AnglersChannel

The Waters of Opportunity

This Week Chris & the boys welcome in NPFL and BASS Opens Pro Joel Willert to the show to talk about his move from FLW last year and why he chose to fish the NPFL Inaugural season & all 3 divisions of the Bassmaster Opens in 2021.

by AnglersChannel

B.A.S.S. Officially Announces 2021 Bassmaster Elite Series Field

Bryan New of Belmont, N.C., who won the Falcon Rods Bassmaster Opens Angler of the Year title, is one of 13 new anglers on the 2021 Bassmaster Elite Series.

Photo by James Overstreet/B.A.S.S.

January 12, 2021

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — A reworked 2020 Bassmaster Elite Series season drew millions of enthusiastic fans to live broadcasts as the Elites became one of the only major sports to complete their full schedule, so it is no surprise that the full field is eager to resume competition. When the Elite Series takes to the St. Johns River to launch the 2021 season in February, the roster will feature 101 anglers.

B.A.S.S. announced the field for the 2021 Elite Series today, and every angler from the 2020 roster is returning, along with 12 qualifiers from the Basspro.com Bassmaster Opens and the TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation champion.

“To have all of the guys back from last year says a lot about the positive momentum we have with the Bassmaster Elite Series,” said B.A.S.S. CEO Bruce Akin. “The reaction to last season was overwhelmingly positive from sponsors and fans. While they may not have always been able to join us lakeside for weigh-ins, B.A.S.S. fans cheered on each big moment while watching live coverage and encouraged their favorite anglers with messages on social media. We’re looking forward to adding 13 incredibly talented anglers into the mix.”

The list of returnees will include the legendary Clark Wendlandt, who fished a brilliant season to secure his first Bassmaster Angler of the Year title to go along with three FLW AOY crowns. Also returning are the six first-time Elite Series champions from 2020: Buddy Gross, Chris Johnston, Lee Livesay, Frank Talley, Patrick Walters and Bill Weidler.

They will be joined by a talented crop of rookies that includes Bryan New of Belmont, N.C., who won the Falcon Rods Bassmaster Opens Angler of the Year title, along with overall qualifiers Marc Frazier of Newnan, Ga., and Matt Robertson of Kuttawa, Ky. The rookie anglers who qualified through the Central Opens are Darold Gleason of Many, La., and Kenta Kimura of Osaka, Japan. Justin Hamner of Northport, Ala., KJ Queen of Catawba, N.C., and Joshua Stracner of Vandiver, Ala., all qualified through the Eastern Opens and round out the rookie class.

Pat Schlapper of Eleva, Wis., will also join the rookie class after winning the TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Championship on Pickwick Lake in November but also earned an invitation via his Top 4 finish in Eastern Opens points.

Four additional 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. and FLW is not considered a rookie.

Scott Martin of Clewiston, Fla., earned an Elite Series invitation through the Eastern Opens division; however, while this will be his first season on the Elite Series, he will not be eligible for the 2021 Rookie of the Year race.

Instead, Martin will join Justin Atkins, Jason Christie and Greg Hackney as established anglers competing on the Elite Series. Atkins (No. 2 in Opens AOY points), Christie (No. 1 in Eastern Opens points) and Hackney (No. 2 in Eastern Opens points) all fished another pro circuit in 2020. Both Christie and Hackney have competed on the Elite Series previously, combining for six Elite event wins and an AOY title.

The 2021 Elite Series schedule will begin Feb. 11-14 with the AFTCO Bassmaster Elite at St. Johns River in Palatka, Fla. From there, it will wind through six states for nine events as anglers compete for cash and prizes and attempt to qualify for the 2022 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk. For the first time in history, every Bassmaster Elite Series event as well as the Bassmaster Classic will feature live television coverage on the FOX Sports platforms.

Each tournament will begin with the full field of anglers on Days 1 and 2 before the field is cut to 50 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.

“Momentum is a powerful thing in any business or sport,” Akin said. “We built a lot of momentum over the last two seasons, and we have a field of anglers who will help us keep it going this year.”

2021 Bassmaster Elite Series Field

1. Matt Arey, Shelby, N.C.
2. Justin Atkins, Florence, Ala.
3. Todd Auten, Lake Wylie, S.C.
4. Drew Benton, Blakely, Ga.
5. Stetson Blaylock, Benton, Ark.
6. Scott Canterbury, Odenville, Ala.
7. Quentin Cappo, Prairieville, La.
8. Brandon Card, Salisbury, N.C.
9. Tyler Carriere, Youngsville, La.
10. Hank Cherry, Lincolnton, N.C.
11. Jason Christie, Park Hill, Okla.
12. Gary Clouse, Winchester, Tenn.
13. Rick Clunn, Ava, Mo.
14. Brandon Cobb, Greenwood, S.C.
15. Keith Combs, Huntington, Texas
16. Drew Cook, Cairo, Ga.
17. John Cox, DeBary, Fla.
18. John Crews, Salem, Va.
19. Clent Davis, Montevallo, Ala.
20. Destin DeMarion, Grove City, Pa.
21. Rob Digh, Denver, N.C.
22. Greg DiPalma, Millville, N.J.
23. Bob Downey, Hudson, Wis.
24. Seth Feider, New Market, Minn.
25. Austin Felix, Eden Prairie, Minn.
26. Marc Frazier, Newnan, Ga.
27. Micah Frazier, Newnan, Ga.
28. David Fritts, Lexington, N.C.
29. Darold Gleason, Many, La.
30. Chris Groh, Spring Grove, Ill.
31. Buddy Gross, Chickamauga, Ga.
32. Jeff Gustafson, Keewatin, Ontario, Canada
33. Greg Hackney, Gonzales, La.
34. Skylar Hamilton, Dandridge, Tenn.
35. Justin Hamner, Northport, Ala.
36. Ray Hanselman Jr., Del Rio, Texas
37. Jamie Hartman, Greenbrier, Ark.
38. Matt Herren, Ashville, Ala.
39. Dale Hightower, Mannford, Okla.
40. Cody Hollen, Beaverton, Ore.
41. Harvey Horne, Bella Vista, Ark.
42. Derek Hudnall, Denham Springs, La.
43. Mike Huff, Corbin, Ky.
44. Taku Ito, Okegawa, Japan
45. Kelley Jaye, Dadeville, Ala.
46. Carl Jocumsen, Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia
47. Chris Johnston, Peterborough, Ontario, Canada
48. Cory Johnston, Cavan, Ontario, Canada
49. Steve Kennedy, Auburn, Ala.
50. Kenta Kimura, Osaka, Japan
51. Koby Kreiger, Alva, Fla.
52. Caleb Kuphall, Mukwonago, Wis.
53. Robbie Latuso, Gonzales, La.
54. Shane LeHew, Catawba, N.C.
55. Brandon Lester, Fayetteville, Tenn.
56. Shane Lineberger, Lincolnton, N.C.
57. Lee Livesay, Longview, Texas
58. Wes Logan, Springville, Ala.
59. Ed Loughran III, Richmond, Va.
60. Bill Lowen, Brookville, Ind.
61. Scott Martin, Clewiston, Fla.
62. Mark Menendez, Paducah, Ky.
63. Yusuke Miyazaki, Forney, Texas
64. Kyle Monti, Okeechobee, Fla.
65. Chad Morgenthaler, Reeds Spring, Mo.
66. Rick Morris, Virginia Beach, Va.
67. Brock Mosley, Collinsville, Miss.
68. Paul Mueller, Naugatuck, Conn.
69. David Mullins, Mt. Carmel, Tenn.
70. Bryan New, Belmont, N.C.
71. Brandon Palaniuk, Rathdrum, Idaho
72. Luke Palmer, Coalgate, Okla.
73. Garrett Paquette, Canton, Mich.
74. Randy Pierson, Oakdale, Calif.
75. Chad Pipkens, DeWitt, Mich.
76. Clifford Pirch, Payson, Ariz.
77. Brett Preuett, Monroe, La.
78. Cliff Prince, Palatka, Fla.
79. KJ Queen, Catawba, N.C.
80. Tyler Rivet, Raceland, La.
81. Matt Robertson, Kuttawa, Ky.
82. Pat Schlapper, Eleva, Wis.
83. Bryan Schmitt, Deale, Md.
84. Bernie Schultz, Gainesville, Fla.
85. Hunter Shryock, Newcomerstown, Ohio
86. Brian Snowden, Reeds Spring, Mo.
87. Joshua Stracner, Vandiver, Ala.
88. Randy Sullivan, Breckenridge, Texas
89. Caleb Sumrall, New Iberia, La.
90. Gerald Swindle, Guntersville, Ala.
91. Jesse Tacoronte, Orlando, Fla.
92. Frank Talley, Temple, Texas
93. Patrick Walters, Summerville, S.C.
94. Bill Weidler, Helena, Ala.
95. Kyle Welcher, Opelika, Ala.
96. Clark Wendlandt, Leander, Texas
97. Brad Whatley, Bivins, Texas
98. Jake Whitaker, Fairview, N.C.
99. Jason Williamson, Wagener, S.C.
100. Jay Yelas, Lincoln City, Ore.
101. Chris Zaldain, Fort Worth, Texas

by AnglersChannel

Zaldain: Bend the hook for better swimbait success

Courtesy of Alan McGuckin - Dynamic Sponsorships

The Megabass Magdraft rigged swimbaits Chris Zaldain uses most frequently to catch super-sized largemouth range in price from $13 to $25 each. Yet, the first thing he’ll tell you to do is bend one of the three shanks on the factory treble hook out to nearly 90-degrees, and then use your pliers to squeeze the other two shanks closer to one another.

“Obviously, every facet of these baits is designed with meticulous detail and innovation, including the hook they come rigged with, but there’s two great reasons to straighten the one shank to nearly 90-degrees,” says the San Jose native who now calls Fort Worth home.

“First, by straightening it out and then reinserting it in the body, it stays anchored in the belly of the bait way better when it splashes down at the end of a long cast. And secondly, when I skip it around and under docks, it stays anchored way better too,” he explains.

Zaldain’s habit of using pliers to squeeze the two remaining exposed hooks closer is a reflection of years spent casting these favorite lures. And experience has taught him he lands more fish when the two exposed hooks are squeezed tighter to one another.

Fact is, he’s won a million bucks fishing professionally, cashing a check in a super-impressive 72% of the B.A.S.S. events he’s competed in, and he’ll unapologetically tell you if conditions allowed, he throw a Magdraft swimbait nearly every day. Thankfully for all us wanting to learn more, his gracious advice doesn’t stop at how to bend the hooks.

Just out of sight, and barely get the tail wagging

“Just like Jimmy Houston taught us all to retrieve a spinnerbait just deep enough to where you could barely see it flash, the same rule pretty much applies to swimbaits,” says Zaldain. “And as far as the speed of retrieve, you want to wind it just barely fast enough to get the tail wagging – no faster, no slower.”

Throw it at the most obvious stuff

You might think fishing pressure and a subsequently educated population of largemouth has ruled out most of the obvious forms of habitat such as bridge pilings, primary points, or that lone isolated dock that sticks out like a sore thumb – but Zaldain makes a great point about exactly why you should never pass those places up with a swimbait.

“Those places still hold fish, and while they may not bite a lot of baits on those spots, the thing you have to remember is the fish that live on that obvious stuff are seeing very few if any 6” or 8” swimbaits.”

CZ’s swimbait gear

When throwing his tournament favorite 6” Magdraft, he ties it to 15-pound fluorocarbon on a 7.1:1 reel and a 7” 2” jig pitching rod. But when he beefs up to the 8” version, his line and rod size follow – choosing 25-pound fluorocarbon and beefier a 7’ 6” flipping stick.

Don’t make the biggest mistake

When asked what the biggest mistake most people make with swimbaits, Zaldain didn’t have to think about it.

“People make five or six casts with it and set it back down. You gotta fish it, man. If you throw it long enough, there’s a real good chance you’ll get bit by the size of fish that’ll forever change your approach to this sport we love.”

by AnglersChannel

Fishing’s Best Flow

Z-Man^® snags Bassmaster Elite star Seth Feider

Ladson, SC (January 12, 2020) – For a dude whose BassFan profile lists sideburns and chest hair as his biggest weaknesses, Seth Feider brings an awfully strong salad game. Beyond his rising street cred on the Bassmaster Elite Series, Feider’s trademark mustache and spicy blonde mullet have made the Bloomington, Minnesota based bass ace one of the most recognizable anglers in the country.

“Z-Man respects high-end facial hair,” quips Joey Prochazka, pro-staff and promotions manager for Z-Man Fishing Products. “Seriously, we’re super happy to welcome Seth to team Z. He’s the real deal—a genuine dude who shoots it to you straight. Of course, he’s already logged a really successful tournament career on the Bassmaster Elite Series, and sits at the top of his game right now.

“No doubt, he’ll fit right in with our motley bunch of Z-Man pros—all exceptional anglers as well as good gals and guys; friendly, approachable people who know how to catch fish anywhere there’s water.”

New Z-Man pro Seth Feider continues his hot-streak on the Bassmaster Elite Series.

Feider, who owns an uncanny knack for filtering out the fluff and getting down to brass tacks, summarizes the formalized friendship. “I’ve been stealing ElaZtech® baits and ChatterBaits® out of Gussy’s stash for years,” admits Feider. “Heck, I’ve won a lot of money on Z-Man stuff under the radar. Figured it was time to get on board with these guys and work with a company whose baits really work—stuff I prefer to have at the end of my line as opposed to just doing the whole sales pitch thing. I mean, Z’s one of the topnotch fishing companies out there right now—I think a lot of the anglers are figuring that out.”

When asked to explain his appeal, Feider goes all modest. “Guess you could say I’m pretty easy going. Honest. Maybe too much so, at times. But yeah, I’m certainly capable of getting excited, too—especially when thigs go well and the tournament is over. On the water, though, for the most part, I stay pretty chill.”

Feider, who travels the tournament road with fellow Z-Man pro Jeff “Gussy” Gustafson, also shares his buddy’s fondness for north-country smallmouth bass. “Gussy’s the one who put me on the ElaZtech Hula StickZ™ on a Ned rig. I saw right away, the durability, flotation and action of that little thing gets me way more bites from quality smallmouths. I mean, the Ned rig buoyancy deal routinely cranks out like ten bites to one against other baits that don’t stand up. Looks to me like the perfect mimic of a crawdad’s defensive posture. Regardless, it seems like I’ve already caught like a million smallmouths on that little bait.”

A dropshot aficionado from way back, Feider entered his Z-Man alliance already familiar with another elite ElaZtech bait. “I fish that StreakZ™ on a dropshot all the time. Sometimes, the 3.75-inch one is the deal. But at last year’s St. Clair tourney, I threw the bigger 5-inch StreakZ a bunch and it got me way more quality bites. The buoyancy of that bait is key—keeps it floating up above the grass and where bass can see it from a long ways away.”

A current project has Feider prospecting with some of the full-sized Z-Man baits in search of high-grade largemouth bites. “Suppose it’s no surprise I’ve been a huge fan of the (ChatterBait) JackHammer,” he notes. “I mean, who isn’t, right? Threw that bait at the 2020 Classic and again at Lake Fork for real strong finishes at both events.

“This year, it’ll be fun to start dialing in to some of the other Z-Man ChatterBait patterns, like the StealthBlade™, Freedom CFL™ on deep structure and WillowVibe™. That bait should be a player for big smalljaws and suspended spots.”

On his usual tourney game, Feider likes flipping brush or swim-jigging milfoil mats; he pitches a Neko rig everywhere else. “That 7-inch Mag FattyZ™ is really becoming a big deal for largemouths. I’ll be throwing that on a Neko rig a ton this year. And the Turbo CrawZ™ is already becoming my favorite trailer on the back of a swim jig. Guess you could say I’m feeling a little like a kid in a candy store right now.”

During the off-season, Feider approaches life more or less low key. “Fall and winter in Minnesota, I do a lot of duck hunting. I also like to sneak out in my duck boat for a little river fishing, or put in on a bunch of secret little lakes; do things sort of incognito.”

For the affable, fan-favorite angler, that’s becoming more and more of a challenge—particularly among the younger crowd who’ve been known to follow Feider like puppies before and after tournaments. He’s cool with that, too. Chalk the likeability factor up to his chill attitude, unmistakable style and the ‘do and ‘stache Feider refers to as ‘a Minnesota thing.’

“Yeah, we’ve got the Minnesota All Hockey Hair Team deal (Google it.) But for me the hair has always been a superstition thing. Kind of like keeping a Han Solo action figure in my boat as a good luck charm. Years ago, I’d cut my hair short at the start of the season and let it grow out all year. Seemed like I always did better toward the end of the season, so eventually, I just let it ride. Guess you could say, it’s kind of worked out.”

by AnglersChannel

Panzironi Wins Phoenix Bass Fishing League on Harris Chain

LEESBURG, Fla. (Jan. 11, 2021) – Eric Panzironi of Longwood, Florida, brought a five-bass limit to the scale Saturday weighing 24 pounds, 12 ounces to win the 2021 Phoenix Bass Fishing League presented by T-H Marine at Harris Chain of Lakes in Leesburg, Florida. Panzironi earned $6,000 for his victory.

“I stayed on Harris all day, which was a short run for me but it worked out nicely,” said Panzironi. “I caught all my fish on a black-colored Zoom Magnum Trick Worm in 10 to 12 feet of mostly dirty water.

“The real key to the victory was the Garmin LiveScope. I caught every single one of my fish directly beneath my boat and I could see them all. I dropped down to them and they’d eat it – it was amazing.”

Panzaroni said he was excited to walk away with a win at the first tournament of the year for the Gator division.

“It’s awesome – I love it,” he said. “To start off 2021 with a win at my first event – I definitely have no regrets.”

The top 10 boaters finished the tournament as follows:

1st: Eric Panzironi of Longwood, Fla., five bass, 24-12, $6,000
2nd: Peter Thliveros of Saint Augustine, Fla., five bass, 22-7, $3,000
3rd: Joshua Parry of Saint Johns, Fla., five bass, 20-11, $3,000
4th: Jonathan Semento of Okahumpka, Fla., five bass, 19-8, $1,900 (includes $500 Phoenix Bonus)
5th: Tyler Sheppard of Jacksonville, Fla., five bass, 19-7, $1,200
6th: Grady Johnson of Saint Cloud, Fla., five bass, 18-7, $1,100
7th: Bill Troyer of Sarasota, Fla., five bass, 17-11, $1,000
8th: Robert Crosnoe of Inverness, Fla., five bass, 17-10, $900
9th: Grady Maynard of Umatilla, Fla., five bass, 17-4, $800
10th: McCoy (Simon) Borja of Fruitland Park, Fla., five bass, 16-9, $700

Complete results can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.

Parry also caught the largest bass in the Boater Division, a 10-pound, 2-ounce largemouth, which was good for the day’s Boater Big Bass award of $1,000.

Semento took home an extra $500 as the highest finishing Phoenix MLF BIG5 Contingency 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 BIG5 Bonus contingency program can be found at PhoenixBassBoats.com.

Mike Garrett of Pensacola, Florida, won the Co-angler Division and $3,000 Saturday after catching a five-bass limit weighing 22 pounds, 3 ounces.

The top 10 co-anglers finished as follows:

1st: Mike Garrett of Pensacola, Fla., five bass, 22-3, $3,000
2nd: Shaun Ireland of Lake Worth, Fla., five bass, 17-4, $1,500
3rd: Aymon Wilcox of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., five bass, 17-3, $1,000
4th: Justin Brown of Frostproof, Fla., five bass, 16-6, $900
5th: Bradley Phillips of Alachua, Fla., five bass, 15-11, $600
6th: Justin Bun of Lake Alfred, Fla., five bass, 15-0, $550
7th: Joshua Dunn of Mulberry, Fla., five bass, 14-7, $500
8th: Jason Cooper of Shelbyville, Tenn., five bass, 14-0, $450
9th: Bobby McMullin of Pevely, Mo., five bass, 13-12, $400
10th: Jake Stines of Plant City, Fla., five bass, 12-8, $350

Luke Cocke of Valdosta, Georgia caught the largest bass in the Co-angler Division, a fish weighing in at 8 pounds, 2 ounces. The catch earned him the day’s Co-angler Big Bass award of $500.

The 2021 Phoenix Bass Fishing League presented by T-H Marine on the Harris Chain of Lakes was hosted by Visit Lake County, FL.

The top 45 boaters and co-anglers in the Gator Division based on point standings, along with the five winners of each qualifying event, will be entered in the Oct. 21-23 Phoenix Bass Fishing League Regional Championship on the St. Johns River in Palatka, Florida, hosted by the Putnam County Tourist Development Council. Boaters will compete for a $60,000 prize package, including a new Phoenix 819 Pro bass boat with a 200-horsepower Mercury outboard and $10,000, while co-anglers will fish for a new Phoenix 819 Pro bass boat with a 200-horsepower Mercury outboard.

The 2021 MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League presented by T-H Marine is a 24-division circuit devoted to weekend anglers, with 128 tournaments throughout the season, five qualifying events in each division. The top 45 boaters and co-anglers from each division, along with the five winners of the qualifying events, will advance to one of six regional tournaments where they are competing to finish in the top six, which then qualifies them for one of the longest-running championships in all of competitive bass fishing – the Phoenix Bass Fishing League All-American.

The 2021 Phoenix Bass Fishing League All-American will be held June 3-5 at Douglas Lake in Dandridge, Tennessee and hosted by the Jefferson County Department of Tourism. The top 45 boaters and co-anglers plus tournament winners from each Phoenix Bass Fishing League division earn priority entry into the Toyota Series, the pathway to the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit and ultimately the MLF Bass Pro Tour.

by AnglersChannel

Rodgers & Burleigh win BassChamps Opener on Rayburn with 26.69, 13 pounder wins Big Fish!

Travis Moore and Norman Land with their 13.44 lb Sharelunker

Place

JOSH RODGERS
BEAUMONT , TX

CASEY BURLEIGH
ORANGE , TX

7.23

26.69

$20200.00 with Sure-Life Bonus

KEELAN MANUEL
SULPHUR , LA

CLINT CONRAD
MOSS BLUFF , LA

24.33

$6500.00

PETE LOWE
WOODWORTH , LA

JERRY STROTHER
GLENMORA , LA

21.00

$5000.00

RUSTY CLARK
BROOKELAND , TX

CORY RAMBO
ORANGE , TX

20.61

$4500.00

WYATT FRANKENS
CORRIGAN , TX

CODY BARCHENGER
TAYLOR , TX

20.21

$3500.00

KENNY COLE
KENNARD , TX

JERAMY COLE
KENNARD , TX

19.39

$2500.00

SAMMY CHRISTIAN
LUMBERTON , TX

ALLAN SHIVERS
JASPER , TX

6.89

19.32

$2000.00

TRAVIS MOORE
CLEVELAND , TX

NORMAN LAND
CLEVELAND , TX

13.44

19.28

$2950.00 with Big Bass,Techron, Abu-Garcia

JASON MOORHEAD
JASPER , TX

TY MOORHEAD
JASPER , TX

19.13

$1400.00

KURTICE FLOYD
NEWTON , TX

18.45

$1300.00

JADEN PARRISH
LIBERTY , TX

CODY PARRISH
LIBERTY , TX

18.13

$1200.00

BRANNON MIRE
BLOUSSARD , LA

DENNIS NARCISSE
ST MARTINVILLE , LA

9.59

18.05

$1100.00

CODY PITT
HINESTON , LA

RICHARD ALLEN
ANACOLO , LA

17.96

$1090.00

CLINT WADE
HUNTSVILLE , TX

STACY SPRIGGS
HUNTSVILLE , TX

17.79

$1080.00

GEORGE GLASS
DERRIDER , LA

KANE BASS
DE RIDDER , LA

17.71

$1060.00

JEFF GRUBBS JR
DICKINSON , TX

JEFF GRUBBS SR
GOODRICH , TX

17.71

$1060.00

TODD CASTLEDINE
NACOGDOCHES , TX

JASON BONDS
LUFKIN , TX

17.71

$3560.00 with Skeeter Bonus Cash

RALPH DUPUY
GROVES , TX

BRYANT RODRIGUES
PORT NECHES , TX

8.83

17.62

$1035.00

CHRIS CLEMENS
LUFKIN , TX

DALLAS COLE
LEESVILLE , LA

17.62

$1035.00

BOB SIGNORIN
OAKHURST , TX

TRAVIS SIGNORIN
WILLIS , TX

17.55

$1020.00

JEFF BRIDGES
PROSPER , TX

PETE ELLIOTT
VIDOR , TX

17.32

$1010.00

JAMES BLYTHE JR
ELM GROVE , LA

KEVIN LASYONE
DRY PRONG , LA

17.22

$2000.00 with Skeeter Bonus Cash

BUBBA NUGENT
POLLOCK , LA

JOHN BENOIT
POLLOCK , LA

17.20

$1500.00 with Skeeter Bonus Cash

KRIS WILSON
MONTGOMERY , TX

BRYAN LOHR
LUMBERTON , TX

16.87

$1000.00

OSCAR LANGELE JR
MANY , LA

JAMES CAMPISE
ORANGE , TX

16.85

$1000.00

MICHAEL LATHAM
LUFKIN , TX

BEN VAUGHAN
LUFKIN , TX

16.49

$1000.00

WILL CARSTENS
ALEXANDRIA , LA

ROSS BRYANT
ALEXANDRIA , LA

16.39

$1000.00

CHRIS MOORE
ROCKWALL , TX

KY MARTIN
GRANDVIEW , TX

16.26

$1000.00

MARK MCWHIRTER
ARGYLE , TX

ZEB STRICKLAND
TIOGA , TX

16.16

$1000.00

PHILIP CRELIA
CENTER , TX

TJ GOODWYN
CENTER , TX

16.00

$1000.00

JAKE GOODRUM
CLEVELAND , TX

RAY BURNETT
CLEVELAND , TX

15.96

$1000.00

DENNIS COURTNEY
LAKE CHARLES , LA

GRADY MAYEAUX
RAGLEY , LA

15.91

$1000.00

GROVER MANSFIELD
BROOKELAND , TX

CORT WESTOVER
NEED INFO

15.70

$1000.00

ANDREW GOLDEN
CENTER , TX

JOHN BARRERA
MILAM , TX

15.63

$1000.00

CRAIG MASSEY
HOUSTON , TX

SCOTT HOLIFIELD
GRAND BAY , AL

15.58

$1000.00

PHILIP HANKS
BUNA , TX

RODNEY SAMMONS
BUNA , TX

15.58

$1000.00

CLAYTON BOULWARE
ZAVALLA , TX

ALBERT COLLINS
NACOGDOCHES , TX

15.56

$1000.00

WES OUSLEY
LUMBERTON , TX

TYLER OUSLEY
LUMBERTON , TX

15.32

$1000.00

TIM RENEAU
RICHLAND SPINGS , TX

JUDY RENEAU
RICHLAND SPRINGS , TX

15.12

$1000.00

JARRETT LATTA
LIBERTY HILL , TX

BRIAN LOWRANCE
NACOGDOCHES , TX

14.97

JAMES LARAMORE
VIDOR , TX

GARRETT HILTON
BEAUMONT , TX

14.73

NATHAN STROUP
WILLIS , TX

WELSEY JOHNSON
WILLIS , TX

14.66

COLE MOORE
ANACOCO , LA

RICHARD BACON
BASILE , LA

14.65

SCOOTER CLARK
CENTER , TX

RYAN PINKSTON
CENTER , TX

14.30

JAY STIDHAM
CHINA SPRING , TX

CHARLIE GANTENBEIN
TEMPLE , TX

5.78

14.28

TED PRIESING
DALLAS , TX

VIRGIL CHANEY
JASPER , TX

14.24

MARSHALL HUGHES
HEMPHILL , TX

COLE STEWART
HEMPHILL , TX

14.23

ED MELTON
HOUSTON , TX

HORACE FRAZIER
MANY , LA

14.15

CADE DURIO
LAKE CHARLES , LA

JOHN DURIO
HEMPHILL , TX

14.12

BLAKE ISTRE
ORANGE , TX

DYLAN ISTRE
ORANGE , TX

14.10

ROBERT MORE
LEESVILLE , LA

JERRY COUTEE
MONTGOMERY , LA

13.98

TERRY HELGESON
LEESVILLE , LA

CHRIS HELGESON
TEMPLE , TX

13.93

MICHAEL SCALISE
PORT ALLEN , LA

CORY CHUSTZ
LAKELAND , LA

13.89

MIKE RICHARDSON
THORNDALE , TX

SCOTT MEADS
KILLEEN , TX

13.82

LARRY WEPPLER
HOUSTON , TX

DENNIS FIKES
HOUSTON , TX

13.40

RANDY MILLENDER
TEAGUE , TX

KENNETH NICHOLS
TEAGUE , TX

13.35

RODNEY LEWIS
CROCKETT , TX

DAVID DRISKELL
CROCKETT , TX

13.06

STEVEN RIZZO
PROSPER , TX

CHRIS STRATTA
LITTLE ELM , TX

12.77

MELVIN DUNN
ORANGE , TX

DOMONICK POULLARD
HOUSTON , TX

12.64

CHAD KEMP
BRIDGE CITY , TX

BRENT KEMP
ORANGE , TX

12.47

SHANNON PRICE
PORT ARTHUR , TX

JOHNNY VINES
GROVES , TX

12.42

JASON RILEY
MONTGOMERY , TX

BRIAN RISH
MONTGOMERY , TX

12.41

JONATHAN SIMON
ORANGE , TX

COREY STANLEY
ORANGE , TX

12.04

TEDDY CLOIDE
VIDOR , TX

WESLEY DAWSON
CHESTER , TX

12.03

BUSTER JOHNSON
KRUM , TX

CODY MORRISON
COLLINSVILLE , TX

12.00

$250 Skeeter Dealer Even Weight Bonus Card

BRYAN LANDERS
JASPER , TX

JOSH PRIEST
QUITMAN , TX

11.98

JARRED WILLIAMS
BUNKIE , LA

MATHEW ARMAND
HESSMER , LA

11.93

LARRY COTTEN
HUFFMAN , TX

NICK DIBERARDINO
JASPER , TX

11.91

CONNAN CLINE
ANACOCO , LA

JOE COOLEY
FLORIEN , LA

11.86

JOSEPH NORRIS
BOSSIER CITY , LA

BARTON BLAKELOCK
WAELDER , TX

11.86

BRANDON PICOU
LAKE CHARLES , LA

JOE WARD
IOWA , LA

11.79

BLAKE HARVEY
VIDOR , TX

LANCE FREEMAN
EDDYVILLE , KY

11.63

SEAN MECHE
LAKE CHARLES , LA

RODNEY OWENS
RAGLEY , LA

11.59

TOMMY SHELTON
MONTGOMERY , TX

DAN WILLIAMSON
JASPER , TX

11.59

CHARLES GUTHRIE
CONROE , TX

COLE BREWER
LEESVILLE , LA

11.40

SHELBY SHAW
HUNTSVILLE , TX

WESLEY LEWIS
KIRBYVILLE , TX

11.37

BRANDON DAVIDSON
LITTLE ELM , TX

JIM FURR
HEMPHILL , TX

11.21

JOHN ILES
LUFKIN , TX

BRIAN SHOOK
CHINA , TX

11.09

JASON REAVES
MONTAGUE , TX

JOHN BALLARD
WICHITA FALLS , TX

11.03

LANCE SILVERTOOTH
KILGORE , TX

CHARLIE BROWN III
FLINT , TX

11.00

GREG OSTERTAG
MT VERNON , TX

BRENT EDWARDS
MIDLOTHIAN , TX

10.95

JUSTIN CHILDRESS
MANSFIELD , LA

ROY LOVE JR
STONEWALL , LA

10.92

BRIAN SALAS
FT WORTH , TX

COLT FARRIS
JOSHUA , TX

10.71

ALLEN SHELTON
FARMERS BRANCH , TX

STRIDER BROWNING
TIMPSON , TX

10.70

JOHN HIGHTOWER
BROOKELAND , TX

HUNTER HIGHTOWER
BROOKELAND , TX

10.64

CHARLES HICKMAN
HUNTINGTON , TX

TERRY HICKMAN
KINGWOOD , TX

10.56

JACK TINDEL III
ORANGE , TX

DALTON SOLIZ
ORANGE , TX

10.50

RANDY DEAVER
BLANCHARD , LA

JEFF RICE
BENTON , LA

10.36

TRAVIS PITRE
HOUMA , LA

HARRIS ALLEMAND
STEPHENVILLE , LA

10.30

MARTIN ELSHOUT
ABITA SPRINGS , LA

MARK PRICE
RUSTON , LA

10.15

AARON WILSON
KEMP , TX

SALVADOR PEREZ
FERRIS , TX

10.09

RANDY DESPINO
COLFAX , LA

WILLIAM DOWDEN
ANACOCO , LA

10.02

LARRY PRICE
CROSBY , TX

RYDER PRICE
LA GRANGE , TX

9.95

KOOPER ABERNATHY
ORANGE , TX

TRENT BUCHHOLZ
BEAUMONT , TX

9.93

GENE EISENMANN
FRISCO , TX

GILBERT MILLER
MIDLOTHIAN , TX

9.88

MARK MARTIN
VIDOR , TX

CHRIS MCCLAIN
ORANGE , TX

9.65

ROBERT DUKES
HINESTON , LA

RAYMOND ROLLINS
GLENMORA , LA

9.51

COLBY CALONGNE
CYPRESS , TX

TAYLOR STRANGE
WHITEHOUSE , TX

9.33

CHRIS EAVES
PORTER , TX

ROBERT SCOTT
LIVINGSTON , TX

9.11

100

NICK BROWN
LINDALE , TX

CHAD THEDFORD
TYLER , TX

8.65

101

JIMMY BRUMFIELD
MADISON , MS

TONY OWEN
CARTHAGE , MS

8.59

102

CASEY FRIDAY
LAPORTE , TX

MICHAEL CLEMENTS
SANTAFE , TX

8.49

103

BRETT CASSIDY
PASADENA , TX

MICHAEL BELVIN
ALVIN , TX

8.33

104

JIM CULP
TULSA , OK

THOMAS BOWDEN SR
LAFAYETTE , LA

7.32

105

KEVIN MASON
COLDSPRING , TX

TODD HUGHES
GOODRICH , TX

7.18

106

BRIAN RAMOUR
VIDOR , TX

AUSTIN BROUSSARD
PORT NECHES , TX

7.06

107

LEON STONE
CARTHAGE , TX

AUSTIN STONE
CARTHAGE , TX

6.94

108

STEPHANIE PELLERIN
VILLAGE MILLS , TX

STEVEN PELLERIN
VILLAGE MILLS , TX

6.16

109

BILL DAIGLE
LAFAYETTE , LA

ANDRE CHAPMAN
CHURCH POINT , LA

6.11

110

ROBERT VANZANDT
MONTGOMERY , TX

JOE DAW
MONTGOMERY , TX

5.82

111

JUSTIN WOOLARD
BEDFORD , TX

DANIEL WOOLARD
HEATH , TX

4.15

112

JESSE FLAKE
JEWETT , TX

LEONARD FLAKE
JEWETT , TX

3.89

113

BILLY LAWSON
VAN , TX

JOHN BOWLING
BROKEN BOW , OK

2.43

114

LARRY MATTHEWS
LEAGUE CITY , TX

RANDALL HALL
ALVIN , TX

1.98

115

ROBBIE JOHNSON
GOODRICH , TX

JARROD CLARK
SANTA FE , TX

0.64

116

KERRY CAMPBELL
GOODRICH , TX

CLIFFORD HINZE JR
GOODRICH , TX

0.00

116

GENE BAGLEY
BEAUMONT , TX

MITCH STEPHENSON
BEAUMONT , TX

0.00

116

LEE BATSON
HEATH , TX

JUSTIN GARRETT
HEATH , TX

0.00

116

DUANE PITTMAN
PRAIRIEVILLE , LA

DWIGHT MINOGUE
KEITHVILLE , LA

0.00

116

GREG WEST
QUITMAN , TX

JOEY SHOEMAKE

0.00

116

TODD NEWMAN
NACOGDOCHES , TX

SHANNON HALE
NACOGDOCHES , TX

0.00

116

WILLIAM LLOYD
SHELBYVILLE , TX

COLLIN LLOYD
SHELBYVILLE , TX

0.00

116

BLAKE STEPTOE
SAN AUGUSTINE , TX

CODY WISE
CHIRENO , TX

0.00

116

KEITH JENSCHKE
NATCHITOCHES , LA

JOHN HRAPMANN
NATCHITOCHES , LA

0.00

116

RYAN HARPER
FRANKSTON , TX

BRANDON CLAYTON
HASLET , TX

0.00

116

ROBERT GRAFTON
ANACOCO , TX

LANCE GRAFTON
ANACOCO , TX

0.00

116

WARREN CONNER
MAGNOLIA , TX

MIKE HANKS
HEMPHILL , TX

0.00

116

ERIC PHILLIPS
KERENS , TX

0.00

116

HUNTER MARSHALL
BEAUMONT , TX

SHANE SPENCE
LUMBERTON , TX

0.00

116

CHARLES GALLAGHER
LAWTON , OK

0.00

116

CHRIS ROMANO
ORANGE , TX

STUART WELCH JR
ORANGE , TX

0.00

116

JAMES DORTLON
MARTHAVILLE , LA

LAYNE LACAZE
ROBELINE , LA

0.00

116

KENNETH DAVIS
MONTGOMERY , TX

BURT BRIGGS
UNIVERSAL CITY , TX

0.00

116

MICHAEL BOHAC
COLDSPRING , TX

THOMAS LEARNED
CONROE , TX

0.00

116

CHUCK BISHOP
SANGER , TX

JUNIOR MITCHELL
KRUGERVILLE , TX

0.00

116

TERRY HOTARD
HEMPHILL , TX

CHARLIE LAMASTUS
HEMPHILL , TX

0.00

116

TONY DAVIS
CROSBY , TX

LEVI DAVIS
CROSBY , TX

0.00

116

RICKY STEPHENS
HINESTON , LA

RUSSELL MILLER
ELMER , LA

0.00

116

MARSHALL HOSEA
BROADDUS , TX

BUD PRUITT
HOUSTON , TX

0.00

116

BRANDON GUILLORY
LAKE CHARLES , LA

MARK SPELL
LAKE CHARLES , LA

0.00

116

ERIC BRIGMAN
BRYAN , TX

HAROLD MOORE
CALDWELL , TX

0.00

116

KIRK MCCARTY
BROOKELAND , TX

0.00

116

ROBERT CHRISMAN
WHITEHOUSE , TX

ADDIS MCCARVER
NACOGDOCHES , TX

0.00

116

JAMES BOUDREAUX
IOWA , LA

GREGORY GUIDRY
SULPHUR , LA

0.00

116

CODY CLARK
HERMPHILL , TX

SHANNON FRICK
HEMPHILL , TX

0.00

116

SHAINE CAMPBELL
BROOKELAND , TX

CRAIG CORDOVA
AUSTIN , TX

0.00

116

LANCE DUFF
LUMBERTON , TX

COLE COSTLOW
LIBERTY , TX

0.00

116

JEFF LANE
PORT NECHES , TX

HEATHER SMITH
BROOKELAND , TX

0.00

116

LARRY BYRD
LAKE CHARLES , LA

TRAVIS BROUSSARD
LAKE CHARLES , LA

0.00

116

DAVID CURTIS
TRINITY , TX

MARK MUECK
LIVINGSTON , TX

0.00

116

ARCHIE DORE II
NATCHITOCHES , LA

ANDY BARNES
NATCHITOCHES , LA

0.00

116

GLEN KIMBLE
LUFKIN , TX

RICHARD CRENSHAW
LUFKIN , TX

0.00

116

JAMES DAVIS JR
FERRIDAY , LA

CEDRIC JACKSON
HOUSTON , TX

0.00

116

MIKE EDWARDS
ETOILE , TX

MIKE GREER
DERIDDER , LA

0.00

116

DOUG MCCAIN
LAKE CHARLES , LA

MASON MCCAIN
LAKE CHARLES , LA

0.00

116

JOHN MCDIFFITT
GRANBURY , TX

STEPHEN WELLS
MARSHALL , TX

0.00

116

LORIN LIVELY
MONTGOMERY , TX

GARY MCCORQUODALE
PORTER , TX

0.00

116

DAVID ADKINS
MONTGOMERY , TX

GARY GILLIHAN
BIG SPRING , TX

0.00

116

CLINT WEST
BEAUMONT , TX

NATHAN PRINE
BUNA , TX

0.00

116

ERIC HUNT
BUNA , TX

STEVEN MOORHEAD
JASPER , TX

0.00

116

PAUL BATMAN
SILSBEE , TX

JESSE FLOYD
NEDERLAND , TX

0.00

116

DANIEL METREYEON
BEAUMONT , TX

TONY BOREL
GROVES , TX

0.00

116

JAMES LEE
ORANGE , TX

ALSTON GILBERT
ORANGE , TX

0.00

116

CLAY DARDEAU
RAGLEY , LA

CRAIG BEAN
LAKE CHARLES , LA

0.00

116

JOHN BURTON
NEDERLAND , TX

ZACH HARGRODER
VIDOR , TX

0.00

116

TOBY JONES
STONEWALL , LA

CARL JONES
DAYTON , TX

0.00

116

JOHN BOWEN
HEMPHILL , TX

TOMMY WASHINGTON
MILAM , TX

0.00

116

JOEL MAYFIELD
PERKINSTON , MS

RYAN PATTERSON
PASCAGOULA , MS

0.00

116

KENNETH FRANKLIN JR
ETOILE , TX

RANDY LEWIS
LUFKIN , TX

0.00

116

BRADLEY HILLEBRANDT
FLORIEN , LA

JORDAN BREAUX
LAKE CHARLES , LA

0.00

116

VICTOR SEALS
CLEVELAND , TX

RONNIE USHER
SPLENDORA , TX

0.00

116

TOMMY WOODARD
CONROE , TX

DUNDE HARRIS
MAGNOLIA , TX

0.00

116

CHANCE ARCENEAUX
LAKE CHARLES , LA

DWIGHT ABSHIRE
SANTA FE , TX

0.00

116

STEVEN WALKER
BURTON , TX

CASSANDRA PRATT
BURTON , TX

0.00

116

ALEX STEWART
HEMPHILL , TX

RANDAL TUCKER
ALEXANDRIA , LA

0.00

116

MICHAEL RISINGER
WEST MONROE , LA

SONTUS MITCHELL
RUSTON , LA

0.00

116

JOSEPH DUHON
SULPHUR , LA

KENNETH CONSTANCE JR
LAKE CHARLES , LA

0.00

116

STEPHEN SHANNON
ARLINGTON , TX

JACOB SHANNON
ARLINGTON , TX

0.00

116

CHRIS WILEY
POLLOCK , LA

JOHN BURNLEY
STONEWALL , LA

0.00

116

BENJI DUMAS
MINDEN , LA

JIMMY DUCK III
CENTER , LA

0.00

116

DAMON BOREL
HEMPHILL , TX

0.00

116

JESSE JOHNSON
PORT NECHES , TX

COREY HARMON
ORANGE , TX

0.00

116

LARRY ODSTRCIL
SHEPHERD , TX

TED GEHRELS
PORTER , TX

0.00

116

DEAN WOOD
NEDERLAND , TX

PHIL ADDISON
BAYTOWN , TX

0.00

116

JIMMY LLOYD
LUMBERTON , TX

ANTHONY WAGUSPACK
LUMBERTON , TX

0.00

116

MATTHEW WRIGHT
BRIDGE CITY , TX

CAMERON MALLETT
BUNA , TX

0.00

116

RAYMOND CHEEK
WEST MONROE , LA

HUNTER FLUITT
MONROE , LA

0.00

116

RICHARD GILL
TEMPLE , TX

0.00

116

DONNIE MARTIN
JOAQUIN , TX

MATTHEW JONES
HUMBLE , TX

0.00

116

ERIC PLEDGER
TIMPSON , TX

STEVEN BURGAY
TIMPSON , TX

0.00

116

DERRIN RIDDICK
KINGWOOD , TX

JESSE SHERLOCK
NEW CANEY , TX

0.00

116

TIMOTHY LOUPE
HUFFMAN , TX

WILLIAM BRIGGINS
HUFFMAN , TX

0.00

116

BENJAMIN GULETT
CONVERSE , LA

DUSTIN RIVERS
NOBLE , LA

0.00

116

STEVE WRIGHT
PLANO , TX

MITCHELL FRIEDMAN
COLLEYVILLE , TX

0.00

116

SKYE BALL
MAGNOLIA , TX

KAY CLIFTON
MAGNOLIA , TX

0.00

116

ADAM DUNN
HOUSTON , TX

JASON DUNN
HOUSTON , TX

0.00

116

SKIP FLOYD
BROOKELAND , TX

ANTHONY FOUNTAIN
SHREVEPORT , LA

0.00

116

DEREK MUNDY
BROADDUS , TX

STEPHEN PHILLIPS
HUNTINGTON , TX

0.00

$500 Early Entry Bonus

116

AARON FREEMAN
MONTGOMERY , TX

KEVIN WALKER JR
BUNA , TX

0.00

116

JERRY HESTER
COUSHATTA , LA

MICHAEL BEDGOOD
COUSHATTA , LA

0.00

$500 Conservation Bonus

116

DEAN LEWIS
NATCHITOCHES , LA

JOHNNY COSTELLO
BOSSIER CITY , LA

0.00

116

LEE SHEARIN
BRIDGE CITY , TX

ANDREW DELANO
BUNA , TX

0.00

116

TAYLOR JAMES
PT NECHES , TX

BLAKE RAMBIN
GROVES , TX

0.00

116

RICKEY ELLIOTT
SPRING , TX

JOHNNY GRICE
ARP , TX

0.00

116

JOHN MADDOX
LUFKIN , TX

JEFFERY WISE
LUFKIN , TX

0.00

116

JACOB ROOT
BROOKELAND , TX

JOSHUA ROOT
BROOKELAND , TX

0.00

116

JOHN NEMECEK
FRIENDSWOOD , TX

BRADLEY PAGE
FRIENDSWOOD , TX

0.00

116

NEIL MATHEWS
HOCKLEY , TX

COLE STOREY
HOCKLEY , TX

0.00

116

LESLIE HARPER
HEMPHILL , TX

GARY FRICK
HEMPHILL , TX

0.00

116

BOBBY VICE
GROVES , TX

RICKY GUY
HUMBLE , TX

0.00

116

BOBBY LOGAN
COUSHATTA , LA

KENNY COBB
HODGE , LA

0.00

116

THOMAS LEWIS
JASPER , TX

DOUGLAS ROSS
JASPER , TX

0.00

116

TED PATE
ALEXANDRIA , LA

KEITH DELANEY
POLLOCK , LA

0.00

116

KRISTOPHER PICKETT
COUSHATTA , LA

CHRISTOPHER GORDON
CLARENCE , LA

0.00

116

JACOB JOHNSON
LAKE CHARLES , LA

SHANE CORMIER
RAGLEY , LA

0.00

116

RICHARD CHUMLEY
JOAQUIN , TX

MILES MCDANIEL
MILAM , TX

0.00

116

RYLON GANEY
PINEVILLE , LA

JARED GANEY
PINEVILLE , LA

0.00

116

RANDY QUINN
HUFFMAN , TX

DEAN COLEMAN
HUMBLE , TX

0.00

116

SAM HUCKABEE
SHREVEPORT , LA

TOBY JOHNSON
WASKOM , TX

0.00

116

LARRY PEACHER
BENTLEY , LA

MICHAEL BREWTON
NACOGDOCHES , TX

0.00

116

SKEETER FOWLER
GRAND SALINE , TX

BEN MATSUBU
MILAM , TX

0.00

116

LOUIS FERGUSON
WOODVILLE , TX

JJ MATZKE
LEAGUE CITY , TX

0.00

116

ROGER JOHNSON JR
VIDOR , TX

KIRK LELEUX
KIRBYVILLE , TX

0.00

116

CODY NIX
PLANO , TX

TRACY NIX
PLANO , TX

0.00

116

MICHAEL HETTICK
CORPUS CHRISTI , TX

MARK FILE
WRIGHT CITY , MO

0.00

116

JUSTIN DUBOSE
PARADISE , TX

JERRY MEECE
LUFKIN , TX

0.00

116

NATHAN BYRD
MIDLOTHIAN , TX

JOE BYRD
SPRING , TX

0.00

116

PAUL PROCTOR
BROOKELAND , TX

RANDY FOY
LUMBERTON , TX

0.00

116

LARRY DEAN
HUMBLE , TX

0.00

116

LANCE SCOTT
BROOKELAND , TX

KEVIN BOLTON
LUMBERTON , TX

0.00

116

DON DICKERSON
PINEVILLE , LA

JASON FOUNTAIN
PINEVILLE , LA

0.00

116

TERRY STEVENS
HUTTO , TX

JASON HARPER
MONTGOMERY , TX

0.00

116

NOLAN GASKIN
BROUSSARD , LA

CHAD MRAZEK
MONTOGOMERY , TX

0.00

116

KEN SMITH
RICHARDSON , TX

TERRY HAWKINS
CORSICANA , TX

0.00

116

JOHNNIE FRANKS
HEMPHILL , TX

CHET SLAYDON
DE RIDDER , LA

0.00

116

TONY COBURN
LAKE CHARLES , LA

RICKY TRAHAN
LAKE CHARLES , LA

0.00

116

ERIC WILSON
MARSHALL , TX

HOWARD WILSON
NACOGDOCHES , TX

0.00

116

YARRI SCHREIBVOGEL
BROOKLAND , TX

0.00

116

TIMOTHY MCCLURE
TROUP , TX

SAM FLYNN
NACOGDOCHES , TX

0.00

116

DANNY LASHLEY
BOYCE , LA

MICHAEL IVEY
OTIS , LA

0.00

116

CHRIS HUEBEL
NEDERLAND , TX

DON GOULD
MAURICEVILLE , TX

0.00

116

GERALD MITCHELL
JENA , LA

JASON LEBRUN
CHOUDRANT , LA

0.00

116

TRENT JAMES
ORANGE , TX

JOEL GUIDRY
LUMBERTON , TX

0.00

116

DANNY BENNETT
HUNTSVILLE , TX

MICHAEL BENNETT
LUCAS , TX

0.00

116

DUANE COLVIN
NEDERLAND , TX

ZACK LUCAS
BRTOOKELAND , TX

0.00

116

KEITH JONES
WHITE OAK , TX

CHRIS LEWIS
HALLSVILLE , TX

0.00

116

JERREL PRINGLE
HEMPHILL , TX

KEITH KEELE
NORTH TENAHA , TX

0.00

116

RICHARD WAGNON
JASPER , TX

0.00

116

MIKE STEGALL
PORT NECHES , TX

MICHAEL LAFLEUR
ORANGEFIELD , TX

0.00

116

MIKE TAYLOR
JASPER , TX

ROBERT RICKETTS
JASPER , TX

0.00

116

LEE BROWN
LEESVILLE , LA

IKE STEPHENS
SIMPSON , LA

0.00

116

RICKY MADOLE
MANY , LA

RONNIE MADOLE
SHREVEPORT , LA

0.00

116

JERRY MCKNIGHT
WELLS , TX

QUINTON MCKNIGHT
WELLS , TX

0.00

116

DOUG MORROW
HOUSTON , TX

KENNY CORLEY
HOUSTON , TX

0.00

116

TED ODELL
BUNA , TX

SHAWN BUTLER
ORANGE , TX

0.00

116

DAVID OZIO
TYLER , TX

AVERY GATTON
NEW SHARON , IA

0.00

116

PERRY HOOKS
DOUGLASS , TX

GREGG DRIVER
NACOGDOCHES , TX

0.00

116

DONNIE PICKARD
BRIDGE CITY , TX

ALAN ASHBY
ORANGE , TX

0.00

116

BRYAN CARETHERS
SILSBEE , TX

JUSTIN HOLMES
LUMBERTON , TX

0.00

116

MIKE LOTT
MONTGOMERY , TX

JIMMY ROZELLE JR
PORTER , TX

0.00

116

CLINT KIRBY
LUFKIN , TX

ANDREW KIRBY
LUFKIN , TX

0.00

116

MATTHEW BENEFIELD
HUFFMAN , TX

LARRY BENEFIELD
HUFFMAN , TX

0.00

116

LAMARCUS MCCRAY
HOUSTON , TX

JAMES ROZELL
NEW CANEY , TX

0.00

116

DOUG PERKINS
PORTER , TX

BRAD HENSLEY
CLEVELAND , TX

0.00

116

RICKY CRUZ
NATCHEZ , LA

WESLEY HOLT
OTIS , LA

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116

ANDREW FATERKOWSKI
MONTGOMERY , TX

BILLY DRIGGERS
HUNTSVILLE , TX

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116

CHRIS KING
BEAUMONT , TX

TROY KIRKLAND
DAYTON , TX

0.00

116

DAVE REDINGTON
WINNSBORO , TX

LEE SANDERS
HILLSBORO , TX

0.00

116

CLIFFORD MCCARTY
LONGVIEW , TX

RIKI PIKE
BROOKELAND , TX

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116

KENT GRAHAM
NACOGDOCHES , TX

MYLES MOORE
NACOGDOCHES , TX

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116

ROBERT HATCHETT
HOUSTON , TX

CHRIS BERRY
HOUSTON , TX

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116

DEREK MONG
MANY , LA

TAMMY MONG
MANY , LA

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116

DOUGLAS SCHYSM
LONGVILLE , LA

JACOB EBERT
OAKDALE , LA

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116

TOM WALLS
PORTER , TX

BRETT JOLLEY JR
KINGWOOD , TX

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116

DANIEL HICKMAN
HUNTINGTON , TX

DUSTIN ALEXANDER
HUNTINGTON , TX

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116

HAROLD ALLEN
SHELBYVILLE , TX

MATT LOETSCHER
MANY , LA

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116

ERIC SMITH
ERATH , LA

CHRIS TERRY
KILGORE , TX

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116

MICHAEL MCDONALD
IOWA , LA

JERE BICE
LAKE CHARLES , LA

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116

KENNETH CATES
ZAVALLA , TX

MARVIN SPIVEY
OAKHURST , TX

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116

PRUITT PERKINS
ORANGE , TX

DUSTIN GUNSTREAM
VIDOR , TX

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116

STEVE BROWN
DEER PARK , TX

DOUG BROWN
MONT BELVIEU , TX

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116

CHAD FRIEDMAN
FORT POLK SOUTH , LA

DEAN JOHNSON
FORT POLK SOUTH , LA

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116

SCOTTIE STINSON
MONTGOMERY , TX

JACK STINSON
MONTGOMERY , TX

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116

JORDAN FREDERICK
MAURICE , LA

GARRETT TUNKS
SULPHUR , LA

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116

SAM MCCOLLUM
CORSICANA , TX

PAUL MCCOLLUM
CORSICANA , TX

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116

ALEX CARLSON
LIBERTY , TX

JAMES CROUTHERS
LIBERTY , TX

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116

RONNIE CASTLEBURY
ELGIN , OK

JAKE CASTLEBURY
ELGIN , OK

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116

JOHNNY STEWART
GOLDONNA , LA

DANIEL CHANCE JR
CARTHAGE , TX

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116

DOUGLAS WROTEN
WILLIS , TX

RAYMOND PETERS
HUFFMAN , TX

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116

KIP PASSANT
LAKE CHARLES , LA

PAUL LUNDY
BROOKELAND , TX

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116

BRYAN TRAHAN
ORANGE , TX

JOHN HATTON
BUNA , TX

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by AnglersChannel

B.A.S.S. Nation 2021 Regional Championship Schedule Announced

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The 2021 TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation schedule features five opportunities for grass-roots anglers to battle some of the country’s best bass fisheries. Each regional championship will provide opportunities for everyday anglers to qualify for the TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Championship and a shot at one of three berths in the 2022 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk.

“As we’ve seen in the past with anglers like Paul Mueller and Brandon Palaniuk, who both won Elite Series events last year, the B.A.S.S. Nation can be the gateway to a stellar career in professional fishing,” said B.A.S.S. Nation Director Jon Stewart. “Once you reach the Nation Championship, you’re fishing for a chance to fish in the Bassmaster Classic, and we’re excited this year to offer even more chances for anglers to do that.

“We’ve put together a great, really unique schedule.”

The schedule will kick off with the Western Regional at Lake Havasu in Havasu, Ariz., Feb. 3-5. This Western fishery, which offers a combination of crystal-clear waters and stark desert beauty, ranked No. 17 on Bassmaster Magazine’s list of the Best Bass Lakes of the Decade.

During April, Nation anglers will take on the largest lake in Kansas during the Central Regional at Milford Lake in Junction City, Kan., April 21-23, just before the Southeast Regional heads to Lake Hartwell in Anderson, S.C., April 28-30. Hartwell has hosted three Bassmaster Classics and six major B.A.S.S. events.

The schedule will swing to the upper region of the United States with the Northeast Regional at Lake Erie/Presque Isle Bay in Erie, Pa., June 23-25. This smallmouth mecca ranked No. 3 on the Best Bass Lakes of the Decade list.

“We are thrilled that Bassmaster has chosen to host its 2021 B.A.S.S. Nation Northeast Regional Championship in Erie,” said Mark Jeanneret, Executive Director of the Erie Sports Commission. “The Erie region offers world-class bass fishing on Lake Erie and Presque Isle Bay, as well as the accommodations and attractions that will make the tournament memorable for participants and their families. We are eager to welcome a full field of anglers to experience all that our community has to offer while competing in this prestigious event.”

The final regular-season event, the Northern Regional, will be held on the Upper Mississippi River out of La Crosse, Wis., Sept. 1-3.

“The B.A.S.S. Nation means so much to so many different people,” said B.A.S.S. CEO Bruce Akin. “Of course, for those anglers who aspire to fish professionally, it can certainly be a great stepping stone. For weekend anglers, it is a chance to compete for big money on a big stage. Beyond these Regional Championship events, there is such great camaraderie among B.A.S.S. Nation clubs at their local tournaments and youth events.”

The date and location for the 2021 B.A.S.S. Nation Championship will be released at a later date. The Championship tournament will be made up of qualifiers from all five regions, and the Top 3 anglers from the overall standings will earn a berth to the 2022 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk.

The winner of the 2021 B.A.S.S. Nation Championship will also receive a cash prize, an invitation to join the 2022 Bassmaster Elite Series and use of a “Nation’s Best” wrapped, tournament-ready boat.

2021 TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Schedule

Western Regional: Feb. 3-5, Lake Havasu, Havasu, Ariz.
Central Regional: April 21-23, Milford Lake, Junction City, Kan.
Southeast Regional: April 28-30, Lake Hartwell, Anderson, S.C.
Northeast Regional: June 23-25, Lake Erie/Presque Isle Bay, Erie, Pa.
Northern Regional: Sept. 1-3, Upper Mississippi River, La Crosse, Wis.

by AnglersChannel

Logan Johnson and Jeremy Christian win the Inaugural Alabama Bass Trail 100

By Jason Duran

Photos by Chris Brown

January 10- Columbiana, AL- 100 Teams launched at Beeswax Park for the first of three events in the brand-new Alabama Bass Trail 100 series. The ABT 100 series features 100 teams, 100 percent payback and $100,000 total payout in each event. Logan Johnson and Jeremy Christian claimed the first-place title and took home the hardware and $25,000.

Logan and Jeremy started the morning in an area they found in practice and felt would produce because of the large amount of shad active in the area. They soon realized it wasn’t the winning spot and quickly moved to their second area located in Spring Creek. Logan said, “it was a very large area, and in practice, we found it also was holding a lot of shad.” They spent the rest of the day on the trolling motor in this area.

Logan caught the big fish of the tournament, a 5.01 spot, near a dock. He was surprised to catch a spot in that area saying, “it was completely random. I caught it on the second cast in a transition area between docks.” During practice he fished near the area and decided to give the bank a try. The area was loaded with shad, and he shook off three fish during practice, so he decided it would be a good place to try on Saturday and expand on. Jeremy said, “when Logan caught that big fish, it really helped us settle down on a very frustrating morning.”

Logan noted, “I didn’t really know what was holding the fish in this area other than the shad. The area was shallow with grass mixed in.” They worked the area over because they felt the fish were there. Jeremy said, “we stuck with this pattern also because we didn’t really have anything else and knew we would just have to grind it out.” After practice they felt it would take around 19 pounds to win. They ended up with catching six fish all day long, but they were the right fish for a total of 18.70 with four largemouth and a 5.01 spotted bass.

Logan said he and Jeremy talked all week how cool it would be to win the very first ABT 100. He said they “have won an ABT event before, but winning this one is kind of surreal.” They are not only the first ABT 100 winners; they also hold the record for the largest bass ever caught in an ABT with 10.36 at Lake Guntersville. Today they proved they are a solid team and stand tall against the best of the best in the ABT 100.

The second-place team of Gerald Swindle and Ryan Anaya made the long run north to the dam. Ryan said, “it was a long, cold run, and we went as far as we could go.” “Them boys don’t want to go where we go,” said Gerald. They spent eight hours fishing a drift pattern. They would drive up to the dam and drift back with the current for about a mile just fishing and talking. Gerald said, “you have to be so patient; you can’t call your shot and say throw right there. You go up there and just drift backwards for hours. We would get on a run where we caught a couple, and then it would be hours before we caught another one.” He said, “it’s a style of fishing that messes most people up because it’s so boring and seems so random, but we know if two people do it for 7-8 hours a day, they’re going to get 7-8 bites and have 17-18 pounds.” They were right as they weighed in 17.06 pounds.

In addition to their $12,500 second place money, they also took home a $500 Garmin bonus. They used Garmin Live Scope to help them find places where the bank and other structure caused the current to speed up. There they would cast their bait and come by those areas saying they could see the fish come up and go after their bait.

Their key bait was a ½ oz black and blue Boss flipping jig with a Zoom big salty chunk. They said, “it is a big bait and it looked like we were tarpon fishing.” Gerald said, “you can go up there, throw a little jig and probably get a lot more bites, but you won’t catch any of the quality 4-pound bites.”

Ryan is recovering from a very difficult battle with COVID-19. He spent 7 days in the ICU and weeks on oxygen recovering at home. He just started back fishing and said, “today was a fun day but at times, I still got a little winded.” Gerald said, “it’s awesome being able to come back and fish this format with the guys I grew up fishing with. These are my boys and it brings back the fun of fishing to see everybody.”

Third place went to Paul Davis Josh Chapple, also long-time fishermen on the ABT, having fished the ABT North and the ABT South in previous years. Josh said, “the morning started out slow. We began early throwing a jerkbait in chartreuse and a red Rapala Shad Rap. We hit a couple spots using that pattern and decided to make an adjustment.

They said they have some “good history on this lake and went with the idea of knowing where to be this time of year.” Saturday the current didn’t really play a factor for teams on the south end of the lake. Paul and Josh said they have fished here enough to “know not to base their tournament on the current.” After making a couple adjustments and a location change, Paul caught a 4.35 and followed right up with a 3.5 about 9:00. After that quick flurry of fish catches, they thought they had figured them out. However, Josh said then “the fishing got really, really slow, so we made another adjustment and moved around a little more. We spent some time flipping to finish out our limit.” They spent most of their time fishing the “narrows” fishing primarily in the creeks off the river. With a total of 16.37 they secured third place and a $10,000 pay day. They echoed what many teams keep saying, “we are just looking forward to Eufaula.”

The second stop of the Alabama Bass Trail 100 will be on Lake Eufaula, “The Bass Fishing Capital of the World,” Saturday, June 5, where once again 100 teams will go for the $100,000 total payout.

Top five standings are below for a complete list see https://www.alabamabasstrail100.org/lay-lake-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. This week podcast will feature winners

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- Bush, Inc., fishalabama.org and American Baitworks.

For information about Alabama Bass Trail 100 visit www.alabamabasstrail100.org

by AnglersChannel

Schedule Announced For 2021 B.A.S.S. Nation Kayak Series

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — After a wildly successful inaugural campaign in 2020, B.A.S.S. officials were excited Friday to announce the regular-season schedule for the 2021 Bassmaster B.A.S.S. Nation Kayak Series powered by TourneyX.

The trail, which averaged 144 anglers per event during its inaugural season in 2020, will visit five lakes in five different states before culminating with the B.A.S.S. Nation Kayak Series Championship, which will be held in conjunction with the 2022 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk at a site to be determined.

The field of anglers who qualified for the National Championship during the 2020 season will compete in a rescheduled two-day event June 9-10 held in conjunction with the Bassmaster Classic in Fort Worth, Texas. Additional information on that tournament will be released at a later date.

“Despite facing a lot of challenges, we had a great first season for the B.A.S.S. Nation Kayak Series in 2020,” said B.A.S.S. Nation Director Jon Stewart. “We knew the popularity of kayak fishing had exploded; that was the reason behind starting the trail. But I’m not sure we realized just how incredibly popular the sport was until we held a few events and saw how many hardcore kayak enthusiasts showed up.

“That has us really excited about this upcoming season.”

The season’s first event will be held on one of the country’s premier big-bass factories, Lake Fork in Alba, Texas, on March 13. Fork was the site of an Elite Series event in 2020, and champion Patrick Walters blew the field away with a four-day November catch of 104 pounds, 12 ounces. Walters wasn’t the only angler to clear the century mark at a Bassmaster event on Fork last year. When the Kayak Series stopped on this fishery last March, Arkansas angler Cody Milton bested the field with a five-bass limit measuring 100 1/2 inches. That propensity for producing giant bass is why Lake Fork ranked 16th on Bassmaster Magazine’s Best Bass Lakes of the Decade in 2020.

Event No. 2 is scheduled for May 1 on world-famous Lake Eufaula in Eufaula, Ala. Like Fork, the lake hosted an Elite Series event last year that was broadcast live to an audience of more than 2.8 million, and as a result, the buzz surrounding the fishery has never been louder.

From Alabama, the trail will shift to Pickwick Lake in Counce, Tenn., for a July 24 event that will see anglers fishing for a mixed bag of largemouth and smallmouth. In addition to the Kayak Series event, the popular Tennessee River fishery, which ranked 13th on the list of Best Bass Lakes of the Decade, is scheduled to host an Elite Series event and a Basspro.com Bassmaster Central Open in 2021.

As summertime tightens its grip across the country, the Kayak Series will visit the Upper Chesapeake in Cecil County, Md., on Aug. 7. The scorching summer conditions and tidal fluctuations will present a challenge like no other on the 2021 schedule, but it will also showcase the value of kayak fishing as anglers are able to access creeks and drainages that are unavailable to larger crafts.

As we move from summer to fall, the Kayak Series will finish its regular season Sept. 25 on the Upper Mississippi River in La Crosse, Wis. The fishery has been a regular stop for B.A.S.S. and its major tournaments in recent years, hosting a Central Open in 2019 and Elite Series events in 2016 and 2018. The Kayak Series also stopped on the Mississippi during their first season, with South Carolina’s Barry Davis claiming the win with five fish measuring 88 inches.

“We try to provide a good mix with all of our tournament schedules, and we believe we’ve done that with the 2021 B.A.S.S. Nation Kayak Series slate,” said B.A.S.S. CEO Bruce Akin. “From the Alabama/Georgia state line to Texas and back across the country to Maryland and then to the Mississippi River, this trail offers a little bit of everything for avid kayak anglers.”

Instead of a standard weigh-in that requires scales measuring pounds and ounces, anglers will practice “catch, photograph and release” to determine the kayak tournament standings.

When an angler catches a bass, he or she will photograph it lying on an approved measuring board and submit the photo through a special mobile app provided by TourneyX. The boards will measure each bass in inches down to a quarter of an inch, and the angler with the longest five-bass limit will win.

“We established some records during our first season, and we’re looking forward to building on the things we did in Year One to see some of those records challenged and broken during our second season,” Stewart said.

Entry fees for all five regular-season events will be $250, and each will pay 30 places. Based on a full field of 150 kayaks, the total purse for each event will be $30,000. Registration will begin online Jan. 11 at Bassmaster.com.

2021 Bassmaster B.A.S.S. Nation Kayak Series powered by TourneyX regular-season schedule

March 13, Lake Fork, Alba, Texas
May 1, Lake Eufaula, Eufaula, Ala.
July 24, Pickwick Lake, Counce, Tenn.
Aug. 7, Upper Chesapeake, Cecil County, Md.
Sept. 25, Upper Mississippi River, La Crosse, Wis.

by AnglersChannel

Bassmaster Classic And Outdoors Expo Moved To June 2021

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Due to the ongoing public health emergency and associated limits on large gatherings, B.A.S.S. officials announced today that the Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk and Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo originally scheduled for late March would be moved to June 11-13, 2021.

“It’s our hope that this delay will allow us to alleviate many of the challenges — including any potential capacity restrictions and travel complications — related to hosting both the tournament and Outdoors Expo in the current pandemic environment,” said B.A.S.S. CEO Bruce Akin. “We look forward to seeing thousands of fans, along with our partners and industry friends, at the 51st Bassmaster Classic.

“Our team will be working with the Fort Worth Sports Commission and Visit Fort Worth to make this historic trip to Texas an incredible and memorable event.”

B.A.S.S. Chairman Chase Anderson emphasized the importance of cooperation with the city of Fort Worth. “We are so appreciative of Fort Worth officials and our hosts at Visit Fort Worth for working with us during these unprecedented times to reschedule this exciting event and ensure we have an outstanding Classic.”

For more than 50 years, the iconic Bassmaster Classic has been the premier tournament in sportfishing. Recent Classics held in Birmingham, Ala., and Knoxville, Tenn., have drawn record-breaking crowds of 122,814 and 153,809 fans respectively to Classic Week events, including the Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo.

At least 12 new products were launched during the 2020 Outdoors Expo, which is recognized as fishing’s biggest consumer show and annually draws 200 exhibitors ranging from major international brands to local retailers.

“Hosting the Bassmaster Classic later this spring will bring jobs and much-needed business to our local economy,” said Jason Sands, Director of the Fort Worth Sports Commission. “We are looking forward to hosting anglers and the thousands of outdoor enthusiasts and Bassmaster fans this world-class sporting event attracts.”

The success of the Expo is a major contributing factor to the Classic’s overall economic impact which generated a windfall of $35.9 million according to 2020 host community Birmingham, Ala.

The move from an early spring tournament to June is a throwback to previous events. From its inaugural outing in 1971 until 1983, the Bassmaster Classic was held in the fall. The Super Bowl of Bass Fishing became a summer event in 1984 but shifted to February and March in 2006, the first season of the Bassmaster Elite Series.

The Bassmaster Elite at Pickwick Lake, which was originally scheduled for June 10-13, will instead be held on the Florence, Ala., fishery March 18-21.

For more information, visit Bassmaster.com.

by AnglersChannel

AC Insider Podcast - The 40-Pound clubs newest member

This week Chris & the boys kick off the yer right with Rayburn BFL Winner Derek Mundy who dropped a 40-pound 10-ounce bag on the scales last Saturday to win the 2021 BFL opener on Rayburn putting him in an elite club. Kenneth shares some news and we catch up on what Santa brought the boys for Christmas!

by AnglersChannel

Academy Sports + Outdoors Joins Major League Fishing Sponsor Roster

TULSA, Okla. (Jan. 5, 2021) – Major League Fishing (MLF), the world’s premier tournament-fishing organization, announced today Academy Sports + Outdoors as the latest sponsor of the 2021 MLF Cup events, including title sponsorship of the 2021 Heritage Cup. As the No. 1 rated television program on the Outdoor Channel for the last five years, the MLF Cups offer Academy an extensive reach to an invested fishing audience. With 259 stores across the south and southeast United States, Academy’s retail footprint aligns with some of the top fisheries in the nation, making its investment with Major League Fishing a natural fit.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Academy to the MLF family of sponsors,” said Jim Wilburn, MLF President and CEO. “Sponsorship of the MLF Cups aligns the Academy brand with the strongest fishing audience in television, including logo placement on boats and angler jerseys throughout the season.”

“Academy Sports + Outdoors takes pride in finding new ways to increase participation in fishing and connecting anglers of all experience levels to our wide assortment of on-the-water products,” said Larry Roberts, Academy Sports + Outdoor senior vice president and general merchandising manager of outdoor. “By teaming up with MLF, we will be able to reach core customers across the country and help people make fun memories together.”

Academy has sponsored MLF pro Jacob Wheeler since 2015. Wheeler, the number one angler in the world as ranked by industry publication BassFan, will compete in three 2021 Cup events - the Lucas Oil Challenge Cup, the Academy Sports + Outdoors Heritage Cup, and the Patriot Cup.

“Academy has been a big supporter of mine for several years and they continue to invest in the outdoors, especially bass fishing,” said Wheeler. “Having them support the league that I fish means a lot; knowing how invested they are in the sport right now is a big deal.”

For more information about MLF, their tournaments and sponsors, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. To learn more about Academy Sports + Outdoors, visit Academy.com.

by AnglersChannel

Broaddus’ Mundy Smashes at 2021 Season Kickoff of Phoenix Bass Fishing League on Sam Rayburn

Mundy Weighs in Fourth-Largest Five-Fish Limit in MLF History, Mississippi’s Petras Wins Co-angler Division

BROOKELAND, Texas (Jan. 4, 2021) – Derek Mundy of Broaddus, Texas, brought a five-bass limit to the scale Saturday weighing a staggering 40 pounds, 10 ounces to win the 2021 Phoenix Bass Fishing League presented by T-H Marine season opener at Sam Rayburn Reservoir in Brookeland, Texas. Mundy earned $7,000 for his victory.

Mundy said he found his fish in practice but didn’t realize just how good his spot was going to be.

“You can’t look on the graph and see 40 pounds, but I knew I could have a good bag if they bit,” Mundy said. “It’s not guaranteed you’re going to roll up to your first spot and catch 30, much less 40.

“I caught the first four on a big crankbait and they busted up a bit,” Mundy said. “Then I pulled out a jig and caught the last one. I caught those five, all on the first stop, in about 20 minutes.”

Fishing a Strike King 8XD and a ¾-ounce V&M The Flatline Pacemaker Football Jig, Mundy said he did all of his damage in about 17 feet of water, in the mid-lake region.

After catching five giants, including a 11-pound, 10-ounce largemouth, Mundy said he felt he could relax.

“I took it easy and went to some Plan B stuff to try to get my co-angler on fish, but it never worked out – the wind got up pretty bad in the afternoon,” he admitted.

Weighing his fish as soon as he was allowed, Mundy said he was content to wait for the weigh-in to conclude before collecting his check.

“It’s the biggest bag I’ve ever caught,” said Mundy, who makes his living working on oil pipelines. “It felt good. I didn’t realize they were that big until I was checking on them to make sure they were doing alright in the livewell, but even then, I didn’t realize I had 40 pounds.”

The top 10 boaters finished the tournament as follows:

1st: Derek Mundy of Broaddus, Texas, five bass, 40-10, $7,000
2nd: Cameron Mattison of Bossier City, La., five bass, 28-6, $3,000
3rd: Tommy Loving of Cypress, Texas, five bass, 22-14, $2,000
4th: Wyatt Frankens of Corrigan, Texas, five bass, 17-11, $1,400
5th: Jimmy Hickman of Shreveport, La., five bass, 17-8, $1,200
6th: Cannon Bird of Marshall, Texas, five bass, 16–6, $1,100
7th: Chris McCall of Woodville, Texas, five bass, 15-15, $1,000
8th: Richard Ballard of Sulphur, La., five bass, 15-12, $1,400
9th: Dicky Newberry of Houston, Texas, five bass, 15-0, $800
10th: Bobby Vice of Orange, Texas, five bass, 14-11, $665
10th: Travis Franks of Lake Charles, La., five bass, 14–11, $665

Mundy’s 11-pound, 10-ounce largemouth was also good for the day’s Boater Big Bass award of $1,000.

Ballard took home an extra $500 as the highest finishing Phoenix MLF BIG5 Contingency 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 BIG5 Bonus contingency program can be found at PhoenixBassBoats.com.

Michael Petras of Biloxi, Mississippi, won the Co-angler Division and $3,000 Saturday after catching a five-bass limit weighing 16 pounds even.

The top 10 co-anglers finished as follows:

1st: Michael Petras of Biloxi, Miss., five bass, 16-0, $3,000
2nd: Shane Stoddard of Hot Springs, Ark., four bass, 15-4, $2,000
3rd: Michael Horne of Dodson, La., five bass, 14-10, $1,000
4th: Carson Dillinger of Bloomburg, Texas, five bass, 12-70
5th: Tracy Hawkins of Corsicana, Texas, three bass, 11-15, $600
6th: Julio Garza of Houston, Texas, five bass, 11-5, $550
7th: Steve Lee of Benton, Ark., five bass, 11-2, $500
8th: Daniel Bryant of LaFayette, La., five bass, 10-10, $450
9th: Ryker Holmes of Arlington, Texas, five bass, 10-7, $400
10th: John Webb of Fort Smith, Ark., four bass, 10-4, $332
10th: Greg Boik of College Station, Texas, five bass, 10-4, $332

Stoddard caught the largest bass in the Co-angler Division, a fish weighing in at 9 pounds, 15 ounces. The catch earned him the day’s Co-angler Big Bass award of $500.

The 2021 Phoenix Bass Fishing League presented by T-H Marine on Sam Rayburn Reservoir was hosted by the Jasper County Development District.

The top 45 boaters and co-anglers in the Cowboy Division based on point standings, along with the five winners of each qualifying event, will be entered in the Oct. 21-23 Phoenix Bass Fishing League Regional Championship on Lake Ouachita in Mount Ida, Arkansas hosted by Visit Hot Springs. Boaters will compete for a $60,000 prize package, including a new Phoenix 819 Pro bass boat with a 200-horsepower Mercury outboard and $10,000, while co-anglers will fish for a new Phoenix 819 Pro bass boat with a 200-horsepower Mercury s outboard.

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 FLW’s social media outlets at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

by AnglersChannel

X Zone Lures Signs Bassmaster Elite Series Pro; Carl Jocumsen

X Zone Lures is pleased to announce that they have added Carl Jocumsen to their pro staff. Starting in January of 2021 Carl Jocumsen will represent X Zone Lures and become a major contributor to bait design and promotion for the premium bait brand.

Carl Jocumsen says ''One of the very first Smallmouth baits introduced to me in the US was the original Slammer back in 2011, it fast became my confidence dropshot bait since that day. To now be apart of the X-Zone team is super exciting for us as their unique, innovative designs are right on my style. Looking forward to fishing with the entire range, working on new baits and having our best year yet in 2021''

Carl joins fellow X Zone pro staffer – Elite Series Pro, Brandon Palaniuk.

“X Zone Lures is very excited to have Carl on our team” says X Zone Lures owner, Jim Van Ryn. “Carl is one of the most versatile pro anglers today. His great personality, excellent fishing skills and his ability to win on all levels is a credit to him as an angler and to our team. We couldn’t be happier to have him with us.”

For more about X Zone Lures, visit their site at www.xzonelures.com

by AnglersChannel

Mark Zona Joins Team Lew’s

Photo courtesy of Rather Outdoors

Lexington, S.C. – January 4, 2021 – For more than a decade Mark Zona has been one of the most recognizable and respected names in the fishing world, widely known for his efforts as a color commentator on The Bassmaster Elite Series and Bassmaster Classic and his own Zona’s Awesome Fishing Show.

Beginning in 2021, Zona will be representing Lew’s rods and reels. Already a member of the Rather Outdoors family with his long-standing relationship with Strike King, Zona will join a promotional staff that boasts some of the most accomplished names on the water, bringing his own unique flair and list of accomplishments to the team.

“I honestly look at Strike King and Lew’s as one company—a family in a sense,” he said. “I’ve been with Strike King since the day I started TV and joining the Lew’s team just made the most sense for my business and for me personally.”

For the Rather Outdoors team, the opportunity to welcome Zona to the Lew’s team is a great honor. Ken Eubanks, Rather Outdoors’ CEO said “nurturing the relationships that have been entrusted to us by so many that shaped our brands is what makes this announcement so special. We are truly honored to have Mark extend his trust and reputation deeper into our family, honoring the past yet building toward a new future. We are committed to ensuring Mark’s place in our company is one that anglers will have the opportunity to benefit from for years to come and are truly grateful for Mark affording us this opportunity.

For his part, Zona finds a great deal to look forward to. “Outside of making video content to entertain and help people catch more fish, my passion in fishing is working on rods and reels,” he said. “I look forward to being a part of a brand that is known for premier quality and I truly look forward to being hands on with the entire team at Lew’s”

by AnglersChannel

FS1 To Air Best Of Bassmaster Beginning January 3

Photo by B.A.S.S.

December 31, 2020

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Fishing fans will be able to spend their Sunday mornings with the world’s best anglers beginning Jan. 3 when FS1 begins airing highlight shows from the Bassmaster Elite Series and 2020 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk. The shows are the ideal opportunity to meet the Elites and learn more about the sport in the run-up to the first tournament and live broadcasts of the 2021 season.

For the first time in history, all nine 2021 Elite events, as well as the Bassmaster Classic, will feature live television coverage on the FOX Sports platforms beginning with the AFTCO Bassmaster Elite Feb. 11-14 on Florida’s famed St. Johns River.

Upcoming episodes will feature highlights of the 2019 and 2020 seasons and be the first time they are aired for the FS1 audience. Among the moments viewers can relive — or experience for the first time — are legendary angler Rick Clunn’s victory on the St. Johns River punctuated by five bass that weighed 34-14 on Championship Sunday and Hank Cherry’s wire-to-wire Bassmaster Classic championship run. Plus, two episodes of Elite Winning Ways focus on the techniques and lures used by 2019 Elite Series champions.

Date
Time (ET)
Event

Jan. 3
9 a.m.
Elite Winning Ways 2019 – Stetson Blaylock and Brandon Cobb

Jan. 3
10 a.m.
Elite Winning Ways 2019 – Jamie Hartman, Micah Frazier and Carl Jocumsen

Jan. 10
10 a.m.
Bassmaster Elite at Lake Hartwell 2019

Jan. 10
11 a.m.
Bassmaster Elite at Lake Guntersville 2020

Jan. 17
10 a.m.
Bassmaster Elite at Santee Cooper Lakes 2020

Jan. 17
11 a.m.
Bassmaster Elite at Cayuga Lake 2019

Jan. 24
10 a.m.
Bassmaster Elite at Lake Eufaula 2020

Jan. 24
11 a.m.
Bassmaster Elite at Lake Tenkiller 2019

Jan. 31
10 a.m.
Bassmaster Elite at Lake Fork 2019

Jan. 31
11 a.m.
Bassmaster Elite at St. Johns River 2019

Feb. 7
8 a.m.
2020 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk

All times are subject to change. Please check your local listings for broadcast times. For a complete television schedule, visit Bassmaster.com/tv-schedule.

by AnglersChannel

2021 Bassmaster High School Schedule Features Iconic Fisheries

December 30, 2020

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Today, B.A.S.S. officials unveiled the Mossy Oak Fishing Bassmaster High School Series presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors 2021 schedule, which will give young anglers an opportunity to compete on the same waters that have hosted sportfishing’s premier tournaments.

The Bassmaster High School Series will include four regular-season events. The one-day tournaments will be Feb. 27 on Harris Chain of Lakes, May 2 on Lake Cumberland and June 26 on Lay Lake, site of four Bassmaster Classics. A June 12th event will also be held on a northern fishery to be announced soon.

“We’re really pleased with this schedule,” said Hank Weldon, Tournament Director for B.A.S.S.’s High School and Junior Series. “2021 will not only feature the familiar waters of Lake Cumberland but also fisheries like Lay Lake and Harris Chain that have historically hosted major events. It is fun for both the anglers and their families to explore some of the country’s best bass lakes and the communities that surround them.”

Due to the soaring popularity of the trails, the field size will again be capped at 250 boats for high school. Each high school event will also include a field of up to 50 boats for competitors ranging from second to eighth grade as part of the Mossy Oak Fishing Bassmaster Junior Series.

“When you consider that we’ve had to cap the field size to keep the tournaments from being too big, that tells you all you need to know about the popularity of fishing at the high school level and even among younger anglers,” said Weldon.

When the High School Series kicks off on Harris Chain in February, it will be the first time the trail has visited the fishery, which has hosted 17 major B.A.S.S. tournaments and saw a record-breaking three-day weight set by the Bryan College duo of Cole Sands and Conner Dimauro in the 2020 Carhartt Bassmaster College National Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops.

“We are thrilled to welcome the next generation of anglers to the Harris Chain of Lakes, a top fishing destination for anglers from across the nation,” said Lake County Chairman Sean Parks. “The event helps to promote the sport of bass fishing while highlighting the natural resources and charm of Lake County.”

The date and location for the High School and Junior Championships will also be announced at a later time.

B.A.S.S. highlighted the growth of the sport and the talent of high school anglers in unprecedented fashion in 2020 when back-to-back High School National Champions Grayson Morris and Tucker Smith, of Alabama’s Briarwood Christian School, became the first high school anglers to fish alongside the pros at the iconic Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk last March. Smith added an incredible third National Championship title to his resume in 2020. Both Smith and Morris are now competing on the Bassmaster College Series.

Online registration for the High School and Junior Series will open Jan. 12. For more information, visit Bassmaster.com.

2021 Mossy Oak Fishing Bassmaster High School Series presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors

Feb. 27, Harris Chain of Lakes, Leesburg, Fla.
May 2, Lake Cumberland, Russell County, Ky.
June 12, TBD
June 26, Lay Lake, Shelby County, Ala.

by AnglersChannel

Bassmaster Elite Pros Auction Jerseys For St. Jude

Bassmaster Elite Series pros Clark Wendlandt, Garrett Paquette, Matt Herren and Buddy Gross are among the anglers who have donated signed tournament jerseys as part of a fundraiser benefiting St. Jude.

December 29, 2020

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Enthusiastic bass fishing fans still have time to bid on autographed jerseys from Bassmaster Elite Series pros while helping to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 2020 Bassmaster Angler of the Year Clark Wendlandt, Elite Series Champion Buddy Gross, Garrett Paquette and Matt Herren are among the anglers who have donated signed tournament jerseys that are being auctioned off on eBay, with all of the proceeds benefiting St. Jude. In 2019, fellow Elite Series angler Seth Feider’s signed jersey pulled-in more than $1,000.

“This is not only the jersey I wore my Rookie season in the Bassmaster Elites but it’s the same jersey I wore when winning at Lake Eufaula,” said Gross of the jersey fans can bid on beginning December 30. “We hope it brings a fan as much joy as it has my family!”

The jersey auction is part of the fundraising efforts for the Dick Hiley St. Jude Bass Classic, held annually in Minnesota. Now in its 23rd year, this tournament has raised more than $4.1 million for the kids of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. All proceeds from this event will benefit St. Jude, where families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing or food.

For veteran angler Herren, participating in the annual fundraiser was an important way to support children and parents. “As the father of two sons, I couldn’t imagine the pain and fear of what a child and their parents go through when they are faced with fighting cancer or other diseases. I hope by donating a jersey or contributing in other ways throughout the year that it can somehow help St. Jude to work miracles.”

Angler Glenn Walker is part of the tournament’s organizing committee, and started the auction seven years ago as part of his personal fundraising efforts for the event. Last year, Walker and his team raised over $13,000.

“As a tournament angler, I already knew several pros and crossed paths with others who wanted to support the tournament and St. Jude,” said Walker. “With the support of these great guys, every year more anglers from the various pro circuits want to contribute.”

Other Bassmaster Elite Series anglers who have donated items for this on-going auction include 2020 Elite Series champions Chris Johnston and Patrick Walters as well as Bill Lowen, Carl Jocumsen, Chad Morgenthaler, Chad Pipkens, Chris Groh, Cory Johnston, Jeff Gustafson, Jason Williamson, Keith Combs and Feider.

“Glenn does a great job at being very proactive and seeking out jerseys from many of the pros to help this cause,” said Paquette. “St. Jude does so many great things for children and gives kids a fighting chance they may not get elsewhere, so it was important to personally help the cause. Growing up, our schools were very active in raising funds for donation, and it's neat to see this continued in professional fishing.”

Bidding on Paquette’s jersey ends December 30, while the auction runs until Jan. 2 for Wendlandt’s tournament jersey. The jersey Gross wore while mounting his come-from-behind victory at the 2020 Bassmaster Elite at Lake Eufaula will be on auction Dec. 30-Jan. 6, and bidding on Herren’s jersey runs Jan. 2-9.

Interested anglers can learn more about the Dick Hiley St. Jude Bass Classic and register for the tournament, being held April 30-May 2, 2021, by visiting Fundraising.stjude.org/dickhileybassclassic.

by AnglersChannel

Bassmaster College Series 2021 Regular-Season Stops Announced

December 28, 2020

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Talented teams from across the country can officially start marking their calendars after B.A.S.S. officials announced the 2021 schedule and a format change for the Carhartt Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops today.

The circuit will include four regular-season events, plus a Wild Card tournament and season-ending National Championship. Each two-angler team will not only be vying for Bassmaster College Series Team of the Year honors, but one skilled angler will advance from the College Classic Bracket with a berth to the 2022 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk.

“There are thousands of young anglers who are hungry to compete — and as we’ve seen with so many former college anglers now competing at the highest levels of bass fishing, it’s changing the sport from top to bottom, ” said Hank Weldon, Tournament Director for B.A.S.S.’s College Series. “The 2021 season offers these college teams an opportunity to test their skills on a variety of fisheries.”

Based on feedback from coaches and anglers, for 2021 all regular-season tournaments will be two-day events with the full field fishing both days. The National Championship will still be a three-day tournament.

The Bassmaster College Series will begin March 5-6 on Lake Norman in Cornelius, N.C. It will then include two more springtime events on Lewis Smith Lake in Cullman, Ala., Apr. 16-17 and Lake Cumberland in Russell County, Ky., Apr. 30-May 1. The trail’s final stop June 9-10 will be held on a Northern fishery, but the exact location will not be announced until a later date.

The leading anglers in the Bassmaster College Series Team of the Year points standings will be determined after those four events. The Team of the Year will punch their ticket to the College Classic Bracket event, which will be held in September.

Due to overwhelming interest in the series, B.A.S.S. will once more cap the field size at 250 boats. Those teams who register but remain on the waitlist for the four regular-season events will enjoy an opportunity to qualify for the National Championship via the Wild Card tournament June 23-24 on Alabama’s Lay Lake.

“The Bassmaster College Series has always been about giving young anglers a chance to compete,” said Weldon. “While we want to limit field size at events, it was important that we not limit the opportunity for these teams. The Wild Card event is a great way to ensure any team that couldn’t compete previously still has a shot at fishing for a national title.”

More information on the July Bassmaster College National Championship and September College Classic Bracket event will be released in 2021.

Registration for the College Series will open January 19. For more information, visit Bassmaster.com.

2021 Carhartt Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops

March 5-6, Lake Norman, Cornelius, N.C.
Apr. 16-17, Lewis Smith Lake, Cullman, Ala.
Apr. 30-May 1, Lake Cumberland, Russell County, Ky.
June 9-10, TBA

June 23-24, Wild Card Tournament, Lay Lake, Shelby County, Ala.

by AnglersChannel

AC Insider Podcast Video Interview with Mike Iaconelli

On this special video edition of the the final episode of 2020, Chris and the boys welcome in the one and only Mike Iaconnelli to the talk about his 2021 plans, the "Crew" back in the day and so much more! If you listen to one episode this year, its gotta be this one. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year to everyone!!!

by AnglersChannel

MLF Announces 2021 Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit presented by Bad Boy Mowers Roster

Legendary Pro Larry Nixon Returns to Join 20 MLF Bass Pro Tour Anglers, Numerous FLW Cup and AOY Winners to Compete for $6.5 million over 2021 Season

BENTON, Ky. (Dec. 23, 2020) – Major League Fishing (MLF) announced today the roster for the 2021 MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit presented by Bad Boy Mowers. Kicking off its 26th season of professional competition and the second year since the acquisition by MLF, the 2021 Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit roster will showcase a field of 165 of the top professional anglers in the world.

“We are extremely excited about the combined star power of the anglers on the 2021 MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit roster,” said Daniel Fennel, MLF Senior Director of Tournament Operations. “Combining Bass Pro Tour pros with seasoned Pro Circuit veterans and a fantastic class of rookies from across the country, we expect 2021 to be one of the most highly competitive seasons in our 26-year history.”

The 2021 MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit roster features a solid field of tournament veterans, including the return of bass-fishing legend Larry Nixon – after recovering from shoulder surgery – and multiple former FLW Cup champions including Darrel Robertson (1999), Dion Hibdon (2000), Anthony Gagliardi (2014) and Brad Knight (2015). They will be joined by John Cox, the 2016 FLW Cup champion who recently accepted his invitation to the MLF Bass Pro Tour, and 19 other Bass Pro Tour anglers who are taking advantage of the opportunity to fish upwards of 20 pro-level events between the two circuits.

The 2021 Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit will also showcase numerous former Pro Circuit Angler of the Year (AOY) winners, including Ron Nelson (2020), Anthony Gagliardi (2006), Shin Fukae (2004) and David Walker (1999). The roster will include 28 rookies from around the world, including Italy’s Jacopo Gallelli, Cal Lane – son of Bass Pro Tour pro Chris Lane – and Cody Huff, a standout Abu Garcia College Fishing presented by YETI angler from Bethel University.

The field will be showcased throughout six regular-season tournaments, with competition kicking off on Lake Okeechobee, Feb. 11-14, in Clewiston, Florida, and culminating with the 2021 MLF Tackle Warehouse TITLE championship on the Mississippi River, Aug. 17-22, in La Crosse, Wisconsin. The top award at each regular-season tournament is up to $135,000, with $235,000 going to the 2021 MLF Tackle Warehouse TITLE champion, including the lucrative $35,000 MLF BIG5 Phoenix Bonus for qualified anglers.

“It’s going to be fun getting back with many of my old friends and going tournament fishing again,” said Nixon, who is returning in 2021 for his 43rd year of fishing professionally. “I had surgery on January 6th last year and thought I’d be able to come back after six months and fish in the last tournament or two of the season, but that didn’t work out. I really missed my friends and the competition and am looking forward to a great year. I’m excited to go back to Lake Okeechobee, Smith and Murray – this is a stellar tournament schedule all the way around.”

The 2021 MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit will have 154 two-hour airings on network television, in a run that includes 24 airings on Outdoor Channel and 130 airings on Sportsman Channel, for a total of 308 hours of television programming. Traditional weigh-in livestream coverage will be combined with live-on-the-water coverage across 11 cameras on each of the final two days of each regular-season competition and all six days of the Tackle Warehouse TITLE. Fans can catch 108 hours of live action as it unfolds on MajorLeagueFishing.com.

“I’m really excited about the 2021 schedule,” said Gagliardi, MLF Bass Pro Tour angler and one of a few anglers who has won both an FLW Cup and AOY title. “I’ve always liked starting out the year on Lake Okeechobee in Florida – so many of us have history and familiarity there. Smith Lake is also a fun tournament lake and one I’ve had good success on. The opportunity to fish my home lake, Lake Murray, was a big factor in my choice to fish the Pro Circuit in addition to the Bass Pro Tour.

“I’ve never fished two pro tours consecutively, so it will be a lot of fishing for me, but I feel like this is a great opportunity. I think both tours create a great schedule all the way around, and I’m looking forward to getting after it in 2021.”

For complete details and updated information, visit FLWFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

2021 MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Anglers
*Shannon Abbott Oceanside, Calif.
Jason Abram Piney Flats, Tenn.
Barron Adams Mineral Bluff, Ga.
Casey Ashley Donalds, S.C.
Scott Ashmore Broken Arrow, Okla.
*Tai Au Glendale, Ariz.
Adrian Avena Vineland, N.J.
Evan Barnes Hot Springs, Ark.
Clayton Batts Butler, Ga.
Bradford Beavers Summerville, S.C.
Matt Becker Finleyville, Pa.
Zack Birge Blanchard, Okla.
Daryl Biron South Windsor, Conn.
*Jason Blair West Palm Beach, Fla.
*Mark Blevins Palatka, Fla.
Greg Bohannan Bentonville, Ark.
Terry Bolton Benton, Ky.
*Josh Bragg Jacksonville, Ala.
Christopher Brasher Longview, Texas
Aaron Britt Yuba City, Calif.
Grae Buck Green Lane, Pa.
Miles Burghoff Soddy-Daisy, Tenn.
*Josh Butler Hayden, Ala.
Jon Canada Helena, Ala.
*Michael Caruso Peoria, Ariz.
Joey Cifuentes Clinton, Ark.
Ramie Colson, Jr. Cadiz, Ky.
*Justin O’Brian Cooper Zwolle, La.
Kyle Cortiana Coweta, Okla.
John Cox DeBary, Fla.
Mitch Crane Columbus, Miss.
Lance Crawford Broken Bow, Okla.
Ryan Davidson Branchland, W.V.
Alex Davis Albertville, Ala.
Darrell Davis Dover, Fla.
Randy Despino Colfax, La.
Tommy Dickerson Orange, Texas
Scott Dobson Clarkston, Mich.
Bradley Dortch Atmore, Ala.
Josh Douglas Isle, Minn.
Kurt Dove Del Rio, Texas
Dakota Ebare Denham Springs, La.
Jon Englund Farwell, Minn.
Ron Farrow Rock Hill, S.C.
Mark Fisher Wauconda, Ill.
*Trevor Fitzgerald Belleview, Fla.
Cole Floyd Leesburg, Ohio
Tim Frederick Leesburg, Fla.
Shinichi Fukae Palestine, Texas
Anthony Gagliardi Prosperity, S.C.
Nick Gainey Charleston, S.C.
*Jacopo Gallelli Florence, Italy
*Grant Galloway Houlka, Miss.
Kyle Gelles Pingree, Ind.
Matt Greenblatt Port St. Lucie, Fla.
Chad Grigsby Maple Grove, Minn.
Kyle Hall Granbury, Texas
Dylan Hays Hot Springs, Ark.
Dion Hibdon Versailles, Mo.
*Lawson Hibdon Versailles, Mo.
Billy Hines Vacaville, Calif.
Brett Hite Phoenix, Ariz.
Jamie Horton Centerville, Ala.
Miles Howe San Juan Capistrano, Calif.
*Cody Huff Ava, Mo.
John Hunter Shelbyville, Ky.
*Clabion Johns Social Circle, Ga.
Danny Kirk Bartow, Ga.
Brad Knight Lancing, Tenn.
*Takayuki Koike Ōtsu, Japan
Jason Lambert Michie, Tenn.
Bobby Lane Lakeland, Fla.
*Cal Lane Guntersville, Ala.
Christopher Lane Guntersville, Ala.
Brian Latimer Belton, S.C.
Jeremy Lawyer Sarcoxie, Mo.
Nick Lebrun Bossier City, La.
*Jason Lieblong Conway, Ark.
Richard Lowitzki Hampshire, Ill.
Justin Lucas Guntersville, Ala.
Terry Luedtke Burton, Texas
Erik Luzak Fenelon Falls, Ontario, Canada
Kevin Martin Crown City, Ohio
Lendell Martin, Jr. Nacogdoches, Texas
Michael Matthee Centurion, South Africa
Mike McClelland Blue Eye, Mo.
Bill McDonald Greenwood, Ind.
Brandon McMillan Clewiston, Fla.
Jared McMillan Belle Glade, Fla.
Kevin Meeks Smyrna, Tenn.
Cody Meyer Star, Ind.
Colby Miller Elmer, La.
Kerry Milner Fisher, Ark.
Kurt Mitchell Milford, Del.
Tom Monsoor La Crosse, Wis.
Troy Morrow Eastanollee, Ga.
Brandon Mosley Choctaw, Okla.
Jim Moynagh Shakopee, Minn.
Robert Nakatomi Sacramento, Calif.
Michael Neal Dayton, Tenn.
Chris Neau New Orleans, La.
Corey Neece Bristol, Tenn.
*Jim Neece, Jr. Bristol, Tenn.
Ron Nelson Berrien Springs, Mich.
Dicky Newberry Houston, Texas
Cody Nichols Fayette, Ala.
James Niggemeyer Van, Texas
Larry Nixon Quitman, Ark.
Lane Olson Sherwood, Ore.
Jake Ormond Sterlington, La.
Jordan Osborne Longview, Texas
Dave Parsons Yantis, Texas
*Cody Pike Powhatan, Va.
Keith Poche Pike Road, Ala.
Pete Ponds Madison, Miss.
Randy Ramsey Burlington, Mich.
Tom Redington Royse City, Texas
Matt Reed Madisonville, Texas
Clark Reehm Elm Grove, La.
Jimmy Reese Witter Springs, Calif.
Skeet Reese Auburn, Calif.
Jason Reyes Huffman, Texas
*Kevin Riney Jonesboro, Ark.
Darrel Robertson Jay, Okla.
*Ricky Robinson Greenback, Tenn.
Dean Rojas Lake Havasu City, Ariz.
Zell Rowland Montgomery, Texas
Rusty Salewske Alpine, Calif.
Ryan Salzman Huntsville, Ala.
Casey Scanlon Eldon, Mo.
Colby Schrumpf Highland, Ill.
*Chase Serafin White Lake, Mich.
Braxton Setzer Wetumpka, Ala.
Spencer Shuffield Hot Springs, Ark.
Charles Sim Wasaga Beach, Ontario, Canada
Blake Smith Lakeland, Fla.
Derrick Snavely Piney Flats, Tenn.
Matthew Stefan Junction City, Wis.
Tyler Steward West Monroe, La.
*Troy Stokes Brownstown, Mich.
Wesley Strader Spring City, Tenn.
Laramy Strickland Bushnell, Fla.
Mike Surman Boca Raton, Fla.
*Scott Towry Lawrenceburg, Tenn.
Rusty Trancygier Hahira, Ga.
J. Todd Tucker Moultrie, Ga.
Jim Tutt Longview, Texas
Jason Vance Battle Ground, Ind.
John Voyles Petersburg, Ind.
David Walker Sevierville, Tenn.
Jacob Wall New Hope, Ala.
*Todd Walters Kernersville, N. C.
Chad Warren Sand Springs, Okla.
Jimmy Washam Covington, Tenn.
Joshua Weaver Macon, Ga.
Joseph Webster Winfield, Ala.
Kyle Weisenburger Columbus Grove, Ohio
*Joe Wieberg Freeburg, Mo.
Jesse Wiggins Logan, Ala.
Scott Wiley Bay Minette, Ala.
David Williams Maiden, N.C.
*Jason Wilson Lincolnton, N.C.
Tyler Woolcott Port Orange, Fla.
Gary Yamamoto Palestine, Texas
*Steve York Bronson, Mich.

*denotes MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Rookie

by AnglersChannel

AC Insider Podcast from "Planet Rock" to "Never Give Up!"

On this final episode of 2020, Chris and the boys welcome in the one and only Mike Iaconnelli to the talk about 2021, the crews back in the day and so much more! If you listen to one episode this year, its gotta be this one. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year to everyone!!!

by AnglersChannel

Luke Clausen Joins Charger Boats

Richland, Missouri - For the 2021 season, Major League Fishing professional bass angler Luke Clausen will be running a Charger 210 Elite as he competes on the Bass Pro Tour.

"I'm excited to work with Charger and their great team," said Clausen. "They have a long history of building boats for over 40-years. They make a great boat and I felt right at home when I visited the factory. They value excellent craftsmanship and attention to detail and I know that my 210 Elite will be the perfect boat to compete on the Bass Pro Tour."

Joe Dorris of Charger is pleased to have an angler of Clausen's caliber join the team.

"It is a privilege and honor to have Luke join the Charger family," said Dorris. "We wish him the very best of luck in 2021 as he fishes out of a Charger 210 Elite."

For over 40 years, Charger has built some of the most durable, fishable boats on the water. They have added scores of design, performance, and comfort features to Charger boats' new lineup, including all-composite construction, modern instrumentation, updated graphics, redesigned seating, and more. For more information about Charger, visit chargerboats.com.

For more information on Luke Clausen, find him on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

by AnglersChannel

MLF Moves Championship Tournament to Proven Big-Fish Factory, REDCREST 2022 to Remain in Tulsa

TULSA, Okla. (Dec. 22, 2020) – Major League Fishing (MLF) announced today that REDCREST 2021, the MLF Bass Pro Tour Championship, has been shifted to Lake Palestine in Flint, Texas. Originally scheduled to be held Feb. 23-27, 2021 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the dates have also shifted slightly to Feb. 21-25. REDCREST 2021 will showcase the top 40 Bass Pro Tour anglers from the 2020 season competing for the prestigious REDCREST title and the top prize of $300,000.

The decision to move the event was made after numerous Bass Pro Tour anglers suggested a new fishery location for the championship tournament after MLF announced the cancellation of the Outdoor Sports Expo in Tulsa in late November. With no Expo taking place, MLF officials agreed to shift the event to Lake Palestine, an 18-mile long Texas reservoir known for its tremendous bass-fishing and the numerous 10-plus-pound largemouth that live throughout the lake. The fishery is known for annually producing multiple bass that are recognized by the Texas Parks and Wildlife’s popular Toyota ShareLunker program.

“Grand Lake is an awesome fishery, but when we found out that MLF was open to the consideration of shifting REDCREST 2021, it was something that most of us were really excited about,” said Ott DeFoe, who won the Bass Pro Tour Stage Three event on Texas’ Lake Fork last season and will be making his second REDCREST appearance. “When we found out that we were moving to Lake Palestine, it was even better. Texas certainly has a special place in my heart. REDCREST 2021 is going to be a tremendous way to kick off the season and a really fun tournament for the fans to follow. We’re going to see some absolute giants caught in this one – we’re hitting it just right – and we will likely see quite a few records broken there.”

In addition to the opportunity to feature the Championship event on an exciting fishery, the shift also made sense logistically, according to MLF Senior Director of Events & Partnerships Michael Mulone.

“It makes sense, from a business standpoint, to shift to Lake Palestine and save Tulsa and Grand Lake for REDCREST 2022,” Mulone said. “Grand Lake is a championship fishery, but when we postponed the Expo in Tulsa we realized that we could do a better job of highlighting Grand Lake with the Expo component. The fact that this will be our inaugural Expo, in the home of Major League Fishing, we want to ensure we are doing everything possible to not dilute the event in any way. We truly want to blow it out of the water next year and fully expect it to be the biggest show in town. We are grateful to our partners with the City of Grove, the Grove Area Chamber of Commerce and VisitTulsa that gave their blessings to shift the REDCREST 2021 tournament. We expect Lake Palestine and REDCREST 2021 to produce one of the most exciting tournaments in our company’s history.”

MLF announced in November that Tulsa and Grand Lake of the Cherokees will host REDCREST 2022, with the River Spirit Expo Square set to host the inaugural REDCREST 2022 Outdoor Sports Expo on March 25-27, 2022. Those dates remain unchanged.

For complete details and updated information on REDCREST 2021, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF’s social media outlets at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram , and YouTube.

by AnglersChannel

Bassmaster Marshal Registration Opens In January For 2021 Elite Season

Bassmaster Elite Series marshals ride along with the pros in competition, learning tips for breaking down a fishery.

Photo by B.A.S.S.

December 22, 2020

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Bass fishing enthusiasts who want to learn from the world’s best anglers while exploring legendary fisheries will be able to register as marshals for the 2021 Bassmaster Elite Series beginning January 5. Plus, new for the 2021 season, AFTCO will be rewarding marshals with a shirt, hat, sun mask, gift card and other items with a total value of $100, plus a 20% off coupon for future purchases.

According to past participants, marshaling is the ideal way to learn while enjoying a day on the lake getting to know your favorite pro.

“Being able to see how the top pros fish a body of water you may fish frequently or may fish in a future tournament is absolutely invaluable,” said Rick Moore, a retired California resident who has served as a marshal in 23 B.A.S.S. events. “The enthusiasm among the Elite pros is great, and their connection and interaction with marshals was exceptional!

“I have been able to see many of the new bait prototypes, learn new techniques and receive personal tips from the Elite pros at many tournaments. As a marshal, the pros will be candid about what and why they are fishing a certain way. I can't count the number of times a pro has had me join him on the front deck to show how he was interpreting his graphs or reading the movements of a bedding fish.”

The marshal program, created by B.A.S.S. in 2009 as a way to attract observers who would ride along with the pros, allows people to spend two to three days on the water with some of the best professional anglers in the sport. Marshals are not allowed to fish, but they are encouraged to take photos, send blog posts to Bassmaster.com and serve as an extra set of eyes for B.A.S.S. tournament officials, making sure all rules are observed. Additionally, marshals operate the digital BASSTrakk scoring system that enables fans to follow the action in real time.

For Moore, both enforcing the rules and chronicling the tournament are part of the benefit of serving as a marshal.

“I enjoyed the responsibility of being the ‘eyes and ears' on the water,” said Moore. “B.A.S.S. has a long history of big bass tournaments, and being able to do my part to assist with ensuring the sanctity of the event has been a welcomed challenge.”

Marshal spots are available for just $99 per tournament. Every marshal is guaranteed to be on the water for the first two competition days. As the Elite Series field is cut throughout the weekend leading up to the Championship, marshals are chosen for additional competition days based on how early they register for the event as well as their video, blogging and photography in the preliminary rounds.

“Just sitting in the boat would make for a long day without photographing the tournament, Skyping with the TV team during live coverage and helping with Bassmaster media content,” Moore said. “And many of my photos have also been used by the pros for their social media content.”

One of the 2020 season’s most exciting clips — rookie Kyle Welcher catching a 10-pounder at the St. Johns River — was shot on an iPhone by his marshal, Les Cook, and has since been reaired during television and Bassmaster LIVE coverage.

“Kyle had a few bites throughout the day, and I tried to make it a point to capture all of his catches on video, but when he said, ‘Big one dude,’ I knew something was different,” said Cook, of St. Augustine, Fla.

Serving as a marshal at the AFTCO Bassmaster Elite at St. Johns River fulfilled what Cook said had been a longstanding bucket list activity. Having spent earlier years fishing South Dakota club tournaments, he was intrigued by the opportunity of taking a front-row seat to live-action learning.

“I’ve always wanted to be in a position to sit with a pro, learn their techniques and thought processes and become a better fisherman myself,” Cook said. “I wanted to go to new waters and figure out how to fish those new waters."

The marshal experience appeals to those from all walks of life and anyone ready to gather tips and tricks from seasoned fishermen.

“From the first morning with your angler to behind the stage with the winner on the final day, a lot of inside stories develop that you would never know as a strict observer,” Moore said. “It takes the serious bass fisherman to a different level as a fan.”

Registration for B.A.S.S. Life and Nation members opens online January 5 and by phone Jan. 7. All other B.A.S.S. members may register online beginning Jan. 12 and by phone beginning Jan. 14. To learn more and register for the Elite Series marshal program, visit Bassmaster.com or call (877) BASS-USA.

2021 Bassmaster Elite Series schedule

Feb. 11-14, AFTCO Bassmaster Elite at St. Johns River, Palatka, Fla.
Feb. 25-28, Tennessee River, Knoxville, Tenn.
April 8-11, Sabine River, Orange, Texas
May 6-9, Neely Henry Lake, Gadsden, Ala.
May 20-23, Lake Guntersville, Scottsboro, Ala.
June 10-13, Pickwick Lake, Florence, Ala.
July 8-11, Lake Champlain, Burlington, Vt.
July 15-18, St. Lawrence River, Waddington, N.Y.

by AnglersChannel

T-H Marine Unwraps its 'All I Want for Christmas' Giveaway

Huntsville, AL – December 21, 2020 – T-H Marine Supplies, Inc, of Huntsville, Alabama, is gifting 10 lucky people with up to 10 of its top fishing and boating products this Christmas season. Through the launch of their “All I want for Christmas” giveaway, T-H Marine will be using a marathon event on social media to undo some 2020 blues, bring holiday cheer, and help boaters start 2021 right — with trusted gear that helps improve the fishing and boating experience.

It starts with one product giveaway during the 8 a.m. hour (Central Time) on Wednesday, December 23, and it snowballs from there with hourly giveaways for more and more products until 5 p.m. By the end of the day, giveaway entrants will have a chance to win all of the prizes announced during previous hours in one awesome package that’s far too big to be a stocking stuffer.

Event information:

WHAT:
T-H Marine ‘All I Want for Christmas’ Hourly Giveaway

WHEN:
From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT, Wednesday, December 23, 2020

WHERE:
https://facebook.com/thmarineteam
https://instagram.com/thmarineteam

WHO:
Anyone interested in boating and fishing gear
(please see the sweepstakes link below for official rules)

To get in on the action, save the information above, stay tuned at thmarine.com, and follow T-H Marine Supplies (@thmarineteam) on social media.

by AnglersChannel

James Watson Joins Charger Boats

For over 46 years Charger has built the most durable, fishable boats on the water. Charger Boats are designed with performance and comfort as their top priority. With composite construction, modern instrumentation, updated graphics, redesigned seating and more along with four decades of experience it’s hard to beat a Charger Boat.

Whether you’re a seasoned tournament professional or a “rookie” weekend angler, Charger boats give you a distinct advantage when you’re driving down the lake, taming a big river or trolling the back of a reclusive cove. You’ll feel confidence in your Charger every time you hit the water.

Joe Dorris President of Charger boats shared “I am a strong supporter of our military forces, and I knew the first time I met James he needed to be with the Charger family. We are honored, and it is a great privilege to have James running and fishing out of a Charger 210 Elite for the 2021 season. The entire Charger family and team wish James the very best of luck in 2021 and Go Army!”

James is enthusiastic to be joining the Charger boats team; “after riding in a Charger boat and getting to know the Dorris family, this move was the best for my career. Charger has been owned and operated by the Dorris family for the last 50 years. Their boats are made close to home and are of the best quality. I am looking forward to building a long term relationship with the team and their family.”

About James Watson:

James “JMFW WORLDWIDE” Watson is known for his quick wit and knack for jokes on the water. The real-estate mogul has used his success in residential real estate sales to fuel his passion for fishing. As a self-made angler and former United States Army Drill Sergeant he equally enjoys balancing the completion and the business sides of the bass community.

His 2013 season was the start of his career as a professional angler. Although his venture began later than some, James has accomplished many feats since he began at age 38.

From a BASS Open win to the Bassmaster Classic, Watson promotes fishing on a WORLDWIDE level. Additionally, James has qualified for the Forrest Wood Cup and the Texas Toyota Bass Classic during his duration fishing the FLW Tour, FLW Toyota Series, BASS Opens, PAA and Major League Fishing. He has also competed as a member of the US Bass Team in the Black Bass Championship in 2017 in South Africa and in 2018 in Mexico. Bringing home the gold medal with the team in 2018.

In 2018, he received the Forrest L. Wood Sportsmanship and Community Leadership Award per his involvement in FLW Community Outreach.

He prides himself on his personality, often gaining him media attention, which positively promotes his sponsors. All eyes are watching where James “WORLDWIDE” Watson will go with his professional fishing career.

You can find James fishing Major League Fishing’s Bass Pro Tour, FLW Toyota Series as well as attending charity events when it fits his schedule.

Follow along with James and his partnership with Charger Boats to see all the excitement 2021 will bring:

by AnglersChannel

AnglersChannel EXTRA - World Record Santa Derby!!!!!

On this Holiday edition of the AnglersChannel Extra, Blonde Girl Behind the Scene's Michelle Eichstead joins in the fun and covers the Ugly Stick Worlds Largest Santa Claus Tournament on Lake Norman in North Carolina. Tune in to see all the Santa's in action and you may even recognize a Santa or two....

by AnglersChannel

Strike King Big Bass Challenge Events Coming in 2021

Lexington, S.C. – December 9, 2020 – Rather Outdoors announces the formation of a series of big bass format tournaments coming in 2021. The Strike King Big Bass Challenge will feature four events across the nation on some of the most well-known big bass fisheries in the country. The series will be one-day events with four two-hour weigh-in periods and guaranteed payouts based on field size.

Strike King is excited to introduce this series of events that will allow anglers of every level to compete in a fun atmosphere that will be both challenging and rewarding. Whether you are a hard-core tournament angler, want to be one, or looking for something to do with a friend or family member, Strike King Big Bass Challenge events will be a great place to accomplish all of these goals.

Strike King Big Bass Challenge will guarantee a minimum $7,500 total cash payout based upon a 100-angler field, with growing payouts as entry numbers increase. Each event will feature a one-day format with four weigh-in periods of two hours. Every two-hour weigh period will pay out five places for the five biggest bass in that period. On top of that, every angler that weighs a fish in those periods will be entered into a drawing for product prizes from Strike King, Lew’s, Lucas Oil, Mammoth Coolers and Black Rifle Coffee Co.

The biggest bass weighed during the day will receive the grand prize bonus – a “total boat makeover” prize package voucher for $5,000 worth of Lew’s and Strike King product. The first 100 anglers registered for each event will receive a free Lew’s rod valued at $49.99, which will be available for pickup at onsite check-in and rules briefing the night prior to the event where anglers will also have the opportunity to meet nationally known Strike King Pros from the MLF Bass Pro Tour, MLF Pro Circuit and Bassmaster Elite Series.

Rather Outdoors’ Vice President of Marketing, Jason McKee said that the team at Strike King is extremely excited about launching this new series of events in 2021. “While we recognized that there are a multitude of tournament trails out there for anglers, our goal behind the Big Bass Challenge events was to bring anglers together in a manner that was open and available to anyone, no matter his/her experience level,” said McKee. “Ultimately, we wanted the opportunity to share our passion as anglers with our consumers, get to know them, and present yet another opportunity for them to get on the water. We’re extremely excited about these events and consider it an honor to be able to create more opportunities on the water for fellow anglers.”

Information including entry fees, rules and registration will be available with complete event details in early January 2021 at www.strikeking.com.

The 2021 Strike King Big Bass Challenge schedule is as follows:

Sam Rayburn Reservoir – February 7, 2021

Umphrey Pavilion

Brookeland, TX

Lake Murray – March 14, 2021

Dreher Island State Park

Prosperity, SC

Table Rock Lake – June 5, 2021

Port of Kimberling

Kimberling City, MO

California Delta – May 29, 2021

Russo's Marina

Bethel Island, CA

by AnglersChannel

B.A.S.S. Announces 2021 Bassmaster Opens Schedule With Nine Events In Three Divisions

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — On Thursday, B.A.S.S. officials revealed the schedule for the 2021 Basspro.com Bassmaster Opens trail with a later start date than usual and a change in format from the past three seasons.

Instead of two divisions with four tournaments, this year’s Opens circuit will include three divisions — Southern, Central and Northern — with three events in each.

All nine tournament winners will earn an automatic berth to the 2022 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk if they fish all events in their division. Additionally, the top three finishers from each division’s points standings will receive an invitation to fish the 2022 Bassmaster Elite Series, as will the top three from the overall standings accumulated in all three divisions.

“We’ve only been done a couple of weeks, but I’m already so excited about the 2021 schedule we’ve put together,” said Bassmaster Opens Tournament Director Chris Bowes. “This last season, with all of its stops and starts, was the hardest of my life. But I’m so proud we were able to get it all in. And every event was critical in a season that saw our Falcon Rods Bassmaster Opens Angler of the Year race decided by just one point.

“Now, after a short break, we can once again expect to see some of the most competitive Opens we’ve ever had.”

Since the 2020 Opens schedule was pushed back by the COVID-19 pandemic, it didn’t finish until the first week of December. As a result, the 2021 Opens schedule will begin in March instead of its traditional January start date.

The Southern Opens will start on the Harris Chain of Lakes in Leesburg, Fla., March 4-6, followed by events on Douglas Lake in Dandridge, Tenn., April 15-17, and Lake Norman in Charlotte, N.C., Sept. 23-25.

“It’s certainly nothing unusual for us to kick things off in Florida,” Bowes said. “But with this year’s opener in March instead of January or February, anglers will face some different challenges. Then we’ll get to visit Dandridge when we should have great spring weather and Lake Norman for a fall event — and we all saw this year how interesting fall tournaments can be.”

The division’s stop at Harris Chain will mark the 18th major tournament B.A.S.S. has held on the fishery since 1986.

“Lake County is excited to host the 2021 Bassmaster Southern Open on the Harris Chain of Lakes,” said Lake County Chairman Sean Parks. “We look forward to providing an enjoyable atmosphere for anglers and their families as they experience the hospitality and charm of real Florida.”

The Central Opens will begin April 1-3 with a trip to Lewis Smith Lake in Jasper, Ala., followed by events at Pickwick Lake in Counce, Tenn., April 29-May 1, and a stop at Grand Lake in Grove, Okla., Oct. 21-23.

Smith is known as one of the top spotted bass fisheries in the country, while Pickwick offers the typical Tennessee River mixture of largemouth and smallmouth. Grand Lake has been the site of two Bassmaster Classics, most recently in 2016.

“You talk about variety,” Bowes said. “The three tournaments we have scheduled for the Central Division will test anglers’ versatility about as much as three events can. Anglers who can go from a spotted bass haven to a Tennessee River fishery to a diverse setting like Grand Lake — and do well in all three — will have proven their abilities beyond the shadow of a doubt.”

This will be the Opens Series’ first stop in Pickwick, and the community is looking forward to welcoming anglers.

“We are excited to welcome the Basspro.com Bassmaster Opens to Pickwick and Hardin County,” said Beth Pippin, Tourism Director for the Hardin County Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Pickwick Lake is known for great fishing and scenic beauty that we locals get to enjoy every day! Hosting this tournament will allow us to showcase our beautiful area with national media exposure. It’s a win-win for everyone.”

Just as temperatures are rising in the South, the Northern Opens will kick off on the James River in Richmond, Va., May 13-15. That event will be followed by two New York tournaments, the first on Oneida Lake in Syracuse July 29-31, and the second on the St. Lawrence River in Clayton Sept. 9-11.

“We’re excited to welcome some of the fishing world’s best anglers as they compete on the historic James River,” said Jerrine Lee, Director of Sports Development at Richmond Region Tourism. “Our region is proud to once again serve as host for this exciting event and can’t wait to cheer on participants at weigh-ins.”

The James River has hosted a B.A.S.S. Open five of the past six years, and Oneida has hosted seven Opens since 2010. The St. Lawrence River and 1000 Islands area has been one of B.A.S.S.’s most frequently visited tournament venues — for everything from high school contests to Elite Series events.

“The James River is a tidal fishery, and that always presents a different set of circumstances for tournament anglers,” Bowes said. “Then, when you talk about New York during the summertime, it just doesn’t get much better than that for bass anglers.”

The payout per event will be $250,400 (based on a field of 150 anglers), giving the nine-event circuit a total payout of more than $2.25 million. In a change from previous seasons, the full field will fish the first two days, with the winning co-angler being named after Day 2. The final round will feature the Top 10 pros.

Registration for pro and co-anglers will begin online January 12, 2021 for B.A.S.S Nation and Life members and Jan. 14 for B.A.S.S. members.

“With the difficulty of scheduling during the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re leaning heavily on our established partners,” said B.A.S.S. CEO Bruce Akin. “The result has been a schedule with a lot of familiar venues, but one that will challenge anglers’ abilities like any Opens schedule should.

“The 2020 Opens season was one of the most competitive we’ve ever seen, with an incredible mix of veteran pros and hungry, up-and-coming young anglers. We expect the 2021 season to be even more exciting.”

Booming interest and participation in the Opens led B.A.S.S. to expand coverage of the tournaments, including real-time scoring updates and a live streaming show with commentary by Bassmaster Elite Series anglers. These popular changes will continue in 2021.

“When we restarted the Opens season on the Arkansas River in June 2020, both boaters and co-anglers began using BASSTrakk,” said Jim Sexton, B.A.S.S. VP of Digital. “During the remaining six Bassmaster Opens tournaments, this became the most popular page on our website. As more anglers become comfortable with the technology, we hope folks on both ends of the boat will update their catches because it helps us provide even more exposure on the site.

“Fans also responded enthusiastically to the new Bassmaster Opens LIVE show as camera boats provided coverage of the leaders, streaming more than 6.8 million minutes of on-the-water and weigh-in action. It was the perfect way to learn from the anglers while they broke down tough fisheries in a variety of conditions and seasons. In 2021, those cameras will be in the boat with the pros on the final day.”

2021 Basspro.com Bassmaster Opens schedule

Southern Opens
March 4-6, Harris Chain of Lakes, Leesburg, Fla.
Apr. 15-17, Douglas Lake, Dandridge, Tenn.
Sept. 23-25, Lake Norman, Charlotte, N.C.

Central Opens
Apr. 1-3, Lewis Smith Lake, Jasper, Ala.
Apr. 29-May 1, Pickwick Lake, Counce, Tenn.
Oct. 21-23, Grand Lake, Grove, Okla.

Northern Opens
May 13-15, James River, Richmond, Va.
July 29-31, Oneida Lake, Syracuse, N.Y.
Sept. 9-11, St. Lawrence River/1000 Islands, Clayton, N.Y.

by AnglersChannel

AC Extra - Behind the Scenes with Rob Digh

This week AC's John Byrne talks with Elite Series Pro Staffer Rob Digh about the upcoming Elite Series season and the holidays.

by AnglersChannel

From the Mound to the Front Deck - With Marc Frazier

This week Chris and the boys welcome in Elite Series newcomer Marc Frazier to talk about his journey into professional bass fishing. A former SEC College Baseball pitcher, Marc has pitched in some of the most intense games and that helps him not feel the pressure when he's on the front deck of his bass boat. Check this one out!

by AnglersChannel

COVERCRAFT® Announces Title Sponsorship of Bradley Roy

PAULS VALLEY, OKLAHOMA – Today, Covercraft® announced its continuation as the title sponsor of Major League Fishing^TM professional angler Bradley Roy of Lancaster, Kentucky.

“We are thrilled to continue this partnership with Bradley,” said Covercraft Director of Marketing Jeff Jegelewicz. Covercraft began as an associate sponsor of Bradley Roy’s in the latter half of 2018 and made the transition to title sponsor in 2019 as Bradley joined Major League Fishing’s Bass Pro Tour. “He’s a part of the Covercraft Family and we’re proud of the work we’ve done together so far,” continued Jegelewicz.

In addition to being a highly skilled angler, Bradley is dedicated to giving back to the community through charitable events and programs. One part of Roy’s commitment to his community is the annual Bradley Roy High School Open fishing tournament. Beginning in 2019, the Bradley Roy Open added Covercraft as the title sponsor. “Bradley’s community involvement, particularly with the High School effort, speaks volumes about his character, and it’s why we feel he represents the Covercraft brand so well,” added Jegelewicz.

Roy also gives back to American veterans through a partnership with Louisville-based USA Cares (www.usacares.org). Roy hosts two annual benefit tournaments to help the organization provide financial and advocacy assistance to post-9/11 active-duty US military service personnel, veterans, and their families. To date, the events have raised over $40,000.

The Bass Pro Tour veteran is enthusiastic about Covercraft as a company and the role they play in fishing. “You could not ask for a better group of people to work with than the Covercraft folks,” said Roy. “From converting their factories over to produce much-needed PPE earlier in 2020, to supporting high school fishing and our American veterans through our partnership with USA Cares, they continue to amaze me. The fishing industry is so fortunate to have them involved!”

Covercraft branding will again be the focus of Roy’s truck, boat, and jersey for 2021, but the sponsorship goes beyond that. With the support of Covercraft, Roy will again host a sweepstakes for one angler to fish with him on Lake Cumberland. Covercraft will outfit the lucky winner’s vehicle with their products from bumper to bumper.

by AnglersChannel

How Sumrall catches Christmas time bass

Alan McGuckin - Dynamic Sponsorships

Late 2017 was a time in Caleb Sumrall’s journey he will never forget. In life changing fashion, he won the B.A.S.S. Nation National Championship on Lake Hartwell to launch his pro career, and six weeks later a very rare pre-Christmas snowfall blanketed his Southern Louisiana home.

Speed ahead three years, and while Sumrall doesn’t see snow in Cajun country’s forecast, he is absolutely certain quality time at home with family is his greatest Christmas gift, along with a framed note from his beloved grandma who passed-away two years ago.

“My grandma was a huge fan of my fishing career, and like all the other friends and family who were there, she signed the “Congratulations” banner they made for me at the celebration party when I got home from my win at Hartwell,” explains Sumrall.

“She passed-away not too long after that, and my wife Jacie made a copy of Granny’s signed section of the banner, and had it framed for me. It’s one of the greatest Christmas gifts I’ve ever received,” reflects Sumrall.

Favorite Christmas gifts are easy to identify for the former oil field worker, and so are his favorite lures for catching bass during the holidays.

“A jig would be the obvious cold-water lure of choice for a lot of people, but I like to keep moving. So I lean pretty hard on a big Colorado blade spinnerbait and a Spro McStick 115 jerkbait at this time of year,” says Sumrall.

Water temps amid the holidays are often among the lowest of the year, even in Southern Louisiana, so Sumrall’s top two lure choices both play well to lethargic bass -- with one big exception between the two – water clarity. The ‘thumper blade’ spinnerbait performs well in stained to dirty water, while the jerkbait is his pick for cleaner water.

“Plenty of visibility is absolutely key to getting bites on a jerkbait. And since fish notoriously come loose on a jerkbait – I’ll give you a tip – add Gamakatsu finesse treble hooks to your jerkbaits. The finesse trebles have lighter wire, so you’ll get better penetration and lose way fewer fish,” advises Sumrall.

If water clarity is stained or dirty, Sumrall breaks-out the single ‘hubcap’ blade on his ½ ounce Kajun Boss spinnerbait in an effort to create plenty of vibration to stir the holiday appetites of shallow water fatties.

“Not only does that big blade produce crazy amounts of vibration, but it also has so much resistance, you can’t help but slow down your retrieve, which is also key to getting bites in cold water,” he reasons.

Sumrall advises keeping the flash of the big blade just barely out of sight during your retrieve, and throws it on 20-pound line, spooled to a 6.3:1 or 7.1:1 reel.

But there are two things you can be certain he won’t lose sight of this Christmas – “Granny’s” framed handwritten note, and the special goodness of time at home with Jacie, daughter Clelie, and son Axel.

by AnglersChannel

THE UGLY STIK WORLD’S LARGEST SANTA CLAUS BASS TOURNAMENT RAISES MORE THAN $15K IN TOYS TO DONATE TO TOYS FOR TOYS

World record-setting event featured 298 Santa suit-wearing anglers fishing to make Christmas possible for children in need.

COLUMBIA, S.C. (December 14, 2020) — The Ugly Stik World’s Largest Santa Claus Bass Tournament not only set a world record last weekend, it ensured that Christmas will be a reality for hundreds of children in need living in the Lake Norman area.

A total of 298 anglers competed in the one-day, two-angler team event on Lake Norman, but before taking the water to compete while wearing Santa Claus costumes, the anglers donated toys. By the time the tournament was underway at safe light, a pair of 21-foot-long Bass Cat boats were overflowing with toys, which were presented to Toys for Tots at the afternoon weigh-in. The value of the toys donated by anglers, Ugly Stik and other supporters was estimated to be well in excess of $15,000.

“It would be difficult to find a group of people more passionate than anglers are about giving back and helping others in need. And we saw a need that we believe deserves to be filled, so we created an event where we combine two things everyone loves—Christmas and fishing—to see that no child goes without a visit from Santa Claus this year,” said Ugly Stik Vice President of Marketing Jon Schlosser. “I’m proud of the fishing community for coming together to this degree for such a worthy cause. And I’m proud that we achieved these results while also having a great time.”

This year has been especially difficult for charities of all kinds. Due to the pandemic, there are no large-scale events with which to raise funds and solicit donations. In the case of Toys for Tots, many of its donations comes from donation boxes located at businesses. This year, according to Vivian Meletis, Toys for Tots Coordinator for Iredell Co. (N.C.), more than 30 percent of the local businesses which previously displayed donation boxes are now shuttered due to the pandemic.

“The number of children who need Toys for Tots never decreases. Based on the number of donations we received to this point, it was looking bleak—but Marines never give up and we weren’t going to let COVID-19 be the Grinch this year,” said Meletis, who helped Toys for Tots distribute toys to about 4,000 children in 2019 alone. “The anglers were our angels this year. What the anglers and Ugly Stik did with this overwhelming donation overcomes our deficit so that we will continue to be able to provide for children in the area. We can’t thank everyone involved enough. This means so much.”

For more information about Ugly Stik and its legendary line of fishing rods as well as its new line of Ugly Tuff reels and Ugly Tools, go to www.uglystik.com.

by AnglersChannel

NPFL Announces Inaugural Schedule for 2021

The National Professional Fishing League, announced in October of 2019, is finally able to announce their 2021 season. The Inaugural Season will kick off in mid-March on the famed Big Bass Capital on Lake Eufaula in Eufaula, Alabama. More to come!

Stop #1 - Lake Eufaula - March 11-13, 2021

Stop #2 - Wright-Patman Lake - Texarkana, TX - April 22-24, 2021

Stop #3 - Harris Chain of Lakes - Leesburg, FL - June 3-5, 2021

Stop #4 - Pickwick Lake - Counce, TN - July 15-17, 2021

Stop #5 - Lake Winnebago - August 19-21, 2021

Stop #6 - Grand Lake-September 30-October 2, 2021

Championship -

by AnglersChannel

HAMRICK AND HOOVER WIN THE UGLY STIK WORLD’S LARGEST SANTA CLAUS BASS TOURNAMENT ON LAKE NORMAN

Event set world record for anglers competing in Santa suits, generates substantial donation to Toys for Tots

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (December 12, 2020) — Scott Hamrick of Denver, N.C., and Roger Hoover of Mooresville, N.C., brought a five-fish limit to the scales weighing 15.07 pounds to win The Ugly Stik World’s Largest Santa Claus Bass Tournament on Lake Norman. The event, sponsored by legendary rod maker Ugly Stik and operated by Fishers of Men, set a world record for the largest bass tournament contested by anglers competing in Santa Claus suits with 298 competitors.

With the win, Hamrick and Hoover took home the guaranteed $5,000 first-place prize. The one-day, two-angler team event drew a field of 149 teams and paid out to 30th place.

Hamrick and Hoover said they boated 25-30 fish on the day, most of them coming on a crankbait in the lower portions of the lake. However, their bigger bites came up the lake later in the day.

“The was a fantastic event, just had an awesome time and not just because we won—this area needs this kind of big team tournament where especially this time of year,” Hamrick said. “We hope they have the event next year."

Nick Miller took home the Big-Bass Pot, valued at $1,040, with 4.68-pound bass.

In addition to a lucrative payout structure and low entry fees, The Ugly Stik World’s Largest Santa Claus Bass Tournament also awarded more than $7,000 worth of raffle prizes from leading fishing brands such as Ugly Stik, Abu Garcia, Berkley, Humminbird, X2Power, Costa, DuraSafe and Academy Sports + Outdoors.

“There were a lot of great anglers on the water today, including professionals and amateurs, and I can guarantee you none of them has ever had this much fun in a bass tournament. Ugly Stik is about having fun and catching fish—no matter what you’re fishing for—and today reflects that,” said Ugly Stik Vice President of Marketing Jon Schlosser. “We congratulate Scott and Roger for their great day of Lake Norman and we congratulate all the anglers who came to be a part of this great event to generate such a substantial donation to Toys for Tots.”

For more information about Ugly Stik and its legendary line of fishing rods as well as its new line of Ugly Tuff reels and Ugly Tools, go to www.uglystik.com.

by AnglersChannel

Wiggins Wins Classic Fish-Off, Earns Final Classic Berth At Florida’s Harris Chain

Jordan Wiggins, of Cullman, Ala., has won the Bassmaster Team Championship Classic Fish-Off on the Harris Chain of Lakes with a two-day total of 31 pounds, 9 ounces.
Photo by Brenden Kanies/B.A.S.S.
December 12, 2020

LEESBURG, Fla. — There were times Saturday when Jordan Wiggins wondered if he had enough magic remaining to write the fairy-tale ending for a special week on the Harris Chain of Lakes.

He had to work for it, but the 29-year old Cullman, Ala., resident proved in the end that dreams really do come true in central Florida.

Wiggins won the Bassmaster Team Championship Classic Fish-Off on Saturday with a two-day total of 10 bass that weighed 31 pounds, 9 ounces. His limit of 9-0 on Day 2 was significantly less than the tournament-best 22-9 he caught a day earlier, but it was enough for him to punch his ticket into the 2021 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk.

The Classic is scheduled for March 19-21 on Lake Ray Roberts near Fort Worth, Texas. Wiggins is the 54th and final angler to qualify for the next edition of the biggest bass tournament in the world.

“I’ve been shaking all day just thinking about making it to the Classic,” he said shortly after receiving a congratulatory hug from his wife, Whitney. “I’ve dreamed of this ever since I’ve been going fishing and I’ve been fishing a long time. This is awesome; just unreal.”

Wiggins and his fishing partner Wesley Sams qualified for the Bassmaster Team Championship via the Alabama Bass Trail. They won the team portion of the tournament earlier this week with a two-day total of 39-8 and were one of three teams that advanced to the Classic Fish-Off.

Wiggins continued with the hot hand during the fish-off, when the top six anglers had their weights zeroed and started fishing individually. Wiggins’ 22-9 bag on Friday was anchored by a whopping 8-12 largemouth that was the heaviest catch of the week and gave him a 7 1/2-pound cushion heading into the final day.

Wiggins suspected the final day would be a grind, both mentally and physically, and it was. He fished all week on the same stretch of eelgrass and Kissimmee grass where Lake Harris meets Little Lake Harris, but the bite wasn’t nearly as productive Saturday as it had been the three previous days.

Feeling the pressure, he remained on the deck of his boat for seven consecutive hours, not even stopping to take a drink despite the 80-degree temperature.

Wiggins mustered a limit, but he was concerned one of his five competitors might catch a Harris Chain heavy and overtake him. They also failed to find big bass Saturday, however, with Andy Walls of the Minnesota B.A.S.S. Nation weighing the big bag (12-10) to finish second overall with 23-5. Sams caught 10-6 and placed third with 21-2.

“I knew when I put the boat in this morning that it wasn’t going to be a good day,” Wiggins said, noting the patchy cloud cover over central Florida on Saturday.

“If you’re in Florida and you don’t have much knowledge of the lake, you want the sun. It’s your friend, especially when you’re fishing grass. I still won by a good amount, but I’m disappointed I didn’t catch them better than I did. I’m just lucky the other guys didn’t have great days either.”

Wiggins threw a white Z-Man Evergreen ChatterBait JackHammer with a White Trash Little Dipper to catch every bass he weighed in both the team portion and the fish-off. He said the key was getting the bait nudged against the Kissimmee grass and moving it slowly through the small area between it and the eelgrass.

Wiggins had fished the Harris Chain before, teaming with Sams to finish 30th in the 2018 Bassmaster Team Championship. Both anglers said that experience gave them a chance to learn how the fishery works and they utilized the knowledge this year.

Wiggins also thanked his brother Jesse, who loaned him his truck to make the drive to the Harris Chain. Jesse is a pro angler with three previous Bassmaster wins to his credit, including the Southern Open on the Harris Chain in 2017. Jesse also fished in three Classics, finishing third in 2019 on the Tennessee River in Knoxville.

Jordan, 19 months younger than Jesse, said he and his brother are very competitive.

“He holds that over my head, that he’s fished the Classic,” Jordan said. “But now I’m going too, and he can’t say anything anymore.”

Rounding out the Classic Fish-Off standings were Daryl Adams, Alabama Bass Trail, 21-1, Keith Tuma, Minnesota B.A.S.S. Nation, 18-10 and Keith Mayfield, Alabama Bass Trail, 14-10.

The tournament was hosted by GO Sports, Visit Lake and the City of Leesburg.
2020 Bassmaster Team Championship Premier Sponsors: Abu Garcia, Berkley, Humminbird, Mercury, Minn Kota, Nitro Boats, Power-Pole, Skeeter Boats, Talon, Yamaha

2020 Bassmaster Team Championship Classic Fish-Off - Harris Chain of Lakes 12/11-12/12
Harris Chain Of Lakes, Leesburg FL.
(BOATER) Standings Day 2

Angler Club/School Pts

1. Jordan Wiggins Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 5 22-09 Day 2: 5 09-00 Total: 10 31-09
2. Andy Walls MN BASS Nation 0
Day 1: 5 10-11 Day 2: 5 12-10 Total: 10 23-05
3. Wesley Sams Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 5 10-12 Day 2: 5 10-06 Total: 10 21-02
4. Daryl Adams Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 5 14-07 Day 2: 5 06-10 Total: 10 21-01
5. Keith Tuma MN BASS Nation 0
Day 1: 5 15-00 Day 2: 3 03-10 Total: 8 18-10
6. Keith Mayfield Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 4 08-01 Day 2: 5 06-09 Total: 9 14-10

by AnglersChannel

Wiggins Takes Big Lead In Classic Fish-Off On Harris Chain Of Lakes

Jordan Wiggins, of Cullman, Ala., is leading after Day 1 of the Bassmaster Team Championship Classic Fish-Off on the Harris Chain of Lakes with 22 pounds, 9 ounces.

Photo by Brenden Kanies/B.A.S.S.
December 11, 2020

LEESBURG, Fla. — Victory in a child’s game Thursday night put Jordan Wiggins within striking distance of the biggest win of his life on Day 1 of the Bassmaster Team Championship Classic Fish-Off on the Harris Chain of Lakes.

Wiggins and Wesley Sams, from the Alabama Bass Trail, were fresh off winning the team portion of the event Thursday, and they needed to decide who would get dibs on a spectacular stretch of eelgrass they utilized for their victory.

They settled the matter with a game of “Rock, Paper, Scissors,” and Wiggins came out on top. The 29-year-old angler from Cullman, Ala., then leaned on the grass Friday to take the lead in the two-day fish-off with a five-bass limit that weighed 22 pounds, 9 ounces.

“I made my first pass along the grass and I caught a couple of 3-pounders,” said Wiggins, whose bag was anchored by a personal-best 8-12 largemouth. “I was able to finish my limit out, and on my next pass, I saw the big one about 30 feet off the grassline.

“My trolling motor was pointing that way, so I threw my ChatterBait over there. I cranked it two times and when he hit it, he knocked slack in it. We got a video of it. It lasted about 20 seconds. It was unreal.”

Wiggins’s limit jumped from approximately 12 to 19 pounds in an instant and his nerves settled.

“I knew I could kind of lay back on them a little bit then because I knew I had a good bag,” he said. “I didn’t want to keep busting them because I’m going to need every 2-pounder that’s there tomorrow.”

Even with a 7-9 lead over Keith Tuma of the Minnesota B.A.S.S. Nation, who is second in the fish-off with 15-0, Wiggins thinks he’ll need 18 to 20 more pounds to seal the victory. If he does, he’ll nail down the final spot in the 2021 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk scheduled for March 19-21 on Lake Ray Roberts near Fort Worth, Texas.

“I know I’m gonna need that weight tomorrow,” Wiggins said. “The second day is always harder than the first. It’s always a mental grind. I’d rather come from behind, but I’ll take what I have. I was very fortunate today.”

Tuma rode a strong morning bite to second place. He said he’s throwing a “big worm and also a Senko worm on a really light weight with a heavy hook and braid because I know the fish here can be big.”

Tuma caught a 7-pounder during the Team Championship, and Wiggins’ giant on Friday reaffirmed for everyone that no lead is safe on the Harris Chain.

Hefty bites have been steady this week with the weather warming daily, from the mid-50s on Wednesday to the high 70s on Friday. Saturday’s conditions are expected to be partly cloudy with a high temperature around 80 degrees, which could mean more lunkers on the line.

“On this lake, it’s one bite that could be the difference-maker,” Tuma said. “You could get five bites like that. It’s anybody’s game here.”

Daryl Adams of the Alabama Bass Trail is right behind Tuma in third place with 14-7. Sams is fourth with 10-12, Andy Walls of the Minnesota B.A.S.S. Nation is fifth with 10-11 and Keith Mayfield of the Alabama Bass Trail is sixth with 8-1. Each of the anglers caught a five-bass limit on Friday, except Mayfield, who had four keepers.

Wiggins and Sams won the two-day Bassmaster Team Championship on Thursday with a total of 10 bass that weighed 39-8. They collected a $20,000 cash prize from Ranger/Mercury, as well. Walls and Tuma finished second in team standings with 39-1 and Mayfield and Adams were third with 38-2. The Top 3 tandems in the team portion advanced to the Bassmaster Team Championship Classic Fish-Off.

The fish-off concludes Saturday at Ski Beach Park in Leesburg’s Venetian Gardens. Weigh-in is scheduled for 3 p.m. and fans can catch all the action live on Bassmaster.com.

The tournament is being hosted by GO Sports, Visit Lake and the City of Leesburg.
2020 Bassmaster Team Championship Premier Sponsors: Abu Garcia, Berkley, Humminbird, Mercury, Minn Kota, Nitro Boats, Power-Pole, Skeeter Boats, Talon, Yamaha

2020 Bassmaster Team Championship Classic Fish-Off - Harris Chain of Lakes 12/11-12/12
Harris Chain Of Lakes, Leesburg FL.
(BOATER) Standings Day 1

Angler Club/School Pts

1. Jordan Wiggins - Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 5 22-09 Total: 5 22-09
2. Keith Tuma - MN BASS Nation 0
Day 1: 5 15-00 Total: 5 15-00
3. Daryl Adams - Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 5 14-07 Total: 5 14-07
4. Wesley Sams - Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 5 10-12 Total: 5 10-12
5. Andy Walls - MN BASS Nation 0
Day 1: 5 10-11 Total: 5 10-11
6. Keith Mayfield - Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 4 08-01 Total: 4 08-01

by AnglersChannel

Sams, Wiggins Win Bassmaster Team Championship, Earn Berths To Classic Fish-Off On Harris Chain

Wesley Sams and Jordan Wiggins, from the Alabama Bass Trail, have won the 2020 Bassmaster Team Championship on the Harris Chain of Lakes with a two-day total of 39 pounds, 8 ounces.

Photo by Brenden Kanies/B.A.S.S.

December 10, 2020

LEESBURG, Fla. — Wesley Sams and Jordan Wiggins caught the heaviest bag of the Bassmaster Team Championship on Thursday to earn a come-from-behind victory on the Harris Chain of Lakes.

Sams and Wiggins, who hail from Cullman, Ala., and represent the Alabama Bass Trail, bagged a five-bass limit that weighed 22 pounds, 5 ounces to vault from seventh place on Day 1 to the top of the leaderboard on Day 2. Coupled with Wednesday’s 17-3 limit, the duo finished with 39-8 overall to top the 142-team field.

By virtue of their victory in the team portion of the tournament, Sams and Wiggins advanced to the Classic Fish-Off. They, along with the second and third-place duos, will have their weights zeroed and begin another two-day competition Friday. This time they will be fishing individually for the final berth in the 2021 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk scheduled for March 19-21 on Lake Ray Roberts near Fort Worth, Texas.

“It’s an awesome feeling to win the team championship,” Sams said. “But the big prize is a chance to get in the Classic. If it’s not me in it, I’m pulling for (Wiggins). And I know he’ll be pulling for me, too.”

Sams and Wiggins, who earned a $20,000 cash prize from Ranger/Mercury for winning the team competition, have fished on the Harris Chain before, cashing a check in the 2018 Team Championship. They revisited some of the spots that produced two years ago, as well as one spot Wiggins’ brother Jesse fished to win a Bassmaster Open several years ago.

None of those locations were hitting this year, however, with the tandem having only two small bites late Wednesday morning.

Determined to do better, they motored to a strip of hydrilla Wiggins spotted on his electronics about 6 feet underneath the surface of Lake Harris. Every fish they weighed in the Team Championship came from that same short stretch of aquatic grass.

The winners weren’t sharing which bait they used to spark their bite, but they’ll definitely be using it again in the fish-off.

“I’ll have three rods on the deck and I’ll have that tied on all three of them,” Sams said.

Wiggins concurred.

“We just have to get lucky,” he said.

Sams said once he and Wiggins found the right spot Wednesday, they knew they had a chance to make the fish-off. They were in seventh place heading into Day 2 and had nearly 5 pounds to gain on Day 1 leaders Keith Ellis and Roger Kendrick of the Chattanooga (Tenn.) Bass Association.

“We thought if we could get over 20 pounds today, we’d have a shot (to make the fish-off),” Sams said. “And if we got 22 1/2 or 23, we thought we could win it today.”

Andy Walls and Keith Tuma of the Minnesota B.A.S.S. Nation finished second in team standings with 10 bass for 39-1, including a 21-6 limit Thursday. They were in sixth place on Day 1 but advanced to the Classic Fish-Off with a strong finish.

Keith Mayfield and Daryl Adams, who like Sams and Wiggins qualified for the championship via the Alabama Bass Trail, placed third overall with 38-2 and rounded out the Top 6 for the fish-off on Friday and Saturday.

Mark Condron and Tony Simeri, yet another tandem from the Alabama Bass Trail, finished fourth with 38-2. Ellis and Kendrick slipped to fifth with a 13-3 limit Thursday and 35-5 overall.

Two teams tied for the Big Bass Award and split the $500 prize four ways. Danny Lavoie and Sammy Bailey of the Alabama Bass Trail caught their 8-7 largemouth Wednesday, while Rick Imler and Scott Newlon of Ohio’s Great Lakes Largemouth Series matched the feat a day later.

Wednesday’s temperature was cool, with highs near 60, but a warming trend is sweeping across central Florida. Thursday’s highs hovered at 70 degrees and the temperature is expected to reach 80 by Saturday, which many anglers feel could make the Harris Chain bass bite even more productive.

In all, 142 two-person teams (284 anglers) qualified via their respective trails for the Team Championship. The field at the Harris Chain split a total purse of $77,000.

The Classic Fish-Off begins at 7 a.m. ET both Friday and Saturday from Ski Beach Park in Leesburg’s Venetian Gardens. Weigh-ins are scheduled for 3 p.m. at the park and fans can catch all the action live on Bassmaster.com.

2020 Bassmaster Team Championship Harris Chain 12/9-12/10
Harris Chain Of Lakes, Leesburg FL.
(BOATER) Standings Day 2

Angler Club/School Pts

1. Wesley Sams - Jordan Wiggins Day 1: 5 17-03 2. Andy Walls - Keith Tuma Day 1: 5 17-11 3. Keith Mayfield - Daryl Adams Day 1: 5 16-05 4. Mark Condron - Tony Simeri Day 1: 5 21-11 5. Keith Ellis - Roger Kendrick Day 1: 5 22-02 6. Rodney Chastain - Robby Hipps Day 1: 5 21-12 7. Joey Solomon - Daniel Taylor Day 1: 5 14-02 8. Jacob Foutz - Brian Foutz Day 1: 5 16-09 9. Joe Wiseman - Lane Parkins Day 1: 5 17-02 10. Matt Henry - Justin Kimmel Day 1: 5 17-00 11. Mark O'Brien - Brennon Mccord Day 1: 4 11-06 12. John Kleinoeder Day 1: 5 12-09 13. Stephen Mcavoy - Josh Butts Day 1: 5 17-04 14. Kyle Patrick - Jimmy Obrien Day 1: 5 10-15 15. Brian Adamson - Ryan Lloyd Day 1: 5 14-00 16. Jacob Zeigler - Zach Zeigler Day 1: 5 16-06 17. Casey Majni - Brandon Willis Day 1: 5 10-00 18. Jeffrey Brauneck - Fred Brauneck Day 1: 5 08-08 19. James Copenhaver III - Adam Dysart Day 1: 5 14-12 20. Steve Wilson - Harold Rogers Day 1: 5 12-07 21. Ryan Kelly - Joshua Schumaker Day 1: 5 21-02 22. Shawn Williams - Shane Williams Day 1: 5 14-02 23. Eric Niswonger - Kyle Radake Day 1: 5 10-00 24. Jeff Carman - Andy Greynolds Day 1: 5 14-13 25. Doug Stamper - Ryan Davidson Day 1: 5 12-07 26. Adam Bain - Kris Colley Day 1: 5 18-15 27. Dustin Neat - Mark Wethington Day 1: 5 13-00 28. Kelly Power - Mark Wiese Jr Day 1: 5 12-09 29. Todd Buckingham - Chris Beaudrie Day 1: 5 16-03 30. Danny Lavoie - Sammy Bailey Day 1: 3 12-08 31. Jeff Lewis - Fredrick Adkins Day 1: 5 12-15 32. Dean Yamagata - Ryan Yamagata Day 1: 5 11-15 33. Owen Windham - Shawn Larance Day 1: 5 12-01 34. Glenn Harrison - Rusty Darnell Day 1: 5 10-02 35. Nick Compagner - Ben Baker Day 1: 5 14-04 36. Brad Jelinek - Brock Reinkemeyer Day 1: 5 12-12 37. Shane Howell - Milton Adams Day 1: 5 13-07 38. Clayton Wilcox - Zach Huyser Day 1: 5 12-01 39. Keith Kulow - Adam Arnold Day 1: 5 08-00 40. James Seymour - Tony McBride Day 1: 5 15-00 41. Brody Manley - Barrett Keel Day 1: 5 09-05 42. Ryan Fingleton - Ryan Hubler Day 1: 5 12-11 43. Blain Bartley - Justin Kappeler Day 1: 5 16-09 44. Trevor Jancasz - Tom Moleski Day 1: 5 15-07 45. Mark Mott - Justin Mott Day 1: 5 12-08 46. Rick Fishback - Blake Felix Day 1: 5 14-15 47. Rick Imler - Scott Newlon Day 1: 5 10-05 48. Joe Heath - Wayne Heath Day 1: 5 09-13 49. Dennis Chavez - Stephan Camden Day 1: 5 11-02 50. Jack Tibbs - Duane Mock Day 1: 5 09-03 51. Steven Huegerich - Darrin Kirkland Day 1: 5 07-13 52. Tom Statler - Dillon Statler Day 1: 5 14-09 53. Bobby Albert - Robert Cowan Day 1: 5 13-08 54. Troy Buck - Charles Wieghat Day 1: 5 09-15 55. Kevin Hagerman - Max Suter Day 1: 5 08-05 56. Mark Thompson - Tim Newberry Sr Day 1: 1 01-15 57. Eddie Levin - Ryan Mallory Day 1: 5 10-15 58. Jayson Hooven - Matthew Keeble Day 1: 5 09-14 59. Jeffrey Kyle - Samuel Drake Day 1: 4 09-02 60. Lucas Murphy - Nolan Hitt Day 1: 5 07-00 61. Steven White - Dakota Bellew Day 1: 5 11-08 62. Ben Lind - Michael Hubbard Day 1: 5 09-07 63. Mark Orsi - Aaron Orsi Day 1: 5 09-01 64. Tyler Williams - Denis Carrier Day 1: 5 13-08 65. Shane Gray - Dustin Gray Day 1: 5 08-05 66. Jerry Loveless - Jordan Loveless Day 1: 5 07-10 67. Brian Bylotas - Brian Bylotas Day 1: 5 09-00 68. Brandon Ackerson - Brad Cook Day 1: 5 10-00 69. Joey Stewart - Trent Mangum Day 1: 3 10-00 70. Capt. Jim Keith - Jimbo Keith Jr Day 1: 5 16-07 71. William Woodall - Roger Foraker Day 1: 5 09-00 72. Kameron Harbin - Danny Ashley Day 1: 5 08-12 73. John Richards - Brent Bowen Day 1: 5 08-12 74. Mike Polencheck - Brad Longerbone Day 1: 4 08-07 75. Jake Knight - Stephen Plumb Day 1: 5 07-03 76. Brandon Hawthorne Day 1: 5 09-14 77. Jeff Gilliam - Johnny Clark Day 1: 4 07-01 78. John Smith - Tyler Faulkner Day 1: 5 15-04 79. Drew Blackwood - Terry Blackwood Day 1: 2 02-11 80. Greggory Zumwalt - Keith Hendrix Day 1: 5 14-13 81. Matthew Farrabee - Mark Mounts Day 1: 2 04-04 82. Steve Barnes - AJ Barnes Jr Day 1: 3 03-06 83. Brian Chandler - Jermey Jenks Day 1: 3 04-04 84. Jamie Worth - Johnny Callison Jr Day 1: 1 02-14 85. Neil Witkowski - Bobby May Day 1: 3 06-00 86. Alan Fluharty - Chad Brinegar Day 1: 5 07-04 87. Dave Frost - Nick Manfredo Day 1: 5 12-11 88. Bryan Dowdy - Kyle Lewellen Day 1: 5 12-06 89. Jared Winland - Brandan Becki Day 1: 2 03-14 90. Bill Mayo - Walton Roberts Day 1: 4 04-08 91. Jeff Delk - Mike Combs Day 1: 5 11-15 92. Ryan Westgate - Donald Bulk Day 1: 2 05-00 93. Rick Johnston - Connor Cunningham Day 1: 0 00-00 94. Russ Franklin - Jeremy Garrison Day 1: 2 03-02 95. David Buday - Daryl Devries Day 1: 5 11-08 96. Daniel Padgett - Brad Padgett Day 1: 5 11-06 97. Michael Jones - Jake Fordyce Day 1: 2 04-06 98. Garrett Seppala - Travis Salo Day 1: 5 10-11 99. Frank Favicchio - David Schultz Day 1: 5 07-05 100. George Toalson - Tom Haynes Day 1: 5 10-04 100. Kelly Warren - James Hadley Day 1: 5 10-04 102. Jarrod Swift - Trenton Estridge Day 1: 4 10-04 103. Don Depew - Brian Ruetz Day 1: 5 10-03 104. Tim Cooper - Bob Clements Day 1: 2 03-00 105. Kent Keys - David Campbell Day 1: 4 09-15 106. Steven Weber - Sam Phillips Day 1: 3 05-12 107. Ray Huff - Katherine Row Day 1: 1 01-02 108. Rob Messenger Jr - John Levesque Day 1: 5 08-09 109. Tyler Weaver - Luke Routh Day 1: 4 08-08 110. Mark McCaig - Tim Hurst Day 1: 4 08-07 111. Paul Gohlke - Bill Mcquarrie Day 1: 5 08-04 112. Jamie Smith - Michael Rains Day 1: 5 08-02 113. Todd Wilson - Mark Wilson Day 1: 4 08-01 114. Micheal Henderson - Tim Cook Day 1: 5 07-14 115. Cody George - Josh Prince Day 1: 5 07-04 116. Greg Glouse - Joe Anders Day 1: 3 07-04 117. Mike Rogers - Donnie Crist Day 1: 5 07-00 118. Mike Heffelfinger - Kyle Colone Day 1: 3 06-15 118. Dale Teaney - Randy Alexander Day 1: 3 06-15 120. Owen Hentschel - David Hentschel Day 1: 2 02-14 121. Michael Brewer - Jason Cannon Day 1: 4 06-07 122. Chris Lueg - Heath Stuart Day 1: 2 02-03 123. Terry Pryor - Terry Mann Day 1: 4 06-03 124. Lanier Burton - Mike Keel Day 1: 3 06-03 125. Jeff Cherry - Stephen Rosson Day 1: 0 00-00 126. John Campbell - David Rogers Day 1: 4 05-14 127. James Vanderhoning Day 1: 5 05-08 128. Michael Cass - Jacob Whitman Day 1: 3 04-14 129. Hank Golden - Jeffery Lancaster Day 1: 3 04-12 130. Lucas Mcdaniel - Joshua Norris Day 1: 2 04-11 131. Rocky Carden - Jacob Delong Day 1: 4 04-09 132. Jeffrey Cannon - Terry Tucker Day 1: 3 04-02 133. Jason Burroughs - Darren Ashley Day 1: 1 03-05 134. Hunter Hamilton - Ty Ball Day 1: 2 03-04 134. Chuck James - Brad James Day 1: 2 03-04 136. tim Manning - Cody Wilder Day 1: 2 03-02 137. Ronald Belew - Derek Dace Day 1: 0 00-00 137. Anthony Goggins - Jeremy Headley Day 1: 0 00-00 137. Caleb Mcneal - Taylor Luna Day 1: 0 00-00 137. Jason Morgan Day 1: 0 00-00 137. Eric Morris - Ben Williamson Day 1: 0 00-00 137. Drew Sadler - Brian Richmond Day 1: 0 00-00 Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 2: 5 22-05 Total: 10 39-08
MN BASS Nation 0
Day 2: 5 21-06 Total: 10 39-01
Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 2: 5 21-13 Total: 10 38-02
Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 2: 5 16-07 Total: 10 38-02
Chattanooga Bass Association 0
Day 2: 5 13-03 Total: 10 35-05
Palmetto Boat Center-PBC 0
Day 2: 5 12-14 Total: 10 34-10
Morristown Marine 0
Day 2: 5 19-15 Total: 10 34-01
Tennessee Team Trail 0
Day 2: 5 15-14 Total: 10 32-07
Lock Down 0
Day 2: 5 14-03 Total: 10 31-05
Berry's Tournament Trail 0
Day 2: 5 14-01 Total: 10 31-01
Anglers Choice 0
Day 2: 5 19-06 Total: 9 30-12
- Robert Mccafferty Great Lakes Largemouth Series 0
Day 2: 5 17-14 Total: 10 30-07
Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 2: 5 13-03 Total: 10 30-07
Empire Team Trail 0
Day 2: 5 19-06 Total: 10 30-05
Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 2: 5 15-14 Total: 10 29-14
Anglers choice 0
Day 2: 5 12-10 Total: 10 29-00
Morristown Marine Team Trail 0
Day 2: 5 18-15 Total: 10 28-15
West Michigan Bass 0
Day 2: 5 19-14 Total: 10 28-06
Chattanooga Bass Association 0
Day 2: 5 13-07 Total: 10 28-03
Tennessee team Bass nation 0
Day 2: 5 15-11 Total: 10 28-02
West Michigan Bass 0
Day 2: 5 06-15 Total: 10 28-01
Ozark Mountain Team Trail 0
Day 2: 5 13-13 Total: 10 27-15
U.S. Anglers Choice 0
Day 2: 5 17-11 Total: 10 27-11
Anglers Outpost NTBA 0
Day 2: 5 11-14 Total: 10 26-11
Anglers outpost NTB 0
Day 2: 5 14-03 Total: 10 26-10
Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 2: 4 07-04 Total: 9 26-03
NTBA 0
Day 2: 5 13-03 Total: 10 26-03
Ozark Mountain Team Trail 0
Day 2: 5 13-09 Total: 10 26-02
Kentucky Bass Nation 0
Day 2: 5 09-14 Total: 10 26-01
Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 2: 5 13-09 Total: 8 26-01
Morristown Marine 0
Day 2: 5 12-13 Total: 10 25-12
Nevada Bass Anglers 0
Day 2: 5 13-09 Total: 10 25-08
Media Bass 0
Day 2: 5 13-03 Total: 10 25-04
Joe Bass Team Trail 0
Day 2: 5 14-14 Total: 10 25-00
West Michigan Bass 0
Day 2: 5 10-07 Total: 10 24-11
Joe bass team trail 0
Day 2: 5 11-08 Total: 10 24-04
3F Tournaments 0
Day 2: 5 10-11 Total: 10 24-02
West Michigan Bass 0
Day 2: 5 12-00 Total: 10 24-01
Iowa BN Team Trail 0
Day 2: 5 16-00 Total: 10 24-00
Texas B.A.S.S Nation Team Trail 0
Day 2: 5 08-12 Total: 10 23-12
Lake Hartwell 5 Alive Sunday Ser 0
Day 2: 5 14-04 Total: 10 23-09
West Michigan Bass 0
Day 2: 5 10-13 Total: 10 23-08
Keystone Bass Buddy Circuit 0
Day 2: 5 06-10 Total: 10 23-03
D&R Sports Center Series 0
Day 2: 5 07-09 Total: 10 23-00
Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 2: 5 10-02 Total: 10 22-10
Joe Bass Team Trail 0
Day 2: 5 07-09 Total: 10 22-08
Great Lakes Largemouth Series 0
Day 2: 3 12-03 Total: 8 22-08
AOM NTBA 0
Day 2: 5 12-07 Total: 10 22-04
Nevada B.A.S.S. Nation Team Trai 0
Day 2: 5 11-02 Total: 10 22-04
Shotgun Sports Supply 0
Day 2: 5 12-11 Total: 10 21-14
Iowa Bass Nation 0
Day 2: 5 13-15 Total: 10 21-12
Joe Bass Team Trail 0
Day 2: 3 06-06 Total: 8 20-15
Ozark Mtn Team Trail 0
Day 2: 5 07-04 Total: 10 20-12
3F 0
Day 2: 5 10-08 Total: 10 20-07
Cheat Lake Anglers 0
Day 2: 5 11-12 Total: 10 20-01
Joe Bass TT 0
Day 2: 5 18-00 Total: 6 19-15
OH BN Team Trail 0
Day 2: 5 08-14 Total: 10 19-13
Lakeland Bassmasters 0
Day 2: 5 09-13 Total: 10 19-11
Florida Bass Nation 0
Day 2: 5 10-08 Total: 9 19-10
Grand Valley State University 0
Day 2: 5 12-08 Total: 10 19-08
Southside Fishing Team 0
Day 2: 5 07-15 Total: 10 19-07
Centennial Bass Club 0
Day 2: 4 09-14 Total: 9 19-05
Massachusetts Sunday Classic Tea 0
Day 2: 5 09-11 Total: 10 18-12
Somerset Bassmasters 0
Day 2: 4 05-00 Total: 9 18-08
Media Bass Teams 0
Day 2: 4 09-15 Total: 9 18-04
USA Bassin 0
Day 2: 5 10-08 Total: 10 18-02
0
Day 2: 5 08-03 Total: 10 17-03
Angler Nation 0
Day 2: 5 07-00 Total: 10 17-00
Coosa River Team Trail 0
Day 2: 4 06-11 Total: 7 16-11
Florida 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 16-07
DE B.A.S.S. Nation 0
Day 2: 3 07-01 Total: 8 16-01
Palmetto Boat Center 0
Day 2: 5 07-05 Total: 10 16-01
NH Bass nation 0
Day 2: 4 07-05 Total: 9 16-01
MN BASS Nation Team Trail 0
Day 2: 4 07-08 Total: 8 15-15
Bayou Bassin League 0
Day 2: 5 08-05 Total: 10 15-08
- Tracy Hawthorne Empire Team Trail 0
Day 2: 4 05-07 Total: 9 15-05
Alabama bassNation 0
Day 2: 2 08-04 Total: 6 15-05
Morristown Marine 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 15-04
Sunflower team trail 0
Day 2: 5 12-06 Total: 7 15-01
Joe Bass Team Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 14-13
Keystone Bass Buddy Circuit 0
Day 2: 5 10-08 Total: 7 14-12
CBA 0
Day 2: 5 11-05 Total: 8 14-11
West Michigan Bass 0
Day 2: 5 10-00 Total: 8 14-04
Western PA Team Bass Series 0
Day 2: 5 10-15 Total: 6 13-13
West Michigan bass 0
Day 2: 5 07-12 Total: 8 13-12
Benton's Ferry Bassmasters 0
Day 2: 5 06-08 Total: 10 13-12
FL BN Team Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 12-11
Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 12-06
Great Lakes Largemouth Series 0
Day 2: 4 08-02 Total: 6 12-00
Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 2: 5 07-08 Total: 9 12-00
NTBA 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 11-15
West Michigan Bass 0
Day 2: 3 06-15 Total: 5 11-15
Ozark Mountain TT 0
Day 2: 3 11-13 Total: 3 11-13
Ozark mountain team trail 0
Day 2: 4 08-08 Total: 6 11-10
West Michigan 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 11-08
TN Team Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 11-06
Pennsylvania Bass Nation 0
Day 2: 5 06-10 Total: 7 11-00
NH Bass Nation 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 10-11
IBN 0
Day 2: 3 03-00 Total: 8 10-05
Angler Nation 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 10-04
Hadley and Warren 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 10-04
Anglers Outpost NTBA 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 4 10-04
GLLS 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 10-03
White River Bass Masters 0
Day 2: 3 07-01 Total: 5 10-01
Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 4 09-15
joe bass team trail 0
Day 2: 2 03-15 Total: 5 09-11
Cen Cal Elites 0
Day 2: 5 07-10 Total: 6 08-12
NH Bass Nation 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 08-09
Joe bass team trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 4 08-08
Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 4 08-07
Mi Bass Nation 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 08-04
Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 08-02
Ntbf 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 4 08-01
West Michigan BASS 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 07-14
Tennessee Team Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 07-04
Palmetto Boat Center 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 3 07-04
Joe Bass Team Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 07-00
Michigan NTBA 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 3 06-15
Morristown marine team trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 3 06-15
West Michigan Bass 0
Day 2: 3 03-14 Total: 5 06-12
Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 4 06-07
KC Team Tour 0
Day 2: 3 04-03 Total: 5 06-06
Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 4 06-03
Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 3 06-03
Coosa River Team Trail 0
Day 2: 5 05-15 Total: 5 05-15
Joe Bass Team Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 4 05-14
II - Mark Anderson West Michigan Bass 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 5 05-08
Florida B.A.S.S. nation team 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 3 04-14
Kowaliga Bassmaster 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 3 04-12
Chickamauga Bass Club 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 2 04-11
Joe Bass Team Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 4 04-09
Coosa River Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 3 04-02
Palmetto Boat Center 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 1 03-05
Morristown Marine Team Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 2 03-04
Chattanooga Bass Association 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 2 03-04
Morristown Marine Team Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 2 03-02
Joe Bass Team Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 0 00-00
Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 0 00-00
Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 0 00-00
- Craig Whittemore Jr Coosa River Team Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 0 00-00
Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 0 00-00
Bluegrass Bassmasters 0
Day 2: 0 00-00 Total: 0 00-00

by AnglersChannel

New Nabs Falcon Rods Bassmaster Opens AOY Title

Bryan New of Belmont, N.C., won the Basspro.com Bassmaster Eastern Open at Kissimmee Chain of Lakes en route to claiming the Falcon Rods Bassmaster Opens Angler of the Year title.

Photo by James Overstreet/B.A.S.S.

December 10, 2020

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — After competing in all eight 2020 Basspro.com Bassmaster Opens tournaments, Bryan New of Belmont, N.C., nabbed the Falcon Rods Bassmaster Opens Angler of the Year title by a single point. The last Open of the year at Lay Lake, Ala., was gut-wrenching for New. He caught the bass that clinched the coveted AOY trophy 20 minutes before his final weigh-in of the season.

“Without that 3-pound largemouth, I don’t win Angler of the Year,” New said.

In addition to qualifying for the Bassmaster Elite Series, New pocketed $10,000 from Falcon Rods. New also earned a berth to the 2021 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk by winning the season’s first event, the Bassmaster Eastern Open on Florida’s Kissimmee Chain of Lakes.

“This is a lifetime childhood dream come true for me,” New said. “I fought hard to get here, and I’ll need to fight hard to stay.”

Winning the Falcon Rods Bassmaster Opens AOY title is undoubtedly one of the most difficult accomplishments in tournament bass fishing. Every Open event in 2020 drew large fields that included many of the country’s top pros and a host of local hot sticks.

Stepping Up To The Opens

Prior to 2020, New had never competed in a Bassmaster Open. But he was hardly a rookie. New had won nearly $400,000 fishing mainly as a co-angler in a variety of FLW events. New credits his co-angler experience for helping him to learn to “fish the moment.”

“As a co-angler you can’t plan on anything because you don’t know what you’re doing next,” New said. “You have to evaluate what’s in front of you and try to determine the best way to catch a bass in that situation.”

New’s 2020 Open Season

Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, Fla., Jan. 15-17 - First place

Offshore hydrilla in 6 feet of water produced most of the bass New weighed at Kissimmee. He plied the submerged greenery with a Greenfish Tackle squarebill crankbait, a Megabass jerkbait and a Zoom Ol’ Monster worm.

“I was catching bass that were staging to spawn and postspawn bass coming back,” New said. “I also caught some fish on a prop bait and by punching hyacinth mats.”

Arkansas River, Okla., June 18-20 - 25th place

On the first day of the tournament, New duped one fish on a swim jig and another on a buzzbait. He caught every other bass by flipping a Zoom Baby Brush Hog into water willow.

“As tough as the bite was everywhere, I didn’t want to deal with locking out of the pool,” New said.

Sam Rayburn Reservoir, Texas, Sept. 10-12 - 30th place

A bent prop shaft on his outboard forced New to baby his engine by running slowly and fishing close to takeoff. He focused mainly on brushpiles in 8 to 22 feet of water. His primary lure was a Zoom Ol’ Monster worm.

“I love fishing brushpiles and feel I’m pretty good at it,” New said.

He also caught a few bass on crankbaits, swimbaits and one on a Whopper Plopper.

Lake Hartwell, S.C., Sept. 23-25 - 44th place

“I scratched my head a lot at Hartwell,” New said. “I had just enough largemouth bites upriver in practice to sucker me into it. I wasted half of my first day up there.”

He fished the rest of the day on the lower end of the lake casting for spotted bass. He caught his fifth bass minutes before weigh-in. A Greenfish Tackle Toad Toter buzzbait sporting a Zoom Horny Toad, a drop shot and a walking stickbait produced his fish.

“Like a dummy, I fished upriver for two hours the second day,” New said. “Then I went downlake and caught them pretty well, mostly casting a Zoom Super Fluke to canepiles.”

Neely Henry Lake, Ala., Oct. 22-24 - 100th place

New had a decent practice “bite-wise” at Neely Henry, but his fish were relating to water willow and docks, the most obvious and heavily fished cover on the lake.

“To me, a good practice is finding something sneaky,” New said.

His morning pattern of fishing a buzzbait in the water willow failed to get a bite the first day. He salvaged a small limit by skipping a Greenfish Tackle Brandon Cobb All Purpose Jig under docks, but his confidence was shaken.

“It is so rare for stuff to get to me,” New said. “I normally shake it off and work through it. The next day was my worst of the year. I couldn’t do anything right.”

He boated only two keeper bass that day, one on a jig and the other on a shaky head. As disappointed as New was in his performance, he would not be the AOY without those two fish.

Cherokee Lake, Tenn., Oct 29-31 - 53rd place

“I had two things going at Cherokee in practice,” New said. “I was catching them on a Spook first thing in the morning. The rest of my bites were on a 1/2-ounce Fitzgerald Tungsten micro jig. I was fishing it on isolated rockpiles out in the middle of nowhere.”

When the tournament got underway, New discovered that other anglers were fishing nearly every rockpile he had found. He worked hard to put five keepers — a mix of smallmouth, largemouth and spotted bass — in his livewell. New’s Spook failed to draw a bite the second day. He struggled to catch three smallmouth, one on a jig and two on a drop shot. It was a less than stellar day, but once more, without those three critical bass New would have failed to win the AOY title.

Lewisville Lake, Texas, Nov. 19-21 - 4th place

Lewisville was a helter-skelter tournament for New because the bass, for the most part, were scattered and hard to find. He claimed that he burned 50 gallons of gas each day and fished the entire lake.

On Day 1, New caught three bass by fishing docks with a 1/2-ounce jig tipped with a Zoom Big Salty Chunk. The next day he caught two bass on a squarebill and three on a ChatterBait dressed with a Zoom Super Fluke. All these fish came off rocky banks and isolated rocks.

On Championship Saturday, New caught one bass with a ChatterBait from an isolated rock, another from a dock with a jig and one more by bumping a jig over offshore rocks 8 to 16 feet deep.

Lay Lake, Ala., Dec. 3-5 - 22nd place

“Lay Lake was all about junk fishing,” New said. “Every bass I caught the first day bit a different bait.”

One of those bass was duped by cranking riprap with a squarebill, another fell for a flat-sided crankbait retrieved over a boat ramp, a ChatterBait accounted for another bass, flipping a small mat of dead water willow with a Zoom Z-Hog produced another and a micro jig coaxed a bass from a small patch of gravel 8 feet deep.

The second day was another junk fishing-palooza. New culled a limit by fishing a ChatterBait around docks and water willow, a jerkbait on bluff walls and a micro jig on deep rocks offshore. He caught mainly spotted bass throughout the event, along with a few largemouth.

“I’ve got two goals for next year,” New said. “One is to win the Classic. Two is to hold my own in the Elites and qualify for the Classic again through the Angler of the Year points.”

by AnglersChannel

Ellis And Kendrick Grab Lead At Bassmaster Team Championship On Florida’s Harris Chain

Keith Ellis and Roger Kendrick, from the Chattanooga Bass Association, are leading after Day 1 of the Bassmaster Team Championship on the Harris Chain of Lakes with 22 pounds, 2 ounces.

Photo by Brenden Kanies/B.A.S.S.

December 9, 2020

LEESBURG, Fla. — Keith Ellis and Roger Kendrick have made countless memories in 45 years of fishing together, but there’s little doubt that Day 1 of the Bassmaster Team Championship on the Harris Chain of Lakes will go down as one of their finest.

Ellis and Kendrick, who qualified for the championship via the Chattanooga (Tenn.) Bass Association, caught a five-bass limit of 22 pounds, 2 ounces on Wednesday to grab the lead in the final tournament of the 2020 Bassmaster season.

The haul gave the lifelong friends a narrow lead over Rodney Chastain and Robby Hipps of South Carolina’s Palmetto Boat Center Trail, who are in second place with 21-12. Mark Condron and Tony Simeri of the Alabama Bass Trail are third with 21-11 and Ryan Kelly and Joshua Schumaker of West Michigan Bass are fourth with 21-2.

“It was a consistent day, but we started with a good early bite and then got a good bite right before we left when it warmed up,” Kendrick said, referencing the temperatures that started in the upper 40s Wednesday morning in central Florida but climbed into the low 60s by weigh-in at Venetian Gardens Marina.

“We’re targeting grass, all that hydrilla,” Ellis said. “We’re in about 8 feet of water, looking for a little bit of wind.”

None of the other 142 teams taking part in the tournament are within 3 pounds of Ellis and Kendrick, but the leaders know they can’t sit on their Day 1 showing. That’s partly because the Harris Chain seems primed for production this week, with 90 limits caught Wednesday and a handful of bucket-mouthed bass brought to the scales that weighed more than 7 pounds each.

Ellis and Kendrick relied on a more uniform bag on Day 1, with their biggest bass weighing approximately 5 pounds and the others registering around the 4-pound range. They are fishing in Lake Griffin, which is on the northern end of the Harris Chain, and they said they caught all of their best bass in one area of that fishery.

The friends, who’ve fished together since they were 10 years old, are confident they can catch another sizable limit Thursday.

“We pulled off with them biting,” Kendrick said. “We had to make a pretty good run, so we left early to make it back. But we certainly can duplicate what we did today.”

That confidence bodes well for the leaders, who are looking to win the $20,000 cash prize provided by Ranger/Mercury that will go to the leading team after Thursday’s weigh-in is complete. It’s part of a $77,000 total purse to be distributed on Day 2 when the field will be cut to the Top 3 teams and competition will move into the Classic Fish-Off portion of the tournament.

After Thursday, the six remaining anglers will have their weights zeroed and they’ll fish individually on Friday and Saturday. The leader after those two days of competition will clinch the final spot in the 2021 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk scheduled for March 19-21 on Lake Ray Roberts near Fort Worth, Texas.

Ellis and Kendrick realize the gravity of being one good bag away from the Classic Fish-Off and fishing for the final berth in the biggest bass tournament in the world next March.

“We’re really pleased,” Kendrick said. “Our first practice of this tournament, we hardly caught anything, but it got a little bit better every day.”

That’s sort of like their decades of fishing together, they said, with perhaps their finest moment coming Wednesday during their first competition on the Harris Chain.

“It may be a little beginner’s luck,” Kendrick said. “But after spending as much time in the boat as we have, we’ve figured out a thing or two.”

Danny Lavoie and Sammy Bailey of the Alabama Bass Trail weighed the heaviest bass Wednesday — an 8-7 lunker that was one of three bass they bagged. They’re in 40th place with 12-8.

Day 2 of the Bassmaster Team Championship will begin at 7 a.m. ET Thursday from Venetian Gardens Marina. Weigh-in is scheduled for 3 p.m. and will be shown live on Bassmaster.com.

2020 Bassmaster Team Championship Harris Chain 12/9-12/10
Harris Chain Of Lakes, Leesburg FL.
(BOATER) Standings Day 1

Angler Club/School Pts

1. Keith Ellis - Roger Kendrick Chattanooga Bass Association 0
Day 1: 5 22-02 Total: 5 22-02
2. Rodney Chastain - Robby Hipps Palmetto Boat Center-PBC 0
Day 1: 5 21-12 Total: 5 21-12
3. Mark Condron - Tony Simeri Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 5 21-11 Total: 5 21-11
4. Ryan Kelly - Joshua Schumaker West Michigan Bass 0
Day 1: 5 21-02 Total: 5 21-02
5. Adam Bain - Kris Colley Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 5 18-15 Total: 5 18-15
6. Andy Walls - Keith Tuma 0
Day 1: 5 17-11 Total: 5 17-11
7. Stephen Mcavoy - Josh Butts Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 5 17-04 Total: 5 17-04
8. Wesley Sams - Jordan Wiggins Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 5 17-03 Total: 5 17-03
9. Joe Wiseman - Lane Parkins Lock Down 0
Day 1: 5 17-02 Total: 5 17-02
10. Matt Henry - Justin Kimmel 0
Day 1: 5 17-00 Total: 5 17-00
11. Blain Bartley - Justin Kappeler Keystone Bass Buddy Circuit 0
Day 1: 5 16-09 Total: 5 16-09
11. Jacob Foutz - Brian Foutz Bryan College 0
Day 1: 5 16-09 Total: 5 16-09
13. Capt. Jim Keith - Jimbo Keith Jr Florida 0
Day 1: 5 16-07 Total: 5 16-07
14. Jacob Zeigler - Zach Zeigler Anglers choice 0
Day 1: 5 16-06 Total: 5 16-06
15. Keith Mayfield - Daryl Adams Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 5 16-05 Total: 5 16-05
16. Todd Buckingham - Chris Beaudrie Kentucky Bass Nation 0
Day 1: 5 16-03 Total: 5 16-03
17. Trevor Jancasz - Tom Moleski 0
Day 1: 5 15-07 Total: 5 15-07
18. John Smith - Tyler Faulkner Morristown Marine 0
Day 1: 5 15-04 Total: 5 15-04
19. James Seymour - Tony McBride Texas B.A.S.S Nation Team Trail 0
Day 1: 5 15-00 Total: 5 15-00
20. Rick Fishback - Blake Felix Joe Bass Team Trail 0
Day 1: 5 14-15 Total: 5 14-15
21. Jeff Carman - Andy Greynolds Anglers Outpost NTBA 0
Day 1: 5 14-13 Total: 5 14-13
21. Greggory Zumwalt - Keith Hendrix Joe Bass Team Trail 0
Day 1: 5 14-13 Total: 5 14-13
23. James Copenhaver III - Adam Dysart Chattanooga Bass Association 0
Day 1: 5 14-12 Total: 5 14-12
24. Tom Statler - Dillon Statler Joe Bass Team Trail 0
Day 1: 5 14-09 Total: 5 14-09
25. Nick Compagner - Ben Baker West Michigan Bass 0
Day 1: 5 14-04 Total: 5 14-04
26. Joey Solomon - Daniel Taylor Morristown Marine 0
Day 1: 5 14-02 Total: 5 14-02
26. Shawn Williams - Shane Williams Ozark Mountain Team Trail 0
Day 1: 5 14-02 Total: 5 14-02
28. Brian Adamson - Ryan Lloyd Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 5 14-00 Total: 5 14-00
29. Bobby Albert - Robert Cowan Ozark Mtn Team Trail 0
Day 1: 5 13-08 Total: 5 13-08
29. Tyler Williams - Denis Carrier Skowhegan High School 0
Day 1: 5 13-08 Total: 5 13-08
31. Shane Howell - Milton Adams 3F Tournaments 0
Day 1: 5 13-07 Total: 5 13-07
32. Dustin Neat - Mark Wethington NTBA 0
Day 1: 5 13-00 Total: 5 13-00
33. Jeff Lewis - Fredrick Adkins Morristown Marine 0
Day 1: 5 12-15 Total: 5 12-15
34. Brad Jelinek - Brock Reinkemeyer Joe bass team trail 0
Day 1: 5 12-12 Total: 5 12-12
35. Ryan Fingleton - Ryan Hubler West Michigan Bass 0
Day 1: 5 12-11 Total: 5 12-11
35. Dave Frost - Nick Manfredo FL BN Team Trail 0
Day 1: 5 12-11 Total: 5 12-11
37. John Kleinoeder - Robert Mccafferty Great Lakes Largemouth Series 0
Day 1: 5 12-09 Total: 5 12-09
37. Kelly Power - Mark Wiese Jr Ozark Mountain Team Trail 0
Day 1: 5 12-09 Total: 5 12-09
39. Mark Mott - Justin Mott Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 5 12-08 Total: 5 12-08
40. Danny Lavoie - Sammy Bailey Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 3 12-08 Total: 3 12-08
41. Doug Stamper - Ryan Davidson Anglers outpost NTB 0
Day 1: 5 12-07 Total: 5 12-07
41. Steve Wilson - Harold Rogers Tennessee team Bass nation 0
Day 1: 5 12-07 Total: 5 12-07
43. Bryan Dowdy - Kyle Lewellen Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 5 12-06 Total: 5 12-06
44. Clayton Wilcox - Zach Huyser West Michigan Bass 0
Day 1: 5 12-01 Total: 5 12-01
44. Owen Windham - Shawn Larance 0
Day 1: 5 12-01 Total: 5 12-01
46. Jeff Delk - Mike Combs NTBA 0
Day 1: 5 11-15 Total: 5 11-15
46. Dean Yamagata - Ryan Yamagata Nevada Bass Anglers 0
Day 1: 5 11-15 Total: 5 11-15
48. Steven White - Dakota Bellew 0
Day 1: 5 11-08 Total: 5 11-08
49. David Buday - Daryl Devries 2K Jigs Hair of the Dog-Weekend 0
Day 1: 5 11-08 Total: 5 11-08
50. Daniel Padgett - Brad Padgett TN Team Trail 0
Day 1: 5 11-06 Total: 5 11-06
51. Mark O'Brien - Brennon Mccord Anglers Choice 0
Day 1: 4 11-06 Total: 4 11-06
52. Dennis Chavez - Stephan Camden Nevada B.A.S.S. Nation Team Trai 0
Day 1: 5 11-02 Total: 5 11-02
53. Eddie Levin - Ryan Mallory OH BN Team Trail 0
Day 1: 5 10-15 Total: 5 10-15
53. Kyle Patrick - Jimmy Obrien Empire Team Trail 0
Day 1: 5 10-15 Total: 5 10-15
55. Garrett Seppala - Travis Salo NH Bass Nation 0
Day 1: 5 10-11 Total: 5 10-11
56. Rick Imler - Scott Newlon Great Lakes Largemouth Series 0
Day 1: 5 10-05 Total: 5 10-05
57. George Toalson - Tom Haynes Angler Nation 0
Day 1: 5 10-04 Total: 5 10-04
57. Kelly Warren - James Hadley Hadley and Warren 0
Day 1: 5 10-04 Total: 5 10-04
59. Jarrod Swift - Trenton Estridge Anglers Outpost NTBA 0
Day 1: 4 10-04 Total: 4 10-04
60. Don Depew - Brian Ruetz GLLS 0
Day 1: 5 10-03 Total: 5 10-03
61. Glenn Harrison - Rusty Darnell Joe Bass Team Trail 0
Day 1: 5 10-02 Total: 5 10-02
62. Brandon Ackerson - Brad Cook 0
Day 1: 5 10-00 Total: 5 10-00
62. Casey Majni - Brandon Willis Morristown marine team trail 0
Day 1: 5 10-00 Total: 5 10-00
62. Eric Niswonger - Kyle Radake U.S. Anglers Choice 0
Day 1: 5 10-00 Total: 5 10-00
65. Joey Stewart - Trent Mangum Coosa River Team Trail 0
Day 1: 3 10-00 Total: 3 10-00
66. Troy Buck - Charles Wieghat 3F 0
Day 1: 5 09-15 Total: 5 09-15
67. Kent Keys - David Campbell Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 4 09-15 Total: 4 09-15
68. Brandon Hawthorne - Tracy Hawthorne 0
Day 1: 5 09-14 Total: 5 09-14
69. Jayson Hooven - Matthew Keeble Lakeland Bassmasters 0
Day 1: 5 09-14 Total: 5 09-14
70. Joe Heath - Wayne Heath AOM NTBA 0
Day 1: 5 09-13 Total: 5 09-13
71. Ben Lind - Michael Hubbard 0
Day 1: 5 09-07 Total: 5 09-07
72. Brody Manley - Barrett Keel 0
Day 1: 5 09-05 Total: 5 09-05
73. Jack Tibbs - Duane Mock Shotgun Sports Supply 0
Day 1: 5 09-03 Total: 5 09-03
74. Jeffrey Kyle - Samuel Drake Florida Bass Nation 0
Day 1: 4 09-02 Total: 4 09-02
75. Mark Orsi - Aaron Orsi Massachusetts Sunday Classic Tea 0
Day 1: 5 09-01 Total: 5 09-01
76. Brian Bylotas - Brian Bylotas 0
Day 1: 5 09-00 Total: 5 09-00
76. William Woodall - Roger Foraker DE B.A.S.S. Nation 0
Day 1: 5 09-00 Total: 5 09-00
78. Kameron Harbin - Danny Ashley 0
Day 1: 5 08-12 Total: 5 08-12
78. John Richards - Brent Bowen NH Bass nation 0
Day 1: 5 08-12 Total: 5 08-12
80. Rob Messenger Jr - John Levesque NH Bass Nation 0
Day 1: 5 08-09 Total: 5 08-09
81. Jeffrey Brauneck - Fred Brauneck West Michigan Bass 0
Day 1: 5 08-08 Total: 5 08-08
82. Tyler Weaver - Luke Routh Joe bass team trail 0
Day 1: 4 08-08 Total: 4 08-08
83. Mark McCaig - Tim Hurst Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 4 08-07 Total: 4 08-07
83. Mike Polencheck - Brad Longerbone MN BASS Nation Team Trail 0
Day 1: 4 08-07 Total: 4 08-07
85. Shane Gray - Dustin Gray Media Bass Teams 0
Day 1: 5 08-05 Total: 5 08-05
85. Kevin Hagerman - Max Suter Cheat Lake Anglers 0
Day 1: 5 08-05 Total: 5 08-05
87. Paul Gohlke - Bill Mcquarrie Mi Bass Nation 0
Day 1: 5 08-04 Total: 5 08-04
88. Jamie Smith - Michael Rains Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 5 08-02 Total: 5 08-02
89. Todd Wilson - Mark Wilson Ntbf 0
Day 1: 4 08-01 Total: 4 08-01
90. Keith Kulow - Adam Arnold Iowa BN Team Trail 0
Day 1: 5 08-00 Total: 5 08-00
91. Micheal Henderson - Tim Cook West Michigan BASS 0
Day 1: 5 07-14 Total: 5 07-14
92. Steven Huegerich - Darrin Kirkland Iowa Bass Nation 0
Day 1: 5 07-13 Total: 5 07-13
93. Jerry Loveless - Jordan Loveless USA Bassin 0
Day 1: 5 07-10 Total: 5 07-10
94. Frank Favicchio - David Schultz IBN 0
Day 1: 5 07-05 Total: 5 07-05
95. Alan Fluharty - Chad Brinegar Benton's Ferry Bassmasters 0
Day 1: 5 07-04 Total: 5 07-04
95. Cody George - Josh Prince Tennessee Team Trail 0
Day 1: 5 07-04 Total: 5 07-04
97. Greg Glouse - Joe Anders Palmetto Boat Center 0
Day 1: 3 07-04 Total: 3 07-04
98. Jake Knight - Stephen Plumb Bayou Bassin League 0
Day 1: 5 07-03 Total: 5 07-03
99. Jeff Gilliam - Johnny Clark Alabama bassNation 0
Day 1: 4 07-01 Total: 4 07-01
100. Lucas Murphy - Nolan Hitt Grand Valley State University 0
Day 1: 5 07-00 Total: 5 07-00
100. Mike Rogers - Donnie Crist Joe Bass Team Trail 0
Day 1: 5 07-00 Total: 5 07-00
102. Mike Heffelfinger - Kyle Colone Michigan NTBA 0
Day 1: 3 06-15 Total: 3 06-15
102. Dale Teaney - Randy Alexander Morristown marine team trail 0
Day 1: 3 06-15 Total: 3 06-15
104. Michael Brewer - Jason Cannon Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 4 06-07 Total: 4 06-07
105. Terry Pryor - Terry Mann Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 4 06-03 Total: 4 06-03
106. Lanier Burton - Mike Keel Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 3 06-03 Total: 3 06-03
107. Neil Witkowski - Bobby May West Michigan bass 0
Day 1: 3 06-00 Total: 3 06-00
108. John Campbell - David Rogers Joe Bass Team Trail 0
Day 1: 4 05-14 Total: 4 05-14
109. Steven Weber - Sam Phillips joe bass team trail 0
Day 1: 3 05-12 Total: 3 05-12
110. James Vanderhoning II - Mark Anderson West Michigan Bass 0
Day 1: 5 05-08 Total: 5 05-08
111. Ryan Westgate - Donald Bulk West Michigan Bass 0
Day 1: 2 05-00 Total: 2 05-00
112. Michael Cass - Jacob Whitman Florida B.A.S.S. nation team 0
Day 1: 3 04-14 Total: 3 04-14
113. Hank Golden - Jeffery Lancaster Kowaliga Bassmaster 0
Day 1: 3 04-12 Total: 3 04-12
114. Lucas Mcdaniel - Joshua Norris 0
Day 1: 2 04-11 Total: 2 04-11
115. Rocky Carden - Jacob Delong Joe Bass Team Trail 0
Day 1: 4 04-09 Total: 4 04-09
116. Bill Mayo - Walton Roberts Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 4 04-08 Total: 4 04-08
117. Michael Jones - Jake Fordyce Pennsylvania Bass Nation 0
Day 1: 2 04-06 Total: 2 04-06
118. Brian Chandler - Jermey Jenks West Michigan Bass 0
Day 1: 3 04-04 Total: 3 04-04
119. Matthew Farrabee - Mark Mounts Keystone Bass Buddy Circuit 0
Day 1: 2 04-04 Total: 2 04-04
120. Jeffrey Cannon - Terry Tucker 0
Day 1: 3 04-02 Total: 3 04-02
121. Jared Winland - Brandan Becki Great Lakes Largemouth Series 0
Day 1: 2 03-14 Total: 2 03-14
122. Steve Barnes - AJ Barnes Jr 0
Day 1: 3 03-06 Total: 3 03-06
123. Jason Burroughs - Darren Ashley 0
Day 1: 1 03-05 Total: 1 03-05
124. Hunter Hamilton - Ty Ball Morristown Marine Team Trail 0
Day 1: 2 03-04 Total: 2 03-04
124. Chuck James - Brad James Chattanooga Bass Association 0
Day 1: 2 03-04 Total: 2 03-04
126. Russ Franklin - Jeremy Garrison Ozark mountain team trail 0
Day 1: 2 03-02 Total: 2 03-02
126. tim Manning - Cody Wilder Morristown Marine Team Trail 0
Day 1: 2 03-02 Total: 2 03-02
128. Tim Cooper - Bob Clements White River Bass Masters 0
Day 1: 2 03-00 Total: 2 03-00
129. Owen Hentschel - David Hentschel West Michigan Bass 0
Day 1: 2 02-14 Total: 2 02-14
130. Jamie Worth - Johnny Callison Jr Western PA Team Bass Series 0
Day 1: 1 02-14 Total: 1 02-14
131. Drew Blackwood - Terry Blackwood Sunflower team trail 0
Day 1: 2 02-11 Total: 2 02-11
132. Chris Lueg - Heath Stuart KC Team Tour 0
Day 1: 2 02-03 Total: 2 02-03
133. Mark Thompson - Tim Newberry Sr Joe Bass TT 0
Day 1: 1 01-15 Total: 1 01-15
134. Ray Huff - Katherine Row Cen Cal Elites 0
Day 1: 1 01-02 Total: 1 01-02
135. Ronald Belew - Derek Dace Joe Bass Team Trail 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Total: 0 00-00
135. Jeff Cherry - Stephen Rosson Coosa River Team Trail 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Total: 0 00-00
135. Anthony Goggins - Jeremy Headley Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Total: 0 00-00
135. Rick Johnston - Connor Cunningham Ozark Mountain TT 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Total: 0 00-00
135. Caleb Mcneal - Taylor Luna Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Total: 0 00-00
135. Jason Morgan - Craig Whittemore Jr Coosa River Team Trail 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Total: 0 00-00
135. Eric Morris - Ben Williamson Alabama Bass Trail 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Total: 0 00-00
135. Drew Sadler - Brian Richmond Bluegrass Bassmasters 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Total: 0 00-00

by AnglersChannel

Why you NEVER quit on your dreams, with ELITE Series Pro Darold Gleason

This week the boys are excited to welcome in one of the newest members of the 2021 Bassmaster Elite Series Class, Toyota Pro Darold Gleason to talk about his journey to the big show & what it means to be there in 2021. Chris goes off on Burger King & KG tells us why the new Toyota Series Division is & is not a Cherry Picker Division. Hit Play. Now.

by AnglersChannel

Minnesota Couple Wins New Bass Cat In B.A.S.S. Sweepstakes

Tom and Joan Campbell of Fairmont, Minn., winners of the Bassmaster “Fish with Hank Cherry” sweepstakes, receive their new Bass Cat Sabre with Mercury engine at Hannay’s Marine in Minneapolis.

Photo courtesy of Hannay’s Marine

December 8, 2020

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Tom and Joan Campbell of Fairmont, Minn., have spent their lives on the water, and the new Bass Cat Sabre FTD with Mercury 150 Pro XS that they won as part of Bassmaster's “Fish with Hank Cherry” sweepstakes will open up new fisheries to these avid anglers.

“We've been fishing all our lives and were raised on lakes in Minnesota,” said Joan Campbell. “While we normally fish here in Minnesota and are planning a trip to Devils Lake, N.D., we dream of fishing in Kentucky or Arkansas; they seem to have bigger bass!”

In addition to the Bass Cat boat with Mercury engine, the Campbells won a prize package valued at $52,500 that includes a Garmin Panoptix LiveScope, Power-Pole $500 gift certificate and apparel, assorted Abu Garcia Rods and Berkley Baits, tackle from Picasso Lures, gear and tackle from Bass Mafia and JB Langley, T-H Marine G-Force Conservation Cull System Gen 2 and a $150 gift card from Elite Angler, as well as gear and apparel from Great Outdoors and Warrior’s Journey.

“I'm very proud that my sponsors and supporters put together such an incredible prize pack for this sweepstakes,” said Bassmaster Elite Series angler Hank Cherry, who won the 2020 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk.

The sweepstakes had more than 650,000 entries. The Campbells, who currently fish out of a 1986 Crestliner, were particularly excited to win and are eager to get their new Bass Cat out on the water.

“Winning this boat is my husband’s dream come true,” said Joan.

Joan credits her grandfather with fostering her love of fishing, something she and her husband are continuing. “My grandfather started me fishing probably before I could walk, so it’s always been part of our lives. Now that our four kids are grown, we take the grandkids with us. All the granddaughters enjoy fishing with us.”

For more information on current sweepstakes, including the Bassmaster Weekly Winter Giveaway, visit Bassmaster.com/current-sweepstakes.

by AnglersChannel

Grundéns Invests in Bass Fishing By Partnering with Major League Fishing

Iconic Fishing Brand also Expands Ambassador Team to Five Anglers

TULSA, Okla. (Dec. 8, 2020) – Grundéns, producer of the world’s leading fishing apparel and footwear, today announces that it has partnered with Major League Fishing (MLF) to become the official footwear sponsor of the Bass Pro Tour and MLF BIG5 circuits. Additionally, the brand has signed MLF pros Skeet Reese, Bradley Roy, Adrian Avena, and Gerald Spohrer to the Grundéns ambassador team. These four anglers join Todd Kline in wearing Grundéns footwear and apparel exclusively in 2021.

“Bass fishing’s popularity is no secret and we’re ready to have a significant presence in it,” says Grundéns CEO David Mellon. “Grundéns is best known for protecting fisherman and anglers from the elements. ‘We Are Fishing’ is our motto and we’re always aiming to be the most trusted brand in fishing. In particular, our footwear lineup has expanded significantly in the last few years and by partnering with MLF to become the official footwear sponsor of the Bass Pro Tour and the Big5 series, we’ll get it in front of a lot more anglers. Having Skeet, Todd, Bradley, Adrian, and Gerald wearing our footwear and apparel is a testament to the utility and effectiveness of our products in the environments these guys fish year-round.”

“Many tournament anglers in MLF and the MLF BIG5 circuits have started to rely on Grundéns footwear to keep their feet comfortable when they are on the water and make their fishing experience more enjoyable,” says Jim Wilburn, MLF President and CEO. “Grundéns is a natural fit with MLF and our BIG5 and we are very excited to add them to our sponsorship lineup.”

Skeet Reese is a 10-time event winner and one of only a small handful of anglers to win both the Bassmaster Classic and the Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year. The Northern California native is one of the top five tournament money-winners of all time, serves on the MLF angler advisory board and runs numerous youth camps throughout the year to enable the next generation of anglers to grow their skills.

Kentucky-based pro Bradley Roy has fished professionally since 2010, when he was the youngest angler to fish in an Elite Series event at only 19 years old. Since then, Bradley has collected 11 Top-10 and 22 Top-20 finishes in his professional career. He also runs several high school tournaments each year in Kentucky that draw more than 200 high school teams and hosts annual benefit tournaments to provide financial assistance to U.S. military service personnel.

Gerald Spohrer, based in Gonzales, Louisiana, is set to enter his fifth season as a tour-level pro. He has recorded eight Top-10 and 13 Top-20 finishes in his career, yielding more than $230,000 in winnings. When not traveling and competing professionally, Gerald also fishes commercially and chases the Louisiana bayous’ redfish and speckled trout.

New Jersey native Adrian Avena has collected 30 Top-10 finishes and more than $600,000 in career winnings in nine years on the professional tours. He is a commercial captain and owns Jersey Boy Charters, along with working as a commercial conch fisherman. Adrian also competed in and won the Big Fish Division of the 2020 White Marlin Open, the world’s largest billfish tournament.

Todd Kline turned his surfing passion into a profession at the age of 18 and made a living surfing for seven years, competing around the world and achieving four World Qualifying Event Wins. Today, Todd loves competing in bass-fishing tournaments and has racked up 11 Top-10 finishes and four wins on multiple FLW circuits.

Grundéns will also be the presenting sponsor of the MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit event on Lake Eufaula, May 13-16 in Eufaula, Alabama.

The Grundéns footwear collection was designed to provide anglers with comfortable performance driven footwear options that will outlast the longest days on the water. By prioritizing comfort and traction across several different styles, the entire collection delivers noticeable shock resistance and excellent grip on wet surfaces to keep anglers standing upright on deck all day long.

by AnglersChannel

Mercury earns tenth consecutive Green Masters designation

FOND DU LAC, Wis. (Dec. 8, 2020) — For the tenth consecutive year, Mercury Marine^® has earned a Green Masters designation from the Wisconsin Sustainable Business Council (WSBC). The council presented the award today during its two‑day annual conference, which is an online event this year. As it has done in the previous nine years, Mercury achieved a score within the top 20% of all applicants to earn the designation.

The Green Masters Program measures companies on a broad range of sustainability categories ranging from energy and water conservation to waste management, community outreach, and education. In addition, companies are evaluated in the contexts of transportation, supply chain, workforce, and governance.

“We are honored to earn a Green Masters designation for the tenth consecutive year. This is especially gratifying considering how the bar is raised every year, making each successive year’s designation an even greater accomplishment,” said Mercury Marine President Chris Drees.

WSBC’s Green Masters Program requires applicants to cite sustainable business practices and initiatives undertaken in the past year, and to show improvement over previous years.

In 2020, Mercury continued to expand its global efforts to improve the energy efficiency and eco‑friendliness of its manufacturing operations. Initiatives included modernization of HVAC and lighting systems, containment of compressed‑air systems, optimization of power on/off cycles for equipment and facilities, redirection of manufacturing‑generated heat for multiple purposes, and enhancement of facilities design to include natural lighting and passive heating. The company also expanded its recycling and reuse of materials and water used in manufacturing.

In the past year, the company manufactured engines that have better fuel efficiency and lower emissions than ever before. Thus, with each sale of a new Mercury engine to replace a prior‑generation engine, there is an improvement to the environment.

At the beginning of the year, employees at Mercury's world headquarters in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, participated in a series of LED lighting fairs, purchasing approximately 8,000 energy‑efficient LED bulbs for their homes. Collectively, their purchases resulted in an environmental improvement roughly equivalent to removing 76 cars from the road each year.

Shortly after, when the COVID‑19 pandemic struck in the US, Mercury rose to the challenge of engaging employees in sustainable activities while observing protocols to discourage the spread of the virus. The company provided advice on home‑office sustainability to the large proportion of employees who rapidly shifted their work location to their homes. Mercury also conducted a successful food‑drive and electronics‑recycling event, as well as an Adopt‑A‑Highway cleanup effort, with participants wearing face coverings and maintaining social distance.

Significantly, in 2020 Mercury also initiated plans to expand its commitment to derive more energy from renewable sources, thereby setting the stage for advancements in sustainability in 2021 and beyond.

See Mercury's Sustainability Report and learn more about its sustainability initiatives at www.MercuryMarine.com/en/us/land/sustainability.

by AnglersChannel

Carson Wins Final Bassmaster Eastern Open Of The Season On Lay Lake

Keith Carson of DeBary, Fla., has won the Basspro.com Bassmaster Eastern Open at Lay Lake with a three-day total of 47 pounds, 1 ounce.

Photo by Andy Crawford/B.A.S.S.

December 5, 2020

COLUMBIANA, Ala. — Keith Carson had never seen Lay Lake before this week, but leveraging two familiar features allowed the Florida pro to win the Basspro.com Bassmaster Eastern Open with a three-day total of 47 pounds, 1 ounce.

Carson placed second on Day 1 with 16-10 and then moved into the lead after catching the event’s heaviest bag — 18-10 — in the second round. On Saturday, he added 11-13 and won the top prize of $38,783 and a berth in the 2021 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk scheduled for March 19-21 on Lake Ray Roberts.

Carson claimed his first Bassmaster win by fishing similarly to the way he fishes on his home waters.

“I was fishing grasslines near steeper banks up the river in front of the (Gaston) steam plant and about 2 miles north of the power plant,” Carson said. “I grew up fishing the St. Johns River and I’m very familiar with current.”

Working with the current created by Alabama Power Company’s release schedule from the Logan Martin Dam, Carson was able to keep himself in front of active fish most of the day. Discharge releases from the steam plant also helped his cause.

Carson pointed out that the inherently disjointed fall transition, complicated by a cold front that brought significant weather changes — partly cloudy, to rainy, to clear and bright — made consistency tough.

“I knew that whoever would grind the hardest would win,” he said. “There wasn’t any pattern, but there was one bait that I caught all my fish on. I used a Berkley Frittside 5 crankbait in the ghost morning dawn color.

“Coming here in December and not expecting a huge weight to blow this away, I said, ‘I’ll throw this because I’m going for 2- and 3-pounders.’ But I caught a 6, a 7 and lots of 3-pounders. I probably caught 30 fish today. It’s just an amazing bait.”

Carson said the bass responded best to a fast retrieve. He typically cranks with a 5.4:1 gear ratio, but he switched to a 6.6:1.

Making the right presentations got the ball rolling quickly Saturday. The final takeoff was delayed an hour and a half due to fog, but Carson didn’t take long to fill his limit.

“I had most of my weight in the first hour after takeoff,” he said. “I think they just bit that first hour after the fog cleared, but then they shut down.

“I just kept running water and kept hitting stuff and I made sure that I stayed in high-percentage areas, so whenever they did bite, I would be in a good area. I did make one cull in the last hour. I let go of a 1-pounder for a 2 1/2.”

Day 1 leader Jacob Walker kept himself near the top all week and finished second with 42-11. The pro from Alabaster, Ala., caught the tournament’s second-largest bag — 17-4 — on Day 1, added 13-0 on Day 2 and wrapped up with 12-7 Saturday.

“I’m a grass fisherman, but I knew it would get pounded in practice, so I’d have to have something else to lean on,” Walker said.

Walker caught his fish by swimming a 5/8-ounce white jig with a white Zoom Z-Craw trailer around grass and flipping matted vegetation with a Texas rig. His Texas-rig presentation consisted of a 3/4-ounce pegged weight and either a white Reaction Innovations Sweet Beaver or a white Strike King Rage Bug.

Clint Miller of Jemison, Ala., finished third with 41-7. Miller placed third on Day 1 with 16-3 and gained a spot by adding a second-round limit of 15-10. After scoring kickers in the 6-pound range both of the first two days, Miller couldn’t find a big Saturday catch and weighed a limit of only 9-10.

Miller caught all of his bass on a 1/4-ounce shaky head with a 6-inch green pumpkin finesse worm. He spent most of Championship Saturday fishing particular sweet spots along docks and seawalls.

Carson won the $750 Phoenix Boats Big Bass award for his 7-3 largemouth.

Jay Przekurat of Stevens Point, Wis., won the co-angler division with 20-12. After placing 40th on Day 1 with 4-11, Przekurat added 10-13 on Day 2 and moved into the lead. A final-round limit of 5-4 allowed him to take the top prize of $15,187.

Przekurat caught his Day 3 bass on a drop shot, a shaky head and a Carolina rig.

Michael Elrod of Cropwell, Ala., won the $250 Phoenix Boats Big Bass award among co-anglers with a 4-5.

Patrick Walters of Summerville, S.C., won the Eastern Open points race with 765, followed by Joshua Stracner (752), Pat Schlapper (728), Justin Atkins (711) and Scott Martin (696).

Bryan New of Belmont, N.C., won the Falcon Rods Bassmaster Opens Angler of the Year title with 1,329 points. Jeff Queen of Catawba, N.C., won the Co-Angler of the Year title with 1,306.

Twelve Opens anglers received invitations to fish the 2021 Bassmaster Elite Series. Four each came from the overall standings, the Eastern Opens and the Central Opens. Where anglers were double-qualified via the overall standings and either of the regional divisions’ standings, the invitations moved down the standings lists accordingly.

Invitees include: Bryan New, Justin Atkins, Matt Robertson and Marc Frazier from the overall standings; Jason Christie, Greg Hackney, Kenta Kimura and Darold Gleason from the Central Opens; Stracner, Martin, Justin Hamner and KJ Queen from the Eastern Opens. Schlapper has already earned an Elite Series invitation as winner of the TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Championship.

2020 Basspro.com Bassmaster Eastern Open at Lay Lake 12/3-12/5
Lay Lake, Shelby County AL.
(BOATER) Standings Day 3

Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$

1. Keith Carson Debary, FL 15 47-01 200 $38,783.00
Day 1: 5 16-10 Day 2: 5 18-10 Day 3: 5 11-13
2. Jacob Walker Alabaster, AL 15 42-11 199 $18,473.00
Day 1: 5 17-04 Day 2: 5 13-00 Day 3: 5 12-07
3. Clint Miller Jemison, AL 15 41-07 198 $13,040.00
Day 1: 5 16-03 Day 2: 5 15-10 Day 3: 5 09-10
4. Teb Jones Hattiesburg, MS 15 38-15 197 $10,867.00
Day 1: 5 12-08 Day 2: 5 15-07 Day 3: 5 11-00
5. Alex Sherrill Clanton, AL 14 38-14 196 $9,454.00
Day 1: 5 13-01 Day 2: 5 14-13 Day 3: 4 11-00
6. Chris Payne Vance, AL 15 38-01 195 $8,693.00
Day 1: 5 12-10 Day 2: 5 16-01 Day 3: 5 09-06
7. Samuel Fish Calera, AL 15 37-13 194 $8,650.00
Day 1: 5 15-08 Day 2: 5 11-11 Day 3: 5 10-10
8. Adam Neu Forestville, WI 15 37-02 193 $7,607.00
Day 1: 5 13-04 Day 2: 5 15-08 Day 3: 5 08-06
9. Joey Nania Cropwell, AL 15 36-07 192 $5,977.00
Day 1: 5 13-09 Day 2: 5 12-15 Day 3: 5 09-15
10. KJ Queen Catawba, NC 15 35-15 191 $4,890.00
Day 1: 5 13-09 Day 2: 5 13-01 Day 3: 5 09-05
11. Scott Pellegrin Chippewa Falls, WI 15 33-03 190 $4,347.00
Day 1: 5 12-09 Day 2: 5 14-05 Day 3: 5 06-05
12. Keith Poche Pike Road, AL 8 26-05 189 $3,803.00
Day 1: 3 11-12 Day 2: 5 14-09 Day 3: 0 00-00

by AnglersChannel

Ohio’s Malone Wins Toyota Series Championship on Lake Cumberland

Ironton Pro Wins by 1-pound, 3-ounce Margin, Takes Home Top Prize of $235,000

BURNSIDE, Ky. (Dec. 5, 2020) – Pro Chris Malone of Ironton, Ohio, brought a five-bass limit to the stage weighing 12 pounds, 5 ounces, Saturday to claim the title of Toyota Series Champion at the 2020 Toyota Series Championship on Lake Cumberland. Malone, with a three-day total of 15 bass for 41 pounds even, won by a 1-pound, 3-ounce margin over second-place angler Cameron Lineback of Mount Airy, North Carolina, who caught a three-day total of 15 bass weighing 39-13. Malone held steady in third place the first two days of competition before shooting to first on Saturday to walk away with $235,000, including the lucrative $35,000 FLW PHOENIX Bonus.

Saturday’s final weigh-in marked the finale of the 2020 Toyota Series season, which featured thousands of anglers from across the globe.

“I opened a boat shop in 2010 and took some time off from competitive fishing, but when I saw the championship was at Lake Cumberland again, I knew I needed to fish the Toyota Series,” said Malone. “I wanted to see if I could compete because I haven’t competed against these guys for a long time.

“I really thought Ryan Davidson was going to win this tournament – he’s the best winter fisherman I’ve ever fished with. I told him that if I actually won, I would pay his 2021 entry fees (to the Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit). That $30,000 is a drop in the bucket compared to how I feel right now.

“I’m on a high you can’t come off of – I honestly wasn’t going to fish next year, but how do you not fish after you just won a quarter of a million dollars?”

Malone said he caught pretty much all of his fish this week on the main lake with main-river channel swings.

“The fish are super shallow, but they are on top of 25 to 40 foot of water in some of these places,” Malone said. “I’ve been catching them cranking and on a ½-ounce Big Daddy Baits tail-spinner. After getting six or seven keepers, I picked up a big bull shad and tried to catch big ones for the last two hours. I used a G. Loomis IMX Pro rod with a Shimano Curado reel with 15-pound Seaguar InvizX line. I weighed in three on the RkCrawler and 12 on the spinner.

“I went for broke – I went to win,” said Malone.

The top 10 pros at the 2020 Toyota Series Championship on Lake Cumberland finished:

1^st: Chris Malone, Ironton, Ohio, 15 bass, 41-0, $237,500

2^nd: Cameron Lineback, Mount Airy, N.C., 15 bass, 39-13, $40,000

3^rd: Drew Boggs, Lebanon, Tenn., 15 bass, 37-4, $30,000

4^th: Dakota Ebare, Denham Springs, La., 12 bass, 35-11, $25,000

5^th: Eric Olliverson, Lampe, Mo., 13 bass, 34-15, $20,000

6^th: Kurt Mitchell, Milford, Del., 14 bass, 34-12, $14,000

7^th: Michael Caruso, Peoria, Ariz., 12 bass, 32-0, $13,000

8^th: Trent Palmer, Cumming, Ga., 12 bass, 28-15, $12,000

9^th: Hunter Eubanks, Inman, S.C., 11 bass, 28-7, $11,000

10^th: Andrew Loberg, Rocklin, Calif., 11 bass, 28-4, $10,000

Full results for the entire field can be found at FLWFishing.com.

Co-angler Matt Greene of Ventura, California, weighed in three bass totaling 10 pounds, 3 ounces, Saturday to win the top co-angler prize of a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard engine, with a three-day total of nine bass weighing 24-6. Second place went to co-angler Mario Riojas of Blanchard, Oklahoma, who weighed in a three-day total of nine bass weighing 19-11, good for $12,500.

The top 10 co-anglers at the 2020 Toyota Series Championship on Lake Cumberland finished:

1^st: Matt Greene, Ventura, Calif., nine bass, 24-6, Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard

2^nd: Mario Riojas, Blanchard, Okla., nine bass, 19-11, $12,500

3^rd: Travis Otto, Jefferson City, Mo., nine bass, 17-7, $10,000

4^th: Landon Huff, Madison, Ga., nine bass, 16-3, $7,500

5^th: Larry Elliott, Enoree, S.C., eight bass, 15-4, $5,000

6^th: Justin Kimmel, Athens, Ga., five bass, 14-0, $4,000

7^th: Don White, Columbus, Miss., six bass, 13-15, $3,500

8^th: Mason Chapman, Lake Quivira, Kan., eight bass, 13-11, $3,000

9^th: Morgan Brown, Spanish Fort, Ala., six bass, 13-0, $3,000

10^th: Jarvis Ellis, Albany, Ga., four bass, 12-3, $2,000

The 2020 Toyota Series Championship at Lake Cumberland was hosted by the Somerset Tourist & Convention Commission and the Burnside Tourism Commission. The three-day, no entry fee tournament featured a field of 221 boaters and co-anglers from each of the eight Toyota Series divisions and tournament winners, the highest finishing boater and co-angler from each regional at the All-American, the College Fishing National Champions and second-place team, and the top pros and co-anglers from the FLW International Division.

by AnglersChannel

Louisiana’s Ebare Leads Day Two of Toyota Series Championship on Lake Cumberland

Southwestern Division Pro Leads by 9-Ounce Margin in Competition for $235,000

BURNSIDE, Ky. (Dec. 4, 2020) – Pro Dakota Ebare of Denham Springs, Louisiana, crossed the stage Friday with a five-bass limit weighing 16 pounds, 12 ounces, for a two-day total of 10 bass weighing 30 pounds, 13 ounces to lead after Day Two of the Toyota Series Championship on Lake Cumberland, in Burnside, Kentucky. Ebare now holds a 9-ounce lead over pro Cameron Lineback of Mount Airy, North Carolinawho weighed a two-day total of 10 bass for 29-9 – in the championship event that featured 221 boaters and co-anglers competing a top cash award of up to $235,000 on the pro side, and the keys to a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard for co-anglers.

The field is now cut to just the top 10 boaters and co-anglers for the final day of competition in the no-entry fee Toyota Series Championship, hosted by the Somerset Tourist & Convention Commission and the Burnside Tourism Commission, that featured the top 25 pros and top 25 co-anglers from each of the eight Toyota Series divisions and tournament winners, the highest finishing boater and co-angler from each regional at the All-American, the College Fishing National Champions and second-place team, and the top pros and co-anglers from the FLW International Division.

Ebare is guaranteed the $10,000 bonus awarded to the highest finishing angler from each division and is the only Southwestern Division angler to make the top 10.

“I caught about the same amount of fish today as I did on Day One, but today the quality showed up,” said Ebare. “I was going through the motions the first day I arrived and had a tactic in mind that worked at Dale Hollow, but it just wasn’t happening here on Lake Cumberland. I started trying to find something else and ran into a little pattern that I’ve expanded every day of practice.

“The practice day that turned nasty and cold, with high winds and snow – that was a good day for me. They were biting good and I was able to dial in where they were at, which keyed me in on the pattern.”

That’s the pattern Ebare said he’s been running the last two days and it seems to be working.

“I’m extremely blessed and thankful. God has blessed me so much all year. I’ve had some ups and downs, but this is a humbling sport and that’s just part of it. You have to roll with the punches and keep going.

“To win $235,000 would be a lot of money. Winning this championship would be something special and a great way to cap off the year.”

The top 10 pros that advanced to the final day of competition on Lake Cumberland are:

1^st: Dakota Ebare, Denham Springs, La., 10 bass, 30-13

2^nd: Cameron Lineback, Mount Airy, N.C., 10 bass, 29-9

3^rd: Chris Malone, Ironton, Ohio, 10 bass, 28-11

4^th: Andrew Loberg, Rocklin, Calif., 10 bass, 26-1

5^th: Michael Caruso, Peoria, Ariz., 10 bass, 26-0

6^th: Eric Olliverson, Lampe, Mo., 10 bass, 25-15

7^th: Drew Boggs, Lebanon, Tenn., 10 bass, 25-11

8^th: Hunter Eubanks, Inman, S.C., 10 bass, 24-14

9^th: Trent Palmer, Cumming, Ga., 10 bass, 24-10

10^th: Kurt Mitchell, Milford, Del., 10 bass, 24-8

Full results for the entire field can be found at FLWFishing.com.

Travis Otto of Jefferson City, Missouri, shot to the lead in the co-angler division Friday with four bass weighing 6 pounds, 1 ounce. His two-day total of eight bass weighing 15-5 gives him a 9-ounce lead over Mario Riojas of Blanchard, Oklahoma, who has weighed seven bass totaling 14-12, good for second place. Co-anglers are competing for a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard.

The top 10 co-anglers that will fish the final day on Lake Cumberland are:

1^st: Travis Otto, Jefferson City, Mo., eight bass, 15-5

2^nd: Mario Riojas, Blanchard, Okla., seven bass, 14-12

3^rd: Matt Greene, Ventura, Calif., six bass, 14-3

4^th: Justin Kimmel, Athens, Ga., five bass, 14-0

5^th: Don White, Columbus, Miss., six bass, 13-15

6^th: Larry Elliott, Enoree, S.C., seven bass, 13-6

7^th: Morgan Brown, Spanish Fort, Ala., six bass, 13-0

8^th: Mason Chapman, Lake Quivira, Kan., seven bass, 12-12

9^th: Landon Huff, Madison, Ga., seven bass, 12-11

10^th: Jarvis Ellis, Albany, Ga., four bass, 12-3

The final 10 boaters and co-anglers will take off Saturday from General Burnside Island State Park, located at 8801 S. Highway 27 in Burnside, at 7:30 a.m. EST. Saturday’s Championship weigh-in will be held at the State Park beginning at 2:30 p.m. Attendance is limited to competing anglers, family and essential staff. Fans are encouraged to follow the event online through the “FLW Live” weigh-in broadcasts and daily coverage at FLWFishing.com.

For complete details and updated information visitFLWFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the Toyota Series on FLW’s social media outlets at Facebook,Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.L

by AnglersChannel

Big Bite Helps Carson To Lead At Bassmaster Eastern Open On Lay Lake

Keith Carson of DeBary, Fla., is leading after Day 2 of the Basspro.com Bassmaster Eastern Open at Lay Lake with a two-day total of 35 pounds, 4 ounces.

Photo by Chris Mitchell/B.A.S.S.

December 4, 2020

COLUMBIANA, Ala. — Keith Carson’s positive attitude was put to the test Friday, but perseverance paid big dividends as the Florida angler took the Day 2 lead in the Basspro.com Bassmaster Eastern Open at Lay Lake with 35 pounds, 4 ounces.

After placing second on Thursday with a limit of 16-10, Carson added 18-10 Friday — the tournament’s heaviest catch. He anchored his Day 2 limit with a big 7-3 largemouth.

Making his first appearance at Lay Lake, Carson followed his Day 1 performance by saying he would enter Friday’s second round focused on enjoying the day and keeping an open mind. After a tough start, he admitted he was starting to doubt that perspective.

“Yesterday, I had all my fish by 9:36; today, at 9 a.m., I didn’t have a single fish in the boat,” he said. “I started to get a little worried. I was like, ‘I guess I’m just not going to catch ’em today.’

“I said, ‘I still have a lot of time,’ so I just kept moving. I fished a particular bank, I hit a log and caught a 3 1/2-pounder. Then, I went up about 20 yards and caught that 7-3. I had over 10 pounds with two fish, so I was like, ‘Okay, now let’s get the ball rolling.’”

Carson caught his early fish on a deeper grass edge with a Berkley Frittside 5 crankbait. After that, his day turned into a grind with sporadic productivity.

“I never really ran into a good group of fish like I did yesterday,” he said. “I would go like two hours without a bite, and then I’d catch two or three in a half-hour period. Then I’d go another two hours without a bite, and then I’d catch a few.”

Carson said his day ended with a last-minute flurry that gave him the weight he needed to take the top spot.

“I had no time left because I was 30 minutes upriver and I made it back just in time,” he said. “I made three culls on back-to-back casts. I pulled up on a point and I caught two good largemouth and a spot and I culled out all of my smaller ones.”

After his early grass bite fizzled, Carson targeted rock, bridges and wood. His late-day culls came off a large stump near a grass edge in about 12 feet of water. He caught them on a Texas-rigged Berkley Havoc Pit Boss in the watermelon candy color.

“Today, it was just about letting it happen and believing,” he said. “It was my first time here, so I put in four and a half days of practice.”

Clint Miller of Jemison, Ala., moved into second place with 31-13. After placing third on Day 1 with 16-3, he gained a spot with a Friday limit of 15-10.

After catching his Day 1 fish around shallow brushpiles, he had to move off the bank and fish a 1/4-ounce shaky head with a green pumpkin worm around rock and wood in 12 to 15 feet.

“I ground it out all day and finally got 12 pounds in the boat,” Miller said. “At 2 o’clock, I went to a spot where I’d caught largemouth, but never a big one.

“It was just a slick bank with good bottom in 15 feet. I fired in there, set the hook and caught almost 6 pounds.”

Day 1 leader Jacob Walker slipped to third with 30-4. The pro from Alabaster, Ala., struggled with more fishing pressure in his key areas today and ended up adding 13-0 to the 17-4 he weighed Thursday.

“I still felt like I was around the fish I was around yesterday,” Walker said. “I had the opportunities to have a bag like I had yesterday, but a lot of the guys who fished downriver yesterday decided to come up the river today.”

Walker caught his fish by pitching a jig and throwing a spinnerbait around shallow wood.

Carson is in the lead for Phoenix Boats Big Bass honors with his 7-3.

Jay Przekurat of Stevens Point, Wis., leads the co-angler division with 15-8. Adding a big Day 2 limit of 10-13 to his first-round score of 4-11 moved him up from 40th place.

“It was when they had the water running in the first hour or two hours today when I caught my fish,” he said. “You’d get bit like once every 45 minutes, but it was a big fish. I capitalized on three big bites and that was pretty much it.”

Przekurat caught a limit comprised entirely of spotted bass on a jerkbait, swimbait and a jig.

Michael Elrod of Cropwell, Ala., holds the Phoenix Boats Big Bass lead among co-anglers with a 4-5.

Patrick Walters of Summerville, S.C., leads the Eastern Open standings with 765 points, followed by Joshua Stracner (752), Pat Schlapper (728), Justin Atkins (711) and Scott Martin (696).

Bryan New of Belmont, N.C., leads the Falcon Rods Bassmaster Opens Angler of the Year standings with 1,329 points.

Saturday’s takeoff is scheduled for 6:15 a.m. CT from Beeswax Park. The weigh-in will be held at the park at 2:15 p.m.

2020 Basspro.com Bassmaster Eastern Open at Lay Lake 12/3-12/5
Lay Lake, Shelby County AL.
(BOATER) Standings Day 2

Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$

1. Keith Carson Debary, FL 10 35-04 200
Day 1: 5 16-10 Day 2: 5 18-10
2. Clint Miller Jemison, AL 10 31-13 199
Day 1: 5 16-03 Day 2: 5 15-10
3. Jacob Walker Alabaster, AL 10 30-04 198
Day 1: 5 17-04 Day 2: 5 13-00
4. Adam Neu Forestville, WI 10 28-12 197
Day 1: 5 13-04 Day 2: 5 15-08
5. Chris Payne Vance, AL 10 28-11 196
Day 1: 5 12-10 Day 2: 5 16-01
6. Teb Jones Hattiesburg, MS 10 27-15 195
Day 1: 5 12-08 Day 2: 5 15-07
7. Alex Sherrill Clanton, AL 10 27-14 194
Day 1: 5 13-01 Day 2: 5 14-13
8. Samuel Fish Calera, AL 10 27-03 193
Day 1: 5 15-08 Day 2: 5 11-11
9. Scott Pellegrin Chippewa Falls, WI 10 26-14 192
Day 1: 5 12-09 Day 2: 5 14-05
10. KJ Queen Catawba, NC 10 26-10 191
Day 1: 5 13-09 Day 2: 5 13-01
11. Joey Nania Cropwell, AL 10 26-08 190
Day 1: 5 13-09 Day 2: 5 12-15
12. Keith Poche Pike Road, AL 8 26-05 189
Day 1: 3 11-12 Day 2: 5 14-09
13. Jason Burroughs Hodges, SC 10 26-05 188 $2,988.00
Day 1: 5 13-02 Day 2: 5 13-03
14. Wyatt Burkhalter Coker, AL 10 26-03 187 $2,988.00
Day 1: 5 16-02 Day 2: 5 10-01
15. Cole Drummond Effingham, SC 10 25-12 186 $2,988.00
Day 1: 5 12-06 Day 2: 5 13-06
16. Justin Atkins Florence, AL 10 25-05 185 $2,988.00
Day 1: 5 13-04 Day 2: 5 12-01
17. Patrick Walters Summerville, SC 10 25-04 184 $2,988.00
Day 1: 5 10-13 Day 2: 5 14-07
18. Greg Mansfield Olathe, KS 10 25-00 183 $2,988.00
Day 1: 5 12-04 Day 2: 5 12-12
19. Jared Turnbloom Calera, AL 10 24-14 182 $2,988.00
Day 1: 5 15-05 Day 2: 5 09-09
20. Andy Chappell Warrior, AL 9 24-14 181 $2,988.00
Day 1: 5 13-15 Day 2: 4 10-15
21. Todd Castledine Nacogdoches, TX 10 24-13 180 $2,717.00
Day 1: 5 11-09 Day 2: 5 13-04
22. Bryan New Belmont, NC 10 24-05 179 $2,717.00
Day 1: 5 14-06 Day 2: 5 09-15
23. Pat Schlapper Eleva, WI 10 24-04 178 $2,717.00
Day 1: 5 11-08 Day 2: 5 12-12
24. Derek Lehtonen Woodruff, SC 10 24-02 177 $2,717.00
Day 1: 5 13-01 Day 2: 5 11-01
25. Harvey Horne Bella Vista, AR 10 24-00 176 $2,717.00
Day 1: 5 15-14 Day 2: 5 08-02
26. Caiden Sinclair Wilsonville, AL 10 23-14 175 $2,499.00
Day 1: 5 10-08 Day 2: 5 13-06
27. Barry Brandt Jr. Newport News, VA 10 23-13 174 $2,499.00
Day 1: 5 13-06 Day 2: 5 10-07
28. Kenta Kimura Osaka JAPAN 10 23-12 173 $2,499.00
Day 1: 5 11-10 Day 2: 5 12-02
29. Joshua Stracner Vandiver, AL 10 23-09 172 $2,499.00
Day 1: 5 09-08 Day 2: 5 14-01
30. Bo Hunter Gardendale, AL 10 23-09 171 $2,499.00
Day 1: 5 10-06 Day 2: 5 13-03
31. Matt Robertson Kuttawa, KY 10 23-07 170 $2,499.00
Day 1: 5 12-09 Day 2: 5 10-14
32. Matt Vanzant Sylacauga, AL 10 23-03 169 $2,499.00
Day 1: 5 14-09 Day 2: 5 08-10
33. Andy Wicker Pomaria, SC 10 23-01 168 $2,499.00
Day 1: 5 14-12 Day 2: 5 08-05
34. Randy Blaukat Joplin, MO 10 22-11 167 $2,499.00
Day 1: 5 11-01 Day 2: 5 11-10
35. Justin Hamner Northport, AL 10 22-09 166 $2,499.00
Day 1: 5 12-00 Day 2: 5 10-09
36. Randall Carter Maplesville, AL 10 22-09 165 $2,499.00
Day 1: 5 11-14 Day 2: 5 10-11
37. Denny Fiedler Wabasha, MN 10 22-08 164 $2,499.00
Day 1: 5 13-01 Day 2: 5 09-07
38. Brian Latimer Belton, SC 10 22-07 163 $2,499.00
Day 1: 5 13-11 Day 2: 5 08-12
39. Josh Herren Ashville, AL 10 22-06 162 $2,499.00
Day 1: 5 12-02 Day 2: 5 10-04
40. Cameron Smith Wareham, MA 10 22-05 161 $2,499.00
Day 1: 5 12-07 Day 2: 5 09-14
41. Alex Redwine Blue Ash, OH 10 22-02 160
Day 1: 5 11-00 Day 2: 5 11-02
42. Bobby Lane Jr. Lakeland, FL 10 21-14 159
Day 1: 5 07-02 Day 2: 5 14-12
43. Dustin Reneau Mckinney, TX 10 21-09 158
Day 1: 5 10-05 Day 2: 5 11-04
44. Tyler Ellis Battlefield, MO 10 21-08 157
Day 1: 5 09-03 Day 2: 5 12-05
45. Freddy Palmer Estill Springs, TN 10 21-06 156
Day 1: 5 12-11 Day 2: 5 08-11
46. Scott Martin Clewiston, FL 10 21-05 155
Day 1: 5 10-01 Day 2: 5 11-04
47. Shane Horton Wilsonville , AL 10 21-05 154
Day 1: 5 11-03 Day 2: 5 10-02
48. J T Russell Mccala, AL 10 21-05 153
Day 1: 5 10-07 Day 2: 5 10-14
49. Marc Frazier Newnan, GA 10 21-01 152
Day 1: 5 09-01 Day 2: 5 12-00
50. Trevor Prince Blue Ridge, GA 10 21-01 151
Day 1: 5 10-01 Day 2: 5 11-00
51. Bryce Matthews Olanta, SC 10 21-00 150
Day 1: 5 10-12 Day 2: 5 10-04
52. Charlie Hartley Grove City, OH 9 20-15 149
Day 1: 5 12-06 Day 2: 4 08-09
53. Matt Lee Bremen, AL 9 20-14 148
Day 1: 4 09-07 Day 2: 5 11-07
54. Jon Canada Helena, AL 8 20-13 147
Day 1: 5 14-04 Day 2: 3 06-09
55. Alex Wetherell Middletown, CT 10 20-13 146
Day 1: 5 09-04 Day 2: 5 11-09
56. Kenneth Malone Columbiana, AL 10 20-11 145
Day 1: 5 12-03 Day 2: 5 08-08
57. Greg Alexander Hebron, MD 10 20-11 144
Day 1: 5 10-10 Day 2: 5 10-01
58. Cody Detweiler Orlando, FL 10 20-05 143
Day 1: 5 10-11 Day 2: 5 09-10
59. Scott Canterbury Odenville, AL 10 20-02 142
Day 1: 5 11-00 Day 2: 5 09-02
60. Justin Hamner Foley, AL 10 20-02 141
Day 1: 5 09-14 Day 2: 5 10-04
61. Stephen Morella Townshend, VT 10 20-01 140
Day 1: 5 10-07 Day 2: 5 09-10
62. Spencer Peters Knoxville, TN 10 19-14 139
Day 1: 5 11-11 Day 2: 5 08-03
63. Dave Turner Crystal River, FL 10 19-10 138
Day 1: 5 09-11 Day 2: 5 09-15
64. Tyler Caton Clanton, AL 10 19-07 137
Day 1: 5 12-01 Day 2: 5 07-06
65. Daisuke Aoki Minamitsurugun Yamanash 10 19-07 136
Day 1: 5 09-10 Day 2: 5 09-13
66. Scott Siller Milwaukee, WI 10 19-05 135
Day 1: 5 10-09 Day 2: 5 08-12
67. Timmy Thompkins Myrtle Beach, SC 10 19-04 134
Day 1: 5 09-09 Day 2: 5 09-11
68. Joel Bowden Sylacauga, AL 10 19-00 133
Day 1: 5 09-05 Day 2: 5 09-11
69. JT Thompkins Myrtle Beach, SC 10 18-14 132
Day 1: 5 10-09 Day 2: 5 08-05
70. Zeke Gossett Pell City, AL 10 18-12 131
Day 1: 5 10-01 Day 2: 5 08-11
71. Hunter Sales Blaine, TN 10 18-10 130
Day 1: 5 07-13 Day 2: 5 10-13
72. Bill Weidler Helena, AL 8 18-08 129
Day 1: 5 13-14 Day 2: 3 04-10
73. Jarrett Brown Montevallo, AL 10 18-07 128
Day 1: 5 11-13 Day 2: 5 06-10
74. Jacob Foutz Charleston, TN 9 18-02 127
Day 1: 5 11-04 Day 2: 4 06-14
75. Andrew Upshaw Tulsa, OK 10 18-02 126
Day 1: 5 07-04 Day 2: 5 10-14
76. Henry Mcpherson Mountain Brk, AL 10 18-02 125
Day 1: 5 08-04 Day 2: 5 09-14
77. James Meers Rome, GA 9 18-01 124
Day 1: 5 12-14 Day 2: 4 05-03
78. Hall Hobbs Wilsonville, AL 10 17-15 123
Day 1: 5 08-11 Day 2: 5 09-04
79. Kyle Austin Ridgeville, SC 10 17-14 122
Day 1: 5 10-11 Day 2: 5 07-03
80. Whitney Stephens Waverly, OH 10 17-13 121
Day 1: 5 06-07 Day 2: 5 11-06
81. Jake Rossi Columbus, OH 10 17-12 120
Day 1: 5 07-09 Day 2: 5 10-03
82. Chad Smith Minnetonka, MN 10 17-11 119
Day 1: 5 10-12 Day 2: 5 06-15
83. Randy Elliott Severn, MD 10 17-09 118
Day 1: 5 09-09 Day 2: 5 08-00
84. Randy Huffman Charleston, WV 10 17-08 117
Day 1: 5 09-07 Day 2: 5 08-01
85. Chandler Stewart Waco, TX 10 17-05 116
Day 1: 5 10-13 Day 2: 5 06-08
86. Caleb Gibson Locust Grove, OK 10 17-01 115
Day 1: 5 09-01 Day 2: 5 08-00
87. Andy Hribar Lakeville, MN 10 17-00 114
Day 1: 5 10-14 Day 2: 5 06-02
88. Scott Patton Paris, TN 10 17-00 113
Day 1: 5 07-03 Day 2: 5 09-13
89. Josh Hubbard Braidwood, IL 8 16-15 112
Day 1: 5 10-10 Day 2: 3 06-05
90. Allen Brooks Canton, GA 10 16-14 111
Day 1: 5 08-06 Day 2: 5 08-08
91. Brandt Tumberg Moore, SC 10 16-09 110
Day 1: 5 06-15 Day 2: 5 09-10
92. Gregg Fogner Conway, SC 10 16-09 109
Day 1: 5 07-14 Day 2: 5 08-11
93. Parker Mott Winter Garden, FL 10 16-08 108
Day 1: 5 07-04 Day 2: 5 09-04
94. Connor Macdougall Bremerton, WA 10 16-07 107
Day 1: 5 06-05 Day 2: 5 10-02
95. Wesley Gore Clanton, AL 8 16-04 106
Day 1: 5 11-02 Day 2: 3 05-02
96. Garrett Dixon Citronelle, AL 10 16-03 105
Day 1: 5 10-13 Day 2: 5 05-06
97. Brandon Tallhamer Parkersburg, WV 10 15-15 104
Day 1: 5 08-13 Day 2: 5 07-02
98. Joe Thompson Clayton, GA 8 15-04 103
Day 1: 3 04-12 Day 2: 5 10-08
99. Jonathan Carter Glenburn, ME 10 15-04 102
Day 1: 5 07-15 Day 2: 5 07-05
100. Stephen Perry Pike Road, AL 7 15-04 101
Day 1: 3 07-14 Day 2: 4 07-06
101. David Parsons Dothan, AL 10 15-03 100
Day 1: 5 06-13 Day 2: 5 08-06
102. Mark Pappas Dandridge, TN 8 15-02 99
Day 1: 5 08-05 Day 2: 3 06-13
103. Matthew Mccarthy Marysville, OH 8 15-01 98
Day 1: 5 10-09 Day 2: 3 04-08
104. Cam Sterritt Newfields, NH 10 14-13 97
Day 1: 5 07-10 Day 2: 5 07-03
105. Carl Jocumsen Queensland TN AUSTRALIA 8 14-11 96
Day 1: 5 08-11 Day 2: 3 06-00
106. Bradley Hallman Norman, OK 10 14-09 95
Day 1: 5 07-09 Day 2: 5 07-00
107. Joel Willert Prior Lake, MN 8 14-07 94
Day 1: 3 03-15 Day 2: 5 10-08
108. Noah Godwin Clanton, AL 8 14-06 93
Day 1: 3 03-05 Day 2: 5 11-01
109. Lance Rose Pipe Creek, TX 8 14-03 92
Day 1: 5 09-14 Day 2: 3 04-05
110. Luke Plunkett Pinson, AL 7 14-01 91
Day 1: 3 04-10 Day 2: 4 09-07
111. Matt Mattingly Gravel Switch, KY 10 13-11 90
Day 1: 5 06-07 Day 2: 5 07-04
112. John Maner Falkville, AL 10 13-06 89
Day 1: 5 07-06 Day 2: 5 06-00
113. Andrew Thomasson Dublin, VA 5 12-13 88
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 5 12-13
114. Cole Dodson GARDENDALE, AL 7 12-11 87
Day 1: 2 02-02 Day 2: 5 10-09
115. Dustin Connell Clanton, AL 5 12-03 86
Day 1: 5 12-03 Day 2: 0 00-00
116. Trevor Topken Warwick, NY 7 11-12 85
Day 1: 2 04-12 Day 2: 5 07-00
117. Lance Owen Greer, SC 6 11-10 84
Day 1: 3 05-07 Day 2: 3 06-03
118. Kameron Harbin Abbeville, SC 9 11-09 83
Day 1: 5 05-07 Day 2: 4 06-02
119. Ken Iyobe Tokoname, Aichi JAPAN 5 11-06 82
Day 1: 2 04-03 Day 2: 3 07-03
120. Tyler Berger Delaware, OH 8 11-06 81
Day 1: 5 06-14 Day 2: 3 04-08
121. Chris Peters Birchwood, TN 8 11-04 80
Day 1: 5 06-13 Day 2: 3 04-07
122. Chris Wooten West Point, MS 5 10-12 79
Day 1: 5 10-12 Day 2: 0 00-00
123. Eric Johnson Kingston, MA 8 10-10 78
Day 1: 5 07-07 Day 2: 3 03-03
124. Jeremy Maye Windsor, VA 8 10-09 77
Day 1: 5 06-07 Day 2: 3 04-02
125. Chad Schroeder Lowndesboro, AL 5 10-05 76
Day 1: 5 10-05 Day 2: 0 00-00
126. Colby Robertson Summerfield, FL 8 10-05 75
Day 1: 4 05-01 Day 2: 4 05-04
127. Kopeland Rosser Helena, AL 5 09-15 74
Day 1: 5 09-15 Day 2: 0 00-00
128. Garrett Rose Pipecreek, TX 6 09-13 73
Day 1: 5 08-06 Day 2: 1 01-07
129. Frank Ramsey Spring Grove, IL 6 09-06 72
Day 1: 2 04-11 Day 2: 4 04-11
130. Barry Wilson Birmingham, AL 5 09-03 71
Day 1: 5 09-03 Day 2: 0 00-00
131. Gus Kneidinger Prospect, PA 6 09-03 70
Day 1: 3 06-08 Day 2: 3 02-11
132. Guy Eaker Cherryville, NC 7 09-02 69
Day 1: 3 05-02 Day 2: 4 04-00
133. Ronald Ryals Jr Live Oak, FL 5 09-01 68
Day 1: 5 09-01 Day 2: 0 00-00
134. Michael Bradford Scottsboro, AL 5 09-00 67
Day 1: 5 09-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
135. Tucker Smith Birmingham, AL 7 08-15 66
Day 1: 2 02-11 Day 2: 5 06-04
136. Jason Christie Park Hill, OK 5 08-13 65
Day 1: 5 08-13 Day 2: 0 00-00
137. Justin Barnes Monroeville, AL 5 08-12 64
Day 1: 5 08-12 Day 2: 0 00-00
138. Kenny Mittelstaedt Minnetonka, MN 5 08-10 63
Day 1: 1 00-12 Day 2: 4 07-14
139. Johnny McCombs Morris, AL 5 08-07 62
Day 1: 5 08-07 Day 2: 0 00-00
140. Clint Nail Sterrett, AL 5 08-04 61
Day 1: 5 08-04 Day 2: 0 00-00
141. Dj Ellis Crestview, FL 5 08-02 60
Day 1: 5 08-02 Day 2: 0 00-00
142. Ronnie Getz Sunman, IN 7 07-15 59
Day 1: 4 04-11 Day 2: 3 03-04
143. Bob Behrle Hoover, AL 5 07-11 58
Day 1: 5 07-11 Day 2: 0 00-00
144. Garrett Rocamora Lithia, FL 3 07-10 57
Day 1: 3 07-10 Day 2: 0 00-00
145. Anthony Goggins Clanton, AL 5 07-09 56
Day 1: 5 07-09 Day 2: 0 00-00
146. David Gaston Sylacauga, AL 2 07-09 55
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 2 07-09
147. Larry Franks Jr. Wilsonville, AL 4 07-00 54
Day 1: 4 07-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
148. Brandon Mccombs Mc Calla, AL 3 06-13 53
Day 1: 3 06-13 Day 2: 0 00-00
149. Mark Duerr West Allis, WI 4 06-09 52
Day 1: 4 06-09 Day 2: 0 00-00
150. Denis Karachopan Rocky Point, NY 5 06-08 51
Day 1: 4 05-11 Day 2: 1 00-13
151. Tommy Williams Shepherdsville, KY 5 06-04 50
Day 1: 5 06-04 Day 2: 0 00-00
152. Cody Bertrand Dyer, IN 3 06-03 49
Day 1: 1 01-06 Day 2: 2 04-13
153. Cj Knight Sylacauga, AL 3 06-00 48
Day 1: 3 06-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
154. Jerry Gallogly Jr North Tazewell, VA 4 05-13 47
Day 1: 4 05-13 Day 2: 0 00-00
155. Richard Reeger Gastonia, NC 3 05-06 46
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 3 05-06
156. Chris Kingree Inverness, FL 9 05-00 45
Day 1: 4 00-00 Day 2: 5 05-00
157. Ryan Branch Chelsea, AL 3 04-14 44
Day 1: 3 04-14 Day 2: 0 00-00
158. Rich Mcbride Calera, AL 3 04-10 43
Day 1: 3 04-10 Day 2: 0 00-00
159. Robert Gibson Niota, TN 2 04-07 42
Day 1: 2 04-07 Day 2: 0 00-00
160. Cassidy Evans Huntsville, AL 2 04-03 41
Day 1: 2 04-03 Day 2: 0 00-00
161. Shawn Hendrix Sharpsburg, GA 2 02-03 40
Day 1: 2 02-03 Day 2: 0 00-00
162. Jason Casteel Winter Garden, FL 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
162. Russ Lane Prattville, AL 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 126 722 1487-08
2 103 616 1243-14
----------------------------------
229 1338 2731-06

2020 Basspro.com Bassmaster Eastern Open at Lay Lake 12/3-12/5
Lay Lake, Shelby County AL.
(NON_BOATER) Standings Day 2

Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$

1. Jay Przekurat Stevens Point, WI 6 15-08 200
Day 1: 3 04-11 Day 2: 3 10-13
2. Steve Robbins Piketon, OH 6 13-08 199
Day 1: 3 07-10 Day 2: 3 05-14
3. Connor Graham Minneapolis, MN 6 13-06 198
Day 1: 3 06-02 Day 2: 3 07-04
4. Michael Elrod Cropwell, AL 4 13-02 197
Day 1: 1 02-12 Day 2: 3 10-06
5. Rodney Graham Childersburg, AL 6 13-00 196
Day 1: 3 06-09 Day 2: 3 06-07
6. Alex Prince Blue Ridge, GA 6 12-14 195
Day 1: 3 07-13 Day 2: 3 05-01
7. Robert Bruguiere Mechanicsville, VA 6 12-09 194
Day 1: 3 07-02 Day 2: 3 05-07
8. John Goul Philadelphia, MS 6 12-08 193
Day 1: 3 07-01 Day 2: 3 05-07
9. Shawn Spaeth Cadott, WI 6 12-05 192
Day 1: 3 06-14 Day 2: 3 05-07
10. Don Harvey Franklin, TN 6 12-01 191
Day 1: 3 07-02 Day 2: 3 04-15
11. Kibbee Mccoy Knoxville, TN 6 12-01 190
Day 1: 3 05-01 Day 2: 3 07-00
12. Jim Laster Newnan, GA 6 11-13 189
Day 1: 3 06-10 Day 2: 3 05-03
13. Sam Sobieck New Prague, MN 6 11-12 188 $983.00
Day 1: 3 04-11 Day 2: 3 07-01
14. Angela Mayo Maiden, NC 6 11-11 187 $893.00
Day 1: 3 06-13 Day 2: 3 04-14
15. Jeff Queen Catawba, NC 6 11-06 186 $804.00
Day 1: 3 03-12 Day 2: 3 07-10
16. Jason Reaves Montague, TX 6 11-04 185 $715.00
Day 1: 3 03-15 Day 2: 3 07-05
17. Bill Bruce Hendersonville, TN 6 10-12 184 $670.00
Day 1: 3 05-03 Day 2: 3 05-09
18. Jacob Novak Clear Lake, MN 6 10-09 183 $670.00
Day 1: 3 04-03 Day 2: 3 06-06
19. Mike Anderson Harlem, GA 6 10-09 182 $670.00
Day 1: 3 05-02 Day 2: 3 05-07
20. Caz Anderson Hayesville, NC 6 10-08 181 $670.00
Day 1: 3 05-12 Day 2: 3 04-12
21. Russell Hoyle Newton, NC 6 10-06 180 $625.00
Day 1: 3 04-02 Day 2: 3 06-04
22. Brian Rothrock Monticello, IN 5 10-04 179 $625.00
Day 1: 3 05-15 Day 2: 2 04-05
23. Joe Eubanks Marietta, GA 5 10-02 178 $625.00
Day 1: 2 02-05 Day 2: 3 07-13
24. Jon Jezierski Troy, MI 6 10-00 177 $625.00
Day 1: 3 04-03 Day 2: 3 05-13
25. Carl Hunter Snellville, GA 6 09-14 176 $625.00
Day 1: 3 04-09 Day 2: 3 05-05
26. Cody Shry Pinehrst, TX 5 09-12 175 $536.00
Day 1: 3 07-08 Day 2: 2 02-04
27. Harold Addison Columbia, SC 5 09-11 174 $536.00
Day 1: 3 05-12 Day 2: 2 03-15
28. Ronald Young New Braunfels, TX 6 09-06 173 $536.00
Day 1: 3 05-01 Day 2: 3 04-05
29. Daniel Valois Gomez Coral Springs FL VENEZU 6 09-04 172 $536.00
Day 1: 3 03-15 Day 2: 3 05-05
30. Mark Westrick Hastings, PA 4 09-04 171 $536.00
Day 1: 2 04-14 Day 2: 2 04-06
31. Levi Allgeier Bardstown, KY 6 09-03 170 $491.00
Day 1: 3 04-10 Day 2: 3 04-09
32. Skyler Anderson Harlem, GA 5 09-02 169 $491.00
Day 1: 3 05-00 Day 2: 2 04-02
33. Ryan Fronina Mohrsville, PA 4 09-01 168 $491.00
Day 1: 1 01-15 Day 2: 3 07-02
34. Bailey Rothrock Monticello, IN 5 09-01 167 $491.00
Day 1: 3 06-10 Day 2: 2 02-07
35. Dustin Williamson Aiken, SC 6 09-00 166 $491.00
Day 1: 3 05-10 Day 2: 3 03-06
36. Ken Sharkey Spring Lake, MI 6 08-14 165 $491.00
Day 1: 3 03-12 Day 2: 3 05-02
37. Chris Bridges Clinton, MO 5 08-12 164 $491.00
Day 1: 3 04-15 Day 2: 2 03-13
38. Travis Culbreth Columbia, AL 5 08-08 163 $491.00
Day 1: 3 05-03 Day 2: 2 03-05
39. Jeff Keever Tignall, GA 5 08-07 162 $491.00
Day 1: 2 02-08 Day 2: 3 05-15
40. Chris Newton Whitesboro, NY 5 08-03 161 $491.00
Day 1: 2 02-09 Day 2: 3 05-10
41. Todd Wagman Winter Garden, FL 5 08-03 160
Day 1: 3 04-08 Day 2: 2 03-11
42. Scott Corliss Northwood, NH 4 07-15 159
Day 1: 2 05-00 Day 2: 2 02-15
43. Michael Schrader North Attleboro, MA 5 07-13 158
Day 1: 2 02-02 Day 2: 3 05-11
44. Randy Woodley Harvest, AL 4 07-11 157
Day 1: 3 06-09 Day 2: 1 01-02
45. Bryden Mugleston Mount Juliet, TN 6 07-10 156
Day 1: 3 03-05 Day 2: 3 04-05
46. David Booth Erin, TN 6 07-09 155
Day 1: 3 04-12 Day 2: 3 02-13
47. Andrew Packard Fresno, CA 6 07-08 154
Day 1: 3 03-14 Day 2: 3 03-10
48. Logan Stewart Nashville, TN 5 07-07 153
Day 1: 3 04-08 Day 2: 2 02-15
49. Craig Congleton Rockford, MI 4 07-05 152
Day 1: 3 05-06 Day 2: 1 01-15
50. Neal Wisinski Stevens Point, WI 4 07-03 151
Day 1: 3 05-08 Day 2: 1 01-11
51. Tyler Harless HELENA, AL 5 07-03 150
Day 1: 3 05-05 Day 2: 2 01-14
52. Harry Linsinbigler IV Dover, FL 3 07-02 149
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 3 07-02
53. Dawson Wisner Green Cv Spgs, FL 5 07-01 148
Day 1: 3 05-03 Day 2: 2 01-14
54. Rick Williams Jr Sandston, VA 5 07-01 147
Day 1: 2 02-05 Day 2: 3 04-12
55. Jeffery Strong Sharpsburg, GA 4 07-00 146
Day 1: 3 05-14 Day 2: 1 01-02
56. Stacey Jefferson Conway, SC 6 07-00 145
Day 1: 3 03-10 Day 2: 3 03-06
57. Greg Secord Salem, SC 3 06-15 144
Day 1: 3 06-15 Day 2: 0 00-00
58. Bradley Brooks Easley, SC 4 06-14 143
Day 1: 1 02-11 Day 2: 3 04-03
59. Parker Vincent Deatsville, AL 3 06-13 142
Day 1: 3 06-13 Day 2: 0 00-00
60. Charles Harris Athens, AL 3 06-13 141
Day 1: 1 02-01 Day 2: 2 04-12
61. Chuck Thurlow Auburn, AL 5 06-13 140
Day 1: 3 04-03 Day 2: 2 02-10
62. Adam Traugh Gilroy, CA 5 06-13 139
Day 1: 3 04-01 Day 2: 2 02-12
63. Max Mcgee Louisville, MS 5 06-12 138
Day 1: 3 04-07 Day 2: 2 02-05
64. Steven Kellam Dry Ridge, KY 6 06-12 137
Day 1: 3 03-05 Day 2: 3 03-07
65. Mike Scroggins Wilsonville, AL 4 06-10 136
Day 1: 3 05-13 Day 2: 1 00-13
66. Jim Ford Magnolia, AR 3 06-09 135
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 3 06-09
67. Kelvin Young Guntersville, AL 3 06-08 134
Day 1: 3 06-08 Day 2: 0 00-00
68. Caleb Dennis Childersburg, AL 4 06-07 133
Day 1: 1 01-15 Day 2: 3 04-08
69. Steve Lindsey Bayou La Batre, AL 3 06-06 132
Day 1: 2 04-11 Day 2: 1 01-11
70. Ralph Gibson Locust Grove, OK 5 06-04 131
Day 1: 2 02-13 Day 2: 3 03-07
71. Randal Griffice Bessemer, AL 4 06-00 130
Day 1: 3 05-03 Day 2: 1 00-13
72. Justin Thomas Panama City, FL 4 05-15 129
Day 1: 1 00-15 Day 2: 3 05-00
73. Andy Semonco Chester, VA 3 05-13 128
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 3 05-13
74. Steven Slaughter Roanoke, TX 5 05-13 127
Day 1: 2 01-11 Day 2: 3 04-02
75. Todd Mowery Munford, TN 6 05-11 126
Day 1: 3 03-02 Day 2: 3 02-09
76. John Hatfield Panama City, FL 3 05-10 125
Day 1: 1 00-14 Day 2: 2 04-12
77. Randy Tallhamer Parkersburg, WV 4 05-09 124
Day 1: 2 03-12 Day 2: 2 01-13
78. Scott Waters Saint Cloud, FL 3 05-07 123
Day 1: 2 04-00 Day 2: 1 01-07
79. Cody Stahl Griffin, GA 3 05-06 122
Day 1: 3 05-06 Day 2: 0 00-00
80. Josh Dees Mt. Olive, AL 3 05-03 121
Day 1: 3 05-03 Day 2: 0 00-00
81. Kai Barnett Wilsonville, AL 4 05-03 120
Day 1: 3 03-08 Day 2: 1 01-11
82. Grant Hopson Hartselle, AL 4 05-03 119
Day 1: 1 02-02 Day 2: 3 03-01
83. John Connell Marion, IL 3 04-15 118
Day 1: 1 01-05 Day 2: 2 03-10
84. Jon Lawson Cartersville, GA 3 04-11 117
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 3 04-11
84. Waylon Mullis Tuscaloosa, AL 3 04-11 117
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 3 04-11
86. Josh Morse Apopka, FL 2 04-10 115
Day 1: 1 02-08 Day 2: 1 02-02
87. Burley Langford Jr. S.Chesterfield, VA 4 04-09 114
Day 1: 3 03-06 Day 2: 1 01-03
88. Phil Dodds Hixson, TN 2 04-04 113
Day 1: 2 04-04 Day 2: 0 00-00
89. Darren Ashley Calhoun Falls, SC 3 04-04 112
Day 1: 2 01-13 Day 2: 1 02-07
90. Jonathan Majors Chelsea, AL 4 04-03 111
Day 1: 1 01-00 Day 2: 3 03-03
91. Roy Hurst Jr Birmingham, AL 3 04-03 110
Day 1: 2 01-15 Day 2: 1 02-04
92. Doug Johnson Prattville, AL 3 04-02 109
Day 1: 1 01-05 Day 2: 2 02-13
93. Buddy Elston Jr. Odenville, AL 2 04-00 108
Day 1: 2 04-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
94. Lonny Peryer Sparta, MO 4 04-00 107
Day 1: 1 00-15 Day 2: 3 03-01
95. Zack Barrera Morriston, FL 2 04-00 106
Day 1: 1 01-08 Day 2: 1 02-08
96. Hayden Marbut Vestavia, AL 3 03-15 105
Day 1: 2 02-14 Day 2: 1 01-01
97. Wendell Edgil Winfield, AL 2 03-13 104
Day 1: 2 03-13 Day 2: 0 00-00
98. Chip Stith Piscataway, NJ 3 03-12 103
Day 1: 1 01-15 Day 2: 2 01-13
99. Jack Alexander Mountain Brook, AL 3 03-11 102
Day 1: 3 03-11 Day 2: 0 00-00
100. Rick Hamer Charleston, WV 2 03-11 101
Day 1: 1 01-04 Day 2: 1 02-07
101. Ashley Bishop Chesapeake, VA 3 03-09 100
Day 1: 3 03-09 Day 2: 0 00-00
102. Bert Seitz Chelsea, AL 2 03-09 99
Day 1: 2 03-09 Day 2: 0 00-00
103. Kent Duchaine Fort Gaines, GA 2 03-08 98
Day 1: 2 03-08 Day 2: 0 00-00
104. Tanner Plumlee Gadsden, TN 1 03-07 97
Day 1: 1 03-07 Day 2: 0 00-00
105. Steve Legg Vincent, OH 3 03-05 96
Day 1: 1 01-05 Day 2: 2 02-00
106. Billy Messer Spartanburg, SC 2 03-04 95
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 2 03-04
107. Jon Brazeal Eucha, OK 3 03-01 94
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 3 03-01
108. Ralph Pierce Prattville, AL 2 02-15 93
Day 1: 2 02-15 Day 2: 0 00-00
109. Lucas Bradley Gadsden, AL 2 02-13 92
Day 1: 2 02-13 Day 2: 0 00-00
110. Jason Beasley Millbrook, AL 1 02-13 91
Day 1: 1 02-13 Day 2: 0 00-00
111. Brad Hoff Brooks, GA 3 02-11 90
Day 1: 3 02-11 Day 2: 0 00-00
112. Todd Young Perryville, KY 2 02-11 89
Day 1: 2 02-11 Day 2: 0 00-00
113. Eric Davis Athens, AL 3 02-08 88
Day 1: 3 02-08 Day 2: 0 00-00
114. Mitch Van Ert Watertown, WI 2 02-08 87
Day 1: 1 01-11 Day 2: 1 00-13
115. Luke Kerstetter Brookfield, WI 1 02-04 86
Day 1: 1 02-04 Day 2: 0 00-00
116. Daniel Istik Cranberry Twp, PA 4 02-03 85
Day 1: 3 00-00 Day 2: 1 02-03
117. William Maddox Trussville, AL 1 02-03 84
Day 1: 1 02-03 Day 2: 0 00-00
118. Isaac Booth Washburn, TN 2 02-02 83
Day 1: 2 02-02 Day 2: 0 00-00
119. Lee Means Madison, AL 2 02-01 82
Day 1: 2 02-01 Day 2: 0 00-00
120. Paul Scharf Sr Tampa, FL 1 02-00 81
Day 1: 1 02-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
121. Eric Carroll Gaylesville, AL 2 01-15 80
Day 1: 2 01-15 Day 2: 0 00-00
122. Jacob Thompkins Myrtle Beach, SC 2 01-14 79
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 2 01-14
123. Grover Jones Jr Starr, SC 2 01-13 78
Day 1: 2 01-13 Day 2: 0 00-00
124. Greg Mauldin Archdale, NC 2 01-12 77
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 2 01-12
125. Mason Gunter Newnan, GA 1 01-04 76
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 1 01-04
126. Ryan Godsey Chickamauga, GA 1 01-00 75
Day 1: 1 01-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
127. Steve Deyton Forest City, NC 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
127. Barney Edens Midland, TX 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
127. Mark Guhne Hixson, TN 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
127. Ray Hill Lake City, FL 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
127. Yo Howard Bolingbrook, IL 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
127. Chris Jones Birmingham, AL 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
127. Deandrae Kimbrough Tuscaloosa, AL 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 0 00-00
127. Caleb Scott Sylacauga, AL 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 0 00-00

by AnglersChannel

Felix’s Fall Run Secures Bassmaster Rookie Of The Year Honors

Bassmaster Elite Series pro Austin Felix of Eden Prairie, Minn., has won the 2020 Elite Series Rookie of the Year title.

Photo by Seigo Saito/B.A.S.S.

December 4, 2020

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — A strong run through rescheduled tournaments gave Bassmaster Elite Series pro Austin Felix a shot at winning the Bassmaster Angler of the Year title, and although disappointed his fortunes fell short, the native of Eden Prairie, Minn., is proud to have accomplished his initial goal of winning Elite Series Rookie of the Year.

“Rookie of the Year is really special because you get one shot at it. You don’t get a do-over,” Felix said. “It’s bittersweet to be that close to AOY, but I’ll get a shot at it next year.”

Felix might have won this year and swept the season awards if not for subpar first and last events.

“I knew I dug myself a bit of a hole,” Felix said of his 64th-place finish in the season opener on the St. Johns River, “but I’ve been thinking about ROY the whole season.”

Well-versed at clear-water fishing, Felix banked on making a move when the Elite Series headed north to smallmouth waters at the St. Lawrence River (25th), Lake Champlain (18th) and Lake St. Clair (13th). Those finishes pushed him into the Top 15 in AOY standings, but Felix never displayed his trademark consistency.

“I had one stellar day and one mediocre day where I let it get away from me,” Felix said. “It seemed like the third day I’d catch them again, but I could never climb up into that Top 10. I underperformed up north, not making any Top 10s.

“It wasn’t until tournaments on Santee Cooper and Chickamauga Lake that I was able to put two good days together to have a good event. After the smallmouth tournaments, I was at the point of just trying not to give back all the points I gained up north. Fortunately, the fall fishing played into my hand a lot more than I thought it would.”

The COVID-19 pandemic forced B.A.S.S. to move four events to fall, previously unexplored territory for the Elites. Elite Series tournaments on Lake Guntersville, Santee Cooper Lakes, Chickamauga Lake and Lake Fork were moved to times requiring the anglers to figure out the current conditions, not rely on past patterns. Felix began the run with a 40th on Guntersville but maintained his position in the points race.

“What I was most afraid of was Santee Cooper. To be fortunate enough to find that group of offshore fish that allowed me to coast to a solid limit every day, it was really exciting,” said Felix, who competed for the title and ended up fourth.

That finish moved him to sixth in the AOY standings. Felix followed it with a fifth at Chickamauga Lake that put him just five points behind the AOY leader heading into the season’s final event on Lake Fork. While there was a great chance, it wasn’t to be on Fork, where Felix finished 68th and dropped to seventh overall. He could only get a handful of bites each day in practice on the famed Texas fishery, “but it deteriorated over the tournament — I just couldn’t get it done.”

What he did get done is put himself beside the names of previous ROYs like Drew Cook, Jake Whitaker, Drew Benton, Brandon Card and 2020 Bassmaster Classic Champion Hank Cherry. Felix totaled 651 points to top Kyle Welcher (639) and Lake Eufaula champion Buddy Gross (638). Japan’s Taku Ito, who led the AOY standings for a short time at midseason, finished fourth with 606.

“This rookie class has been incredibly talented,” Felix said. “It took Buddy Gross two tournaments to win his first blue trophy. Kyle Welcher proved to everybody that he isn’t just a YouTube kid. He caught the biggest fish of the year. All we had to do was go to New York and Taku made himself a viral sensation. Any one of those guys would have totally deserved this.”

Felix refined his fishing acumen while crossing the county competing for the University of Minnesota (he won an FLW College National Championship in 2014), FLW and Basspro.com Bassmaster Opens events.

“I was under this false impression that local knowledge was key at every lake, which is totally not the case,” said Felix. “It showed me that by doing some research and understanding how regional fish react, you can compete even if you don’t know where every brushpile is.”

Now, Felix is confident that he can go to new places, or at new times, and have a decent shot at discovering a pattern and competing.

“I think that with my angling repertoire, different techniques that I’m confident and comfortable with, I’m going to be able to figure out something they’re going to bite if I can just find the fish,” he said. “I’ve become more comfortable regionally, and I felt like I’ve learned a lot to try to compete across the country.”

Admittedly more of a consistent angler than the guy who wins big tournaments, Felix said he’s working on learning how to finish. Felix is ready to prep his new Phoenix boat and himself for the 2021 season. He’s already thinking about “how I can improve on last year. As soon as the season’s over, I take a few days off and I’m ready to start again.”

And this year, Felix will be starting the season with a title that will follow for the rest of his career: 2020 Bassmaster Elite Rookie of the Year.

by AnglersChannel

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