Gill’s new Langland Technical Hoodie ICAST 2020

Not Just Another Fishing Hoodie

Gill’s new Langland Technical Hoodie features exclusive, durable, plant-based Xpel®

Buford, GA (July 13, 2020) – A hoodie. They range from a glorified sweatshirt with screened logo to something an angler can’t live without, wearing it until it’s so ratty your friends call it out. So, what if there was a technically advanced fishing hoodie that felt like your new favorite, wore like a champ, and had all the features and technologies that a serious angler demands? Welcome Gill’s new Langland Technical Hoodie.
From its miraculous Xpel® repellant to details like heat applied eyelets for the drawcord, the Langland Technical Hoodie considers everything.
Standing head and shoulders above the competition is Gill’s exclusive Xpel outer fabric application. The plant-based treatment elevates an otherwise common lifestyle product into a serious technical fishing hoodie. Xpel adds durability and water-resistance, fully effective to 30 cycles through the washer, and continuing to be effective even at 50 washes. Can your hoodie do that?

Xpel provides a robust stain resistant protection, too, rigorously tested in Gill’s laboratory. A wide range of highly staining products were used during testing, ranging from food dye to heavy grease. Stains wash straight off the face of the fabric by simply pouring water over the area. Fish slime, blood and guts are no match for this technology.
Why a plant-based technology? Harmful chemicals that are detrimental to our environment and health are eliminated.
The fabric itself is 95% polyester and 5% elastane. The brushed back fleece not only provides a soft touch, but also a little stretch for comfort and the ability to maintain the original shape.
The first feature that stands out on the Langland Technical Hoodie is the hood itself. The adjustable hood’s drawcords are positioned inside to be easily tucked away, not catching fishing line and everything else around the boat. And the drawcord’s heat applied eyelets are durable and resist fraying.

You’ll also notice the offset seams over the shoulders. This allows for greater freedom of movement and overall fit and comfort.
The front features a generously sized kangaroo pocket with a secured internal zipped pocket. Plenty of room to warm yourhands between bites, and a place to safely store essentials like keys and cash.

Rounding out the Langland Technical
Hoodie’s brilliance are integrated thumb-loops in the cuffs. They help keep the sleeves in place while active. As well, the thumb-loops anchor the sleeves when you put on an extra outer layer.

The match-all Graphite colored Langland Technical Hoodie comes in sizes XS to 4XL. MSRP is $70 USD.

The era of the simple hoodie is over. Gill’s stylish Langland Technical Hoodie will soon be your favorite, and for a very, very long time.

by AnglersChannel

Gamakatsu's New Under Spin Head ICAST 2020

Tacoma, Washington (July 13, 2020)Gamakatsu has put a different spin on the new Under Spin Head which is similar to their extremely popular Swim Bait Head. The Under Spin Head has what serious anglers look for in a hook. The hook is ideal for winching magnum-sized bucketmouths out of heavy cover and is ideal when you want to apply maximum pressure without fear of a bending out the hook. The premium Gamakatsu Heavy Cover, 60-degree hook on the Under Spin Head is just what the doctor ordered for heavy braid or fluorocarbon line and can stand up to anything you can dish out. The head profile is streamlined to glide through heavy cover. A Spring Lock holds swim baits and other plastics gently but firmly, and keeps them straight on the hook.

Visit the Gamakatsu New Product Site Here

Attention-getting, recessed eyes on the Under Spin Eye provide a focal point for predators and the small, chrome Willow Leaf blade is a subtle trigger. Hung from a quality ball-bearing swivel, the blade spins freely at even the slowest retrieves to simulate baitfish.

Under Spin Head Features:

60-degree Heavy Cover hook
Chrome willow leaf blade
Ball bearing swivel
Spring Lock holds plastic secure
Size: 4/0 hook in sizes 3/16, ¼, 3/8, and ½ ounce
Color: Plain Lead
Qty/Pack: 1

by AnglersChannel

Gamakatsu® Gika Rig for Bass ICAST 2020

Tacoma, Washington (July 13, 2020) It's a fishing rig perfected in Japan, and now the Gamakatsu Gika Rig proves a remarkable technique for catching largemouth and smallmouth bass across North America. "The Gika Rig combines the natural presentation of finesse fishing with the speed of power fishing," said Gamakatsu Sales Manager, Jeff Roberts. "It's a deadly blend of tactics that bass find irresistible!"

Gika Rigs use an off-set shank worm hook with an elongated drop shot weight attached directly to the eye via a solid ring. The drop shot weight features a snap that allows anglers to quickly change the size of the weight when the situation calls for it and is painted black for stealthy presentations. The weight size is permanently stamped into the side of each weight making it easy to identify when it's time to make a change.

Visit the Gamakatsu New Product Site Here!

Changing weights controls the depth and drop speed of the bait adding to the rig's versatility. The position of the weight allows anglers to 'feel' the bottom, detecting transitions in composition and helping find fish-holding structures. Another advantage is its natural swimming and dropping motion. The solid ring allows the plastic bait to float freely and rotate from side to side as it descends. It slips through vegetation with ease and grabs the attention of bass. The Gika Rig offers a different presentation than most other anglers' baits, and it may be the edge you need to put more fish in the boat especially in lakes with extra angling pressure.

Many different soft plastic baits like worms, craw imitating, or creature baits, perform superbly on Gika Rigs. Plus, they each produce a different action. The Gamakatsu Gika Rig includes weights paired to the hook for best performance, sold two per package.

Gika Rig Features:

New technique developed in Japan
Combines the natural presentation of finesse fishing with the speed of power fishing for any number of plastics
Offset worm hook, elongated weight attached to the eye via solid ring
Weight size can be changed to adapt to any situation
Size: 2/0 (1/8, 3/16); 3/0 (3/16, 1/4); 4/0 (1/4, 3/8)
Color: NS Black
Qty/Pack: 2 (including weights)

Gika Rig Weights Features:

Quick attach clip
Stealthy black finish
Weight size stamped on the side
Size: 1/8, 3/16, 1/4, 3/8
Color: NS Black
Qty/Pack: 4

by AnglersChannel

SPRO Essential Series Lineup ICAST 2020

Kennesaw, Georgia (July 13, 2020) SPRO is bringing value to its "Essential" line up of baits that every angler should have in their arsenal when hitting the water. If you're a new angler or seasoned veteran, you know that there are three styles of baits bass anglers must have at the ready. Popper, square bill and minnow style baits remain staples in the bass fishing arena, and now SPRO is offering three new baits at a value price to arm anglers with the tools they need to compete at the top level.

The E Pop 80 serves as the popper bait providing anglers a perfect bait for the aggressive topwater bite. The E Pop 80 has an extremely loud popping action with a loud knocking sound- calling in fish from a distance. The bait is designed to cast easily and can be walked back to the boat, creating life-like action that bass can't resist. Paired with Gamakatsu's #4 treble hook on the front and a #4 Gamakatsu feather treble hook on the back, you are sure to hook up when an aggressive bass blows up your bait.

E Pop 80 Features:

Super-loud popping action
Loud knocking sound
Top Water
Gamakatsu #4 treble hooks
Available in Black Silver, Bone, Black Skeleton, Clear Gill, Chartreuse Silver, Chrome, Homemade Shad, Nasty Shad, Pumpkinseed
MSRP: $8.20

Hunter 65 SB brings the versatile square bill bait into play. Square bill baits are notorious for getting the biggest of bass to strike as they deflect off the thick cover. Its erratic hunting action and loud knocking sound gets the bass's attention, making this bait a must-have for any bass angler. Armed with the world's sharpest #4 Gamakatsu treble hooks, you will be able to count on solid hook-sets to wench bass out of the heavy cover. With a dive curve of 3'-5' ft, this is the perfect bait to fish over rocks and timber.

Hunter 65 SB Features:

Loud knocking sound
Heavy enough to cast accurately
Deflects off cover extremely well
Diving depth of 3 to 5 ft.
Gamakatsu #4 treble hooks
Available in Black Silver, Chartreuse Black Back, Chartreuse Blue, Citrus Shad, Nasty Shad, Old Fire Tiger, Pumpkinseed, Rayburn Red, Spring Craw, Taco Salad
MSRP: $8.20

Zero Minnow 130 is one of those baits that work anywhere you fish. The versatility of a minnow style wake bait makes it one of the most deadly types of baits on the market. Fished in early spring, or the dog days of summer, wake baits are hard to beat. The minnow style baits have great castability, making it easy to cover water. With a diving depth of 0-1' ft, these baits can be used in several different ways to entice bass to attack. With its loud knocking sound and #4 Gamakatsu treble hooks, the Zero Minnow 130 is a game-changer in wake baits.

Zero Minnow 130 Features:

Loud knocking sound
High floater
Tuned bill
Gamakatsu #4 treble hooks
Available in Bone Olive Black, Bone, Chrome, Chrome Olive, Cotton Candy, Gold Black, Nasty Shad, Silver Black
MSRP: $8.80

by AnglersChannel

AFTCO YUREI ICAST 2020

by AnglersChannel

Gill Fishing FG350 Winter Angler Jacket and Bibs. ICAST 2020

Inspired by Extreme Offshore Conditions

New fishing-focused, cold-weather FG350 Winter Angler Jacket and Bibs influenced by Gill’s expertise in severe marine conditions

Buford, GA (July 10, 2020) – Every new product has an inspiration. Some are introduced to hit a popular retail price. Others are merely degraded imitations of the real thing to undercut the market. Some bring improvements to their category. A rare few draw from years of knowhow to truly advance performance while improving the sport. Gill is the latter.
Since 1975, Gill has provided the gear boaters, sailors and anglers require to defy the weather, while maximizing the entire experience. Most recently, Gill leaned on the company’s celebrated history in offshore sailing and combined it with their authority in technical fishing gear to create the new FG350 Winter Angler Jacket and Bibs.

This is the most functional and versatile fishing suit ever introduced. An industry first, Gill fused the best features and performance of the top ice fishing suits with extreme raingear. You don’t wear your ice fishing suit on open water because it’s cumbersome and leaks. You don’t don your raingear on the ice for fear of freezing. Worry no more. Gill packs it all in the FG350.
Both the top and bottom are waterproof. Not water resistant. Not hopefully waterproof. But decidedly waterproof. Gill achieves this by incorporating an advanced and breathable 2-layer fabric waterproof system into both the jacket and bibs.
Bolstering the FG350’s waterproofness, Gill applies a durable water-repellent finish, which provides longevity.
It’s said that any system is only as good as its weakest link. In this application, that means no matter the waterproof rating of the fabric, if water makes it through the seams, the system fails. Gill understands this and eliminates weaknesses by fully taping and pressure testing every seam, head to toe.

Enhancing the suit’s strength, Gill employs reinforcement fabric on both the seat and knees to provide coverage and protection against severe surfaces. Tried and trusted for years within the marine industry, the fabric withstands the harshest of deck surfaces, giving the wearer ultimate peace of mind. The fabric is tested in the lab using 320 grit sandpaper for over 80,000 revolutions, ensuring it will perform above and beyond industry standards.
The FG350’s insulation isn’t run-of-the-mill, either. A specialty synthetic insulation is formed into measured sheets, versus loose insulation material sewn in that invariably migrates and bunches, creating cold spots. The insulated sheets are spread evenly across the bibs and jacket and sewn into the seams as anchors. Gill’s lightweight insulation also retains large volumes of body heat.
The FG350 Jacket anchors the two-piece ensemble. Rife with features and intelligent design elements, it has no rivals. Beginning at the top, Gill integrates its legendary Vortex hood. Known by mariners and anglers worldwide, the Vortex hood’s ingenious construction serves multiple purposes.

Gill’s imaginative Vortex Hood solves several issues faced by anglers and boaters. “Originally, we engaged with our team of pros who shared their issues. Many of them wear a baseball or trucker-style cap, hoodie, and then the waterproof shell with the hood up. Hoods inflate, caps fly off, so, we got to work on developing a solution,” says Matt Clark, Product Development Director, Gill.
“The Vortex Hood has a three-channeled construction with air chutes built into the hood itself. One goes over the top of the head and exits at the rear of the collar, and two vents down the side of the hood and out through the collar. You get a slipstream effect, allowing air to enter the front and exit out the back.
“Look at it in aerospace terms. With an airplane wing you get the vortex effect when wind travels faster over the top of the curved surface. So, over the top of the Vortex Hood wind speed accelerates and the air is sucked out the back of the hood.”
But when it’s exceptionally cold, like out on the ice, the last thing you want is wind passing through. To that, the Vortex hood features a high facemask with easily accessed double drawcords to secure the hood tightly around your face. Icy winds are kept at bay.

The jacket’s main zipper is carefully considered, too. A robust 2-way zipper is protected by a storm flap constructed of the same waterproof 2-layer material. The storm flap completely negates heavy winds from piercing through the zipper. Moreover, icy rain can’t freeze your zipper shut. The zipper is finished with a snap, too, holding the storm flap in place.
The FG350 Jacket sports a pair of roomy utilitarian chest pockets as well. With zipper closures and storm flap covers, the pockets yield ample space for essentials like a smartphone and fishing tools.
A major predicament with most cold weather jackets are cumbersome or ineffective cuffs. Angler arm lengths vary significantly, even for wearers of the same size jacket. Because of this, Gill builds in a secure, and highly adjustable cuff. It can be adjusted to accommodate everything from substantial cold weather gloves to merely the naked hand.
And, again, addressing waterproofness, the FG350 jacket includes a water-tight, PU inner cuff, which adds to the overall comfort proposition. Gone is the plight of water sliding up the cuff and wicking into your midlayers. Say goodbye to that familiar clammy feel.
Finally, Gill’s FG350 Jacket integrates an internal drawcord at the waist, letting you personalize fit, and at the same time keeping frigid air from funneling up and in.

The FG350 Bibs are as thoughtfully constructed as the Jacket, including the breathable, waterproof 2-layer fabric, fully taped seams, and insulating properties.
Functional features begin with full-length zippered legs, which are logically covered with double storm flaps. Sporting full-length zippers merits easy on and off. Get out of the truck and instantly and effortlessly slip into the bibs without removing your boots.
The Bibs sport extra-wide, adjustable suspender straps, too, easing the pains caused by typical skinny straps digging in. As well, the broad shoulder straps reduce the back and shoulder strain common from a long day on the ice or in the boat, as bib weight is more evenly distributed across your shoulders. The FG350 Bibs feature an elasticated strip on the backside above the hips, holding the bibs in perfect posture, while further lightening the load and reducing fatigue on the shoulders.

Just below Gill’s signature high-rise chest is an extra-wide, zippered cargo pocket with storm flap. Store, protect and easily access items like mini tackle boxes, leader line spool and fishing tools.
Realizing the rigors of bending and kneeling, and how lesser bibs can hike and pull, Gill incorporated performance-cut articulated knees. Meaning the bibs work with your body, not against it. The knees also feature abrasion resistant padding.
Lastly, you’ll appreciate the external D-ring attachment points for carrying critical gear like lanyards and fishing tools.
Both FG350 Jacket and Bibs come in Graphite and are available in sizes XS to 4XL. MSRP for the Jacket is $325 USD, Bibs $250 USD.
Gill’s new fishing-focused cold-weather FG350 Jacket and Bibs don’t imitate any other product on the market… except, perhaps the best features of some of their own, proven offshore and cold-weather designs. Their only inspiration is true angler comfort and longevity, drawing on technical innovation and proven expertise in materials and design to elevate the fishing experience in the nastiest conditions.

by AnglersChannel

New Gill FG100 Pro Tournament 3 Layer Bibs ICAST 2020

Buford, GA (July 1, 2020) – If clothes make the man, bibs make the angler. Yet, often lost in the development and hype of new raingear is a focus on the bibs; it’s an afterthought. The jackets might be rife with features and flair while the bibs, are just bibs. Nothing extraordinary. No wonder they don’t talk about them.
This is not the case with Gill’s new FG100 Pro Tournament 3 Layer Bib, created not only as the perfect complement to a Gill jacket, but a brilliant, fishing-specific standalone to wear with about anything.
Standalone? Indeed. Believe it or not, fishing bibs can be more instrumental and functional than even your rain jacket. You don the jacket in rain and when cold winds howl, but store it otherwise. Bibs, on the other hand, deliver not only waterproofness and warmth, but provide a level of defense against lapping waves, livewell splashing, fish slime and the mustard oozing out of your sandwich. Take them off at the end of the day and your shirt, pants or shorts underneath are fully intact. But for a bib to serve this tall order, it must be designed as such.

It’s prudent to recognize, too, that the Pro Tournament 3 Layer Bib is a match made in heaven for Gill’s FG100 Pro Tournament Jacket, which was introduced earlier this year. Prominent Gill pros are heralding its performance.
“I’ve worn everything out there and one rain suit that does it all and keeps me completely dry and comfy all season long is the FG100 Pro Tournament Jacket,” said Major League Fishing’s Fred Roumbanis.
Skylar Hamilton, a fixture in the B.A.S.S. Elite series, says, “The FG100 Pro Tournament Jacket is one of my all-season favorites, due to how lightweight the material is without sacrificing any durability or waterproof qualities. Equipped with the Vortex hood and the 3-layer system, this jacket meets and exceeds all my needs as a professional angler.”
Now back to the bottoms… The first thing you’ll notice about Gill’s Pro Tournament 3 Layer Bib is the height. Too often fishing bibs barely reach the chest, and even then, straps slide uncomfortably off your shoulders and the bibs end up on your midriff by midday. Intelligently, Gill’s

Pro Tournament 3 Layer Bibs rise above the chest, with a still spacious neck area, and are fortified on the shoulders with extra-wide, easily adjustable, buckle-free Velcro secures. No more flimsy straps slipping and sliding, or hard plastic buckles digging in.

Furthering the contoured fit is a sewn-in super-stretch waistband on the backside. Conforming to the hips, the band takes weight and pressure off the shoulders, eliminating the end-of-day fatigue common with other brands.
Moving down the legs, Gill specially cuts the fabric around the knees to fully articulate. In use, that means when sitting and kneeling, the greater material isn’t stretched, not tugging on the chest and back or hiking the bottom cuffs. To that, the abrasion resistant knee panels guard against wear and tear.
Smartly, Gill’s FG100 Pro Tournament 3 Layer Bibs feature full-length zippered legs for easy on and off. The zippers are covered with double storm flaps to keep the weather out, too.
Finishing at the bottom cuff, Gill includes wide and extremely secure adjustable ankle closures, accommodating everything from flip-flops to deck boots.
Exterior, fishing-specific amenities include a perfectly sized front pouch with storm closure, yielding plenty of space for essentials like line clippers and spool of leader line. Moreover, the storage pouch doubles as a hand warming muff; slide off-duty hands in for a quick warm-up between fish. Properly placed D-ring closures let you hang gear like troller remotes and fishing pliers for handy access. Finally, Gill’s FG100 Pro Tournament 3 Layer Bib features a front fly with YKK Aquaguard zipper. Sweet relief…

With so many features and attributes, it’d be easy to look past Gill’s 3 Layer technology – the true nexus of the bibs – but that would be an injustice.
“We’ve introduced a new three-layer all-in-one fabric system to sportfishing,” says Matt Clark, Product Development Director, GILL. “The system features a durable outer face that can put up with abrasions, scuffs and being worn in some tough conditions. And water just beads and rolls off it.
“The inner layer features the waterproof, breathable technology – the barrier that stops water coming in from the outside, which is very important as it allows the fabric to breathe and transport moisture away from the skin. Breathability makes all the difference,” Clark adds.

“Lastly, you have the all-important next-to-skin layer, a material that picks up moisture from the skin and starts the moisture transport process. It spreads moisture evenly across the fabric to dry much quicker.”
Furthermore, the finish delivers extraordinary moisture repellency, stain resistance, stain release, oil resistance, odor resistance, wicking, faster drying time, colorfastness to crocking and abrasion resistance without changing the inherent comfort, hand feel, or breathability of the fabric.

The FG100 Pro Tournament 3 Layer Bib comes in a match-everything graphite color. Sizes range from XS to 4XL. MSRP is $349 USD. Available February 2021.
In an era when jackets and parkas seem to get all the glory, consider everything that makes Gill’s new FG100 Pro Tournament 3 Layer Bib so special… then try a pair. You’ll quickly realize it’s a standout performer, worthy of its own narrative. In other words, we bet you’ll tell your friends.

GILL FG100 Pro Tournament 3 Layer Bib
Technology:

Waterproof
Fully taped seams
Durable water repellent finish
3-layer fabric construction

Features/Benefits:

Unique side entry design
High-fit with super stretch comfort back panel and adjustable shoulders • Full length zippered legs protected by a double storm guard
External D-ring attachment point
Multiple pockets including zippered chest pocket with side entry, hand warmers and thigh pockets
Front fly with YKK Aquaguard zip
Performance cut with articulated knees
Abrasion resistant knee panels guard against wear and tear
Adjustable ankle closures

Fabric Composition:

Outer: 100% Nylon
Reinforcement: 100% Polyester

by AnglersChannel

Lucas Tackles Bass Pro Tour Trifecta with 205-Pound, Two-Day Total: Berkley Pro Wins Group A to Advance Directly to Championship Round

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 12, 2020 (Sturgeon Bay, Wisc.) Major League Fishing (MLF) Pro Justin Lucas crushed a third MLF record to win the day and secure an automatic berth into Wednesday’s Championship Round. Eight anglers in Group A scored over 100 pounds in the two-day Qualifying Round, including David Dudley who leapt from 37th place after Friday to finish in 4thplace with a 100-pound day. Bass Pro Tour 2020 Season Points contender Jacob Wheeler moved 15 places up SCORETRACKER® to finish in 12th place and Bass Fishing Hall of Famer Gary Klein landed nearly 70 pounds for the day to move from 39th place to 18th place and secure a spot in the Knockout Round.

MLF Pro Justin Lucas, the winner of Qualifying Round Group A, shows off a catch to MLFNOW! viewers. Lucas earned an automatic berth into Wednesday's Championship Round. Photo credit: Garrett Dixon/Major League Fishing
20 anglers fell below the Elimination Line concluding their 2020 Bass Pro Tour seasons. Fletcher Shryock fell short, which ended his run for the Bass Pro Tour 2020 Season Points Champion. Aaron Martens, who returned to the Tour after undergoing treatment for brain cancer, fell from 12th place to 24th place missing the chance to advance to the Knockout Round by nine pounds.

Covercraft Stage Five presented by Abu Garcia continues Monday when Group B returns for their final day of Qualifying Round. Keith Poche will start the day 23 pounds over second place.

Berkley Pro Justin Lucas set his third record in two days of competition with a two-day weight record of 205 pounds, six ounces. The 34-year-old set the record for most weight in a single day on Friday with 141 pounds, nine ounces as well as the most weight in a Period with 78 pounds, 12 ounces. With a 45-pound lead over second place finisher Scott Suggs, Lucas won the Group A Qualifying Round, earning him the first of 10 spots in Wednesday’s Championship Round. With his lead locked, Lucas stopped fishing 30 minutes before lines out to search for waypoints he can use Wednesday.

“What an incredible couple of days,” Lucas said. “The Berkley MaxScent Flat worm caught Every … Single … Fish. I can’t wait for Wednesday; I get a couple days off and look forward to getting back out here to fish for the Championship.”

Arkansas-resident Scott Suggs leveraged his 119-pound Day-One weight to maintain his second-place finish with an additional 12 scorable bass for 41 pounds, three ounces. Today’s catch brought Suggs to a two-day total of 160 pounds, seven ounces. Suggs was one of eight anglers who exceeded 100 pounds in their two-day total: Lucas, Suggs, Josh Bertrand (132-03), David Dudley (111-15), Mark Rose (102-03), Randall Tharp (102-03), Fred Roumbanis (102-00), and James Elam (101-05).

Virginia-resident David Dudley, who caught 102 pounds, four ounces today– the only Pro to exceed the century mark in Sunday’s competition –finished in 4th place. Dudley fought back from 37th place after only catching nine pounds on Friday. The 2019 FLW Angler of the Year reflected on the significance of today’s competition for him as a professional angler.

“Today was a really big day for me,” said Dudley. “I made REDCREST; I caught a 4-10 to secure my spot in Heavy Hitters 2021; I passed the two-day ‘Century’ mark and then finally caught 100 pounds in a single day. Today secured a lot of payouts for me in the future and did a lot for my professional career.”

After Dudley, Jacob Wheeler caught the second-highest single-day total at 71 pounds, five ounces, which allowed him to climb from below the Elimination Line at 27th place to finish in 12th place. Wheeler, who came into Stage Five in third place for 2020 Bass Pro Tour Season Points Champion, will advance to Tuesday’s Knockout Round furthering his effort toward 2020 Points Champ.

Bass Pro Hall of Famer Gary Klein climbed above the Elimination Line today with 69 pounds, 12 ounces, the third highest in single-day weight of the day. Klein finished Day One in 39th place – next to last – after catching only three fish for eight pounds, four ounces.

The field of 40 Pros caught 453 scorable (2 pounds or greater) bass for a single day total weight of 1,401 pounds, seven ounces in this event hosted by Destination Sturgeon Bay. Randall Tharp caught the Berkley Big Bass of the day weighing in five pounds, two ounces.

The Top Ten of Day One, Qualifying Group A finished as follows:

Place Angler Two-Day Total Two-Day Total Largest Fish over Two-Day Round
1 Justin Lucas 205-06 71 4-06
2 Scott Suggs 160-07 45 5-06
3 Josh Bertrand 132-03 43 4-07
4 David Dudley 111-15 41 4-10
5 Mark Rose 102-03 33 4-11
5 Randall Tharp 102-03 31 5-02
7 Fred Roumbanis 102-00 31 4-15
8 James Elam 101-05 33 4-10
9 Jonathon VanDam 98-12 32 4-10
10 Brent Chapman 97-00 32 4-06

For complete results, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com, Bass Pro Tour, Results.

The competition continues Saturday when Group B takes to the water for the second day of their Qualifying Round, including current Season Points leader Jordan Lee and current Group B leader Keith Poche who enters Day Two with a 23-pound lead over Alton Jones Jr.

Pending no weather delays, the day begins at Sawyer Park Boat Launch, Sturgeon Bay, Wisc., 6:15 a.m. CT when the field reports to pick-up their MLF Official and camera operators before trailering to the ramp of his choice. With lines in at 8:00 a.m. CT, the competition consists of three, 150-minute periods.

Fans can catch all the action every day of competition (July 10-15) on MLFNOW! livestream on MajorLeagueFishing.com or download the MLF App for your Apple or GooglePlay device or on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV).

by AnglersChannel

Strike King Introduces the Rage Ned Craw for ICAST 2020

Lexington, S.C. – July 10, 2020 – Building on the success created with their entry into the Ned Rigging game in 2019, Strike King introduces the new Rage Ned Craw for the 2021 tackle season. The scaled down 2.75-inch bait will give Ned Rig fans the legendary action of a Rage Craw, but in a package specifically tailored to the popular finesse application.

Built on the foundation of patented Rage Tail flange at the claws, the Rage Ned Craw features a sharply ribbed body that is proportioned to perfectly match the circumference of the Tour Grade Ned Head, and finished with a flat tail piece to present a streamlined, flush pairing when rigged. The Rage Tail claws are scaled to match the body, yet an exact duplication of the Rage Craw family.

Crispin Powley, Strike King’s Director of Product Development said that the Rage Ned Craw presented itself as the obvious direction to take the product line. “We saw tremendous acceptance of the launch of our Ned Rig lineup by dealers and anglers last season, so adding to the lineup made sense,” said Powley. “When we were looking for the next product, we landed on a version of the Rage Craw because it is the number one selling soft plastic in our product line, and anglers have begun stepping outside the straight bodied baits that Ned Rigging started with.”

Powley added that while designed for Ned Rigging, it is a multi-faceted lure. “The Rage Ned Craw is also great for using as a trailer on finesse jigs like our Bitsy Bug and Bitsy Flip Jigs,” he said. “It will also be effective on a drop shot rig, and a number of other finesse applications; it’s a great bait that anglers will find more uses for than we envisioned for it.”

The Rage Ned Craw will be available in a variety of Strike King’s popular colors and will be available in the fall of 2020.

by AnglersChannel

Strike King Introduces Weedless Ned Head for ICAST 2020

Lexington, S.C. – July 10, 2020 – As the Ned Rigging technique has developed, so has the creativity of anglers in applying it. In the 2020 tackle season, Strike King entered the Ned Rigging game with several offerings, and for 2021, they have expanded those offerings to include the Tour Grade Weedless Ned Head.

Last year, Strike King presented the Tour Grade Ned Head to the industry. It featured a flat, mushroom shaped head for clean rigging, a 2/0 black nickel sickle hook for precise rigging and solid hook up ratios, and a wire hook keeper along the hook shank to hold baits firm.

For 2021, Strike King adds a version that includes a wire weed guard that will allow anglers to take the Ned Rig off roading.

Crispin Powley, Director of Product Development for Strike King, said that the way anglers use lures are what drives product development, and the result is this new head. “We frequently hear from anglers who try new ways of using our lures in ways we didn’t design them for,” said Powley. “We heard from anglers fishing cover, that they wanted to be able to fish the Ned Rig and the result was the Weedless Ned Head.

The new Strike King Tour Grade Weedless Ned Head will be available in 1/16, 1/8, and 3/16-ounce, and in two colors, black and green pumpkin. They will be available in the fall of 2020.

by AnglersChannel

Strike King Introduces Hybrid Hunter and Hybrid Hunter Jr. for ICAST 2020

Lexington, S.C. – July 10, 2020 – Finding a lure that can provide solutions to several fishing equations is not easy. However, with the launch of the new Hybrid Hunter and Hybrid Hunter Jr. hardbaits, Strike King has done exactly that.

The Hybrid Hunter and Hybrid Hunter Jr feature a fat bodied, flat sided shape with a unique, “L-Shaped” 90-degree bill that combine to create a hard thumping, exaggerated hunting action with an extremely loud rattle that causes fish to strike with a vengeance.

Thanks to the shape of the body, the unique lip design and the buoyancy of the bait, Strike King pro staffer Todd Castledine said that it is more than a crankbait. “There’s no other bait like it on the market,” said Castledine. “It can work effectively in situations many anglers throw a lipless crankbait, a jerkbait, a crankbait or a swimbait.”

Castledine reports that it is one of his most versatile lures. “I throw it anywhere and around any kind of cover,” he said. “Because of its design properties, it doesn’t dive at a steep angle, and quickly rises when paused; it’s the best hardbait I’ve ever thrown around cover – especially grass.”

The Hybrid Hunter and Hybrid Hunter Jr. are designed to be fished on heavy line and perform best in the 1 to 5-foot of water range. Available in two sizes, the Hybrid Hunter and Hybrid Hunter Jr. are sure to revolutionize your shallow water fishing game. They will be available in the fall of 2020.

Product Name	Size	Hook Size	Diving Depth
Hybrid Hunter	3.5-inch	2 (belly), 4 (tail)	3 to 5
Hybrid Hunter Jr.	3-inch	4	2 to 4

About Strike King
Strike King is a Lexington, SC based supplier of fishing tackle and sunglasses. The Company supplies hard baits, wire baits, soft plastics and related accessories through the mass market, sporting goods, and specialty outdoor channels. For further information about Strike King, please visit www.strikeking.com.

About Lew’s

Lew's Fishing is a Lexington, SC based supplier of fishing equipment and tackle. The Company supplies branded fishing reels, rods, and related accessories through the mass market, sporting goods, and specialty outdoor channels. For further information about Lew’s, please visit www.lews.com.

by AnglersChannel

New Jersey’s Rogers Wins Toyota Series Tournament at Lake Erie

SANDUSKY, Ohio (July 12, 2020) – New Jersey angler Lee Rogers of Newton, New Jersey, brought a five-bass limit to the scale Saturday weighing 15 pounds, 10 ounces to win the three-day Toyota Series at Lake Erie tournament in Sandusky, Ohio. Rogers’ three-day total of 15 bass weighing 48-12 earned him the win by a slim 9-ounce margin over second-place anglerDrew Sanford of Springfield, Missouri, and earned Rogers the top payout of $32,439 in the first tournament of the 2020 Toyota Series Northern Division.

On days one and two, Rogers fished around the islands near Sandusky for smallmouth. Concentrating on a handful of rocky spots on Kelleys Island and the Bass Islands, Rogers caught his smallmouth on a drop-shot rig between 12 and 18 feet deep.

“They were small spots, so it didn’t take long to find the fish on them,” said Rogers. “But there were no numbers; you would just catch one or two.”

For his smallmouth, a drop-shot rig with a Strike King Half Shell did best, and though his primary color was green pumpkin and purple, he alternated between a few depending on the conditions. He posted weights of 17-3 and 15-15, to put himself in the top 10 heading into the final day of competition.

On the final day, the field was confined to the area around Sandusky Bay due to strong winds. Starting the day in eighth place, Rogers fished rock piles near and off the bank to catch a 15-10 limit of largemouth bass and rocket up the leaderboard with the biggest limit of the day to earn the win.

“There wasn’t a lot of grass, so I was targeting rock piles,” said Rogers. “I caught some on tubes, and then I switched up to a Texas rig with an Eco Pro Swing Shad. It came through the rocks a little easier, and they started eating that pretty good.”

Rogers used the 3.8-inch size Swing Shad swimbait in a green pumpkin color and a 5/16-ounce weight to do his damage. His tube of choice was a Strike King model with a 3/8-ounce weight, also in green pumpkin. He also added one fish on a spinnerbait fished over some grass on the final day.

“I really didn’t think I would be in contention to win. I just wanted to duplicate day one and get a check. To make the top 10 was a shock. I just can’t believe I won; it’s been a dream of mine since I was a kid,” Rogers went on to say.

The top 10 pros on Lake Erie finished:

1^st: Lee Rogers of Newton, N.J., 15 bass, 48-12, $32,439

2^nd: Drew Sanford of Springfield, Mo., 15 bass, 48-3, $12,493

3^rd: John Dawson of Mount Vernon, Ohio, 15 bass, 47-11, $9,672

4^th: Jonathan Kelley of Old Forge, Pa., 15 bass, 46-4, $8,167

5^th: Jonathan Dietz of Corry, Pa., 15 bass, 45-9, $7,254

6^th: Dick Parker of Lorain, Ohio, 15 bass, 44-12, $6,448

7^th: Tony Mitchell of Plainwell, Mich., 14 bass, 44-10, $5,642

8^th: Chase Serafin of White Lake, Mich., 15 bass, 44-1, $4,836

9^th: Troy Stokes of Brownstown, Mich., 11 bass, 39-15, $4,030

10^th: Drew Six of Clinton, Ohio, 13 bass, 39-14, $3,224

A complete list of results can be found atFLWFishing.com.

Matt Becker of Finleyville, Pennsylvania, took home an extra $1,000 as the highest finishing FLW PHOENIX BONUS member. Boaters are eligible to win up to an extra $35,000 per event in each Toyota Series tournament if all requirements are met. More information on the FLW PHOENIX BONUS contingency program can be found atPhoenixBassBoats.com.

P/aul Kimball of Glastonbury, Connecticut, brought a 5-pound, 3-ounce smallmouth bass to the scale Thursday – the largest fish weighed by a boater in the event – to earn the day’s Big Bass award of $107.

Dan Mundy of Swartz Creek, Michigan, won the Co-angler Division Saturday with a three-day total of 15 bass weighing 38 pounds, 12 ounces. Mundy took home the top prize package of a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard motor.

The top 10 co-anglers on Lake Erie finished:

1^st: Dan Mundy of Swartz Creek, Mich., 15 bass, 38-12, Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat w/115-hp outboard

2^nd: Stephen Draghi of Sparrowbush, N.Y., 14 bass, 35-9, $4,114

3^rd: Jared Rudd of Salyersville, Ky., 14 bass, 35-0, $3,291

4^th: Henry McKee of Haddon Heights, N.J., 13 bass, 34-9, $2,880

5^th: Harlan Drephal of New London, Wis., 12 bass, 34-2, $2,468

6^th: Ron Hiles of Piketon, Ohio, 13 bass, 32-6, $2,057

7^th: Eric Wild of Brooklyn, Mich., 13 bass, 32-2, $1,646

8^th: Darwin Griva of Hamilton, Ind., 11 bass, 31-8, $1,440

9^th: John Terry of Lexington, Ohio, 11 bass, 31-3, $1,234

10^th: Cliff Humphreys of Philadelphia, Pa., nine bass, 27-9, $1,064

The Toyota Series at Lake Erie was hosted by the City of Sandusky. It was the first of three regular-season tournaments in 2020 for Northern Division anglers. The next event for Toyota Series anglers will be the Toyota Series at Wheeler Lake in Decatur, Alabama. For a complete schedule, visit FLWFishing.com.

The Toyota Series consists of eight divisions – Central, Eastern, Northern, Plains, Southeastern, Southern, Southwestern and Western – each holding three regular-season events, along with the International division. Anglers who fish all three qualifiers in any of the eight divisions and finish in the top 25 will qualify for the no-entry-fee Toyota Series Championship for a shot at winning $235,000 cash, including a $35,000 FLW PHOENIX Bonus for qualified anglers. The winning co-angler at the championship earns a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard. The 2020 Toyota Series Championship will be held Dec. 3-5 on Lake Cumberland in Burnside, Kentucky, and is hosted by the Somerset Tourist & Convention Commission and the Burnside Tourism Commission.

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.

by AnglersChannel

MLF Pros Field 1765 Pounds, a Bass Pro Tour Record, from Sturgeon Bay

Berkley Pro Keith Poche Caught 112 Pounds to Lead Group B

Photo Courtesy of Major League fishing
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 11, 2020 (Sturgeon Bay, Wisc.) The Bass Pro Tour returned to Sturgeon Bay today for Day One of the Covercraft Stage Five presented by Abu Garcia Group B Qualifying Round bringing in a collective 1,765 pounds on 593 bass. Berkley Pro Keith Poche dominated the second and third Periods to finish the day in first place with 112 pounds, nine ounces. Alton Jones Jr. marched up the score tracker into second place after catching only one fish in the first four hours of competition. Season Points leader Jordan Lee pivoted early to end up in third place. Mike Iaconelli led early in the day’s competition and returned to finish fourth. Group B is off tomorrow, Sunday; Group A returns for the second day of their Qualifying Round where one will win an automatic berth to Wednesday’s Championship Round and 20 anglers will be sent home.

In this event hosted by Destination Sturgeon Bay, the field of 40 Pros secured two Bass Pro Tour records: the most scorable bass in one day and the most weight in one day. Collectively Group B caught 593 scorable (2 pounds or greater) bass, 40 more over Group A’s first-day count, for 1,765 pounds.

Louisiana-resident Keith Poche caught 51 pounds in the third Period alone to secure his 23-pound lead over second place and the fourth Pro of this tournament to cross the century mark (100+ pounds) in one day. After catching a modest six fish in Period one, Poche pivoted in Period two and never looked back, catching the most scorable bass for the day at 44 on a Berkley MaxScent flat worm.

“Today was one of those day’s you’re thankful to have had and thankful that it all worked out,” said Poche as the clock wound down to zero. “I ended up with over 100 pounds and the Berkley MaxScent flat worm has been the absolute deal for me. I found a group and it worked out today; what a day!”

A Louisiana-native and former college football player, Poche’s largest catch came in Period 2 with a four-pound, three-ounce smallmouth. Despite starting this event in 61^st place in Season Points, today’s run could position Poche as a REDCREST qualifier (top 40) if he’s able to maintain his lead.

“I have a day off and hopefully will get back Monday and win the round,” Poche told fans during the General Tire Takeout show. “With a win (Monday) I’ll get into the top 10 Championship Round and a get chance to qualify for REDCREST 2021.”

Alton Jones Jr. ended the day in second place with 89 pounds, seven ounces despite a disappointing first Period. Jones Jr. worked through his waypoints on his Garmin to ultimately find a spot that had not been very productive in practice but a change in wind direction had pushed the fish in his direction. The Texas-native capitalized on it, catching an average of one fish every eight minutes to finish the day with 31 scorable bass.

“I don’t have a whole lot of history up here, but from the history I do have, the fish here move a lot. The wind currents make the fish up and vanish,” said Jones Jr. “I practiced with a south wind and had some good success; but the north wind made my spot a ghost town. I ended up in a place that I had caught a bass or two in practice but with the wind, the fish showed up by the hundreds. There’s a good chance I could go out on Monday and they will all be gone.”

Bass Pro Seasons Points leader Jordan Lee wasted no time in an unproductive spot at the start of the day and his move paid off as he climbed his way into third place with 71 pounds, 12 ounces. Currently 40 pounds, 13 ounces off Poche’s lead, Lee told fans that he is pleased with where he sits going into Monday’s final day of this round.

“I had a great day on the water today, drop-shotting this Berkley flat worm in green pumpkin,” said Lee. “The key for me was finding the bigger rock and milking a spot when I caught a fish. I’m looking forward to Monday; hoping for a good spot but I know (the fish) will move around.”

After an early lead, Mike Iaconelli finished in fourth with 67 pounds, nine ounces just ahead of Skeet Reese (67-03) and Bobby Lane (67-00). Adrian Avena, who finished in 12^th place, landed the Berkley Big Bas of the Day with a five-pound, nine-ounce smallmouth as his first scorable bass of the day. Stephen Browning and Zack Birge straddle the elimination line in 20^th and 21^stplaces respectively. 64 pounds, seven ounces spreads the field from first to 20^th place.

Group B will return to the water on Monday for the final day of their Qualifying Round. The winner of Group B will receive an automatic berth into Wednesday’s Championship Round and the bottom 20 will be eliminated based on their two-day total weight.

The Top Ten of Day One, Qualifying Group B finished as follows:

Place	Angler	Total Weight	Total Fish	Largest Fish
1	Keith Poche	112-09	44	4-03
2	Alton Jones Jr.	89-07	31	4-14
3	Jordan Lee	71-12	24	4-10
4	Mike Iaconelli	67-09	23	4-10
5	Skeet Reese	67-03	22	4-08
6	Bobby Lane	67-00	21	4-09
7	Cliff Pace	66-07	23	4-03
8	Todd Faircloth	64-05	23	3-12
9	Edwin Evers	62-00	24	3-10
10	Cody Meyer	60-11	10	4-07

For complete results, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com, Bass Pro Tour, Results.

The competition continues Sunday when Group A returns to the water for the second day of their Qualifying Round, including Josh Bertrand, Fletcher Shryock, Aaron Martens, and current leader Justin Lucas. The winner of Group A will earn an automatic berth into Wednesday’s Championship Round and places 2-20 will advance into Tuesday’s Knockout Round.

Fans can catch all the action every day of competition (July 10-15) on MLFNOW! livestream on MajorLeagueFishing.com or download the MLF App for your Apple or GooglePlay device or on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV).

by AnglersChannel

Jacob Wheeler on Trailering – Safety and Strategy

Courtesy of Luke Stoner - Dynamic Sponsorships

Wind and waves have been a big part of the conversation for the Covercraft Stage 5 Presented by Abu Garcia, as they are anytime professional bass fishing meets The Great Lakes. Fortunately for the Bass Pro Tour competitors, officials, and media members MLF has implemented a special trailering policy for this week’s competition.

Anglers can launch at any public boat launch within the massive tournament boundaries on Sturgeon Bay, Green Bay and Lake Michigan, and can also put their boat back on the trailer and drive to a different boat ramp during competition hours if they so choose. BPT pros were informed of this policy before practice began and formed their game plans accordingly.

Team Toyota pro Jacob Wheeler is one of many anglers who appreciates the policy for several reasons, namely for saving his equipment and body from the waves abusive toll. The wind has been steady and at times howling from the North throughout practice and the start of Stage 5 competition.

“The reality is bass boats aren’t made for the Great Lakes,” Wheeler laughed. “I love my Triton and I’m thankful to have it out there; it handles big water as good as any bass boat. But make no mistake, I’d much rather drive 30 miles in my Tundra than in my boat when we’re talking big water. It’s easier on my equipment and so much more comfortable for me.”

Safety is paramount but it isn’t the only thing Wheeler likes about the trailering policy; he also appreciates the extra wrinkle in strategy it creates. The Indiana pro is currently in the middle of an incredible hot streak that includes dominating wins at both the Bass Pro Tour and FLW Super Tournament level in 2020.

Wheeler has experienced mind-boggling success throughout his young career and many would attribute that to his detailed understanding of strategy within tournament fishing, along with his tireless work ethic.

“Having the ability to trailer to different ramps throughout the day absolutely adds to my strategy,” Wheeler explained. “Usually when we are fishing big water we have to pick an area and we’re pretty much limited to that decision. The Great Lakes are just too big and too rough to be running around on all day. But trailering gives us the ability to sample different sections of the fishery throughout the day.”

Wheeler is one of many anglers who took advantage of this policy during the Qualifying Round, trailering to a second ramp in the middle of Day 1 of competition in hopes of colliding with a school of ever-elusive smallmouth he found during practice.

The tournament boundaries are so extensive for this event that anglers like Wheeler are still somewhat married to a region of the fishery based upon which boat ramp they initially launch from. But instead of a potential two+ hour brutal boat ride to check another area, Wheeler can make a comfortable twenty-minute drive in his Tundra.

“Just having the option to trailer does good things for our mindset out here,” Wheeler said. “You see us on camera fishing in big waves, but I don’t think most people realize how damaging running big water can be. It pounds our bodies, our equipment, and absolutely affects our decision making on the water. The trailering policy allows us to fish with a clear-mind... it’s the deal.”

by AnglersChannel

Final Stage of the 2020 Bass Pro Tour Brings Recording Breaking Day-One:

Berkley Pro Team SweepsTop 3 with 384-pound, single-day total

Photo Credit Garrick Dixon

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 9, 2020 (Sturgeon Bay, Wisc.) Major League Fishing (MLF) kicked off the Covercraft Stage Five presented by Abu Garcia, the final stage of the 2020 Bass Pro Tour, today on the Wisconsin waters of Lake Michigan with high-paced action. At the end of Period 3, the Berkley Pro Team sat in the top three places after catching a combined total of 384 pounds of scorable smallmouth. First-place finisher, Justin Lucas tallied 141 pounds, nine ounces on 50 fish collecting two MLF records in the process for most weight in a single-day of competition and most weight in one Period. At day’s end, first and 20^th places were separated by 112 pounds. 89 days after undergoing brain surgery, Aaron Martens returned to competition today finishing in 12^thplace. Group B takes to the water tomorrow for their first day of Qualifying Round.

Berkley Pro Justin Lucas opened strong with 78 pounds, 12 ounces at the end of Period 1, an MLF Bass Pro Tour record for most weight caught in a single period. Jacob Wheeler held the previous record with 55 pounds, nine ounces set on the 2019 Bass Pro Tour. Period one started strong for Lucas, who caught 29 fish in 150 minutes, averaging one scorable bass every five minutes before 10:30 a.m. His pace only slowed slightly as he recorded another 70 pounds, 13 ounces to the day with a second MLF record: most single-day weight in Bass Pro Tour competition.

“Two records in the books; we’ll see how long that lasts, there are a lot of fish out here off Sturgeon Bay,” said Lucas. “I’m fired up to come back out here but I’m not expecting that spot to pay off again, which is why I pounded it hard today - all on a Berkley.”

Lucas caught the day’s load on a Berkley MaxScent Flat Worm. The second- and third-place finishers also relied on a drop-shot rig with Berkley soft plastics.

Arizona-resident Josh Bertrand overtook Scott Suggs late in Period 3 to finish in second place with 123 pounds, three ounces on 40 fish. Bertrand caught the bulk of his weight midday with 17 fish for 50 pounds, five ounces in Period 2.

“I started out slow,” said Bertrand. “But it was a really good day. I caught each one on a drop shot. Anytime you come up North you want to bring a flat worm.”

Suggs spent most of the day on the heels of Lucas, including closing Lucas’s lead to only four pounds at one point. He caught only three fish in the final period after landing the day’s Berkley Big Bass (a five-pound, six-ounce smallmouth) at the end of the second Period. With a one-day scorable total of 119 pounds, four ounces on 33 bass, Suggs sits only 22 pounds out of the lead behind Bertrand and Lucas. Three anglers over 100 pounds after the first day of competition left Suggs chuckling to MLFNOW!viewersat lines-out.

“To catch over 100 pounds of (scorable) bass and be in third place – that’s crazy! But that’s what kind of fishery we’re on,” exclaimed Suggs. “I go to a lot of tournaments thinking that I’ve got the fish found and today they were there; it was a fun day.”

Using the same Berkley MaxScent Flat Worm as fellow Berkley Pro Justin Lucas, Suggs shared some insight on a weight strategy that paid off in the Great Lakes, post-spawn today.

“I was fishing a quarter-ounce lighter than what you would think,” Suggs told fans during the General Tire Takeout post-game show. “The fish seem to be suspended offshore so, as the bait falls in slower, they can get up and bite it in the fall.”

The field of 40 Pros caught 553 scorable (2 pounds or greater) bass for a single day total weight of 1,649 pounds, 2 ounces in this event hosted by Destination Sturgeon Bay. Kelly Jordon finished the day in 20^th place 112 pounds behind the leader with 29 pounds, seven ounces. Fletcher Shryock, who entered the Stage in second place for Season Points Championship behind Jordan Lee, ended the day in 18^th place with 39 pounds, six ounces. Aaron Martens returned to competition today after missing Stage Four – Toyota Heavy Hitters presented by Venmo – due to treatment for brain cancer. Less than 90 days after undergoing brain surgery, Martens finished the day in 12^th place with 52 pounds, two ounces.

Group A will return to the water on Sunday for the final day of their Qualifying Round. The winner of Group A will receive an automatic berth into Wednesday’s Championship Round and the bottom 20 will be eliminated based on their two-day total weight.

The Top Ten of Day One, Qualifying Group A finished as follows:

Place	Angler	Total Weight	Total Fish	Largest Fish
1	Justin Lucas	141-09	50	4-03
2	Josh Bertrand	123-03	40	4-07
3	Scott Suggs	119-04	33	5-06
4	Brett Hite	88-14	35	4-05
5	James Elam	76-15	25	4-10
6	Randall Tharp	65-06	21	5-01
7	Jonathon VanDam	64-08	22	3-13
8	Justin Atkins	64-08	26	3-11
9	Dustin Connell	58-06	20	4-02
10	Takahiro Omori	57-09	17	4-14

For complete results, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com, Bass Pro Tour, Results.

The competition continues Saturday when Group B takes to the water for the first day of their Qualifying Round, including current Season Points leader Jordan Lee and Stage One winner Jacob Wheeler.

by AnglersChannel

CBD Brand Medterra Sponsors Major League Fishing

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 9, 2020 (Tulsa, Okla.) Major League Fishing (MLF) announced today that Medterra CBD joined their growing list of sponsors for the 2020 Bass Pro Tour. Based in Irvine, California, Medterra is dedicated to providing fully compliant, high quality CBD products to support everyday wellness through research and innovation. Medterra will sponsor the Stage Five livestream with a “Get Well Moment” feature each day of competition. Specifics of the deal were not disclosed.

“Partnering with Major League Fishing was an easy choice for us,” said Jay Hartenbach, Medterra Founder and CEO. “The market and demographic surrounding the league are in complete alignment with our brand. There is a lot of benefit to be had for professional and amateur anglers alike before, during, and after a day on the water. From a recovery standpoint, CBD has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce muscle and joint soreness associated with the repetitive motions in fishing. We couldn’t be prouder to be the company that provides the angling community the relief they need.”

“We’re pleased to welcome Medterra to our community of sponsors and advertisers,” said Jim Wilburn Major League Fishing President and CEO. “MLF reaches a broad audience of hard-working Americans, who may benefit from CBD solutions through Medterra’s commitment to innovation and care. We’re confident they will expand their customer base through this relationship.”

by AnglersChannel

HOBIE B.O.S. TACKLES THE MIGHTY MISSISSIPPI

Several areas boast great cut banks and overhanging trees, catering to anglers who enjoy flipping and pitching. Several areas boast great cut banks and overhanging trees, catering to anglers who enjoy flipping and pitching.

Elite Field of Kayak Fishing Competitors Gear Up to Battle Bigmouths and Bronzebacks in the Fabled Waters of La Crosse, WI

OCEANSIDE, Calif. (July 1, 2020) - The Hobie B.O.S. (Bass Open Series) has sights set on some mighty big waters for its next event. The premiere kayak bass tournament is sliding into La Crosse, WI, July 11 and 12, to take on the mighty Mississippi River and its burgeoning population of smallmouths and Northern-strain largemouth bass.

“We’ll be fishing pools 7, 8 and 9 for this event, a stretch of the river rich in bass fishing history and incredible opportunities for our anglers,” says Hobie B.O.S. Tournament Director, A.J. McWhorter. “MLF, BASS and FLW have all held major competitions here, and this June saw the 2020 High School Fishing World Finals & National Championships converge on the area. Competitors can expect to test themselves on a true river system that is level, flow-dependent, and full of feisty Northern-strain largemouth bass, bronzebacks and other species. Naturally, we’ll be following COVID-19 requirements for this event. We’ll notify all participants the week of the tournament as to which headquarters and check-in system will be used.”

An exceptionally diverse expanse, this part of the Mississippi River has bass habitat to compliment the strengths of any angler. Covering over 75,000 acres in total, pools 7, 8, and 9 each feature a main river channel, plenty of deep water, ledges, sand bars, islands, rip rap, wing dams, break walls, and seemingly endless backwater areas filled with inviting brush-lined banks, laydowns and shallow, lush, vegetation ranging from weed mats to lily pads. With some serious pre-event scouting, participants should have little problem finding a bit of rested water and a few spots to themselves.

Several areas boast great cut banks and overhanging trees, catering to anglers who enjoy flipping and pitching.

Jeremiah Burish, 31 and Director of Sports Sales & Events for Explore La Crosse, will be a first-time B.O.S. participant in the Mississippi event, and can’t wait to get started. It’s his job to promote these waters, and the experienced tournament kayak angler knows them as well or better than anyone else. “This is one of the best fisheries in the country in terms of combining quantity and quality catches,” he says. “We don’t have the giant fish you might see at Chickamauga or Kissimmee Lake, but we have an outlandish number of fish in the 15- to 19-inch class, and plenty of ways to connect with them. This should be an extremely exciting tournament. I plan to throw a lot of topwater frogs and swim jigs to start, but I’ll certainly switch things up if needed.”

Changing water levels can also make things interesting on the mighty Mississippi, notes Burish. Currently, the river is running at its lowest point since 2017. That, he explains, can make it easier to find the fish since some bass in the shallows will gravitate to deeper pockets. “Being a river system, however, water flow and depth can change overnight – or even hourly – so nobody knows who’s strengths will be favored at any point in the contest,” he cautions. “Of the three pools, number 7 is the most lake-like, so that might be a good place to start your exploration.”

Kevin Workman, 37, a Hobie team member from Arlington, Nebraska, is also looking forward to the Mississippi event. He’s had two top-ten Hobie Bass Open finishes on Kentucky Lake, and fished the Lake Fork, Tennessee B.O.S. event earlier this year. Residing only six hours from La Crosse, he’s looking forward to fishing closer to home and hoping familiarity with these waters will bring him an edge.

“The most important thing you can do here is use your Navionics package and Google Earth to find funnel areas and places that should naturally hold fish,” he advises. “Make those your starting points and then break down the more intimate patterns of structure and depth. Look for the kind of vegetation you enjoy working or, if you prefer to fish deep, a pronounced bend in the channel with a little hump next to it. The waters around La Crosse are famous for frogging largemouths, but bring drop-shot rigs, too, as deeper areas can be loaded with smallmouths.”

Anglers should be wary when throwing moving baits, as they appeal to the toothy predators that claim the Mississippi River as their home. Kristine Fischer with a massive La Crosse northern pike.

Workman fishes out of a Hobie 360 PA14, which he says might be a game-changer for this event because it’s so stable, comfortable and versatile. “This ‘yak excels at positioning in the wind, navigating through trees, and slipping through tight passages. There’s big open water on these pools, and a lot of areas that are squeaky tight in the backwaters. My 360 should help me present baits the best way possible in every situation.”

Tyler Cole, 41, of Hopkinton, Iowa, is another kayak angler making his Hobie B.O.S. debut. He finished 26th in the 2018 Hobie Worlds on Lake Vanern, Sweden. Now he’s hoping to leave his mark on local waters.

“I love this stretch,” states Cole, who lives an hour-and-a-half away. You can fish weeds, rocks, channels, backwaters – it’s just so diverse. You can frog, pitch or flip the shallows for largemouth, and there’s usually a good crankbait bite along the main channels for smallmouth. Being a river also levels the competition somewhat because you can be locked on the fish one day and find them gone the next. Due to the flows, these fish are unpredictable. Plan to have a backup plan for your backup plan should the current strength or water level change.”

Both Burish and Cole say they were drawn to the Mississippi River event after hearing and reading positive reviews from participants in earlier B.O.S. competitions. “I’ve heard reports that these tournaments are well organized, with a lot of camaraderie and positive interaction between the competitors. I also like that each event seems to be focused on promoting and showcasing the anglers and fisheries,” explains Burish.

July is an excellent month to explore the pads and experience a world class froggin' fishery!

Workman says that Burish and Cole are “spot on” with those assessments, and added that significant prize money, and the chance to fish against top-level competition, sweetens the pot.

“I’ve always enjoyed the B.O.S. atmosphere more than any other series,” reveals Workman. “It’s family friendly, well run, and the competition is amazing. It pushes you to be a better angler, which is something I like. For the Mississippi event, the field is already looking sharp. I’d keep my eyes on Kristine Fischer. She’s got experience here and she’s due for another great performance. Jordan Westerman is another strong contender who has done well on these waters. Then there’s Rus Snyder – he won the KBS Trail Series Championship here last year.”

Indeed, the Mississippi event is shaping up to be a nail biter. “I’m expecting a race to the wire for the title,” concludes McWhorter. “There’s a lot on the line. In addition to determining the event champion, there will be significant payouts to the top 10% of the field, and three anglers will qualify for the Hobie Tournament of Champions (TOC). Anglers are also competing for important Angler of the Year points. It’s going to be a tough battle for the top spots, but that brings out the best in our anglers. They wouldn’t have it any other way.”

According to Burish, Hobie B.O.S. participants can expect a warm welcome in La Crosse. “We’ve wanted to host a Hobie event since the first Hobie Bass Open on Kentucky Lake several years ago. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to show off the great fishery here. It’s going to be a ton of fun and the anglers are going to catch a lot of fish.”

Although the La Crosse area still has some COVID-19 restrictions in place, most restaurants currently have take-out and curb-side pick-up available, and some have limited outside seating. Many attractions are open, too, operating with physical distancing guidelines in place. Bring the family if you’d like, for this city is a wonderful place to visit with plenty of open-air outdoor recreation opportunities available, including majestic bluffs and scenic river lookouts. Just be sure to call ahead to any establishment you hope to patronize so you’ll have the latest information on COVID-19 guidelines.

La Crosse has miles and miles of backwaters, making it an appealing fishery for kayak anglers wanting to get away from the crowds.

by AnglersChannel

St. Croix Showcases NEW Xtreme Freshwater Choices at ICAST Online

St. Croix’s most sensitive rods ever, NEW Legend^®Xtreme Freshwater Series expands by angler demand with four new models

Park Falls, WI (July 1, 2020) – Building on the historic and wildly successful March, 2020 Bassmaster Classic launch of St. Croix’s most-sensitive rods ever, four new, made-in-the-USA Legend Xtreme freshwater rod models are being unveiled at ICAST 2020 Online.

Insanely sensitive and awash with St. Croix’s proprietary technologies, these rods are extreme in both design and on-the-water performance. New models include 6’3”, medium power, extra-fast action (XFS63MXF) and 7’6”, medium power, fast action (XFS76MF) spinning rods; and 6’8”, medium power, fast action (XFC68MF) and 6’8”, medium power, extra-fast action (XFC68MXF) casting rods. The expanded Legend Xtreme freshwater series now includes 11 rods – five spinning models and six casting models – supporting anglers in an even wider range of freshwater presentations and techniques with pinnacle St. Croix performance.

Rated for use with 6-12-lb. line and lures from 3/16 to 5/8 oz., the NEW 7’6” medium power, fast action Legend Xtreme spinning (XFS76MF) model is designed and handcrafted as the ultimate utility rod. Serving discriminating freshwater anglers with the utmost in sensitivity to support wide-ranging techniques with plastics, topwaters, jerkbaits, jigging presentations and more, the versatile new XFS76MF’s generous 7’6” length affords long, accurate casts, fast line pickup, and is also ideal for kayak use. The ultra-sensitive XFS76MF is so versatile, in fact, it has been selected by St. Croix for entry into the prestigious 2020 ICAST Online New Product Showcase Awards in the Freshwater Rod category.

The reengineered SCV carbon found in the new Legend Xtreme is an example of St. Croix’s constant drive to obtain the unimaginable – proven Xtreme durability with proven, unprecedented sensitivity – so anglers can fish without compromise. Engineered as a result of a new proprietary manufacturing processes, the new Legend Xtreme employs a resin that significantly increases strength in compression during the hookset, as well as flexural strength when the rod is under load. The new SCV carbon construction also incorporates an improved, overlaid ART (Advanced Reinforcing Technology) to yield the highest levels of carbon fiber density found on any fishing rod on earth. Simply put, the new Legend Xtreme offers an unquestionably pure and dense carbon, to transmit the slightest vibration through a carbon fiber guide train and proprietary new handle, all while achieving a tensile strength never attained in any previous St. Croix fishing rod.

A Blank Slate

The story of the NEW Legend Xtreme begins with the series’ incredibly sensitive blanks, which feature Integrated Poly Curve® (IPC™) mandrel technology and design for more refined powers and actions. IPC adds continuous tapers to eliminate “stepped” transition points to create blanks that are smoother, stronger and more sensitive than traditional designs. They also feature a new and improved version of St. Croix’s Advanced Reinforcing Technology™ (ART™), a high-tensile high-modulus cross-grain material that reinforces the blank and allows for the use of less material while maintaining strength and decreasing weight.

Additionally, Taper Enhancement Technology (TET) blank design provides curved patterns for improved action with increased sensitivity. “We add a little bit of curvature to the patterns to refine the actions of the blanks even more… which is especially noticeable in the extra-fast models,” says St. Croix Engineering Supervisor, Gavin Falk. “Taper Enhancement Technology makes these new rods even smoother.”

New Legend Xtreme rod blanks also feature St. Croix’s most exotic blend of carbon materials. A super high-modulus SCVI carbon in the lower section joins high-modulus/high-strain SCV carbon in the upper section to yield maximum power, unparalleled strength, durability, sensitivity and reduced overall weight. St. Croix’s Fortified Resin System (FRS) is also employed throughout the entire blank. FRS combines a fortified super resin with computer-operated curing ovens that provide improved temperature and time management through all stages of the curing cycle. Ultimately, FRS prevents microbuckling by keeping the carbon fibers in proper alignment throughout the critical curing process. Blanks manufactured with this advanced manufacturing protocol consistently test out at 33% stronger than those built with standard resins and curing methods.

Finally, a new, stealthy, Black Coral finish completes the upgrade to the new Legend Xtreme’s incredibly sensitive, high-performance blank – the ultimate canvas for additional sensitivity-enhancing features and components.

Guiding Principles

Moving beyond their remarkable blanks, new St. Croix Legend Xtreme rods take sensitivity to insane levels via the all-new, exotic Daiwa AGS carbon fiber guide train.

“The Daiwa AGS carbon fiber guides with Fuji KG tip top and torzite ring are brand new to us, and we have the both the knowledge and the exclusive rights to use them,” says Falk. “Their rigid frames are what really set these guides apart and make them so unique. They transfer energy much more efficiently than other traditional guide platforms. Their rigidity increases responsiveness, which is beneficial in every fishing situation… not just the obvious ones; they reduce recovery time when making a cast, for example. The bottom line is that the angler is always feeling what’s happening with their line and lure.”

Think these new carbon guides are weak? Think again.

“Of course, we did strength and durability testing,” says Falk. “They tested much more rigid than a stainless steel guide and frame. And while they don’t bend or deflect like traditional guides, it actually took twice as much force to break them in our testing.”

The end result of pairing the new Legend Xtreme blanks with the Daiwa AGS carbon fiber guides is a rod that goes far beyond what anglers previously considered sensitive. In a way, it feels like there are no guides at all. “When a fish bites, the sensation is intense and immediate,” summarizes Falk, “but the technology doesn’t end there.”

Getting a Handle on Sensitivity

The process of making a rod this sensitive shouldn’t ignore the critical connection point between rod and angler. That’s why St. Croix developed an all-new handle worthy and on par with the rest of the astounding, new Legend Xtreme.

“Our first generation Xtreme-Skin™ handle is an incredible performer, but we wanted to take the opportunity afforded by the new Legend Xtreme launch to improve upon it by creating an even better handle with both improved grip and heightened energy transfer,” says Falk. “We came up with a rain drop coating that offers more friction points, a grippier coating, and not just a smooth surface like the generation before.”

The result is the Gen2 Xtreme-Skin handle, which improves handling in both wet and dry conditions and transmits feedback from the rod better than ever before. It’s also extremely resilient. “Through our salt spray tests we discovered it’s also very easy to clean and very durable,” says Falk, who opted to pair the new handle with the Fuji® SK2™ split reel seat. “The entire handle assembly is lightweight and extremely durable, while complementing the sensitivity of the overall package.”

New* St. Croix Legend Xtreme Models

XFS63MXF* – 6’3”, medium power, extra-fast action spinning / Retail $630
XFS68MXF – 6’8”, medium power, extra-fast action spinning / Retail $630
XFS610MLXF – 6’10”, medium-light power, extra-fast action spinning / Retail $630
XFS70MF – 7’, medium power, fast action spinning / Retail $630
XFS76MF* - 7’6”, medium power, fast action, spinning / Retail $650
XFC68MF* - 6’8”, medium power, fast action, casting / Retail $630
XFS68MXF* - 6’8”, medium power, extra-fast action, casting / Retail $630
XFC70MF – 7’, medium power, fast action casting / Retail $630
XFC70MHF – 7’, medium-heavy power, fast action casting / Retail $640
XFC71MHXF – 7’1”, medium-heavy power, extra-fast action casting / Retail $640
XFC74HF – 7’4”, heavy power, fast action casting / Retail $650

* ICAST 2020 Introduction, Freshwater Rod New Product Showcase entry in bold

New St. Croix Legend Xtreme Features

Blending St. Croix’s highest-grade materials and proprietary technologies with Daiwa AGS^TM guides, the Legend Xtreme has extreme sensitivity that begs to be fished
Integrated Poly Curve® (IPC™) mandrel technology
Advanced Reinforcing Technology™ (ART™)
Taper Enhancement Technology (TET) blank design provides curved patterns for improved action with increased sensitivity
Super high-modulus SCVI carbon with FRS in lower section for maximum power and strength with reduced weight
New proprietary manufacturing processes uses a resin that significantly increases strength in compression during the hookset and flexural strength as the rod is under load
SCV incorporates externally overlaid ART™Technology to construct the highest level of carbon fiber density ever used by St. Croix
Daiwa AGS^TM Carbon Fiber Guides with Fuji KG Tip Top with Torzite ring
Fuji® SK2™ split reel seat for the ultimate in light weight and sensitivity
2^nd Generation Xtreme-Skin™ handle provides unparalleled control
Kigan titanium hook-keeper.
Machined wind check, handle trim pieces and butt cap.
Two coats of Flex-Coat slow sure finish.
15-year transferable warranty backed by St. Croix Superstar Service.
Designed and handcrafted in Park Falls, U.S.A.
Retail price $630 to $650

#STCROIXRODS

by AnglersChannel

You’ve Never Worn a Fishing Shirt Like This

Gill’s new Overton Shirt fuses comfort and technology like no other

Buford, GA (July 3, 2020) – Today, fishing shirts are a dime a dozen. Originally conceived and constructed for actual fishing situations, much of what you see on the market are mere facsimiles, not offering features and solutions to improve your time on the water.

Gill, as they have since 1975, creates original marine garments that improve the fishing and boating experience. The new Overton Shirt is a prime example.

Beyond its classic looks, the Overton Shirt is beset with technology and genuine features, and designed to fit loosely and comfortably. Beginning with advanced applications, the Overton Shirt utilizes Xpel® technology, a Gill exclusive. The safe, plant-based coating repels water and stains like blood, guts, slime and oil. Make a mess on your Overton Shirt, and simply rinse it off with water. Like new again.

Gill Technical Manager Lowri Jones speaks to the Overton Shirt’s material and proprietary treatment: “We settled on a premium, comfortable nylon fabric due to its compatibility with the Xpel treatment. Not only does the fabric remain breathable, but its performance level is enhanced with Xpel. Now, the fabric not only repels water, but also sheds some of the toughest stains we have ever tested in our lab.”

Top to bottom, the Overton Shirt defines quality and is loaded with practical elements. Its stylish button-down collar is designed to conceal the actual buttons, giving the shirt a refined look. Adding form and function, the exceptional fishing shirt features press stud fasteners down the chest for easy on and off. Uniquely, the press stud fasteners are attached to the inner placket (fabric strip down the chest), while the outer placket has buttonholes for the buttons to pass through. Clever and purposeful.

The same principal and application is found above the cuff, too. A placket inside the arms near the elbow lets you roll up and button the sleeve for fishing in warmer weather, and to create a stylish look. Each cuff also has double press stud fasteners to securely hold the sleeves in place when fully extended.

Universally, the press stud fasteners are hidden, too. This not only yields exceptionally clean aesthetics, but serves function as well. With no exposed buttons, you reduce the hazard of snagging any catchpoints while casting, setting the hook or reeling up a fish. But if you happen to snag the material, the stud pops open to thwart tearing fabric or losing buttons.

Gill’s Overton Shirt sports a pair of roomy, practical chest pockets with press stud fasteners and embroidered eyelets. Adjacent to the left chest pocket is a self-fabric strip to hang sunglasses or small fishing tools, like hemostats and forceps.

Speaking of sunglasses, the fishing shirt includes a micro-fiber patch on the inside of the front bottom hem for quick wipe downs of your lenses.

Lastly, and critically important to performance, the Overton Shirt has a double vented mesh line in back, between the shoulders, letting the shirt breath and wind to pass through while cutting across the water.

Gill’s Overton Shirt is available in Blue Check and White, sizes ranging from XS to 4XL. MSRP is $70 USD.

ICAST NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE: Lifestyle Apparel for Men

by AnglersChannel

Strike King Lure Company 2021 New Product Showcase

by AnglersChannel

NetBait Strengthens Bait Line up with the all new Flex Worm!

OCEAN SPRINGS, Miss. (July 10, 2020) When fishing pressure is high, anglers need to be flexible on the baits they throw to generate bites. Finicky fish require finesse presentations that look ultra-realistic, and the all new Flex Worm delivers, with lifelike movement that they cannot resist. Relying on an innovative manufacturing process that allows for perfection in bait lamination, the Flex Worm brings premium color features to a finesse style bait.

The Flex Worm is designed with a solid front end profile in the first 1.5” of the bait to ensure a stable hook insertion for Texas rig or shaky head presentations, The solid front end immediately transitions into a tapering ball & joint body design which gives the bait its Flex.

The innovative ball & joint design creates an extremely flexible mid-body action that alternates with the tail of the bait to create a constant undulating, swimming movement making the bait appear alive. Designed for Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass fishing, the ultra-realistic Flex Worm is Available in 5” and 7” sizes and 10 colors.

“There is nothing that works and moves like the Flex Worm available on the market today.” said NetBait Tackle President Justin Sward. “With the action that comes along with the unique ball & joint design, we’ve made the Flex Worm unbeatable in a variety of fishing presentations!”

Launching through Virtual ICAST 2020, NetBait Tackle Flex Worm is available now and will be offered in updated clamshell packages designed to give anglers full visibility of each bait profile and color.

For more information about any of our new products for 2020/21, visit www.netbait.com

by AnglersChannel

Daiwa Expands Tatula Baitcasting Line

New TATULA 300 offers discerning anglers premium performance for fishing big baits

Cypress, CA (July 9, 2020) – Just when you thought the in-demand Tatula reel family couldn’t get any better, Daiwa unleashes the new Tatula 300, a true 300-size reel for throwing big bass baits. Daiwa’s progressive product development team redesigned the new Tatula to bring anglers a slightly larger option perfect for a variety of applications including outsized, deep-diving crankbaits, swimbaits, A rigs, and more. In short, it’s the perfect option for anglers fishing large presentations for even larger fish…

What really makes The Daiwa Tatula 300 so special is the inclusion of the T-Wing System level-wind. When you take the reel out of gear it allows for less resistance on the line, allowing the line to cast further. Daiwa’s spool lets anglers finely tune the spool tension while the T-Wing System level-wind opens up line feed, working together to cast longer, more accurately, and provide stress-free control when chunking into the wind, skipping baits or casting large lures. The T-Wing System is also very efficient at reducing backlashes on the 300-size reel with large spool. It does this by reducing the angle of the line coming off the spool and spool speed, providing efficient operation unlike anything on the market in this reel class.

The new Tatula 300 also features Daiwa’s patented Magforce Z magnetic casting system which is located on the exterior of the reel making adjustments easy depending on wind conditions, the rods you’re fishing, and overall aerodynamics of the baits you’re throwing.

Internally, the reel has much bigger gears for handing big baits and fish, necessitated by the aluminum frame which allows space for the larger gears in precise alignment, and subsequently, much more power and torque. Besides the aluminum frame, the Tatula 300 also features an aluminum side plate. The non-handle side is graphite to reduce the overall weight of the reel.

On the drag side of things, anglers will be impressed with the Ultimate Tournament Drag (UTD™), which offers a truly exceptional amount of maximum drag at 28.7 lbs. Most competitive 300-size low profile reels max out at about 22 lbs.

Comfort is enhanced with Soft Touch handle knobs and a large 110mm heavy cranking power handle which provides a steady grip for all fishing scenarios.

The reel also features a 43mm aluminum deep spool that easily accommodates a full spool of heavy monofilament or braid.

Anglers will also notice how smooth the reel operates, thanks to two corrosion-resistant ball bearings, five regular shielded ball bearings, and one anti-reverse bearing.

The 300 size Tatula is available in Standard (6.3:1), High Speed (7.1:1) and Hyper Speed (8.1:1). And all gear ratios come in both left- and right-hand models.

When you’re considering a slightly larger palmable baitcaster, look no further than Daiwa’s new TATULA 300…a reel that is set to bring a whole new level of efficiency to fishing large baits for big fish.

TATULA 300 Features:

Aluminum Frame for strength, rigidity and smooth performance
T-Wing System (TWS)
43mm Aluminum Deep Spool
Ultimate Tournament Drag (UTD)
110mm Heavy Cranking Power Handle
Jet Black Finish with Daiwa logo
Available Gear Ratios (6.3:1) (7.1:1) (8.1:1)

MSRP $269.99

by AnglersChannel

Dobson Leads Toyota Series on Erie with 20 pound limit!

Courtesy of FLWFishing.com

July 9, 2020 by Jody White

The weights on day one of the Toyota Series Northern Division event on Lake Erie were about what folks expected: plenty of quality fish, but a lack of the plump 4- and 5-pounders that Erie is so known for. Weighing one of only two bags over 20 pounds, Scott Dobson put 20-12 on the scale after a day of fishing that took him as far from Sandusky as the mouth of the St. Clair River.

Using all his significant wiles, Dobson took advantage of very smooth conditions to catch fish in St. Clair, at the mouth of the St. Clair River, in the Detroit River and Lake Erie. Though his best work happened in St. Clair, he wouldn’t have had 20 pounds without a 4-pounder from Erie at the end of the day.

“I started on a relatively shallow spot and I caught a good one and a decent one on a swimbait,” says Dobson. “Then they kinda stopped biting. There was a massive mayfly hatch; it was like the locust invasion. They were everywhere. We were covered in bugs and fish were coming up slurping, but they’re super hard to catch when they’re slurping in deeper water.

“So, I ran to a mayfly break and I caught another one and had one follow my jerkbait. Then I went to a current spot and I caught two good ones and a couple more mediocre ones. Then I went to the big ones, off the Mile Roads, and they weren’t biting. We fished around, and Gary finally caught a limit, but I didn’t know how rough it was going to be, so we ran and got gas at about 11:45.”

After getting gas, Dobson stopped and fished in the Detroit River some and then ran to the islands in Erie for his final quality fish to end a somewhat lackluster day.

“It was very uneventful,” says Dobson. “I hadn’t been up to St. Clair since Friday, but my team partner had been out and said they were snapping. Well, they weren’t snapping today.”

Still, a swimbait, jerkbait and drop-shot put 20 pounds in the boat, and Dobson plans on making the big run again if he can.

“If it’s calm, I’m going to go. If I make it back, I make it back,” he says. “I don’t think I can catch more than 15 pounds out here. It’s tough, and it’s painful. You have to throw a Ned rig next to a boulder and just park it there.”

Top 10 pros

1. Scott Dobson – Clarkston, Mich. – 20-12 (5)

2. Buck Mallory – Lawton, Mich. – 20-6 (5)

3. Josh Kolodzaike – Toledo, Ohio – 19-13 (5)

4. Dick Parker – Lorain, Ohio – 19-5 (5)

5. Drew Sanford – Springfield, Mo. – 19-2 (5)

6. Neal Ramsey – Harrison, Ohio – 18-15 (5)

7. AJ Slegona – Pine Bush, N.Y. – 18-6 (5)

8. Chad Brousseau – Colchester, Vt. – 18-5 (5)

9. Troy Stokes – Brownstown, Mich. – 18-4 (5)

10. Matt Becker – Finleyville, Penn. – 18-2 (5)

Complete results

1	SCOTT DOBSON	CLARKSTON, MI	20 - 12 (5)	20 - 12 (5)	20 - 12 (5)	20 - 12 (5)
2	BUCK MALLORY	LAWTON, MI	20 - 6 (5)	20 - 6 (5)	20 - 6 (5)	20 - 6 (5)
3	JOSH KOLODZAIKE	TOLEDO, OH	19 - 13 (5)	19 - 13 (5)	19 - 13 (5)	19 - 13 (5)
4	DICK PARKER	LORAIN, OH	19 - 5 (5)	19 - 5 (5)	19 - 5 (5)	19 - 5 (5)
5	DREW SANFORD	SPRINGFIELD, MO	19 - 2 (5)	19 - 2 (5)	19 - 2 (5)	19 - 2 (5)
6	NEAL RAMSEY	HARRISON, OH	18 - 15 (5)	18 - 15 (5)	18 - 15 (5)	18 - 15 (5)
7	AJ SLEGONA	PINE BUSH, NY	18 - 6 (5)	18 - 6 (5)	18 - 6 (5)	18 - 6 (5)
8	CHAD BROUSSEAU	COLCHESTER, VT	18 - 5 (5)	18 - 5 (5)	18 - 5 (5)	18 - 5 (5)
9	TROY STOKES	BROWNSTOWN, MI	18 - 4 (5)	18 - 4 (5)	18 - 4 (5)	18 - 4 (5)
10	MATT BECKER	FINLEYVILLE, PA	18 - 2 (5)	18 - 2 (5)	18 - 2 (5)	18 - 2 (5)
11	RYAN DAVIDSON	BRANCHLAND, WV	17 - 14 (5)	17 - 14 (5)	17 - 14 (5)	17 - 14 (5)
12	MATTHEW KIEFER	FORT WAYNE, IN	17 - 12 (5)	17 - 12 (5)	17 - 12 (5)	17 - 12 (5)
13	JONATHAN KELLEY	OLD FORGE, PA	17 - 7 (5)	17 - 7 (5)	17 - 7 (5)	17 - 7 (5)
13	STEVE YORK	BRONSON, MI	17 - 7 (5)	17 - 7 (5)	17 - 7 (5)	17 - 7 (5)
15	MARK PEISER	PITTSBORO, IN	17 - 6 (5)	17 - 6 (5)	17 - 6 (5)	17 - 6 (5)
16	LEE ROGERS	NEWTON, NJ	17 - 3 (5)	17 - 3 (5)	17 - 3 (5)	17 - 3 (5)
17	JOE LUCARELLI	CENTER HARBOR, NH	17 - 1 (5)	17 - 1 (5)	17 - 1 (5)	17 - 1 (5)
18	JONATHAN DIETZ	CORRY, PA	17 - 0 (5)	17 - 0 (5)	17 - 0 (5)	17 - 0 (5)
19	CHASE SERAFIN	WHITE LAKE, MI	16 - 14 (5)	16 - 14 (5)	16 - 14 (5)	16 - 14 (5)
20	CODY PIKE	POWHATAN, VA	16 - 12 (5)	16 - 12 (5)	16 - 12 (5)	16 - 12 (5)
21	JACOB BIGELOW	CECIL, WI	16 - 11 (5)	16 - 11 (5)	16 - 11 (5)	16 - 11 (5)
21	JUSTIN HICKS	ROANOKE, VA	16 - 11 (5)	16 - 11 (5)	16 - 11 (5)	16 - 11 (5)
23	JASON KERVIN	RAYMOND, ME	16 - 10 (5)	16 - 10 (5)	16 - 10 (5)	16 - 10 (5)
23	WAYNE VAUGHAN	CHESTER, VA	16 - 10 (5)	16 - 10 (5)	16 - 10 (5)	16 - 10 (5)
25	DREW SIX	CLINTON, OH	16 - 9 (5)	16 - 9 (5)	16 - 9 (5)	16 - 9 (5)
26	PAUL KIMBALL	GLASTONBURY, CT	16 - 7 (5)	16 - 7 (5)	16 - 7 (5)	16 - 7 (5)	$107
27	STEVE CLAPPER	GYPSUM, OH	16 - 6 (5)	16 - 6 (5)	16 - 6 (5)	16 - 6 (5)
28	JOHN DAWSON	MOUNT VERNON, OH	16 - 4 (5)	16 - 4 (5)	16 - 4 (5)	16 - 4 (5)
29	KERRY FREY	MIDDLEBURY, IN	16 - 3 (5)	16 - 3 (5)	16 - 3 (5)	16 - 3 (5)
29	DONALD TRIPOLI	WEBSTER, NY	16 - 3 (5)	16 - 3 (5)	16 - 3 (5)	16 - 3 (5)
31	GARY GINTER	BELLEFONTAINE, OH	16 - 2 (5)	16 - 2 (5)	16 - 2 (5)	16 - 2 (5)
32	EDWARD LEVIN	WESTERVILLE, OH	16 - 1 (5)	16 - 1 (5)	16 - 1 (5)	16 - 1 (5)
33	TONY MITCHELL	PLAINWELL, MI	15 - 13 (5)	15 - 13 (5)	15 - 13 (5)	15 - 13 (5)
34	JIM VITARO	WOOSTER, OH	15 - 10 (5)	15 - 10 (5)	15 - 10 (5)	15 - 10 (5)
34	CLIFF BLACKFORD	ADDISON, MI	15 - 10 (5)	15 - 10 (5)	15 - 10 (5)	15 - 10 (5)
36	JOHN HAUSERMAN	TOWSON, MD	15 - 9 (5)	15 - 9 (5)	15 - 9 (5)	15 - 9 (5)
37	KURT MITCHELL	MILFORD, DE	15 - 7 (5)	15 - 7 (5)	15 - 7 (5)	15 - 7 (5)
37	ALLEX CONNER	DELAWARE, OH	15 - 7 (5)	15 - 7 (5)	15 - 7 (5)	15 - 7 (5)
39	RANDY RAMSEY	BURLINGTON, MI	15 - 5 (5)	15 - 5 (5)	15 - 5 (5)	15 - 5 (5)
40	DON ROBERTS	BELLVILLE, OH	15 - 4 (5)	15 - 4 (5)	15 - 4 (5)	15 - 4 (5)
40	FRANK POIRIER	NORTH PRINCE GEORGE, VA	15 - 4 (5)	15 - 4 (5)	15 - 4 (5)	15 - 4 (5)
42	NICK RADTKE	GREENWOOD LAKE, NY	15 - 0 (5)	15 - 0 (5)	15 - 0 (5)	15 - 0 (5)
43	JACOB JARRELL	CROWN CITY, OH	14 - 13 (5)	14 - 13 (5)	14 - 13 (5)	14 - 13 (5)
44	JADE KEETON	FLORENCE, AL	14 - 12 (5)	14 - 12 (5)	14 - 12 (5)	14 - 12 (5)
45	NEIL DELEEUW	FENWICK, ON	14 - 9 (5)	14 - 9 (5)	14 - 9 (5)	14 - 9 (5)
46	CRAIG SAYLOR	OAK HILL, OH	14 - 7 (5)	14 - 7 (5)	14 - 7 (5)	14 - 7 (5)
46	CHARLIE HARTLEY	GROVE CITY, OH	14 - 7 (5)	14 - 7 (5)	14 - 7 (5)	14 - 7 (5)
48	JASON BURGER	BRIDGETON, NJ	14 - 6 (5)	14 - 6 (5)	14 - 6 (5)	14 - 6 (5)
49	DYLAN DREPHAL	BLACK CREEK, WI	14 - 4 (5)	14 - 4 (5)	14 - 4 (5)	14 - 4 (5)
50	LEO REITER	GREENUP, IL	14 - 2 (4)	14 - 2 (4)	14 - 2 (4)	14 - 2 (4)
51	JASON KINNER	EAST POINT, KY	14 - 1 (5)	14 - 1 (5)	14 - 1 (5)	14 - 1 (5)
52	SCOTT COOKE	MARENGO, OH	13 - 15 (5)	13 - 15 (5)	13 - 15 (5)	13 - 15 (5)
53	DAN GROVE, JR	HARRISVILLE, PA	13 - 14 (5)	13 - 14 (5)	13 - 14 (5)	13 - 14 (5)
54	SHANE HATCH	OWLSHEAD, ME	13 - 12 (5)	13 - 12 (5)	13 - 12 (5)	13 - 12 (5)
54	FORREST SMITH	BALTIMORE, OH	13 - 12 (5)	13 - 12 (5)	13 - 12 (5)	13 - 12 (5)
56	ANDREW BUSS	NORTH LIBERTY, IN	13 - 9 (5)	13 - 9 (5)	13 - 9 (5)	13 - 9 (5)
57	TIM WILSON	MARION, IN	13 - 8 (5)	13 - 8 (5)	13 - 8 (5)	13 - 8 (5)
58	CHARLES SIM	NEPEAN, ON	13 - 7 (5)	13 - 7 (5)	13 - 7 (5)	13 - 7 (5)
58	MANDEL PETTUS	ROCKY POINT, NY	13 - 7 (5)	13 - 7 (5)	13 - 7 (5)	13 - 7 (5)
60	JONATHAN FULTON	RAY, OH	13 - 5 (5)	13 - 5 (5)	13 - 5 (5)	13 - 5 (5)
61	HEATH TOLER	WALNUT COVE, NC	13 - 3 (5)	13 - 3 (5)	13 - 3 (5)	13 - 3 (5)
62	DAVID KRANZ	WOODSTOCK, IL	13 - 2 (5)	13 - 2 (5)	13 - 2 (5)	13 - 2 (5)
62	RICHARD GROSSE	THORNVILLE, OH	13 - 2 (5)	13 - 2 (5)	13 - 2 (5)	13 - 2 (5)
64	JAMES WHEELER	VALPARAISO, IN	13 - 0 (4)	13 - 0 (4)	13 - 0 (4)	13 - 0 (4)
65	KIRK MCMULLEN	GREENSBURG, PA	12 - 14 (5)	12 - 14 (5)	12 - 14 (5)	12 - 14 (5)
66	ROBERT GROSSE	THORNVILLE, OH	12 - 10 (5)	12 - 10 (5)	12 - 10 (5)	12 - 10 (5)
67	DAN CORNELIUS	GLENMOORE, PA	12 - 9 (5)	12 - 9 (5)	12 - 9 (5)	12 - 9 (5)
68	CODY SEEGER	LEWISTOWN, OH	12 - 8 (5)	12 - 8 (5)	12 - 8 (5)	12 - 8 (5)
68	BRIAN TYLER	JOHNSONVILLE, SC	12 - 8 (5)	12 - 8 (5)	12 - 8 (5)	12 - 8 (5)
70	RON JOHNSON	CHANDLER, AZ	12 - 4 (5)	12 - 4 (5)	12 - 4 (5)	12 - 4 (5)
70	ZACH GOUTREMOUT	CHAUMONT, NY	12 - 4 (5)	12 - 4 (5)	12 - 4 (5)	12 - 4 (5)
70	MATT HICKS	EVINGTON, VA	12 - 4 (5)	12 - 4 (5)	12 - 4 (5)	12 - 4 (5)
73	PAT UPTHAGROVE	MONROE, MI	12 - 3 (5)	12 - 3 (5)	12 - 3 (5)	12 - 3 (5)
74	BRET LOOMIS	GROVELAND, NY	12 - 2 (5)	12 - 2 (5)	12 - 2 (5)	12 - 2 (5)
75	DAKOTA EBARE	DENHAM SPRINGS, LA	12 - 0 (5)	12 - 0 (5)	12 - 0 (5)	12 - 0 (5)
76	LUCAS BOGOSIAN	HARRINGTON PARK, NJ	11 - 15 (4)	11 - 15 (4)	11 - 15 (4)	11 - 15 (4)
76	RONALD MARTINEZ JR.	WALTON HILLS, OH	11 - 15 (5)	11 - 15 (5)	11 - 15 (5)	11 - 15 (5)
78	HUGH COSCULLUELA	THE WOODLANDS, TX	11 - 13 (5)	11 - 13 (5)	11 - 13 (5)	11 - 13 (5)
78	RUSS SIMPSON	GIVEN, WV	11 - 13 (5)	11 - 13 (5)	11 - 13 (5)	11 - 13 (5)
78	CHRISTIAN MAZZOLA	WALNUTPORT, PA	11 - 13 (5)	11 - 13 (5)	11 - 13 (5)	11 - 13 (5)
81	DANGER KELLY	SOMERSET, KY	11 - 12 (5)	11 - 12 (5)	11 - 12 (5)	11 - 12 (5)
82	COLE HARRIS	ESSEX JUNCTION, VT	11 - 11 (5)	11 - 11 (5)	11 - 11 (5)	11 - 11 (5)
82	MICHAEL MILLER	CANAL WINCHESTER, OH	11 - 11 (5)	11 - 11 (5)	11 - 11 (5)	11 - 11 (5)
82	JOSHUA BARR	LOUISVILLE, OH	11 - 11 (4)	11 - 11 (4)	11 - 11 (4)	11 - 11 (4)
85	CHRIS KING	SOUTH AMHERST, OH	11 - 10 (4)	11 - 10 (4)	11 - 10 (4)	11 - 10 (4)
86	TOMMY ROBINSON	WESTLAND, MI	11 - 8 (5)	11 - 8 (5)	11 - 8 (5)	11 - 8 (5)
87	BRANDON JOHNSON	MOUNT STERLING, KY	11 - 4 (5)	11 - 4 (5)	11 - 4 (5)	11 - 4 (5)
87	ALEX REDWINE	CINCINNATI, OH	11 - 4 (5)	11 - 4 (5)	11 - 4 (5)	11 - 4 (5)
89	SHAYNE MCFARLIN	MARTIN, GA	10 - 14 (4)	10 - 14 (4)	10 - 14 (4)	10 - 14 (4)
90	LOUIS MARTINEZ	ANNAPOLIS, MD	10 - 12 (5)	10 - 12 (5)	10 - 12 (5)	10 - 12 (5)
91	ED CASEY	WHITEFORD, MD	10 - 1 (4)	10 - 1 (4)	10 - 1 (4)	10 - 1 (4)
92	RYAN INGALLS	MANASSAS, VA	9 - 15 (5)	9 - 15 (5)	9 - 15 (5)	9 - 15 (5)
93	JOE KINCHEN	CHARLOTTE, NC	8 - 14 (4)	8 - 14 (4)	8 - 14 (4)	8 - 14 (4)
94	RANDY KUKRAL	CHAGRIN FALLS, OH	8 - 7 (3)	8 - 7 (3)	8 - 7 (3)	8 - 7 (3)
95	ANGEL ROSARIO	KALAMAZOO, MI	8 - 5 (4)	8 - 5 (4)	8 - 5 (4)	8 - 5 (4)
96	MATT GREENBLATT	PORT ST LUCIE, FL	8 - 4 (3)	8 - 4 (3)	8 - 4 (3)	8 - 4 (3)
97	DARRYL ESTERLY	FLEETWOOD, PA	8 - 1 (3)	8 - 1 (3)	8 - 1 (3)	8 - 1 (3)
98	HAROLD MARIETTA	HUNKER, PA	7 - 12 (3)	7 - 12 (3)	7 - 12 (3)	7 - 12 (3)
99	WILLIAM DENNISON III	WILLOUGHBY HILLS, OH	7 - 7 (3)	7 - 7 (3)	7 - 7 (3)	7 - 7 (3)
100	JARRETT MARTIN	WESTERVILLE, OH	6 - 15 (3)	6 - 15 (3)	6 - 15 (3)	6 - 15 (3)
101	TOM BELINDA	HOLIDAYSBURG, PA	6 - 14 (3)	6 - 14 (3)	6 - 14 (3)	6 - 14 (3)
101	DANIEL URBINO	BLISS, NY	6 - 14 (3)	6 - 14 (3)	6 - 14 (3)	6 - 14 (3)
103	RICK CHENOWETH	FREDERICKSBURG, VA	6 - 9 (3)	6 - 9 (3)	6 - 9 (3)	6 - 9 (3)
104	JOSEPH STOIS SR.	FAIRVIEW PARK, OH	6 - 1 (3)	6 - 1 (3)	6 - 1 (3)	6 - 1 (3)
105	TODD HAHN	HEATH, OH	5 - 13 (2)	5 - 13 (2)	5 - 13 (2)	5 - 13 (2)
106	REMINGTON BARKLEY	HARTLAND, MI	5 - 8 (2)	5 - 8 (2)	5 - 8 (2)	5 - 8 (2)
107	BURLEY WARF	MONETA, VA	4 - 15 (2)	4 - 15 (2)	4 - 15 (2)	4 - 15 (2)
108	JASON ROOT	FOSTORIA, OH	4 - 13 (2)	4 - 13 (2)	4 - 13 (2)	4 - 13 (2)
109	STEVE CROWLEY	INVERNESS, FL	4 - 8 (2)	4 - 8 (2)	4 - 8 (2)	4 - 8 (2)
110	KIRK SULLIVAN	MINDEN, ON	4 - 2 (1)	4 - 2 (1)	4 - 2 (1)	4 - 2 (1)
111	SHAWN O'MALLEY	FOGELSVILLE, PA	4 - 0 (2)	4 - 0 (2)	4 - 0 (2)	4 - 0 (2)
111	JOHN TRASK	RUTHERFORDTON, NC	4 - 0 (2)	4 - 0 (2)	4 - 0 (2)	4 - 0 (2)
113	JOHN WATTS	FLUSHING, MI	3 - 0 (1)	3 - 0 (1)	3 - 0 (1)	3 - 0 (1)
114	ROBERT GRABOW	MORGANTOWN, WV	2 - 7 (1)	2 - 7 (1)	2 - 7 (1)	2 - 7 (1)

by AnglersChannel

Final Stage of 2020 Bass Pro Tour Starts Friday: Major League Fishing Pros Battle on Lake Michigan for Stage Title and Season Champ

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 9, 2020 (Sturgeon Bay, Wisc.) The Bass Pro Tour Covercraft Stage Five presented by Abu Garcia hosted by Destination Sturgeon Bay will stream live on MLFNOW! July 10-15, 2020, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. CT daily. The 80 best professional anglers in the world will compete for the Stage Title as well as the Season Points Champion. Stage Five will also determine who qualifies for the 2021 REDCREST and Heavy Hitters events. 29-year-old Jordan Lee leads the race for Points Champion with Fletcher Shryock, Jacob Wheeler and Ott DeFoe rounding out the top four.

Major League Fishing (MLF) returned to competition in June following a mid-season pause to minimize the spread of the coronavirus. An inherently socially distant sport, MLF’s catch-weigh-immediately release format eliminates the need for a weigh-in/central gathering in competition. The League also implemented guidelines to protect and respect competitors, essential staff, and the host community including social distancing, face coverings, and the cancelation of fan events. For Sturgeon Bay, the League has also implemented their trailering policy, usually reserved for instances of weather, to decentralize anglers as they launch and return their boats from the competition field.

MLF worked with Destination Sturgeon Bay to host this final Stage after travel restrictions in Vermont forced a change from the previously announced location.

“We are beyond excited to welcome Major League Fishing to Sturgeon Bay, Door County for their final tournament of the season,” said Pam Seiler, Destination Sturgeon Bay Executive Director. “Being able to jump in to assist with the last-minute location change, we know that anglers and fans alike will love what Sturgeon Bay, Door County has to offer. We’re looking forward to seeing the pros catch record-setting bass as many anglers return for a second visit to our area and appreciate the opportunity to host as we know that this tournament will be of great economic value to our local businesses and community.”

Covercraft Stage Five presented by Abu Garcia will determine the 2020 Bass Pro Tour Points Champion. Berkley Pro Jordan Lee leads the field with 276 points. Fletcher Shryock sits in second place with 269 points and Jordan Wheeler is closely behind at 267 points. Points are awarded at each stage of the 2020 Bass Pro Tour by place through the field of 80 (80 points for finishing first, 79 points for second place, and so on). To view the complete standings, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com/standing.

Veteran angler Kevin VanDam enters Stage Five in 15^th place and recently told reporters of the importance of this week’s event.

“This really is the most important event of our season,” said VanDam, a four-time Bassmaster Classic winner. “Stage Five determines our Season Points Champion, REDCREST qualifiers, and now the 2021 Heavy Hitters qualifiers. A lot is on the line this week for each Pro. It’s going to be a great event to watch!”

The top 40 anglers in season-long points qualify for REDCREST, the Bass Pro Tour Championship, scheduled for February 21-29, 2020 on Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees, hosted by Tulsa Regional Tourism. Mike McClelland (41^st), Fred “Boom Boom” Roumbanis (42^nd), and Lake Erie’s Dave Lefebre (43^rd) sit within striking distance of James Elam (38^th), Justin Atkins (39^th), and James “Worldwide” Watson (40^th). Aaron Martens currently sits in 46^th place despite missing Stage Four while undergoing treatment for brain cancer. Only 92 days after undergoing life-saving brain surgery, Martens returns to fish this, the final stage. Before his diagnosis, Martens finished in the top 20 at Stages One and Three earlier this year. For the complete standings, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com/standing.

MLF recently announced that Toyota Heavy Hitters presented by Venmo will return in 2021. To qualify, each Pro’s largest catch of each Stage of the 2020 Bass Pro Tour (five Stages) is tallied. The 40 anglers with the heaviest “bag” qualify for the 2021 special event, featuring over $750,000 in payouts. The payout schedule includes big-fish bonuses per round, which can make one fish worth $100,000. Jordan Lee, winner of the inaugural Heavy Hitters event on the Kissimmee Chain June 7-12, leads the field with 30 pounds, four ounces on four bass. Andy Morgan (26-14), Takahiro Omori (26-12), and Michael Neal (26-9) sit nearby in second through fourth place.

Covercraft Stage Five presented by Abu Garcia hosted by Destination Sturgeon Bay will air on Discovery Channel as two, two-hour original episodes September 26 and October 3, 2020. For additional details, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com/tv-schedule.

by AnglersChannel

Holiday Hangover

This week Chris and the boys are still trying to recover from the holiday weekend. Bassmaster Elite Series Pro Matt Arey joins the show to talk about life on the Elite Series side of life and more. David talks Sportsmans Bass Wrap up, Jason previews upcoming events and Kenneth, well he's just Kenneth. Ya'll hit play!

by AnglersChannel

American Baitworks Pros Take 3 of Top 10 in Renegade Bass Tour on Dog Lake

American Baitworks’ Team of Kyle Healy and Adam Howell Take the win with 21.75lbs

July 8, 2020, Ocean Springs, Mississippi – Hot weather made for even hotter fishing at Stop 1 of the 2020 Canadian Elite Series - Renegade Bass Tour on Whitefish, Cranberry and Dog Lakes this past Saturday. Taking 18+ pounds to make the Top 10, shows that the fishing is good and the competition is tough.

American Baitworks Pros Kyle Healy and Adam Howell represented NetBait, Scum Frog, Freedom Tackle, Halo Rods and STH Bait Co. well, taking top spot with 21.75lbs in the 85 boat elite field. Healy and Howell barely edged out American Baitworks Pro Lenny Devos and his partner Jeff Desloges who finished 2^nd with 21.23lbs. American Baitworks Pros Matt Massey and Travis Raison took 9^th place weighing in 18.25lbs.

“All the long days on the water paid off with our first qualifier win! 2 years ago AJ Howell and I had our worst Renegade Bass Tour finish on Dog and Cranberry.... and that was not how we wanted it to go this time.” said American Baitworks Pro Kyle Healy“We were ecstatic when the lake was announced for the 2020 season to get our shot at redemption and to put some largie's in the boat. We want to say a big thanks you our sponsors #americanbaitworks #netbait #scumfrog #sth #freedomtackle #smoothsidedocks and #parkit360”

Healy and Howell focused on deep isolated rock and spent the bulk of their practice using their electronics and scanning for rock and boulders.

“Well I still can't believe it happened. 2 years ago Kyle Healey and I had our worst RBT finish on Dog and Cranberry and all we wanted was redemption for it.” said American Baitworks Pro Adam (AJ) Howell “Throughout the whole 2019 season we never put a single green fish in our well and it felt great to go back to our roots an put a largie win under our belts.”

Howell and Healy will carry the lead for Team of the Year heading in the the 2^nd and 3^rd stops of the 2020 Renegade Bass Tour on the historic Big Rideau Lake, in Portland, Ontario July 18^th and 19^th, 2020

by AnglersChannel

You’ll Feel More Bites with Halo’s New Super-Sensitive, Upscaled KS II Elite Series Fishing Rods

OCEAN SPRINGS, Miss. (July 9, 2020) Halo Fishing has stepped up its efforts to provide tour grade fishing rods at an affordable price with the new KS II Elite Series.

Halo’s new leadership is strongly committed to integrity to their customers and products and driven by a passion for building high quality rods at affordable prices. The KS II Elite exemplifies the attention to detail and quality Halo demands from every product they manufacture. Demonstrated in the KS II Elite rods build quality which is manufactured with premium components on a super light, ultra-sensitive Nano-fiber carbon blank.

The KS II Elite Series consists of six casting and one spinning model all of which were designed with input from Halo’s pro fishing team. Retailing at $169.99, the series is built with premium Fuji guides featuring zirconia inserts that heighten rod sensitivity even more. The KS II Elite’s rock solid, proprietary reel handle is made of AAA cork with green Eva Foam highlights for comfort and sensitivity. An exposed, “two-finger” section in the reel seat provides anglers a direct feel to the blank for those delicate bites.

“Nano-fiber carbon not only is stronger and more sensitive than graphite but it’s more durable as well,” says Halo Brand Manager Walt Roberts.

The spinning reel seat also features a double-nut attachment to keep the reel secured to the rod. Both casting and spinning rods have a hook hanger integrated into the blank.

“Halo is working closely with our pro staff team to get our input on rod lengths, features and actions,” says Scott Canterbury, the 2019 Bassmaster Elite Series Angler of the Year. “We’ve made huge strides in improving the overall quality of the rods and dialed in the actions to meet the needs of serious anglers.”

In addition to focusing on quality products, the new Halo leadership has doubled down on its commitment to anglers and customer service. The KS II Elite rods are backed by a five-year warranty.

“We know our customers work hard all week so they can fish harder on weekends,” says Roberts. “The new management team is not only passionate about providing customers a quality product for their hard-earned dollars, but we’re equally committed to a vastly improved customer service program for anglers and our dealer network.”

Halo is a subsidiary of the American Baitworks Co. American Baitworks has made significant strides to overhaul the rod company since moving the business from Florida to Mississippi in 2019.

For more product information, visit www.americanbaitworks.com.

American Baitworks Co. Contacts

by AnglersChannel

Suntex and Bradley Roy Announce Partnership

Jamestown, KY – Today, State Dock, a Suntex Marina, announced a partnership with Major League Fishing Bass Pro Tour angler Bradley Roy. The ten-year pro from Lancaster, KY, will actively promote the Lake Cumberland State Dock facility located in Jamestown, KY.

Roy grew up fishing Lake Cumberland. His annual Bradley Roy High School Open fishing tournament is held there and had a field of 200 boats in October of 2019. The eighth annual tournament will on Cumberland the weekend of October 17th.

As part of the partnership, the State Dock is providing lodging for the winner of the Fish with Bradley Sweepstakes. One lucky winner will spend two nights at the State Dock on Lake Cumberland and a day on the water with Bradley. Entry into the sweepstakes is free at www.bradleyroy.com.

In addition to competing at the highest level of bass fishing, Roy is well-known for giving back. Aspiring anglers from his home state compete in his High School Open each year for two spots in the Bassmaster National Championship and compete for college scholarships and prizes in a unique catch, weigh, and release format on day two of that event.

Through a partnership with Louisville-based USA Cares (www.usacares.org), since 2016, Roy has hosted annual benefit tournaments to assist the organization with its efforts to provide financial and advocacy assistance to post-9/11 active duty US military service personnel, veterans and their families.

“We are thrilled to partner with a true professional like Bradley Roy,” said Suntex’s Southeastern Marketing Specialist Shanalda Burden. “Bradley does so much to give back to his community and makes the angling community in Kentucky very proud. We love that his roots are deep at Lake Cumberland and that his annual high school tournament brings so many people to the lake.”

State Dock, a Suntex Marina, will immediately become involved with both of those initiatives and join Roy’s current sponsors helping him give back to his community.

About State Dock, a Suntex Marina

For more information regarding State Dock, please visit www.statedock.com.

The Suntex portfolio spans across the United States, including locations in California, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Oklahoma, Texas, Tennessee, and Virginia. For more information on Suntex Marinas or the complete portfolio of Suntex marinas, please visit www.suntex.com.

by AnglersChannel

Cayuga Lake Bassmaster Elite Series Event Canceled; Two NY Tournaments Still Scheduled

July 8, 2020

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. officials announced they will cancel the Bassmaster Elite at Cayuga Lake, scheduled for July 14-17 in the Village of Union Springs, N.Y., and plan to reschedule the tournament for another fishery later this season.

Last week, the State of New York released guidelines for professional sports competitions which include diagnostic testing and protocols for daily health screenings for all athletes and staff, along with a host of other safety and social distancing measures. Under these guidelines, no fans or spectators are allowed to attend events, even those held at outdoor venues.

“New York does allow for professional athletes to have a fast track to compete here, but the regulations and protocols were way beyond what we could produce,” said Mayor Bud Shattuck from the Village of Union Springs, the tournament’s local host. “While we tried valiantly to get this done, it was beyond our control given the tight time frame between when guidelines were announced and competition.”

At this time, both B.A.S.S. and local hosts believe the required testing can be arranged so that the remaining two Elite Series tournaments in New York — the SiteOne Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence River July 23-26 and Bassmaster Elite at Lake Champlain July 30 – Aug. 2 — can continue as scheduled.

“B.A.S.S. is doing everything possible within the guidelines to make sure everyone is safely on the water and fishing our events,” said B.A.S.S. CEO Bruce Akin. “Every major professional sports league is instituting testing protocols and working to develop new competition plans that adhere to strict health and safety guidelines, and we’ll evolve and enhance our plans as needed to work toward our goal of completing the 2020 Bassmaster Elite Season.”

by AnglersChannel

Back by Popular Demand

Daiwa hears the call from anglers and reintroduces the Double Clutch 95SP jerkbait

Cypress, CA (July 6, 2020) – Automotive enthusiasts understand what it means to double-clutch with a manual transmission. In simple terms, through ace footwork, you downshift to build RPMs and provide the engine power for an instant burst of speed. You could say Daiwa’s revived Double Clutch 95SP will be doing the same for hardcore fishing enthusiasts.

The 3 ¾ inch (95mm) freshwater threat is a proven producer for bass, walleyes, trout and monster panfish. Engineered and manufactured in Japan, the Daiwa Double Clutch 96SPsupplies intense action when cast or trolled. And when you put on the brakes, the lure instantly suspends, giving curious fish a chance to study its indisputably realistic baitfish profile.

Regarding the lure’s seductive shape, its thin hydrodynamic design with sliding weight transfer system yields exceptionally long and straight casts, diving from 4- to 6-feet, deeper yet when trolled. Daiwa recommends 10- or 15-lb. test J-Braid x8 braided line to maximize running depth and sensitivity, along with an 18- to 24-inch J-Fluoro fluorocarbon leader.

The Double Clutch 95SP’s hooks are equally as remarkable. Daiwa affixes a pair of #8 SaqSas treble hooks, which are heralded for their exceedingly smooth and sharp points.

The Daiwa Double Clutch 95SP is available in well-established colors, including Bone, Delta Smelt, Laser Wakasagi. And as the result of Daiwa’s imaginative Inner Paint Process (IP), the IP Pink, IP Ayu and IP Wakasagi patterns offer greater resistance to scratching, and an even more dynamic 3D appearance.

“Daiwa lure product manager, Satoshi Ito, brought the lure back due to popular demand,” said Marc Mills, Daiwa field test manager. “The Double Clutch 95P has consistently proven to catch more fish and get more strikes than almost any other jerkbait. We’re glad to see its return.”

MSRP $18.99. Now available.

For Daiwa’s latest color catalog and/or information on Daiwa dealers in your area, call Daiwa’s Customer Service Department at 562-375-6800 or e-mail inquiries to: [email protected]. The URL for Daiwa’s web site is http://www.daiwa.com/us/

by AnglersChannel

Topwater Chaos will Erupt with the Innovative Mischief Minnow

OCEAN SPRINGS, Miss. (July 7, 2020) There is nothing more exciting than a fish erupting on a topwater bait and the chaos that ensues. Topwater chaos is what makes the all new Mischief Minnow from Freedom Tackle one of the hottest and most innovative baits to land in 2020 – and puts it in a class all its own.

The secret to the Mischief Minnow’s performance is the unique Kilter Blade – this custom blade design is center-mounted on the bait body by an angled blade pin. The patent-pending Kilter Blade creates a highly erratic action – there is simply nothing like it in the market today!

Working the bait is simple, relying on the Kilter Blade to create side-to-side body rolling action which mimics a wounded baitfish on the water’s surface. The Mischief Minnow’s unique thrashing action combines clacking sound, wake vibration and blade flash – a true triple threat in topwater fishing that makes fish want to smash.”

At rest, the high-float body relies on a nose-up presentation that thrashes into action with the slightest twitch. Use a straight retrieve or mix it up with a pause-and-rip rod technique to entice bone jarring strikes!

The Mischief Minnow is designed to put fish in the boat with premium paint finishes, super-sharp Gamakatsu Short Shank treble hooks and the exclusive Freedom Color-Matched Custom Kilter Blade.

“The Mischief Minnow brings innovation to topwater fishing by combining all the advantages of sound, wake and blade flash in a pencil style bait design.” said Michael Tamburro, President of Freedom Tackle. “Two years of design and product testing has given us feedback from the biggest critics we have – the fish! They don’t just eat it, they want to destroy it and that’s the kind of mischief we want to create when topwater fishing!”

For more information about any of our new products for 2020/21, visit www.americanbaitworks.com

by AnglersChannel

Keep Small Tackle Organized with the New EDGE™ 3500

Grand Prairie, TX (July 7, 2020) Launched at ICast 2019, the Plano EDGE™ was built on the familiar Plano 3600 and 3700 Stowaway footprints. The EDGE™ tackle systems were created to answer anglers' questions before they even ask. Adaptable, durable and intuitively designed means the lure you just thought of using is available in seconds. The Plano EDGE™ family offers an entire line of storage solutions for any angler in the industry standards 3600 and 3700 Stowaway footprints.

New for ICast 2020, Plano unveils the newest addition to the EDGE™ family - the Plano EDGE™ 3500. Like its bigger brethren, the EDGE™ 3500 has all of the standard features of the line but in a smaller and more agile frame. The new EDGE™ 3500 is sure to strike a chord among anglers who are on the go and can't carry larger boxes and gear. Kayak anglers, bank and wading fisherman or anyone familiar with the benefits of the EDGE™ 3600 or 3700 Standard box should quickly embrace the smaller 3500.

Starting with its Duraview™ crystal-clear lid, the EDGE™ 3500 makes identifying baits and terminal tackle a fast affair. No more opening and closing multiple boxes to find a specific lure or bait. When closed, the Dri-Loc™ watertight seal makes a barrier that moisture cannot penetrate. Another unique feature of the Plano EDGE™ 3500 is the new patent-pending, one-handed latch. Durable, steel-pin hinges finish off the rugged lid and marry it to the EDGE's base for years of use.

Plano's new exclusive Rustrictor™ anti-corrosion compound is infused into the base of all EDGE™ boxes. Rustrictor™ prevents terminal tackle and expensive baits from corroding. Water Wick™ provides further corrosion defense from a water-absorbing desiccant divider, giving EDGE™ a one-two punch against rust and corrosion. Patent-pending, pre-separated, vented dividers allow for air circulation. They are also recessed into the base of the box so that terminal tackle and smaller items don't migrate throughout the box. The EDGE™ 3500 also features an innovative labeling system on the latch of every box.

EDGE 3500 Features:

Water Wick™ divider with reusable moisture-wicking packet
Dri-Loc® O-ring seal maintains waterproofing when closed
Rustrictor™ technology delivers 360 degrees of rust-prevention
EZ Label™ system for quick identification of contents
DuraView™ crystal-clear polycarbonate lid
Dimensions: 9.13" x 5.47" x 1.38"

by AnglersChannel

The 2020 Hard Baits Line Up From 13 Fishing

Agitator [aj-i-tey-ter] Noun:
"A person who stirs up others in order to upset the status quo and further a political, social, or other cause."

Jabber Jaw

More Noise, Less Filling

This bait is as unclassifiable as anything we've ever created, and we can’t hit the mute button on loud and furious. The chattering bill is rigged inside the full metal jowls which give roaring resonance as it bangs side to side. Introduce your local fish to a new level of chaos. Finished off with VMC black nickel hooks, this bait will land more high fives and fist bumps than a game of beer pong.

Specifications

• Jabber Jaw Bill Provides Erratic Swimming Action
• Patent Pending Metal Cheeks Provided Enhanced "Clicking" Noise
• HD Holographic Eyes
• VMC Premium Hybrid Black Nickel Treble Hooks
• Ultra-High Definition Paint Finishes

If you're going to claim to be innovative,

you better do your research...

Shadow Spin

The Mullet Is Back

When you take the ultimate application of finesse techniques, develop and refine them into one package, this is exactly what comes out. It’s all business in the front with a custom machined aluminum prop, and a downright party in the back with the subtle wedge-tailed paddle that shreds a whole new riff in the spy game.

Specifications

• Metal Prop Provides Enticing Vibration and Action
• Perfectly Balanced for Enhanced Shimmy on the Fall Soft
• Wedge-Tail for Improved Action
• HD Holographic Eyes
• VMC Premium PTFE Coated Hybrid Treble Hook for Improved Penetration
• Ultra-High Definition Paint Finishes

Half Twitchbait, Half Spybait, Half Swimbait, 150% Success.

Spin Walker

A Tweak Ahead

Walk the dog style baits have been calling us for an upgrade for a long time, and now we’ve answered. We’ve added a bottom positioned prop and clacker that gives off a beguiling sputter whether twitched side to side or retrieved directly. Watch local fish become enamored and consumed by their need to attack. This spear is tipped with VMC premium PTFE coated hybrid treble hooks that make penetrating tough mouthed species child's play.

Specifications

• Metal Prop And Clacker Provides Enticing Noise and Vibration
• HD Holographic Eyes
• Ultra-High Definition Paint Finishes
• Perfectly Balanced For Easy Walk The Dog Action
• VMC Premium PTFE Coated Hybrid Treble Hook for Improved Hook Penetration

Like A Topwater, But Better.

by AnglersChannel

Scott Canterbury Casts His New Signature Series of Halo Fishing Rods

July 8, 2020, Ocean Springs, Mississippi – Almost every professional angler, has design adaptations and enhancements they would like to make to the tools of their trade, and Scott Canterbury is no exception. When we approached the 2019 Bassmaster Angler of the Year and Halo Fishing Rods Pro to have him consult on adding tournament-proven design enhancements to our rods, no question, he was immediately all-in.

Working closely with Scott, the Halo Fishing Rods design team identified a number of important advancements in product design. From his years of experience and personal recommendations, we saw an opportunity to develop a completely new series of rods that could build upon Scott’s success, performance and consistency. From those initial design ideas, the team developed seven models of Scott Canterbury Signature Series rods. These seven new Scott Canterbury rod models were designed to cover every fishing situation and the extreme conditions that a professional angler faces throughout their extensive tournament season.

“I’ve been using Halo Fishing Rods for the best part of my tournament career and the company already makes some of my favorite tournament-proven rods. When they gave me the challenge of adding my recommendations and design enhancements for tournament situations, I was excited to get involved.” said 2019 Bassmaster Angler of the Year Scott Canterbury “Each of these rods have my 20-plus years of tournament experience in them. They are priced to be affordable for any angler and designed to be tournament tough. I’m very proud of the work of our team to create some truly innovative fishing rods.”

The Scott Canterbury Signature Series rods are built with High-end Japanese Nano-fiber Graphite for unmatched sensitivity and durability. The blank design is centered around a reduced handle length for increased casting accuracy, as well as, improved butt-end clearance to eliminate interference with bulky clothing. The blank is matched with stainless steel guide frames with zirconia inserts for smooth casting and durability. We also added a new, proprietary reel seat to improve hand-to-blank touch sensitivity and a super-comfortable grip to reduce casting fatigue for those long days on the water. The Scott Canterbury series are great rod designs developed by a true Champion.

Features:

7 rods in the series - 6 casting & 1 spinning
Japanese Nano-fiber Graphite
Reduced Handle Lengths
Sensitive, light and durable
Stainless steel guides with zirconia inserts
Proprietary Halo reel seat
Ultra-Comfort Grips

www.halofishing.com

by AnglersChannel

NetBait Collaborates with STH Bait Co to launch new line of Finesse Soft Plastics

OCEAN SPRINGS, Miss. (July 7, 2020) NetBait Tackle is advancing the company’s line up of soft plastic baits with the all new STH Finesse Series. The collaboration between the two American Baitworks Co. brands will expand the NetBait product selection with 3 new series of products: Finesse Series Drifter, Finesse Series Crush Worms and Finesse Series Tubes.

The new NetBait STH Finesse Series products have been designed almost exclusively for fishing smallmouth bass, as well as highly pressured and finicky fish where subtle bait actions and reduced bait profiles are critical to generating more bites. These super-soft bait profiles are made with exceptional attention to detail with incredibly natural color patterns.

NetBait STH Finesse Series Products

DRIFTER

Drifter (2.75”) 6/pack

One of the best baits available for finesse applications like drop shot, jig head and the STH Flatty Rig. A classic, handcrafted, hand-poured bait with year-round application for Bass, Walleye and Ice Fishing, the Drifter is 2.75 inches and comes in 8 color options.

Super soft salted and scented, the Drifter moves freely in any application without you having to shake it. Integrated 3D eyes give the Drifter a lifelike, fleeing baitfish appearance to get every fish to stop and chomp.

CRUSH WORM

Crush Worm (3.75") 10/pack
Stumpy Crush Worm (3.5") 8/pack
Jr. Crush Worm (3") 10/pack

The Crush Worm is one of the most lifelike baits available on the market today thanks to a super-soft, high-float plastic integrated with salt and scent – the ultimate combination to get fish to bite and hang on!

The three size profiles give anglers the option to size down between the Crush Worm and Jr. Crush Worm for more subtle presentations or use a slightly wider bait profile with the Stumpy Crush.

The Crush Worm has quickly become the mainstay drop shot bait for a wide range of anglers. We recommend using an extremely subtle technique with minimal rod tip movement as it has been proven consistently that slight twitches and dead sticking the Crush Worm optimizes the bait’s performance.

FINESSE SERIES TUBES

Our Finesse Series Tubes are rewriting the rules when it comes to tube fishing and smallmouth bass! STH Series Tubes outperform others because of an important design feature – body to tail ratio!

The 40% body to 60% tail ratio delivers vastly improved action with the slightest twitch of your rod and allows for a fully exposed hook in the tail section which improves hookups with hard-lipped smallmouth bass.

Available in 10 colors and two sizes; 2.5” and 4” – tube anglers can use the bigger size tubes for smallmouth and largemouth or size down for super finicky bass and walleye that need to be enticed with a smaller profile.

“We’re excited to announce these incredible new baits under our new STH Finesse Series which is adding even more versatility to our products and giving anglers more choice and more bites with NetBait.” said NetBait Tackle President Justin Sward.

Launching through Virtual ICAST 2020, NetBait Tackle STH Finesse Series products will be available in August 2020 and will be offered in updated dimensional clamshell packaging designed to give anglers full visibility of each bait profile and color.

For more information about any of our new products for 2020/2021, visit www.netbait.com

by AnglersChannel

AFTCO - The Original Reaper — Upgraded!

The Reaper 3-Layer Windproof Jacket constructed from a durable stretch soft shell rip-stop fabric with an ultra-warm Hexatron™ fleece lining and integrated micro-fleece face mask.

The AFTCO Reaper Hoodie swept the fishing world and quickly became the staple for cold weather fishing comfort, rendering traditional fishing sweatshirts obsolete. The Reaper Windproof Jacket is the next generation of technical cold weather gear in the Reaper family. This soft shell jacket still incorporates a built-in face mask and neck warmer but is now lined with AFTCO's very own Hexatron™ fleece material. A durable 94% polyester / 6% spandex rip-stop outer shell is fused to the Hexatron™ lining. This combination in a 3-layer fabric provides added comfort, warmth, and wind protection. Built with laser cut underarm ventilation and a zippered side vent.

For the angler looking for a soft shell jacket specifically for cold weather and Fall/Winter fishing, the Reaper Soft Shell Jacket is the versatile piece that checks all the boxes and more.

The Reaper Jacket will be available later this fall here

Reaper Windproof Jacket

by AnglersChannel

American Baitworks Makes Major Move With Industry Veteran Doug Minor

OCEAN SPRINGS, Mississippi. (July 7, 2020) American Baitworks started its journey in 2018 with a commitment to designing, creating and manufacturing high quality products to help the company’s partners and customers achieve success on and off the water. Through investment and acquisition, American Baitworks brand family includes 6 outstanding brands; Freedom Tackle. Halo Fishing Rods, NetBait Tackle, Scum Frog, Snag Proof and STH Bait Co.

Today, the company is advancing that promise and commitment to our customers and partners as industry veteran Doug Minor joins the American Baitworks team. Doug Comes to American Baitworks after 37 years with Strike King Lure Company. Doug will join the company on July 7^th taking on a leadership role as President of American Baitworks.

“I’m truly blessed to have an opportunity to join and work with our growing team at American Baitworks. I see such tremendous opportunity to make a difference in and for the fishing industry with our brands and through our team.” said Doug Minor, President of American Baitworks. “In my time in the industry I have been fortunate to have made lifelong relationships and friendships through a shared passion for the outdoors. I’m excited and looking forward to continuing those relationships in my new role at American Baitworks.”

“There is a very bright future for our company and our family of brands at American Baitworks. Doug’s passion and enthusiasm is unbridled and he brings with him the experience we need to establish American Baitworks as a leader in our industry.” said American Baitworks Founder and CEO Robert Greenberg. “

by AnglersChannel

Toyota Series Set to Visit Lake Erie for Northern Division Opener

SANDUSKY, Ohio (June 30, 2020) – The 2020 Toyota Series will open the Northern Division with a tournament next week at Lake Erie, July 9-11, with the Toyota Series at Lake Erie. Hosted by the City of Sandusky, the three-day tournament will feature the region’s best bass-fishing pros and co-anglers casting for a top prize of up to $65,000, plus a $35,000 bonus if the winner is a qualified Phoenix Boat owner.

The event will be the third Toyota Series tournament held since the organization paused all competition in mid-March due to the coronavirus pandemic. Originally scheduled to be held at the St. Lawrence River in Massena, New York, the event was moved to Lake Erie at Sandusky after New York’s recently announced travel restrictions last week.

“Because of the timing of the event and with Canada being off-limits, it’s going to be a little tougher tournament for the smallmouth bass,” said boater Mike Trombly of Belleville, Michigan, who has eight career FLW wins. “Typically, what ends up happening, is those fish come to the islands to spawn, and then those fish scatter off into Canada. With it being postspawn, I think it’s going to be tougher for the smallmouths.

“They’re pretty much just done. You may have some bucks still on beds, but you’re probably going to catch fish deeper,” said Trombly. “They’re going to start finding them on the deeper structure, probably 16-feet plus, and you could catch them as deep as 25 or 30 feet. How well they get caught depends on how far into summer they are. If they’ve had a chance to gang up guys should catch them.”

While the smallmouths are likely to be in a transition stage, Trombly thinks the largemouths, which spawned earlier in warmer bays and backwaters, will be ready to rock. In the shallows, frogs, other topwaters and flipping baits will work. For offshore fish, a crankbait or a heavy jig could get the call.

For smallmouths, the usual range of Great Lakes techniques should play. For shallow fish, a jerkbait, swimbait and spy bait will be good tools. For deeper fish, the tried and true standards apply.

“It’s pretty much the same old, same old for the smallmouths,” said Trombly. “Ned rigs – anything that is minnow-replicating – goby baits, that all is good. Gobies are probably the predominant forage species for smallmouth, on that particular part of the lake.

“I think a mixed bag could definitely do it, and I would not be surprised if a largemouth-only angler won it,” Trombly went on to say. “I think if someone can average 20 pounds a day, they will have a really good chance of winning.”

Anglers will take off daily at 6 a.m. EDT from the Shelby Street Boat Launch Facility, located at 101 Shelby St., in Sandusky. Weigh-ins will also be held at the Shelby Street Launch Facility and will begin at 2 p.m. To minimize the spread of COVID-19, attendance is limited to competing anglers and essential staff only. Fans are encouraged to forgo the daily takeoffs and weigh-ins and follow the event online through the “FLW Live” weigh-in broadcasts and daily coverage at FLWFishing.com.

In Toyota Series regular-season competition, payouts are based on the number of participants competing in the event, scaling up for every 20 boats over 160 and scaling down for every boat below 160. With a 160-boat field, pros fish for a top prize of $40,000, plus an extra $35,000 if FLW PHOENIX BONUS qualified. Co-anglers cast for the top prize of a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard (valued at $33,500). With a 260-boat field, pros fish for a top award of $65,000, plus an extra $35,000 if FLW PHOENIX BONUS qualified. Co-anglers cast for the top prize of a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard (valued at $33,500) plus $5,000 cash.

For complete details and updated information visit FLWFishing.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.

by AnglersChannel

Arey: Frogs, lemonade and the 4th of July

Courtesy of Alan McGuckin - Dynamic Sponsorships

When Team Toyota’s Matt Arey is home between tournaments, rather than spend tons of time fishing his favorite local waters, you’ll more likely find him assisting his two young daughters in their efforts to make tie dye t-shirts or find seven words to describe bubble gum as daughter Reese completes a homework assignment about adjectives.

Given his nearly full time role as “Mr. Mom” while wife Emily fulfills her full-time career obligations as Director of Records and Educational Partnerships at their local community college, Arey’s ability to consistently sit high in the Bassmaster Angler of the Year points race is worthy of great respect.

The goodness of Matt and Emily’s marriage and parenting partnership was recently reflected in lemonade when daughter Reese teamed with neighbors and close friends to sell the refreshing summer drinks to raise money for a good cause.

The youngsters netted $266 and donated the money to the Community Math Academy, which helps mostly underprivileged students improve their math skills and confidence through personal attention and tutoring while encouraging equality for all members of the Cleveland County, NC community.

Reese’s hard work and generous heart will soon be rewarded with a family beach trip. The Areys plan to spend fun times together over the 4^th of July weekend about four hours from home at Pawleys Island, south of Myrtle Beach, SC.

“My wife Emily and the girls are beach bums. They could play in the sand all day, but I have trouble sitting still that long. So I may squeak in a fishing trip for trout, flounder, or maybe go a little further off shore one day,” says Arey. “Most importantly though, is just seeing the joy on my daughters’ faces once their feet hit the sand.”

Trout and flounder aside, when quizzed to name one lure all largemouth anglers should consider throwing right now, Arey was quick to name a Lunkerhunt compact skirted frog that comes out of the package with the legs already trimmed. He throws it on 50-pound P-Line braided line, spooled to a fast 8.3:1 Lew’s baitcaster, and warns it’s a lure that often gets more and more bites as summer progresses and aquatic vegetation grows thicker.

“You might not get a ton of bites on a frog, but don’t be afraid to throw it all day, and be ready for big bites, because even in hot summer some of the biggest fish in the lake stay shallow eating bluegill, mayflies and frogs,” warns Arey.

From tie-dyes to mayflies and lemonade in between, Matt Arey is indeed a knowledgeable man with a deep love of family who has earned a third place position on the Bassmaster Angler of the Year leaderboard.

by AnglersChannel

2020 Bass Pro Tour Premieres on Discovery Channel Saturday, July 4

July 1, 2020 (Tulsa, Okla.) Major League Fishing (MLF) announced today the premiere of the 2020 Bass Pro Tour on the Discovery Channel, debuting Saturday, July 4, 7 to 9 a.m. ET and PT.

This competitive bass fishing circuit brings together 80 of the most accomplished professional anglers including Jacob Wheeler, Jordan Lee, and Ott DeFoe, currently ranked the top three anglers in the world by industry media outlet, BassFan, alongside Kevin VanDam, Mike Iaconelli, and reigning 2019 Bass Pro Tour Points Champion Edwin Evers.

“Major League Fishing is overwhelmingly the number one rated show or series in the fishing category across all networks, and the 2020 Bass Pro Tour on Discovery Channel is a critical piece of that schedule,” said Jim Wilburn, Major League Fishing President and CEO. “In 2019 MLF was the highest rated series to ever air in the Discovery outdoor block. We look forward to bringing new fans to the sport with our return to Discovery Channel on July 4^th.”

Fans can follow the 2020 Bass Pro Tour season every Saturday morning from 7 to 9 a.m. ET/PT through October 4, 2020. The 15-week, 14-episode show schedule is as follows:

Air Date	2020 Bass Pro Tour Season Episode Listing
July 4	B&W Hitches Stage One presented by Power-Pole on Lake Eufaula, Ala. – Knockout Round
July 11	B&W Hitches Stage One presented by Power-Pole on Lake Eufaula (Ala.) – Championship Round
July 18	Favorite Fishing Stage Two presented by Bass Cat on Lake Okeechobee (Fla.) – Knockout Round
July 25	Favorite Fishing Stage Two presented by Bass Cat on Lake Okeechobee (Fla.) – Championship Round
August 1	General Tire Stage Three presented by TrueTimber on Lake Fork (Texas) – Knockout Round
August 8	General Tire Stage Three presented by TrueTimber on Lake Fork (Texas) – Championship Round
August 15	- No MLF episode due to Shark Week -
August 22	Toyota Heavy Hitters presented by Venmo on Kissimmee Chain (Fla.) – Qualifying Round Group A, Day One
August 29	Toyota Heavy Hitters presented by Venmo on Kissimmee Chain (Fla.) – Qualifying Round Group B, Day One
September 5	Toyota Heavy Hitters presented by Venmo on Kissimmee Chain (Fla.) – Qualifying Round Group A, Day Two
September 12	Toyota Heavy Hitters presented by Venmo on Kissimmee Chain (Fla.) – Qualifying Round Group B, Day Two
September 19	Toyota Heavy Hitters presented by Venmo on Kissimmee Chain (Fla.) – Knockout Round
September 26	Toyota Heavy Hitters presented by Venmo on Kissimmee Chain (Fla.) – Championship Round
October 3	Stage Five presented by Covercraft hosted by Sturgeon Bay (Wisc.) – Knockout Round
October 4 (Sunday)	Stage Five presented by Covercraft hosted by Sturgeon Bay (Wisc.) – Championship Round

About the 2020 Bass Pro Tour
Following a mid-season interruption to minimize the spread of COVID-19, the 2020 Bass Pro Tour includes five Stages. Each stage features six days of competition: four days of Qualifying Rounds featuring the full field of 80; a one-day Knockout Round, culminating into the final 10 competing in the Championship Round. To meet preexisting production timelines, MLF on Discovery Channel brings fans the drama of the Knockout and Championship Rounds from Stages One, Two, Three, and Five, and all six days of the Toyota Heavy Hitters presented by Venmo.
Using SCORETRACKER®, fans and anglers alike keep track of the changing field as each fish shifts the standings in real time until time runs out at the end of Period Three. Each episode culminates into the Championship Round of Stage Five. Standings after Stage Five determine the 2020 Season Points Champion as well as qualifiers for the 2021 Heavy Hitters, and the Bass Pro Tour Championship: REDCREST, scheduled for February 21-29, 2021 in Tulsa, Okla.

by AnglersChannel

Glide Bait 101 with Carl Jocumsen

On this episode of the AC Extra brought to by Sportsmans Warehouse, AnglersChannel's Kenneth Grover heads to Lake Chickamauga to catch up with Elite Series Winner Carl Jocumsen to get the 411 on all things Glide Baits. Carl will run you through all the basics and give a detailed, fish catching example on how you can utilize the Glide bait in your arsenal. Check it out MATE!!!

by AnglersChannel

Welcome to the Show!

This week Chris and the boys welcome in FLW Tour Rookie Cole Floyd to the show to talk about his recent 2nd place finish on Lake ChickaMAUGA in the FLW Super Tournament. They also welcome in Adam Knowles, Associate Brand Manager with Minn Kota to talk about the new RAPTOR Shallow Water Anchor and more. Check it out!

by AnglersChannel

Iaconelli – Keeping it Fresh

Courtesy of Luke Stoner - Dynamic Sponsorships

You may know Mike Iaconelli best for his long list of tournament wins, accolades, and infamous on-the-water antics that includes genuine elation, shouts of disappointment, enthusiastic screams of joy, growls of frustration, or the occasional animal noise.

What fishing fans might be surprised to hear is the Team Toyota pro has been spending a lot time the past few months on small, serene bodies of water fishing out of his Hobie Kayak or jon boat with no one in sight except for his son Vegas or daughter Stella. The New Jersey native still “goes Ike” when one of them catches a fish, but in a way that lights up his soul instead of the SCORETRACKER.

Lately Iaconelli has thoroughly enjoyed watching his children’s passion for fishing grow; while simultaneously reconnecting himself to the genesis of his own fishing pursuits.

For the love of the game

If you follow Iaconelli on social media you’ve seen he and his son, Vegas “the hammer”, spending a lot of time on the water in a small jon boat recently. Like thousands of other Americans, Ike turned to the outdoors when social distancing became the norm for he and his family. He took the time to teach his kids more about the outdoors, while simplifying his own passion for fishing.

“When I developed my love of the sport it was at the grass roots level,” Iaconelli explained. “I’d fish anywhere and any way I could. On the bank with a backpack, out of canoe, kayak, or jon boat; any way I could get on the water intrigued me. It’s been great to reconnect to that style of fishing. It takes away the noise and the business side of this gig… It’s much needed sometimes.”

Make no mistake, Iaconelli is still partial to his Yamaha powered Bass Cat and tournament competition, but he values the nostalgia and connection felt when fun fishing out of a small vessel. There is something special about catching a fish without all the latest, greatest bells and whistles.

“As a professional angler it’s my job to keep up with new technology, new gadgets, and that sort of thing,” Iaconelli said. “But sometimes it is good to re-learn how to fish without all of that crap. It’s just you and the fish. I’ve fished that way my entire life and I’ll never stop.”

Growing the sport

Another reason Ike appreciates this pace of fishing is just how available it is to new anglers. Iaconelli is no stranger to efforts that help grow the sport. Through The Ike Foundation, Iaconelli and his team do a tremendous amount to help get more people involved with fishing, especially youths. Anything that helps remove barriers to first-time anglers is right up Ike’s alley.

“The best thing about kayak fishing is the affordability and accessibility,” Iaconelli said. “Not everyone can afford a $50,000 bass boat, but any kid with a dream can budget for a cheap kayak or old jon boat. It makes getting into the sport so much easier, and helps people fall in love with bass fishing.”

Kayaks or jon boats also have the ability to access smaller more remote fisheries than a traditional bass boat. Iaconelli travels the country with a Hobie Kayak on the roof of his Tundra and lately has found himself taking advantage of its “off-road” capabilities more and more.

“I’ll be honest I’ve been doing a bit of kayak training,” Iaconelli admitted. “I’ve competed out of a bass boat for 20+ years, and I’ve been with Hobie Kayaks for six years… but I’ve never fished a kayak tournament. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do and I’m looking forward to changing that this fall.”

by AnglersChannel

Alabama Teen catches 15lb Bass!

Courtesy of AONmag.com

https://aonmag.com/fishing/15-lb-alabama-bass-caught-on-camera-by-teen/?fbclid=IwAR2PgeOBlqx3X6ncKK6RXIt3cKfGuWGVOaogR0dUB7-3La-zwvVrK-2fbWg

Original Story from AONMag.com and Mike Bolton below

BY MIKE BOLTON ON JUNE 30, 2020FISHING

Emory Carver, a 13-year-old from Vestavia Hills, went to a Henry County private lake on Friday, June 26 dreaming of catching a 10-lb. bass. What he caught instead was maybe the eighth largest bass ever from Alabama.

The youngster landed a largemouth bass that on hand-held digital scales weighed 15.4 pounds. Converted to pounds and ounces, that’s 15-lbs., 6.4-ozs., and it is less than a pound and 2 ounces from the Alabama state record fish that weighed 16-lbs., 8-ozs. caught from a private lake in Shelby County in 1987.

Emory’s previous largest bass was 5 pounds. The eighth-grader-to-be at Pizitz Middle School released the huge Henry County bass back into the lake unharmed.

“I was visiting one of my grandparents north of Dothan, and a 60-year-old man I know down there took me fishing at this private lake,” said Emory.

The youngster sure loves to fish—he was surf fishing on the beach when contacted by AON about his giant bass.

“My friend had fished the lake several times before. He told me where some good spots were, and he showed me a place he had never fished. I went to that spot.”

Emory said it was about 7 a.m. when he cast a 6-inch Texas-rigged Gary Yamamoto Senko in a spot and felt the unmistakable thump of a fish inhaling the bait.

“I set the hook, and it was hard to reel in,” he said. “It jumped about a foot in the air, and I thought it was 10 pounds. I didn’t know what a 15-lb. bass looked like.”

Using a stiff rod and 14-lb. test monofilament, Emory was able to manhandle the bass to the bank in about a minute, he said. With the big bass in hand, he almost had a story of the big one that got away.

Emory said the bass slipped out of his hand, but it was still hooked, and he was able to get ahold of it again. He said when he weighed the fish and it pulled the digital scales to more than 15 pounds, he was in shock.

“I never thought about keeping it,” he said. “I wanted to throw it back so someone else could catch it when it weighed maybe 16 pounds. I’m hoping someone can make me a mount from the picture.”

Emory’s is the first bass in 20 years to make the list of Alabama 10 Largest Bass.

Incredibly, Emory got the catch on video. He had a GoPro camera strapped to his chest. He was filming for his Youtube.com fishing channel.

He films all of his fishing trips on puts them online.

Emory said he has been fishing all of his life and got his start fishing with his dad and grandad. He sure set the bar high at a very early age with his bass of a lifetime.

Alabama’s 10 Largest Bass, Compiled By AON’s Mike Bolton

1. 16-lbs., 8-ozs. T.M. Burgin 11/3/87 Private Lake Shelby Co.

2. 16-lbs., 3.52-ozs. Wayne Wiggins 1/19/89 Gainesville Lake

3. 16-lbs., 3-ozs. John Thompson 1/31/93 Lake R. L. Harris

4. 16-lbs, 1-oz. Joe Corning 3/23/91 Private. Lake, Cherokee Co.

5. 15-lbs., 10.96-ozs. Carl New Fall, 1989 Lake R.L. Harris

6. 15-lbs., 10-ozs. Tommy Hayes Fall, 1989 Cedar Creek Lake

7. 15-lbs., 8.96-ozs. Millard Graves 12/13/91 Private Lake, Blount County.

8. 15-lbs., 6.4-ozs. Emory Carver 6/26/20 Private Lake, Henry County

9. 15-lbs., 6.24-ozs. Lionel Bragan 9/8/87 Private Lake, Cullman County

10. 15-lbs., 3.04-ozs. Kelly Belk 2/24/91 Lake LU

by AnglersChannel

All New Realistic Scum Frog Painted Trophy Series Meets Angler Demands

American-Made Scum Frog advances frog fishing once again with 10 hand-designed colors

OCEAN SPRINGS, Mississippi, USA (May 21, 2020) - Discriminating anglers demand specific features in their quest for the best hollow-bodied frog. They want their frogs to be soft, so they collapse the moment a bass strikes, yet durable to last through numerous fish catches. They seek a higher hook-up ratio due to accurate positioning of quality hooks and they want them to convey a lifelike appearance and move realistically across the water.

Scum Frog, which has been manufacturing hollow-bodied frogs seemingly forever, offers the highest quality components at a reasonable price in its upgraded Painted Trophy Series. Like the recently introduced Launch Series, the ALL NEW Trophy Series now features 10 new hand-designed colors in addition to the 11 original colors.

The Painted Trophy Series’ realistic color schemes mimic several different types of bass forage. Each color has been meticulously designed by award-winning, internationally renowned lure artist Andrew Gardner, a Scum Frog staffer.

Plus, anglers don’t have to worry about the paint design wearing off; Scum Frog uses a proprietary system that digitally patterns onto the frog making them extremely durable.

Like all Scum Frog models, they are made at American Baitworks. Unlike most frogs that are produced with automated manufacturing, Scum Frog manufacturing is done by hand, by American employees ensuring the time and care it takes to meet the company’s high-quality control standards.

“We don’t make crankbaits or spinnerbaits or any other types of lures at Scum Frog” says Scum Frog General Manager Frank Mackin. “We have specialized in frogs for 30+ years and know more about designing and manufacturing hollow body frogs because that’s all we do.” Mackin also says the company’s exclusive and detailed dip-mold manufacturing process is one of the reasons Scum Frog has the softest hollow body in the market.

Reigning Bassmaster Angler of Year Scott Canterbury says that’s a huge reason why they catch more fish. “I’ve been fishing Scum Frogs for more than 20 years,” explains the Alabama pro. “I’ve experimented with all of the brands, but none offers as good of hook-up ratio as the Scum Frog models. They have the softest body which collapses easily and offers more exposure to the super sharp Owner hooks built in them.”

The Painted Trophy Series, one of 14 Scum Frog series of frogs, is designed to ride low in the water and push a lot of water for more surface disturbance. “It’s ideal for working edges of vegetation, especially during low light hours around matted grass, vertical structure, docks and seawalls,” says Canterbury.

Like all Scum Frogs, the Trophy Series has a patented keel hole in the bottom to make it self-draining. Each time you lift the bait to make another cast, water automatically drains. That means there’s no need to “squeeze” the body to remove water which is required of many other brands. The Trophy Series is offered in 1/2 and 5/8-ounce sizes and both models cast easily.

“The frog has a solid, brass button weight to enhance casting distance and give the bait a good presence in the water,” says Canterbury. “I really like the size of it too, especially when fishing around pressured fish.”

The Painted Trophy’s legs are made with 40-strand silicone skirt material that is color coordinated to match the lure body perfectly. Scum Frog, a subsidiary of American Baitworks, makes a frog for every action, size and price point in the market.

“We’re not a niche company,” says Mackin. “We produce a variety of frogs for all levels of anglers; we’re very conscientious about that.”

The new Trophy Series will be available to retailers nationwide beginning June 1. It will carry a suggested retail of $6.49

by AnglersChannel

Iowa’s Riceville High School Wins 2020 TBF/FLW High School Fishing National Championship on Mississippi River

STODDARD, Wis. (June 30, 2020) – Iowa’s Riceville High School duo of Lawson Losee and Kooper Tweite brought a three-bass limit to the scale Saturday weighing 11 pounds, 2 ounces to win the 2020 TBF/FLW High School Fishing National Championship on the Mississippi River in Stoddard, Wisconsin. Riceville’s three-day total of nine bass totaling 30-4 gave them the win by a 1-pound, 13-ounce margin and earned the duo a trio of scholarship options.

“This is amazing,” said Losee. “Early on we were joking about winning. But, after leading the second day, we talked and said, ‘we can really do this.’ We came out, caught some big fish and now we’re National Champions. It’s awesome.”

“We went into the day expecting maybe 9½ or 10 pounds and came in with the second-biggest bag of the tournament,” said Tweite. “It was a great day of fishing.”

The team locked down to Pool No. 9 on all three days of competition to find unpressured bass. The strategy paid off handsomely, producing an 8-pound, 12-ounce limit on day one, a 10-pound, 6-ounce limit on day two, and the 11-pound 2-ounce limit on day three.

Riceville’s National Championship win earned Losee and Tweite a trio of scholarship options – a 4-year, $120,000 scholarship offer to Simpson University in Redding, California, an $80,000 4-year scholarship to Kentucky Christian University in Grayson, Kentucky, or a $10,000 cash scholarship from FLW to any college or trade school of their choice.

“We definitely have a lot to think about,” said Tweite.

A total of 312 high school teams from 39 states competed for a share of the more than $3.2 million in scholarships and prizes in the National Championship and the High School Fishing World Finals tournaments, held in conjunction with each on Pools No. 7, 8 and 9 of the Mississippi River in Stoddard, Wisconsin. The event was hosted by the La Crosse County Convention & Visitors Bureau.

The top 10 finishers from the event were:

1st: Riceville High School, Riceville, Iowa – Lawson Losee and Kooper Tweite, nine bass, 30-4

2nd: Illinois Student Angler Federation – Trey McKinney, Carbondale, Ill., and Zachary Martin, nine bass, 28-7

3rd: Lukfata Public School, Broken Arrow, Okla. – Jace Anderson and Braydon Harcrow, nine bass, 26-7

4th: Morgan County High School, Madison, Ga. – Ryan Thomas and Cole Holloway, nine bass, 26-0

5th: Madison High School, Marshall, N.C. – Ransom Boone and Russell Moore, nine bass, 25-14

6th: Legacy Christian Academy, Andover, Minn. – Ryder Mains and Mason Chapman, nine bass, 25-0

7th: Lamar High School, Lamar, Ark. – Mat Higby and John Foster Case, nine bass, 24-6

8th: Thurston High School, Springfield, Ore. – Joshua Butler and Conner Chase, nine bass, 23-9

9th: Carthage High School, Carthage, Mo. – Tristan Beck and Colson Brust, nine bass, 23-5

10th: Central High School, Martinsburg, Pa. – Jerry Brumbaugh and Hunter Klotz, nine bass, 20-5

Complete results from the event can be found at HighSchoolFishing.org.

The 2020 TBF/FLW High School Fishing National Championship on the Mississippi River was a three-day event that saw the entire field of 194 teams compete for two days. The National Championship field was cut to the top 10 for day three and the winner was determined by heaviest three-day cumulative weight. The tournament featured the top anglers from the 2019 TBF High School Fishing State Championships and FLW High School Fishing Open presented by Favorite Fishing events.

For complete details and updated information visit FLWFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow FLW/TBF High School Fishing on FLW’s social media outlets Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

by AnglersChannel

Classic fans and Carhartt donate cash to Keep the TN River Beautiful

Courtesy of Alan McGuckin / Dynamic Sponsorships

Fans who attended the 2020 Bassmaster Classic in Birmingham earlier this year had the chance to help keep Lake Guntersville and other Tennessee River reservoirs clean by making a $10 donation to the Keep the Tennessee River Beautiful organization at the Carhartt booth in exchange for a custom Carhartt Classic beanie.

During the 3-day 2020 Bassmaster Classic Outdoor Expo on March 6 - 8, hard working folks from the Carhartt manufacturing plant were in the Carhartt exhibit booth sewing the B.A.S.S. logo on Carhartt’s famous “A18” acrylic watch cap.

Thanks to loyal and generous fishing fans who purchased the custom beanies, $4,990 was raised to help assure Lake Guntersville and other iconic bass fisheries along the Tennessee River are far less littered with trash for years to come.

Keep the TN River Beautiful organization performs inspiring work. Thus far, they have collected 99,000 pounds of trash from popular Tennessee River bass fisheries such as Guntersville and Pickwick through roughly 30 cleanups annually.

Kathleen Gibi, executive director of the organization recently met Carhartt pro angler Matt Lee at Lake Guntersville, and had this to say about the generous donation fishing fans helped make possible.

“Our goal is to inspire Tennessee River Valley residents to take action for a positive impact on their river, and this donation will help us push even further with our education and river cleanup efforts using our 25-foot work boat,” says a very grateful Gibi. “The team at Carhartt has demonstrated how they can lead with good river stewardship by supporting water conservation.”

While 2020 has been a challenging year with cleanup postponements due to COVID-19, Gibi says she still expects the organization to conduct nearly 30 cleanups this calendar year, and intends to name a future cleanup day in Carhartt’s honor.

The custom Carhartt beanie project is an ongoing annual effort by Carhartt to partner with B.A.S.S. and avid fans at the Classic each year to support conservation agencies and projects in the host state of the Classic each year.

About Carhartt, Inc.

Established in 1889, Carhartt is a global premium workwear brand with a rich heritage of developing rugged products for workers on and off the job. Headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan, Carhartt is family-owned and managed by the descendants of the company’s founder, Hamilton Carhartt. For more information, visit www.carhartt.com and follow @Carhartt on Twitter.

by AnglersChannel

Clear Lake Named Best Bass Fishery Of The Past Decade

Bassmaster Magazine has released its rankings for 100 Best Bass Lakes of the past decade, and Clear Lake, Calif., has been named the No. 1 fishery in the country.

Photo by B.A.S.S.

June 30, 2020

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Since 2012, Bassmaster Magazine has released annual rankings of the country’s best bass fisheries. While tournament data could not be gathered because of the COVID-19 pandemic, crunching numbers gathered over the past eight years revealed a surprising Best Bass Lake of the Decade— California’s Clear Lake.

“Typically, creating the rankings takes more than two months as we dig through current tournament data as well as state fishery information on stocking efforts, catch rates and angler access,” explained BassmasterMagazine Editor-in-Chief James Hall. “Instead, we used all of this research and rankings from the past eight years to create an incredible — and somewhat surprising — ranking of bucket-list destinations for anglers.”

While long-considered a West Coast powerhouse, Clear Lake has never topped the Best Bass Lakes list until this year. However, in the past decade, California’s largest natural lake has also never ranked below 10th in the country and has been the top-ranked Western fishery for the past three years. Anglers can expect to consistently catch big bass in a fishery where an average bass weighs in at over 5 pounds. In fact, a bass over 16 pounds was landed at Clear Lake last year. Combine that production with a pristine setting in California’s wine country, and you have the definition of a bucket-list fishing destination.

Alabama’s Lake Guntersville, home of the 2020 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk, took the No. 2 spot, matching its 2019 rank. Like Clear Lake, the Big G has never been named the Best Bass Lake in the nation, but it is rarely out of contention. Guntersville is known for its breathtaking scenery and easy access, but big fish swim there as well. Most big-bass prizes are awarded to fish topping the 8-pound mark, with 10-plus-pounders taking center stage on occasion.

True giants call our third-place fishery, Lake Erie, home. While most of the tournament data comes out of Buffalo, N.Y., anglers can expect smallies in the 6-pound range anywhere along the shoreline, which includes New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Michigan. Michigan’s Lake St. Clair, where you can catch the smallmouth of a lifetime surrounded by Instagram-worthy scenery, is in the fourth spot.

Rounding out the remainder of the Top 10 lakes are California’s Sacramento/San Joaquin Delta at fifth; Toledo Bend, on the Louisiana/Texas border, at sixth; Texas’s Sam Rayburn Reservoir at seventh; Texas’s Falcon Lake at eighth; Idaho’s Lake Coeur d’Alene at ninth; and Florida’s Lake Okeechobee at tenth.

The rankings identify the Top 25 lakes in the nation based on head-to-head comparisons, as well as the top lakes in four geographical regions — Central, Western, Southeastern and Northeastern.

“We divide the nation into four regions and rank the lakes in each region to give anglers perspective on the fisheries they can most likely reach,” Hall explained.

As for bragging rights on which state has the most fisheries in the all-decade rankings, that title goes to Michigan with seven lakes. Right behind the “Great Lake State” there is a three-way tie with California, Florida and Texas each placing six lakes on the list.

Bassmaster Magazine’s 100 Best Bass Lakes of the Decade

Top 25

1 Clear Lake, California

2 Lake Guntersville, Alabama

3 Lake Erie, New York/Ohio/Pennsylvania/Michigan

4 Lake St. Clair, Michigan

5 Sacramento/San Joaquin Delta, California

6 Toledo Bend, Louisiana/Texas

7 Sam Rayburn Reservoir, Texas

8 Falcon Lake, Texas

9 Lake Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

10 Lake Okeechobee, Florida

11 Lake Champlain, New York/Vermont

12 St. Lawrence River (Thousand Islands), New York

13 Pickwick Lake, Alabama/Mississippi/Tennessee

14 Grand Lake O’ The Cherokees, Oklahoma

15 Chickamauga Lake, Tennessee

16 Lake Fork, Texas

17 Lake Havasu, Arizona/California

18 Oneida Lake, New York

19 Candlewood Lake, Connecticut

20 Columbia River, Oregon/Washington

21 Mille Lacs Lake, Minnesota

22 Lake Seminole, Georgia/Florida

23 Santee Cooper Lakes (Marion/Moultrie), South Carolina

24 Lake Charlevoix, Michigan

25 Sturgeon Bay (Lake Michigan), Wisconsin

About B.A.S.S.
B.A.S.S. is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the 515,000-member organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), television show (The Bassmasters on ESPN2 and The Pursuit Channel), radio show (Bassmaster Radio), social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.

by AnglersChannel

Robbie Hartline Wins Lady Bass Anglers Pickwick Lake Event with over 28 pounds!

Place	Name	CityState	D1 Fish	D1 Wt	D2 Fish	D2 Wt	Total Fish	Wt	Pnty	Big Bass	Total
1	Hartline, Robbie	Hot Springs, AR	4	10.25	5	18.64	9	28.89	0	7.24	28.89
2	Martin-Wells, Pam	Bainbridge, GA	5	14.17	5	11.72	10	25.89	0	4.49	25.89
3	Gessner, Lynda	Hot Springs, AR	5	12.91	5	11.62	10	24.53	0	0.00	24.53
4	Johnson, Lisa	Centre, AL	2	4.72	5	17.84	7	22.56	0	0.00	22.56
5	Goodfellow, Martha	Simpsonville, SC	3	5.79	5	10.44	7	16.23	0.5	0.00	15.73
6	Wolfinbarger, Mickie	Halfway, MO	3	6.34	4	8.21	7	14.55	0	3.42	14.55
7	Johnson, Alisa	Chandler, TX	3	6.85	3	7.16	6	14.01	0	3.33	14.01
8	Anderson, Leslie	St. Louis, MO	3	7.49	3	5.7	6	13.19	0	0.00	13.19
9	Lovvorn, DeAnna	Bradyville, TN	4	7.36	2	5.49	6	12.85	0	0.72	12.85
10	Hart, Tiffany	Magnolia, TX	3	4.53	2	7.09	5	11.62	0	0.63	11.62
11	Ridgle, Pam	Murchison, TX	5	7.47	2	3.86	7	11.33	0	3.66	11.33
12	Cindric, Teri	Hermitage, TN	3	5.59	2	5.69	5	11.28	0	0.70	11.28
13	York, Secret	Benton, KY	2	3.73	3	5.54	5	9.27	0	0.00	9.27
14	McLauren, Noella	Vivian, LA	3	6.77	1	1.6	4	8.37	0	2.88	8.37
15	Cook, Robyn	Raliegh, NC	3	5.18	1	2.95	4	8.13	0	2.95	8.13
16	Brumley, Daisy	Leesville, LA	1	2.27	1	2.61	2	4.88	0	2.61	4.88
17	Bowden, Cheryl	N. Richland Hills, TX	0	0	1	4.52	1	4.52	0	4.52	4.52
18	Kendrick, Wendy	Walker, LA	1	1.79	1	2.19	2	3.98	0	2.19	3.98
19	DarBonne, Julia	Many, LA	0	0	1	2.06	1	2.06	0	0.00	2.06
20	Baugh, Christena	Benton, AR	1	1.89	0	0	1	1.89	0	1.89	1.89
21	Carroll, Ann	Murphy, NC	0	0	1	1.64	1	1.64	0	1.64	1.64
22	Ashby, Rhonda	Mooringsport, LA	0	0	1	0.85	1	0.85	0	0.85	0.85
23	McCuiston, Marcella	Dawson Springs, KY	0	0	0	0	0	0.00	0	0.00	0.00

by AnglersChannel

Skiatook’s Webb Wins Saturday, Eldon’s Fitzpatrick and Grove’s Gilbreath Tie Sunday at Phoenix Bass Fishing League Double-Header on Arkansas River

MUSKOGEE, Okla. (June 29, 2020) – It was a double-header for bass anglers this past weekend in Muskogee with the Phoenix Bass Fishing League presented by T-H Marine on the Arkansas River events. FLW, the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, rescheduled the events after the coronavirus pandemic forced the organization to pause competition in mid-March.

Boater Mitchell Webb of Skiatook, Oklahoma, brought five bass to the scale totaling 16 pounds, 1 ounce to win Saturday’s event and earn $12,839 – including the lucrative $7,000 FLW PHOENIX BONUS contingency award – while boaters Roger Fitzpatrick of Eldon, Missouri, and Mike Gilbreath of Grove, Oklahoma, both brought in limits weighing 13 pounds, 13 ounces, on Sunday to tie for the win. Fitzpatrick earned $3,380 for his victory, while Gilbreath won a total of $6,880 after contingency awards.

“It started off kind of slow for me. I just kind of caught one here, then caught one there, and by the end of the day I realized I had a pretty decent limit,” said Webb, who earned his first career FLW win. “I stayed in Muskogee Pool and just covered a lot of water. I basically ran from lock to lock.

“I caught four of my five fishing flipping shallow, and the other one I caught on an offshore spot,” Webb went on to say. “I’d had a couple of mishaps with my tow vehicle earlier this week, so it feels good to finally come out on the right side of something.”

The top five boaters on Saturday were:

1^st: Mitchell Webb of Skiatook, Okla., five bass, 16-1, $12,839

2^nd: Caleb Black of McAlester, Okla., five bass, 15-2, $2,419

3^rd: Jeff Clark of Van Buren, Ark., five bass, 14-11, $1,614

4^th: Blake Capps of Muskogee, Okla., five bass, 13-4, $1,129

5^th: Jason Sandidge of Centerton, Ark., five bass, 13-2, $968

Complete results for Saturday can be found at FLWFishing.com.

Steven McLarty of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, brought a 5-pound, 4-ounce bass to the scale to win Saturday’s Boater Big Bass award of $730.

Webb was the highest-finishing FLW PHOENIX BONUS member and took home the top contingency payout of $7,000. 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 FLW PHOENIX BONUS contingency program can be found at PhoenixBassBoats.com.

Aubrey Herlocker of Stillwater, Oklahoma, won the Co-angler Division and $2,419 Saturday after catching five bass weighing 12 pounds, 4 ounces.

The top five co-anglers Saturday finished as follows:

1^st: Aubrey Herlocker of Stillwater, Okla., five bass, 13-15, $2,419

2^nd: Hunter Moody of Norman, Okla., three bass, 12-11, $1,210

3^rd: Porky Roberts of Morris, Okla., three bass, 12-10, $807

4^th: Matthew Hargarten of Bolivar, Mo., three bass, 12-9, $565

5^th: Chase Fitzpatrick of Eldon, Mo., two bass, 12-3, $484

Joe Landers of Okemah, Oklahoma, caught the largest bass in the Co-angler Division Saturday, weighing in at 5 pounds, 3 ounces. The catch earned him the day’s Co-angler Big Bass award of $365.

On Sunday, winning boaters Roger Fitzpatrick and Mike Gilbreath also stayed in Muskogee Pool.

“I caught a limit fairly early on a crankbait, but it only weighed around 10 pounds and I knew it wasn’t going to help me much,” said Fitzpatrick, who earned his ninth career FLW victory. “I spent the rest of my day flipping wood with a Zoom Speed Craw.

“I also found a little hyacinth patch that had floated to the bank,” Fitzpatrick continued. “It was near deeper water – over 5 feet – and I ended up catching my three biggest fish out of that.”

Gilbreath fished a similar pattern as Fitzpatrick.

“I had a great time out there,” Gilbreath said. “I caught some early on a squarebill crankbait, then flipped in the creeks later in the day. It was tough – I found a few areas where I had to make 8 to 10 casts to the same piece of structure before I’d get a bite – but all in all it was a very good day.”

The top five boaters on Sunday were:

1^st: Roger Fitzpatrick of Eldon, Mo., five bass, 13-13, $3,380

1^st: Mike Gilbreath of Grove, Okla., five bass, 13-13, $6,880

3^rd: Ed Barton of Vian, Okla., five bass, 13-11, $1,502

4^th: Jared Miller of Norman, Okla., five bass, 12-7, $1,052

5^th: Joel Baker of Talala, Okla., five bass, 11-10, $901

Complete results for Sunday’s event on the Arkansas River can be found at FLWFishing.com

Scott Burkett of Bokchito, Oklahoma, brought a 4-pound, 12-ounce bass to the scale Sunday to earn the day’s Boater Big Bass award of $655.

Thad Hewitt of Delaware, Oklahoma, won the Co-angler Division and $2,253 Sunday after catching a five-bass limit weighing 12 pounds, 11 ounces.

The top five co-anglers Sunday finished as follows:

1^st: Thad Hewitt of Delaware, Okla., five bass, 12-11, $2,253

2^nd: Ken Coats of Claremore, Okla., five bass, 12-10, $1,127

3^rd: Maverick Mosiman of Bel Aire, Kan., five bass, 11-12, $751

4^th: Aaron Warren of Inola, Okla., four bass, 10-14, $526

4^th: Raymond Moody of Norman, Okla., five bass, 10-13, $451

Bill Wiles of Arcadia, Oklahoma caught Sunday’s largest bass in the Co-angler Division, weighing in at 4 pounds, 8 ounces to earn him the day’s Co-angler Big Bass award of $327.

The 2020 Phoenix Bass Fishing League presented by T-H Marine Double-Header on the Arkansas River was the third and fourth of five qualifying events in the Okie Division.

The top 45 boaters and co-anglers in the Okie Division based on point standings, along with the five winners of each qualifying event, will be entered in the Oct. 22-24 Phoenix Bass Fishing League Regional Championship on Table Rock Lake in Branson, Missouri, hosted by ExploreBranson.com. 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 18-foot Phoenix bass boat with a 200-horsepower outboard

The 2020 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 2020 Phoenix Bass Fishing League All-American will be held Nov. 11-13 at Lake Hartwell in Anderson, South Carolina and is hosted by Visit Anderson. The top 45 boaters and co-anglers plus tournament winners from each Phoenix Bass Fishing League division earn priority entry into the FLW Series, the pathway to the FLW Pro Circuit and ultimately the MLF Bass Pro Tour, where top pros compete with no entry fees.

For complete details and updated information visit FLWFishing.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

FLW Shifts Toyota Series Northern Event to Lake Erie

SANDUSKY, Ohio (June 29, 2020) – FLW, the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, announced today that due to New York’s recently announced travel restrictions, the organization will shift its July 9-11 Toyota Series Northern Division opener from the St. Lawrence River at Massena, New York, to Lake Erie at Sandusky, Ohio.

“The City of Sandusky is excited for the opportunity to host the Toyota Series at the Shelby Street Boat Launch facility,” said Eric Wobser, City Manager for the City of Sandusky. “We welcome the opportunity to provide access from our waterfront downtown destination and are encouraged by FLW’s commitment to safety and the guidelines set during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

“The Town of Massena deeply regrets that FLW has to reschedule the Toyota Series outside New York State due to the newly-implemented directives for people traveling from other parts of the country,” said Don Meissner, Tournament Coordinator for the Town of Massena. “The town highly values its relationship with FLW and we look forward to future tournaments.”

Entries will roll over to the rescheduled event unless instructed otherwise.

FLW continues to monitor Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), federal, state and local guidelines. Officials are still evaluating options for other New York events, including the 2020 Tackle Warehouse FLW TITLE presented by Toyota, currently scheduled Aug. 24-29 at the St. Lawrence River in Massena, New York. No additional updates are available at this time.

For complete details and updated information visit FLWFishing.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.

by AnglersChannel

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