How To Set Your Reel Drag – MTB – July 30,2017

wpalert

-

July 30, 2017

How To Set Your Reel Drag

Losing a fish is a real drag (get it?), especially when you realize you forgot to set the reel drag.

You can adjust your reel’s drag by the star wheel beneath the handle of a baitcast reel or the knob above the spool on your spinning reel. The most accurate way to set your drag is to use a spring or digital scale to measure the amount of drag slippage. Your drag should be set at 25 percent of the breaking strength (pound test) of the line you are using. You can check the breaking strength by tying the line to the scale hook, holding your rod at a 45-degree angle and pulling down on the scale. Read the scale the moment the drag starts to slip and then adjust the drag mechanism until the drag slips at the same weight setting of the line on your reel.

PENNSYLVANIA’S BECKER WINS COSTA FLW SERIES NORTHERN DIVISION TOURNAMENT ON 1000 ISLANDS PRESENTED BY EVINRUDE

wpalert

-

July 29, 2017

0

PENNSYLVANIA’S BECKER WINS COSTA FLW SERIES NORTHERN DIVISION TOURNAMENT ON 1000 ISLANDS PRESENTED BY EVINRUDE

Finleyville Angler Tops 174-Boater Field, Takes Home $44,200

[print_link]

CLAYTON, N.Y. (July 29, 2017) – Boater Matt Becker of Finleyville, Pennsylvania, weighed a five-bass limit totaling 25 pounds, 2 ounces, Saturday to win the Costa FLW Series Northern Division tournament on 1000 Islands presented by Evinrude. Becker’s three-day total of 15 bass weighing 66 pounds, 4 ounces, was enough to earn the win and $44,200.

“Words can’t describe how I’m feeling right now,” said Becker, who earned his first career-victory in FLW competition. “I was just hoping to cash a check, so this is unbelievable.”

Becker said he spent the three-day tournament picking apart two primary stretches of water on Lake Ontario, near Galloo Island. He said he relied on one lure– a Yamamoto Shad Shape Worm on a drop-shot rig.

“Of the fish I weighed in this week, each of my areas produced about half of them,” said Becker. “Both locations were 25- to 30-feet deep and had rocky bottoms. Each had a drop that reached 50 to 60 feet of water, but the first spot was steep while the second sloped off more gradually.”

Becker said that each area had a 50- by 50-yard sweet spot that produced more notable catches. Every bass he weighed in was a smallmouth.

“After catching about 50 keepers on days one and two I only caught around 15 to 20 today, but they were a lot bigger,” said Becker. “The key for me was being able to see the fish on my Lowrance electronics during practice. Not every area that had rocks on the bottom had fish out there.”

The top 10 pros on 1000 Islands finished:

1^st: Matt Becker, Finleyville, Pa., 15 bass, 66-4, $44,200

2^nd: Joseph Fonzi, Gasport, N.Y., 15 bass, 65-11, $17,600

3^rd: Chris Johnston, Peterborough, Ontario, Canada, 15 bass, 65-9, $13,000

4^th: Kurt Mitchell, Milford, Del., 15 bass, 64-14, $11,000

5^th: Timmy Thompkins, Myrtle Beach, S.C., 15 bass, 63-8, $10,300

6^th: Power-Pole pro Cory Johnston, Cavan, Ontario, Canada, 62-4, $8,500

7^th: Casey Smith, Macedon, N.Y., 15 bass, 61-14, $7,400

8^th: Chris O’Brien, Rochester, N.Y., 15 bass, 61-0, $6,400

9^th: Ed Casey, Whiteford, Md., 14 bass, 53-5, $5,400

10^th: Cal Climpson, Sharon, Ontario, Canada, 15 bass, 49-2, $4,200

A complete list of results will be posted at FLWFishing.com.

Aaron Stone of Rome, New York, caught a 6-pound, 8-ounce bass Friday – the heaviest of the tournament in the Pro Division. For his catch, Stone earned the day’s Boater Big Bass award of $300.

Gary Haraguchi of Redding, California, won the Co-angler Division and a new Ranger Z175 with a 90-horsepower Evinrude outboard motor, along with a $5,000 Ranger Cup Bonus. Haraguchi earned his win with a three-day total of 15 bass weighing 53 pounds, 2 ounces.

The top 10 co-anglers on 1000 Islands finished:

1^st: Gary Haraguchi, Redding, Calif., 15 bass, 53-2, $27,700 + $5,000 Ranger Cup Bonus

2^nd: Mark Goetsch, Gibralter, Mich., 15 bass, 52-13, $5,500

3^rd: Mark Babcock, Warwick, N.Y., 15 bass, 49-12, $4,400

4^th: Andy Dick, Wilmington, Del., 13 bass, 44-1, $3,700

5^th: Bill Valberg, London, Ontario, Canada, 15 bass, 43-3, $3,200

6^th: Mike Merill, Brockville, Ontario, Canada, 14 bass, 40-3, $2,750

7^th: Andrew Owens, Dividing Creek, N.J., 12 bass, 38-11, $2,200

8^th: Justin Hicks, Roanoke, Va., 13 bass, 32-15, $1,850

9^th: Ed Bunnett, Belleville, Ontario, Canada, 10 bass, 31-4, $1,540

10^th: Corey Burton, Canton, Ohio, 11 bass, 28-14, $1,290

Brett Scullion of Lakefield, Ontario, Canada, caught the biggest bass of the tournament in the Co-angler Division Friday, a fish weighing 6 pounds, 11 ounces that earned him the day’s Co-angler Big Bass award of $200.

The Costa FLW Series Northern Division event on 1000 Islands presented by Evinrude was hosted by the Clayton Chamber of Commerce. It was the second Northern Division tournament of the 2017 season. The next Costa FLW Series tournament will also be a Northern Division tournament, held Aug. 24-26 on the Potomac River in Marbury, Maryland. For a complete schedule, visit FLWFishing.com.

The Costa FLW Series consists of five U.S. divisions – Central, Northern, Southeastern, Southwestern and Western. Each division consists of three tournaments with competitors vying for valuable points that could earn them the opportunity to fish in the Costa FLW Series Championship. The 2017 Costa FLW Series Championship is being held Nov. 2-4 on Kentucky Lake in Paris, Tennessee.

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.

Jacob Wheeler Catches 20-12 And Vaults To Lead In Bassmaster Elite At Champlain

wpalert

-

July 29, 2017

0

Jacob Wheeler Catches 20-12 And Vaults To Lead In Bassmaster Elite At Champlain

Jacob Wheeler of Indianapolis, Ind., takes the lead on the second day of the Bassmaster Elite at Lake Champlain presented by Dick Cepek Tires & Wheels, bringing 20 pounds, 12 ounces to the scales on Saturday for a two-day total weight of 38-8.

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

July 29, 2017

Jacob Wheeler Catches 20-12 And Vaults To Lead In Bassmaster Elite At Champlain

[print_link]

PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. — The second round of the Bassmaster Elite at Lake Champlain presented by Dick Cepek Tires & Wheels dawned with clear, high skies and still-as-glass conditions. Jacob Wheeler of Indianapolis, Ind., took advantage and boated a 20-pound, 12-ounce limit of smallmouth bass, which catapulted him 29 spots up the leaderboard to first place with one day left to fish. His two-day, 10-fish total is 38-8.

Wheeler’s story is remarkable not only because of his dramatic movement up the standings, but also because he did it with smallmouth. Although Champlain is a legendary smallmouth fishery, tournaments here, when held in late July and early August, are traditionally won with at least some largemouth. Even second-place Seth Feider, a smallmouth specialist, is targeting largemouth, and he weighed four of them today.

“Obviously it was a heck of a day,” Wheeler said. “I caught about 50 bass today and had the fish on to have a legitimate 22-pound bag of smallmouth. I think there’s 20 more pounds in that same area. This lake is phenomenal. You just can’t beat a lake where you can catch 20 pounds of smallmouth.”

Wheeler added that he’s fishing “isolated little places” and he’s only catching fish off places where he can see baitfish on his graph.

Feider, of Bloomington, Minn., weighed 19-15 today and improved 30 spots to second. His two-day weight is 37-8 — exactly 1 pound off the lead pace. Feider said his plan was to fish smallmouth for the tournament, but conditions forced him to adjust and also pursue largemouth.

“This lake runs north to south, and it’s deep, so there’s a ton of current that affects the fish,” Feider said. “When you get a north or south wind, you get that current, and that helps the smallmouth bite. An east or west wind, or light wind, hurts it. We didn’t have wind this morning, so I decided to go for largemouth.”

Three anglers are currently tied for third place with 37-7 — Brandon Lester of Fayetteville, Tenn., Steve Kennedy of Auburn, Ala. and Matt Lee of Guntersville, Ala.

Kennedy has weighed smallmouth exclusively. “I started on largemouth down at Ticonderoga in practice, like I always do here, but things didn’t seem right to me — there was an entire size of fish that just seemed to be missing. So I moved back up the lake and pretty quickly found what I was fishing today. At one point, I couldn’t get my bait to the bottom — the fish were hitting on every cast.”

Hayden, Idaho, pro Brandon Palaniuk is in 10th place with 36-14 and still leads the Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year race. Tournament leader Wheeler, however, is chasing and is now second in the points race, pending the final results of this event.

“I wasn’t thinking about the points at all today,” Palaniuk said. “I don’t let points tell me how to fish. I don’t even know what the gap is — all I know is that I’m still leading, because people tell me.”

The weather-shortened event concludes Sunday, after three days of fishing. The Top 51 anglers on today’s leaderboard advance to fish tomorrow.

Anglers launch Sunday from the City Marina in downtown Plattsburgh at 6:15 a.m. ET. Weigh-in begins at 3:15 p.m. at the Plattsburgh City Beach.

The event is hosted by the Adirondack Coast Visitors Bureau and the City of Plattsburgh.

2017 Bassmaster Elite at Champlain presented by Dick Cepek Tires & Wheels 7/27-7/30
Lake Champlain, Plattsburgh NY.
(PROFESSIONAL) Standings Day 2

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

1. Jacob Wheeler Harrison, TN 10 38-08 110 $500.00
Day 1: 5 17-12 Day 2: 5 20-12
2. Seth Feider Isle, MN 10 37-08 109
Day 1: 5 17-09 Day 2: 5 19-15
3. Brandon Lester Fayetteville, TN 10 37-07 108
Day 1: 5 19-15 Day 2: 5 17-08
4. Steve Kennedy Auburn, AL 10 37-07 107
Day 1: 5 17-10 Day 2: 5 19-13
5. Matt Lee Guntersville, AL 10 37-07 106
Day 1: 5 19-00 Day 2: 5 18-07
6. Jordan Lee Grant, AL 10 37-05 105
Day 1: 5 16-13 Day 2: 5 20-08
7. Jeff Kriet Ardmore, OK 10 37-05 104
Day 1: 5 20-04 Day 2: 5 17-01
8. Kelley Jaye Dadeville, AL 10 37-03 103
Day 1: 5 18-01 Day 2: 5 19-02
9. Alton Jones Lorena, TX 10 36-15 102
Day 1: 5 20-11 Day 2: 5 16-04
10. Brandon Palaniuk Hayden, ID 10 36-14 101
Day 1: 5 18-01 Day 2: 5 18-13
11. Adrian Avena Vineland, NJ 10 36-14 100
Day 1: 5 18-08 Day 2: 5 18-06
12. Matt Herren Ashville, AL 10 36-12 99
Day 1: 5 18-15 Day 2: 5 17-13
13. Ott DeFoe Knoxville, TN 10 36-11 98
Day 1: 5 18-12 Day 2: 5 17-15
14. Chris Lane Guntersville, AL 10 36-04 97
Day 1: 5 18-00 Day 2: 5 18-04
15. David Walker Sevierville, TN 10 36-02 96
Day 1: 5 18-06 Day 2: 5 17-12
16. Brent Ehrler Redlands, CA 10 35-13 95
Day 1: 5 18-04 Day 2: 5 17-09
17. Greg Hackney Gonzales, LA 10 35-11 94
Day 1: 5 17-00 Day 2: 5 18-11
18. Justin Lucas Guntersville, AL 10 35-08 93
Day 1: 5 16-02 Day 2: 5 19-06
19. Aaron Martens Leeds, AL 10 35-07 92
Day 1: 5 18-08 Day 2: 5 16-15
20. Todd Faircloth Jasper, TX 10 35-05 91
Day 1: 5 21-01 Day 2: 5 14-04
21. Keith Combs Huntington, TX 10 35-04 90
Day 1: 5 17-13 Day 2: 5 17-07
22. Bradley Roy Lancaster, KY 10 35-03 89
Day 1: 5 15-14 Day 2: 5 19-05
23. Terry Scroggins San Mateo, FL 10 35-01 88
Day 1: 5 18-00 Day 2: 5 17-01
24. Gerald Spohrer Gonzales, LA 10 34-15 87
Day 1: 5 17-13 Day 2: 5 17-02
25. Hank Cherry Jr Lincolnton, NC 10 34-12 86
Day 1: 5 16-13 Day 2: 5 17-15
26. Fletcher Shryock New Philadelphia, OH 10 34-12 85
Day 1: 5 17-04 Day 2: 5 17-08
27. Chad Pipkens Lansing, MI 10 34-11 84
Day 1: 5 18-03 Day 2: 5 16-08
28. Jason Christie Park Hill, OK 10 34-09 83
Day 1: 5 19-08 Day 2: 5 15-01
29. Gerald Swindle Guntersville, AL 10 34-08 82
Day 1: 5 17-02 Day 2: 5 17-06
30. Dustin Connell Clanton, AL 10 34-07 81
Day 1: 5 18-01 Day 2: 5 16-06
31. Drew Benton Panama City, FL 10 34-07 80
Day 1: 5 16-13 Day 2: 5 17-10
32. Edwin Evers Talala, OK 10 34-01 79
Day 1: 5 18-13 Day 2: 5 15-04
33. Paul Mueller Naugatuck, CT 10 34-01 78
Day 1: 5 18-12 Day 2: 5 15-05
34. Cliff Pace Petal, MS 10 34-00 77
Day 1: 5 16-00 Day 2: 5 18-00
35. Ish Monroe Hughson, CA 10 34-00 76
Day 1: 5 17-13 Day 2: 5 16-03
36. Clifford Pirch Payson, AZ 10 34-00 75
Day 1: 5 17-00 Day 2: 5 17-00
37. Casey Ashley Donalds, SC 10 33-14 74
Day 1: 5 14-11 Day 2: 5 19-03
38. John Crews Jr Salem, VA 10 33-10 73
Day 1: 5 16-15 Day 2: 5 16-11
39. James Niggemeyer Van, TX 10 33-09 72
Day 1: 5 17-09 Day 2: 5 16-00
40. Gary Klein Mingus, TX 10 33-05 71
Day 1: 5 14-12 Day 2: 5 18-09
41. Jamie Hartman Newport, NY 10 33-03 70
Day 1: 5 16-04 Day 2: 5 16-15
42. Shane Lineberger Lincolnton, NC 10 33-01 69
Day 1: 5 19-03 Day 2: 5 13-14
43. Paul Elias Laurel, MS 10 33-00 68
Day 1: 5 16-12 Day 2: 5 16-04
44. Bernie Schultz Gainesville, FL 10 32-15 67
Day 1: 5 14-02 Day 2: 5 18-13
45. Russ Lane Prattville, AL 10 32-15 66
Day 1: 5 18-06 Day 2: 5 14-09
45. Brock Mosley Collinsville, MS 10 32-15 66
Day 1: 5 18-06 Day 2: 5 14-09
47. Dean Rojas Lake Havasu City, AZ 10 32-08 64
Day 1: 5 17-15 Day 2: 5 14-09
48. Fred Roumbanis London, AR 10 32-06 63
Day 1: 5 16-00 Day 2: 5 16-06
49. Stetson Blaylock Benton, AR 10 32-03 62
Day 1: 5 15-14 Day 2: 5 16-05
50. Brandon Coulter Knoxville, TN 10 32-02 61
Day 1: 5 14-03 Day 2: 5 17-15
51. Chris Zaldain Laughlin, NV 10 32-00 60
Day 1: 5 17-01 Day 2: 5 14-15
52. Luke Clausen Otis Orchards, WA 10 32-00 59
Day 1: 5 16-10 Day 2: 5 15-06
53. Skeet Reese Auburn, CA 10 31-15 58
Day 1: 5 16-12 Day 2: 5 15-03
54. Greg Vinson Wetumpka, AL 10 31-10 57
Day 1: 5 13-14 Day 2: 5 17-12
55. Marty Robinson Lyman, SC 10 31-05 56
Day 1: 5 14-04 Day 2: 5 17-01
56. Tommy Biffle Wagoner, OK 10 31-05 55
Day 1: 5 14-14 Day 2: 5 16-07
57. David Williams Newton, NC 10 31-04 54
Day 1: 5 16-06 Day 2: 5 14-14
58. Brandon Card Knoxville, TN 10 31-04 53
Day 1: 5 16-05 Day 2: 5 14-15
59. Robbie Latuso Gonzales, LA 10 31-03 52
Day 1: 5 18-10 Day 2: 5 12-09
60. David Fritts Lexington, NC 10 31-03 51
Day 1: 5 17-07 Day 2: 5 13-12
61. Chad Morgenthaler Reeds Spring, MO 10 31-02 50
Day 1: 5 14-10 Day 2: 5 16-08
62. Alton Jones Jr. Lorena, TX 10 31-00 49
Day 1: 5 16-07 Day 2: 5 14-09
63. Bill Lowen Brookville, IN 10 30-08 48
Day 1: 5 16-03 Day 2: 5 14-05
64. Jesse Wiggins Cullman, AL 10 30-07 47
Day 1: 5 14-12 Day 2: 5 15-11
65. Bobby Lane Jr. Lakeland, FL 10 30-05 46
Day 1: 5 16-09 Day 2: 5 13-12
66. Jacob Powroznik North Prince George, VA 10 30-04 45
Day 1: 5 14-03 Day 2: 5 16-01
67. Randy Howell Guntersville, AL 10 30-03 44
Day 1: 5 18-09 Day 2: 5 11-10
68. Jesse Tacoronte Orlando, FL 10 30-02 43
Day 1: 5 15-04 Day 2: 5 14-14
69. Jonathon VanDam Kalamazoo, MI 10 30-01 42
Day 1: 5 13-05 Day 2: 5 16-12
70. Mike McClelland Bella Vista, AR 10 30-00 41
Day 1: 5 14-15 Day 2: 5 15-01
71. Scott Rook Little Rock, AR 10 29-14 40
Day 1: 5 14-09 Day 2: 5 15-05
72. Andy Montgomery Blacksburg, SC 10 29-13 39
Day 1: 5 15-12 Day 2: 5 14-01
73. Mark Davis Mount Ida, AR 10 29-13 38
Day 1: 5 14-07 Day 2: 5 15-06
74. Boyd Duckett Guntersville, AL 10 29-12 37
Day 1: 5 16-09 Day 2: 5 13-03
75. John Hunter Jr Shelbyville, KY 10 29-12 36
Day 1: 5 13-04 Day 2: 5 16-08
76. Mark Daniels Jr. Tuskegee, AL 10 29-08 35
Day 1: 5 12-07 Day 2: 5 17-01
77. Clent Davis Montevallo, AL 10 29-07 34
Day 1: 5 13-11 Day 2: 5 15-12
78. John Murray Spring City, TN 10 29-07 33
Day 1: 5 14-05 Day 2: 5 15-02
79. Kevin VanDam Kalamazoo, MI 10 29-06 32
Day 1: 5 12-13 Day 2: 5 16-09
80. Josh Bertrand San Tan Valley, AZ 10 29-06 31
Day 1: 5 13-15 Day 2: 5 15-07
81. Takahiro Omori Emory, TX 10 29-05 30
Day 1: 5 16-03 Day 2: 5 13-02
82. Rick Clunn Ava, MO 10 29-04 29
Day 1: 5 15-09 Day 2: 5 13-11
83. Cliff Crochet Pierre Part, LA 10 29-03 28
Day 1: 5 17-03 Day 2: 5 12-00
84. Jason Williamson Wagener, SC 10 29-03 27
Day 1: 5 16-09 Day 2: 5 12-10
85. Brett Hite Phoenix, AZ 10 29-02 26
Day 1: 5 12-06 Day 2: 5 16-12
86. Dave Lefebre Erie, PA 10 29-01 25
Day 1: 5 14-00 Day 2: 5 15-01
87. Keith Poche Pike Road, AL 10 28-13 24
Day 1: 5 11-04 Day 2: 5 17-09
88. Randall Tharp Port St. Joe, FL 10 28-11 23
Day 1: 5 16-11 Day 2: 5 12-00
89. Stephen Browning Hot Springs, AR 10 28-09 22
Day 1: 5 14-10 Day 2: 5 13-15
90. Morizo Shimizu Suita, Osaka JAPAN 10 28-05 21
Day 1: 5 14-06 Day 2: 5 13-15
91. Koby Kreiger Bokeelia, FL 10 28-03 20
Day 1: 5 13-00 Day 2: 5 15-03
92. Britt Myers Lake Wylie, SC 10 28-00 19
Day 1: 5 13-04 Day 2: 5 14-12
93. Michael Iaconelli Pitts Grove, NJ 10 27-15 18
Day 1: 5 15-06 Day 2: 5 12-09
94. Brent Chapman Lake Quivira, KS 10 27-09 17
Day 1: 5 15-05 Day 2: 5 12-04
95. Micah Frazier Newnan, GA 10 27-06 16
Day 1: 5 14-11 Day 2: 5 12-11
96. Tyler Carriere Youngsville, LA 10 27-01 15
Day 1: 5 14-10 Day 2: 5 12-07
97. Brian Snowden Reeds Spring, MO 10 26-06 14
Day 1: 5 16-11 Day 2: 5 09-11
98. Tim Horton Muscle Shoals, AL 10 26-03 13
Day 1: 5 12-07 Day 2: 5 13-12
99. Brett Preuett Monroe, LA 10 25-13 12
Day 1: 5 12-00 Day 2: 5 13-13
100. Kelly Jordon Flint, TX 10 25-13 11
Day 1: 5 12-07 Day 2: 5 13-06
101. Mark Menendez Paducah, KY 10 25-12 10
Day 1: 5 14-13 Day 2: 5 10-15
102. Skylar Hamilton Dandridge, TN 10 25-06 9
Day 1: 5 15-04 Day 2: 5 10-02
103. James Elam Tulsa, OK 10 24-13 8
Day 1: 5 12-15 Day 2: 5 11-14
104. Jared Lintner Arroyo Grande, CA 9 24-06 7
Day 1: 5 13-12 Day 2: 4 10-10
105. Shaw Grigsby Jr. Gainesville, FL 10 23-12 6
Day 1: 5 11-05 Day 2: 5 12-07
106. Cliff Prince Palatka, FL 9 23-03 5
Day 1: 4 09-01 Day 2: 5 14-02
107. David Mullins Mt Carmel, TN 10 21-10 4
Day 1: 5 13-04 Day 2: 5 08-06
108. Darrell Ocamica New Plymouth, ID 5 14-07 3
Day 1: 0 00-00 Day 2: 5 14-07
109. Chad Grigsby Maple Grove, MN 5 13-02 2
Day 1: 5 13-02 Day 2: 0 00-00
———————————————————————–
Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 107 539 1732-12
2 107 539 1687-06
———————————-
214 1078 3420-02

Todd Faircloth Takes First Day Lead At Bassmaster Elite At Lake Champlain

wpalert

-

July 28, 2017

0

Todd Faircloth Takes First Day Lead At Bassmaster Elite At Lake Champlain

Todd Faircloth of Jasper, Texas, takes the lead on the first day of the Bassmaster Elite at Lake Champlain presented by Dick Cepek Tires & Wheels out of Plattsburgh, N.Y., with 21 pounds, 1 ounce.

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

July 28, 2017

Todd Faircloth Takes First Day Lead At Bassmaster Elite At Lake Champlain

[print_link]

PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. — The eighth of nine regular-season events began today at the Bassmaster Elite at Lake Champlain presented by Dick Cepek Tires & Wheels, and Todd Faircloth of Jasper, Texas, leads after the first day of competition on the strength of a 21-pound, 1-ounce limit of bass. He is also leading in the Phoenix Boats Big Bass of the tournament with a 6-1 largemouth bass — that is a rarity in this northern New York inland sea.

Faircloth said he was surprised by what he caught — especially because his day started rather slow, then picked up in the afternoon.

“I caught my best fish in the middle of the day,” Faircloth said. “I have some good water to fish, but whether those areas will replenish, it’s hard to say. I weighed one smallmouth and four largemouth. That 6-pounder I caught was really unexpected.”

Faircloth added that he’s drop shotting for smallmouth and “fishing plastics” for largemouth.

Another Texan, Alton Jones of Lorena, is in second place after Day 1 with 20-11. Jones remarked how differently the lake is fishing compared to the last time he competed here. Its been 10 years since the last Elite event here, and “the grass has totally changed,” Jones said.

“I weighed all largemouth,” he said. “I’m fishing areas I’ve fished before, but I’m fishing different spots within those areas. I think the smallmouth are in a postspawn funk. I think you’re going to need to weigh some largemouth this week to win. But if this was August or September, you could win here with smallmouth.”

Jeff Kriet of Ardmore, Okla., is focusing on smallmouth and is currently in third place with 20-4. Kriet noted that he’s running north, where he caught an estimated 50 smallmouth today.

“I’m switching up a lot,” Kriet said. “I’m drop shotting, using an Eco-Pro Tungsten jig; I caught my biggest on a swimbait, and I’m using the new Big Bite Baits Limit Getter. I would have been happy with 15 or 16 pounds, so I’m really excited about today.”

Lake Champlain again proved to be one of the best bass fisheries in the Northeast, and 107 of the 109 anglers caught a limit today.

Yesterday’s competition day was cancelled due to weather, so the full field of 109 pros will fish tomorrow. The Top 51 will compete on Championship Sunday. Currently, the Top 51 cut weight is 16-9 — another testament to the quality of the Lake Champlain fishery.

Brandon Palaniuk, tied for 21st with 18-1, retained his lead in the Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year race. Jason Christie (fifth, 19-8) moved into second with 700 points. Jacob Wheeler (30th, 17-12) moved into third.

Anglers launch Saturday from the City Marina in downtown Plattsburgh at 6:15 a.m. ET. Weigh-in begins at 3:15 p.m. at the Plattsburgh City Beach.

The Bassmaster Elite Series Outdoors Expo will open at the beach at noon. Companies including Huk, Berkley and Power-Pole will be onsite featuring their latest products. Dick Cepek Tires & Wheels will be giving out a free set of tires. Skeeter, Yamaha, Nitro, Triton and Mercury will be offering free boat and motor demo rides. Toyota will have interactive displays such as designing your own lure and a NASCAR video game. There will also be food and beverage vendors and a watercross competition. All activities are open to the public.

The event is hosted by the Adirondack Coast Visitors Bureau and the City of Plattsburgh.

2017 Bassmaster Elite at Champlain presented by Dick Cepek Tires & Wheels 7/27-7/30
Lake Champlain, Plattsburgh NY.
(PROFESSIONAL) Standings Day 1

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

1. Todd Faircloth Jasper, TX 5 21-01 110
Day 1: 5 21-01
2. Alton Jones Lorena, TX 5 20-11 109
Day 1: 5 20-11
3. Jeff Kriet Ardmore, OK 5 20-04 108
Day 1: 5 20-04
4. Brandon Lester Fayetteville, TN 5 19-15 107
Day 1: 5 19-15
5. Jason Christie Park Hill, OK 5 19-08 106
Day 1: 5 19-08
6. Shane Lineberger Lincolnton, NC 5 19-03 105
Day 1: 5 19-03
7. Matt Lee Guntersville, AL 5 19-00 104
Day 1: 5 19-00
8. Matt Herren Ashville, AL 5 18-15 103
Day 1: 5 18-15
9. Edwin Evers Talala, OK 5 18-13 102
Day 1: 5 18-13
10. Ott DeFoe Knoxville, TN 5 18-12 101
Day 1: 5 18-12
10. Paul Mueller Naugatuck, CT 5 18-12 101
Day 1: 5 18-12
12. Robbie Latuso Gonzales, LA 5 18-10 99
Day 1: 5 18-10
13. Randy Howell Guntersville, AL 5 18-09 98
Day 1: 5 18-09
14. Adrian Avena Vineland, NJ 5 18-08 97
Day 1: 5 18-08
14. Aaron Martens Leeds, AL 5 18-08 97
Day 1: 5 18-08
16. Russ Lane Prattville, AL 5 18-06 95
Day 1: 5 18-06
16. Brock Mosley Collinsville, MS 5 18-06 95
Day 1: 5 18-06
16. David Walker Sevierville, TN 5 18-06 95
Day 1: 5 18-06
19. Brent Ehrler Redlands, CA 5 18-04 92
Day 1: 5 18-04
20. Chad Pipkens Lansing, MI 5 18-03 91
Day 1: 5 18-03
21. Dustin Connell Clanton, AL 5 18-01 90
Day 1: 5 18-01
21. Kelley Jaye Dadeville, AL 5 18-01 90
Day 1: 5 18-01
21. Brandon Palaniuk Hayden, ID 5 18-01 90
Day 1: 5 18-01
24. Chris Lane Guntersville, AL 5 18-00 87
Day 1: 5 18-00
24. Terry Scroggins San Mateo, FL 5 18-00 87
Day 1: 5 18-00
26. Dean Rojas Lake Havasu City, AZ 5 17-15 85
Day 1: 5 17-15
27. Keith Combs Huntington, TX 5 17-13 84
Day 1: 5 17-13
27. Ish Monroe Hughson, CA 5 17-13 84
Day 1: 5 17-13
27. Gerald Spohrer Gonzales, LA 5 17-13 84
Day 1: 5 17-13
30. Jacob Wheeler Harrison, TN 5 17-12 81
Day 1: 5 17-12
31. Steve Kennedy Auburn, AL 5 17-10 80
Day 1: 5 17-10
32. Seth Feider Isle, MN 5 17-09 79
Day 1: 5 17-09
32. James Niggemeyer Van, TX 5 17-09 79
Day 1: 5 17-09
34. David Fritts Lexington, NC 5 17-07 77
Day 1: 5 17-07
35. Fletcher Shryock New Philadelphia, OH 5 17-04 76
Day 1: 5 17-04
36. Cliff Crochet Pierre Part, LA 5 17-03 75
Day 1: 5 17-03
37. Gerald Swindle Guntersville, AL 5 17-02 74
Day 1: 5 17-02
38. Chris Zaldain Laughlin, NV 5 17-01 73
Day 1: 5 17-01
39. Greg Hackney Gonzales, LA 5 17-00 72
Day 1: 5 17-00
39. Clifford Pirch Payson, AZ 5 17-00 72
Day 1: 5 17-00
41. John Crews Jr Salem, VA 5 16-15 70
Day 1: 5 16-15
42. Drew Benton Panama City, FL 5 16-13 69
Day 1: 5 16-13
42. Hank Cherry Jr Lincolnton, NC 5 16-13 69
Day 1: 5 16-13
42. Jordan Lee Grant, AL 5 16-13 69
Day 1: 5 16-13
45. Paul Elias Laurel, MS 5 16-12 66
Day 1: 5 16-12
45. Skeet Reese Auburn, CA 5 16-12 66
Day 1: 5 16-12
47. Brian Snowden Reeds Spring, MO 5 16-11 64
Day 1: 5 16-11
47. Randall Tharp Port St. Joe, FL 5 16-11 64
Day 1: 5 16-11
49. Luke Clausen Otis Orchards, WA 5 16-10 62
Day 1: 5 16-10
50. Boyd Duckett Guntersville, AL 5 16-09 61
Day 1: 5 16-09
50. Bobby Lane Jr. Lakeland, FL 5 16-09 61
Day 1: 5 16-09
52. Jason Williamson Wagener, SC 5 16-09 59
Day 1: 5 16-09
53. Alton Jones Jr. Lorena, TX 5 16-07 58
Day 1: 5 16-07
54. David Williams Newton, NC 5 16-06 57
Day 1: 5 16-06
55. Brandon Card Knoxville, TN 5 16-05 56
Day 1: 5 16-05
56. Jamie Hartman Newport, NY 5 16-04 55
Day 1: 5 16-04
57. Bill Lowen Brookville, IN 5 16-03 54
Day 1: 5 16-03
57. Takahiro Omori Emory, TX 5 16-03 54
Day 1: 5 16-03
59. Justin Lucas Guntersville, AL 5 16-02 52
Day 1: 5 16-02
60. Cliff Pace Petal, MS 5 16-00 51
Day 1: 5 16-00
60. Fred Roumbanis London, AR 5 16-00 51
Day 1: 5 16-00
62. Stetson Blaylock Benton, AR 5 15-14 49
Day 1: 5 15-14
62. Bradley Roy Lancaster, KY 5 15-14 49
Day 1: 5 15-14
64. Andy Montgomery Blacksburg, SC 5 15-12 47
Day 1: 5 15-12
65. Rick Clunn Ava, MO 5 15-09 46
Day 1: 5 15-09
66. Michael Iaconelli Pitts Grove, NJ 5 15-06 45
Day 1: 5 15-06
67. Brent Chapman Lake Quivira, KS 5 15-05 44
Day 1: 5 15-05
68. Skylar Hamilton Dandridge, TN 5 15-04 43
Day 1: 5 15-04
68. Jesse Tacoronte Orlando, FL 5 15-04 43
Day 1: 5 15-04
70. Mike McClelland Bella Vista, AR 5 14-15 41
Day 1: 5 14-15
71. Tommy Biffle Wagoner, OK 5 14-14 40
Day 1: 5 14-14
72. Mark Menendez Paducah, KY 5 14-13 39
Day 1: 5 14-13
73. Gary Klein Mingus, TX 5 14-12 38
Day 1: 5 14-12
73. Jesse Wiggins Cullman, AL 5 14-12 38
Day 1: 5 14-12
75. Casey Ashley Donalds, SC 5 14-11 36
Day 1: 5 14-11
75. Micah Frazier Newnan, GA 5 14-11 36
Day 1: 5 14-11
77. Stephen Browning Hot Springs, AR 5 14-10 34
Day 1: 5 14-10
77. Tyler Carriere Youngsville, LA 5 14-10 34
Day 1: 5 14-10
77. Chad Morgenthaler Reeds Spring, MO 5 14-10 34
Day 1: 5 14-10
80. Scott Rook Little Rock, AR 5 14-09 31
Day 1: 5 14-09
81. Mark Davis Mount Ida, AR 5 14-07 30
Day 1: 5 14-07
82. Morizo Shimizu Suita, Osaka JAPAN 5 14-06 29
Day 1: 5 14-06
83. John Murray Spring City, TN 5 14-05 28
Day 1: 5 14-05
84. Marty Robinson Lyman, SC 5 14-04 27
Day 1: 5 14-04
85. Brandon Coulter Knoxville, TN 5 14-03 26
Day 1: 5 14-03
85. Jacob Powroznik North Prince George, VA 5 14-03 26
Day 1: 5 14-03
87. Bernie Schultz Gainesville, FL 5 14-02 24
Day 1: 5 14-02
88. Dave Lefebre Erie, PA 5 14-00 23
Day 1: 5 14-00
89. Josh Bertrand San Tan Valley, AZ 5 13-15 22
Day 1: 5 13-15
90. Greg Vinson Wetumpka, AL 5 13-14 21
Day 1: 5 13-14
91. Jared Lintner Arroyo Grande, CA 5 13-12 20
Day 1: 5 13-12
92. Clent Davis Montevallo, AL 5 13-11 19
Day 1: 5 13-11
93. Jonathon VanDam Kalamazoo, MI 5 13-05 18
Day 1: 5 13-05
94. John Hunter Jr Shelbyville, KY 5 13-04 17
Day 1: 5 13-04
94. David Mullins Mt Carmel, TN 5 13-04 17
Day 1: 5 13-04
94. Britt Myers Lake Wylie, SC 5 13-04 17
Day 1: 5 13-04
97. Chad Grigsby Maple Grove, MN 5 13-02 14
Day 1: 5 13-02
98. Koby Kreiger Bokeelia, FL 5 13-00 13
Day 1: 5 13-00
99. James Elam Tulsa, OK 5 12-15 12
Day 1: 5 12-15
100. Kevin VanDam Kalamazoo, MI 5 12-13 11
Day 1: 5 12-13
101. Mark Daniels Jr. Tuskegee, AL 5 12-07 10
Day 1: 5 12-07
101. Tim Horton Muscle Shoals, AL 5 12-07 10
Day 1: 5 12-07
101. Kelly Jordon Flint, TX 5 12-07 10
Day 1: 5 12-07
104. Brett Hite Phoenix, AZ 5 12-06 7
Day 1: 5 12-06
105. Brett Preuett Monroe, LA 5 12-00 6
Day 1: 5 12-00
106. Shaw Grigsby Jr. Gainesville, FL 5 11-05 5
Day 1: 5 11-05
107. Keith Poche Pike Road, AL 5 11-04 4
Day 1: 5 11-04
108. Cliff Prince Palatka, FL 4 09-01 3
Day 1: 4 09-01
109. Darrell Ocamica New Plymouth, ID 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
———————————————————————–
Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 107 539 1732-12
———————————-
107 539 1732-12

FRABILL PARTNERS WITH MILLE LACS SMALLMOUTH ALLIANCE

wpalert

-

July 28, 2017

0

FRABILL PARTNERS WITH MILLE LACS SMALLMOUTH ALLIANCE

DONATION SUPPORTS MLSA’S MISSION TO “FREE THE FIGHTER”

[print_link]

Plano, IL (July 28, 2017) — The Mille Lacs Smallmouth Alliance (MLSA) has received a significant donation from Frabill, makers of trusted fishing gear since 1938. MSLA will use the gift of 10 Frabill Weigh-Bag Systems and 10 Conservation Series Landing Nets to minimize mortality of trophy smallmouth bass on Mille Lacs. It all fits perfectly with the organization’s goal to preserve and maintain the trophy smallmouth bass in the nation’s top bass lake, as recently designated by Bassmaster magazine. These premium fish-care products will help keep trophy bass caught during tournaments safe and happy until they are released.

“Frabill has a near 80-year history of delivering trusted gear for anglers, and that includes specialized gear that helps conserve our angling resources for future generations,” says Chris Russell, Plano Synergy Marketing Manager – Fish. “The Frabill Weigh Bag System and Conservation Series Landing Net are two great examples of Frabill products that are meticulously designed and constructed to reduce stress on fish, which is something every tournament or catch-and-release recreational angler should be concerned with. Plano Synergy applauds the important work of the Mille Lacs Smallmouth Alliance, and we’re happy to help support their mission of conserving this phenomenal fishery.”

MLSA will loan the specialized weigh bag systems and conservation nets to organizations holding bass tournaments on Mille Lacs, fulfilling MLSA’s mandate to “Free the Fighter.” Improved fish transfer systems at weigh-ins and specialized net coatings reduce stress on fish caught during competition and, ultimately, reduce mortality.

“These bags are amazing,” says MLSA President, Jim DaRosa. “We’re thankful to our partners in conservation at Frabill for this generous donation. These tournament bags and Conservation Series landing nets will help us care for the smallmouth bass on Mille Lacs. Our area businesses love the tournaments, but we need to be smart about how we handle the fish.” MLSA member Vern Wagner will serve as the Alliance’s coordinator for the specialized tournament gear. Tournament hosting organizations can contact Vern at 612 756-3474 or email: [email protected].

Improved Capture and Handling

Frabill’s three-part Weigh Bag System consists of a soft, reinforced weigh bag, a removable coated inner mesh bag, and a compact portable aerator. The exterior shell of the soft weigh bag is constructed of reinforced PVC tarpaulin. The flat bottom duffel-bag-design features internal reinforcement to allow it to stand upright. Oversized, padded handles wrap around the bag to fully support its contents, even when filled with up to 11.25 gallons of water and fish. An internal zippered pocket inside the lid holds G-Juice or other weigh-in supplies. The top of the weigh bag closes securely with an oversized zipper.

Frabill’s large 20”x23” Conservation Series landing nets feature 3/8” knotless micro mesh netting that reduces damage to a bass’s slime coating, while a 16” flat bottom fully supports the weight of the fish.

“We’re really excited to be able to offer this system to tournament organizers on Mille Lacs,” continues DaRosa. “Interested organizations should contact us at info@millelacssmallmouthalliance.com.”

ABOUT THE MLSA

The Mille Lacs Smallmouth Alliance is a 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit organization with membership consisting of sport anglers of all skill levels, Mille Lacs businesses, fishing guides, fishing clubs, tournament organizations and those who enjoy being in the out-of-doors. The Alliance is dedicated to rebuilding, preserving and maintaining Mille Lacs as a world-class trophy Smallmouth Bass fishery. While the organization is not opposed to selective harvest plans that would keep the trophy bass population of Mille Lacs healthy, their “Free the Fighter” signs are placed around the lake in local businesses and sport shops to educate the angling public on the benefits of Catch and Release. MLSA believes a healthy trophy Smallmouth Bass fishery contributes to the economic vitality of the Mille Lacs Lake area through tourism and overall healthy property values and a robust community. Plus, taking care of a precious natural resource is the right thing to do. Learn more at www.milleleacssmallmouthalliance.com.

#Frabill

Xtensor Keeps Veteran Bass Pro on Water

wpalert

-

July 27, 2017

0

Xtensor Keeps Veteran Bass Pro on Water

[print_link]

Clinically FIT’s Anglers Elbow Performance Therapy System helps Bass Pro Mark Rose forgo surgery and finish out 2017’s season

New York, New York (July 27, 2017) – With 19 years of professional tournament bass fishing under his belt, Mark Rose has become a renowned veteran of the FLW Tour. Within this time, he’s amassed 47 top-ten finishes and 8 wins out of 244 tournaments, with career earnings of $2,327,294. Seems nothing can stand in the way of the West Memphis, Arkansas, resident and his status as one of the most proficient bass anglers on the water.

Well, almost nothing.

Whoever says fishing isn’t a physically-demanding sport doesn’t understand the toll the sun, wind and waves can take on one’s body; let alone how certain repetitive motions play havoc on joints, muscles, tendons and the nervous system. And it was nearly two decades of gripping the handles of the very fishing rods that helped Rose create a dream career that nearly took him out of competition this year.

The culprit? A severe case of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Clinically FIT’s Xtensor reinforces the muscles and tendons as you open your hand, rather than grasping. It is part of the Anglers Elbow Performance Therapy System.

“If you’ve got healthy hands and wrists then you’re good to go when it comes to tournament fishing,” says Rose. “But if your hands and wrists go south, it can be detrimental.

“Carpal tunnel is very painful. So much so I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to fish the 2017 season because of the agony, let alone going through surgery and recovery.”

Following leads from his peers, however, Rose was recommended to speak with Scott Kupferman, CEO of Clinically Fit for advice.

Kupferman, 52, has a career in health and wellness spanning over 30 years, including an 18-year clinical exercise practice in private homes in New York City for people with wide ranging health and performance issues. He created the Anglers Elbow Performance Therapy System – the system anglers are turning to because of how quickly it is healing dreaded angler’s elbow pain (aka: tennis elbow); a condition extremely common amongst anglers.

Plano and Seaguar Pro Mark Rose is the first angler to win back-to-back FLW Tour events.

The system features one of Kupferman’s many creations – The Xtensor reverse-flexing hand strengthener. The Xtensor is a device that strengthens the muscles and tendons as you flex your hand open instead of the typical squeezing type of hand strengthener.

“Think of it this way: Squeezing your hands during all daily activities is like weight lifting to the muscles and tendons that go through the carpal canal in your wrist,” says Kupferman. “The muscles that squeeze and grip thicken, compressing the median nerve and cutting off blood flow to the hand as it travels through the canal, which creates the pain, numbness and tingling leading to carpal tunnel.

“By stretching and lengthening the tendons in the carpal canal while simultaneously strengthening the muscles that open the hands reduces tendon thickness, improves blood flow and relieves pressure on the nerves, which makes the pain subside.”

So what’s the regimen Kupferman has Rose doing while he’s on the road?

First there’s heat and cold therapy to reduce inflammation, which is crucial to the healing process.

“Heat, cold, heat, cold as much as possible,” Kupferman asserts. “And then, with the Xtensor on, Mark is to flex his hand open and hold it open as long as comfortable (5 to 30 seconds) while under tension. This creates a passive stretch for the muscles in the palms and tendons in the carpal canal. Mark is to then exercise with his hands in different positions to dynamically rebalance the strength and flexibility in the hand and wrist.”

Mark Rose believes in faith, family and fishing…and a little gadget called the Xtensor.

The Xtensor reverse-flex hand, wrist and elbow strengthener, which has tension specific to each finger, is easy to use. It fits either hand so you only have to buy one. And Kupferman insisted it be made in the USA.

Just slide it on over your hand, slip your fingers into the appropriate finger bands and then open, hold and slowly close your hand. The reverse-flex concept created by Kupferman is the opposite of gripping and clenching – this strengthens and stretches the hand muscles and tendons in all the right places.

“I wish had discovered this years ago, then I wouldn’t be in the situation I am now,” say Rose. “Tournament anglers just don’t have the energy to work out after being on the water all day; but the Xtensor is something I have by the bed and use while I’m relaxing and reading the bible. That’s the beauty of it. And it’s comfortable to wear.

“And you don’t have to have anything wrong with your hand, wrist or elbow to use it [it’s a performance therapy product]. Anglers should use the Xtensor before they feel pain so you don’t have issues later on. Earlier this year I knew I was headed for surgery; However, I truly believe that with the heat and cold therapy, stretching and strengthening with the Xtensor, I will be able to manage my problem enough to not have to go through with it.”

Once his fishing season concludes, Rose says resting his hand and wrist for at least a week while continuing Kupferman’s advice using, heat and cold therapies and stretching routine should totally nip his carpel tunnel issues in the bud. In the meantime, he’ll continue the keeping his Xtensor at his bedside.

Fishing is more physically demanding than most people realize, and one needs to get into shape before hitting the water hard if they want to keep free from injuries. Besides exercising and proper nutrition as a whole, little things like using the Xtensor by Clinically FIT to keep carpel tunnel syndrome and angler’s elbow pain at bay will keep you on the water.

After all, fishing shouldn’t hurt.

#anglerselbow

First Round Of Bassmaster Elite at Lake Champlain Canceled Due To Rough Water

wpalert

-

July 27, 2017

0

July 27, 2017

First Round Of Bassmaster Elite at Lake Champlain Canceled Due To Rough Water

[print_link]

PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. — The first day of the much-anticipated Bassmaster Elite at Lake Champlain presented by Dick Cepek Tires & Wheels has been canceled because of rough-water conditions.

B.A.S.S. Tournament Director Trip Weldon made the call shortly after returning from a test drive to the edge of Cumberland Bay on Lake Champlain, where the first-round takeoff was to have taken place.

A sustained south wind drove waves as high as 4 feet, he estimated.

In a statement to anglers and others, he said, “Day 1 is canceled due to rough seas running north and south. I took a ride out into the lake, and we made a decision it is not safe to go today.”

While weather forecasts called for moderate winds today, gusts were driving waves dangerously high. Elite angler Hank Cherry lobbied Weldon to cancel fishing for the day. Others who are staying in lakeside accommodations, as Cherry is, supported the decision.

Weldon noted that Elite Series rules call for the full field of 109 anglers to compete on Friday and Saturday, and the final round will include the Top 51 competitors on Sunday.

The Elite at Lake Champlain is the eighth of nine regular-season tournaments in the Elite Series. At stake is $100,000 for the winner and valuable Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year points.

Takeoff Friday, weather permitting, will be at the Plattsburgh City Marina at 6:15 a.m. ET.

The event is hosted by the Adirondack Coast Visitors Bureau and the City of Plattsburgh.

Bass Anglers Should Find Typically Tough Summertime Fishing In The Bassmaster Open On The James River

wpalert

-

July 26, 2017

0

Bass Anglers Should Find Typically Tough Summertime Fishing In The Bassmaster Open On The James River

More than 300 pro and co-anglers will be competing on the James River during the second Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Northern Open held out of Richmond, Va., Aug. 3-5.

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

July 26, 2017

Bass Anglers Should Find Typically Tough Summertime Fishing In The Bassmaster Open On The James River

[print_link]

RICHMOND, Va. — Ed Loughran doesn’t necessarily consider himself a “cerebral” angler. He says he’s more of a “grinder” whose work ethic has helped him collect a check in 13 of the 25 B.A.S.S. tournaments he’s fished dating back to 1993.

Still, Loughran is sharp enough to know he needs a really good showing at the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Northern Open No. 2 if he wants to fulfill his dream to join the Bassmaster Elite Series one day.

The second Northern Open of the 2017 season is scheduled for Aug. 3-5 on the James River in Virginia. And if Loughran’s estimation is correct, he’ll need to make the cut to 12 anglers to keep hope alive that he can fish with the Elites in 2018.

“I’ve got a formula that’s pretty much held true,” he said. “If you add up where you finish in the three Open events, whether it’s in the northern, southern or central, the number can’t be bigger than 75 or you have almost no chance (of making the Elites).”

Loughran finished 55th in the first Northern Open of the season on Oneida Lake in late June, so he has his work cut out for him.

Loughran lives in Mechanicsville, Va., approximately 30 minutes from Osborn Park in Henrico, Va., where the nearly 160 professional anglers competing in the Northern Open No. 2 will launch, and he has a long history on the river dating back to when he was a student some 25 years ago at the University of Richmond.

He said the Open tournament should produce results similar to others held on the James in recent years. He expects bags to be on the light side, with fish caught around visible structure in less than 6 feet of water.

“It’s summer fishing,” he said. “That means it probably will be difficult. The water temperature has been in the low 90s and the water probably will be high. Plus, there’s going to be a lot of pressure on the fish. I think the cut (for the Top 12) could be around 23 or 24 pounds, maybe a pound or two higher. But I think you’re going to see a lot of 7-, 8- and 9-pound limits. The guy who catches a big fish or two in that limit is going to be in it on the final day.”

Loughran pointed to a recent one-day tournament on the James when the winning angler caught 16 pounds, but one of the bass was an 8-pounder. Another angler caught 13 pounds, but also had an 8-pound kicker.

“It probably won’t be that drastic, but someone who catches a 5 1/2 and a 3 1/2 and rounds out a limit with some 2-pounders is going to be tough to beat,” he said.

Loughran expects many anglers to head to the Chickahominy River, a tributary of the James, as they have in recent tournaments here. Elite Series pro Charlie Hartley won last year’s Northern Open with a strong showing — a three-day total of 41 pounds, 13 ounces — in the Chickahominy.

Takeoff will begin at 6 a.m. ET from the Osborne Park and Boat Landing, 9530 Osborne Turnpike in Henrico, Va. Weigh-in the first two days will begin at 2 p.m. back at the park.

The final weigh-in will begin at 3:15 p.m. at the nearby Bass Pro Shops, 11550 Lakeridge Parkway in Ashland, Va.

The winning pro will earn cash and a Skeeter/Yamaha boat and motor package valued at approximately $50,000, as well as a shot in the 2018 GEICO Bassmaster Classic presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods (provided he fishes in each of the three Northern Opens this year.)

More than 160 co-anglers are scheduled to compete in the tournament, as well. The co-angler winner will receive a Triton/Mercury boat and motor package.

The event is hosted by Visit Richmond.

What Are We Missing? by Bruce Callis – July 26,2017

wpalert

-

July 26, 2017

0

What Are We Missing?

The Huk Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence presented by Go RVing is in the books and it marked a milestone for the winner, Kevin VanDam. It was here on the St. Lawrence that Kevin fished his 1st B.A.S.S.tournament in 1987, his 300th tournament fished with B.A.S.S., and his 24th victory. Quite an accomplishment for anyone. It also was the largest 4 day bag limit ever caught by an Elite angler weighing in just smallmouth bass.
Day one had Kevin leading the pack with an impressive bag of 24 lbs 5 oz, but only leading by 15 ounces over Bill Lowen, who had an impressive 23 lb 6 oz bag himself.Rounding out the top 5 were Seth Feider with 22 lb 11 oz, Brent Ehrler with 22 lb 9 oz, and Marty Robinson with 22 lb 4 oz. Casey Ashley, Bernie Schultz, James Elam, Dave Lefebre, and Jesse Wiggins rounded out the top 10 for day one.
Day 2 of the event saw a big shake up as Brandon Palaniuk made a hard charge with a huge 25 lb 15 oz bag, jumping him up from 72nd place to 9th for the day. Kevin held on to the lead still, increasing it to 1 pound 1 ounce over 2nd place Casey Ashley. Jonathon VanDam moved up to 3rd place with Brandon Coulter and Brock Mosley rounding out the top 5 anglers. Justin Lucas, Brent Ehrler, Bernie Schultz, Brandon Palaniuk, and Dustin Connell completed the top 10 anglers on day two.
With the field cut down to the top 50 anglers for day 3, Kevin once again held on to the lead, increasing it to 2 pounds 9 ounces over 2nd place Jonathon VanDam. Brandon Palaniuk moved up into 3rd place followed by Brent Ehrler in 4th and Brock Mosley in 5th place. Rounding out the top 12 were: Casey Ashley, Gerald Swindle, Bernie Schultz, Brandon Coulter, James Elam, Jamie Hartman, and Alton Jones. The stage was set for Championship Sunday.
Championship Sunday saw Kevin go out and close the door on his competition. With and impressive bag limit of 23 lb 12 oz, Kevin made it virtually impossible for everyone. He increased his 4 day total to 90 lb 3 oz of smallmouth bass, something that had never been done. He actually increased his lead to 8 pounds over his nearest competitor, 2nd place finisher Brock Mosley. Brandon Palaniuk held on to 3rd, just 3 ounces out of second. Jonathon VanDam dropped to 4th place and Brent Ehrler finished his day in 5th place.
While we all know that the Elite’s are made up of the best tournament anglers, it was who made the best showing and who didn’t that really shocked people, especially the fantasy fishing players. Granted, some did extremely well with their picks, but it was the top names that didn’t have a great tournament that hurt so many.Big names like Ott DeFoe (99), Shaw Grisby (96), Dean Rojas (95), Brent Chapman (86), Jordan Lee (74), Mike McClelland (73), and Randy Howell (64), who really struggled on the water, that hurt.
We all know that not everything works out the way we plan it. We know that as hard as we prepare, sometimes the bass just throw us a curveball that we didn’t see coming for the 2nd strike and we struggle to stay alive. We just can’t find the bigger biting bass no matter what we try. We can find them pre-fishing for a tournament, but once the tournament starts, they just seem to close their mouths to everything we throw. Just what changes that we miss? Why do we struggle? Is it our ego, our pride that hinders us? Are we so wrapped up in what we know that we fail to see what is given? Are we afraid? Afraid to throw away a game plan because it is supposed to work? Is it we are afraid to hit away when everything says to bunt? What are we missing? What are we waiting for? Just do it! Aim for the fences or bunt down the 3rd base line, which do we choose?

Seth Brogan/ Brook Thomas Win His & Hers Region 2 Bass Nation of VA

wpalert

-

July 26, 2017

0

basscastPRO

basscastPRO

The Bass CastYour Tourney News Headquarters

The Bass CastPRO