Search
Subscribe
Thursday, October 10, 2024
Home Blog Page 107

University of North Alabama brothers lead Bassmaster College Series event at Lake Murray

Brian Carter
-
0
University of North Alabama brothers lead Bassmaster College Series event at Lake Murray

Jake Brown and Walker Brown of the University of North Alabama are leading after Day 1 of the Strike King Bassmaster College Series at Lake Murray presented by Bass Pro Shops with 23 pounds, 14 ounces. 

Photo by Tyler Bridges/B.A.S.S.

January 26, 2024

University of North Alabama brothers lead Bassmaster College Series event at Lake Murray

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Jake and Walker Brown will be the first to tell you that using forward-facing sonar is not exactly their specialty just yet.

But the brothers from the University of North Alabama used it to perfection on Day 1 of the Strike King Bassmaster College Series at Lake Murray presented by Bass Pro Shops, catching 23 pounds, 14 ounces to lead the field of 244 teams.

They anchored their bag with a 7-14 lunker largemouth that leads the Big Bass of the Day standings. 

Hailing from Pickwick Lake, Jake and Walker struggled throughout the majority of their practice and really had no idea what to expect when they launched from Dreher Island State Park.

“After they called our number, we fist-bumped and agreed things can only go up from here,” Jake said. “We went out there and kind of stumbled around and found ourselves five solid bass and maybe some stuff for tomorrow.”

The duo ran up the lake into dirtier water and targeted around 30 to 40 different ditches, revisiting several of those spots again later in the day. They caught bass as shallow as 4 feet and as deep as 30 with a blade bait. With their Garmin LiveScope, Jake believes they saw at least 300 bass, but they could only get a few to commit.

“It is definitely a mental game,” he said.

The morning started with two solid keepers, which settled them down and kept them moving in the right direction.

“It took us pretty much all day to fill our limit,” Walker said. “We had three at about 1 o’clock and made a couple of adjustments toward the end of the day to catch our last two.”

Their last bass of the day was their biggest one, and for a minute both anglers believed they had hooked one of the striped bass that Lake Murray is known for.

“I was reading my graph and saw several of them sitting there,” Walker said. “The first cast to them they all followed it up, and one of them finally got it. He immediately started pulling drag.”

Jake continued, “I’m sitting there with the net and he’s horsing it in and I was like, ‘I thought I saw a little green when it flashed.’ It came up and showed itself and we thought it was a 4- or 5-pounder. When we got it in the net, we freaked out for a little bit.”

Once they boated the lunker, the Browns began looking for new water to fish on Saturday and did not make another cast.

The anglers enjoyed cloudy, warm and calm conditions on Day 1. Day 2, however, is expected to be a soggy one, as showers and potential thunderstorms will move through the area.

The leaders aren’t sure what the potential system will do to their bite, but they feel like they’ve seen plenty of bass to have a shot at the win.

“We are going to hit as many spots as possible and try to be efficient,” Walker said. “We will probably have to find some new water tomorrow. That’s the fun in it. You never know what will happen in that new water.”

The University of Montevallo duo of Peyton Harris and Dalton Head are second with 23-2, followed by Purdue University’s Casey Cornelius and Zion Dunaway in third with 22-0. Elliot Wielgopolski and Aaron Jagdfeld from Adrian College are fourth with 21-8, and Bryce DiMauro and Tripp Berlinsky from Bryan College round out the Top 5 with 21-0.

The full field of teams will launch from Dreher Island State Park beginning at 7:10 a.m. ET Saturday and return for weigh-in at 3:10 p.m. The top 10% of the field will punch their ticket to the Strike King Bassmaster College National Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops, details of which will be announced at a later date.

This week’s event is being hosted by Capital City Lake Murray County.

2024 Strike King Bassmaster College Series at Lake Murray presented by Bass Pro Shops 1/26-1/27
Lake Murray, Columbia  SC.
(BOATER) Standings Day 1

    Angler                                       Club/School                       Pts

1.  Jake Brown – Walker Brown                    University of North Alabama         250
  Day 1: 5   23-14   Total:   5  23-14
2.  Peyton Harris – Dalton Head                  University of Montevallo            249
  Day 1: 5   23-02   Total:   5  23-02
3.  Casey Cornelius – Zion Dunaway               Purdue University                   248
  Day 1: 5   22-00   Total:   5  22-00
4.  Elliot Wielgopolski – Aaron Jagdfeld         Adrian College                      247
  Day 1: 5   21-08   Total:   5  21-08
5.  Bryce Dimauro – Tripp Berlinsky              Bryan College                       246
  Day 1: 5   21-00   Total:   5  21-00
6.  Merrick Diaz – Cade Hayford                  Campbellsville University           245
  Day 1: 5   20-10   Total:   5  20-10
7.  James Willoughby – Phillip Herring           University of Montevallo            244
  Day 1: 5   19-13   Total:   5  19-13
8.  Logan Plueger – Charlie Wright               University of Montevallo            243
  Day 1: 5   19-05   Total:   5  19-05
8.  Kyle Smith – Aaron Mills                     Kentucky Christian University       243
  Day 1: 5   19-05   Total:   5  19-05
10. Jerry Brumbaugh Jr. – Brady Pinwar           Adrian College                      241
  Day 1: 5   19-04   Total:   5  19-04
10. Banks Shaw – Nathan Reynolds                 University of North Alabama         241
  Day 1: 5   19-04   Total:   5  19-04
12. Peyton Sorrow – Garrett Ring                 University of Montevallo            239
  Day 1: 5   19-03   Total:   5  19-03
13. Billy Erdakos – Davis Klimczak               Southwestern Michigan College       238
  Day 1: 5   18-15   Total:   5  18-15
13. Riley Hendricks – Jared Hubbard              Lander University                   238
  Day 1: 5   18-15   Total:   5  18-15
13. Caleb Hudson – Tanner Hadden                 University of South Carolina – U    238
  Day 1: 5   18-15   Total:   5  18-15
16. Nick Staub – Sam Schmitz                     University of North Alabama         235
  Day 1: 5   18-14   Total:   5  18-14
16. Lane Stephens – Ethan Fields                 McKendree University                235
  Day 1: 5   18-14   Total:   5  18-14
18. Tyler Finley – Christopher Kistler           University of North Alabama         233
  Day 1: 5   18-13   Total:   5  18-13
19. Blake Milligan – Carson Maddux               Auburn University                   232
  Day 1: 5   18-07   Total:   5  18-07
20. Carter Nutt – Dylan Nutt                     University of North Alabama         231
  Day 1: 5   18-05   Total:   5  18-05
21. Quade Lobo – Nick Owens                      Adrian College                      230
  Day 1: 5   18-04   Total:   5  18-04
22. Cole Moulton – Kaleb Brown                   Lander University                   229
  Day 1: 5   17-15   Total:   5  17-15
23. Dylan Akins – Chase Carey                    Emmanuel College                    228
  Day 1: 5   17-13   Total:   5  17-13
23. Harmon Marien – Maxwell Trotter              McKendree University                228
  Day 1: 5   17-13   Total:   5  17-13
25. Peyton Dunn – Michael Avery                  Emmanuel College                    226
  Day 1: 5   17-11   Total:   5  17-11
26. Dylan Levin – Dalton DeFelice                Southwestern Michigan College       225
  Day 1: 5   17-10   Total:   5  17-10
26. Jake Peck – Carty Shoen                      Auburn University                   225
  Day 1: 5   17-10   Total:   5  17-10
28. Easton Fothergill – Nick Dumke               University of Montevallo            223
  Day 1: 5   17-08   Total:   5  17-08
29. Mitch Johnson – Jonathan Fitch               Kentucky Christian University       222
  Day 1: 5   17-04   Total:   5  17-04
30. Hayden Marbut –                              Auburn University                   221
  Day 1: 5   17-02   Total:   5  17-02
30. Lake Norsworthy – Calup Williams             Blue Mountain Christian Universi    221
  Day 1: 5   17-02   Total:   5  17-02
30. Brooks Parker – Hudson Choquette             University of Montevallo            221
  Day 1: 5   17-02   Total:   5  17-02
33. Evan Sutton – Grant Olsen                    McKendree University                218
  Day 1: 5   17-01   Total:   5  17-01
34. Max Heaton – Brooks Anderson                 Emmanuel College                    217
  Day 1: 5   17-00   Total:   5  17-00
35. Adrian Urso – Corbin Templon                 Murray State University             216
  Day 1: 5   16-15   Total:   5  16-15
36. Hunter Sandschafer – Blake Beckmann          Wabash Valley College               215
  Day 1: 5   16-14   Total:   5  16-14
37. Brady Metzger – Mason Bohland                Purdue University                   214
  Day 1: 5   16-07   Total:   5  16-07
38. Will Hart – Logan Fisher                     Emmanuel College                    213
  Day 1: 5   16-06   Total:   5  16-06
39. Luke Davis – Chance Schwartz                 University of Montevallo            212
  Day 1: 5   16-05   Total:   5  16-05
40. Nick Seitz – Paxton Giem                     Adrian College                      211
  Day 1: 5   16-02   Total:   5  16-02
41. Will Gordon – Grant Meisenhelter             Murray State University             210
  Day 1: 5   16-00   Total:   5  16-00
41. Hayden Pirman – Luke Chaddock                West Virginia University            210
  Day 1: 5   16-00   Total:   5  16-00
43. Hank Sturm – Matt Amosby                     Adrian College                      208
  Day 1: 5   15-10   Total:   5  15-10
44. Brock Blazier – Colby Joseph                 Campbellsville University           207
  Day 1: 5   15-07   Total:   5  15-07
44. Hunter Petrovic – Kaiya Ziga                 Southwestern Michigan College       207
  Day 1: 5   15-07   Total:   5  15-07
46. Levi Seagraves – Scooter Ligon Jr            Emmanuel College                    205
  Day 1: 5   15-06   Total:   5  15-06
47. Bryson Dotson – William Travis               Bryan College                       204
  Day 1: 5   15-03   Total:   5  15-03
48. Lucas Washburn – Braylon Eggerding           Adrian College                      203
  Day 1: 5   15-01   Total:   5  15-01
49. Carson Calvert – Austin Thomas               University of North Alabama         202
  Day 1: 5   14-13   Total:   5  14-13
50. Brenton Godwin – Hunter Odom                 University of Montevallo            201
  Day 1: 5   14-12   Total:   5  14-12
50. Sam Moll – Will Burch                        Murray State University             201
  Day 1: 5   14-12   Total:   5  14-12
52. Mitchell Dean – Zachary Nolan                Georgia College                     199
  Day 1: 5   14-11   Total:   5  14-11
53. Chase Milholen – Koltyn Harbin               Bethel University                   198
  Day 1: 5   14-08   Total:   5  14-08
54. Harrison Terry – Zachary Bowen               Bethel University                   197
  Day 1: 5   14-06   Total:   5  14-06
55. Turner Hart – Summer Dees                    Bryan College                       196
  Day 1: 5   14-05   Total:   5  14-05
56. Dylan Fogarty – Hunter Fillmore              Bethel University                   195
  Day 1: 5   14-03   Total:   5  14-03
57. Cameron Yates – Harrison McCall              Lander University                   194
  Day 1: 5   14-01   Total:   5  14-01
58. Chris Baker – Elijah Kelley                  Kentucky Christian University       193
  Day 1: 5   13-15   Total:   5  13-15
58. Aiden Larson – Clayton Greer                 Georgia College                     193
  Day 1: 5   13-15   Total:   5  13-15
60. Owen Januszewski – Mitch Straffon            Adrian College                      191
  Day 1: 5   13-14   Total:   5  13-14
60. Peyton Rose – Brogan Gregg                   Wabash Valley College               191
  Day 1: 5   13-14   Total:   5  13-14
60. Kobe Thompson – Cole Carr                    Adrian College                      191
  Day 1: 5   13-14   Total:   5  13-14
63. Andrew Howell – Jordan Pennington            University of Montevallo            188
  Day 1: 5   13-11   Total:   5  13-11
63. Owen Wheeler – Caleb Neu                     Bethel University                   188
  Day 1: 5   13-11   Total:   5  13-11
65. Evan Eckstrom – Ben Williams                 University of South Carolina        186
  Day 1: 5   13-10   Total:   5  13-10
66. Tyler Campbell – Parker Guy                  Emmanuel College                    185
  Day 1: 5   13-07   Total:   5  13-07
67. Bryson Holderness – Isaac Greene             University of South Carolina – U    184
  Day 1: 4   13-06   Total:   4  13-06
68. Sam Harvey – Jordan Brewer                   Auburn University                   183
  Day 1: 5   13-04   Total:   5  13-04
68. Anderson Jones –                             Lander University                   183
  Day 1: 5   13-04   Total:   5  13-04
70. Kyle Hopping – Colsyn Head                   McKendree University                181
  Day 1: 5   13-03   Total:   5  13-03
71. Caden Pearson – Nathan Kallstrand            Wabash Valley College               180
  Day 1: 4   13-01   Total:   4  13-01
72. Jack Mcillwain – Jake Krauth                 University of North Alabama         179
  Day 1: 5   13-00   Total:   5  13-00
73. Cole Hadlock – Braiden Koerber               Murray State University             178
  Day 1: 4   12-14   Total:   4  12-14
74. Hunter Shelton – Colten Drawdy               Bethel University                   177
  Day 1: 5   12-13   Total:   5  12-13
75. Briggs Alavezos – Solomon Glenn              University of Montevallo            176
  Day 1: 5   12-11   Total:   5  12-11
76. Brody Robison – Colton White                 University of Montevallo            175
  Day 1: 4   12-09   Total:   4  12-09
77. Ethan Vue – Christian Vue                    UNC – Charlotte                     174
  Day 1: 4   12-07   Total:   4  12-07
78. Tyler Altizer – Landon Lawson                King University                     173
  Day 1: 4   12-03   Total:   4  12-03
79. Jonathon Garbacz – Owen Moss                 University of North Georgia         172
  Day 1: 5   12-01   Total:   5  12-01
80. Colby Carrier – Justin Frey                  Bethel University                   171
  Day 1: 5   11-15   Total:   5  11-15
81. Hunter Palmer – Eli Stevenson                Bryan College                       170
  Day 1: 5   11-13   Total:   5  11-13
82. Cole Taylor – Clay Taylor                    Lander University                   169
  Day 1: 5   11-10   Total:   5  11-10
83. Henry Vincent – Tommy Parker                 Adrian College                      168
  Day 1: 5   11-09   Total:   5  11-09
84. Andrew Blanton – Garrett Smith               Lander University                   167
  Day 1: 4   11-09   Total:   4  11-09
85. Carson Winn – Preston Kolisek                University of North Alabama         166
  Day 1: 3   11-09   Total:   3  11-09
86. Ben Brockwell – Will Rooker                  Kentucky Christian University       165
  Day 1: 4   11-08   Total:   4  11-08
87. Ryan Daugherty – Brantley Barrentine         Campbellsville University           164
  Day 1: 3   11-08   Total:   3  11-08
88. Kai Barnett – Parker Welch                   McKendree University                163
  Day 1: 5   11-07   Total:   5  11-07
88. Wyatt Pearman – Ridge Rutledge               Campbellsville University           163
  Day 1: 5   11-07   Total:   5  11-07
90. Brandon Berry – Hunter Bright                University of Montevallo            161
  Day 1: 4   11-02   Total:   4  11-02
91. Carson Aarup – Matt Peine                    UNC – Charlotte                     160
  Day 1: 5   11-00   Total:   5  11-00
92. Colton Odom – Reagan Mills                   Auburn University                   159
  Day 1: 5   10-15   Total:   5  10-15
93. Dalton Phelps – Gannon Stork                 Wabash Valley College               158
  Day 1: 5   10-13   Total:   5  10-13
94. Connor Westerman – Michael Mcnulty           West Virginia University            157
  Day 1: 5   10-12   Total:   5  10-12
95. Nick Shoffner – Drake Page                   UNC – Charlotte                     156
  Day 1: 3   10-09   Total:   3  10-09
96. Nick Redlin – Ben Redlin                     University of Wisconsin – Platte    155
  Day 1: 4   10-08   Total:   4  10-08
97. Zane Roberts – Levi Harris                   University of North Alabama         154
  Day 1: 4   10-06   Total:   4  10-06
98. Jackson Holbert – Joshua Hayes               University of North Alabama         153
  Day 1: 5   10-04   Total:   5  10-04
99. Cole Hunter – Kaleb Butts                    University of South Carolina – U    152
  Day 1: 5   10-03   Total:   5  10-03
100. Collin Barnett – Sander Ludeman              Minnesota State University – Man    151
  Day 1: 3   10-01   Total:   3  10-01
101. Dylan Thomson – Trey Marco                   King University                     150
  Day 1: 5   09-15   Total:   5  09-15
102. Archer Smith – Hunter Holguin                Murray State University             149
  Day 1: 3   09-12   Total:   3  09-12
103. Wes Newman Jr. – Holden Zinda                Liberty University                  148
  Day 1: 3   09-10   Total:   3  09-10
104. Zach Pocos – Tucker Siminak                  McKendree University                147
  Day 1: 4   09-09   Total:   4  09-09
105. Thomas Smith – MJ Lutz                       University of South Carolina – U    146
  Day 1: 3   09-09   Total:   3  09-09
106. Matthew Welcher –                            Auburn University                   145
  Day 1: 4   09-07   Total:   4  09-07
107. Braden Thompson – Mason Gross                Wabash Valley College               144
  Day 1: 2   09-07   Total:   2  09-07
108. Chase Loftus –                               University of Iowa                  143
  Day 1: 4   09-05   Total:   4  09-05
109. Reece Keeney – Blayner  Leeman               Kentucky Christian University       142
  Day 1: 4   09-04   Total:   4  09-04
110. Jacob Butts – Mark Kershaw-Klara             University of South Carolina – U    141
  Day 1: 4   09-02   Total:   4  09-02
111. Jake Buzin – Finn Maher                      University of South Carolina        140
  Day 1: 3   09-01   Total:   3  09-01
112. Nick Pemberton – Will Holloway               University of Montevallo            139
  Day 1: 4   09-00   Total:   4  09-00
113. Tomas Matual – Colton Hill                   McKendree University                138
  Day 1: 4   08-12   Total:   4  08-12
114. Tanner Barclay – Lloyd Laconsay              Auburn University                   137
  Day 1: 3   08-10   Total:   3  08-10
114. Joe Lutz – Jake Monti                        UNC – Charlotte                     137
  Day 1: 3   08-10   Total:   3  08-10
116. Andrew Oswalt – Evan Mabrey                  University of Montevallo            135
  Day 1: 3   08-08   Total:   3  08-08
117. Drew Bradstreet –                            Florida Gateway College             134
  Day 1: 4   08-07   Total:   4  08-07
118. Cameron Dials – Brantley Anders              Kentucky Christian University       133
  Day 1: 3   08-07   Total:   3  08-07
118. Tim Richardson Jr – Gerard Kelly             Newberry College                    133
  Day 1: 3   08-07   Total:   3  08-07
120. Jackson Kulijof – Aiden Clark                Murray State University             131
  Day 1: 3   08-03   Total:   3  08-03
121. William Vickery – Hunter Starling            Georgia Southern University         130
  Day 1: 5   08-02   Total:   5  08-02
122. Butler Cochran – Bryce Evans                 University of South Carolina        129
  Day 1: 4   08-02   Total:   4  08-02
123. Jack Hay – Eli Jaime                         Southwestern Michigan College       128
  Day 1: 3   08-01   Total:   3  08-01
123. Hayden O’Barr – Cooper Gilroy                University of Alabama               128
  Day 1: 3   08-01   Total:   3  08-01
125. Spencer Knight – Colton Cybulski             Ohio State University               126
  Day 1: 2   08-00   Total:   2  08-00
126. TJ McKenzie – Will Wester                    Emmanuel College                    125
  Day 1: 3   07-11   Total:   3  07-11
127. Dawson Burton – Ethan Burnette               Kentucky Christian University       124
  Day 1: 3   07-09   Total:   3  07-09
128. Kyler Murray – Chase Rogers                  University of South Carolina – U    123
  Day 1: 2   07-04   Total:   2  07-04
129. Easton Lindus – Seth Jenkins                 Emmanuel College                    122
  Day 1: 2   07-03   Total:   2  07-03
130. Camden Lewis – TJ Edwards Jr                 Blue Mountain Christian Universi    121
  Day 1: 3   07-02   Total:   3  07-02
130. Joseph Woods – Anthony Cicero IV             Bethel University                   121
  Day 1: 3   07-02   Total:   3  07-02
132. Hunter Barrow – Caleb Dugger                 King University                     119
  Day 1: 2   06-15   Total:   2  06-15
133. Carter Doren – Brett Hill                    Campbellsville University           118
  Day 1: 2   06-14   Total:   2  06-14
134. Tyler Leachman – Mark Bixler                 Murray State University             117
  Day 1: 2   06-12   Total:   2  06-12
135. Brennan Berglund – Neal Braddy               University of Montevallo            116
  Day 1: 3   06-11   Total:   3  06-11
136. Jack Stephens – Jason Qualich                McKendree University                115
  Day 1: 3   06-10   Total:   3  06-10
137. Luke Willis – Brandon Wingo                  University of South Carolina        114
  Day 1: 4   06-09   Total:   4  06-09
138. Chan Barber II – Ben Hutchins                NC State University                 113
  Day 1: 3   06-09   Total:   3  06-09
138. Derek Rodriguez Jr. – Dalton Mollenkopf      Adrian College                      113
  Day 1: 3   06-09   Total:   3  06-09
138. Brody Wilson – Cole Bedard                   NC State University                 113
  Day 1: 3   06-09   Total:   3  06-09
141. Kyle Zainitzer – Brock Vogel                 University of North Alabama         110
  Day 1: 2   06-06   Total:   2  06-06
142. Alex Nesmith – Ty Reynolds                   Murray State University             109
  Day 1: 3   06-05   Total:   3  06-05
143. Luke Caylor – Joe Gollmer                    Indiana University                  108
  Day 1: 2   06-05   Total:   2  06-05
144. Tyler Eggers – Dustin Swafford               Catawba Valley Community College    107
  Day 1: 3   06-03   Total:   3  06-03
145. Victor Alford – Christian Misciagna          Bryan College                       106
  Day 1: 2   06-03   Total:   2  06-03
146. Sebastian DuCom – Hunter Waldrop             University of South Carolina        105
  Day 1: 1   06-02   Total:   1  06-02
147. Tyler Cory – Scott Sledge                    University of Montevallo            104
  Day 1: 2   06-01   Total:   2  06-01
148. Sam Hoesley – Malcolm Patton                 Auburn University                   103
  Day 1: 3   06-00   Total:   3  06-00
149. Caleb Bridges –                              Bryan College                       102
  Day 1: 2   06-00   Total:   2  06-00
150. Parker Dickerson – Dawson Carden             Emmanuel College                    101
  Day 1: 4   05-14   Total:   4  05-14
151. Max Pierlott – Mike Pierlott                 UNC – Charlotte                     100
  Day 1: 2   05-09   Total:   2  05-09
152. Harlan Thomas – Jack Thompson                Murray State University              99
  Day 1: 3   05-08   Total:   3  05-08
153. Logan East – Conner Giles                    Bryan College                        98
  Day 1: 2   05-08   Total:   2  05-08
153. Hunter Townsend – Jonathan Wehner Jr         James Madison University             98
  Day 1: 2   05-08   Total:   2  05-08
155. Bennett Slinkard – Matthew Parrish           Auburn University                    96
  Day 1: 3   05-07   Total:   3  05-07
156. Cy Lambert – Austin King                     University of North Alabama          95
  Day 1: 2   05-06   Total:   2  05-06
157. Nate Triplett – Holden Johnson               University of North Alabama          94
  Day 1: 2   05-04   Total:   2  05-04
157. Brendan Vinton – Jacob Vanscoik              Catawba Valley Community College     94
  Day 1: 2   05-04   Total:   2  05-04
159. Campbell Coyle – Tanner Davis                University of Kentucky               92
  Day 1: 2   04-15   Total:   2  04-15
160. Jonah Barrow – Logan Russell                 University of Nebraska – Lincoln     91
  Day 1: 2   04-14   Total:   2  04-14
161. Blake Bullock – John Mark Berry              Blue Mountain Christian Universi     90
  Day 1: 2   04-13   Total:   2  04-13
161. Max Newkirk – Makenzie Shelton               Murray State University              90
  Day 1: 2   04-13   Total:   2  04-13
163. Carter Smith – Sam Ausbrooks                 Wabash Valley College                88
  Day 1: 2   04-12   Total:   2  04-12
164. Hunter Russell – Benny Blank                 Wabash Valley College                87
  Day 1: 1   04-11   Total:   1  04-11
165. Jaxson Freeman – Connor Hall                 McKendree University                 86
  Day 1: 2   04-10   Total:   2  04-10
165. Connor Slaughter – Logan Greeno              University of Nebraska – Lincoln     86
  Day 1: 2   04-10   Total:   2  04-10
167. Robert Richbourg – Cal Austin                Catawba Valley Community College     84
  Day 1: 2   04-07   Total:   2  04-07
168. Robie Vines Jr – Zeb Roberts                 Catawba Valley Community College     83
  Day 1: 2   04-01   Total:   2  04-01
169. Jake Thornbury – Lane Pohlman                Campbellsville University            82
  Day 1: 2   03-11   Total:   2  03-11
170. Drake Sturgill –                             University of Montevallo             81
  Day 1: 2   03-10   Total:   2  03-10
171. Tucker Dottley – Jordan Hampton              Bethel University                    80
  Day 1: 2   03-09   Total:   2  03-09
172. Braden Cox – Joel Berelsman                  Ohio State University                79
  Day 1: 1   03-09   Total:   1  03-09
173. Hunter Pearson – Gregory Belvin              NC State University                  78
  Day 1: 1   03-08   Total:   1  03-08
174. Jeffrey Jones – Coleman Bingham              Bethel University                    77
  Day 1: 1   03-05   Total:   1  03-05
174. Gage Starks – Anthony Ethridge               Murray State University              77
  Day 1: 1   03-05   Total:   1  03-05
176. Dylan Reid – Cohen Smith                     Georgia Southern University          75
  Day 1: 1   03-04   Total:   1  03-04
177. Kyle Knoll – Evan Conn                       Auburn University                    74
  Day 1: 2   03-03   Total:   2  03-03
178. Jacob Swanson – Zack Cooper                  University of Montevallo             73
  Day 1: 2   03-02   Total:   2  03-02
179. David Alan Stith – Jase Smith Jr.            Georgia College                      72
  Day 1: 2   03-00   Total:   2  03-00
180. Ryan Foster – Will Hornsby                   McKendree University                 71
  Day 1: 1   03-00   Total:   1  03-00
180. Ethan Tedder – Hunter Brewer                 University of North Alabama          71
  Day 1: 1   03-00   Total:   1  03-00
182. TJ Davis –                                   Webber International University      69
  Day 1: 1   02-15   Total:   1  02-15
182. Hunter Jeffcoat – Reese Melven               University of South Carolina         69
  Day 1: 1   02-15   Total:   1  02-15
182. Jackson Locklair –                           University of South Carolina         69
  Day 1: 1   02-15   Total:   1  02-15
182. Jadon Spencer – Chase Martin                 Catawba Valley Community College     69
  Day 1: 1   02-15   Total:   1  02-15
182. Ryan Thomas –                                University of Pikeville              69
  Day 1: 1   02-15   Total:   1  02-15
187. Jack Alexander – Ryan Thomas                 University of Montevallo             64
  Day 1: 1   02-14   Total:   1  02-14
187. Aidan Kolb – Tanner Brockman                 Murray State University              64
  Day 1: 1   02-14   Total:   1  02-14
189. Jacob Highley – William Copley               Kentucky Christian University        62
  Day 1: 1   02-13   Total:   1  02-13
190. Branson Campbell – Hayden Short              Kentucky Christian University        61
  Day 1: 1   02-12   Total:   1  02-12
190. Chandler Pruett – Wes Bailey                 Blue Mountain Christian Universi     61
  Day 1: 1   02-12   Total:   1  02-12
192. Garrett Huddleston – Riley Voltz             Auburn University                    59
  Day 1: 1   02-11   Total:   1  02-11
193. Tristen Dubbs – Luke Rosebrook               Grace College                        58
  Day 1: 1   02-10   Total:   1  02-10
194. Cameron Smith – Thomas Phillips              Ohio State University                57
  Day 1: 1   02-09   Total:   1  02-09
195. Karsten Raney – Ben Sadler                   Campbellsville University            56
  Day 1: 1   02-08   Total:   1  02-08
196. Hayden Fry – Vance Roberts                   McKendree University                 55
  Day 1: 1   02-06   Total:   1  02-06
196. Austin Marley – Jack Richardson              Georgia Southern University          55
  Day 1: 1   02-06   Total:   1  02-06
198. Spencer Grooms – Jake Woodward               Auburn University                    53
  Day 1: 1   02-04   Total:   1  02-04
199. Payton Sodervick – Adam Troyer               Indiana University                   52
  Day 1: 1   02-03   Total:   1  02-03
200. Gus Dietrich – Jack Wilson                   University of Alabama                51
  Day 1: 1   01-15   Total:   1  01-15
200. Caleb Griffin – Kobi May                     Bryan College                        51
  Day 1: 1   01-15   Total:   1  01-15
202. River Blanton – Brock Catlett                Campbellsville University            49
  Day 1: 1   01-12   Total:   1  01-12
202. Lucas Bowers – Aaron Barbone                 University of South Carolina         49
  Day 1: 1   01-12   Total:   1  01-12
204. Cole Mitchell – Hayden Mare                  High Point University                47
  Day 1: 1   01-11   Total:   1  01-11
205. Allen Everett –                              Murray State University              46
  Day 1: 1   01-04   Total:   1  01-04
206. Brock Batson –                               Coastal Carolina University           0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Cole Berry – Braci Ault                      Purdue University                     0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. William Brogan – Cole Bubenzer               Indiana University                    0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Lynn Chitwood – Trevor Moore                 Virginia Tech                         0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Kolby Clark – Rees Williams                  University of North Alabama           0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Preston Cobb – Logan Hopper                  Clemson University                    0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Caden Crutchfield –                          Murray State University               0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Luke Dardeen – Connor Becker                 Wabash Valley College                 0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Will Darley – Preston Barnett                Southern Union State Community C      0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Owen Day –                                   Morehead State University             0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Lance Denney – Trevor Schleich               University of Nebraska – Lincoln      0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Cole Edwards – Owen Zugel                    University of Montevallo              0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Emily Freeman – Charly Hutson                Murray State University               0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Alex Geroulis – Harrison Bomba               Indiana University                    0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Benjamin Graves –                            University of North Alabama           0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. William Gully – Chapman Horsley              Southern Union State Community C      0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Bryson Hatcher – Matthew Dopp                Bryan College                         0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Tanner Herndon –                             Bryan College                         0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Tyler Hudson – Evan Mcnaughton               Western Kentucky University           0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Andrew Jones – Tyler Malone                  Southern Union State Community C      0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Noah Jones – Dane Leopold                    Coastal Carolina University           0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Hunter Kellogg – Roen Chenevey               Ohio State University                 0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Jake Kimbrough – Tyler Hill                  Blue Mountain Christian Universi      0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Riley Lawson – Joe Bob Burchett              Morehead State University             0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Trenton Luginbill – Payton Donahoo           University of South Carolina          0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Aaron Mcgill –                               Coastal Carolina University           0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. David Noel – Jack Hargreaves                 Ohio State University                 0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Parker O’Bryan – Miller Dowling              University of Montevallo              0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Nathan Preston – Reece Tremaglio             Auburn University                     0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206.  Reed Rambo – Brady Maddox                   Georgia College                       0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Leo Romano – Miller Kieran                   James Madison University              0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Gavin Sheffer – Kris Kautz                   Liberty University                    0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   Total:   0  00-00
206. Jackson Smith – Sawyer Williams              Bethel University                     0



WACKY RIGGING WORMS TO CATCH 10X BASS!

Brian Carter
-
0
WACKY RIGGING WORMS TO CATCH 10X BASS!
Winter is here, and it’s the perfect time to refine your Wacky rigging techniques for cold-water bass fishing. In the frosty months, the Wacky rig, particularly with 5-inch and 6-inch worms, becomes an invaluable method for catching more bass. As winter sets in, bass adjusts their habits to the colder temperatures, making the Wacky rig an ideal choice. This rig allows the worm to move in a way that closely imitates the prey bass are hunting in this season. This realistic motion is especially enticing in cold water, prompting bass to strike more readily. The choice of 5-inch and 6-inch worms is strategic for winter fishing. These sizes are large enough to attract significant bass while still appealing to smaller, more active ones in the cold. This ensures you can target both trophy bass and the more abundant smaller fish. Additionally, the slower descent of the Wacky rigged worm in cold water creates a tantalizing presentation that can be irresistible to winter bass. The versatility of the Wacky rig shines in winter. Whether you’re fishing over winter vegetation in shallow areas or in deeper, colder waters, this rig proves effective. It can be particularly successful around structures such as submerged branches, remaining weed beds, or close to drop-offs where bass may be tempted to congregate in winter.Using a stick-styled worm is the most tried and true ways to catch fish. We offer a wide variety of 5 to 6-inch Worms to choose from. You can also experience our new wacky rigging kit while it’s ON SALE! The WACKY Pack offers our most popular colors and essential tools, this new kit features 24 high-quality worms in Green Pumpkin, Watermelon Red, and Black & Blue, alongside four precision-crafted Owner Wacky Hooks 1/8oz. Each of our FRESH Worm is expertly designed from non-salt plastic for lifelike action and buoyancy, making it irresistible to a wide range of fish – from Smallmouth to Largemouth, Panfish to Trout, and Walleye. Specially scented for maximum attraction, these worms are perfect for fishing in lakes, rivers, and streams, ensuring high success rates in any condition. Hand-made in the United States, the WACKY Pack is not just a tackle kit but a symbol of quality and solid durability. Its classic color designs and superior worm profile are ideal for anglers of all levels. Embrace the fun and ease of fishing with our new wacky rigging kit, which promises real-life action and lasting durability year-round.
 
For those new to winter bass fishing, the Wacky rig is a user-friendly option. It requires minimal equipment—a basic rod and reel will do. Setting it up is simple: thread the Wacky hook through the center of a soft plastic worm to ensure a natural movement in the water. Cast it out, let it sink in the cold water, and use a gentle twitching technique to imitate the movements of live prey in winter. Picture yourself on a crisp winter day, casting your Wacky rigged worm near a remnant weed bed. The subtle movements of your worm tempt a bass from its cold-water hideout, creating an exhilarating fishing experience. Or perhaps you’re fishing a deeper spot near a drop-off, where your worm’s natural action in the clear, cold water attracts the attention of a lurking bass. The finesse of the Wacky rig is particularly effective in clear, cold waters where bass may be more tentative. Plus, with its minimal gear requirement, it’s a technique accessible to all anglers. Additionally, the worms effectiveness in various winter conditions, from shores to deeper, colder waters, makes it a versatile tool in your arsenal. This winter, let the Wacky rig be your secret to catching more bass, and enjoying the winter.In the chill of winter, the Wacky rig stands out as a refined finesse technique, ideal for anglers who enjoy the challenge of cold-water fishing. This method is about more than just catching bass; it’s about appreciating the interplay of patience and skill. The Wacky rig’s effectiveness lies in the presentation of the worm with an enticing movement, almost mesmerizing to bass in cold waters. As the worm elegantly moves, it closely resembles the prey bass are seeking in these colder months, often enticing even the most elusive of them. Furthermore, during the winter, the slower metabolism of bass requires a more deliberate presentation of the bait, which the Wacky rig excellently facilitates. Its subtlety and subdued action are perfectly aligned with the lethargic behavior of bass in cold water, making it a top choice for winter fishing. The rig’s ability to adapt to the reduced activity of bass in winter, offering a presentation that can trigger strikes even in the most inactive fish, further enhances its effectiveness. For the adventurous angler, the adaptability of the Wacky rig is invaluable. Whether fishing beside a partially frozen stream or in deeper waters that reflect the stark winter skies, this technique remains effective. It’s extremely versatile in various water clarity.
As winter’s chill deepens, bass become more active in response to the colder water, making them more attentive to the baits presented. This seasonal shift calls for anglers to adjust their tactics, and the Wacky rig offers two specialized techniques for these active winter bass. First is the wacky jig head, ideal for the cold waters of winter. Its central hook placement allows the worm to exhibit a natural, enticing movement, similar to the prey bass target in winter. The design of this jig head is to keep the worm securely attached, reducing the chance of losing it. Its weight is beneficial in winter, helping the bait quickly reach the deeper spots where bass often retreat during colder months. However, in areas with dense winter vegetation, this jig head might be prone to snags. Then there’s the indispensable mosquito hook for Wacky rigging. As light as a snowflake and exceptionally sharp, it provides various rigging options suitable for the Wacky technique. Using accessories like rubber bands or O-rings, anglers can make the worm weedless, perfect for navigating through winter’s underwater plant life. The lighter mosquito hook allows the worm to move more freely, imitating the natural prey of bass in winter effectively. This adaptability of the mosquito hook in a variety of weather conditions, from the cold shallows to deeper water, vegetated areas, makes it a versatile and essential tool for anglers.We have a wide variety of terminal tackle to choose from, but when it comes to wacky rigging worms, using the right hooks and jig heads can make all the difference. The Owner Wacky Jig Head and Owner Mosquito Hook are two options that are particularly well-suited for wacky rigging and offer several advantages over other types of hooks. First, the Owner Wacky Jig Head is specifically designed for wacky rigging and features a unique shape that helps to keep the worm in place while in the water. This allows for a more natural presentation and helps to reduce the chances of the worm slipping off the hook. The jig head also has a weight that helps to get the worm down to the desired depth quickly, making it easier to control the bait and keep it in the strike zone. Second, the Owner Mosquito Hook is an incredibly sharp, lightweight hook that is perfect for wacky rigging worms. Its thin wire design allows for a more natural presentation and helps to reduce the chances of the bait being detected by fish. The hook’s sharp point makes it easier to set the hook when a fish strikes, increasing the chances of a successful hookset. Together, the Owner Wacky Jig Head and Owner Mosquito Hook create a winning combination that can help anglers catch more fish when wacky rigging worms in any season.



Ultimate Tackle Storage Secrets Anglers Can’t Resist!

Brian Carter
-
0
Ultimate Tackle Storage Secrets Anglers Can’t Resist!

Fishing can be a gear-heavy endeavor and an angler’s tackle box often becomes a chaotic collection of hooks, lures, and lines. Over time, tackle storage has become a significant issue for most anglers. I remember my first Plano box. Too rudimentary, if you ask me. From the Original Stowaway boxes to the modern Edge and Frabill series, Plano succeeded in providing every possible solution to every possible storage problem an angler could face over the past decades. However, navigating the thorny paths of what to buy for optimal tackle storage and answering the question, “Is spending extra money for lure care worth it?” can be daunting.

In recent years we have witnessed a surge of companies promising to revolutionize tackle storage, with Lure Lock and Buzbe standing out. Critics often lump them as a “fad”—but let’s dive deeper into the reasons behind their emergence. I see three main reasons; evolving angler demands, a thirst for uniqueness, and a justification for higher pricing.

Let’s examine Lure Lock. The company, a confluence of innovation and technology, introduced the Tacklebox with ElasTak Liner; lockable boxes that prevent baits from shifting around, thus reducing damage. The ElasTak liner aids lure presentation and reduces the mess typical of regular tackle boxes. It’s a love letter to lure care. However, the fulfillment of this promise determines their longevity in the market, not whether they are fashionable or trending.

On the other hand, we have Buzbe. This company brought modularity into tackle storage. And the result? The Colony 28 or 15, engineered with military-grade ruggedness, waterproof, and customizable compartments. Talk about revolutionizing gear organization. The boxes are designed to accommodate varying tackle sizes. Hence, no lure goes homeless or lost. The convenience offered justifies the extra spend.

It’s easy to dismiss new product entrants like Lure Lock and Buzbe as trends. Yes, spending extra on these new-age tackle storage solutions can be seen as a luxury. But if their value offers more than just a fad and caters to convenience, why not? After all, proper tackle care can lead to more successful catches.

In conclusion, it’s not about whether these companies are a fad. It’s about the problem they solve and the experience they provide. The effectiveness of a tackle storage system is dependent on how well it caters to your individual fishing needs. If spending extra brings you convenience and longevity, then it definitely isn’t a “fad”—it’s a worthy investment.



Big bags expected for Bassmaster Open at Lake Okeechobee, but weather will likely determine how many

Brian Carter
-
0
Big bags expected for Bassmaster Open at Lake Okeechobee, but weather will likely determine how many

Florida’s Lake Okeechobee will kick off the 2024 St. Croix Bassmaster Opens presented by SEVIIN season February 1-3. 

Photo by Craig Lamb/B.A.S.S.

January 25, 2024

Big bags expected for Bassmaster Open at Lake Okeechobee, but weather will likely determine how many

Opens_StCroix_Sevin_4C-RASTER.png

CLEWISTON, Fla. — The 2024 season of the St. Croix Bassmaster Opens presented by SEVIIN is set to kick off at one of the top big-bass factories in the country — Lake Okeechobee. But like so many early-season tournaments held in the state of Florida, just how many big bags are caught will ultimately be determined by the weather. Longtime Florida pro Mike Surman is fishing the Elite Qualifiers division of the Bassmaster Opens, a division newly established in 2023 that requires anglers to fish all nine Opens events throughout the season as they compete for one of nine spots in the 2025 Bassmaster Elite Series.  

Surman believes warm weather following a cold front could yield big bites, while a sudden temperature drop might make finding fish more of a challenge.

“If the bass are coming off a cold front and we get a warming trend, they will go crazy and you will see quite a few 25-pound bags,” the EQ pro said. “If it is the opposite, and it may have been warm in practice and we get a cold front, then fishing is going to be tough — 15 pounds a day will probably be good.”

Tournament days are scheduled for Feb. 1-3 with takeoffs each day from Roland Martin Marina at 7 a.m. ET and weigh-ins back at the marina each day at 3 p.m. The full field of pros and co-anglers will fish the first two days, while only the Top 10 pros will advance to Championship Saturday.

The winner will qualify for the 2025 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic, assuming they fish all three events in Division I.

Arguably the best lake in the country at one point, Okeechobee has a storied past with B.A.S.S. The most recent chapter was written during last year’s Bassmaster Elite Series event, when Tyler Rivet won a back-and-forth affair with a four-day total of 86 pounds, 15 ounces.

During the months leading up to this Open, Surman said Okeechobee has fished really well, particularly in December. Multiple 30-pound bags have been weighed in during recent tournament competition, and Surman said he caught a couple of 35-pound bags preparing for this event.

With cooler temperatures moving south, fishing hasn’t been quite as good in January, but a warming trend will heat the water and get the bass moving again.

“In early December, the fishing was on fire,” he said. “All the tournaments, they were just killing them. It has gotten a little tougher since. The water temperature had dropped to 62 to 64 degrees right before the [off-limits] cutoff [for the Open].

“It has been a fairly mild winter. We’ve had a few cold-front days, but we haven’t come close to freezing yet,” Surman continued. “Our cold-front days will be around 42 to 45 degrees, and that has happened a couple times, but it has warmed back up every time within days. The major fronts haven’t gotten down to us for the most part.”

Covering nearly 451,000 acres, Okeechobee is a massive lake. The amount of fishable water, however, is a quarter of that size — for a couple of reasons.

For one thing, Okeechobee is a couple of feet higher than it was during last year’s Elite Series event and slightly dirtier.

“There are five or six key places around the lake where guys have been catching big bags,” Surman said. “Outside of those places, it has been tough. Can guys find some secret places? Absolutely. That’s what everyone will be trying to do. But those five or six places will have 20 to 30 boats in each one. That makes it tough.”

Grass is far less prominent as a whole on the lake than it has been in past years. What’s left are mostly reed heads, Kissimmee grass, buggy whips, cattails and decaying debris.

“There was a lot of eelgrass last year that was essentially all over the lake, and there may be two or three little patches left,” Surman said. “That’s because the water is higher and that makes the water dirtier, which makes the plant life a little harder to grow. There is essentially no grass.”

At the beginning of February, the bass are usually in one of their spawning stages, whether that be prespawn, postspawn or actually spawning. Weather determines which one is most prominent, as well as the moon phase.

The Opens anglers will be four or five days behind the full moon. But with the right water temperatures, around 70 degrees, what Surman calls “lake fish” will move from the main lake to the shallows to spawn. With dirtier water than normal, Surman believes there will be bass caught off of beds, but sight fishing won’t necessarily be the key deal.

Many bass will still be offshore as well, chasing shad and other baitfish, creating interesting forward-facing sonar opportunities. Big bags will be caught either way, but cold-front conditions will make consistency difficult.

“It is very hard to be consistent during cold-front days,” Surman said. “You can catch a big bag, but you don’t see it very often. It would be good to get one really good day and then just hang out. But if it is a warming trend, you better go catch five big ones, and a bunch of people will do that.”

If water temperatures are below 64 degrees, Surman envisions a three-day winning weight in the vicinity of 56 pounds. If the water temperature is over 68 degrees, he says things could get interesting.

“I think it will take close to 70 pounds if it’s over 68 degrees,” he said.

All coverage from the St. Croix Bassmaster Open at Lake Okeechobee presented by SEVIIN will be available on Bassmaster.com.

The final day of competition will be broadcast live on FS1 Saturday morning beginning at 8 a.m. ET, with streaming available on Bassmaster.com, as well as FS2 and the FOX Sports digital platforms.

The tournament is being hosted by the City of Clewiston.



Bass Pro Shops hooks title sponsorship of the 2024 Bassmaster Classic

Brian Carter
-
0
Bass Pro Shops hooks title sponsorship of the 2024 Bassmaster Classic

anuary 25, 2024

Bass Pro Shops hooks title sponsorship of the 2024 Bassmaster Classic

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Two of the most iconic and historic brands in bass fishing announced an exciting partnership today. Bass Pro Shops, the world’s foremost outdoor retailer, will be the title sponsor of the 2024 Bassmaster Classic, the world’s most prestigious bass fishing event. The Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic will be held in Tulsa March 22-24, with competition taking place on Oklahoma’s Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees. The tournament will feature 56 of the nation’s most talented anglers vying for more than $1 million in prize money.

“We are very honored to partner with Bassmaster and serve as the title sponsor for the 2024 Bassmaster Classic,” said Johnny Morris, five-time Classic qualifier, noted conservationist and founder of Bass Pro Shops. “Some of my happiest memories in life were competing on the tournament trail and creating many special, lifelong friendships. I feel very blessed to have spent my entire life in and around the great sport of fishing and to have had the opportunity to serve fellow anglers. I am forever grateful to Ray Scott, for without him and his B.A.S.S. Tournament Trail, Bass Pro Shops would have never happened.”

The relationship between Bass Pro Shops and B.A.S.S. goes back to the birth of competitive bass fishing. When Ray Scott created the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society in 1967, Johnny Morris became an early competitor. At the same time, Morris started a small tackle business out of a corner of his father’s liquor store in Springfield, Mo., in 1972. As B.A.S.S. tournaments grew, so did Morris’ tackle business, and he eventually created the first Bass Pro Shops catalog in 1974. Now, in 2024, the two organizations will share the spotlight on the biggest stage in bass fishing.

“This partnership is so meaningful to B.A.S.S. for so many reasons,” said Chase Anderson, CEO of B.A.S.S. “Our organizations both helped build and define an industry while focusing on conservation, education and inspiration. We have shared values and both maintain a sharp focus on the future of our sport while celebrating the rich history of bass fishing. We look forward to celebrating together at the Classic with the rabid fans in attendance as a new champion is crowned.”

Last year’s Super Bowl of Bass Fishing set a new all-time attendance record, with 163,914 fans visiting Knoxville, Tenn. Alongside this incredible throng of bass fishing fanatics, online fans streamed 32.7 million minutes of content across Bassmaster LIVE digital platforms, breaking all previous viewing records, while the live coverage on FOX and FS1 reached 4.5 million viewers across the two days of coverage on those networks. 

As always, the Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo presented by GSM Outdoors will be a treat for fans visiting Tulsa. More than 200 vendors will fill the Cox Business Convention Center, which will be open for free to the public the weekend of the event.



Toyota Extends Major League Fishing Sponsorship to 2028

Brian Carter
-
0
Toyota Extends Major League Fishing Sponsorship to 2028

Toyota Will Continue as Exclusive Vehicle and Title Sponsor of Toyota Series to 2028 Under Five-Year Extension Announced by Toyota and MLF

BENTON, Ky. (Jan. 25, 2024) – Major League Fishing (MLF) announced today the renewal of its global sponsorship with Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) via a 5-year extension that ensures the Texas-based automotive manufacturer will continue to serve as the Exclusive Vehicle and Mobility Sponsor of the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization.

“When we first entered a relationship with Toyota, Major League Fishing was confident that this would be an exceptional collaboration,” said Jim Wilburn, MLF President of Sales. “The two organizations have similar corporate values and we are pleased with the direction this sponsorship has taken. As the Official Vehicle Sponsor, Toyota has gone above and beyond to help create an outstanding experience for our anglers and fans. We’re thrilled to announce a continuation of this valued collaboration up to 2028.”

The sponsorship renewal marks an extension of the four-year agreement that Toyota signed in 2020. Toyota will remain the title sponsor of the MLF Toyota Series, which showcases the top regional anglers from around the country competing close to home for incredible awards and to fish against the top MLF international anglers at the prestigious Toyota Series Championship and REDCREST. Those two premier MLF events feature $200,000 and $300,000 top prizes, respectively, and the most lucrative payouts in the sport. Toyota will also continue to offer the extremely successful and lucrative Toyota Bonus Bucks contingency program, the only truck contingency program that pays anglers to fish, to MLF competitors of all experience levels.

“We are very pleased to be continuing our relationship as the Exclusive Vehicle of Major League Fishing,” said Steve Appelbaum, National Manager, Sponsorship Integration for Toyota Motor North America. “Through this sponsorship with the world’s largest tournament-fishing organization, Toyota will continue to showcase our vehicles to a very loyal, engaged and enthusiastic fanbase.”

Toyota has been the Official Vehicle Sponsor and title sponsor of the MLF Toyota Series since 2020. Toyota’s latest sponsorship of MLF builds on the company’s existing involvement in the world of bass fishing, with continued activations and family-friendly activities at select Bass Pro Tour events.

Toyota will have an extensive presence across all MLF media platforms, including tournaments and activations, website and social media channels, and MLF livestream and television programming on CBS, Discovery Channel, Outdoor Channel, World Fishing Network and on demand on MyOutdoorTV (MOTV). Toyota will also be prominently showcased as a premier exhibitor at the REDCREST 2024 Outdoor Sports Expo, March 15-17, in Birmingham, Alabama.

In addition to MLF, Toyota will also continue to sponsor Bass Pro Tour anglers Mark Daniels, Jr. and Terry “Big Show” Scroggins.

For complete details and updated information on Major League Fishing, its tournaments, and sponsors, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF’s social media outlets at Facebook, Twitter,  Instagram and  YouTube.



Southern Precipitation Boomerang

Brian Carter
-
0
Southern Precipitation Boomerang
New From The WeatherChannel.com

Drought Monitor analyses on June 6, 2023, Oct. 24, 2023, then on Jan. 16, 2024. (Data: NDMC/NOAA/USDA)
Southern Precipitation Boomerang

We’ve talked about whiplashes in precipitation before, such as California and the West’s stunningly wet, snowy winter last year following years of drought. In the South, that might be more of a boomerang right now.

Last June, most of the region was drought-free. Then, the hottest summer on record in Louisiana and over a dozen Gulf Coast cities triggered the most widespread highest-level drought in Louisiana and Mississippi since 2000. What followed was Louisiana’s record wildfire year, parched ground and low Mississippi River levels that allowed a wedge of Gulf saltwater to ooze north.

This winter, however, the drought area was repeatedly soaked, due in part to an energized southern jet stream during a strong El Niño. Flash flood warnings have been issued the past few days from Texas to the Deep South, including some of the most drought-parched areas.

And that’s steadily eroding the drought. NOAA’s latest outlook suggests most of it will be at least “improved” or “removed” by spring. If this pattern continues, I wouldn’t be surprised if it was completely erased in the South by March. That means the South could go from no drought to the highest drought category to no drought again in the span of nine months.



Ten Square Games Expands Partnership with Major League Fishing to Sponsor Fishing Clash Angler of the Year Awards

Brian Carter
-
0
Ten Square Games Expands Partnership with Major League Fishing to Sponsor Fishing Clash Angler of the Year Awards

BENTON, Ky. & WARSAW, Poland (Jan. 24, 2024) – Major League Fishing announced today a new title sponsor for the prestigious Angler of the Year (AOY) awards in its four top circuits. Ten Square Games will showcase its leading mobile game Fishing Clash as the AOY title sponsor for the Bass Pro Tour, Tackle Warehouse Invitationals, Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats and Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine.

The sponsorship follows the success of a marketing partnership first launched in August, which saw the two brands work together on a co-branded promotion where players of Fishing Clash competed in daily MLF-branded events on a digital Saginaw Bay at the same time MLF pros were on the actual waters competing at the final event of the 2023 Bass Pro Tour season in Bay City, Michigan.

“With a player base of more than 80 million people, Fishing Clash is exposing our sport to outdoor enthusiasts around the world,” said Kathy Fennel, Executive Vice President & General Manager of Major League Fishing. “With their expanded presence as the official MLF Angler of the Year program sponsor, across four circuits, we’re excited to broaden Fishing Clash’s engagement in the sport of professional bass fishing and are confident that this partnership will be mutually beneficial.”

One of the most difficult titles to win, no matter the level, MLF Angler of the Year awards honor the angler in each circuit who performs best throughout the entire season – not just winning an event. To earn the preeminent title on the 2024 Bass Pro Tour, the sport’s top level, an angler must outfish 80 of the top professional anglers in the world across seven tournaments. The AOY must be extremely versatile, as, like Fishing Clash, the Bass Pro Tour features anglers competing at different types of fisheries throughout the season.

Four anglers have earned the Angler of the Year title since the Bass Pro Tour was first launched in 2019, including two-time winner Jacob Wheeler – the only angler to ever claim the title twice. In 2023, rookie Matt Becker earned the honor, becoming the first angler to ever earn the title in his rookie season.

“Through our continued partnership with Major League Fishing, we are not just sponsoring an event; we are showcasing our unwavering dedication to the sport of fishing,” said Andrzej Ilczuk, CEO of Ten Square Games. “This collaboration serves as a bridge between the virtual realm of Fishing Clash and the passion shared by outdoor enthusiasts worldwide. It’s more than a sponsorship – it’s a commitment to bringing together the virtual and real-world fishing communities, creating an immersive experience that resonates with anglers everywhere.”

The Fishing Clash 2024 Angler of the Year Awards will be:

  • Bass Pro Tour Fishing Clash Angler of the Year: $100,000
  • Tackle Warehouse Invitationals Fishing Clash Angler of the Year: $50,000
  • Toyota Series Fishing Clash Angler of the Year (1 per division – 6 total): $5,000 each
  • Phoenix Bass Fishing League Fishing Clash Angler of the Year (1 per division – 24 total): $1,000 each

As the title sponsor of the Angler of the Year Award, Fishing Clash will be prominently showcased during MLFNOW! live streams and TV broadcasts on Discovery and Outdoor Channel and enjoy extensive exposure across multiple MLF media channels. Fishing Clash will be featured in all Bass Pro Tour television broadcasts, totaling 312 hours of coverage. Fishing Clash will be tagged in posts related to the Bass Pro Tour AOY race on MLF’s social media outlets, and the game will also be showcased in linkable materials, YouTube videos, Facebook live interviews, social media polls, and a dedicated Fishing Clash Angler of the Year takeover on the MLF Instagram page, all strategically including installation and redirection links. This comprehensive coverage includes MLF Bass Fishing Magazine, with Fishing Clash naturally featured in all six issues annually, providing Ten Square Games a unique opportunity to connect with a target audience passionate about fishing and outdoor activities.

Fishing Clash is one of the leading mobile games worldwide, ranked in the top 50 in the Google Play store and played by more than 80 million people in 171 countries. The interactive 3D fishing simulator offers players the opportunity to grab their fishing tackle and go on extreme fishing adventures. The game offers an abundance of fish species and superb fishing experiences at numerous locations worldwide, including previous MLF Bass Pro Tour fisheries like Lake Guntersville, the Great Lakes and Saginaw Bay.

The 2024 Bass Pro Tour Fishing Clash Angler of the Year race begins Jan. 30 – Feb. 4 at the Bass Pro Tour Stage One at Toledo Bend Reservoir in Many, Louisiana. Fishing Clash players will be able to compete in daily MLF-branded events on a virtual Toledo Bend Reservoir while Bass Pro Tour pros are competing in real life on the fishery. Fishing Clash will add select MLF-branded Bass Pro Tour locations to its virtual fisheries throughout the 2024 season.

For more information about Fishing Clash, visit FishingClash.game or download the Fishing Clash game on iOS or Android. For complete details and updated information on Major League Fishing, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com.



MAXAM Tire takes title sponsorship for Bassmaster Elite event at St. Johns River

Brian Carter
-
0
MAXAM Tire takes title sponsorship for Bassmaster Elite event at St. Johns River

MAXAM Tire is set to host the 2024 MAXAM Tire Bassmaster Elite at St. Johns River April 18-21. 

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

January 24, 2024

MAXAM Tire takes title sponsorship for Bassmaster Elite event at St. Johns River

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — MAXAM Tire, a global leader in specialty tire manufacturing, has signed on as the title sponsor for the final event of the 2024 Elite season’s Sunshine State swing. The 2024 MAXAM Tire Bassmaster Elite at St. Johns River will be held April 18-21 in Palatka, Fla.

“We are absolutely thrilled to enter into the exciting world of Bassmaster as a title sponsor in 2024,” said Jimmy McDonnell, VP of Sales & Marketing at MAXAM Tire. “At MAXAM Tire, we are excited to align ourselves with a sport that holds a special place in the hearts of so many hardworking individuals, especially our valued customers. Just like anglers who tirelessly pursue their passion on the water, we are dedicated to delivering top-notch performance and reliability in our products. This partnership is not just about supporting an incredible sport, but also celebrating the dedication and determination that reflect our core values.”

2024 will mark the 25th time a major B.A.S.S. event has been held on the St. Johns River — a quintessential Florida fishery that features vast shoreline cover, big Florida-strain largemouth and breathtaking scenery with Spanish moss-covered trees, alligators and manatees. When the Elites last visited the St. Johns in 2022, veteran angler John Crews claimed his second blue trophy with a four-day total of 75 pounds, 4 ounces.

Live coverage of all four days of the MAXAM Tire Bassmaster Elite at St. Johns River starts Thursday, April 18 on Bassmaster.com, Tubi and the FOX Sports digital platforms. FS1 will also broadcast live with the tournament leaders beginning at 7:30 a.m. ET Saturday and 8 a.m. Sunday.

About MAXAM Tire
As a major global specialty tire manufacturer and distributor, MAXAM has a strong reputation for market-leading quality, reliability and delivered value. Our organization’s foundation is centered around world-class engineering practices and the most advanced manufacturing platforms within our industry, ensuring superior product quality.



Tips for Fishing Winter Cold Fronts

Brian Carter
-
0
Tips for Fishing Winter Cold Fronts

By Fresh Baitz

Fishing during winter cold fronts can be remarkably effective, particularly for bass, due to several environmental factors that influence fish behavior. Cold fronts cause a sudden drop in temperature, leading to a decrease in water temperature. This change triggers bass to feed more aggressively before the water becomes too cold, which slows their metabolism. The barometric pressure changes associated with cold fronts also play a role. Falling pressure often increases fish activity, making them more likely to bite. Anglers with a very good understanding of these patterns can use them to better their advantage. By knowing when a cold front is approaching, they can time their fishing trips to coincide with these peak feeding periods. Additionally, anglers can easily observe the behavior of wildlife and natural indicators, like increased bird activity, to gauge fish activity. The clear skies that often follow a cold front can also aid visibility, making it easier for anglers to spot bass in the water. The savvy anglers can exploit the predictable behavior of bass post-cold front, focusing on strategic areas where bass are most likely to be.The newest FreshBaitz Lizard delivers a realistic profile that excels in both power and finesse techniques. Act fact, we just released a new 10w30 Syntheic Lizard color! The unique forward-facing leg design creates drag that holds it in the strike zone longer or produces wild flapping action with every pull of the rod. Additionally, its slightly ribbed solid body and large head hold your hook in place and provide much better weedless performance making it the ideal bait to use in any condition. Water clarity always plays a super big role in color selection but in any season year-round, you can’t miss when using colors such as Watermelon Red, Black & Blue, or Green Pumpkin. Its flexible tail design ensures added movement, tempting even the most cautious fish. The superior 5.5-inch profile stretches to a whole 7 inches which is perfect for predatory fish including bass year round. Each HellaMite is made from long-lasting durable high-grade non-salted plastic for total and maximum attention-grabbing action underwater.
To leverage these conditions, anglers need to adapt their strategies. During a cold front, bass often retreat to deeper, warmer waters, so targeting these areas can be fruitful. However, as the front passes and the air begins to warm slightly, bass may move to shallower areas to feed. This is when anglers should focus on areas where the sun hits the water, as these spots will warm up faster, attracting bass. Additionally, understanding the underwater structure is crucial since bass will often congregate around areas that provide shelter and a good ambush point for feeding, such as submerged logs, weed beds, or rock formations. Anglers should also pay attention to the wind direction, as it can push warmer surface water and baitfish towards certain areas, making them hotspots for bass. Being flexible and ready to change tactics based on these conditions is key. Monitoring water temperature and clarity can provide valuable clues about where bass might be located. Furthermore, anglers should be aware that bass may also change their preferred feeding zones throughout the day, requiring adaptation.We use our Fresh Scorpion because it closely imitates a crawfish. Our newest 10w30 Synthetic , Slimer Green, and Barbie Pink Scorpion colors work wonders in the winter. The Scorpion is a revolutionary new look to soft plastics. Its intricate detailing and texture mimic the nuances of a real crawfish, making it hard for bass to resist. Of course, water clarity always plays a role in color selection but in any season, you can’t miss using colors such as Green Pumpkin Seed, Brown Bark, Magneto. This bait not only appears natural to fish but gives them something to become curious about. The Scorpion paired with a stand-up jig is deadly because the jig actually sits the bait upright in a defensive stance. The subtle color variations across the bait further enhance its appeal, mimicking the natural color shifts found in live prey. Each Fresh Scorpion has a unique and exclusive 3-axis tail design that is engineered like no other soft plastic bait. Our Scorpions are made from high-grade non-salt plastic to provide superior life-like action-triggering strikes!
An angler’s knowledge of bass behavior during the cold fronts can significantly enhance their fishing experience. Bass are less active in colder water, so they will expend less energy to chase prey. This means anglers should employ a slower and much more methodical approach to their fishing. It’s beneficial to focus on gentle and subtle movements of the bait, as these are more likely to entice a lethargic bass. Additionally, understanding that bass have a far slower metabolism in colder water can help anglers be more patient and persistent. It’s crucial to maintain a slow and steady retrieval to mimic the movement of natural prey in cold water. Anglers should also consider the time of day, as bass may be more active during warmer periods. Keeping a close watch on sudden changes in weather can offer insights into the best times to fish. A comprehensive understanding of these factors can dramatically increase the likelihood of a successful catch. Adjusting the fishing location based on the time of day and the sun’s position can further optimize the chances of encountering active bass and getting a strike.Each Fresh HellaMite is scented for complete and total attraction underwater along with being made in the USA by real fishermen just like you. Our newest 10w30 Synthetic HellaMite color is a must-have. We also just released new eye-catching colors including the Slimer Green and Barbie Pink HellaMite. Act fast, these colors won’t stay in stock for long. If you’re fast enough you can also grab our seasonal limited-release Pumpkin Spice HellaMite along with the Money HellaMite. We also recently restocked our Brown Bug, Electric Chicken, and Goby Wan colors for those who’ve been waiting. Take this time to stock up! The HellaMite’s solid body and hyperactive ribbed tail design produce a life-like quivering action with every twitch of the rod. Additionally, its unique flat underbelly detail enables this bait to be fished as a drop shot, Ned rig, neko rig, and even a small Carolina-rig, making it the ideal bait in any condition. When the water is clear, the fish can see the bait more clearly and is more likely to look like real food, which increases the overall chances of strikes.  
It’s also important to consider the impact of light and sound underwater during winter cold fronts. With the typically clearer water in winter, light penetration is deeper, making bass more sensitive to movement and shadow. Anglers should be mindful of their shadow on the water and avoid unnecessary disturbances. Also, since sound travels faster in colder water, being stealthy and minimizing noise can be crucial in not spooking the fish. This includes careful handling of gear and even the boat if fishing from one. Keeping movements smooth and controlled can significantly increase the chances of success. In addition, paying attention to the direction of sunlight and positioning oneself to minimize casting shadows can be beneficial. Anglers should also be aware of the natural sounds in the environment, as these can mask their presence and help in approaching undetected. Utilizing natural light conditions to their advantage, anglers can become more effective in their pursuit of bass. This sensitivity to light and sound highlights the importance of choosing fishing spots where environmental conditions align favorably, enhancing the prospects of a successful catch.Our Fresh Beetle delivers ultimate versatility in a soft plastic bait. Its slim yet wide body design and four claws are engineered to naturally glide and wobble as it moves through the water. This design ensures they remain enticingly active longer than conventional baits. Its unique texture also provides a realistic feel, making bass hold on longer once they bite. Water clarity plays a big role in color selection but year-round you can’t miss when using go-to colors such as Chocolate Mint, Ox Blood, or 10w30 Synthetic beetles. The hyper-active swimming claws are designed thin with long-lasting durable non-salt plastic to make them come alive with the slightest movement. The Fresh Beetle offers an enticing 4-inch profile and is scented for complete and total attraction! You can rig these Beetles as a Jig/ Chatter Trailer, Flippin/ Punching, Texas Rig, Swing Jig, and Carolina Rig. Making the beetle beyond perfect in any weather condition year-round!
Weather patterns before and after the cold front also play a significant role in bass fishing. Before the front, bass may feed aggressively in anticipation of the coming change in weather. After the front, however, their activity levels can decrease significantly. Anglers should take advantage of the pre-frontal conditions by fishing more aggressively. Post-front, the key is patience and focusing on areas where bass are likely to recover and stabilize after the environmental shock. Understanding these patterns allows anglers to plan their strategy accordingly, maximizing their chances of a successful catch. Regularly checking weather forecasts and understanding the timing of the front can help in planning fishing trips. It’s also essential to note that bass may change their feeding habits after a cold front, requiring anglers to adapt their approach. Keeping detailed records of fishing experiences under various weather conditions can be invaluable for future reference. This meticulous approach to understanding and documenting weather-related behavior patterns can be instrumental in refining fishing strategies.Using a stick-styled worm is the most tried and true ways to catch fish. We have a wide variety of 5-inch Worms to choose from. You can experience our new wacky rigging kit while it’s ON SALE! The WACKY Pack offers our most popular colors and essential tools, featuring 24 high-quality worms in the popular Green Pumpkin, Watermelon Red, and Black & Blue, alongside four precision-crafted Owner Wacky Hooks 1/8oz. If you’re fast enough you might be able to grab the limited-release Pumpkin Spice Worm before it’s completely sold out along with our newest Brown Worm, Electic Chicken Worm, and Goby Wan Worm colors. The high-grade non-salt plastic they’re made from provides positive buoyancy and it even floats underwater! We also just recently released new 6-inch Worms that catch some trophy bass. Charmeleon, Rainbow TRT, Bone, Chocolate Mint, and Fire TGR are all available in 5 and 6-inch. We’ve also recently released new 8-count packs of worms available in Watermelon Red, Black & Blue, and Green Pumpkin. We also offer worms that have the unique ability to shift from one color to another. Each Fresh Worm is scented for complete and total attraction underwater.
In conclusion, fishing during winter cold fronts can be highly effective for bass due to changes in bass behavior and environmental conditions. Anglers who understand and adapt to these changes can significantly increase their catch rates. It requires a combination of strategic planning, observation, and adaptation to the specific conditions presented by the cold front. By focusing on the behavior and preferences of bass during these times, and employing a patient, methodical approach, anglers can turn the challenges posed by winter cold fronts into rewarding fishing opportunities. This approach not only enhances the likelihood of a successful catch but also enriches the overall fishing experience by deepening the angler’s connection with the natural environment and fostering a greater appreciation for the subtleties of bass behavior. Embracing these challenges as opportunities for growth and learning, anglers can continually refine their skills and strategies, leading to even more rewarding experiences on the water. This mindful and informed approach to fishing ensures sustainable practices, contributing positively to the preservation of aquatic ecosystems and future fishing.We have a wide variety of terminal tackle to choose from. For Scorpions, we love to use the Stand-Up Jig because it sits your bait up-right in a defensive stance! The Owner All Purpose Hook is built with an extra-wide gap and is made to accommodate a wide range of soft plastics. Mosquito Hooks work for drop-shotting and are perfectly designed to better accommodate a wide range of soft plastics. The Block Head Jig is perfect for ned rigging the HellaMite with its mushroom-style head that seamlessly matches a wide variety of soft plastics such as lizards and worms. The Shakey Ultrahead can permanently secure baits by inserting the pin in the center and screwing the twist lock coil spring for perfect rigging every time! The Ultrahead Wacky Jig features precise weight positioning and hook orientation for the ultimate wacky presentations. For fast Texas rigging, we use the Bullet-Type Rig which has an attached weight saving you pressure time when fishing cover. The 4x Jungle Flippin Hook is designed for big fish and the toughest conditions. Covering a wide range of soft plastics including worms and other types of creatures.
 



1...106107108...1,384Page 107 of 1,384

Follow Us

The latest

Unified Pros Announces Addition to its Advisory Board, Brett Wetterich

Breaking News 0
Scottsboro, AL (October 9, 2024) – Unified Pros announced...

Phoenix Bass Fishing League Regional Tournament to Visit Watts Bar Lake

Breaking News 0
Rhea County to Host 200 Boaters and Co-anglers from...

Texarkana’s Wright Patman Lake Set for Phoenix Bass Fishing League Regional Tournament

Breaking News 0
200 Qualified Boaters and Strike King Co-anglers Ready to...

© 2023 The Bass Cast. All Rights Reserved.