Postseason Bassmaster Tournaments Scheduled For North Georgia Fisheries In 2018

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November 3, 2017

Postseason Bassmaster Tournaments Scheduled For North Georgia Fisheries In 2018

For the first time, the Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year Championship will be held on Lake Chatuge on the Georgia/North Carolina border Sept. 20-23, 2018. The only other B.A.S.S. events held on this fishery were the 2013 and 2014 Carhartt Bassmaster College Series National Championships.

Photo by B.A.S.S.

Nov. 2, 2017

Postseason Bassmaster Tournaments Scheduled For North Georgia Fisheries In 2018

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BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — For the first time in its five-year existence, the Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year Championship will be held below the Mason-Dixon Line — on Lake Chatuge on the Georgia/North Carolina border, B.A.S.S. announced today.
The championship will be held Sept. 20-23, 2018, and will feature the 50 top-ranked Bassmaster Elite Series anglers, based on Angler of the Year points earned during the nine-event Elite season, said Bruce Akin, CEO of B.A.S.S.
Akin also revealed that the 2018 Classic Bracket tournament will be held Oct. 23-26, also in northern Georgia, at 3,200-acre Carters Lake near Ellijay.
Earlier today, Akin announced that the 2018 Toyota Bassmaster Texas Fest tournament, one of the nine regular-season events of the Bassmaster Elite Series, will be held May 17-20 on Lake Travis near Austin, Texas.
“The AOY Championship is one of our three ‘majors’ — along with Toyota Bassmaster Texas Fest and the GEICO Bassmaster Classic — that pay out $1 million or more and have developed a huge and loyal following,” Akin said. “This year’s championship was super exciting in that Brandon Palaniuk didn’t wrap up his AOY title until the very last day of competition.”
In addition to the $100,000 prize that goes to the Toyota Angler of the Year, the contestant who weighs in the heaviest total catch of the event will receive $25,000. The rest of the $1 million prize fund will be awarded to the Top 50 pros based on their final standings in AOY points. The event also determines at least 36 qualifiers for the Classic from the Elite Series.
Previous AOY championships have been held at Escanaba, Mich.; Sturgeon Bay, Wis.; and, for the past two years, Mille Lacs Lake in Minnesota. All three areas are renowned for their trophy smallmouth fishing.
The AOY Championship will mark the first time for a professional Bassmaster tournament to be held on Lake Chatuge, a 7,500-acre Tennessee Valley Authority impoundment, but it hosted Carhartt Bassmaster College Series Championship tournaments in 2013 and 2014. Weigh-ins and other activities will be at the Towns County Conference and Recreation Center in Young Harris, Ga.
“We are excited to be hosting a tournament of this caliber, and we look forward to showcasing the beauty of our small mountain community to people from all over the world,” said Candace Lee, president of the Towns County Chamber of Commerce. “We want to put Lake Chatuge on the map as one of the best fishing lakes in the Southeast — as well as the most beautiful.”
The four-day Classic Bracket tournament provides one final opportunity for one Elite angler to qualify for the 2019 GEICO Bassmaster Classic presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods. Conducted entirely in front of Bassmaster LIVE cameras, the Classic Bracket follows a catch-weigh-release format. Anglers compete head-to-head, trying to compile a heavier five-bass catch than their opponents, until only one is left standing. Qualifiers are the first eight anglers in AOY points below the cut to the Classic.
Jacob Powroznik, an Elite Series angler from Virginia, prevailed in this year’s Bracket to earn an invitation to the 2018 Classic, to be held March 16-18 on Lake Hartwell at Anderson, S.C.
Carters Lake is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers impoundment of the Coosawattee River in Gilmer and Murray counties in the Blue Ridge Mountains of north Georgia. With a maximum depth of 547 feet, it’s the deepest reservoir in the state, and one of the most scenic.
“We are thrilled to be a first-time host community for a top tier B.A.S.S. event,” said Paige Green, president and CEO of the Gilmer Chamber. “Carters Lake and Ellijay look forward to welcoming eight of the world’s Elite anglers to our beautiful mountain community. It is our hope that everyone experiences exciting fishing, nature’s beauty and true southern hospitality.”
For more information about these and other Bassmaster tournaments, visit Bassmaster.com. For information about the Lake Chatuge area, visit golakechatuge.com, and for more on Carters Lake and Ellijay, go to explorethemountains.com.

2017 Bassmaster Elite Series Platinum Sponsor: Toyota

2017 Bassmaster Elite Series Premier Sponsors: Humminbird, Nitro Boats, Mercury, Minn Kota, Power-Pole, Shell Rotella, Skeeter Boats, Triton Boats, Yamaha, Berkley, Huk

2017 Bassmaster Elite Series Supporting Sponsors: Shimano, Advance Auto Parts, Livingston Lures, Academy Sports + Outdoors, Carhartt, Dick Cepek Tires & Wheels, Lowrance, Phoenix Boats, T-H Marine

THRIFT LEADS DAY ONE OF COSTA FLW SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP ON KENTUCKY LAKE

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November 3, 2017

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THRIFT LEADS DAY ONE OF COSTA FLW SERIES CHAMPIONSHIP ON KENTUCKY LAKE

Virginia’s Hicks Leads Co-angler Division

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PARIS, Tenn. (Nov. 2, 2017) – Pro Bryan Thrift of Shelby, North Carolina, caught a five-bass limit weighing 27 pounds, 8 ounces, Thursday to grab the early lead after Day One of the Costa FLW Series Championship on Kentucky Lake. Thrift will bring a sizable 7-pound, 1-ounce, advantage into Day Two of the three-day event, hosted by Henry County Tourism Authority, that features anglers from across the world casting for a $95,000 prize package in the Pro Division, including a new Ranger Z518C boat with a 200-horsepower Evinrude outboard and automatic qualification to the 2018 Forrest Wood Cup – the world championship of bass fishing.

For most of the pro field, Kentucky Lake fished tough. Only 30 anglers were able to bring a five-bass limit to the scale, and only two breached the 20-pound mark. Thrift’s day didn’t start strong, but he eventually got the right bites to rally ahead of the pack.

“It went a whole lot better than I thought it was going to go. Twenty pounds better,” said Thrift, the reigning 2017 FLW Tour Angler of the Year who qualified for the event through the FLW Series Southeastern Division. “I finally started getting a few bites mid-morning. My catches were scattered – one here, one there. I feel like I may have figured a little something out. I’m not totally convinced yet, but I feel like I’m close.”

Thrift fished on the southern end of the lake from Paris to New Johnsonville, and said that he caught his keepers on two different baits.

“The fish I caught today were from stuff I hadn’t fished in practice,” said Thrift. “I caught one keeper from a place I’d fished in practice, and after that it was a grind. I was legitimately worried about catching keepers – it was that tough.”

The top 10 boaters after Day One of competition on Kentucky Lake are:

1^st: Bryan Thrift, Shelby, N.C., five bass, 27-8

2^nd: Cameron Gautney, Muscle Shoals, Ala., five bass, 20-7

3^rd: Chad Foster, Saint Cloud, Fla., five bass, 19-13

4^th: Sheldon Collings, Grove, Okla., five bass, 18-4

5^th: Bradford Beavers, Ridgeville, S.C., five bass, 15-13

6^th: Kurt Mitchell, Milford, Del., five bass, 15-8

7^th: Ron Nelson, Berrien Springs, Mich., five bass, 15-7

8^th: Dustin Smith, Grand Island, Fla., four bass, 15-3

9^th: Todd Hollowell, Fishers, Ind., five bass, 15-2

10^th: Jason Abram, Piney Flats, Tenn., five bass, 14-15

A complete list of results can be found at FLWFishing.com.

Competitors qualified for the Costa FLW Series Championship through five U.S. divisions – Central, Northern, Southeastern, Southwestern and Western – and an International division that features anglers from Canada, China, Mexico, South Africa and South Korea. The highest finishing pro from each U.S. division and the International division will qualify for the 2018 Forrest Wood Cup, along with the overall top five finishers not already selected as the highest finisher of a division. A total of 11 FLW Series boaters will advance to the 2018 Forrest Wood Cup.

The day one leaders from each division are:

Southeastern Division – Bryan Thrift, Shelby, N.C., five bass, 27-8, (1st)

Central Division – Cameron Gautney, Muscle Shoals, Ala., five bass, 20-7, (2nd)

Southwestern Division – Sheldon Collings, Grove, Okla., five bass, 18-4, (4th)

Northern Division – Kurt Mitchell, Milford, Del., five bass, 15-8, (6th)

Western Division – Brent Shores, Boise, Idaho, 13-13, (15th)

International Division – Michael Matthee, South Africa, 11-9, (26th)

Justin Hicks of Roanoke, Virginia, caught four bass weighing 16 pounds, 13 ounces, to lead the Co-angler Division, followed by Austin Baskette of Leesburg, Florida, in second place with three bass weighing 13-3.

The top 10 co-anglers on Kentucky Lake are:

1^st: Justin Hicks, Roanoke, Va., four bass, 16-13

2^nd: Austin Baskette, Leesburg, Fla., three bass, 13-3

3^rd: Gabriel Scott, Stanardsville, Va., five bass, 11-7

4^th: Gary Haraguchi, Redding, Calif., four bass, 11-5

5^th: Keith Gunsauls, El Cajon, Calif., three bass, 11-5

6^th: Ralph Wells, Lake Havasu City, Ariz., four bass, 10-13

7^th: Casey O’Donnell, Langston, Ala., three bass, 10-7

8^th: Frank Divis Sr., Farmington, Ark., four bass, 9-8

9^th: Craig Dubois, Sprakers, N.Y., three bass, 9-4

10^th: Jonathan Fulton, Ray, Ohio, four bass, 8-15

Co-anglers are casting this week for a top award of a Ranger Z175 boat with a 90-horsepower Evinrude outboard and $5,000 if Ranger Cup guidelines are met.

Anglers will take off from Paris Landing State Park, located at 16055 Highway 79 N. in Buchanan, Tennessee, at 7:30 a.m. CDT Friday and Saturday. Weigh-ins will be held at the state park beginning at 3:30 p.m. each day. Takeoffs and weigh-ins are free and open to the public.

For complete details and updated information visit FLWFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the Costa FLW Series on Facebook at Facebook.com/FLWFishing and on Twitter at Twitter.com/FLWFishing.

Toyota Bassmaster Texas Fest To Be Held On Lake Travis In Central Texas

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November 2, 2017

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Toyota Bassmaster Texas Fest To Be Held On Lake Travis In Central Texas

The 2018 Toyota Bassmaster Texas Fest benefiting Texas Parks and Wildlife Department will be held on Lake Travis near Jonestown, Texas, May 17-20. Brandon Palaniuk, pictured above, won the first Toyota Bassmaster Texas Fest on Sam Rayburn Reservoir in May 2017.

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

Nov. 2, 2017

Toyota Bassmaster Texas Fest To Be Held On Lake Travis In Central Texas

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BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The inaugural Toyota Bassmaster Texas Fest benefiting the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department was held in May on one of the best-known and most popular tournament fisheries in the United States: Sam Rayburn Reservoir near Lufkin, Texas.

The 2018 edition of the $1 million Elite Series event will take place May 17-20 on a lake that B.A.S.S. has never visited before — Lake Travis near Jonestown, Texas — Bruce Akin, B.A.S.S. CEO, announced today.

“In its 50-year history, B.A.S.S. has held events on Sam Rayburn 31 times, but we’ve never had a professional-level bass tournament on Lake Travis,” Akin said. “It’s doubtful that many of our Elite Series anglers have ever fished the lake, and that’s bound to make for an exciting competition for the anglers and their fans.”

A picturesque, clear, highland reservoir on the Colorado River, Travis is popular among recreational boaters and watersport enthusiasts in the Austin area, and it also possesses a burgeoning bass fishery that anglers across the country are beginning to discover, according to Dave Terre, Texas’ chief of Inland Fisheries Management and Research.

“Lake Travis caught a bunch of new water in 2015 that inundated thousands of acres of brush habitat, resulting in a significant expansion of its bass population,” Terre explained. “TPWD responded by stocking over 750,000 Florida bass to enhance fishing quality. Lake Travis has since become a top destination for Texas bass anglers. We are excited to showcase this lake to a nationwide audience.”

“With 110 of the best bass anglers on the planet converging on Lake Travis, the millions of fishing fans who watch our live coverage of the event or read about it later will appreciate why this lake is considered the ‘crown jewel’ of the Colorado,” Akin added.

The event, which is covered in real time on Bassmaster LIVE programming on Bassmaster.com and WatchESPN and in a special episode of The Bassmasters television program to be aired later on ESPN2 and ESPN3, also will focus the national spotlight on the catch-weigh-release tournament format pioneered by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) in the Toyota Texas Bass Classic.

Each Elite angler will be accompanied by a “judge” who will verify that the angler’s bass are weighed on a set of extremely accurate handheld scales. Weights of the five heaviest bass each day will go into each angler’s creel, and the heaviest four-day catch earns the $100,000 first-place award as well as a guaranteed invitation to the 2019 GEICO Bassmaster Classic presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods.

Anglers also will be able to bring in their heaviest bass of the day, if it’s longer than a predetermined minimum, to show off to the weigh-in crowd. Fish weighed in at Jones Brothers Park in Jonestown, Texas, will be returned to the lake and released alive. The heaviest bass of the tournament is worth a new Toyota Tundra pick-up with an estimated value of $50,000. The lake record is a 14.2-pound largemouth caught in 1993, but Travis is known more for its quantity of good-size bass than for producing giants like that one.

“We’re excited to continue to showcase Texas’ Parks and Wildlife through one of the largest competitive fishing events in the country,” said Brent Hillyer, vice president marketing for Gulf States Toyota. “The Texas-built* Tundra’s power and capabilities for the outdoors makes it the ideal truck to be awarded to the winner of the heaviest catch in the Toyota Bassmaster Texas Fest.”

Terre pointed out that more than $2.75 million has been generated for fisheries projects through Texas Fest and its predecessor, Toyota Texas Bass Classic, since 2007. Proceeds benefit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s youth fishing and urban outreach programs, including the Neighborhood Fishin’ Program, which brings fishing to families at 18 community park lakes in 11 urban areas, and the Texas Division of the Wildlife Forever State-Fish Art Contest, which seeks to interest youth in grades K-12 in fishing.

Texas Fest has already become known as a must-attend event for fishing families. On Friday and Saturday at the Jones Brothers Park expo site, a “Get Hooked on Fishing” interactive children’s program will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering casting lessons, a fishing pond and chances to mingle with their fishing heroes. Fan Appreciation Day is Saturday, May 19, and will feature Bassmaster University fishing seminars taught by Elite Series anglers, as well as the Texas Parks and Wildlife Outdoor Adventures displays and activities.

“The City of Jonestown welcomes the Bassmaster Elite Series Tournament to Jones Brothers Park on the scenic North Shore of Lake Travis. We look forward to showcasing our spacious park with three boat ramps that is a popular site for anglers year-round,” said Ron Wilde, City Administrator. Wilde noted that the 32-acre park was built in 1985, has 2,100 feet of shoreline and connects to other city parks by a scenic walking trail.

Another highlight of the Lake Travis event will be the Bassmaster High School All-American Fishing Team tournament, which pairs the 12 top high school anglers in the country with Elite anglers for a one-day fun-fishing competition on a nearby lake.

Idaho angler Brandon Palaniuk won the 2017 Toyota Bassmaster Texas Fest on Sam Rayburn. It provided a springboard for a dream season that culminated in his winning the Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year title.

(*Assembled in Texas with U.S. and globally sourced parts.)

(Note: For broadcast purposes, b-roll is available for use at vimeo.com/user8912815/review/240863990/2c435cef42 with the password TBTF18.)

What’s The Difference Between Highland And Lowland Reservoirs?

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November 2, 2017

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What’s The Difference Between Highland And Lowland Reservoirs?

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Knowing the difference between highland and lowland reservoirs helps you determine which patterns and techniques work best on the lake you intend to fish.

Lowland Reservoirs

Generally a “lowland reservoir” is more fertile with off-color water, shallower water and more cover, such as flooded timber. Sam Rayburn and Toledo Bend are classic examples of lowland reservoirs. Key targets for catching bass on lowland reservoirs include backs of creeks, tributaries, offshore humps, standing timber, grass beds and milfoil.

A lowland reservoir both cools and heats faster than an upland impoundment. Shallow water absorbs heat, so in a lake with lots of shallow bays the water in those areas warm faster from the sunlight because there is less water volume and depth for the sun’s rays to warm. These areas also cool faster because they lose heat faster.

Highland Reservoirs

Highland lakes have real steep bluff banks at least in the lower end of the reservoir. Good examples of highland reservoirs are Table Rock and Bull Shoals. A highland reservoir takes longer to heat up in spring but it also takes longer to cool down because of deeper water. The best spots to try for bass on highland reservoirs include channel swings, points, bluffs, sunken brush piles and rock piles.

What To Throw In Lowland Reservoirs

Square-bill crankbaits, spinnerbaits, flipping jigs and soft plastic creature baits are productive lures to throw in the dirty waters of lowland reservoirs.

What To Throw In Highland Reservoirs

Lures to try in the deep waters of highland reservoirs include deep-diving crankbaits, football jigs, jigging spoons and a variety of soft plastic finesse baits. A spinnerbait also works well on highland reservoirs, especially when burning it back at a fast retrieve where the lure is just bulging the surface across open water. In a clear-water situation like that, bass will streak up from depths of 20 to 25 feet to blast the blade bait.

Highland lakes offer better fishing in the late fall, winter and early spring. Lowland lakes are generally less productive during the winter or in any cold weather during the fall or springtime.

Highland And Lowland Reservoirs Combos

There are also lakes with both highland and lowland reservoirs characteristics such as my home waters of Lake of the Ozarks or Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees. These lakes have both steep bluffs and clear water on the lower ends and shallow, dirty water in the upper ends.

So if you have both types of reservoirs in your area, or combinations of both, you can enjoy good bass fishing year-round!

Looking To Try Mystery Tackle Box?

Do you want to get better at fishing, try new lures, or just surprise yourself with something fun every month? Then be sure to check out a Mystery Tackle Box Subscription for at least one month. You’ll get the best new baits plus tips, how-to videos, decals and more. With over 70,000 members this is one service you can’t pass up!

FLW ANNOUNCES ITALY AS SIXTH COUNTRY TO BEGIN SANCTIONING FLW FISHING TOURNAMENTS

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November 2, 2017

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FLW ANNOUNCES ITALY AS SIXTH COUNTRY TO BEGIN SANCTIONING FLW FISHING TOURNAMENTS

JIMMY ASHLOCK SIGNS EXCLUSIVE LICENSING AGREEMENT TO RUN FLW BASS-FISHING TOURNAMENTS IN ITALY

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MINNEAPOLIS (Nov. 1, 2017) – Fishing League Worldwide (FLW), the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, announced an exclusive licensing agreement with Jimmy Ashlock, of Treviso, Italy, to begin sanctioning FLW bass-fishing tournaments in Italy. The agreement was signed by FLW President of Operations Kathy Fennel and Ashlock, CEO and President of FLW Italy.

“We are really excited to become FLW partners and believe that we have a tremendous opportunity to grow the sport of bass fishing in Italy,” said Ashlock. “The FLW international sanctioning program is the best program for anglers worldwide, and our goal is to work collaboratively to grow the global FLW brand and help to advance bass fishing as a worldwide sport.”

Italy will run a series of FLW tournaments that advance anglers, who are citizens of the host country, to the International Division at the Costa FLW Series Championship beginning in 2018. Two anglers will compete as pros, with FLW providing Ranger boats, and two will compete as co-anglers.

The top pro award at the Costa FLW Series Championship is $95,000, including a Ranger Z518C boat with a 200-horsepower Evinrude outboard if the pro is Ranger Cup qualified, and the top co-angler award is a Ranger Z175 boat with a 90-horsepower Evinrude outboard. The highest finishing pro from the International Division at the Costa FLW Series Championship will advance to the following year’s Forrest Wood Cup for the chance to compete on the sport’s biggest stage. FLW will also provide a Ranger boat for use in the Forrest Wood Cup.

“We are excited to add Italy to the growing list of countries that are now offering FLW tournaments,” said Kathy Fennel, FLW president of operations. “The international expansion of FLW has flourished over the last three years, and we are proud to announce our latest addition on the eve of the 2017 Costa FLW Series Championship, which will showcase international anglers from all over the world. We look forward to the talented Italian anglers joining the competition in 2018.”

Italy is the sixth country to sign on for the international sanctioning program, joining Canada, China, Mexico, South Africa and South Korea.

Additional FLW qualifying tournaments in other countries will continue to be forthcoming. Watch FLWFishing.com for details.

Named after the founder of Ranger Boats, Forrest L. Wood, FLW introduced its Fishing League Worldwide tagline in 2014 to better reflect its status as the world’s largest tournament fishing organization. In early 2015, FLW expanded its presence on the world stage with the introduction of a sanctioning program allowing international partners to license the iconic brand and run FLW tournaments abroad.

Garmin Introduces Striker Plus Fishfinders – FTR

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November 1, 2017

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Garmin Introduces Striker Plus Fishfinders – FTR

OLATHE, Kan.— Garmin International, Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ: GRMN), today announced the STRIKER^TM Plus series – proven fishfinders with industry-leading sonar that are packed with new features to help anglers find and catch more fish, yet easy as ever to use.

“The new STRIKER Plus series has the features that will bring the benefit of built-in GPS, Quickdraw^TM Contours and Wi-Fi® to first-time users, and will convince existing STRIKER customers to upgrade,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president global consumer sales. “These new fishfinders are the perfect entry-level solution for anglers who want the best sonar available plus the ability to create and store their own contour maps.”

Like the first-gen STRIKER series, the STRIKER Plus offers built-in CHIRP traditional sonar and CHIRP ClearVü and SideVü scanning sonar technology. In addition to crystal clear fish arches and remarkable target separation with CHIRP sonar, Garmin ClearVü shows a nearly photographic wide image of what passes below the boat, while SideVü gives anglers a crisp, clear view of what lies off to each side of the boat, including structure, submerged objects and fish.

Garmin Striker Family

Nobody knows the waters better than the anglers that fish them, and now STRIKER Plus users can create HD fishing maps of the places they’ve been. Thanks to the built-in Quickdraw Contours mapping software, it’s easy to create and store up to 2 million acres of maps with

1-foot contours. Once the feature is turned on, users will instantly see contours with labels generated right on the screen as the boat moves – there’s no waiting around or sending the files to Garmin. The results are quick and accurate, and can be viewed in real-time, or created in the background for use at a later time. For the most comprehensive coverage, Quickdraw Contours clearly shows where usable depth information has been collected and where gaps exist, so users can easily see what still needs to be collected.

With the addition of built-in Wi-Fi¹, users can take advantage of the free all-in-one Garmin ActiveCaptain^TM mobile app that creates a simple yet powerful connection between a compatible mobile device and a STRIKER Plus unit. Thanks to ActiveCaptain, waypoints and routes can be transferred directly to a STRIKER Plus unit making it easier than ever for anglers to pre-fish a body of water. Smart notifications are also delivered right on the screen as well as over-the-are software updates so users will always have access to the latest feature improvements from Garmin before heading out for the day. ActiveCaptain also makes it possible to quickly and easily access the Quickdraw Contours Community to share or download new user-collected data.

The Plus series comes standard with a built-in high-sensitivity GPS receiver, so fishermen have the ability to not only see fish and structure below the boat, but also to quickly and easily mark favorite fishing spots and other areas of interest like brush piles, stumps and docks, and get back to them. When trolling, the high-sensitivity GPS provides an update once per second, giving fishermen the precision needed to dial in the exact trolling speed and optimize lure presentation. Users can also share waypoint data across multiple STRIKER Plus units, as well as the new ECHOMAP Plus series devices.

Available with a 5- or 7-inch display, the Plus series also adds a larger 4.3- and 9-inch model to the lineup, all with bright, sunlight readable color displays. With a rugged design and keyed interface that’s built to withstand the harsh marine environment, the STRIKER Plus series comes with everything anglers need – including transom- and trolling-motor transducer and mounting hardware – to make getting on the water fast and easy. The six new models offer flexible mounting so the devices can be tilted for an optimum-viewing angle. An optional flush-mount kit is available for in-dash installation. Additionally, the STRIKER Plus series is compatible with a wide-range of optional Garmin scanning transducers to customize sonar performance and installation options.

The new STRIKER Plus fishfinders will be available in Q4 2017 with suggested retail prices ranging from $139.99 to $699.99. For more information, visit garmin.com/newmarine.

Garmin Acquires Navionics October 27, 2017 FTR

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November 1, 2017

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Garmin Acquires Navionics October 27, 2017 FTR

SCHAFFHAUSEN, Switzerland—Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ: GRMN) today announced that it has acquired Navionics S.p.A., a privately-held worldwide provider of electronic navigational charts and mobile applications for the marine industry.

“Navionics has long been known as a leading supplier of highly accurate navigational charts and mobile applications for boaters,” said Cliff Pemble, Garmin president and CEO. “By combining Navionics’ content with Garmin’s BlueChart® and LakeVü™ content, we will be able to offer the best available breadth and depth of coverage to our marine customers. Going forward, we plan to retain the Navionics brand and will continue to support Navionics’ existing customers.”

“Since our founding, Navionics has been passionate about creating products that enhance the boating experience,” said Giuseppe Carnevali, Navionics founder and president. “Garmin shares our passion for serving the marine industry, and is an ideal company to carry the strong brand and reputation of Navionics into the future.”

In addition to a popular boating app, Navionics has developed an extensive repository of nautical charts for oceans, rivers, and lakes. Many of these charts have been developed with Navionics’ proprietary surveys, done both in the field and with remote sensing such as satellite imagery and airborne laser scanners.

Navionics is headquartered in Viareggio, Italy, and employs more than 350 associates globally, who will be retained. Financial terms of the acquisition will not be released.

3 Ways To Catch Shallow Water Bass, Without Spooking Them

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November 1, 2017

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3 Ways To Catch Shallow Water Bass, Without Spooking Them

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Bass get in different moods and there are times when they are a lot spookier. You’ll see a lot of signs that you are spooking fish, such as bushes and reeds shaking or mud boils in spots where bass have vacated in a hurry.

1. Watch Your Shallow Water Bass Approach

The first precaution you should take when shallow water bass fishing is during your approach. Try to approach an area as naturally as possible. If the area and its surroundings are still, then shut off your outboard engine a safe distance from the area and enter it as quietly as you can. If your area has a lot of wave action and commotion, then your approach doesn’t need to be as quiet.

2. Limit Your Boat Noise

Next, avoid constantly switching your trolling motor on and off. Figure out the speed you need to work the cover and stretch of water you’re fishing and keep the trolling motor running constantly on that speed to avoid spooking shallow water bass.

If you need to talk, speak in a low tone to your partner. Also avoid excessive noise such as dropping stuff on the bass boat’s deck that will spook shallow bass.

3. Know Your Shallow Water Bass Presentation

A pitching or flipping presentation to make a quiet lure entry also prevents spooking a big bass in the shallows. When the lure enters the water it looks like a baitfish has flicked, which draws a bass’ attention rather than spooking it.

In clear water, the sight factor becomes more important so you have to stay farther away from fish when working the shallows. Wear clothing in low-key colors such as gray or camouflage to make it harder for bass to see you.

You also need to avoid rapid movements in the boat and keep a low profile when fishing shallow in clear water. Casting a shadow on the fish is about the worst thing you can do so avoid casting to spots where you have cast your shadow.

Take these precautions the next time you fish for shallow water bass and you will enhance your opportunities to catch bigger fish.

Do you want to get better at fishing, try new lures, or just surprise yourself with something fun every month? Then be sure to check out a Mystery Tackle Box Subscription for at least one month. You’ll get the best new baits plus tips, how-to videos, decals and more. With over 70,000 members this is one service you can’t pass up!

Joey Dawson Win’s 2017 Virginia Bass Nation 2017 Championship on Kerr Lake

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October 30, 2017

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Joey Dawson Win’s 2017 Virginia Bass Nation 2017 Championship on Kerr Lake

Day One Results

Final Results

T-H Marine Supplies Continues Sponsorship of Alabama Bass Trail

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October 30, 2017

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T-H Marine Supplies Continues Sponsorship

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Decatur, Ala. (October 30, 2017) – The Alabama Bass Trail is pleased to announce that T-H Marine Supplies will continue its sponsorship of the Alabama Bass Trail Tournament Series (ABTTS) in 2018. The Huntsville-based boat parts and accessory manufacturer has also committed to be the presenting sponsor of the Open Tournament, set to launch in 2018.

“The success of the Alabama Bass Trail Tournament Series is largely attributed to our great sponsors,” stated Alabama Bass Trail Program Director Kay Donaldson. “T-H Marine Supplies, Inc. is one of the most trusted names in the marine industry and we are honored they see the benefit of partnering with us. 2018 will mark the fifth year of our partnership and to have them jump on board as the presenting sponsor of our first Open Tournament shows the great deal of confidence they have in us.”

During the tournament series, T-H Marine Supplies will supply its trademarked OxygenatorTM and G-Juice Live Well Treatment where they will be used in the water weigh-in system to assist in a 100% live release of fish back into their habitats at the conclusion of the tournament. The OxygenatorTM uses a patented process to create 100% pure oxygen from the water itself by separating the water molecules into their elemental parts: hydrogen and oxygen. The lighter hydrogen molecules rapidly leave the water and dissipate into the atmosphere. The heavier oxygen molecule remains suspended until it dissolves in the water. The G-Juice formulation was developed from over 15 years of research spent in the baitfish, fish transporting, and sport fishing industries.

Considered the best outboard jack plates on the market, T-H Marine’s ATLASTM hydraulic jack plate will serve as the official jack plate of the Alabama Bass Trail. Made in the United States, the ATLASTM is factory installed by more boat manufacturers than any other plate and is used by more professional fishermen than any other hydraulic jack plate.

“We are so pumped to see the Alabama Bass Trail going so strong for five years now. We are happy to have been there from the start to support this awesome trail on our beautiful home state’s lakes,” said T-H Marine’s President and CEO Jeff Huntley.

Serving the marine industry since 1975, T-H Marine Supplies, Inc. is headquartered in Huntsville, Ala., and employs over 125 people in two plants located in Alabama. Family owned and operated, T-H Marine is one of the nation’s largest suppliers of parts and accessories for recreational boats, offering over 3000 different products including outboard motor mounts, outboard tilt and trim, access hatches, deck plates, lid locks, deck hardware, live well aeration, fishing rod holders, boat lights, rigging accessories, trolling motor accessories, and general boat accessories. Their products are available at major retailers such as Academy Sports, Bass Pro Shops, Cabelas, Gander Mountain, and West Marine. For more information, visit www.thmarine.com.

Returning for the fifth season, the ABTTS is held on eleven of the lakes of the Alabama Bass Trail beginning February 17, 2018, with the championship tournament to be held on October 26-27, 2018. As part of the agreement, the Alabama Bass Trail will feature T-H Marine Supplies on all tournament related advertising, website, social media channels, and collateral materials.

North Division:

Pickwick Lake February 17, 2018 hosted by Florence-Lauderdale Tourism

Lake Guntersville March 10, 2018 hosted by TBA

Wheeler Lake April 21, 2018 hosted by Decatur-Morgan County CVB

Weiss Lake May 12, 2018 hosted by Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce

Logan Martin Lake June 9, 2018 hosted by Pell City Chamber of Commerce

South Division:

Lay Lake February 24, 2018 hosted by Shelby County Commission

Lake Martin March 24, 2018 hosted by Alexander City Chamber of Commerce

Lake Eufaula April 7, 2018 hosted by Eufaula-Barbour Chamber of Commerce

Lake Jordan May 5, 2018 hosted by Wetumpka Chamber of Commerce

Alabama River/Cooter’s Pond June 23, 2018 hosted by City of Prattville Parks and Recreation

Championship:

Neely Henry Lake October 26-27, 2018 hosted by Gadsden Parks and Recreation Department

The new Open Tournament makes its debut September 8, 2018, on Smith Lake. Hosted by the Chamber of Commerce of Walker County, the one-day tournament allows teams to compete in a single tournament instead of the tournament series, which has a five-weekend commitment. It has a $15,000 guaranteed first place prize and a total cash payout of over $70,000. The maximum number of boats is 250 in the amateur division and 25 in the professional division. The professional division will consist of one FLW or Bassmaster Elite Series Pro and one amateur who will be vying for a winner take-all $7,500 cash prize. The entry fee is $300 per team. Registration opens January 22, 2018.

For more information on the Alabama Bass Trail Tournament Series or Open Tournament, visit www.alabamabasstrail.org or call Program Director Kay Donaldson at 855.9FISHAL.

About Alabama Bass Trail

The Alabama Bass Trail is a program of the Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association. Its mission is to promote Alabama as a year-round fishing destination, to preserve natural resources for generations to come, and to educate high school and college-aged students to be good stewards of natural resources. The 13 bass fishing lakes consist of Lake Guntersville, Wheeler Lake, Pickwick Lake, Lewis Smith Lake, Neely Henry Lake, Weiss Lake, Lake Martin, Lay Lake, Logan Martin Lake, Lake Jordan, Alabama River, Lake Eufaula, and the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta. For more information, visit www.alabamabasstrail.org.

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