, underscoring the importance of Layla’s Big Bass in helping young girls discover a fishing role model.
“I hope the story of Layla resonates with young girls,” said Bartolozzi. “I want girls to be empowered by Layla’s aspirations and know they can attain whatever they put their minds to on or off the water.”
B.A.S.S., the worldwide authority on bass fishing, is sponsoring the book and using its platforms to help inspire families as they begin exploring the great outdoors. Go Out{side} by Bassmaster seeks to educate outdoor enthusiasts of any skill level on a variety of outdoor topics. Go Out{side} Ambassadors and successful tournament anglers Kristine Fischer, who had a Top 15 finish in the co-angler division at the 2021 Basspro.com Bassmaster Open at Pickwick Lake and won the Hobie Bass Open Series Tournament of Champions as a kayak angler, and Cricket Coates, a 2021 Mossy Oak Fishing Bassmaster High School National Championship presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors qualifier, provide their deep expertise whilst also serving as role models to incoming female anglers.
Successful female anglers of all levels are praising the message of Layla’s Big Bass.
“This book is a great way to show girls that you do not have to do ‘girl things’ like dance, pageants or cheerleading, and I think it is amazing that B.A.S.S. is sponsoring this children's book,” said Alexis Grandstaff, a two-time Bassmaster High School National Championship qualifier and member of the 2021 Bassmaster High School All-American Team presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors. “As a child, I would have loved to hear stories about fishing. I would have wanted to be just like Layla!”
Lainie Holbert, half of the all-female Riverside Bass Team who notched a win and two Top 10 finishes during the 2021 Mossy Oak Fishing Bassmaster Junior Series season, echoed that sentiment. “I think if I would have had a female fishing role model earlier in my life or could’ve read about females succeeding in fishing it would’ve accelerated my desire to fish at an earlier age. I was a lucky one and had an older brother who I watched and wanted to be like. A lot of girls don’t have that.”
The desire to catch big bass, just like Layla, can start early in childhood for both boys and girls.
“I started fishing when I was two,” said Sarah Swindle, Holbert’s fishing partner. Swindle reports fishing against grown men by the time she was seven and even, “won a trophy for being the youngest fishermen in the league!”
Order a copy of Layla’s Big Bass online or visit the author’s website at laurabartolozzi.com to learn more.
Its All About the Journey.....
This week Chris & The boys welcome in 2022 Elite Series Rookie Matty Wong to the show to talk about his BASS Nation win, qualifying for the Classic and his invitation to the 2022 Elite Series. This is a great show and chance to meet the next generation of Elite Series Anglers.
Kristine Fischer Wins Hobie Bass Open Series Tournament of Champions and Becomes First Woman to Hold the Title
COLUMBIA, S.C. (November 16, 2021) – The 2021 Hobie Bass Open Series Tournament of Champions, a kayak bass fishing championship event, was held on Lake Eufala, Alabama from Friday, November 12th to Sunday, November 14th. Only the Top 50 anglers in Hobie BOS Angler of the Year standings qualify for this three-day championship style event and the angler with the five longest bass (in inches) on each day will take home the crown and a grand prize of $35,000.
Going into day one of the event, Fenwick and Abu Garcia Pro Kristine Fischermentioned “I had never fished Eufala but the research I did leading up to the event led me to believe the fishing was going to be tough. It was a three-day event, so I wanted to avoid areas that only held resident fish and concentrate more on areas that would reload over the course of the event. I knew Eufala had a reputation of having a great offshore bite, specifically live scoping brush piles, and I knew that would likely play in this event. However, my strengths consist of power fishing shallow, so I was determined to find an area where I could fish my strengths, and not worry about the “dock talk” regarding people catching them good out deep. I covered and eliminated a lot of water and had a tough practice. I was able to get a few bites in practice fishing main lake bank grass, and bank grass around the mouths of the pockets. I knew we had a cold front coming in day two, and a freeze warning for Sunday, so I looked at the east side of the lake knowing the northwest wind would blow in that warmer main lake water.
Fischer grabbed her Fenwick rods, Abu Garcia reels, committed to her pattern on day one and put up 77.00” for her best five fish, putting her in 11th place going into day two.
On day two, Fischer continued her pattern of throwing a Berkley Cane Walker in the mornings, punching bank grass once the sun was overhead and committed to fishing new water. Her second day total was 80.50” for her five longest fish, bringing her total to 157.50” and sitting in 3rd place going into the third and final day of competition.
Going into the last of competition, Fischer mentioned, “I was fishing new water every single day so I wouldn’t lean too hard on the few stretches of bank grass that seemed to hold fish. Isolated clumps and any subtle point in the grass were key for me. I was lucky enough to have a large area all to myself for the final day.”
Starting off with the final day of competition with a 19.00” kicker, Fischer was able to put together her biggest bag of the tournament by slowing down and catching her limit on a fluke and a stickbait, ending with 83.00” for her five longest bass which totaled 240.50” over the three days of competition and earning herself the 1st place trophy and $35,000.
In line with winning the Hobie BOS Tournament of Champions, Fischer came into the tournament sitting in 13th place for the Hobie BOS Angler of the Year standings. Fischer was very close to also claiming that title but came up very short in 2nd place.
Fenwick and Abu Garcia’s Vice President of Marketing Jon Schlosser mentioned, “First off, we really want to say how proud we are of Kristine. Not only for this remarkable achievement and win to add to her laundry list of tournament finishes but for how she paves the way for female anglers. We could not be prouder of how she carries herself and represents us here at Fenwick and Abu Garcia.”
Capping off an incredible season in 2021, Fischer concluded with, “This event is like the Bassmaster Classic of kayak fishing. The culmination of a long season’s sacrifices and efforts, with the 50 best anglers in our sport. Qualifying for this event is a feat all in its own but to win is something I can’t quite put into words just yet. I’m just so incredibly thankful for what this sport has given me and for all the support and encouragement I have in the industry. I also qualified for Hobie Worlds again. I was the first female to ever qualify for this after my Kentucky lake win three years ago so I am excited to get back to that event. All my career, I have never wanted any additional accolades because I’m a female in a male dominated area. I have always preferred to leave that out of it, but so many people have reached out saying their young daughters watched the awards and were ecstatic to see a girl up there with the trophy. In addition, reading the posts of tons of women saying this inspired them moved me beyond measure and made me realize the magnitude of this accomplishment. I hope to continue to be a great ambassador for our sport and I can’t thank everyone enough for everything they’ve done for me over the years.”
Simms To Sponsor Bassmaster Elite Event On Lake Fork
November 16, 2021
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Montana-based Simms Fishing Products, a brand renowned for its waders, outerwear, footwear and technical apparel, has signed on as the title sponsor for one of the most anticipated events of the 2022 Bassmaster Elite Series season. The 2022 Simms Bassmaster Elite at Lake Fork will be held May 19-22 in Quitman, Texas.
“We are proud to partner with Simms on what is sure to be an exciting tournament on legendary big-bass fishery Lake Fork,” said Chase Anderson, B.A.S.S. chairman and CEO. “We all know spring weather can be unpredictable, so a great apparel brand made for any condition like Simms will be perfect for the enthusiastic fans and anglers joining us at the Simms Bassmaster Elite at Lake Fork."
Texas pro Lee Livesay won the Elite Series’ most recent trip to Fork in April 2021 with a whopping total of 112 pounds, 5 ounces that was capped by a final-day catch of five bass that weighed 42-3. A captivated audience watched more than 51.4 million minutes of live tournament coverage as the Elite at Lake Fork produced three lead changes and two anglers caught over 100 pounds.
As part of the on-site festivities at the Bassmaster Outdoors Expo, fans can enjoy kids’ activities, Elite angler clinics, opportunities to meet their favorite pros and more prior to weigh-in.
“Simms has historically been behind the scenes of professional bass fishing with a commitment to supporting our pro anglers across all levels of competition,” said Patterson Leeth, Director of Product Marketing and Community for Simms. “The time is right for our brand to make a larger commitment to the sport and support an ideal tournament structure that aligns with our core values.”
Lake Fork is perhaps known as the country’s largemouth mecca, with this giant-bass paradise claiming the No. 1 overall ranking for 2021 in Bassmaster Magazine’s list of 100 Best Bass Lakes.
Full coverage from all four days of the Simms Bassmaster Elite at Lake Fork will be available on Bassmaster.com and the FOX Sports digital platforms. FS1 will also broadcast live with the tournament leaders on Saturday and Sunday, May 21-22.
How whitetail hunting makes Swindle a better bass angler
Courtesy of Alan McGuckin - Dynamic Sponsorships
Inside Gerald Swindle’s museum-like man cave sit two Bassmaster Angler of the Year trophies below a wall full of whitetail deer mounts, and he’ll be quick to tell you there is tremendous connectivity between his profound success as a pro angler and the many days he’s spent sitting in a treestand.
“You look back through the history of pro fishing at the dudes I looked up to – guys like Denny Brauer, Larry Nixon, and Ken Cook – and they were naturals as archery hunters too. You can’t tell me there’s not a connection there,” Swindle emphasizes. “You see the same qualities these days in Greg Hackney and Jason Christie – two of the absolute best pros in the business who are equally as wicked in the whitetail woods,” he adds.
So, what exactly is the connection between consistently successful whitetail hunters who are also the world’s top bass anglers? Swindle says there are several reasons, and he graciously highlighted those at the top of his list.
Confidence Booster
It’s been said many times the most important tool in your tacklebox is confidence, and Swindle says the affirmation a successful deer hunt yields does wonders for his confidence as an angler.
“Picking the perfect tree to put a stand in and choosing the key spot to pitch a jig among 50 acres of flooded timber on Lake Fork, ain’t much different from one another,” he says. “You’re tasked with scouting and analyzing, and then scouting and analyzing some more. But when you finally kill a big buck under that one tree you chose to hang a stand in, your confidence in your ability to analyze the outdoor world around you skyrockets!”
Mental and Spiritual Wellness
Few professions involve more stress and emotional roller coaster rides than professional bass fishing. So, Swindle declares deer hunting in the ‘off season’ as the ultimate source of mental therapy and stress decompression amid his efforts to recharge for the season ahead.
“My wife “Lulu” asks me why I put my treestand so high in the tree, and I just smile and tell her it makes me feel a little closer to God,” he says.
Call it meditation, stress relief, religion, or mental therapy, Swindle says everybody needs a little time in their life to be alone and unwind – and nothing supplies that better for him than time in a tree.
Whitetail teach you how to lose, and persevere
Few sports deliver more defeat and disappointment relative to victories than tournament bass fishing, but whitetail deer hunting runs a close second.
“Winning a tournament rarely happens to even the worlds’ greatest, and deer hunting will dang sure break your heart more times than not too – so both teach you to lose a lot without giving up,” says Swindle. “Lulu told me missing two bucks in seven days this season about broke her. I told her she oughta try winning an AOY title only to turn around and zero in the Bassmaster Classic,” he says.
The good news is, much like her 2-time Bassmaster Angler of the Year of husband, “Lulu” proved herself to be a pro in perseverance a few days later when she arrowed a very impressive 10-pointer to taste victory in the shadows of her previous brokenness --- perfectly exemplifying the parallels between tournament bass fishing and chasing trophy whitetails.
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2022 TNPFL Schedule is Set!
THE SCHEDULE IS SET
• Six qualifying tournaments, two spring, two summer and two fall.
• Live Stream all three days, on the water. Live in-studio commentator and live weigh-ins
EVENT
2022 THE LEAGUE | STOP ONE – Lake Cumberland
Burnside, KY | Mar 6-12, 2022
2022 THE LEAGUE | STOP TWO – Lake Hartwell
Anderson, SC | May 1-7, 2022
2022 THE LEAGUE | STOP THREE – Saginaw Bay
Bay City, MI | June 19-25, 2022
2022 THE LEAGUE | STOP FOUR – Watts Barr
Spring City, TN | July 24-30, 2022
2022 THE LEAGUE | STOP FIVE – Sandusky Bay
Sandusky, OH | Aug 28-Sep 3, 2022
2022 THE LEAGUE | STOP SIX – Kissimmee Chain of Lakes
Kissimmee, FL | Oct 9-15, 2022
Justin Brouillard
With the 2021 NPFL season behind us and new things in the works, 2022 is on everyone’s mind. As the inaugural season closes, plans are being made and anglers are getting geared up for season two. Check out the 2022 Schedule below and see what some of the anglers have to say about each destination.
Stop 1: Lake Cumberland – March 6th – 12th Hosted by the City of Burnside, Kentucky
Season two kicks off early March on Burnside Kentucky’s Lake Cumberland. With anglers coming off a season that saw largemouth, spotted bass and smallmouth throughout the year, Cumberland offers anglers the chance to target all three.
Kentucky angler Corey Null has spent some time on Cumberland but most of the experience has been after the spring timeframe. Null wants to wait and see how the weather plays out before making any bold predictions but is hoping for some sort of cranking deal or dragging a jig.”
“Between the spots, largemouth and smallies, it will be some sort of combo deal that wins unless someone completely dials in one species big time. I am positive it will be a mix. There are good bags of smallmouth and largemouth out there at that time and the person who figures both of those species will win the tournament. Early guess without knowing the weather, I am going with 15-pounds plus per day to win.”
Stop 2: Lake Hartwell – May 1st – 7th Hosted by the City of Anderson, South Carolina
Stop two of the NPFL season brings the anglers to South Carolina’s famous Lake Hartwell at the end of April. A short while into spring, anglers can expect to find some quality fishing conditions with fish in several phases of the spawn. The kicker is the weather.
South Carolina angler Bryan Tyler has fished Hartwell a handful of times and expects anglers to be focusing their time on the shallows with all phases of the spawn playing at some level.
“There should be fished getting ready to spawn, on the spawning beds, and probably some fish finished. This all depends on the weather, if a big cold front comes through, and it happens in April on occasion, it could change some things.”
Tyler notes how unique Hartwell can be with spotted bass being caught deep while largemouth roam the shallows. In April, the dominant factor should be the shallow bite.
“I think it will be won on largemouth, and that’s not saying you can’t catch some spots, but they won’t be big enough to win. The spots will be more scattered while the shallow deal should be more stable, and guys will catch more fish up there.”
Stop 3: Saginaw Bay – June 19th – 25th Hosted by Bay City, Michigan
Bay City, Michigan will play host to stop number 3 of the NPFL season. In early June, anglers should be looking at a quality fishery at a good time. Veteran angler Gary Adkins has fished all over the country with success but enjoys catching Great Lake’s Smallmouth Bass. Adkins expects all phases of the spawn to be taking place in the super clear water of Saginaw Bay.
“The fish will probably be spawning, and all phases should be going on. Anglers will get to choose how they prefer to catch fish, but the sight fishing will be good. This place has giant caliber smallmouth but also a big population of largemouth too.”
Although the noted size difference may keep some anglers from targeting largemouth specifically, big winds may limit the angler’s ability to effectively fish for the spawning fish and may force some plan changes.
“There is a great population of largemouth bit there are a lot in the 3.5 to 4-pound range. On the other hand, the smallmouth are a little heavier in the 4 to 6-pound range. Anglers can target either species with success. If you’re a smallie guy, you will have no problem finding smallie beds.”
Stop 4: Watts Bar – July 24th – 30th Hosted by Spring City, Tennessee
The fourth stop of the NPFL season brings the anglers back to the state of Tennessee to Watts Bar Reservoir. Coming in at the end of July, the TVA reservoir is expected to be tougher on anglers than some other events but will offer a variety of ways to catch fish. Tennessee angler Taylor Watkins, winner of the 2021 season finale on Grand Lake knows the TVA chain well is expects a similar event to Pickwick from last season.
“It’s going to be party boat central,” laughed Watkins. “It gets pretty wild on the weekends, but the weekdays will be okay. In all seriousness, this will be a grinder of a tournament and the current will be a big deal. Guys will catch them shallow and deep, but it will require guys to put their heads down and grind through it.
Similar to Pickwick, aside from a few guys at the top, there will be leaderboard changes daily with guys having slower days than the day before and vice versa.
“Some guys will catch them really good and then have a hard time getting bites the next day. The other factor is the grass too, it depends on what kinds grow and how good. It should be fun regardless.”
Stop 5: Sandusky Bay – August 28th – September 3rd Hosted by the City of Sandusky, Ohio
The second to last stop of the 2022 season brings anglers back to the north to the Great Lakes and Lake Erie. At the end of August and beginning of September, anglers will be fishing during the fall transition with fish yet again on the move. Trophy sized smallmouth bass will be caught shallow and deep on a variety of different baits. Gary Adkins has more history on Erie than Huron and Saginaw Bay, but once again believes the lake will produce well for anglers.
“It’s the very start of the fall. There will be some fish deep and some shallow, and a very good reaction bite with crankbaits and swimbaits being factors. I still think with some fish moving shallow, this event will be won deep.”
The key to this event will be the availability of Canadian water to the NPFL field. Otherwise, anglers will still be able to catch both a quality and number of fish overall. Adkins notes another good population of largemouth, but the winner will have all brown fish.
“I am guessing about 22-pounds per day to win, and all smallmouth. Some guys will catch green ones, but they won’t win doing it. If the wind blows hard, we may not be able to leave the bay and it may play into the largemouth more, but you can leave and tuck behind the islands and still get them good. It all depends on the wind direction.”
Stop 6: Lake Toho – October 9th – 15th Hosted by the City of Kissimmee, Florida
The final stop of the season ends in the sunshine state on the famous Kissimmee Chain. Lake Toho plays host for the finale in early October and anglers again should hit it in time to catch some quality Florida bass. 2021 NPFL Angler of the Year Keith Carson knows the chain well and is looking forward to fish in his home state at a unique time of year.
“Regardless, I’ll be excited to fish in Florida,” laughed Carson. “It should be fun, and it could be really good.”
With the amount of spraying of vegetation taking place in Florida, Carson is hoping for good rains to keep the grass growing.
“Without the grass, it could be tough. If we can have some nice weather prior and get the vegetation growing, it could be very good. Hopefully they don’t spray the weeds. If they do, were looking at 17-pounds a day with potential for 25-pounds or so per day if there is good grass.”
With the 2021 season stop in Florida being dominated shallow, Carson thinks it could be setting up for some sort of offshore deal.
“If it sets up correct, and they water stays high, it will be good shallow fishing but if they kill it all and its dry, some sort of offshore bite will probably win.”
Huge Final Day Lifts Zaldain And Rickard To Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship Win
The all-star team of Chris Zaldain of Fort Worth, Texas, and Ryan Rickard of Brandon, Fla., have won the 2021 Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter with a three-day total of 43 pounds, 4 ounces.
Photo by James Overstreet/B.A.S.S.
November 14, 2021
PORT ARANSAS, Texas — Despite a Day 2 letdown, Bassmaster Elite Series pro Chris Zaldain of Fort Worth, Texas, and IFA Redfish Tour angler Ryan Rickard of Brandon, Fla., stuck with their area and put the finishing touches on a winning three-day total of 43 pounds, 4 ounces at the Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter.
After placing third on Day 1 with 14-10, Zaldain and Rickard held that spot on Day 2 but saw the effects of a minor front dwindle their productivity to 11-5. Championship Sunday served up nearly perfect conditions — light south wind, warm and calm — and the anglers put on a bona fide shallow-water redfish clinic that yielded their best bag of the event — 17-5.
Zaldain and Rickard’s final-round catch was the day’s second largest, behind the second-place team of Bassmaster Elite Derek Hudnall of Baton Rouge, La., and IFA Redfish Tour veteran Ron Hueston of Naples, Fla., who caught the event’s heaviest limit — 18-3. Edging Hudnall and Hueston by a margin of 2-12, Zaldain and Rickard won $50,000.
“We figured out a pattern really late on our last day of pre-fishing,” Rickard said. “We had to stick with it for three days. Yesterday it bit us a little bit, but it panned out today.”
A seven-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier, Zaldain won the 2015 Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year Championship tournament. Rickard, a seasoned redfish tournament pro, notched his first career victory.
“I’ve been bumped so many times,” said a visibly emotional Rickard. “I can’t even express the emotion that I feel — it doesn’t seem real. But today on the boat, Chris said ‘Whenever it happens, something special happens.
“Well, I’ll tell you, today was something special on the bite. I’ve never had a final day like today was.”
Recognizing that Day 2 saw the front’s strong north wind and high pressure suppress their area’s potential, the champions decided to go all in for the final round. This was a prudent decision, as Saturday’s quiet, lifeless complexion starkly contrasted Sunday’s immediate vibrancy.
“I think we caught like 40 fish today — unreal,” Zaldain said. “The signs weren’t right yesterday and we only caught two fish. Today, we go into our area and Ryan said ‘Dude, look at all the mullet (a known redfish indicator) on the horizon.’
“There were mullet jumping and baitfish everywhere. Things started happening and we went through one fish after another. I think we released like 10 7-pounders and four 8s.”
Zaldain and Rickard caught all of their fish on a shallow Laguna Madre flat on the east side of Padre Island, south of the Highway 358 Bridge. As Zaldain explained, they targeted three main areas with sand depressions dropping to about 2 1/2 feet.
“The redfish were feeding on the shallow flats and then they’d drop into these sandy holes,” Zaldain said. “We would drift up to each of these areas and make bomb casts until we hooked a fish, then we would Power-Pole down and fan cast the area.”
Of the six fish they weighed this week, Rickard and Zaldain each caught three. The anglers fished weedless gold spoons and 4-inch Strike First paddle tails on belly-weighted hooks.
“These baits imitated the mullet that these redfish were eating,” said Rickard, who doctored his baits with baitfish-scented Pro-Cure Super Gel.
The paddle tails produced both of their final-round fish, but Zaldain also dipped into his Elite Series repertoire and caught several big fish on a 6-inch Megabass Magdraft swimbait.
Zaldain, who distributed commemorative buttons with distinctive purple ribbons to event staff and fellow competitors, dedicated his win to former Bassmaster Elite Aaron Martens, who recently passed after battling cancer for 19 months.
“He loved saltwater fishing, too,” Zaldain said. “So, Aaron, this is for you!”
Hudnall and Hueston struggled on Day 1 and placed eighth with 8-6. Rebounding on Day 2, they added 13-15 and rose to sixth before racing into a second-place finish with a dominant final-round performance that tallied 40-8 and earned them a pair of 36-volt Lithium Pro Powerpack batteries valued at $4,200.
Fishing the Redfish Flats area close to the takeoff site at Fisherman’s Wharf, Hudnall and Hueston targeted grass flats with sandy potholes. They caught their fish on 1/2-ounce gold spoons and a 3/8-ounce white Z-Man ChatterBait JackHammer with a chartreuse/white Missile Baits Shockwave trailer.
“The key was that Missile Baits Shockwave; it was something I could make long casts with,” Hudnall said. “Those fish were feeding on little baitfish that were the same size as that ChatterBait with that Shockwave.”
Day 2 leaders Travis Land of Seguin, Texas, and Nicky Savoie of Cutoff, La., who represented the Elite Redfish Tour, placed third with 40-4. On Day 1, they placed fourth with 13-3, then added 14-8 to take over the top spot. In the final round, they caught a pair of reds that weighed 12-9.
Returning to the same marshy area of Mesquite Bay on the east side of Matagorda Island, Land and Savoie tried sight fishing the shallow flat that produced for them on Saturday. Land said the day’s lighter winds and lower water kept the fish from aggressively feeding in this area and they were unable to put together any substantial back-up plan.
Berkley Gulp! Shrimp and Berkley Ripple Shads on lead head jigs produced their fish.
“It’s a humbling sport; you work your tail off, fish hard, the fish are there one day, gone another,” Savoie said. “Their (Zaldain and Rickard) fish showed up today, ours left.
“We had 10 pounds all day and caught our last two fish in the last hour to upgrade.”
2021 Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter 11/12-11/14
Port Aransas, Port Aransas TX.
(BOATER) Standings Day 3
Angler Club/School Pts
1. Chris Zaldain - Ryan Rickard 0
Day 1: 2 14-10 Day 2: 2 11-05 Day 3: 2 17-05 Total: 6 43-04
2. Derek Hudnall - Ron Hueston 0
Day 1: 2 08-06 Day 2: 2 13-15 Day 3: 2 18-03 Total: 6 40-08
3. Travis Land - Nicky Savoie 0
Day 1: 2 13-03 Day 2: 2 14-08 Day 3: 2 12-09 Total: 6 40-04
4. Patrick Walters - Dwayne Eschete 0
Day 1: 2 11-00 Day 2: 2 15-06 Day 3: 2 12-06 Total: 6 38-12
5. Thomas Barlow - Glenn Vann 0
Day 1: 2 15-00 Day 2: 2 09-01 Day 3: 2 12-09 Total: 6 36-10
6. Jeremy Heimes - Micky Gibbs 0
Day 1: 2 07-11 Day 2: 2 13-12 Day 3: 2 11-01 Total: 6 32-08
7. Matt Herren - Chad Manning 0
Day 1: 2 10-13 Day 2: 2 09-00 Day 3: 2 12-04 Total: 6 32-01
8. Mark Menendez - Ricky Bort 0
Day 1: 2 15-01 Day 2: 2 10-02 Day 3: 1 03-03 Total: 5 28-06
9. Trait Zaldain - Matt McCabe 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 2 11-07 Day 3: 2 12-04 Total: 4 23-11
10. Chris Cenci - Chris Kennedy 0
Day 1: 2 08-11 Day 2: 2 09-04 Day 3: 1 05-03 Total: 5 23-02
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 9 18 104-07
2 0 20 117-12
3 0 18 116-15
----------------------------------
9 56 339-02
Adjustment Helps Land And Savoie To Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship Lead
Elite Redfish Tour anglers Travis Land of Seguin, Texas, and Nicky Savoie of Cutoff, La., are leading after Day 2 of the 2021 Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter with a two-day total of 27 pounds, 11 ounces.
Photo by James Overstreet/B.A.S.S.
November 13, 2021
PORT ARANSAS, Texas — Travis Land of Seguin, Texas, and Nicky Savoie of Cutoff, La., didn’t panic when their spot failed to produce. They simply adjusted their positioning, worked their plan and took over the Day 2 lead at the Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter with a two-day total of 27 pounds, 11 ounces.
The leaders, who are representing the Elite Redfish Tour, placed fourth on Day 1 with 13-3 and bolstered that with a Day 2 catch of 14-8 — the day’s second-heaviest bag, behind the 15-6 weighed by Bassmaster Elite Series pro Patrick Walters of Summerville, S.C., and Dwayne Eschete of Lake Jackson, Texas. Land and Savoie lead Walters and Eschete by a margin of 1-5.
After Friday’s moderate south wind, Day 2 brought 15 to 25 mph winds out of the north. Land and Savoie stuck to their main spot — Mesquite Bay on the east side of Matagorda Island — but relocated to a more strategic area.
“We made a move around the corner from where we fished yesterday because our fish have left,” Land said. “I think they’ve pushed back further into the marsh, so we picked up and moved to where we thought we would have a little cleaner water because the wind blew pretty hard this morning.
“Immediately after that move, we went 50 yards and caught a good fish. We just continued that pattern the rest of the day.”
Land described their relocation spot as a small flat with a shelf. The fish were feeding along the shallows and dropping off the edge. Land and Savoie were catching them when they rose onto the flat.
“All of these fish were moving in with the tide and we sight-fished all day,” Savoie said. “We found this place in practice because we knew we needed to find a place to fish in this weather. It was perfectly planned, perfectly executed and it just worked for us.”
With the flat rising to about 8 inches of water, Land and Savoie caught their fish on Berkley Ripple Shad and Berkley Gulp! Shrimp on jigheads. Short, accurate casts with Abu Garcia baitcasting gear were essential to maximizing their opportunities.
“These fish are spooked, that’s why we went to baits without vibration,” Land said. “We were throwing root beer and sugar and spice colors. They started to react to those better than something with (vivid tail colors).”
Savoie said he and his partner mixed up the bait presentations. He threw a 1/4-ounce jighead, while Land threw a 3/8-ounce. If they spotted a fish that refused one bait, they would immediately follow with a different look.
“We felt like those fish fed the best in the middle of the day, but we have yet to find our biggest school that we caught our biggest (practice) fish out of,” Land said. “We keep trying, we keep checking that spot and hoping they’ll come back. I believe some porpoises have moved into that area and spooked them out of there, but we’re going to keep checking it."
Savoie, a 6-foot-8 former NFL tight end, scored the save of the day after hooking a slot fish across a narrow bulkhead. He reeled the fish as close as possible, but Land was unable to reach far enough to net the red and tournament rules prohibit competitors from leaving their boat to land a fish.
“My partner was trying to net the fish and the net wouldn’t even touch the water,” Savoie chuckled. “He’s trying and trying and I’m looking at him thinking ‘Oh, this is hilarious.’
“I said, ‘Here, hold the pole.’ So, I gave him the pole and I took the net and said ‘Clockwork.’”
Looking ahead to Championship Sunday, Land said he’s optimistic about his team’s potential.
“I feel good about what we did today,” he said. “The fish we weighed are only 25 inches long; if we go catch the ones that are 28, they’ll weigh 8 to 8 1/2-pounds. We caught them during pre-fishing.
“We’re competing against a great group of anglers, so you can’t ever let off the gas. I didn’t really want to be in first place going into the last day because I always like to move up the leaderboard, but here we are.”
Walters and Eschete entered Day 2 genuinely happy about the stronger winds. They’ve been committed to drifting large flats in the upper end of Laguna Madre where they’re targeting a mix of grass and sand bottom with paddle tails and swimbaits on jigheads.
“The wind 100 percent helped us today,” Eschete said. “We made 20 drifts that were triple the distance of our drifts on Day 1. We were drifting at 2.5 mph. Yesterday were making drifts at .8 mph.
“That made the difference in everything because we were able to cover more water and locate our fish. Our fish had moved today, but we got them dialed in. Now, we just have to go out tomorrow and continue doing what we’re doing.”
Toward the end of their day, the anglers came close to surging into the lead when Walters hooked a big fish that crushed his bait and put up an extensive fight. In the net, the fish looked like it might fit the 20- to 28-inch slot limit, however, the 10-pounder went 28 1/4, so Walters had to release it.
“It was a big one, but the good thing is I feel good about the day,” Walters said. “We struggled for a while; I think it was 10 o’clock before we caught our first one. Then we slowly kept pecking away at it.
“After lunch, I think we dialed something in. We’re around 10-pound fish, they just need to be a quarter-inch shorter. I feel pretty good about tomorrow.”
Bassmaster Elite Chris Zaldain of Fort Worth, Texas, and Ryan Rickard of Brandon, Fla., remained in the third-place spot with a total weight of 25-15. They added 11-5 to the Day 1 weight of 14-10.
Describing a tougher second round, Zaldain said the day’s complexion nearly shut down their main area. Making a long run south of Port Aransas, they couldn’t afford to burn much time running around, so they did their best to work with the areas they had selected.
“I knew in the back of my mind: It’s a northeast kind of front, the air was kind of light and, down here on the Texas coast where that southern, heavy, low-pressure wind is predominant, things change (with these fronts),” Zaldain said. “It was pretty nasty in our areas. We noticed there were no mullet jumping, there were no pinfish (showing in the grass) and there were no pelicans (indicating baitfish).
“Those were the ingredients we needed and it wasn’t happening. We only had five bites and landed all of them.”
Noting that he and Zaldain threw weedless gold spoons and jigs with soft plastics, Rickard said that as the afternoon brought warming and slightly less wind, they saw their area start to pop. Baitfish started showing and redfish followed.
“This all happened in the last 45 minutes of the day,” Rickard said. “We just didn’t have enough time to take advantage of it. But those fish will still be there tomorrow.”
Competition hours Sunday will be 6:45 a.m.-2.45 p.m. CT, with weigh-ins set for 3 p.m. at Fisherman’s Wharf. Fans can catch Bassmaster Redfish LIVE coverage of the tournament as cameras capture all of the action. FS1 will broadcast live from 7-11 a.m. with continuing coverage available on Bassmaster.com.
2021 Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter 11/12-11/14
Port Aransas, Port Aransas TX.
(BOATER) Standings Day 2
Angler Club/School Pts
1. Travis Land - Nicky Savoie 0
Day 1: 2 13-03 Day 2: 2 14-08 Total: 4 27-11
2. Patrick Walters - Dwayne Eschete 0
Day 1: 2 11-00 Day 2: 2 15-06 Total: 4 26-06
3. Chris Zaldain - Ryan Rickard 0
Day 1: 2 14-10 Day 2: 2 11-05 Total: 4 25-15
4. Mark Menendez - Ricky Bort 0
Day 1: 2 15-01 Day 2: 2 10-02 Total: 4 25-03
5. Thomas Barlow - Glenn Vann 0
Day 1: 2 15-00 Day 2: 2 09-01 Total: 4 24-01
6. Derek Hudnall - Ron Hueston 0
Day 1: 2 08-06 Day 2: 2 13-15 Total: 4 22-05
7. Jeremy Heimes - Micky Gibbs 0
Day 1: 2 07-11 Day 2: 2 13-12 Total: 4 21-07
8. Matt Herren - Chad Manning 0
Day 1: 2 10-13 Day 2: 2 09-00 Total: 4 19-13
9. Chris Cenci - Chris Kennedy 0
Day 1: 2 08-11 Day 2: 2 09-04 Total: 4 17-15
10. Trait Zaldain - Matt McCabe 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 2 11-07 Total: 2 11-07
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Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 9 18 104-07
2 0 20 117-12
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9 38 222-03
Bass Tactics Put Bort And Menendez Atop Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship
Mark Menendez and Ricky Bort are leading after Day 1 of the 2021 Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter with 15 pounds, 1 ounce.
Photo by James Overstreet/B.A.S.S.
November 12, 2021
PORT ARANSAS, Texas — One partner chose the spot, one chose the bait and teamwork gave Bassmaster Elite Series champion Mark Menendez and veteran multispecies pro Ricky Bort a two-fish limit of 15 pounds, 1 ounce to lead Day 1 of the Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter.
Heading into Day 2, Menendez and Bort hold a 1-ounce lead over Elite Redfish Tour pros Glenn Vann and Thomas Barlow.
“Not bad for Team Geritol,” Menendez joked of he and Bort’s age (both late 50s). “We had a great day. Ricky and I met a long time ago; we actually fished a championship tournament in the late ’90s, so we’ve known each other through Skeeter Boats for a long time.”
Their familiarity bred a competitive camaraderie that translated into strategic efficiency. Leaning on Bort’s saltwater experience, the anglers started their day in what Bort termed a “culling area” about 8 miles north of the Fisherman’s Wharf takeoff site. After boating one keeper around 8:30 a.m., they ran 54 miles east and spent the rest of their day in a narrow, protected ditch.
“It’s a really unique little place,” Menendez said. “We’re just being really stealthy, trying not to stir things up and watching really good.
“Our timing was perfect today. After Ricky got a good fish in the boat, we picked up stakes, ran to our (main) spot and got lucky and got a couple of good bites.”
Both of those redfish ate a classic bass fishing rig that Menendez has successfully used in multiple Elite events. He pitched and cast a black neon Strike King Rage Craw Texas-rigged on a 5/0 Gamakatsu straight-shank hook with a 3/16-ounce Strike King Tour Grade Tungsten weight.
“I’ve caught them in Florida, Louisiana and other parts of Texas doing this,” Menendez said. “It’s just something I’m comfortable with; it’s something I love to do on tour, so it just made it easy to make the conversion over here.”
Bort’s keen ability to spot fish or their movement proved helpful in guiding Menendez’s casts. As Bort explained, watching for waking fish, pushes and shadows was the key.
“Ricky has really good eyes,” Menendez said. “He says, ‘Hey, hey, hey, look to your right.’ I’m getting the hang of it, but with his years of experience, I’m taking his lead on that.”
“It was a great day out there; we had a great week pre-fishing and did really well,” Bort said. “Mark brings a lot from the freshwater world that is new to the saltwater world and that seems to be shining right now. We’ll keep it up and see what we can do tomorrow.”
After an opening round of moderate south winds, the Day 2 forecast calls for 20 to 30 mph north winds. This will greatly hinder a lot of the open-water patterns, but Bort is confident he and Menendez can replicate their success.
“We’re going to go directly to our primary area, instead of starting out in that culling location first,” he said. “It’ll be rough getting there, but once we’re there we’re good.
“We were hoping to get two in the boat really quickly (on the first spot), but there was another boat in there so we had to shift gears a little bit. Once we made the decision to leave, we did well.”
Menendez added this: “Once we reach our area, we don’t have to move around much. We’re fishing the entire time.”
Barlow and Vann caught their fish in the Corpus Christi area. Targeting areas with oyster bars, they did more looking than casting; strategically waiting for one of the schools they’d found in practice to appear.
Needing to fish their baits over the hard shell bottom without snagging, Barlow and Vann hung 1/2-ounce Bill Lewis Saltwater Rat-L-Traps under popping corks. The anglers expanded their creativity by reversing their corks. Traditionally, the wider end faces upward for maximum chugging commotion, but they faced their narrow ends up for minimal disturbance.
“Most of the time a Rat-L-Trap (fished in a cast-and-wind presentation) is a reaction bait, but today, they didn’t want anything but this (cork rig),” Barlow said. “We cast plastics into five different schools and they didn’t eat it.”
With various species of small, shiny baitfish abounding in the marsh areas they fished, Vann surmised that their rigs kept a familiar profile visible in a unique manner.
“It was something totally and completely different; it’s not what they’re used to,” he said.
Seven-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier Chris Zaldain and veteran IFA Redfish Tour angler Ryan Rickard fished far south and placed third with 14-10. Capping their day with Zaldain’s 8-pounder, the anglers wrapped up around 1 p.m. and allowed themselves ample time for a long return ride.
“Typically, the water’s cleaner down south; the water’s clearer down there,” Zaldain said. “In practice, Ryan said, ‘It’s going to blow out of the north (during the tournament).’ We thought that would be today, but it will be tomorrow, so he put us in a protected area.”
Rickard said he considers his team’s choice of weedless gold spoon jigs with soft plastics the reliable redfish favorites. Despite getting only a few of the right-size fish today, he’s confident the area he and Zaldain are fishing holds winning potential.
“I went into today saying I would love to come out with 14-plus pounds, I don’t care if we were sixth place, 10th place, first place — it didn’t matter,” Rickard said. “With the fish we have to go back to, we definitely have a good opportunity to get this done.”
Saturday’s takeoff is scheduled for 6:45 a.m. CT from Fisherman’s Wharf. The weigh-in will be held back at the wharf at 3 p.m. FS1 will broadcast Bassmaster Redfish LIVE coverage Saturday from 7-10 a.m. with continuing coverage available on Bassmaster.com.
2021 Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter 11/12-11/14
Port Aransas, Port Aransas TX.
(BOATER) Standings Day 1
Angler Club/School Pts
1. Mark Menendez - Ricky Bort 0
Day 1: 2 15-01 Total: 2 15-01
2. Thomas Barlow - Glenn Vann 0
Day 1: 2 15-00 Total: 2 15-00
3. Chris Zaldain - Ryan Rickard 0
Day 1: 2 14-10 Total: 2 14-10
4. Travis Land - Nicky Savoie 0
Day 1: 2 13-03 Total: 2 13-03
5. Patrick Walters - Dwayne Eschete 0
Day 1: 2 11-00 Total: 2 11-00
6. Matt Herren - Chad Manning 0
Day 1: 2 10-13 Total: 2 10-13
7. Chris Cenci - Chris Kennedy 0
Day 1: 2 08-11 Total: 2 08-11
8. Derek Hudnall - Ron Hueston 0
Day 1: 2 08-06 Total: 2 08-06
9. Jeremy Heimes - Micky Gibbs 0
Day 1: 2 07-11 Total: 2 07-11
10. Trait Zaldain - Matt McCabe 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Total: 0 00-00
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 9 18 104-07
----------------------------------
9 18 104-07
Colorado Angler Tops Field At Big Bass Zone Junior Championship World Finals
Evan Cox, a senior at Windsor High School in Loveland, Colo., topped a talented field of 54 anglers from across the country to win the world finals of the 2021 BassCat Boats Big Bass Zone Junior Championship presented by B.A.S.S. on Missouri's Lake Taneycomo.
Photo by Kyle Jessie/B.A.S.S.
November 11, 2021
BRANSON, Mo. — Evan Cox, a senior at Windsor High School in Loveland, Colo., topped a talented field of 54 anglers from across the country at the BBZ Junior Championship World Finals on Lake Taneycomo to claim a fully loaded 2021 BassCat Margay powered by a Mercury Pro XS outboard as well as a scholarship to fishing powerhouse Bethel University.
The BBZ Junior Championship World Finals is a big fish tournament. Anglers were tasked with a simple challenge: catch the biggest fish they could find in an eight-hour day and hope it was bigger than every other fish that hit the scales. Cox’s 5-pound largemouth edged out second-place finisher Trey McKinney (4.89) from Illinois and third-place Jason Gibson (4.48) of North Carolina.
“This event showed me that anyone can win and anything can happen during a tournament,” said Cox. “Winning it also gives me more determination and keeps fueling my love for the sport.”
Cox used a Yum Yumbrella rig with three hooks to catch his winning fish. “I like using them in that lake because it imitates a big ball of bait and entices the bigger fish to bite. I was throwing on an 80-pound braid, PowerPro Maxcuatro, with a 30-pound leader on a Dobyns Rods Fury Series casting rod, which works great for umbrella rigs and big swimbaits.”
The anglers qualified for the World Finals event via the online BassCat Boats Big Bass Zone Junior Championship presented by B.A.S.S, which allowed young competitors to fish from anywhere and on their own schedule. Anglers submitted their fish catches to a virtual leaderboard for each state through the Fishing Chaos app. The angler with the heaviest five-bass limit from that state moved on to the 2021 BBZ Junior Championship World Finals.
Among the impressive field of finalists are some of the country’s best high school anglers, including Cox and 10 other students who competed in July’s Mossy Oak Fishing Bassmaster High School National Championship presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors and seven anglers who were named to the 2021 Bassmaster High School All-State Fishing Team presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors.
Rounding out the Top 10 were Texas’ Triston Richardson (3.56); Florida’s Carson Kamien (3.17); South Carolina’s Chase Black (2.94); Pennsylvania’s Carson Forrester (2.90), member of the Bassmaster High School All-State Fishing Team; Louisiana’s Wade Roberts (2.88), a National Championship qualifier; Alabama’s Micaiah Lindquist (2.78) and Indiana’s Dylan May (2.53), a National Championship qualifier and member of the Bassmaster High School All-State Fishing Team.
In addition to the boat and motor package, Cox's BassCat is outfitted by Power-Pole, MotorGuide and Lowrance. Other prizes up for grabs in the tournament included four trips to Lake El Salto, Mexico, provided by Anglers Inn International; electronics and trolling motors from Humminbird, Minn Kota and other supporting manufacturers; scholarships from Bethel University; gear from AFTCO; rod and reel combos from Lew’s; batteries from Lithium Pros and a host of prizes from other event sponsors.
Berkley Fishing and Santa Want YOU to Decide Where Santa Should Fish After Christmas and He’s Bringing Up to $25k to the Winning Town
Submit your town for a chance to win a visit from Santa, gifts for the children and up to $25K from Berkley Fishing toward conservation efforts this holiday season!
COLUMBIA, S.C. (Nov. 11, 2021) — Everyone wants to know what Santa does after he’s done delivering toys to all the good boys and girls after Christmas. Well, we know the answer! Santa goes fishing! And this year, Santa needs your help to decide where he should fish next and what makes it a not-to-be-missed fishing destination!
Fishing tackle brand Berkley and Santa Claus are teaming up to look for fishy cities, towns, and communities who want Santa to visit, fish and donate to a good fishy cause on December 27th. Entering your community in the mix is easy: Answer the questions on the submission form and tell us why Santa should come to your area. You can fill out the submission form here!
The winning town must have a great fishing spot and clearly identify a conservation need or special fishing access project that Santa and Berkley can support. Submissions are open to everyone, but will only be accepted from November 11 through December 5, 2021, so submit your town today!
Remember, even after Christmas Santa loves to give presents! The winning town will receive gifts for the children of the community and a generous donation for their conservation/special project from Berkley Fishing.
The top five towns will be announced on December 6, 2021, and the winning town will be chosen by a public vote that will run from December 7 through December 12.
To submit your town, go to: SantaFishes.com.
To learn more about Berkley, visit: Berkley-Fishing.com
"Why Knot!?!"
Courtesy of Vance McCullough
My ability to break things is remarkable. More than a talent, I’d call it a superpower. At the very least it’s on the ‘professional’ level. Seriously, even at age 13 while working a summer construction job with my dad and uncle I got paid to tear out an entire bathroom with a sledgehammer and a crowbar. Shut the door and got flat after it. Thought I’d died and gone to Heaven. Until they checked on me to find that I’d smashed a couple of fixtures that weren’t supposed to be demolished. Seeing that I was eminently overqualified, they moved me right up the ladder. And into the attic. The dark, cramped, oven-hot attic where I installed itchy insulation and danced around - and sometimes with – live electrical wires, their insulation having been chewed away by rats.
While others have typically been less amused by my feats of destruction, the talent does serve a purpose. Namely, if you want to check the durability of, say, a bowling ball, let me have at that sucker.
It’s no different with trucks, boats, or fishing gear. Also, I set the hook like a gorilla, especially when flipping.
So, I have not found a line-to-line connection for splicing braid to fluoro that I trust. I will spool up with straight 30-lb fluorocarbon to avoid having to trust a splice. But then, I’ve busted straight line as well. It’s enough to make me just stick with braid for all heavy cover applications, period.
There are some strong connections that can be made between braid and fluoro, but the best ones are difficult, if not impractical to tie under cold or wet weather conditions and time-consuming when fishing against the tournament clock. If only there was a way to simplify the process . . .
My research has led me to a couple of candidates. Elites Series pros have recommended the Uni-to-Uni connection for years. It is strong and fairly easy to tie. A good all-around choice. However, for pure brute strength, the IGFA did some extensive testing in 2018 and concluded that the GT Knot is the strongest braid-to-leader connection for use with fluoro or monofilament. The strongest. Not the smoothest, not necessarily suited for use with micro guides commonly found on modern rods, maybe not the smoothest for getting in and out of matted grass, etc., but it is also among the simplest to tie while on the water under real world conditions, making it a knot you need to know.
Many anglers opt for the FG Knot because they feel it is strong enough for most applications and it is certainly the smallest, smoothest splice you can make. I’d love to break a few FG’s and remind myself why I am a straight braid or straight fluoro guy for life, but the FG is time consuming to tie.
Well, a friend of mine - Daniel Winkles - who battles big saltwater fish, turned me on to a video tutorial that details a much easier way to tie the FG Knot which, if I can perfect, might be a difference-maker in my fishing exploits - and my fishing line budget if it keeps me from spooling up with straight fluoro, because I don’t use the cheap stuff.
Note: The chap in this video also uses a Rizzuto finish instead of the standard finish, which should make this connection that much stronger than a standard FG (I know, I really go down the rabbit hole for a guy who just uses straight braid anyway). You’ll want to use more wraps in than he does with lighter lines and you may want to skip the pyrotechnics, unless you like playing with lighters, but this video may help you refine your FG techniques and give you the confidence to try this popular connection.
I am a work in progress, and this is a slowly developing story. My views will change over time, as I hope, will yours. Chime in on our social channels and let us know which knots are working for you. I’m always open to suggestions. You can find me on my personal account @VanceMcculloughOutdoors on Instagram as well as @AnglersChannel on Instagram and the AnglersChannel.com Facebook page. You can also chime in on our Podcast Hotline with a text at 256-535-3217
American Bass Anglers 2022 Open Series Registration Now Open
| Registration is now open for the 2022 Open Series. The 2022 season offers 16 divisions, Alabama North, Alabama South, Florida Central, Florida South, Georgia, Maryland, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee Central, Tennessee East, Texas East, and Texas Southeast, and Virginia.
Each division offers four one-day qualifying events offering a boater/co-angler format, with boaters paying a $210 entry fee and co-anglers paying $105. The Series offers a guaranteed payout of $5000 to the winning boater for one-day events with a field of 60 boats or more, Anglers are then invited to compete in an area championship with a guaranteed $6,000 to the winning boater for a field of 60 boats and $10,000 or more and to the winner of each area championship with a field of 100 boats. The top anglers from each division and those qualifying from the Area Championship are then invited to compete in the Ray Scott Champions, which will be held in the spring of 2023. The first events of the 2022 season start January in Florida and quickly move north as the weather warms. Anglers can register online as a package that registers them for all five (5) events. Which is made up of four divisional events and the two-day area championship. Entries in the events will be by date/time of entry. To learn more about the Series, rules, and schedules, visit americanbassanglers.com Link to Search for your Division's Schedule For more information on these tournaments and how to qualify for the next one, call ABA at 256-232-0406. Online, see www.americanbassanglers.com About the American Bass Anglers - American Bass Anglers is committed to providing low-cost, close-to-home tournaments for the weekend angler while offering an upward path for individual angler progression. For more information about American Bass Anglers and all their bass tournament trails visit www.americanbassanglers.com. American Bass Anglers is sponsored by: Triton Boats, Mercury Marine, Nitro Boats, Tracker Boats, MotorGuide, Garmin, T-H Marine, Abu Garcia, Berkley, Engel Coolers, REKS Sunglasses, Lucas Oil, Optima Batteries, and Power-Pole. Mailing address: American Bass Anglers, Inc, PO Box 475, Athens, AL 35612 PH (256) 232-0406.
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Upcoming 2022 Season Events - November |
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AC Insider Podcast - Randy Howell's Hope Fest
This week Chris and the boys welcome in MLF BPT Angler Randy Howell to talk about his Kings Home Boat Giveaway coming up Saturday Nov. 13th. Randy & Robin have raised over 1.8 million for Kings Home in 10 years and they look for this year to be stellar! KG is back from Lake Martin, DX wins the U-Pick-em and Chris gets uptight about ice. All this and more, just hit play!
Multiple Factors Merit Consideration For Redfish Cup Championship Field
Ten teams — including six all-star teams featuring a B.A.S.S. pro and redfish pro — will be competing for a grand prize of $50,000 during the Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter in Port Aransas, Texas, Nov. 12-14, 2021.
November 10, 2021
PORT ARANSAS, Texas — For Bassmaster fans familiar with freshwater fishing, the Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter Nov. 12-14 will shine the spotlight on new targets and tactics. This event promises a fascinating look at the inshore tournament world for the six competing bass pros, along with everyone watching daily Bassmaster Redfish LIVE coverage on Bassmaster.com and FS1.
Many of the event’s B.A.S.S. pros are fairly new to the inshore scene, but their redfish pro partners are well-versed at pursuing these copper-scaled brutes. While fall typically is considered a favorable season for redfish action, those who’ve walked this path recognize several variables demanding attention.
WEATHER WISDOM
Teaming with Bassmaster Elite veteran Matt Herren, Elite Pro Redfish Tour Championship qualifier Chad Manning of Apollo Beach, Fla., makes his first visit to Port Aransas. Expecting windy conditions, Manning spent Sunday studying local charts to identify protected areas with fish-friendly features.
“I’m going to find leeward areas, pre-fish them heavily and hope I can find and pattern some fish,” he said. “I don’t know much about the area, but from the maps I’ve looked at, it seems very similar to (my home waters of) Tampa Bay. There’s a lot of open water and grass flats, so you’re going to have to get out of the wind.
“A little wind isn’t bad; I prefer a little ripple on the surface, but too much wind stirs up the water and makes it difficult for the fish to see. When that happens, they’re going to move to cleaner or deeper water.”
Ryan Rickard of Brandon, Fla., who pairs with seven-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier Chris Zaldain, has previously fished Port Aransas, so he’s comfortable with the week’s windy forecast.
“I think being patient with the weather and not stressing out over the conditions will be important,” the veteran IFA Redfish Tour pro said. “I’ll be trying to find lee side pockets with cleaner water where the bait is stacking up because that’s where the redfish are going to travel in with (the bait).
“It’s going to depend on which way the wind blows, whether the water’s going to stack there or whether it’s going to blow out. That’s going to be a huge factor. If you pattern fish pre-fishing and they’re in a specific zone, but the wind switches and blows the water out, or it’s opposite of where you pre-fished, you have to know where the fish are going to transition to.”
TIDE CHARTS
Hailing from Sargent, Texas, multispecies tournament pro Ricky Bort will compete alongside Elite angler Mark Menendez, who has notched three Bassmaster victories. With a formidable blend of bass, speckled trout and redfish experience, Bort knows that lunar cycles bear critical impact.
As Bort explained, tidal flow (controlled by the moon) moves baitfish around and stimulates redfish feeding. Full and new moons exert the strongest tidal influence, but with a first quarter phase on Nov. 11, tournament days will see increasingly weak water movement, which he says will require anglers to stay mobile and find feeding fish.
“We’re on an (unfavorable) moon cycle; a quarter-moon phase that can delay our bite,” Bort said. “Barring a tremendous cold front, the fish are going to feed; it’s just a matter of what time of day is going to be the prime feed and if you can make some bite during the time that they are not in that prime feed time.”
A CHANGE OF PACE
Former FLW Redfish Championship winner Dwayne Eschete of Lake Jackson, Texas, will partner with Patrick Walters, who holds the all-time Bassmaster Elite record for a winning margin of 29 pounds, 10 ounces (Lake Fork, 2020). With a solid understanding of tournament waters, Eschete said that tournament rules prohibiting the sight fishing towers/platforms common to redfish pursuits will require him to replace the largely visual strategy he typically follows.
“It’s going to be a grind, simply because all these redfishermen are used to sight fishing and this is going to be a (mostly) blind casting tournament; you’re going to be doing a lot of casting and not really seeing many fish,” Eschete said. “I really think that coming up with a plan and sticking with it will be the key.
“It’s going to be important to be in the right place at the right time, so we’re going to be using our pre-fishing days to cover a lot of area to eliminate a lot of dead water.”
Eschete’s top criteria will be clear water and bait concentrations. Pogies (Gulf menhaden) and mullet are the leading finfish forage, while shrimp and crabs also factor into the red’s diet.
Notably, mullet are vegetarians and, while redfish prey on juvenile “finger mullet,” schools of adults often displace finfish and crustaceans as they rumble across shallow flats. As Eschete points out, finding mullet schools often leads anglers to redfish.
LESS CROWDED WATERS
Considering Port Aransas’ reputation as the “Fishing Capital of Texas,” tournament teams might assume they’ll have to contend with excessive local traffic. Some level of recreational activity is always assumed, but Elite Redfish Trail pro Travis Land makes a timely observation.
“One of the seasonal advantages we’re going to have is the tournament overlaps the opening weekend of deer season in South Texas,” said Land, who partners with former NFL tight end Nicky Savoie. “Hunters are fishermen and fishermen are hunters, so I think we’ll have a lot less pressure on our fishery due to the fact that a lot of folks will be hunting.
“With less fishing pressure, the fish become less spooky of a trolling motor or a boat floating near them. Even without towers, some level of sight fishing could still come into play, because the fish shouldn’t be as pressured.”
Nevertheless, Matt McCabe of Slidell, La., knows that the less he sees of his competitors, the better. Paired with Bassmaster Opens pro Trait Zaldain, the 30-year veteran pro is hoping that solitude will be their ally.
“I think the key will be finding some fish away from the (rest of the tournament field),” McCabe said. “I’ve never fished Port Aransas before this week but all the research I’ve done indicates that a lot of people do the same thing — they’re running these big schools.
“I think the key will be to find some unpressured fish off the beaten path where you can have them to yourself.”
Drawing on his Bayou State experience, McCabe said he knows that redfish living in grass tend to be bigger than those roaming sand flats, as the vegetation tends to hold more food. He plans on sticking to what he knows and targeting those darker colored grass fish.
BAIT SELECTION
Using topwater walkers as search baits is redfish 101, but with subterminal mouths, the fish often miss the bite. Weedless spoons (gold, copper, chartreuse) also allow anglers to cover lots of water to locate fish, and their 4-wheel drive versatility means anglers can throw spoons into places an open-hook bait would likely snag.
Rickard plans on throwing a 1/4-ounce spoon along with soft-plastic paddle tails. Rigging his plastics on a 5/0 3/16-ounce wide gap hook, he opts for an ample profile.
“I’m not a small paddle tail guy, but I’m not a huge paddle tail guy — I’ll throw a 4-inch bait,” Rickard said. “I feel like those bigger, heavier fish we’re concentrating on like to eat something bigger.
“Now, depending on what we have in barometric pressure, if we have a supercold front and we get lots of high pressure and bluebird skies, you may have to downsize the bait a little bit and slow your presentation, because they might get a little finicky. But, over the years, I have found that bigger profile bait catches your heavier fish.”
For McCabe, bait selection will come down to identifying fish disposition: “What I’m going to have to figure out is whether these fish are chasing stuff that moves fast or slow.
“I think it will be a matter of finding some fish that will eat. The key thing will be determining whether they’re chasing so we can throw ChatterBaits, spinnerbaits and spoons at them; or are we going to have to go along and see them and flip to them or make long casts with popping cork rigs.”
While he’s never fished the Texas coast, Mickey Gibbs of Dade City, Fla., said he believes his experience on Florida’s Gulf Coast flats will serve him and partner Jeremy Heimes well. With three Team of the Year titles and a 2019 Championship win in the Power-Pole Pro Redfish Series (Florida Division), these anglers will rely heavily on jigs with Strike First or Slayer Inc. paddle tails — the latter made by fellow competitor Chris Cenci.
“I rig these baits on a weighted wide gap bass hook, but I do mine a little differently than most people,” Gibbs said. “I buy one size weighted hook and then I use (various sizes of) a tungsten worm weight and a bobber stop to make the bait whatever weight I want.”
Eschete likes Berkley PowerBait Ripple Shad and Ripple Mullet on jigheads, but he’ll also keep jigs with 4-inch Berkley Gulp! Shrimp handy. The latter’s potent scent formula helps redfish locate the bait, while the dense, streamlined form facilitates the long casts needed for reaching spooky fish.
“When we’re drift fishing (shallow flats), the longer the cast the better opportunity you’re going to have because the fish know you’re there; they feel the boat pressure,” Eschete said. “The longer your cast, the better your chance of getting a reaction strike. When we’re blind casting, most of our strikes come within the first two cranks or on the drop.”
Competition hours are 6:45 a.m.-2.45 p.m. CT, with daily weigh-ins set for 3 p.m. at Fisherman’s Wharf. Fans can catch Bassmaster Redfish LIVE coverage all three days of the tournament as cameras capture all of the action. Bassmaster.com will stream live beginning at 7 a.m. CT on Nov. 12. FS1 will broadcast live Nov. 13 from 7-10 a.m. and Nov. 14 from 7-11 a.m. with continuing coverage available on Bassmaster.com.
MLF Angler Association Partners with MLB players to ‘Cast 4 Kids’ at Alabama’s Lake Guntersville
GUNTERSVILLE, Ala. (Nov. 10, 2021) – Professionals from two of America’s most popular sports are getting together in Guntersville to do a little fishing, and more importantly, raise money to benefit youth.
Pro anglers with Major League Fishing along with pros from Major League Baseball will test their skills on one of the top bass fishing lakes in the country on Sunday, Nov. 21.
Headed up by the Major League Fishing Foundation and the Major League Fishing Angler Association, “Cast 4 Kids” was conceived out of an idea within the MLF Foundation.
“Our goal at the MLFAA and MLF Foundation is to elevate the sport of fishing and there’s no better way to do that than to get our anglers exposure with other pros from other sports,” Executive Director of the MLF Foundation Wes Long said. “In addition, our goal at the MLF Foundation is to extend the life of the sport by taking care of our fisheries and making sure kids are exposed to fishing at an early age. We’re looking forward to raising money and putting on an event that kids and parents will enjoy.”
Each professional angler will be paired with a professional baseball player to make up teams for the tournament. The tournament launch will take place at Civitan Park in Guntersville.
The public will be invited to attend the tournament for free and meet their favorite pro anglers and baseball players. The teams are set to get off the water at approximately 1 p.m. A weigh-in will be held and the winners will be announced in front of the crowd. A fan fare will also be held at Civitan Park beginning at 12 p.m. Food and retail vendors will be on hand as well.
The list of former and current MLB players who have committed to participating in the event is sure to create excitement among baseball fans throughout Alabama and beyond.
The MLB will be represented by Jake Peavy, Ned Yost, Corbin Burnes, Josh Hader, Chaz Roe, Dan Jennings, Jake Marisnick, Jace Peterson, Wade Miley, LaTroy Hawkins and Lane Thomas.
MLF anglers joining the MLB players are Chris Lane, Jared Lintner, Brandon Coulter, Kelly Jordan, Paul Elias, Fred Roumbanis, Russ Lane, Casey Ashley, Mark Rose, Boyd Duckett, Gary Klein, Bobby Lane, Greg Vinson and Fletcher Shyrock.
Each team will leave out early Sunday, November 21 from Civitan Park with the goal of winning the tournament and securing bragging rights for an entire year.
For more information about the MLFAA and MLF Foundation, visit www.mlfaa.org. To become a vendor at the event or for more information, contact Joe Cagle at joecagle@mlfaa.org.
For complete details and updated information visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF’s social media outlets at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
South Carolina Native Wins Go Out{side} Giveaway
November 9, 2021
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Go Out{side} by Bassmaster was created to inspire and educate families as they begin exploring nature. Few things will motivate outdoor enthusiasts more than the incredible prizes in the Go Out{side} Giveaway, which included prizes from Big Green Egg, Eukanuba, Grizzly Coolers, AFTCO and a 2021 Toyota 4Runner Off Road Premium.
For giveaway winner Jeff Haire of Rock Hill, S.C., this prize came at the perfect time.
“The Toyota 4Runner TRD Off Road is the ideal prize at the ideal time,” explained Haire. “My wife’s SUV is more than 14 years old and ready to be replaced. We do frequently go off road, and the Toyota 4Runner has outstanding off-road capability, fantastic safety features and an amazing array of comfort and high-tech features.”
In addition to the new Toyota 4Runner, the Haire family will be outfitted with everything they need to continue their adventures, including a large Big Green Egg integrated Nest+Handler package, a Eukanuba prize pack including one year of dog food, a Grizzly G60 cooler and a $500 AFTCO gift card. The full value of the Go Out{side} Giveaway package is more than $46,000.
Haire already has plans to put these prizes to good use while exploring the outdoors.
“I am really looking forward to cooking with the Big Green Egg,” Haire said. “I’ve never had one, but everybody says they are the best! The Grizzly cooler will be used often for tailgates, trips to the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains and to the beaches of the Carolinas.
“We’re already planning a trip to Ocracoke Island (part of North Carolina's Outer Banks). We’ve taken many trips there over the last few decades, and a competent 4WD vehicle is required to access the best fishing spots. The 4Runner accomplishes that in comfort with room for three grandchildren and all our gear.”
Go Out{side} offers guidance on a variety of outdoor topics, including fishing, camping, hiking, cooking, travel, gear and conservation, from the knowledgeable writers and staff from B.A.S.S. along with Go Out{side} Ambassadors like Chef Jimmy Kennedy, outdoor bloggers and photographers Philip and Corey Hunt from Two Dog Outdoors, tournament angler Kristine Fischer and multispecies kayak angler John Deshauteurs.
Brandon Lester’s special boat dock
Courtesy of Alan McGuckin - Dynamic Sponsorships
Team Toyota’s Brandon Lester has won a million bucks thus far in his short career. And as national touring pro, he’s seen as many boat docks as what his Tundra’s seen interstate exit signs.
But there’s one particular boat dock within sight of iconic Waterfront Grocery boat ramp on Lake Guntersville that means more to the easy-going Tennessee pro than any other.
No, it’s not because he once caught a herd of 4-pounders off that dock and won a tournament. Instead, the special dock produced a few crappies with his grandpa on what would be their last treasured fishing trip together.
“I called him Papa. He was born in 1928, and he was of that old school mindset that fishing was a means to putting food on the table,” grins Lester.
But Hubert Smith was more than just a meat hunter seeking fresh fillets. He served America in the National Guard, was a preacher for 40 years in Fayetteville, Tennessee, and very much the foundation of his grandson Brandon’s future life as a top professional bass angler and all-around good man.
“I spent a ton of time with he and Nana during my summers as a kid. And of course, we went fishing as much as we could in his 16-foot Bumble Bee boat with a 40-horse engine on it. That was the first bass boat I ever rode in, and I thought it was the greatest thing ever,” remembers Lester.
It didn’t take long for the young Lester to move from Papa’s ride-along fishing buddy to being Captain of the small vessel, and that included learning to run the trolling motor.
“He’d always tell me, “One of these days you’re gonna be carrying me fishing,” -- and sure enough I did,” says Lester.
“I knew that particular trip here to Guntersville in 2018 was nearing the end. It was about 5-months before he passed away, and that dock behind me produced enough crappie for me to clean and share for dinner with him that evening. He loved that,” he reflects with emotion while holding up a photo of Papa on his cell phone.
So, while Lester will encounter thousands more boat docks in his still young career, only one will hold a place in his heart for Papa. It’s a big old dock, on the tip of Pine Island Point, blueish grey in color, across from a ramp he frequents often.
“Every time I launch at Waterfront, I think of Papa,” trails Lester’s voice with treasured memories.
Major League Fishing Announces Entry Dates for 2022 Toyota Series, Abu Garcia College Fishing and U.S. Army High School Fishing
The 2022 Toyota Series Presented by A.R.E. offers the biggest payouts for the lowest entry fees of any national tournament trail and is the pathway to the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit and ultimately the Bass Pro Tour. The Toyota Series provides an opportunity for anglers to fish close to home for incredible awards and advancement to the nationally televised Toyota Series Championship on Lake Guntersville, where pros will fish for a top prize of up to $235,000 and Strike King co-anglers compete for a $33,500 Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat powered by a 115-horsepower Mercury outboard. The highest-finishing pro from each division at the Toyota Series Championship also receives a $10,000 bonus.
- Registration for the 2022 Toyota Series season opens at 8 a.m. CT on Nov. 8, 2021, for the top 40 pros and Strike King co-anglers from each division of the 2021 Toyota Series, the top 45 pros and co-anglers from each division of the 2021 Phoenix Bass Fishing League, the winner of each 2021 Bass Fishing League tournament who paid an entry fee for all five tournaments in a division and fished at least two tournaments in the same division, and each College Fishing angler finishing in the top 10 at the 2021 National Championship . These anglers have until Nov. 29, 2021, to secure their priority entry.
- Phoenix boat owners may register beginning at 8 a.m. CT on November 30, 2021.
- Anglers who fished a full division of the 2021 Toyota Series or 2021 Bass Fishing League can register beginning at 8 a.m. CT on Dec. 1, 2021, followed by TBF members at 8 a.m. CT on Dec. 2, 2021.
- All other entries will be accepted beginning at 8 a.m. CT on Dec. 3, 2021.
- Anglers can register for the Toyota Series online at MajorLeagueFishing.com or call 270.252.1000. Priority entries will be taken by phone only. Online entries will open at 8 a.m. CT on Dec. 3, 2021.
- Registration for teams competing in 2022 Abu Garcia College Fishing tournaments opens at 8 a.m. CT on Dec. 13, 2021, for teams from school clubs represented in the 2021 College Fishing National Championship.
- All other teams may register beginning Dec. 14, 2021.
- Teams can register for the Abu Garcia College Fishing online at MajorLeagueFishing.com or call 270.252.1000. Priority entries will be taken by phone only. Online entries will open at 8 a.m. CT on Dec.14, 2021.
- Registration for the 2022 season of U.S. Army High School Fishing Presented by Favorite Fishing is now open.
- Teams can register at MajorLeagueFishing.com or call 270.252.1000.
- Registrations for the 2022 Wiley X High School Fishing Camp Presented by Tackle Warehouse is now open.
- Teams can register at MajorLeagueFishing.com or call 270.252.1000.
Catch Redfish Cup Championship Coverage Live On FOX Sports And Bassmaster.com
Fans will enjoy live coverage all three days as 10 teams compete for a grand prize of $50,000 during the Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter in Port Aransas, Texas, Nov. 12-14, 2021.
Photo courtesy of Skeeter
November 8, 2021
all-redfishCupChampionshipFINAL_all-redLogo.pngCatch Redfish Cup Championship Coverage Live On FOX Sports And Bassmaster.com
PORT ARANSAS, Texas — Eager sportfishing fans will have three days to catch live coverage of the Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter, which runs Nov. 12-14 out of Port Aransas, Texas. Competition hours are 6:45 a.m.-2.45 p.m. CT, with daily weigh-ins set for 3 p.m. at Fisherman’s Wharf.
The 10 teams competing will only be allowed to weigh two fish in the 20- to 28-inch slot per day rather than the standard five-fish limit for B.A.S.S. events, which will make finding the right bites critical for claiming the $50,000 first prize.
Bassmaster Redfish LIVE kicks off Day 1 with real-time coverage from each of the 10 boats beginning at 7 a.m. on Bassmaster.com. FS1 will broadcast live the mornings of Days 2 and 3 with continuing coverage available on Bassmaster.com.
Date Time (All times Central) Network
Friday, November 12 7 a.m. – 10 a.m. Bassmaster.com
11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Bassmaster.com
Saturday, November 13 7 a.m. – 10 a.m. FS1; FOX Sports Digital
11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Bassmaster.com
Sunday, November 14 7 a.m. – 11 a.m. FS1; FOX Sports Digital
12 p.m. – 2 p.m. Bassmaster.com
Ten teams will compete in this year’s Redfish Cup Championship, including the teams of Travis Land and Nicky Savoie and Glenn Vann and Thomas Barlow from the Elite Redfish Tournament Trail as well as Jeremy Heimes and Mickey Gibbs and Chris Cenci and Chris Kennedy from the Power-Pole Pro Redfish Tour. Joining these talented teams are six additional all-star teams featuring Bassmaster pro anglers paired with redfish pros: Matt Herren and Chad Manning; Derek Hudnall and Ron Hueston; Mark Menendez and Ricky Bort; Patrick Walters and Dwayne Eschete; Chris Zaldain and Ryan Rickard; and Trait Zaldain and Matt McCabe.
Deal Wins Phoenix Bass Fishing League Wild Card Regional Championship on Fort Loudon and Tellico Lakes
LENOIR CITY, Tenn. (Nov. 8, 2021) – After a grueling couple of days on the water, boater Ryan Deal of Evansville, Indiana, brought a two-day total of five bass to the scale weighing 15 pounds, 3 ounces to win the no-entry-fee Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine Wild Card Regional Championship at Fort Loudoun and Tellico Lakes. For his victory, Deal earned $5,076 and automatic entry into the 2022 Phoenix Bass Fishing League All-American Championship, as well as priority entry into the Toyota Series – the pathway to the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit and ultimately the Bass Pro Tour.
Hosted by Visit Loudon County and the City of Lenoir City, the Wild Card Regional Championship is a no-entry fee, last-chance shot at the All-American for Phoenix Bass Fishing League anglers that didn’t qualify for a Regional Championship in 2021. An optional side pot was available to anglers who elected to participate at the Wild Card tournament, with the top 20 percent of anglers who elected to participate in the optional pot receiving checks.
The top six boaters and top six Strike King co-anglers advanced to one of the longest-running championships in all of competitive bass fishing – the 2022 Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine All-American, which will be held June 2-4 on Lake Hamilton in Hot Springs, Arkansas, hosted by the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism and Visit Hot Springs.
Running way up the Tennessee River on Fort Loudon, Deal said he caught his fish in about 10 feet of water, chasing a current-based pattern that relied on a morning bite.
Deal said his key bait was a ½-ounce Lunker Lure Rattleback Flipping Jig in green pumpkin with a matching Zoom Super Chunk Jr. trailer on 20-pound Sunline.
“The first day was definitely better,” Deal said. “I caught three good smallmouths early and a largemouth later in the day to bring in 12 pounds, 10 ounces.
“The final day was extremely tough,” continued Deal. “I kept catching 17½-inch smallmouth, but they’ve got to be 18 inches to keep, so I threw back about 10 pounds on Day 2 and only managed to catch one keeper the entire day.”
The Indiana native started fishing with Major League Fishing (MLF) when he was 16 years old and has fished more than 165 Phoenix Bass Fishing League tournaments over the years.
“This is the third BFL event I’ve won, but my first Regional Championship win and my fourth time to qualify for the All-American,” said Deal. “I’m excited and looking forward to going to the All-American again.”
The top six boaters that qualified for the 2022 Phoenix Bass Fishing League All-American were:
2nd: Perry Dawson of Rockwood, Tenn., seven bass, 14-2, $2,538
3rd: Kevin Powers of Unicoi, Tenn., seven bass, 13-12, $1,715
4th: Steve Phillips of Douglas, Ga., seven bass, 12-2, $1,544
5th: Darren Ashley of Calhoun Falls, S.C., five bass, 12-1, $1,372
6th: Wade Ramsey of Choctaw, Okla., seven bass, 11-11, $1,235
8th: Anthony Tardivet Mondo of Ooltewah, Tenn., four bass, 11-5, $1,452
9th: Jason Foster of Ripley, Miss., six bass, 11-4, $500
10th: Darrell Ivey, Jr. of Osage Beach, Mo., seven bass, 10-6, $1,392
Mondo took home an additional $354 for the Day One Berkley Big Bass award in the boater division with a bass weighing 4 pounds, 14 ounces. Mark Wedan of Florence, Alabama won the Day Two Berkley Big Bass award and $354 in the boater division, bringing a 4-pound, 2-ounce bass to the scale.
Foster took home an extra $500 as the highest finishing Phoenix MLF Bonus member. Boaters are eligible to win up to an extra $7,000 per event in each Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine tournament if all requirements are met. More information on the Phoenix MLF Bonus contingency program can be found at PhoenixBassBoats.com.
Gary Meredith of Mount Juliet, Tennessee weighed in five bass over two days totaling 9 pounds, 1 ounce to win the Strike King co-angler division at the Wild Card Regional Championship and earn automatic entry into the 2022 Phoenix Bass Fishing League All-American Championship, as well as priority entry into the Toyota Series.
The top six Strike King co-anglers that qualified for the 2022 Phoenix Bass Fishing League All-American were:
2nd: Jarrod Bailey of Salyersville, Ky., five bass, 9-0, $2,660
3rd: Gary Owens of Columbus, Ind., four bass, 8-2
4th: Brian Zelinskas of Beavercreek, Ohio, four bass, 7-7, $1,330
5th: Russell Woodson of Jonesville, S.C., five bass, 7-6, $899
6th: Kim Sapetti of Chatham, Ill., three bass, 7-5, $809
8th: Don Bible of Knoxville, Tenn., two bass, 6-2, $842
9th: Damon Phillips of Anderson, S.C., four bass, 5-14, $575
10th: Jarrod Egolf of Walkersville, Md., two bass, 5-13, $753
To be eligible to fish the no-entry-fee Wild Card Regional Championship, anglers must have entered all five events within a Phoenix Bass Fishing League division during the 2021 season and fished at least two of those events. In addition, anglers who fished in a regular BFL Regional Championship were ineligible. The full field competed both days at the Phoenix Bass Fishing League Wild Card, with winners determined by the heaviest two-day catch.
For complete details and updated information visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine on MLF’s social media outlets at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
Wong’s Dream Comes True With B.A.S.S. Nation Championship Victory
Matty Wong, of Culver City, Calif., has won the 2021 TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Championship on the Ouachita River with a three-day total of 35 pounds, 9 ounces.
Photo by Dalton Tumblin/B.A.S.S.
November 5, 2021
MONROE, La. — Matty Wong said he envisioned the Bryan V. Kerchal Memorial Trophy sitting on his passenger seat during the 25-hour drive from his home in Culver City, Calif., to the TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Championship.
Turns out, it’ll be there.
Wong caught 15 bass for a three-day total of 35 pounds, 9 ounces to win the championship that concluded Friday on the Ouachita River in north Louisiana. In addition to the hardware, Wong collected a $20,000 Nation’s Best first prize presented by Nitro/Mercury and a spot on the Bassmaster Elite Series in 2022. He’ll have use of a fully-rigged Nation’s Best tournament boat for the Elite season, which he emphatically stated he’ll join.
Wong also earned a berth into the 2022 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk scheduled for March 4-6 on South Carolina’s Lake Hartwell. Washington’s Taylor Smith (second place, 33-15) and former Elite Series angler Jared Miller who hails from Oklahoma (third, 33-7) also claimed spots in the Classic.
Wong, a 33-year old Hawaii-born angler, rallied from an 8-ounce deficit heading into Day 3. He fished cypress laydowns on the main river channel throughout the week and was consistent with his catch. He caught a 12-2 limit on opening day and followed with an 11-2 limit on Day 2, trailing only Alabama’s Coby Carden heading into the finals.
Wong caught a 12-5 bag Friday, with no fish weighing more than 3 pounds.
“I caught a 3-pounder to start the day and felt OK,” he said. “Then I caught another 3-pounder and felt good. When I caught my third 3-pounder, I actually started crying.”
Wong doesn’t hide his emotions. He shed tears again on stage shortly before taking the hot seat with only Carden left to weigh. Carden, who’s reached two previous Classics, mustered only a 6-8 limit on the final day and fell to seventh overall.
That left Wong holding the trophy he dreamed was sitting shotgun on last week’s long drive across the continent.
“This whole thing is a dream,” he said. “I’m absolutely speechless.”
Wong leaned on a variety of balsa wood squarebill crankbaits to boat his best bass, with bluegill, shad and chartreuse as his go-to colors. He also flipped a brown jig and used a War Eagle spinnerbait with a chartreuse blade and chartreuse trailer.
“It basically was trash fishing,” he said. “But I was looking for unusual stretches of laydowns. I was looking for places on the riverbank that were on a bend, after a sandbar or a long stretch of mud.”
Smith, 36, caught the big bag on Friday – a 16-8 limit that vaulted him from 12th place to second. It is the second time he’s finished runner-up at a B.A.S.S. Nation Championship, having done so on Lake Hartwell in 2019. He’ll head there again for his second trip to the biggest event in bass fishing.
“Being in the Classic for me is pretty special,” he said. “Whether it’s Ping-Pong or cornhole, I want to win. So, there will still be pressure.”
Smith used an aluminum boat on Friday to reach a backwater area that wasn’t accessible earlier in the week in his fiberglass boat. He threw a white Bandit crankbait on Day 3 and wound up catching the second-biggest bag of the tournament.
Miller, 37, caught a 13-4 limit on Day 3, moving from seventh place up to third and into a spot in the Classic. His primary bait was a Berkley MaxScent Creature Hawg (green pumpkin).
“Half my fish this week came from squeezing behind docks and the other half came from main-river laydowns,” Miller said.
Both Smith and Miller will have their entry fees paid into the 2022 Bassmaster Opens in all divisions.
Also fishing on Friday were: fourth, Arkansas’ Chris Johnson, 32-6; fifth, Wisconsin’s Jim Barczak, 31-11; sixth, Utah’s Ben Byrd, 30-6; seventh, Carden, 30-4; eighth, Rhode Island’s Mike Wolfenden, 28-0; ninth, South Africa’s Justin Karan, 26-13; 10th, Missouri’s Ray Cates, 26-4; 11th, Pennsylvania’s Aaron Green, 24-15; 12th, Wisconsin’s Dustin Drath, 23-12; 13th, Arizona’s Zack Holwerda, 20-6; and 15th, Minnesota’s Richard Lindgren, 17-4.
A total of 101 anglers from 47 states and three foreign countries competed this week for $96,000 in prize money. The field was narrowed to 14 after Thursday’s cut, including the Top 10 boaters, Cates and Drath from the nonboater division, and Green and Lindgren as leading anglers in the championship from their respective B.A.S.S. Nation regions. Missouri’s Nick Luna finished 14th overall with 17-5 but didn’t make the cut to the final round.
Carden won $1,000 for having the big bass of the tournament (5-7).
Cates won the nonboater division on Thursday. He collected the Louis “Pee Wee” Powers Memorial Trophy as well as a $10,000 cash prize courtesy of Nitro/Mercury. His 4-3 bass was the heaviest among nonboaters and he won another $500 for that catch.
Drath, who finished second among nonboaters, won $7,500, part of a $31,500 purse split among the Top 12 in that division.
As part of the Yamaha Power Pay program, Jason Pittman of Covington, Miss., earned $5,000 as the program’s highest placing entrant while last year’s B.A.S.S. Nation champion and current Elite Series pro Pat Schlapper of Eleva, Wis., claimed an additional $2,500 for being the second-highest placing entrant.
2021 TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Championship - Ouachita River 11/3-11/5
Ouachita River, Monroe LA.
(BOATER) Standings Day 3
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Matty Wong Culver City, CA 15 35-09 0 $20,000.00
Day 1: 5 12-02 Day 2: 5 11-02 Day 3: 5 12-05
2. Taylor Smith Valleyford, WA 15 33-15 0 $15,000.00
Day 1: 5 08-14 Day 2: 5 08-09 Day 3: 5 16-08
3. Jared Miller Norman, OK 15 33-07 0 $10,500.00
Day 1: 5 10-11 Day 2: 5 09-08 Day 3: 5 13-04
4. Chris Johnson Farmington, AR 15 32-06 0 $5,000.00
Day 1: 5 12-12 Day 2: 5 09-02 Day 3: 5 10-08
5. Jim Barczak Osceola, WI 13 31-11 0 $4,000.00
Day 1: 5 13-04 Day 2: 5 08-15 Day 3: 3 09-08
6. Ben Byrd Moab, UT 15 30-06 0 $3,000.00
Day 1: 5 07-13 Day 2: 5 11-01 Day 3: 5 11-08
7. Coby Carden Shelby, AL 12 30-04 0 $3,000.00
Day 1: 5 19-05 Day 2: 2 04-07 Day 3: 5 06-08
8. Mike Wolfenden Warwick, RI 14 28-00 0 $1,000.00
Day 1: 5 12-04 Day 2: 5 08-04 Day 3: 4 07-08
9. Justin Karan Heidelberg Gauteng SOUT 15 26-13 0 $1,000.00
Day 1: 5 10-06 Day 2: 5 07-15 Day 3: 5 08-08
10. Ray Cates Overland Park, KS 11 26-04 0 $11,500.00
Day 1: 5 13-12 Day 2: 3 08-00 Day 3: 3 04-08
11. Aaron Green Everett, PA 11 24-15 0 $500.00
Day 1: 5 15-06 Day 2: 1 01-06 Day 3: 5 08-03
12. Dustin Drath Coon Valley, WI 11 23-12 0 $8,000.00
Day 1: 5 13-09 Day 2: 2 04-06 Day 3: 4 05-13
The Heart of AMart
My brother and I with Aaron Martens at the 2017 Bassmaster Classic Expo in Houston
Courtesy of David Xiong / AnglersChannel.com
In this sport we call bass fishing, we all have our personal favorites. For many it was Clunn, Nixon, Parker. For me, it was VanDam, Iaconelli… Martens. That last one means a bit more to me. It was definitely about what happened off the water than it did on.
I didn’t get into the sports-side of bass fishing until the mid to late 2000s. I attended my first professional bass fishing event in 2011 as part of a wedding gift from my wife, the Bassmaster Classic in New Orleans. My favorite angler ended up winning that event but little did I know that the guy who ended up bridesmaid would leave a more impactful memory.
It was Day 2 of the 2016 Bassmaster Elite event in LaCrosse, Wisconsin. I’ve met Aaron Martens a handful of times prior to this but the interaction I had with him that day would be one that changed me forever.
Having been to the past Elite events in Wisconsin a few years prior, I’ve had mixed interactions with anglers. Some were pleasant, others somewhat cordial and a few that probably didn’t know I existed. On that September day, I didn’t expect anything different.
The weigh-in had just concluded and my brother and I were about to make our way back to the car to begin the 3 hour drive back home. For some reason, we decided to take a stroll through the parking lot where the anglers parked. Rigging up tackle in their boats were Mike Iaconelli and Aaron Martens. My brother had recently gotten into bass fishing and like any basshead, we had some questions and figured we can ask them. For the next hour or so, my brother and I chatted up a storm with Aaron. Mind you, Aaron had qualified to fish the next day and did not eat dinner yet. I believe he was in the mood for sushi. Not once did Aaron make us feel like we were wasting his time or that he had something better to do. He talked fishing, sharing some of the information from the immense database in that head of his. Even though I knew and felt that we should leave him alone so he could go on with his day, Aaron kept talking to us, roping us in like a moth to a flame. From that moment I became an Aaron Martens fan for life.
It was from this day that Aaron, intentionally or not, taught me the importance of treating people like they’re important, regardless of who they are. He didn’t have to spend that time talking to me when he was trying to win $100,000, was hungry and maybe had to use the bathroom. In doing so, he taught me more about being a human than the tips and tricks we discussed about that day. He made sure to make my time with him special. They say that you should never meet your heroes but I’m glad I met Aaron.
Since that day, every time I’ve talked to Aaron, he always spoke to me like I was one of his close buddies. It’s like the conversations you have when you don’t see a friend for quite some time but you seem to pick up where you left off the last time you saw each other.
When I saw the most recent posts from Aaron, I had a feeling that things weren’t looking too good. Having lost my dad to cancer, I knew that Aaron was still fighting but could see that the cancer was beginning to take it’s toll on him. Upon hearing of his passing, I promise you that it didn’t sit well with me. Though saddened, I rejoice knowing that Aaron is now home where he’s cancer-free and furiously catching some hawgs in the pristine lakes of Heaven. I look forward to the day I get to catch my personal best with Aaron and my dad.
-DX
Carden Maintains B.A.S.S. Nation Championship Lead Despite Tough Day On Ouachita River
Coby Carden, of Shelby, Ala., is leading after Day 2 of the 2021 TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Championship on the Ouachita River with a two-day total of 23 pounds, 12 ounces.
Photo by Dalton Tumblin/B.A.S.S.
November 4, 2021
MONROE, La. — Coby Carden had a dismal Day 2 on the Ouachita River, but an especially heavy Day 1 haul allowed him to maintain the lead in the TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Championship.
And that means his hopes of reaching his third Bassmaster Classic remain intact.
The 47-year-old Shelby, Ala., resident caught only two bass Thursday that weighed 4 pounds, 7 ounces. The 19-5 limit he caught a day earlier, however, was strong enough to give him 23-12 overall and a spot atop the leaderboard.
A total of 101 anglers from 47 states and three foreign countries are competing this week for $96,000 in prize money. Also up for grabs are three berths in the 2022 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk scheduled for March 4-6 on South Carolina’s Lake Hartwell.
Carden's been in this position before. He finished second in the Nation Championship on the Ouachita River in 2014 to qualify for the 2015 Classic on Hartwell, where he finished 15th overall. He also fished in the 2014 Classic on Alabama’s Lake Guntersville, placing 24th.
Carden knows he’ll have to improve on Thursday’s weight to make a personal trifecta of Classics. He’s prepared to make changes to get there, too.
“I’m not going back to the spot I’ve been fishing,” Carden said. “The area takes a lot of commitment. It takes an hour and 20 minutes to get there. It’s dangerous to get there. Tomorrow, I’m going to play it more conservative and go in places where I can run a bunch of different water.”
The spot was obviously fizzling out anyway.
“I only had five bites today, and I caught all five,” he said. “But there were three shorts in there. It’s all about decision-making. I’m going to really try to get my primary area out of mind and go fish a bunch of different things ... maybe I can figure something out.”
So, too, will the 13 other anglers who survived Thursday’s cut. They include, second, California’s Matty Wong, 23-4; third, Wisconsin’s Jim Barczak, 22-3; fourth, Arkansas’ Chris Johnson, 21-14; fifth, Kansas’ Ray Cates, 21-12; sixth, Rhode Island’s Mike Wolfenden, 20-8; seventh, Oklahoma’s Jared Miller, 20-3; eighth, Utah’s Ben Byrd, 18-14; ninth, Arizona’s Zack Holwerda, 18-6; 10th, South Africa’s Justin Karan, 18-5; 11th, Wisconsin’s Dustin Drath, 17-15; 12th, Washington’s Taylor Smith, 17-7; 13th, Pennsylvania’s Aaron Green, 16-2; and 14th, Minnesota’s Richard Lindgren, 14-13.
The Top 10 boaters made Friday’s final cut. In addition, Cates advanced by winning the nonboater division and Drath by having a nonboater weight that ranked among the Top 10 boater weights. The Top 2 anglers from each of the five Nation regions (and not in the Top 10 overall) also advanced — Green from the Northeastern Region and Lindgren from the Northern Region.
Wong briefly held the overall lead on Day 2 after catching limits of 12-2 on Wednesday and 11-2 on Thursday.
“It was nice to go into today with the bag I had because it helped me keep an open mind and keep the pressure off,” he said.
Wong said he’s dreamed of reaching the Classic since he was a boy growing up in Hawaii.
“I’m speechless just knowing it’s within reach,” he said. “But I’m not going to think about it. I just have to go fish my brains out.”
Barczak said he’s slow rolling a white/chartreuse spinnerbait around cypress laydowns to catch his best bass. He’s fished near other top competitors on both days of the tournament, but none close enough to compete for bites.
“I’ll spend all day there again tomorrow and hopefully I’ll be alone,” he said.
This week’s winner will collect a $20,000 Nation’s Best first prize presented by Nitro/Mercury. The champ also will earn a spot in the Bassmaster Elite Series in 2022, including the use of a fully-rigged Nation’s Best tournament boat for the season. If he declines the invite to the Elites, he’ll instead have all entry fees paid into each of the 2022 Bassmaster Opens. The second- and third-place anglers also will have their entry fees paid into the Opens in all divisions.
Cates was awarded the Louis “Pee Wee” Powers Memorial Trophy that goes to the top nonboater. He also collected $10,000 courtesy of Nitro/Mercury for finishing atop the co-angler division and another $500 for having the big bass in the nonboater division (4-15).
“I’m going to stay on the main river tomorrow and try to find some fish,” the 59-year-old Overland Park, Kansas, resident said. “It’s a challenge fishing from the back of the boat, especially behind these really good fishermen. I’m looking forward to having some clean water in front of me.”
Drath won $7,500 for placing second among nonboaters. Rounding out the Top 5 in the division are third, Jake Morrison of Scottsdale, Ariz., 15-14; fourth, Joe Sodora of Garfield, N.J., 13-11; and fifth, Mark Pierce of Kadiz, Ky., 11-4. The Top 12 nonboaters split $31,500 of the total prize money.
The third and final day of the event will begin Friday with a 7:15 a.m. CT takeoff from Forsythe Park. Weigh-in will be held back at the park at 3:15 p.m.
Fall Schooling Will Favor Redfish Cup Championship Field
Ten teams will be competing for a grand prize of $50,000 during the Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter in Port Aransas, Texas, Nov. 12-14, 2021.
Photo courtesy Port Aransas Tourism Bureau & Chamber of Commerce
November 4, 2021
PORT ARANSAS, Texas — Travis Land believes that playing the numbers game will be the most consistent strategy for anglers fishing the Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter, Nov. 12-14 at Port Aransas, Texas. Fortunately, the South Texas redfish tournament pro believes seasonal patterns will likely serve up an ideal scenario.
Competition hours are 6:45 a.m.-2.45 p.m. CT, with daily weigh-ins set for 3 p.m. at Fisherman’s Wharf. Ten teams, six of which include B.A.S.S. tournament pros (Bassmaster Elite and Opens tours), will compete for the $50,000 top prize.
“We had the freeze (severe winter storms) back in February and I was concerned about the number of fish that would be in our area, but the time of year we’ll be fishing this tournament is going to be a big plus for us,” Land said. “The redfish will be schooling up this time of the year, and we’ll be trying to find and target those larger schools of redfish in order to find the weight we need.”
Juvenile redfish grow up in the protected inshore waters of bays and estuaries before heading offshore when they reach maturity at approximately 30 inches. Biologists have found that, while mature redfish typically gather in spawning groups near coastal inlets each fall, the larger juveniles — the ones nearing recruitment age — will also form fall schools in what may be explained as practice runs for upcoming transitions.
“That’s what we’ll be targeting; those redfish that are between 27 and 28 inches,” Land said. “Those are the ones that will weigh the most."
The tournament format will allow each team to weigh two redfish between 20 and 28 inches. Seeking those “upper slot” fish — the ones closest to the maximum allowed length — anglers will target a variety of habitat features from the rock jetties guarding coastal inlets, to oyster reefs, shallow grass flats near deeper edges and mangrove shorelines.
Land, who will partner with former NFL player Nicky Savoie, said he believes competitive fish can be caught throughout the entirety of tournament waters — Port O’Connor south to South Bird Island Basin. Nodding to Florida’s famous redfish tradition, he believes that anglers familiar with Sunshine State fisheries will find familiar scenarios in his home waters.
“I expect the Florida guys to do what they’re comfortable with, which is drift the shallow-water flats with clean water near mangroves,” Land said. “The majority of our mangroves were killed in the freeze, so it will look a little different to them, but I expect the Florida fishermen to do well in this tournament because Port Aransas sets up very similar to Florida-style fishing.”
Bait selection will depend on multiple factors, including habitat, depth, wind strength and water clarity. Likely choices include lead-head jigs with swimming tails or synthetic shrimp, gold spoons, topwater plugs, heavy-duty spinnerbaits and cork rigs (a jig suspended below a rattling or popping cork).
With any of these options, tides are essential to the redfish game, both in terms of shallow access, as well as feeding intensity. As Land notes, reds typically eat best on a strong falling tide; however, the tournament days will bring a challenging scenario.
Essentially, with full and new moon cycles exerting the strongest “pull” on coastal waters, these respective weeks typically see greater water movement. Quarter moon cycles, like the waxing gibbous (first quarter on Nov. 11) stage befalling tournament days, see slower tides.
With smaller fluctuations between high and low tides, anglers will find less opportunity to reach into supershallow areas. Conversely, the extreme low tides that often isolate fish in deeper areas won’t occur. Overall water movement will be weaker, but redfish still want to feed, so Land stresses strategic positioning.
“I think you’ll have to focus on where you really want to be when that tide is moving the most,” he said. “You’ll want to be in your best spots that time of day when they are moving.”
Doing so could reward a team with three days of upper-slot fish. Land predicts a winning three-day total of 48 pounds. Breaking down the math, that’s two 8-pound fish a day. Definitely doable this time of year, but, as Land notes, it’s going to come down to playing the numbers game.
“An upper-slot redfish (in this area) is going to weigh 8 to 9 pounds; a lower-slot redfish is going to weight 6 1/2 to 7 1/2,” he said. “I think the team that falls on the right school of fish is going to win. You can fall on a school that’s a bunch of ‘overs’ (redfish over the 28-inch limit), or you could fall on a school that’s a mixed bag.
“I think the team that falls on the school with the most upper-slot fish and can catch fish all day will be the team that wins.”
Fans can catch Bassmaster Redfish LIVE coverage all three days of the tournament as cameras capture all of the action. Bassmaster.com will stream live beginning at 7 a.m. CT on Nov. 12. FS1 will broadcast live Nov. 13 from 7-10 a.m. and Nov. 14 from 7-11 a.m. with continuing coverage available on Bassmaster.com.
Hurry up and Wait......
Vance McCullough
“If you’re not 10 minutes early, you’re late.”
- your grand dad (or somebody similar)
Hurry up and wait. That’s often the drill in adult life. It can be much the same when fishing, especially in the fall.
To put it more accurately, ‘Fish fast, then slow’.
Bass scatter and become nomadic during the fall more so than in other seasons. What had been a stable, if less enthusiastic school of fish holding in predictable places during summer has now dispersed to chase roaming baitfish, mostly in shallow pockets and far up creek arms and tributaries. The good news: fun baits rule now! Crank secondary points, rip jerkbaits and burn flukes over bars and humps, sling spinnerbaits – everywhere. It’s time for walking baits, poppers, buzzbaits and Whopper Ploppers.
Put the trolling motor on a steady pace and go cover water because there’s no telling where you’ll find fish right now. Except, there is. There are very few sure bets in bass fishing but there’s more than a chance that some bass will post up on some form of shallow hard cover and let dinner come to them. Often, these are the biggest, most mature bass in the fishery. They get big and fat because they conserve energy this way.
Docks are an obvious choice, as are laydown logs. Don’t overlook corners or turns in bulkheads and ‘seawalls’, especially in current heavy environs such as rivers. Any place bass can ambush, or trap prey is a high value target. Many such places exist way up the tiniest creeks and canals. Find a ditch and keep going. You can’t fish too shallow in autumn. As options are generally limited, absolutely every piece of cover with water on it is a prime suspect to harbor fish in these types of places. Tread lightly and make long casts.
Clear water calls for faster retrieves so, conversely, the more stained the water, the more valuable a hard target, such as wood, becomes because it gives an angler the confidence that there are fish present and that it will be worth the extra time required to pick the structure apart. Besides, as a general rule, the more off-colored water becomes, the tighter fish will hold to cover.
Fall bass can be stubborn. Repeated casts are often needed to trigger a bite. Switch up the angles too. I remember a trip on a tough Kentucky Lake fishery when Strike King Pro Mark Menendez cranked a tiny pile of brush in 3 feet of water with a squarebill. Repeatedly. “There he is,” said Menendez as the fish finally choked the lure. “I knew there had to be a fish in there, but it took 8 casts to get him to bite. So often that’s the deal – repeated casts. You just have to be more stubborn than the fish when you’re around some obvious cover like that and you know there’s a fish or two in there.”
Jigs are popular in such obvious shallow spots as the weather continues to cool. Not only does a jig offer a bulky profile and substantial meal, but anglers can swim them up in the water column to imitate baitfish and just as quickly hop them along bottom when they suspect the bass have switched to crawfish as a preferred forage species. Versatile as jigs are, they’re not always the best choice. Stick baits may be the undisputed champions of go-to lures when you just gotta have a bite and nothing else is working. They skip well and, as such are great lures to pitch around docks. Flukes skip a little better and land softly, making them indispensable in the shallows as well.
Go burn the flats at warp speed but if the bass don’t think your lures are as fun to eat as you think they are to fish, find an obvious piece of shallow hard cover and hunker down on it.
Giant Bag Lifts Classic Veteran Carden To Lead At B.A.S.S. Nation Championship On Ouachita River
Coby Carden, of Shelby, Ala., is leading after Day 1 of the 2021 TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Championship on the Ouachita River with 19 pounds, 5 ounces.
Photo by Dalton Tumblin/B.A.S.S.
November 3, 2021
MONROE, La. — Coby Carden figured he could catch a good bag of bass on Day 1 of the TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Championship, but he certainly didn’t expect the haul that came his way Wednesday.
Carden, who lives in Shelby, Ala., caught a five-bass limit weighing 19 pounds, 5 ounces to seize the lead on the opening day of the championship on the Ouachita River in north Louisiana. Pennsylvania’s Aaron Green is in second place with a 15-6 limit and Wisconsin’s Jim Barczak is third with 13-4.
In all, 101 anglers from 47 states and three foreign countries are competing in the championship. The top three anglers in the three-day competition will earn berths into the 2022 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk which is scheduled to be held March 4-6 on South Carolina’s Lake Hartwell.
Carden got a jump on the field with his 19-5 bag, anchored by a 5-7 largemouth that was the heaviest of the day. However, an unfortunate equipment malfunction almost made it “the catch that didn’t happen.”
“I set the hook on that fish, and when I did, the reel seat in the rod broke,” Carden said. “The reel fell off into the boat. I had to stick the rod under my arm and pull the line in with my hands.
“It was a cluster for a few minutes there,” he said, chuckling at his good fortune.
Carden has had success on Ouachita before, having finished second in the B.A.S.S. Nation Championship held there in 2014. That qualified him for the Bassmaster Classic in 2015 on Lake Hartwell, where he finished 15th. He placed 24th in the Classic on Alabama’s Lake Guntersville a year earlier.
The 47-year-old angler made a long run on the 605-mile-long Ouachita to start Day 1 — a particularly harrowing trip considering temperatures were below 50 with rain.
Carden fished with a half dozen other boats to start the day before working back down the river, fishing some new water along the way. He said he pitched a creature bait around cypress trees and expects to do the same Thursday.
The sun is expected to make an appearance on Day 2 and Carden isn’t sure how that affects his catch. Still, the nearly 4-pound cushion he built Wednesday certainly won’t hurt his championship cause.
“I thought I could catch 13 pounds today and instead wound up with 19,” he said. “Who knows what happens tomorrow?”
Green didn’t catch a bass until 10:30 a.m. on Day 1, but he relocated to an area that provided the bulk of the day’s second-heaviest bag.
“It was laydowns mostly,” Green said. “We knew they were there, but we had to narrow it down. Once we did, we caught them pretty quickly.”
Barczak said he’s fishing in a cut approximately 45 minutes from the takeoff at Forsythe Park. He said the bass he found were in shallow water, but he thinks they’ll reposition under sunnier skies.
“Most of the guys who are up in the top (of the standings) are in the same area I am, I think,” Barczak said. “I’ll stick with it. It’s all I have.”
Arkansas’ Chris Johnson is in fourth place with 12-12. Trailing just behind him are Rhode Island’s Mike Wolfenden (fifth, 12-4), Minnesota’s Richard Lindgren (sixth, 12-3) and California’s Matty Wong (seventh, 12-2).
Ray Cates of Overland Park, Kan., leads the nonboater division with five bass weighing 13-12. That limit included a 4-15 kicker — the heaviest caught by a nonboater on Day 1. Wisconsin’s Dustin Drath is in second place with 13-9, including a 4-2 largemouth that anchored his bag.
Competitors qualified for the championship through five regional championships held earlier this year. And per usual, B.A.S.S. welcomed the Paralyzed Veterans of America Angler of the Year to the event.
The field is vying for $96,000 in prize money, including a $20,000 Nation’s Best first prize presented by Nitro/Mercury that goes to the top boater. The champ also will earn a spot in the Bassmaster Elite Series in 2022, including the use of a fully-rigged Nation’s Best tournament boat for the season. If the Nation champion turns down the Elite Series berth, they will instead be awarded paid entry fees to the Basspro.com Bassmaster Opens for all divisions. The second- and third-place boaters, as well as the nonboater champ, will have their entry fees paid into the Bassmaster Opens in all divisions.
The top nonboater after Thursday’s weigh-in will collect $10,000, also courtesy of Nitro/Mercury.
Day 2 will begin Thursday with a 7:15 a.m. CT takeoff from Forsythe Park. Weigh-in is scheduled at the park for 3:15 p.m.
After Thursday’s round, the Top 10 boaters and the winning nonboater will advance to fish Friday. The Top 2 boaters from each of the regional tournaments (if not already inside the Top 10 overall) will also make the cut, as will any nonboaters that have totals that rank among the Top 10 boater weights.
2021 TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Championship - Ouachita River 11/3-11/5
Ouachita River, Monroe LA.
(BOATER) Standings Day 1
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Coby Carden Shelby, AL 5 19-05 0
Day 1: 5 19-05
2. Aaron Green Everett, PA 5 15-06 0
Day 1: 5 15-06
3. Jim Barczak Osceola, WI 5 13-04 0
Day 1: 5 13-04
4. Chris Johnson Farmington, AR 5 12-12 0
Day 1: 5 12-12
5. Mike Wolfenden Warwick, RI 5 12-04 0
Day 1: 5 12-04
6. Richard Lindgren Lakeville, MN 5 12-03 0
Day 1: 5 12-03
7. Matty Wong Culver City, CA 5 12-02 0
Day 1: 5 12-02
8. Jason Virgil Hermiston, OR 4 11-02 0
Day 1: 4 11-02
9. Earl Wells Payette, ID 5 10-14 0
Day 1: 5 10-14
10. Nick Luna Grain Valley, MO 5 10-13 0
Day 1: 5 10-13
11. Jared Miller Norman, OK 5 10-11 0
Day 1: 5 10-11
12. Justin Karan Heidelberg Gauteng SOUT 5 10-06 0
Day 1: 5 10-06
13. Kris Bosley Amarillo, TX 5 10-05 0
Day 1: 5 10-05
14. Rick Svoboda Cockeysville , MD 5 10-04 0
Day 1: 5 10-04
15. Devin Knoblauch La Vista, NE 5 10-00 0
Day 1: 5 10-00
16. Zack Holwerda Maricopa, AZ 5 09-09 0
Day 1: 5 09-09
17. Jason Pittman Covington, MS 5 09-02 0
Day 1: 5 09-02
18. Jay Evans Missoula, MT 5 08-15 0
Day 1: 5 08-15
19. Taylor Smith Valleyford, WA 5 08-14 0
Day 1: 5 08-14
20. David Cavell Prairieville, LA 5 08-09 0
Day 1: 5 08-09
21. Bryant Copley Altavista, VA 5 08-08 0
Day 1: 5 08-08
22. Richard Smith Cecilia, KY 5 07-14 0
Day 1: 5 07-14
23. Willie Adkins Jr Wayne, WV 5 07-13 0
Day 1: 5 07-13
23. Ben Byrd Moab, UT 5 07-13 0
Day 1: 5 07-13
25. Kevin Rose Jr Anniston, CT 4 07-10 0
Day 1: 4 07-10
26. Pat Schlapper Eleva, WI 5 07-09 0
Day 1: 5 07-09
27. Michael Belter Reidsville, NC 5 07-08 0
Day 1: 5 07-08
28. Josh Cotier Clinton, MA 5 07-01 0
Day 1: 5 07-01
28. Zack Smith Starke, FL 5 07-01 0
Day 1: 5 07-01
30. Fabian Rodriguez Ocean City, MD 4 06-15 0
Day 1: 4 06-15
31. Will Kanwisher Ramsey, NJ 5 06-14 0
Day 1: 5 06-14
32. Ken Carter Enterprise, FL 4 06-12 0
Day 1: 4 06-12
33. Nobuyuki Terajima Hermitage, TN 5 06-07 0
Day 1: 5 06-07
34. Nick Leonard Amelia, OH 5 06-03 0
Day 1: 5 06-03
35. Andrew Bowen Greendale Harare ZIMBA 5 06-02 0
Day 1: 5 06-02
36. Chad Petrie McKinney, TX 5 05-10 0
Day 1: 5 05-10
37. Tyler Williams Belgrade, ME 5 05-09 0
Day 1: 5 05-09
38. Brock Belik Orchard, NE 4 05-08 0
Day 1: 4 05-08
38. Brandon Moss Blanchard, OK 4 05-08 0
Day 1: 4 05-08
40. Danny McGarry Newcastle CANADA 4 05-05 0
Day 1: 4 05-05
41. Patrick Brown Swainsboro, GA 3 05-04 0
Day 1: 3 05-04
42. Adam Hamann Prairie Du Chien, IA 5 04-11 0
Day 1: 5 04-11
43. Eric Low Buxton, ME 3 04-08 0
Day 1: 3 04-08
44. Bryan Gunter Ninety Six, SC 3 03-14 0
Day 1: 3 03-14
45. Austin Kunz Celestine, IN 3 03-11 0
Day 1: 3 03-11
46. Casey Smith Macedon, NY 3 03-02 0
Day 1: 3 03-02
47. Jacob Stauthammer Lafayette, IL 2 03-00 0
Day 1: 2 03-00
48. William Naugle Lake Havasu City, AZ 2 02-02 0
Day 1: 2 02-02
49. Harrison Bertsch Rathdrum, ID 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
49. Michael Comeau Alburgh, VT 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
49. Greg Sochocki Bridgeport , MI 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
49. Mike Wheaton Ottumwa, IA 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 34 217 392-10
----------------------------------
34 217 392-10
2021 TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Championship - Ouachita River 11/3-11/5
Ouachita River, Monroe LA.
(NON_BOATER) Standings Day 1
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Ray Cates Overland Park, KS 5 13-12 0
Day 1: 5 13-12
2. Dustin Drath Coon Valley, WI 5 13-09 0
Day 1: 5 13-09
3. Jake Morrison Scottsdale, AZ 5 11-11 0
Day 1: 5 11-11
4. Mark Pierce Cadiz, KY 5 10-00 0
Day 1: 5 10-00
5. Russell Vines El Dorado, AR 5 07-13 0
Day 1: 5 07-13
6. Joe Sodora Garfield, NJ 4 07-13 0
Day 1: 4 07-13
7. Michael O'Rourke Curtice, OH 4 07-01 0
Day 1: 4 07-01
8. Michael Schelling Sioux Falls, SD 4 06-14 0
Day 1: 4 06-14
9. Nathan Towes Bakersfield, CA 4 06-06 0
Day 1: 4 06-06
10. Matt Luken Independence, KY 4 05-13 0
Day 1: 4 05-13
11. Tyler Rush Clearville, PA 3 05-08 0
Day 1: 3 05-08
12. Brad Hauf Las Cruces, NM 3 05-00 0
Day 1: 3 05-00
13. Josh Cole Columbus, IN 2 04-09 0
Day 1: 2 04-09
14. Jon Pollock Lakewood, CO 3 04-06 0
Day 1: 3 04-06
15. Scooter Wright Chickasha, OK 4 04-05 0
Day 1: 4 04-05
16. Casey Baroffio Northfield, VT 4 04-04 0
Day 1: 4 04-04
17. Ronald Bestwick Grisword, CT 3 03-15 0
Day 1: 3 03-15
18. Mason Gunter Newnan, GA 2 03-14 0
Day 1: 2 03-14
19. Mark Edmonds Eldridge, AL 3 03-09 0
Day 1: 3 03-09
20. Travis Lugar McGaheysville, VA 4 03-07 0
Day 1: 4 03-07
21. Jody Belcher Naoma, WV 2 03-07 0
Day 1: 2 03-07
22. Morgan Fitzgerald Durango, CO 2 02-13 0
Day 1: 2 02-13
22. Reggie Guffey Jr Bessemer City, NC 2 02-13 0
Day 1: 2 02-13
24. TJ Dobs Verona, NY 2 02-10 0
Day 1: 2 02-10
25. Hunter Loveless American Fork, UT 3 02-09 0
Day 1: 3 02-09
26. Glenn Hahn San Antonio, TX 2 02-00 0
Day 1: 2 02-00
27. Allen Severance Lake Villa, IL 1 02-00 0
Day 1: 1 02-00
28. Dave Turner Crystal River, FL 2 01-12 0
Day 1: 2 01-12
28. Chizta Xiong Saint Cloud, MN 2 01-12 0
Day 1: 2 01-12
30. Dustin Frank Rathdrum, ID 2 01-10 0
Day 1: 2 01-10
31. Greg Hadden Pendleton, OR 2 01-09 0
Day 1: 2 01-09
32. Timothy Garrison Jefferson, SC 1 01-07 0
Day 1: 1 01-07
33. Richard Heflin Topeka, KS 1 01-01 0
Day 1: 1 01-01
33. Rob Tipton III Pitman, NJ 1 01-01 0
Day 1: 1 01-01
35. AJ Mende Bellevue, NE 1 00-15 0
Day 1: 1 00-15
36. Josh Mohn Lansing, IA 1 00-13 0
Day 1: 1 00-13
36. Hunter Neuville New Iberia, LA 1 00-13 0
Day 1: 1 00-13
38. Guiseppe Andreoli Harrisville, RI 1 00-12 0
Day 1: 1 00-12
38. Mark Pryal Silver Springs, MD 1 00-12 0
Day 1: 1 00-12
40. Brian Vogelsang Zanesfield, OH 1 00-11 0
Day 1: 1 00-11
41. Ron Christiansen Las Vegas, NV 1 00-07 0
Day 1: 1 00-07
41. Jake Hansen Bozeman, MT 1 00-07 0
Day 1: 1 00-07
43. Chris Adams Bow, NH 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
43. Cody Champion Sabattus, ME 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
43. Justin Jensen Laurel, MS 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
43. Corey Kennington Eden, MD 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
43. Frank Liu Manotick Ontario CANADA 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
43. Liam MacDonald Glen Lorne Harare ZIMB 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
43. Florian Olivier Carbonne FRANCE 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
43. Tate Webb Richland, WA 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00