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Chad & Elliot Pilson Win SML Bass Cast Tourney with 20.61lbs

Brian Carter
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Chad & Elliot Pilson Win SML Bass Cast Tourney with 20.61lbs

November 19, 2023

Smith Mountain Lake, VA – Wrapping up the final regular season event of the Bass Cast Tourney on Smith Mountain Lake was a chilly adventure for the 22 teams that took on the challenge. Despite a cold start, the competition was as hot as ever but the fishing was not.

Chad and Elliot Pilson stole the show again, proving their angling skills by winning the day with a total catch just 1.45lbs heavier than the second-place team, Ryan and Wayne Mace, who pulled in an impressive 19.16lbs of fish. Mike Nichols and Mark Winn secured the third spot with 17.47lbs, and rounding out the top contenders were Shawn Holland and Lenny Wallace with 15.22lbs.

A special shout-out goes to the father-son team of Mike and Zack Lemaster, who snagged the “on the bubble” position and walked away with two 6″ 6th Sense TRACE Swimbaits as their prize.

As the regular season wraps up, the Bass Cast Tourney team sends appreciation to everyone who contributed to making it a success. Looking ahead, they’re excited about the championship and can’t wait to see the familiar faces of teams that participated in at least three events in 2023. By the way everyone the pot is sitting at $1,000.

Congrats to the winners, and here’s to more exciting bass fishing on Smith Mountain Lake in the seasons to come!

Click Here to See Results

Click Here to See Final Standings

A special thank you to our on the bubble giveaway sponsor



Johnny Mayer & Chris Epting Win CATT Lake Murray, SC Nov 11, 2023

Brian Carter
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Johnny Mayer & Chris Epting Win CATT Lake Murray, SC Nov 11, 2023

Next Lake Murray Fall CATT Qualifier is Nov 18th at Dreher Island State Park!

Chris Epting & Johnny Mayer win Murray with 5 bass weighing 19.99 lbs!

Roger Mckee & Jason Ries 2nd with 17.66 lbs!

Darryl Starkey & Garrett Starkey with a nice sack!

TeamBFWeightWinningsPoints
Johnny Mayer – Chris Epting4.8119.99$1,090.00110
Jason Ries – Roger Mckee4.7417.66$200.00109
Tim Huffstetler – Neal Huffstetler5.1617.05$98.00108
Darryl Starkey – Garrett Starkey4.4016.37107
Hampton Anderson – Tyson Alvanos4.9615.19$42.00106
Hans Cansler – Jon Holsenback4.7911.66105
Wayne Jeffcoat – Kevin Banks3.2211.59104
Ryan Raley4.587.97103
Jeremy Medlock – Hunter Enlow0.003.53102
Don Burnett – Rob Osborne0.000.0092
Jody Wright – Jay Wright0.000.0092
Josiah Gaza – Jonathan Wolverton0.000.0092
Matt Mollohan0.000.0092
Michael Smith0.000.0092
Total Entrys$1,120.00
BONUS $$650.00
Total Paid At Ramp$1,430.00
Murray 2023 Fall Final Fund$240.00
CATT$50.00
2024 CATT Championship Fund$50.00
2023 Murray Fall Final Total$460.00

Phenomenal fishing opportunities provide backdrop for 2023 NPAA Conference.

Brian Carter
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Phenomenal fishing opportunities provide backdrop for 2023 NPAA Conference.
World Class Fishing Awaits 
Phenomenal fishing opportunities provide backdrop for 2023 NPAA Conference.
Forestville, WI (November 17, 2023) – The upcoming 2024 “Passion to Profession” NPAA Conference in Fort Myers, Florida, January 5 – 7, 2024, will not only provide attendees with incredible career-building, educational and networking opportunities, the location couldn’t be better for nearby inshore saltwater and freshwater fishing.There are opportunities before the conference begins each day and after it closes to hit shore access spots where anglers like St. Croix Rod’s Marketing Director and NPAA Corporate Partner, Jesse Simpkins, says he had “one of the finest days of snook fishing ever”—and less than an hour’s drive from last winter’s conference.Pat Neu, NPAA President commented: “The opportunity to take advantage of Southwest Florida’s fishing opportunities and beautiful beaches was a key factor in choosing our conference location. If you have never visited Southwest Florida, you owe it to yourself to make this week a family event.”NEARBY FISHING OPPORTUNITIESFor more information on where to fish within a short drive (or walk) from the NPAA Conference, reach out to the folks at local bait/tackle dealers like Master Bait and Tackle right on Bonita Drive—recommended by local guide and NPAA member, Captain Debbie Hanson. Tell them you’re attending the NPAA conference, stop in and buy some bait and local lures, and chances are they’ll give you the scoop on easy-access, bridge, beach, and canal bites, including mangrove snapper, seatrout, and the occasional snook or redfish.But there are charter and guided options available, too, especially if you book soon—with fellow, well-known NPAA members! 
Florida-Strain Largemouth Bass & Peacock Bass with Captain Debbie HansonNPAA member Captain Debbie Hanson is an award-winning outdoor writer, local radio host, freshwater guide, and owner of SheFishes2 Guide Service, living in Estero, Florida. Debbie’s fishing articles have appeared in publications including Florida Game & Fish, Boat US, USA Today Hunt & Fish, and Gulfshore Life. She is also a weekly blogger and content-producer for TakeMeFishing.org. Additionally, Hanson has appeared on countless nationally-televised saltwater and freshwater fishing shows.Captain Debbie also serves on the board of Fish Florida, a non-profit organization which helps people—especially children—learn about fishing and Florida’s environment via proceeds from the sale of the state’s specialty sailfish auto license plate.Captain Debbie excels at putting clients on freshwater fish on the lakes and canals of Southwest Florida, whether that’s big Florida-strain largemouth bass, bluegills, or peacock bass. If interested, she also offers fly fishing trips. Debbie is a USCG licensed captain.“There are two primary freshwater bites during January that I focus on,” says Captain Debbie. “We either trailer down to Naples for peacock bass or up to Cape Coral canal system for largemouth bass—both on conventional or fly tackle.”“I specialize in running half-day trips,” says Captain Debbie. “And in four hours we typically catch lots of fish, starting around 7:30 a.m. and returning to the dock at 11:30.”
Deep Everglades/10,000 Islands Action with Captain Ray Van HornNPAA member Captain Ray Van Horn is a longtime TV fishing personality, champion guide, and consultant to several top fishing and boating manufacturers, and ambassador for Florida’s awesome West Coast angling opportunities. Fishing for tarpon, snook, and redfish from Chokoloskee to Cedar Key, and spending lots of time in Boca Grande, Captain Ray will show you how he catches the big ones and can help make your own fishing trip a Florida vacation to treasure.The tarpon is the ultimate light tackle fish. Ray fishes for tarpon with both fly and conventional tackle. At Boca Grande pass, fishermen are usually fishing either live bait and drifting or fishing jigs on conventional tackle.Anglers who book a trip with Captain Ray can expect a true fishing adventure of a lifetime.“We take people back into the deepest parts of the Everglades, places that only Google Earth has been to, quite frankly,” notes Captain Ray. “We typically arrive early in the morning and these areas are full of fish—everything from “juvenile” tarpon reaching 50 pounds and snook to 20-pounds, as well as redfish and seatrout.”Specializing in artificial plug and fly techniques, Captain Ray says he especially enjoys the teaching aspect of his profession, turning non-anglers into lifelong enthusiasts.“We can take someone who has never picked up a rod in their life and they can be productive in this environment because the fish don’t get any pressure. And you won’t see the part of the Everglades we fish in any Chamber of Commerce videos; we take the road less traveled. It makes for great fishing and a picturesque experience, too,” concludes Captain Ray.
Inshore Action with Captain John Campbell NPAA member and Iowa native veteran walleye pro and fishing educator, Captain John Campbell, competed at the highest level of walleye tournament fishing for nearly three decades. He has lectured at hundreds of outdoors sports shows and conventions over his career as well appearing on countless TV and radio shows along the way. While guiding during spring and summer months in Iowa, Captain John spends winters putting clients on fish in the Marco Island, Florida, 10,000 Islands region chasing snook, redfish, and seatrout on the area’s inshore waters. “For NPAA members visiting the upcoming convention in January, we could be on good, fishable water in 45 minutes,” notes Captain John. “During that time in January, there will be exceptional fishing for snook, redfish, and seatrout, which we can catch casting swimbaits or jigs.”“What’s great about the 10,000 Islands region is there are lots of islands, bays, and some great scenery,” adds Captain John. “My approach is typically to pitch shorelines, which provides a lot of action and consistently puts fish in the boat.”Book a half- or full-day guided fishing trip with Captain John via (239) 860-0976.
Plan to arrive to the conference early and stay after it ends. Worried about the additional expense? Don’t be. The NPAA has secured the special room rate of $169/night (double occupancy) at the 5 Star-rated Gulf Coast Crowne Plaza in Fort Myers, Florida, also home to the entire conference. The room rate is available for three days on either side of the event (pending availability), so come early and stay late to enjoy the beautiful Southwest Florida weather, world class fishing, and some of the best beaches in the country.Airfare rates have also dropped significantly in recent months and the hotel is only 5 minutes from the Southwest Florida Regional Airport (RSW). Book your airline tickets now to receive the lowest rates and don’t forget to try specialty airlines like Sun Country, Frontier, and Allegiant for airfares as low as $300 roundtrip.BECOME AN NPAA MEMBER TODAYBecome an NPAA member if you aren’t already—and pre-register now to attend the 2024 “Passion to Profession” NPAA Conference in Ft. Myers, Florida, January 5 – 7, 2024.The 1,400-member non-profit sportfishing trade association, NPAA, is asking guides, captains, tournament anglers, industry reps, sales/marketing professionals, entrepreneurs, educators and other recreational fishing professionals to join its cause, reaping the rewards of a united front and becoming part of a support organization that exists to benefit its members and partners.
JOIN NPAA!



Former Classic champion David Fritts announces retirement from B.A.S.S.

Brian Carter
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Former Classic champion David Fritts announces retirement from B.A.S.S.

Former Bassmaster Angler of the Year and Bassmaster Classic champion David Fritts of Lexington, N.C., has announced his retirement. 

Photos by B.A.S.S.

November 17, 2023

Former Classic champion David Fritts announces retirement from B.A.S.S.

Fritts_David.jpg

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — After a career that spanned parts of five decades, decorated professional angler David Fritts of Lexington, N.C., has announced his retirement from B.A.S.S. The 1993 Bassmaster Classic champion and 1994 Bassmaster Angler of the Year said his declining health and the rigors of the various B.A.S.S. schedules were the major factors in his decision.

“I had COVID-19 in 2021, and I still have what they call ‘long COVID,’” Fritts said. “I still can’t smell anything. I never got all of my energy back, and it sort of messed my heart up a little bit. My bones and my joints still work pretty well, but I just don’t quite have the stamina or energy I used to have.”

Though Fritts said he may still explore a less rigorous schedule, he doesn’t think he has it left in him to pursue the Bassmaster Elite Series or the St. Croix Bassmaster Opens.

That puts a cap on a star-studded career that began with the 1986 Georgia Invitational on West Point Lake and ended with the 2023 Elite Series event on the St. Lawrence River. Between those dates, he became one of the few anglers to win a Classic, an AOY title and the FLW Tour’s Forrest Wood Cup.

“Winning the Bassmaster Classic makes your career, and to follow up with the AOY in 1994 was really something special,” said Fritts, who had five victories and earned more than $1 million with B.A.S.S. “Winning the Forrest Wood Cup in 1997 was also a really big moment for me. All of those things were big stepping stones and building blocks for my career.”

After winning the 1993 Classic on Alabama’s Logan Martin Lake and then winning AOY the next year, Fritts came within 7 ounces of winning the Classic again at Logan Martin in 1997. He said that’s the one near miss that haunts him the most.

“I had my hands on the winning fish twice and watched it slip away,” he said. “For me, that tournament will always be like the 200-inch deer I shot and never found. I only think about it every two days or so.”

Besides his many victories on the water, Fritts, who is highly regarded as one of the best crankbait anglers of all time, had a major hand in designing some of the most popular crankbaits ever brought to market. His work included models for Poe’s Crankbaits during the 1980s, the mega-popular DT Series for Rapala and nearly every model of hard bait produced by Berkley, including the highly regarded Frittside.

“I like to think my work has helped a lot of fishermen,” he said. “The younger generation probably knows me more for the Frittside than they do for anything else — and that’s fine by me. That’s a bait that will literally catch anything that swims.”

Fritts said he believes he’s better at designing crankbaits than he’s ever been, and he hopes to keep doing that in some capacity. Likewise, he says fishing will always be part of his life.

“Fishing’s been good to me,” he said. “The last 10 years haven’t been great, and the last two have been especially tough. But overall, I’ve been blessed.

“The picture for the lock screen on my phone is me and Ray Scott when I won a B.A.S.S. tournament at Buggs Island. Ray did so much for me and promoted all the fishermen the way we needed to be promoted. Dave Mercer is great at it too. I can’t say enough about B.A.S.S. They made my career for sure.”

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Bobby Clark & Tommy Hughes Win CATT East Roanoke River, NC Nov 11, 2023

Brian Carter
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Bobby Clark & Tommy Hughes Win CATT East Roanoke River, NC Nov 11, 2023

The East Fall Final is Dec 9th! Larry Thomas & Will James win the East Fall Points and will fish the Final Free! If we have 25 boats enter the East Final 1st Place will take home $2,000.00!

1st Bobby Clark Tommy Hughes 14.20 lbs. $525. 2nd big fish 4.46 lbs $69. 1st place side pot $350.

2nd Charles Weathersby 11.95 lbs $300. 1st big fish 5.03 lbs $161. 2nd place side pot $150.

3rd Larry Thomas Will James 11.37 lbs $200.

4th Rinnie Britt Dillon Britt 10m12 lbs $120.

TeamBFWeightWinningsPoints
Bobby Clark – Tommy Hughes4.4614.20$944.00110
Charles Weathersbee5.0311.95$611.00109
Larry Thomas – Will James3.6711.37$200.00108
Ronnie Britt – Dylan Britt0.0010.12$120.00107
Wayne Stallings – Zeb West3.529.79106
Jeff Stoop – Randy Vaughn2.969.56105
Jason Samson0.009.24104
Steve Bishop – Darryl Peele3.609.16103
Allen Hawkins – Cecil Hamilton0.009.12102
Donald Luther & Mike Kannan3.009.07101
Brandon Johnson – Wilbur johnson0.008.67100
Jerry Langley – David Langley3.937.5899
Jerry Hardy – Larry Revel0.007.4698
Jim Hipkins0.007.2597
Kevin Jones – Tyler Jones3.296.4996
John Clark – Bobby Barrett0.005.3895
Mike Layton – Ray Layton0.000.0085
Dickie Killinger – Ryan Killinger0.000.0085
Danny Flynn – Brad Elks0.000.0085
Jim Britt – Bradlkey Gooden0.000.0085
Charles Anderson – Adam Haithcock0.000.0085
Derrick Whitmore0.000.0085
Total Entrys$1,760.00
BONUS $$500.00
Total Paid At Ramp$1,875.00
CATT$50.00
East 2023 Fall Final Fund$285.00
2023 CATT Championship Fund$50.00
2023 East Spring  Fall Fund Total$1,475.00



Glenn Sparrow & Chris Bumgardne Win CATT Lake Wylie, SC Nov 11, 2023

Brian Carter
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Glenn Sparrow & Chris Bumgardne Win CATT Lake Wylie, SC Nov 11, 2023

Next Lake Wylie CATT Fall Qualifier is Nov 18 at Nivens! Come on out and join us!

Glenn Sparrow & Chris Bumgardner win Wylie with 5 bass weighing 17.09 lbs and weighed the BF at 4.85 lbs!

Ron Farrow & Roger Farrow took 2nd Place with 15.33 lbs!

Taylor Bonds & Hunter Hiers claimed 3rd with 13.72 lbs!

TeamBFWeightWinningsPoints
Glenn Sparrow/Chris Bumgardner4.8517.09$975.00110
Ron Farrow/Roger Farrow4.6015.33$280.00109
Hunter Hiers/Taylor Bonds3.7013.72$100.00108
Britt Myers Jr/Mike Stephens3.2412.35107
David Winters/Derek Lilley2.5811.82106
Mike Greene/Rick Rhom2.6910.80105
Jason Cougar/Kim Gray2.4710.71104
Dave Calbert/Bill Carothers2.4410.32103
Kale Steele/Kayden Steele2.1610.21102
Stephen Sparrow/Sawyer Sparrow3.2310.11101
Brian Whitworth2.6610.11100
Ryan Gee/Dan Gee2.149.4199
Jay Adams Jr2.179.2098
Mike Swick2.346.9697
Mike Levans2.186.5296
Joe Floyd/Mike Stone0.000.0086
Christopher Cook/Timmy Boone0.000.0086
Josh Pressley0.000.0086
Total Entrys$1,440.00
BONUS $$350.00
Total Paid At Ramp$1,355.00
Wylie 2023 Fall Final Fund$335.00
CATT$50.00
2024 CATT Championship Fund$50.00
2023 Wylie Fall Final Fund Total$565.00



DAIWA’s latest technology means longer casts and better leveraged fights with big fish.

Brian Carter
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DAIWA’s latest technology means longer casts and better leveraged fights with big fish.
New LEXA Baitcaster Design
DAIWA’s latest technology means longer casts and better leveraged fights with big fish.
FOOTHILL RANCH, CA (November 16, 2023) – Behold the newest design in big fish freshwater and inshore low-profile baitcasting reels, DAIWA’s brilliantly designed LEXA. Having achieved cult-like status with freshwater and inshore big-fish anglers, the long-casting and palmable low-profile baitcaster has been made even better. “We’re proud to offer exactly what anglers have been asking for in the LEXA. It features a new level of palmability, reliable and precise UTD carbon drag, MAGFORCE cast control, Infinite Anti-Reverse, and new EVA handle knobs, which are sure to be a hit with the guys chasing big toothy-critters,” says DAIWA Marketing Manager, Marc Mills. 
“It’s a great reel choice for anything from saltwater to muskie fishing or any application where you need a larger low-profile reel. We’re seeing a lot of opportunities with this reel in Florida where anglers are throwing big swimbaits and bucktails for snook. We’re also seeing it take off on the West Coast for everything from yellowtail to calico bass; even guys fishing bluefin tuna will want it. Then you’ve got your striped bass markets, where the reel fits perfectly,” adds Mills. In a nutshell, as of ICAST 2023, the LEXA is available in two additional sizes—the LX300 and LX400. The newly redesigned LEXA is available with a power handle or a double paddle handle. “We switched to robust EVA knobs for grip and feel, and retained the same aluminum frame and side plate (gear side) design, brass gearing, MAGFORCE Cast Control, Ultimate Tournament Drag (UTD), swept handle with weight-reducing cut-outs, and infinite anti-reverse of its predecessor,” continues Mills. 
In terms of construction, the improved LEXA features an aluminum frame and gear-side plate that keeps all the gears in precise alignment. Speaking of gears and alignment, the new LEXA features a unique gear train that utilizes a hardened brass main gear and pinion gear. DAIWA employs the hardened brass to maintain durability when casting and retrieving heavy lures and high drag pressure that takes the brunt of the pressure. DAIWA’s proven MAGFORCE cast control system is also employed in the new LEXA, allowing the angler to adjust the tension of the spool and castability from the non-handle side of the reel dial with settings that range from zero to twenty. This allows a reduction in backlashes, longer casts in the wind, and better overall control of the reel. The reel also offers Daiwa’s Ultimate Tournament (UTD) system for a maximum of 25 pounds of drag pressure. LEXA is available in right- and left-handed versions in two different gear ratios: 6.3:1 and 7.1:1. Both were designed to meet the needs and expectations of saltwater anglers fishing different presentations. LEXA is the perfect stepping stone in the progression up to a LEXA HD or a LEXA TW. Available in multiple gear ratios—everything from a 5.1:1 to a 7:1.  
FEATURES: Aluminum Frame and Sideplate (Gear Side) MAGFORCE Cast Control Ultimate Tournement Carbon Drag (UTD) Swept Handle w/ Weight-Reducing Cut-Outs Infinite Anti-Reverse EVA Handle Knobs MSRP: $219.99 – $279.99For freshwater and saltwater anglers seeking their next premium, precision long-casting baitcasting reel, look no further than the LEXA LX 300/400, a reel engineered with advanced technology and constructed of the finest and most durable materials available. 
MATCH LEXA TO THE RIGHT RODPerfect for just about any inshore species. From snook, speckled trout, tarpon and cobia in the Gulf and Calico Bass on the west coast, Proteus Inshore Rods have all the right actions. Built with high modulus carbon graphite with DAIWA’s exclusive High Volume Fiber (HVF) low-resin design to make them strong and lightweight.MSRP $189.99
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: CSR@Daiwa.com. The URL for Daiwa’s web site is daiwa.us



Randall Tharp Announces Transition from MLF to Bassmaster Opens

Brian Carter
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Randall Tharp Announces Transition from MLF to Bassmaster Opens

Randal Tharp Announces Transition from MLF to Bassmaster Opens

11.17.23 – Professional angler Randall Tharp, an esteemed veteran of the fishing industry, has recently made a significant decision regarding his competition plans for the upcoming season. Tharp has announced his departure from the Major League Fishing (MLF) Bass Pro Tour and his intention to fish the Bassmaster Opens as an EQ angler in order to requalify for the highly coveted Elite Series and potentially make a triumphant return to a Bassmaster Classic.

Tharp, who has been a prominent figure in professional fishing for 14 years, boasts an impressive track record filled with numerous accomplishments and tournament victories. Throughout his esteemed career, he has secured multiple championship qualifications, including five Forest Wood Cups, five Bassmaster Classics, and four Red Crest appearances. Additionally, he has successfully claimed a spot in every Heavy Hitters event hosted by Major League Fishing since its inception.

With a keen focus on building strong relationships within the fishing industry, Tharp has a deep commitment to representing his valued sponsors, such as ARC Bass Boat Technologies, Yamaha Outboards, Phoenix Boats, and other companies he has been collaborating with throughout his career. Tharp’s decision to transition to the Bassmaster Opens was not simply influenced by a preference for five-fish-limit tournaments or the scoring format; instead, it primarily revolves around how he can best support and promote these partner brands.

Unhappiness on the MLF Bass Pro Tour has been brewing within Tharp for several years, with one of the main issues being the lack of consistency in the tournament format. Over the years, the format has been altered multiple times, occasionally even during events, which Tharp finds unacceptable. Furthermore, Tharp has grown increasingly frustrated with the enforcement, or lack thereof, of rules in MLF tournaments. Witnessing these issues firsthand, he no longer wishes to be associated with them.

Another factor contributing to Tharp’s decision is the excessive idle time experienced during MLF Bass Pro Tour events. With events spanning nearly two weeks, there have been instances where Tharp has spent several days in a rental house without fishing. As a passionate angler, Tharp’s priority is to spend his time on the water, especially considering his limited number of competing years ahead. Therefore, he sees transitioning to the Bassmaster Opens as an opportunity to fish each day of a tournament, reigniting his love for the sport while maximizing his valuable time.

Regrettably, Tharp does not possess a “Legends exemption” that would grant him direct entry into Bassmaster Elite Series events. Consequently, he has chosen to fish all nine Bassmaster Opens next year, where winning an event guarantees an invitation to the prestigious Bassmaster Classic. Although his immediate goal is to secure a Classic berth, Tharp remains open to potentially qualifying for the Elite Series through the points system.

Looking forward to the upcoming season, Tharp is eager to compete once again in a five-fish-limit tournament with a weigh-in. He sorely misses the connection with fans on the stage and the camaraderie shared during the weigh-in process. Having fished his last Bass Pro Tour event in early 2023, Tharp believes that a return to the Bassmaster Opens will bring him a renewed sense of excitement and appreciation for this traditional format.

Tharp’s decision to transition to the Bassmaster Opens aligns with the evolving landscape of professional fishing. While the sport continues to change, Tharp remains steadfast in his commitment to competition and looks forward to reconnecting with old friends from the Bass Pro Tour, as well as forging new relationships with fellow anglers in the Bassmaster Opens.



Gamakatsu lands title sponsorship for Bassmaster Elite kickoff at Toledo Bend

Brian Carter
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Gamakatsu lands title sponsorship for Bassmaster Elite kickoff at Toledo Bend

November 16, 2023

Gamakatsu lands title sponsorship for Bassmaster Elite kickoff at Toledo Bend

Elite_eventLogo_2024_ToledoBend.png

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Gamakatsu, a leading manufacturer and innovator of fishing hooks and terminal tackle, has signed on as the title sponsor for the 2024 season’s first Elite Series event. The 2024 Gamakatsu Bassmaster Elite at Toledo Bend will be held February 22-25 in Many, La.

“Gamakatsu is very excited to partner with B.A.S.S as the title sponsor for the first Elite event in 2024 at Toledo Bend,” said Ted Thibault, sales manager at Gamakatsu USA. “Kicking off the season in Texas should be fun for the anglers and the fans at a fishery known to produce big fish.”

A perennial favorite on Bassmaster Magazine’s annual 100 Best Bass Lakes List and one of the country’s oldest, most famous fisheries, Toledo Bend Reservoir on the Texas/Louisiana border has been one of the best big-bass factories in the world for many years, and those genes continue to thrive. When the St. Croix Bassmaster Opens Series visited Toledo Bend in mid-April, Texas pro Ben Milliken — who would go on to qualify for the 2024 Bassmaster Elite Series — took the tournament with 77 pounds, 14 ounces — the third-heaviest total in a three-day Opens tournament in B.A.S.S. history.

Gamakatsu has deep relationships within the Elite Series ranks, with a variety of current Elite Series anglers on their pro staff, including four-time B.A.S.S. champion and Texas native Lee Livesay.

“It feels great to start the year off here at Toledo Bend,” said Livesay. “Half in Louisiana and half in Texas, I feel right at home. I loved seeing Gamakatsu as the title sponsor for this event. They are a great company to work with and I look forward to showcasing their variety of world-class fishing products.”

Live coverage of all four days of the Gamakatsu Bassmaster Elite at Toledo Bend starts Thursday, Feb. 22 on Bassmaster.com, Tubi and the FOX Sports digital platforms. FS1 will also broadcast live with the tournament leaders beginning at 8 a.m. ET on Saturday and Sunday.

About Gamakatsu
From humble beginnings as Japan’s smallest fishing hook manufacturer in 1955, Gamakatsu® Ltd has evolved to become the world’s preeminent hook manufacturer. Over the years, manufacturing upgrades and cutting-edge innovations have fueled Gamakatsu® USA’s rise as a top producer of fishing hooks, apparel and fishing-related items.  

When anglers purchase Gamakatsu® hooks, they are buying an original product made exclusively by Gamakatsu®. Gamakatsu® is continuously testing new materials and striving to improve its products, which already sets the standard for the rest of the industry. 



Bassmaster Opens Elite Qualifiers field once again stacked with established pros and rising stars

Brian Carter
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Bassmaster Opens Elite Qualifiers field once again stacked with established pros and rising stars

November 16, 2023

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Enthusiasm reached an all-time high for the St. Croix Bassmaster Opens in 2023 as B.A.S.S. unveiled a new “Elite Qualifiers” division that required anglers to fish all nine events across three divisions to qualify for one of nine spots on the Bassmaster Elite Series.

That momentum shows no signs of slowing down as more than 150 anglers have already signed up for the EQs in 2024, including, once again, some of the biggest names in professional bass fishing.

This all comes on the heels of B.A.S.S. officials announcing increased payouts and widely expanded coverage for 2024.

Live coverage from all nine Bassmaster Opens will be streamed on Bassmaster.com, with expanded coverage for the 2024 season on FS1, FS2, Tubi and the FOX Sports digital platforms. Also beginning in 2024, Bassmaster Opens EQ anglers will be competing for a combined Angler of the Year purse of $110,000, which includes an increased first-place cash prize of $45,000. The prize payouts for every tournament will also increase, with the top 45 anglers earning a check. Alongside the new AOY purse, that totals a prize purse of more than $3.1 million over the course of the season.

“The field just keeps getting tougher and more impressive for the EQs,” said Chris Bowes, vice president of tournaments for B.A.S.S. “That’s the way it should be for a trail that is the proving ground for the Bassmaster Elite Series. When anglers survive the grind of fishing nine tournaments against this roster, they can feel confident they’re ready for a shot at the top level of professional bass fishing.”

Like last year, the field is an incredible mix of established stars and up-and-coming young talent — with both lists growing even longer than before.

Among the notables are three current Japanese Elite Series pros, Kyoya Fujita, Kenta Kimura and Masayuki Matsushita. In 2023, Fujita claimed an Elite Series win at Lake Champlain as well as four other Top 10 finishes, while Kimura earned three Top 10s and finished fifth in the Opens EQ points standings.

Mississippi pro Cliff Pace, winner of the 2013 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic, will join this year’s EQs lineup, along with four-time B.A.S.S. winner Randall Tharp. Other former Elite Series pros in the field will include Darold Gleason, Chad Grigsby, Brett Hite, Charlie Hartley, Mike McClelland, Ish Monroe, James Niggemeyer, Garrett Paquette, Russ Lane, Gary Clouse, Yusuke Miyazaki, Casey Scanlon and Shane Lineberger.

Those veteran pros and current Elites, who have an amazing 59 Classic appearances among them, will be joined by talented young anglers like University of Montevallo star Easton Fothergill, who qualified for the 2024 Classic by winning the 2023 Bassmaster College Classic Bracket presented by Lew’s, and decorated Auburn University angler and college national champion Tucker Smith. 

B.A.S.S. Executive Director of Tournaments Hank Weldon, who oversees the Opens trail, says no one should shy away from Opens competition. But he says everyone should enter with their eyes wide open, knowing just how tough this field will be.

“Everywhere you look on this roster of anglers you see guys who are capable of winning major events,” Weldon said. “I thought it was tough last year when we drew 173 guys for the first-ever EQ field. But this list may be even more loaded with big-time talent — and with the schedule we have, it’s going to make for some really exciting events.”

Other recognizable names in the field include Idaho pro Cody Meyer, a former FLW Tour angler with more than $1.4 million in career earnings, and Alabama pro Joey Nania, who won his second Open at Lake Eufaula, Okla., in 2023 — and qualified for his second Classic — before finishing 18th in the EQ standings, less than 100 points from an Elite berth.

“This field is not for the faint of heart,” Weldon said. “Some of the guys who just missed last year — like Keith Tuma, Sam George, Kyle Austin — will no doubt be even hungrier this second time around.”

The field is down slightly from last season but loaded with more established names, suggesting many anglers might have decided they need more time to prepare for a shot at fishing all nine events. Those who survived the gauntlet say that could be a wise decision.

During the 2023 season, anglers like JT Thompkins — the very first Opens EQ Angler of the Year — expressed just how difficult it was knowing every event could be the one that made the difference between qualifying for the Elites or being forced to make another round through the Opens. But he also said the rigorous Opens format was the perfect preparation for an Elite Series slate that will be even tougher.

“I think everyone can see clearly that (the EQ format) was a very good thing because it brought the best out of every angler in the field,” Thompkins said. “I think it’s the best thing that we could have done.

“I think this 2024 Elite rookie class will be the best rookie class of all time, and I think that’s all thanks to the format that (B.A.S.S.) put out.”

With the schedule still split into three divisions, winners of all Opens will still earn a spot in the 2025 Classic, provided they fish all three events in that division.

Registration for both boaters and nonboaters remains open for all 2024 St. Croix Bassmaster Opens tournaments at Bassmaster.com/Opens. 

The complete Elite Qualifiers field is as follows:

Alabama

Matthew Adams, Oxford

Josh Butler, Hayden     

Cody Detweiler, Guntersville

Jacopo Gallelli, Horton

Sam George, Athens

Laker Howell, Guntersville

Connor Jacob, Auburn

Logan Johnson, Jasper

Russ Lane, Prattville

Andrew Loberg, Grant  

Joey Nania, Cropwell   

Tripp Noojin, Bryant    

Tucker Smith, White    

Trey Swindle, Cleveland          

Brady Vernon, Sterrett  

Garrett Warren, Hoover

Arizona

Tai Au, Glendale

Brett Hite, Phoenix

Arkansas

Greg Bohannan, Bentonville     

Beau Browning, Hot Springs National Park

Scout Echols, Monticello

California

Seiji Kato, Los Alamitos

Ish Monroe, Oakdale

Christian Ostrander, Turlock

Colorado

Ty Faber, Pagosa Springs

Florida

Bobby Bakewell, Orlando

Tommy Dunaway, Havana

Tim Frederick, Leesburg

Teb Jones, Yalaha

Scott Kerslake, Okeechobee     

Chris Kingree, Inverness          

Clint Leonard, Saint Cloud

Brandon McMillan, Clewiston

Blake Smith, Lakeland

Mike Surman, Boca Raton

Jackson Swisher, Lake City

Randall Tharp, Port St. Joe

Georgia

Allen Armour, Cumming

Elijah Benson, Dawsonville

Tony Dumitras, Winston

Paul Marks, Cumming

Cody Stahl, Barnsville

Emil Wagner, Marietta

Kelvin Wilcox, Hazlehurst

Idaho

Cody Meyer, Eagle

Brent Shores, Boise

Illinois

Richard Lowitzki, Hampshire

Trevor McKinney, Noble

Ryan Partake, Marseilles

Bart Stanisz, Chicago

Indiana

Billy McDonald, Greenwood

John Voyles, Petersburg

Iowa

Chancy Walters, West Des Moines

Kentucky

Chris Beaudrie, Princeton

Lafe Messer, Warfield

Matt Messer, Warfield

Dalton Smith, Taylorsville

Louisiana

Darold Gleason, Many

Alex Heintze, Denham Springs

Alex Murray, Lake Charles

Clark Reehm, Elm Grove

Maryland

Brian Mullaney, Ijamsville

Michigan

Chris Hellebuyck, White Lake

Garrett Paquette, Canton

Bo Thomas, Edwardsburg

Minnesota

Easton Fothergill, Grand Rapids

Chad Grigsby, Maple Grove

Brad Leuthner, Victoria

Jim Moynagh, Shakopee

Nathan Thompson, Eagan

Keith Tuma, Brainerd

Mississippi

Keith Brumfield, Vicksburg

Brett Cannon, Kiln

Cliff Pace, Ovett

Missouri

Mike McClelland, Blue Eye

Andy Newcomb, Camdenton

Casey Scanlon, Eldon

Trey Schroeder, Theodosia

Joe Wieberg, Freeburg
Zachry Williams, Shell Knob

Nebraska

Brock Belik, Orchard

Nevada

Cody Steckel, Las Vegas

New York

Billy Gilbert, Hamburg

Zach Goutremout, Chaumont    

Phillip Kroll, Otego

North Carolina

Shane Lineberger, Lincolnton

Brayden Rakes, Winston-Salem

Ohio

Charlie Hartley, Grove City

Richard Kaluba, Litchfield

Kyle Weisenburger, Columbus Grove

Oklahoma

Austin Cranford, Norman

Kollin Crawford, Broken Bow

Lance Crawford, Broken Bow

Allan Nail, Sand Springs

Matt Pangrac, Shawnee

Pennsylvania

Jonathan Dietz, Corry

Derrick Sadlowski, Monaca

South Carolina

Sean Anderson, Leesville

Kyle Austin, Ridgeville

Chris Blanchette, Edisto Island

Sean Clayton, Clover

Cole Drummond, Effingham

Derek Lehtonen, Woodruff

Lance Owen, Greer

Jacob Thompkins, Myrtle Beach

Tucker Veronee, Gilbert

Avery Williams, Murrells Inlet

Tennessee

Jason Abram, Piney Flats

Miles Burghoff, Dayton

Gary Clouse, Winchester

Sam Hanggi, Knoxville

Jason Lambert, Savannah

Tristan McCormick, Burns

Freddy Palmer, Estill Springs

Kyle Palmer, Winchester

Jimmy Washam, Stantonville

Texas

Jason Borofka, Lavon   

Paul Browning, Monahans

Caden Cowan, Stephenville

Kevin Dritschler, Prosper

Bryan Finch, Belton

Joey Hanna, Corsicana

Andrew Hargrove, Moody        

Andrew Harp, Linden

Scott Isaacs, Ladonia

Dylan Mayo, Athens

Mike Mayo, Athens

Mike Mitchell, Seven Points

Yusuke Miyazaki, Forney

James Niggemeyer, Van

Danny Ramsey, Trinidad

Blake Schroeder, Whitehouse

Jack Tindel III, Orange

Tim Tyndell, Mineola

Andrew Upshaw, Hemphill

Wyatt Wimberley, Broaddus

Jack York, Emory

Virginia

Chase Clarke, Virginia Beach

Jack Dice, Lynchburg

Jeremy Radford, Huntly

Wisconsin

Andrew Behnke, Fond du Lac

Jacob Bigelow, Cecil

Bailey Bleser, Burlington

Brian Post, Janesville

Adam Rasmussen, Sturgeon Bay

Nick Trim, Galesville

Josh Wiesner, Fond du Lac

Canada

Paul Bouvier, Kingston

Evan Kung, Pickering

Danny McGarry, Newcastle

Japan

Yui Aoki, Minamitsurugun

Kyoya Fujita, Yamanashi

Kenta Kimura, Hirakata Osaka

Daisuke Kita, Otsu Shiga

Masayuki Matsushita, Tokoname-Aichi

Bassmaster Opens Series Title Sponsor: St. Croix
Bassmaster Opens Series Platinum Sponsor: Toyota
Bassmaster Opens Series Premier Sponsors: Bass Pro Shops, Dakota Lithium, Humminbird, Mercury, Minn Kota, Nitro Boats, Power-Pole, Progressive Insurance, Ranger Boats, Rapala, Skeeter Boats, Yamaha
Bassmaster Opens Series Supporting Sponsors: AFTCO, Daiwa, Garmin, Lew’s, Marathon, Triton Boats, VMC

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