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Rocky Talkie Opens Applications for 2025 Search & Rescue Awards

Brian Carter
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Rocky Talkie Opens Applications for 2025 Search & Rescue Awards

Rocky Talkie Opens Applications for 2025 Search & Rescue Awards
The backcountry radio brand expands support for U.S. and Canadian Search & Rescue teams through annual grant program

DENVER, Colo. (February 3, 2025) – Rocky Talkie, a leading manufacturer of rugged backcountry communication devices, is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2025 Search & Rescue (SAR) Awards. Open through February 28, 2025, this annual initiative provides critical grants to underfunded SAR teams across the United States and Canada to support their operations and save lives.


Now in its sixth year, the SAR Awards initiative underscores Rocky Talkie’s ongoing commitment to supporting volunteer rescue teams, who play a vital role in outdoor safety. Since its founding in 2019, Rocky Talkie has pledged $2 per radio sold to support SAR teams, with the first official award granted in 2020. To date, the program has provided over $156,000 in grants, helping SAR teams to acquire essential equipment, invest in advanced training and expand their capabilities in the field.


“Search and Rescue teams are the unsung heroes of outdoor adventure,” said Bryce Jones, co-founder of Rocky Talkie. “Their dedication and expertise make the backcountry safer for everyone, and we’re proud to support their lifesaving work through this program. The SAR Awards is our way of giving back to the community and ensuring these teams have the tools they need to succeed.”


For the 2025 grant cycle, Rocky Talkie will award multiple grants across three funding levels:
$5,000 Grants
$10,000 Grants
$25,000 Grants


SAR teams can select the grant level that best aligns with their financial needs when applying. Winners will be selected by a dedicated Selection Committee, ensuring funding reaches teams that will benefit most from additional resources.
How to Apply


The SAR Awards are open to all Search & Rescue teams operating as a non-profit or in partnership with a non-profit that accepts grants or donations to support the SAR team, in the United States or Canada. Applications must be submitted by February 28, 2025. To learn more and apply, visit rockytalkie.com/pages/sar-award.





Jeff Douglas & Hunter Enlow Win CATT Monticello with 5 bass weighing 23.49 lbs!

Brian Carter
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Jeff Douglas & Hunter Enlow Win CATT Monticello with 5 bass weighing 23.49 lbs!

Next Lake Monticello Spring Qualifier is Feb 23rd (Sunday)

Tap on this link to view the full schedule!

Jeff Douglas & Hunter Enlow win Monticello with 5 bass weighing 23.49 lbs!

Eric Enlow & Frankie Taylor earned 2nd with 5 bass weighing 18.54 lbs!

TeamBFWeightWinningsPoints
Jeff Douglas – Hunter Enlow5.1723.49$505.00110
Eric Enlow – Frankie Taylor4.1118.54$150.00109
Stacey James – Cheyanne James4.5318.04108
TJ Ford – Carl Black5.5817.89$60.00107
Britt Myers Jr4.3116.54106
Baylor Moore – Chance Smith4.2314.77105
Travis Robinson – Randy Rose3.6413.09104
James Schneider – David Schneider4.1913.04103
Brogan Moore – Justin Kanute3.5410.22102
Jeffrey Mayers0.000.0092
Louis Rosborough – Steve Christianson0.000.0092
Charlei Childers0.000.0092
Total Entrys$720.00
BONUS $$$225.00
Total Paid At Ramp$715.00
2025 Monticello Final Fund$25.00
2025 CATT Championship Fund$0.00
2025 Monticello Spring Final Fund$25.00



MLF Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats Southern Division Set to Open Season on Lake Okeechobee

Brian Carter
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MLF Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats Southern Division Set to Open Season on Lake Okeechobee

CLEWISTON, Fla. (Feb. 5, 2025) –The Major League Fishing (MLF) Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats is headed back to Lake Okeechobee, Feb. 13-15, for the first event of the 2025 Southern division – the Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats at Lake Okeechobee.

The three-day tournament, hosted by the Hendry County Tourism Development Council, will showcase the region’s top bass-fishing pros and Strike King co-anglers. Competitors will vie for a grand prize of up to $100,000 in the pro division and a new Phoenix 518 Pro boat with a 115-horsepower outboard motor plus $5,000 in the co-angler division.

Lake Okeechobee has faced an unusual winter – a brutally cold start followed by an abrupt warming trend. According to Bass Pro Tour angler Keith Carson of DeBary, Florida, the lake got too warm, too fast, which could lead to some interesting dynamics on the water. Carson said the fish are in spawn mode, and the conditions will create opportunities for big bags. But the lake’s murkier water and slightly higher levels could make finding those fish more challenging.

“The water is kind of dirty. I think it’s a little bit higher,” Carson said. “I think we’ll likely see a lot of guys blind pitching at the reeds. They’re still really going to catch them, though. There was a local tournament last Saturday and first place was 29 pounds, so I think we’re going to see some giants.”

Carson said he expects that forward-facing sonar will play a significant role in the tournament, continuing a trend seen in recent years.

“I used to think that it wasn’t that big of a deal for Florida because our lakes are so different from the lakes up north,” he said. “But, man, after last year, where just about everyone in the top 10 was using it – it’s going to be a big deal.”

When asked what he would have tied on for this event, Carson had a few go-to picks that he suggested.

“I’d definitely be throwing the Berkley Spin Rocket,” he said. “I’d have a black-and-blue Berkley swimjig tied on, with a MaxScent Meaty Chunk trailer – that would also be really good. And I think an old-school spinnerbait could be a player in this one, especially if a guy can get on a shad spawn.”

Anglers will begin each day at 7 a.m. ET, launching from Roland & Mary Ann Martin’s Marina & Resort, located at 920 E. Del Monte Ave. in Clewiston. Weigh-ins will take place at the marina, starting at 3 p.m. daily. Fans are invited to attend in person and can also stay connected by following the “MLF Live” weigh-in broadcasts and daily updates on MajorLeagueFishing.com.

In Toyota Series regular-season competition, payouts are based on the number of participants competing in the event, scaling up for every 20 boats over 160 and scaling down for every boat below 160. With a 160-boat field, pros fish for a top prize of up to $75,000, if Phoenix MLF Bonus qualified. Strike King co-anglers cast for the top prize of a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard (valued at $33,500). With a 260-boat field, pros fish for a top award of up to $100,000, if Phoenix MLF Bonus qualified. Strike King co-anglers cast for the top prize of a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard plus $5,000 cash.

The 2025 Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats consists of five divisions – Central, Northern, Plains, Southern and the Southwestern – each holding three regular-season events, along with the International and Wild Card divisions. Anglers who fish in any of the five divisions or the Wild Card division and finish in the top 25 will qualify for the no-entry-fee Toyota Series Championship for a shot at winning up to $235,000 and a qualification to REDCREST 2026. The winning Strike King co-angler at the championship earns a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower outboard. The 2025 Toyota Series Championship will be held Nov. 6-8 on Grand Lake in Grove, Oklahoma, and is hosted by the City of Grove Convention & Tourism Bureau.

Proud sponsors of the 2025 MLF Toyota Series include: 7Brew, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, BUBBA, Deep Dive App, E3 Sports Apparel, Epic Baits, Fishing Clash, Grizzly, Humminbird, Lew’s, Mercury, Minn Kota, Mossy Oak, Onyx, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Phoenix Boats, Polaris, Power-Pole, Precision Sonar, Strike King, Suzuki Marine, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, Vosker, WIX Filters and YETI.

For complete details and updated information visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular Toyota Series updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the MLF5 social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.





The Bassmaster Classic returns to Knoxville for 2026

Brian Carter
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The Bassmaster Classic returns to Knoxville for 2026

Knoxville, Tenn., will host the 2026 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour March 13-15, 2026.

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

February 5, 2025

The Bassmaster Classic returns to Knoxville for 2026

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The Super Bowl of Bass Fishing is making its way back to one of the most electrifying destinations in the sport. B.A.S.S. officials announced today that the 2026 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour will return to Knoxville, Tenn., for the third time on March 13-15, 2026.

With competition set on the Tennessee River’s Fort Loudoun and Tellico lakes, daily weigh-ins will take place at the University of Tennessee’s Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center in downtown Knoxville. The Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo presented by GSM Outdoors, featuring more than 200 exhibitors, will be held at the Knoxville Convention Center and World’s Fair Exhibition Hall, offering over 250,000 square feet of event space. Visit Knoxville will once again serve as the event’s host.

“We are thrilled to return to the site of two of our most successful Classics in history,” said B.A.S.S. CEO Chase Anderson. “East Tennessee fully embraces the Classic for what it truly is — a celebration of the sport of bass fishing. The fan experience in Knoxville is second to none, with all event venues within walking distance. With our ever-growing global fanbase, we expect the 2026 Classic to be even bigger and more exciting.”

The 2026 Bassmaster Classic will feature 58 of the world’s top bass anglers, who will earn their spots through the Bassmaster Elite Series, St. Croix Bassmaster Opens presented by SEVIIN, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Championship presented by Lowrance, Bassmaster College Classic Bracket presented by Lew’s and the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Team Championship. These elite competitors will battle for a $300,000 first-place prize and a total purse of over $850,000.

Knoxville has become a premier destination for the Bassmaster Classic, drawing record-breaking crowds and delivering significant economic benefits.

“This will be the third Bassmaster Classic we bring to Knoxville, which speaks to the perfect combination of our strong partnership and the exceptional experience our city provides,” said Chad Culver, senior director of the Visit Knoxville Sports Commission and Convention Sales.

The 2023 Bassmaster Classic set a new attendance record with 163,914 fans, generating an economic impact of $35.5 million for Knoxville and east Tennessee. Additionally, the event generated $2.85 million in state and local tax revenue, with attendees booking 31,525 hotel room nights across Knox County. The Classic also supported 12,698 jobs throughout the event. The Classic celebration continued when B.A.S.S. was honored as the Best Professional Event at the 2023 SportsTravel Awards.

“Knoxville shines during major events like the Bassmaster Classic,” said Kim Bumpas, president of Visit Knoxville. “Both the anglers and fans enjoy an unmatched experience, from the Tennessee River to the world-class venues hosting events throughout Classic weekend. We are excited to welcome everyone back in 2026.”

Fort Loudoun and Tellico lakes, covering approximately 30,000 acres, will once again provide anglers with a dynamic and competitive fishery. Competitors will also have access to waters upstream from Fort Loudoun Dam, extending to the Interstate 40 bridge on the Holston River and the Highway 168 bridge on the French Broad River.

Elite Series angler Jeff Gustafson knows the potential of these waters well. In 2023, he secured victory at the Bassmaster Classic by landing 42 pounds, 7 ounces of bass, becoming the first Canadian angler to win the championship and taking home the coveted Ray Scott Trophy and the $300,000 prize.

Daily takeoffs will take place at Volunteer Landing, where more than 15,000 fans gathered in 2023 to watch the world’s best bass anglers embark on their quest for Classic glory.

“B.A.S.S. is extremely excited to return to Knoxville for the 2026 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour,” said Chris Bowes, B.A.S.S. vice president of tournaments. “This event should be just as competitive as past Classics on Fort Loudoun and Tellico lakes.

“We expect to see all three black bass species cross the weigh-in scales, and with such a versatile fishery, competitors will be able to play to their strengths,” Bowes added. “One thing that won’t change is the breathtaking backdrop of Knoxville and the convenience of its world-class venues for both anglers and fans.”





How to Read Contour Maps to Locate Likely Pre-Spawn Gathering Spots

Brian Carter
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How to Read Contour Maps to Locate Likely Pre-Spawn Gathering Spots

How to Read Contour Maps to Locate Likely Pre-Spawn Gathering Spots

Learning to read contour maps could be your secret weapon if you’ve ever struggled to find bass during early spring. Before bass spawn (lay eggs), they gather in specific areas as they transition from deep winter habitats to shallow spawning grounds. Contour maps, which show underwater depth changes, help you pinpoint these pre-spawn hotspots. Here’s how to decode them like a pro.

Contour Maps 101: The Basics

Contour maps use wavy lines to represent depth. Each line marks a specific depth, like 10 feet, 20 feet, and so on. The spacing between lines tells you how steep or flat the bottom is:

  • Close lines = steep drop-offs (think: underwater cliffs).
  • Wide-spaced lines = gentle, gradual slopes (like a ramp).

Bass follow these slopes as “highways” during their pre-spawn migration. Your job is to find the routes that connect deep water to shallow spawning zones.

Key Features to Look For

  1. Points and Underwater Ridges
    Points are stretches of land that stick out into the water. On a map, they look like a “V” or “U” shape pointing toward deeper water. These act like bass highways—fish pause here to ambush prey while moving toward shallow areas.
  2. Drop-Offs and Ledges
    Sudden depth changes (tightly packed contour lines) near flats or channels are prime staging areas. Bass rest here before moving up to spawn, staying close to deep water for safety.
  3. Flats Near Deep Water
    Wide, shallow areas (shown by broad, spaced-out contour lines) near channels or ditches are likely spawning zones. Look for “pathways” (like a creek channel) connecting these flats to deeper water.
  4. Creek Channels
    These winding paths, marked by consistent depth changes, act as migration routes. Bass use them to travel from deep winter spots to shallow areas.
  5. Humps and Underwater Islands
    Circular contour lines in the middle of deep water mark underwater hills. These are perfect rest stops for bass moving toward shore.

Step-by-Step: Finding Pre-Spawn Hotspots

  1. Start with the Deep Water
    Locate the deepest parts of the lake (usually near dams or river channels). These are winter hangouts.
  2. Follow the Contour Lines
    Track gradual slopes (wide-spaced lines) leading from deep zones to shallows. Avoid steep cliffs—bass prefer energy-saving routes.
  3. Identify Transition Zones
    Look for points, ledges, or humps along these slopes. These are rest areas where bass pause before spawning.
  4. Target Shallow Flats with Access to Deep Water
    Focus on flats near ditches, channels, or drop-offs. Bass spawn here but stay close to escape routes.

Pro Tips

  • Use Detailed Maps: Opt for maps with 5-10 ft depth intervals for better accuracy.
  • Timing Matters: Pre-spawn happens when water temperatures hit 50-60°F. Fish deeper early spring, then move shallow as temps rise.
  • Double-Check with Electronics: Use a fish finder to confirm depth and structure once you’re on the water.

Final Word
Reading contour maps isn’t just about lines—it’s about thinking like a fish. By connecting deep water to shallow flats through gradual pathways, you’ll uncover the hidden spots where bass gather before spawning. Grab a map, study the contours, and get ready to hook your personal best! ?





Huk Casts Wider Net with Obviouslee to Drive Growth Among Lifestyle Audiences

Brian Carter
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Huk Casts Wider Net with Obviouslee to Drive Growth Among Lifestyle Audiences

CHARLESTON, S.C. (Feb 4, 2025) – Obviouslee, a full-service, strategic marketing agency, and Certified B Corporation, announced today that it has been selected by Huk as its media relations agency of record to amplify national brand awareness – expanding Huk’s leadership within the fishing industry to broader outdoor and active lifestyle segments. This exciting collaboration further underscores Obviouslee’s presence in the outdoor space coupled with top-tier consumer media expertise.

“Huk was created to stoke adventure-filled lifestyles on and off the water, and we’re thrilled to partner with Obviouslee to broaden national awareness while reaching new audiences,” says Scott Smith, Vice President of Marketing at Huk. “Obviouslee’s longstanding partnerships among fishing and outdoor brands will resonate with our core endemic community as our brand continues to innovate within the angling industry. Combined with the team’s lifestyle media strategy, we’re confident this partnership will fuel exciting growth in new categories while ensuring that Huk remains anchored in our mission.”

Huk delivers innovative performance apparel and footwear to enhance lives centered around the water. The brand’s outdoor-ready styles for men, women, and youth are intentionally designed and technologically focused to maximize movement and comfort for any adventure – from technical fishing outerwear to all-day sun protection and off-water lifestyle. Founded in 2014, Huk is headquartered in Charleston, South Carolina.

“We’re beyond excited to partner with Huk—a brand that’s redefined what it means to live the fishing lifestyle. Their ability to blend performance, style, and passion into their apparel is truly inspiring. We’ve always admired the incredible community they’ve built and the authenticity they bring to everything they do,” said Lee Deas, CEO and founder of Obviouslee. “We’re thrilled to bring our creative energy to this partnership and help tell the next chapter of Huk’s story.”

Founded in 2005, Obviouslee offers full-service marketing including marketing strategy, brand development, event marketing, media relations, digital marketing, social media management, graphic design, media buying, content marketing, and photography/video production. With clients such as Toadfish, Bajio Sunglasses, and Jones Snowboards, Obviouslee has made a name for itself with branding and marketing for products, events, and experiences.

To stay updated on the latest Obviouslee news, visit obviouslee.com, connect on LinkedIn, or follow @obviouslee on Instagram. 

About Obviouslee 

Obviouslee incubates ideas, builds relationships, and delivers real results for causes, brands, and partners we believe in. As a certified B Corporation, we use business as a force for good and, as a female-founded and led marketing agency, we are a proud member of WBENC. Established in 2005 and headquartered in Charleston, SC, our team spans the nation, collaborating on marketing and creative campaigns with clients ranging from emerging entrepreneurs to iconic brands. We are honored to partner with organizations making a difference in the impact, sports and events, and outdoor industries. To learn more, visit obviouslee.com.

About Huk: Marolina Outdoor Inc. was founded to bring deep-seated product expertise across all outdoor categories. Our innovative designs and technologically focused products create the foundation of our authentic outdoor apparel. Huk clothing represents a fresh take and a unique understanding of angling needs, offering functional styles that appeal to anglers of all ages. Huk is motivated to provide quality apparel so anglers can maximize their fishing adventures and provide quality comfort and style regardless of the size of the fish or where their pursuit leads them. For more information, please visit huk.com.





Chad & Brooks Crosby Win CATT Santee Cooper, SC Feb 1, 2025

Brian Carter
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Chad & Brooks Crosby Win CATT Santee Cooper, SC Feb 1, 2025

Next up is the 2nd Santee Cooper Spring Qualifier Feb 8 at John C Land. This is a GOLD Qualifier $120 entry or $130 at the ramp! Come join us! The bass are bitin at Santee! Tap on the logo below for more info pertaining to Santee Cooper!

Chad Crosby & Brooks Crosby weighed a FAT SACK down on the Santee Cooper Lakes taking the win! 5 bass weighing 27.15 lbs! Great Job!

James Gibbons claimed 2nd with a limit weighing 27.04 lbs!

Mac Altman & Randall Miller weighed in the BF at 7.88 lbs!

TeamBFWeightWinningsPoints
Chad Crosby – Brooks Crosby6.4027.15$690.00110
James Gibbons0.0027.04$585.00109
Wesley Barrineau – Randall Barrineau6.6826.97108
Mac Altman – Randall Miller7.8821.89$150.00107
Bennett Lawshe – Casey Warren0.0021.68106
Corey Casey0.0020.55105
Jay McCutchen – Jamie Partee0.0018.90104
Dusty Hardy – Gunner Bowen0.0017.38103
Brent Riley – Nathan Burgess0.0014.38102
Patrick Oliver – Jonathan Gowdy0.0013.85101
Todd Olds – John Koonce0.000.0090
Jason Smith0.000.0090
Jason Morse0.000.0090
Jay Jefferies – Carter Jeffries0.000.000
Steve Borton0.000.000
Total Entrys$1,200.00
BONUS $$625.00
Total Paid At Ramp$1,425.00
2025 Santee Cooper Spring Final Total$300.00
CATT$50.00
2025 CATT Championship Fund$50.00
2025 Santee Cooper Spring Final Total$300.00





Look Sharp While Fishing TATULA

Brian Carter
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Look Sharp While Fishing TATULA
Look Sharp While Fishing TATULA
Buy Any TATULA Rod or Reel and Get a FREE DAIWA / AFTCO Hooded Performance Shirt
FOOTHILL RANCH, CA (February 4, 2025) – For over a decade, anglers have required no added incentive to fish DAIWA’s TATULA branded rods and reels. The fantastic performance at a fair price is motivation enough.So why the 2025 TATULA promotion? It’s really a reward for loyalty as anglers add to their collection. Beginning February 1, 2025, anglers purchasing any TATULA rod, reel, or combo can register to receive a FREE TATULA branded AFTCO hooded performance shirt.AFTCO’s lightweight, technical hooded performance shirt feels smooth and stretches with each cast, while wicking moisture away from the skin to keep you comfortable in hot weather. The hood is constructed to comfortably protect your ears, neck, and back of your head from the sun.Qualify with the purchase of any DAIWA TATULA reel, rod or combo between February 1, 2025, and May 31, 2025 (NO EXCEPTIONS). US and Canadian residents only. Visit DAIWA website for details and redemption instructions
NEW TATULA GEAR TO CONSIDER
TATULA SV 100This refreshed version of the TATULA SV 100 is laden with upgrades, most notably the groundbreaking SV BOOST System. It employs a proprietary spool and paired technology that lets a novice angler cast like a pro. First, backlash is virtually eliminated as the spool self-manages resistance throughout the duration of a cast. Spool speed is controlled at the start of a cast – where backlash typically happens – and relinquishes resistance progressively as the bait flies. SV BOOST also amplifies casting distance and provides optimal cast control. Other significant features include DAIWA’s HYPERDRIVE SYSTEM, T-Wing System and Ultimate Tournament Drag (UTD). MSRP $219.99
TATULA SV TW 150The new TATULA SV TW 150 is geared for the power-fishing crowd, introducing them to SV spool technology and HYPERDRIVE DESIGN in a mid-priced baitcaster. The upsized reel casts and controls bigger baits like swimbaits, deep crankbaits, bladebaits, and smaller A-rigs. Energized by SV (Stress-Free, Versatile), the TATULA SV TW 150 yields the ultimate castability with a heavier line. Bassers who spool 50- and 60-pound braid will notice the improved casting distance compared to their current reels. The spool is sized to accommodate more and heavier line, too. Beyond providing a jolt to casting distance, SV technology virtually eliminates backlash. The TATULA SV TW 150’s feature-set includes HYPERDRIVE DESIGN, consisting of the HYPERDRIVE ARMED HOUSING, HYPERDRIVE DIGIGEAR, HYPERDRICE DOUBLE SUPPORT, and HYPERDRIVE TOUGH CLUTCH. In summary, DAIWA’s new TATULA SV TW 150 is a powerhouse baitcasting reel that minimizes backlash, casts for distance with control, and will be welcomed by new and experienced anglers alike.MSRP $219.99
For Daiwa’s latest color catalog and/or information on Daiwa dealers in your area, call Daiwa’s Customer Service Department at 562-375-6800 or e-mail inquiries to: [email protected]. The URL for Daiwa’s web site is daiwa.us.





Harris Chain of Lakes Set for MLF Bass Pro Tour Suzuki Stage 2 Presented by YETI

Brian Carter
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Harris Chain of Lakes Set for MLF Bass Pro Tour Suzuki Stage 2 Presented by YETI

66 Anglers to Compete Next Week for $150,000 Top Prize in Leesburg, Follow the Action Live All Four Days at MajorLeagueFishing.com

LEESBURG, Fla. (Feb. 4, 2025) – The Major League Fishing (MLF) Bass Pro Tour continues its action-packed 2025 season next week, Feb. 13-16, with Suzuki Stage 2 at the Harris Chain of Lakes Presented by YETI, in Leesburg, Florida. Hosted by Discover Lake County Florida, the four-day tournament will feature 66 of the world’s top professional anglers competing for a $150,000 top prize, crucial points in the Fishing Clash Angler of the Year (AOY) race and coveted qualification spots for the Heavy Hitters all-star event and REDCREST 2026.

The star-studded field will feature top pros and local favorites, including reigning Fishing Clash AOY Jacob Wheeler, REDCREST 2024 Champion Dustin Connell and defending Harris Chain champion Ott DeFoe, as well as Florida favorites Keith Carson , Bobby Lane and Terry Scroggins , looking to leverage their local knowledge.

The tournament will feature the MLF catch, weigh, immediate-release format, in which anglers catch as much weight as they can each day, while also feeling the pressure and intensity of the SCORETRACKER® leaderboard. The tournament is being filmed for broadcast later this year on Discovery.

“We are thrilled to welcome Major League Fishing’s 2025 Bass Pro Tour to Lake County, Florida,” said Ryan Ritchie, Director of Discover Lake County, Florida. “This event showcases our world-class fisheries and reinforces our reputation as a premier destination for competitive fishing. A huge thank you to our partners at the City of Leesburg and the Greater Orlando Sports Commission for their collaboration in making this event possible.”

“Hosting the Major League Fishing 2025 Bass Pro Tour is an exciting opportunity for Lake County to shine on the national stage,” said Kirby Smith, Lake County Commissioner. “Our lakes, our community and our hospitality make this the perfect setting for anglers and fans alike. We greatly appreciate the support of the City of Leesburg and the Greater Orlando Sports Commission in bringing this prestigious event to our area.”

The last time the Bass Pro Tour visited the Harris Chain of Lakes was in 2021, where Tennessee’s DeFoe claimed victory, capitalizing on the shad spawn early in the day before transitioning to offshore cranking. This year, it seems anglers will face very different conditions, as Florida’s warm weather has accelerated the spawn, creating a dynamic playing field.

Lane, a Lakeland, Florida native, finished second to DeFoe in 2021, and said he is eager for another shot at the title.

“The last time the Bass Pro Tour was here was in May, and the fish were everywhere,” said Lane. “This time, it’ll be different. It’s earlier in the year, but we’re transitioning big time. Florida has gone from a brutal winter – culminated by two weeks in a row of miserably cold weather – to three weeks of brutal heat. It’s basically summertime now, so we’ll see fish in all three stages of the spawn throughout the event and there’s plenty of vegetation in almost every lake now.”

Lane predicts winning weights will range between 30 to 45 pounds on the final day, with anglers needing around 60 to 70 pounds over the first two days to advance to the Knockout Round. He also said he expects a variety of techniques to come into play.

“I think we’ll see guys throwing ChatterBaits, swim worms, flipping sticks, crankbaits, frogs, drop-shot rigs, shaky heads and topwater baits,” said Lane. “I think it’s all going to work. I don’t think one guy is going to be able to light it on fire in one spot. I think he’s going to have to cover a lot of water.”

Lane said a key strategic challenge will be the Harris Chain locking system. Anglers choosing to lock into Apopka or Griffin could lose valuable fishing time, making decisions on location critical.

“There’s a risk in locking,” Lane explained. “If Harris, Eustis or Dora are fishing good in the morning, there’s no way a guy locking in is going to catch up. It’s kind of a puzzle, and we’ve got to figure out how to put the puzzle together.”

Unlike the B&W Trailer Hitches Stage 1 at Lake Conroe event, where forward-facing sonar played a dominant role in the first period, Lane believes its impact on the Harris Chain will be more limited.

“There will definitely be fish caught on forward-facing sonar, but I don’t see it being as big of a factor as it was in Texas,” Lane noted. “This event is going to have a lot more diversity in techniques.”

Anglers will launch at 7:15 a.m. ET each day from the Venetian Gardens, located at 201 E. Lake Harris Drive in Leesburg. Each day’s takeout will be held at the same location, beginning at 3:45 p.m. Fans are welcome to attend all launch and takeout events and also encouraged to follow the event online throughout the day on the MLFNOW!® live stream and SCORETRACKER® coverage at  MajorLeagueFishing.com.

In conjunction with the tournament, on Wednesday, Feb. 12, Bass Pro Tour pros competing in the event will be at Bass Pro Shops Orlando, located at 5156 International Drive in Orlando, from noon to 2 p.m., meeting with fans and signing autographs.

On Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 15-16, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. MLF welcomes fans of all ages to visit the Venetian Gardens for the MLF Fan Experience & Watch Party. Fans can watch the pros live on the MLFNOW! big screen, enjoy free food, enter to win hourly giveaways, listen to live music and cheer on their favorite pros. The first 50 kids 14 and under will receive a free rod and reel each day. The Bass Pro Tour anglers will be on hand both days to meet and greet fans, sign autographs and take selfies.

The Suzuki Stage 2 at the Harris Chain of Lakes Presented by YETI will feature anglers competing with a 1-pound, 8-ounce minimum weight requirement for a bass to be deemed scorable. The MLF Fisheries Management Division determines minimum weights for each body of water that the Bass Pro Tour visits, based on the productivity, bass population and anticipated average size of fish in each fishery.

The 2025 Bass Pro Tour features a field of 66 of the top professional anglers in the world, competing across seven regular-season tournaments around the country, for millions of dollars and valuable points to qualify for the annual Heavy Hitters all-star event and the REDCREST 2026 championship.

The full field of anglers will compete in the two-day Qualifying Round on Thursday and Friday. After the two-day Qualifying Round is complete, the pro with the highest two-day total will advance directly to Sunday’s Championship Round. Anglers that finish 2nd through 20th will advance to Saturday’s Knockout Round. In the Knockout Round, weights are zeroed, and the remaining anglers compete to finish in the top nine to advance to Sunday’s Championship Round. In the final-day Championship Round, weights are zeroed, and the highest one-day total wins the top prize of $150,000.

The MLFNOW!® broadcast team of Chad McKee and J.T. Kenney will break down the extended action live on all four days of competition from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET. MLFNOW!®  will be live streamed on MajorLeagueFishing.com , the MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) app and Rumble.

Television coverage of the Suzuki Stage 2 at the Harris Chain of Lakes Presented by YETI will premiere as a two-hour episode starting at 7 a.m. ET, on Saturday, Sept. 13 on Discovery, with the Championship Round premiering the following Saturday on Sept. 20. New MLF episodes premiere each Saturday morning on Discovery, with re-airings on Outdoor Channel.

Proud sponsors of the 2025 MLF Bass Pro Tour include: 7Brew Coffee, Abu Garcia, Athletic Brewing, Bass Force, B&W Trailer Hitches, Bass Pro Shops, Berkley, BUBBA, E3 Sport Apparel, Fishing Clash, Grizzly, Lowrance, Mercury, MillerTech, Mossy Oak Fishing, NITRO, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Power-Pole, Rapala, Star brite, Suzuki and Toyota.

For complete details and updated information on Major League Fishing and the Bass Pro Tour, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF’s social media outlets at Facebook, X,  Instagram and YouTube.






Jason Snyder Wins CATT Lake Greenwood, SC Feb 1, 2025

Brian Carter
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Jason Snyder Wins CATT Lake Greenwood, SC Feb 1, 2025

Next up will be the 2nd Greenwood Spring Qualifier on Feb 22 at Buzzards Roost!

Jason Snyder took 1st Place at Lake Greenwood with a 5bass limit weighing 21.89 lbs! Jason also weighed in the BF at 6.06 lbs!

TeamBFWeightWinningsPoints
Jason Snyder6.0621.89$600.00110
Chris Blackwell – Chad Barbare4.7818.21$150.00109
Anthony Kiker – Truett Hill4.6217.00108
Chase Stewart – Andew Allen4.3116.21107
Cade Blackwell – Micthell Robinson5.6114.45106
Tanner Smith – Chris Faulkner4.6212.41105
Chandler Ellis4.308.92104
Kaleb Taylor0.000.0094
Ryan Franklin – Graham Price0.000.0094
Mike Underwood – Taryn Underwood0.000.0094
Total Entrys$900.00
BONUS $$200.00
Total Paid At Ramp$750.00
CATT$50.00
2025 Greenwood Spring Final Fund$250.00
2025 CATT Championship Fund$50.00
2025 Greenwood Spring Final Total$250.00





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