Saturday, October 12, 2024
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Darryl & Garrett Starkey Win CATT Lake Murray, SC Nov 4th 2023

Next Lake Murray CATT Fall Qualifier is this Saturday at Dreher Island! Store side! Get there early as there is a High School tournament at the Tournament Ramp! You may put in at another ramp if you want!

Darryl Starkey – Garrett Starkey win Murray! They weighed in a limit at 21.41 lbs!

Tyson Alvanos – Hampton Anderson 2nd with 18.62 lbs!

Jody Wright with the BF at 5.62 lbs!

TeamBFWeightWinningsPoints
Darryl Starkey – Garrett Starkey5.1821.41$954.00110
Hampton Anderson – Tyson Alvanos4.8718.62$200.00109
George Berry4.7116.99108
Edgar Alewine – Will Alewine2.8412.21107
Jeremy Medlock – Joseph Metts4.6011.68106
Johnny Mayer – Chris Epting3.6311.61105
Jody Wright5.6210.82$91.00104
Jason Ries – Roger Mckee2.839.30103
Andre Norman – Shannon Morris2.552.55102
Wyatt Keisler – Todd Kiesler0.000.0092
Rob Osborne – Don Burnett0.000.0092
Matt Mollohan0.000.0092
Joe Quinn – Tyler Causey0.000.0092
Total Entrys$1,040.00
BONUS $$525.00
Total Paid At Ramp$1,245.00
Murray 2023 Fall Final Fund$220.00
CATT$50.00
2024 CATT Championship Fund$50.00
2023 Murray Fall Final Total$220.00



Edward’s & St’ Laurant Win 5 Alive / State Construction Fall Trail Tourney #4 – Mayo Lake

We had our 4th tournament of the STATE CONSTRUCTION Fall Trail last Sunday at Mayo Lake.
We had 23 teams show up Sunday to see if they could figure out the tough fishing Mayo Lake. Well atleast it was tough for me!!!!

🤷‍♂️

  Anyway at the end of the day it was the team of Chris Edward’s & Dave St’ Laurant that stood at the top of the pile. They had a 5 fish limit weighing 16.50 pounds. That earned them with TWT a total of $1100.00
They were followed closely by the father son team of Rodney and Danny Bowen.They had a 5 fish limit weighing 16.15 pounds.That earned them with TWT a total of $625.00.
Big fish was won by the team of Sterling Gilbert and Dale Sanes with a 5.70 pounds bass earning them $230.00 That team has fished 2 of the Fall Trail tournaments and they won Big Fish in both of them.

👀

BIG CONGRATULATIONS  to everyone who placed in the money.  Well deserved!!!

Our 5th and Final tournament of the Fall Trail will be on 11/19/2023 at Hyco Lake.

The Points Champions will be awarded $1000.00 and Plaques. The top 5 in points still have a chance but the top 3 in points at the moment are only separated by 4 points. It’s going to be a good one to watch for sure.

If you have any questions or want to pre register contact me Kevin Sheppard at 336-264-8416 and I will get you the information you need. 

Thanks again!!!

Results
1st. Edward’s & St’ Laurant- 16.50 pounds- $1100.00-TWT
2nd. Bowen & Bowen-16.15 pounds- $625.00-TWT
3rd. Mayton & Smith- 14.35 pounds- $250.00
4th. Gray & Garber- 13.75 pounds-$ 150.00
5th. Overby & Milam- 12.9 pounds
6th. Jesse Mullins- 12.85 pounds
7th. Knott & Parrish (sub) – 12.7 pounds
7th. Wray & Walker – 12.7 pounds
9th.Mullins & Alred – 12.3 pounds
10th. Brann & Cox – 12.25 pounds

Big fish.
Gilbert & Sanes – 5.70 pounds- $ 230.00



Derrick Lehtonen & Roger Hughs Win CATT SC Upstate Lake Hartwell, SC Nov 4, 2023

Next SC Upstate Qualifier is Nov 18 at Lake Hartwell – Broyles Landing!

Derrick Lehtonen – Roger Hughs win Lake Hartwell with 5 bass weighing 15.16 lbs worth $1,076.00!

TeamBFWeightWinningsPoints
Derrick Lehtonen – Roger Hughs4.3215.16$1,076.00110
Justin Reigns Brian Anthony0.0012.86$225.00109
Matthew Pearson – Garmin Gray0.0012.82$100.00108
Derrick Bridges – Van Connor0.0012.22107
Tab Anderson Bill Franeis0.0011.56106
Greg Glouse – Joe Anders0.0011.54105
TJ Souther – Blake Tesnow0.0011.02104
Jimmy Blackwell – Caleb Wyatt2.9610.88$54.00103
Grayson – Blake0.0010.52102
Isac Case0.0010.20101
Landon Stacy – Tobby Stacy0.009.78100
Vic McCoy – Hunter Dill0.008.4899
Dennis Horton – Jesse Horton0.007.4498
Justin Debose – Justin Jordan0.000.0088
Jamie Jeffcoat0.000.0088
John Gibson0.000.0088
Randy Lanning – Greg Dale0.000.0088
Billy Rockchester – Dave Garrett0.000.0088
Total Entrys$1,440.00
BONUS $$450.00
Total Paid At Ramp$1,455.00
2023 SC Upstate Fall Final Fund$335.00
CATT$50.00
2024 CATT Championship$50.00
2023 SC Upstate Fall Fund Total$560.00



The Mystery of Fall River Bass Fishing: Understanding the Challenges

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Fall river bass fishing can be puzzling for anglers due to changes in bass behavior. This study explores the reasons behind the difficulty of fall river bass fishing in simple terms. We look at how factors like water temperature, fish biology, and the environment affect bass behavior. Understanding these factors can help anglers adjust their techniques and enjoy successful fishing experiences.

1. Introduction

Fall river bass fishing is tricky because bass behavior changes during this season. Anglers notice fewer catches and different bass habits. This study aims to explain why fall river bass fishing is challenging. By understanding these reasons, anglers and those managing fisheries can adapt their methods for better results.

2. Environmental Factors

2.1 Water Temperature and Flow

In fall, water temperature drops, and flow patterns change. Cold water slows down bass activity, making them less interested in lures. Also, shifting flow patterns scatter bass, making it harder for anglers to find them.

2.2 Habitat Changes

Fall alters river habitats. Plants decay, reducing hiding spots for bass and their prey. This prompts bass to move, making it difficult for anglers to locate them. Recognizing these habitat changes is vital for successful fall river bass fishing.

3. Fish Biology and Physiology

3.1 Metabolic Changes

Bass, like all cold-blooded creatures, are affected by temperature changes. In fall, their metabolism slows, meaning they need less food. Bass become less active and less likely to bite lures, posing a challenge for anglers.

3.2 Reproductive Behavior

Fall is a crucial time for bass as they prepare for winter and spawning. They may become territorial, focusing on nesting sites instead of feeding. Anglers need to know about these behaviors to catch bass effectively.

4. Ecological Factors

4.1 Prey Availability

Fall alters the availability of prey for bass. Baitfish move to warmer waters, reducing the food supply for bass. Anglers must adjust their lures to match the available prey and attract bass successfully.

4.2 Water Quality

Fall weather affects water quality. Increased rainfall and decaying plants can stress bass, forcing them to seek specific areas with better conditions. Anglers should be aware of these changes to find the best fishing spots.

5. Conclusion

Fall river bass fishing is challenging due to various factors. Understanding the changes in water temperature, flow, habitat, fish behavior, prey availability, and water quality is essential. Anglers can adapt their techniques, be patient, and use the right lures to improve their chances of catching bass. Continued research and collaboration between anglers and scientists are vital to uncovering the mysteries of fall river bass fishing, ensuring enjoyable experiences for everyone.



National Professional Fishing League Announces 2024 Schedule

The 2024 NPFL schedule is here with stops in Alabama, South Carolina, Tennessee, Michigan, Florida, and Missouri.

WILKESVILLE, OH (OCTOBER 26, 2023) — The National Professional Fishing League (NPFL) announces its 2024 season that kicks off in early February with a stop in Alabama at Lake Logan Martin. The schedule brings anglers to new venues as well as some constants for the NPFL.

With stops ranging from Alabama to South Carolina, and Tennessee to Michigan and Florida, as well as a trip to the Midwest, the League is excited to continue to expand its reach in the fishing industry.

Said Brad Fuller, President of the NPFL. “We dedicated tremendous effort to preserving the essence and identity of The National Professional Fishing League in our 2024 schedule. This is a truly diverse schedule that covers the full spectrum of bass fishing throughout the entire year and the angler who secures the title of Angler of the Year will undoubtedly prove themselves as the most consistently well-rounded contender on our circuit. We’re thrilled to revisit some of the cherished stops from our history while also exploring exciting new venues. It’s of utmost importance that we leverage our schedule to continually expand the League’s brand and introduce ‘The League’ to bass havens around the country.”

Stop number one kicks off in February on Alabama’s Lake Logan Martin where the anglers get the season started on the Coosa River. The 49-mile playing field features over 26 square miles of Spotted and Largemouth bass-filled waters.

Following stop one, the 2024 season pauses briefly for the 2023 NPFL championship. Lake Amistad and the City of Del Rio, Texas, play host to the top anglers from the 2023 Progressive Angler of the Year race on March 7-9. With a $200,000 total purse and a $100,000 first-place prize, the event in Texas will make for a fun tournament.

“The City of Del Rio, Texas is excited to host the quantity and quality of people coming in with the NPFL Championship next spring,” said Blanca Larson, Executive Director of Explore Del Rio Amistad Oasis. “In addition to the financial impact on the local economy, we look forward to the NPFL showcasing all that Del Rio has to offer, on and off the water. We are excited to showcase the value of coming to Del Rio, TX to fish historic Lake Amistad.”

After the 2023 NPFL championship in March, the season resumes, and the anglers return to Anderson, South Carolina for stop number two, and the second trip to Lake Hartwell for ‘The League,’ on May 16 through 18. In 2022, Drew Six took the victory with a three-day total of 51 pounds, 5 ounces, edging out Patrick Walters who weighed 46 pounds, 14 ounces.

“We are thrilled to welcome the NPFL back to Anderson County’s Green Pond Landing and Lake Hartwell! The leadership of Anderson County has provided us with the necessary resources to bring high-level events to our facilities that create an economic impact in our community, and the NPFL delivers,” said Neil Paul, TMP, Executive Director of Visit Anderson. “From their Angler Roundtables, their Community Spotlights, and their Community Service Projects, they go above and beyond in leaving their mark on a host community, and we’re looking forward to the opportunity to welcome them back to Anderson County in 2024!”

From South Carolina, stop three brings the anglers and their families back to the Tennessee River and Pickwick Lake. The City of Counce, Tennessee plays host July 11 – 13, and this marks the third trip to the Tennessee River in four seasons. In 2021, Brandon Perkins took the victory with 55 pounds, 11 ounces. To begin this season, Perkins also took a win on Pickwick with a total of 66 pounds, 3 ounces.

For stop four, the league returns to the North to Bay City, Michigan, and the big water of Lake Huron, on August 29 – 31. This will mark the third consecutive trip to Bay City for the NPFL with Gray Adkins taking the victory in 2022 with 51 pounds, 13 ounces, and this season, Trent Palmer claimed the victory with 62 pounds, 12 ounces.

“Bay City is excited to welcome back The National Professional Fishing League in 2024,” said Ed Clements, Bay City Fishing Committee. “The end of August should provide an excellent event for competitors and fans; weights should be close and the winner will come right down to the wire. Look for largemouth to play a bigger role than ever on Saginaw Bay and river.”

After the trip to the North, the anglers will head South to none only than the St. Johns River. The City of Deland, Florida plays host for stop five on the famed river in the early fall, September 26-28. The NPFL returns to Florida for the third time in four years for the 2024 season. In 2021, the league visited the Harris Chain of Lakes in June with John Soukup winning his second trophy of the season with a total weight of 61 pounds, 15 ounces. In 2022, Taylor Watkins took the victory on the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes in November with 69 pounds, 14 ounces.

The season finale of the NPFL season brings the anglers and their families to the Midwest on October 24-26 for a Lake of the Ozarks showdown. Hosted by Central Missouri’s Tri-Country Lodging Association, the Chompers Bait Company National Professional Fishing League Stop Six at Lake of the Ozarks is sure to be a great way to end the season.
“The Lake of the Ozarks is thrilled to partner with The National Professional Fishing League for a fall 2024 event,” says Lagina Fitzpatrick, Executive Director of Central Missouri’s Tri-County Lodging. “We are blessed with one of the best fisheries in the county and enjoy welcoming new events and anglers to our little piece of paradise. We know everyone will enjoy their time here and can’t wait to welcome all next fall.”

2024 National Professional Fishing League Schedule
Stop 1 – Lake Logan Martin: Oxford, Alabama, February 1 – 3
2023 NPFL Championship – Lake Amistad: Del Rio, Texas, March 7-9
Stop 2 – Lake Hartwell: Anderson, South Carolina, May 16 – 18
Stop 3 – Pickwick Lake: Counce, Tennessee, July 11 – 13
Stop 4 – Saginaw Bay: Bay City, Michigan, August 29 – 31
Stop 5 – St. Johns River, Deland, Florida, September 26-28
Stop 6 – Lake of the Ozarks, Osage Beach, Missouri, October24-26

Learn more about the NPFL, here.



DAIWA introduces improved, stylistic, high-performing, and smartly priced spinning reel family.

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Enhanced REVROS LT Spinning Reels 
DAIWA introduces improved, stylistic, high-performing, and smartly priced spinning reel family.
FOOTHILL RANCH, CA (November 7, 2023) – DAIWA enthusiastically announces improvements to its gateway spinning reel – REVROS LT. Available in sizes from 1000 to 6000, DAIWA brings anglers of all budgets a quality reel that doesn’t break the bank.“Even at this price—$59.99 to $79.99—we were able to design and bring to market an improved, affordable spinning reel from size 1000 to 6000 for freshwater, inshore, and light-surf applications,” says DAIWA Senior Marketing Manager, Marc Mills. 
“What’s great about this improved generation of REVROS LT is it now sports a ZAION V body, which is simultaneously lighter and a lot stronger than what other manufacturers are using in this price range. This is true carbon resin graphite. It keeps all the bearings and gears in precise alignment because the material is harder and more rigid. The body doesn’t bend or lose efficiency,” says Mills.Mills continues: “The new REVROS LT also features an AIRDRIVE ROTOR and AIRDRIVE BAIL. Especially with these new design changes, the REVROS LT is a great starting point for beginning to avid anglers. I can remember when I was just starting out on the water; I was looking for spinning reel options in that $60 to $80 price range. This is that reel.”
REVROS LTFEATURES: NEW! ZAION V Body is DAIWA’s next generation of lightweight resin and carbon material NEW! AIRDRIVE ROTOR is lighter, stronger, and more balanced than any rotor system that’s come before NEW! AIRDRIVE BAIL delivers maximum rigidity and strength with minimum weight TOUGH DIGIGEAR® Machined aluminum folding handle Ball Bearing-Supported Automatic Tournament Drag (ATD™) Sizes 1000 to 6000 MSRP’s from $59.99In a world of you get what you pay for, the re-designed REVROS LT spinning reel family gives you more design technology and concept than reels twice the price. 
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



When Passion Fades: The Dilemma of Professional Bass Fishing Anglers


The captivating world of professional bass fishing angling often enthralls both enthusiasts and athletes alike. However, as with any sport, there comes a time when participants must contemplate walking away from the activity they love. This article delves into the challenges faced by professional bass fishing anglers as they grapple with the decision to continue or call it quits. Drawing insights from experienced anglers, we explore the factors that contribute to this dilemma and shed light on how one can recognize the signs that it may be time to step back from the competitive arena.

The Thrill of the Catch
For many professional bass fishing anglers, the sport is a lifelong passion that fuels a relentless pursuit of the perfect catch. The thrill of reeling in a trophy-sized bass, the adrenaline rush that accompanies a successful tournament, and the camaraderie among fellow anglers often serve as powerful motivators to keep pushing forward. However, like any competitive endeavor, the journey is not without its challenges.

Physical and Mental Demands
Professional bass fishing angling demands peak physical fitness and unwavering mental focus. Anglers spend countless hours on the water, enduring harsh weather conditions and physically demanding tasks. The pressure to consistently perform at the highest level can take a toll on one’s physical and mental well-being. Injuries, burnout, and mental fatigue are common concerns that may lead anglers to question their continued participation in the sport.

Financial Considerations
The financial aspect of professional bass fishing angling cannot be overlooked. The sport requires significant investments in equipment, travel, and tournament fees. While successful anglers can secure sponsorships and prize money, the financial stability of a professional angler’s career is often uncertain. Financial pressures, coupled with the need to devote substantial time away from family and other commitments, can add to the dilemma of whether to continue pursuing the sport or to seek alternative paths.

Life Balance
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is a challenge faced by professionals across various industries, and professional bass fishing angling is no exception. The rigorous tournament schedule, extensive travel, and time away from loved ones can strain personal relationships and lead to feelings of isolation and detachment. Recognizing the importance of a balanced life and considering the impact of their career on personal well-being is crucial for anglers to make informed decisions about their future in the sport.

Recognizing the Signs
Knowing when it’s time to walk away from professional bass fishing angling is a deeply personal decision. Experienced anglers suggest paying attention to various signs that indicate a potential need for change. These signs may include a decline in performance, loss of passion, increased stress, or a desire to explore new interests or career opportunities. Engaging with mentors, seeking support from fellow anglers, and assessing one’s long-term goals can help anglers gain clarity and make informed choices.

Conclusion
Professional bass fishing angling is a sport that demands immense dedication, skill, and sacrifice. However, as with any passion pursued at a professional level, there may come a time when an angler must assess their priorities and consider walking away. By recognizing the signs of burnout, assessing personal and financial considerations, and valuing their overall well-being, professional bass fishing anglers can make the tough decision to gracefully exit the competitive arena, while preserving their love for the sport they hold so dear.



Jesse and Jordan Wiggins Win ABT 100 Smith Lake

Jesse and Jordan Wiggins Win ABT 100 Smith Lake

By Jason Duran 

The third and final stop for the ABT 100 was on Lewis Smith Lake where 100 of the best teams in bass fishing competed for first place of $25,000 and a total payout of over $100,000 in this event. The points race for AOY was very tight with only 1 point separating first and second place. The spotted bass at Smith Lake love the cold weather and Mother Nature dished up a perfect week of practice and tournament day for this event. Teams were anxious and ready to get this event started. However, on tournament morning, the fog rolled in and delayed blast off for one hour. When the fog finally cleared, teams quickly went to work locating fish with the hope of catching enough to take home the first-place trophy.

The team of Jesse and Jordan Wiggins spent the week at another event in Missouri and after making the long trip home, they arrived early Saturday morning just in time to rig some rods for this event. When asked how they prepared for this event Jesse said, “we have had about 34 years to prepare for this event; we have been on this lake every year since we were born, and we can’t really remember when we started fishing it because we were so young. We used all the information we have gained fishing here and knew the areas to stay in to try and win the tournament.” They fished the previous weekend at Smith Lake; “last week, we didn’t have a single fish the first half of the day, and we knew not to go and do that again today. We started today in a different area and were able to catch a couple keepers, and then we made the run to the creek where we ended up catching them. We knew if it was going down in there today that would be where we could win the tournament. We used two main baits; the first was a top water walking bait, and the second was a Jackall Driftfry. Typically, we don’t weigh any fish on the Driftfry, but we found this massive school of fish. We could see them on the forward-facing sonar, so we dropped the bait down to them. I would catch a 3-pounder, and Jordan would drop down and catch a 25-pound stripe. This happened back and forth a couple times, so it was pretty hectic there for about an hour. It was honestly more fish than I have ever seen, and it was all about being in that right area at the right time.” Jesse and Jordan weighed in 17.50 pounds and collected the 25,000 ABT check and bonuses including $7,000 Phoenix Bonus.

The Second-place team of Chad and Chase Schroeder weighed in 15.35. They had a quick practice arriving about noon on Friday for their very first time on the lake. They practiced separately and caught a couple good largemouth up shallow and spent the rest of practice marking docks in the Brushy Creek area. Their home lake is the Alabama River, so they are used to fishing stained water which is much different than the clear water of Smith Lake. They started on tournament day “fishing a gravel point that was holding some decent spotted bass that were schooling in practice, but that didn’t pan out. It seemed the bait was moving around making the fish scatter, so we moved to our primary pattern of fishing docks using a White Magdraft swimbait and an (unnamed) flipping jig. We got three solid bites in practice and figured if we stuck with it, we could get more on tournament day.  We ended up catching 8 fish throughout the day.” They collected a $12,500 pay day for their second-place finish.

The third-place team of Trey and Leon Wade are also an Alabama River team finding success on Smith Lake. They spent two days in practice preparing for this event. “We were able to locate spotted bass using our live scope, but they were just not big enough.  We caught a good largemouth in practice that helped clue us in to what we needed to do. We made the run up Ryan Creek to the back of a pocket and fished the docks where we located the largemouth in practice. We used a big swimbait that skips easily under the docks. When we got it back deep under the dock, we were able to catch fish. To let the dock fish rest, we made a run to another area that was not productive for us, so we came back to the docks and were able to catch a couple more. We ended up weighing in all largemouth totaling 14.93-pounds.” They collected a $10,000 check for third place finish.

The Angler of the Year title was also awarded at this event. The team of Jonathan Collins and
Derek Hicks came into this event leading by only 1 point. Jonathan fished solo in this event because Derek had some family obligations. Jonathan still came with the hopes of holding onto their lead and winning the Championship belts. Jonathan started the day as boat number one at blast off, so he had his pick of the lake to start. He made a short run to an area where he located some schooling fish in practice. Those fish didn’t produce, so he made a long run towards the Cullman Park area and quickly went to work targeting fish up shallow. “I tried my hardest all day to pick each area apart and keep my bait in the strike zone. I used a Skinny Dipper and an Extreme Lures Drop bait fishing mostly around docks. I fished hard till the very end and at 2:57 when I caught the last fish and quickly made my check in time of 3:00.” He caught 10.66-pounds, enough to finish in 18th place, and collected enough points to earn the title of Angler of the Year in the ABT 100 against the best of the best team fishermen.

The top five standings are below for a complete list of standings please visit:

Download and listen to the ABT Podcast on your favorite Podcast app by searching for “Alabama Bass Trail Podcast.”  The Podcast is released each week on Tuesday. 



Mike Nichols Sr. & Jr. WIN CATT Smith Mountain Lake with 21.37lbs

CLICK HERE TO SEE RESULTS

Smith Mountain Lake, Nov 5th — In a thrilling showdown at Smith Mountain Lake, 54 fishing teams battled the cold in the CATT Tourney Trail event, all vying for a hefty cash prize. The competition was fierce, but the father-son duo, Mike Nichols Sr. & Jr., emerged victorious with a five-fish haul weighing in at an impressive 21.37 pounds.

Facing challenges like a high boat number, the Nichols team showcased their adaptability by reversing their pattern and using a green pumpkin worm on a home made shaky head in light wind conditions. Their strategic approach paid off, earning them the top spot. Following closely behind was the skilled team of Ryan & Wayne Mace, landing five fish totaling 16.57 pounds.

“We’re thrilled with our win and grateful for the support,” said Mike Nichols Sr. “This victory belongs to my son who caught the lunker for the day.”




Roger Dolan Sr & Jr Win CATT Buggs Island with 15.07lbs

Buggs Island, – Nov 6th – The CATT Tournament event at Buggs Island proved to be a thrilling competition, with anglers battling challenging waters & a tough bite to land the biggest five. Amongst the skilled participants, the father and son team of Roger Dolan Jr. and Sr. emerged victorious, clinching the winning title with their impressive bag weighing 15.07 pounds. Their strategic use of a jig in deep water and precise targeting of brush piles set them apart in a field where weights hovered around the 10-pound mark.

Roger Dolan Jr. expressed his gratitude for the victory, emphasizing the importance of their adaptive strategy. The duo’s success didn’t stop there; they also cashed in on various side pots, adding to their substantial prize.

The organizers and fellow participants congratulated the Dolan team on their achievement, recognizing their dedication and strategic brilliance in the competitive fishing world.