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Indiana Pro Mike Raber Leads Day One of the Toyota Series Championship Presented by Simms on Table Rock Lake

Brian Carter
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Indiana Pro Mike Raber Leads Day One of the Toyota Series Championship Presented by Simms on Table Rock Lake

Elkhart, Indiana Angler Leads by 1-Pound, 5-Ounce Margin After Opening Day of Competition for up to $235,000

BRANSON, Mo. (Nov. 2, 2023) – After several frigid days of practice on Table Rock Lake, over 400 anglers welcomed a bit of a warming trend Thursday to begin the three-day competition for a top cash award of up to $235,000 at the 2023 Toyota Series Championship at Table Rock Lake Presented by Simms in Branson, Missouri.

The long-running bass-fishing championship, hosted by ExploreBranson.com, features the nation’s best Toyota Series pros and international anglers, and is the culmination of the 2023 Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats season.

Pro Mike Raber of Elkhart, Indiana, weighed a five-bass limit totaling 17 pounds, 12 ounces to take the early lead after Day 1 of the three-day event. Raber holds a 1-pound, 5-ounce lead over pro Emil Wagner of Marietta, Georgia, who caught five bass weighing 16 pounds, 7 ounces, good for second place. Wagner was followed closely by local pro Brad Jelinek of Lincoln, Missouri, who weighed a five-bass limit totaling 15-12 to finish the day in third place.

After a vicious cold front swept through the Ozark region earlier in the week, warmer temperatures on Thursday seemed to be shaking things up on the Missouri fishery.

“I didn’t expect this outcome at all when I started out this morning,” said Raber. “I caught a couple fish today that were a caliber I never saw in practice, so I think the conditions are starting to change out there. Hopefully that’s going to continue throughout the tournament.

“The warmer weather today really got the fish more mobile,” Raber continued. “I caught about 10 keepers today, nothing too crazy, and not a ton of fish. I think they are pretty pressured, and bites are at a premium right now.”

With hundreds of anglers spread out across Table Rock Lake trying to figure out the bite in the changing conditions, Day 1 began with a wide array of game plans throughout the field.

“I started my morning on one pattern and caught a big one doing that, then transitioned a little throughout the day,” said Raber. “I covered a lot of water – a couple places were firing, and a whole lot of places weren’t. The fishing’s not easy out there – it was brutal – and I think anyone in the field would tell you that right now.”

Raber said the championship event is the first time he’s visited Table Rock Lake, or even fished anywhere near the region, but despite that, the Indiana pro was definitely a force to be reckoned with on Thursday.

“I fished the four days of practice here, but I’ve never fished a lake that looks like this, or even seen a highland reservoir until this week,” said Raber. “It took some getting used to, especially the first couple days of practice – it was like being on the moon. Where I’m from, largemouth fishing is grass, and there’s none of that here – there’s not even moss on the rocks. I’m a smallmouth guy too though, so that helped. But it’s definitely a different type of fishery for me.”

Raber said he caught a mixed bag of fish throughout the day, including spotted, smallmouth and largemouth bass.

“I caught mostly spotted bass, but my big ones were largemouth,” said Raber. “I don’t really have areas for each species, they just kind of caught me by surprise today – especially the places where I found smallmouth. There weren’t smallmouth in those spots earlier in the week.

“This is my very first season fishing the Toyota Series, so I just feel extremely blessed to be here, and doubly blessed for the day today,” Raber continued. “God has given me more than I deserve, so we’ll see what happens. Pulling off a win would obviously mean the world to me, but win, lose or draw, we’re going to go out there and try to do things the right way and see what we can get done.”

The top 20 pros after Day One on Table Rock Lake are:

1st:           Mike Raber of Elkhart, Ind., five bass, 17-12
2nd:          Emil Wagner of Marietta, Ga., five bass, 16-7
3rd:          Brad Jelinek of Lincoln, Mo., five bass, 15-12
4th:           Alec Morrison of Peru, N.Y., five bass, 15-4
5th:           Evan Kung of Pickering, Ontario, five bass, 15-2
6th:           Ken Thompson of Roaring Springs, Pa., five bass, 15-0
7th:           Colby Miller of Elmer, La., five bass, 14-11
8th:           Kyle Cortiana of Broken Arrow, Okla., five bass, 14-9
9th:           Jacob Keenom of Wellston, Okla., five bass, 14-9
10th:        Jeremy Gordon of Rutledge, Tenn., five bass, 14-6
11th:        Charlie Weyer of Branson West, Mo., five bass, 14-5
12th:        Jacob Welch of Jefferson City, Mo., four bass, 14-3
13th:        Derik Hudson of Concord, Va., five bass, 14-0
14th:        Erik Luzak of Fenelon Falls, Ontario, five bass, 13-15
14th:        Ish Monroe of Oakdale, Calif., five bass, 13-15
16th:        Dakota Ebare, Brookeland, Texas, five bass, 13-14
17th:        Travis Harriman of Huntsville, Ark., five bass, 13-13
17th:        Brian LaClair of Denton, Md., five bass, 13-13
17th:        Justin Lucas of Guntersville, Ala., five bass, 13-13
17th:        Andrew Ready of Auburndale, Fla., five bass, 13-13

For a full list of results visit MajorLeagueFishing.com.

Overall, there were 745 bass weighing 1767 pounds caught by 196 pros Thursday. The catch included 97 five-bass limits.

Will Lancett of Jacksonville, Arkansas, leads the Strike King co-angler division with four bass weighing 11 pounds, 12 ounces, followed by Al Hopkins of Pendleton, Indiana, who weighed five bass totaling 10-3 to end the day in second place. Co-anglers are competing for a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower Mercury outboard.

The top 20 Strike King co-anglers after Day One on Table Rock Lake are:

1st:           Will Lancett of Jacksonville, Ark., four bass, 11-12
2nd:          Al Hopkins of Pendleton, Ind., five bass, 10-3
3rd:          Brett Robbins of Solvang, Calif., five bass, 10-2
4th:           Larry Taylor of Seaford, Del., five bass, 9-8
5th:           Paul Gelles of Pingree, Idaho, four bass, 8-14
6th:           Morgan White of Jasper, Texas, four bass, 8-12
7th:           Chad Garton of Des Moines, Iowa, four bass, 7-11
7th:           Bruce Harris of Oakdale, Calif., three bass, 7-11
9th:           Alex Berry of Pomona Harare, Zimbabwe, four bass, 7-10
10th:        Andrew Harper of Shelbyville, Ill., three bass, 7-6
11th:        Cole Semler of Dalbo, Minn., three bass, 7-4
12th:        Kirk Marshall of Discovery Bay, Calif., three bass, 7-1
12th:        Nycholas Swanson of Cedar Falls, Iowa, two bass, 7-1
12th:        Todd Woods of Long Beach, Calif., three bass, 7-1
15th:        Leigh Lutz of Concord, Calif., three bass, 6-8
16th:        Mason Chapman of Lenexa, Kan., three bass, 6-5
16th:        Chase Johnson of Quincy, Ill., three bass, 6-5
18th:        Sakae Ushio of Tonawanda, N.Y., three bass, 6-0
19th:        Akira Okuyama of Forest Hills, N.Y., three bass, 5-11
19th:        Chad Roorda of Palm Desert, Calif., three bass, 5-11
19th:        Toon Van Ham of Merksplas, Belgium, three bass, 5-11                

Anglers will take off daily at 7:30 a.m. CT from Table Rock State Park Marina, located at 380 State Park Marina Road, in Branson. Weigh-ins will also be held at the marina and will begin at 3:30 p.m. Fans are welcome to attend the daily takeoffs and weigh-ins and also follow the action online through the “MLF Live” weigh-in broadcasts and daily coverage at MajorLeagueFishing.com. The 2023 Toyota Series Championship Presented by Simms will premiere on CBS Sports in 2024.

The full field of anglers compete on Days 1 and 2 of the event, with the top 10 pros and top 10 Strike King co-anglers based on cumulative weight from the first two days continuing to the third and final day. The 2023 Toyota Series champions will be determined by the heaviest three-day total weight.

Pros and co-anglers can qualify for multiple contingency awards based on final standings in the championship, including the lucrative $35,000 Phoenix MLF Bonus for pros. The winning Strike King co-angler will earn a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower Mercury outboard motor.

The 2023 Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats consisted of six divisions – Central, Northern, Plains, Southern, Southwestern and Western – each holding three regular-season events, along with the International division and the Wild Card. The highest finishing pro from each division at the championship will claim a $10,000 bonus. The bonus will go to the second-highest finishing pro in the division represented by the overall champion.

The 2023 Toyota Series Championship field features the top 25 pros, top 25 Strike King co-anglers and tournament winners from each of the six divisions; the top 25 pros and 25 co-anglers from the Wild Card division plus tournament winners; the highest finishing boater and co-angler from each of the six Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine Regionals and the TBF at the All-American; the top three teams from the College Fishing National Championship; High School Fishing National Champions; TBF National Champions; and MLF International anglers from Canada, Central Europe, Italy, Korea, Mexico, Namibia, Portugal, South Africa, Spain and Zimbabwe.

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.



Reflecting on October: A Recap of Top Stories from the Bass Cast and Other Bass Fishing Websites

Brian Carter
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Reflecting on October: A Recap of Top Stories from the Bass Cast and Other Bass Fishing Websites

As October ends, it’s time to reflect on the month’s most captivating stories from the world of bass fishing. From thrilling tournaments to breakthrough techniques, let’s take a look back at some of the top stories covered by the Bass Cast and other bass fishing websites.

October also witnessed heartwarming tales of triumph and perseverance. The Bass Cast featured inspiring stories of anglers who overcame hardships to excel in the sport. From individuals battling physical disabilities to young anglers breaking barriers, these stories showcased the power of determination and passion for bass fishing.

In addition to the Bass Cast, various bass fishing websites provided informative articles on tackle reviews, angler profiles, and tips for beginners. Bassmaster Magazine, Bass Angler Magazine, and FLW Fishing Magazine delivered comprehensive content catering to anglers of all skill levels. From gear recommendations to expert advice on improving casting techniques, these publications aimed to educate and empower bass fishing enthusiasts.

Notably, October also marked the start of the fall transition period in many regions. Bass fishing websites like Wired2Fish and BassResource offered valuable insights into the behavior of bass during this season. Articles focused on locating fish in changing water conditions, adjusting bait presentations, and maximizing fishing success during this transition period.

As we bid farewell to October, the world of bass fishing remains dynamic and ever-evolving. The stories covered by the Bass Cast and other reputable bass fishing websites have not only entertained and informed enthusiasts but also highlighted the passion shared by anglers worldwide.

Looking ahead, November promises to bring more exciting tournaments, breakthroughs, and stories from the world of bass fishing. Whether it’s a record-breaking catch or a new technique that takes the fishing community by storm, bass fishing enthusiasts can expect to find comprehensive coverage and engaging stories on platforms dedicated to their beloved sport.

  • 41st Anniversary WON BASS U.S. Open starts Tomorrow.Josh Bertrand, Gary Klein and Bryant Smith Preview event: This is a story about the preparation and anticipation for the 41st edition of the WON BASS U.S. Open, one of the most prestigious bass fishing tournaments in the Western United States. The story features interviews with some of the top contenders, such as Josh Bertrand, Gary Klein, and Bryant Smith, who share their insights and strategies for fishing Lake Mohave, the venue for the event.
  • Kyle Grover Wins 2023 WON BASS U.S. Open in Wire-to-Wire Fashion Patrick Touey Rallies to Second Place, Anthony Hunt Wins AAA Division: This is a story about the dramatic conclusion of the 2023 WON BASS U.S. Open, where Kyle Grover of Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif. held off a late charge from Patrick Touey of Santa Maria, Calif. to win the coveted trophy and a 2024 Bass Cat Cougar and Mercury 250 ProXS. The story details how Grover used a combination of deep and shallow tactics to catch his winning fish, and how Touey nearly pulled off a comeback with a big final day limit.
  • Big limit of spotted bass lifts Dube to lead at B.A.S.S. Nation Championship on Lake Hartwell3: This is a story about the first day of the 2023 TNT Fireworks B.A.S.S. Nation Championship at Lake Hartwell, where Tim Dube of Nashua, N.H. caught a massive limit of spotted bass weighing 16 pounds, 3 ounces to take the lead. The story describes how Dube used his electronics and finesse techniques to locate and catch his fish, and how he hopes to maintain his momentum for the rest of the tournament.
  • Rodney Bell & Tommy Jones Win Angler’s Choice Championship on Kerr Lake: This is a story about the victory of Rodney Bell and Tommy Jones at the Angler’s Choice Championship on Kerr Lake, where they overcame tough fishing conditions and a strong field of competitors to win the title. The story recounts how they used their experience and versatility to catch quality fish on both days of the tournament, and how they edged out their closest rivals by less than a pound.

TOP OCTOBER STORIES FROM OTHER WEBSITES



Landon Powell & James Gibbons Win CATT Waccamaw River, SC Oct 28, 2023

Brian Carter
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Landon Powell & James Gibbons Win CATT Waccamaw River, SC Oct 28, 2023

Next Waccamaw River CATT Fall Qualifier is Nov 18 at the Yauhannah Landing! This the last Qualifier for the Fall so if you need 1 to get in the Final this is your last chance!

Landon Powell & James Gibbons weighed in a limit at 11.70 lbs taking 1st place and $1,226.00!

Timmy & River Squires 2nd with 10.51 lbs!

Mike Gerald & Timmy Williamson 3rd Place 10.26 lbs!

Dustin Powell & Andrew Vereen with the BF! 5.22 lbs!

TeamBFWeightWinningsPoints
James Gibbins & Landon Powell3.3311.70$1,226.00110
Timmy & River Squires3.1210.51$400.00109
Timmy Williamson & Mike Gerald3.0210.26$175.00108
Dustin Powell & Andrew Vereen5.229.84$119.00107
Joey & Danny McLean2.309.60106
Robby Boyd & Dalton Warren2.099.02105
John Proctor & Jacob Barfield2.718.89104
Gary Pope1.948.71103
Ed Owens & Chris Jones2.378.43102
Charlie Johnson & Nate Rabon2.158.18101
Keith & Rex Coker3.278.16100
Steve & Jacob Martin3.257.6599
Tommy & Thomas Collins0.006.1289
Robby Byrum & Eric Cox0.000.0089
Don McLaud0.000.0089
Jason Smith0.000.0089
Will Hendrix0.000.0089
Total Entrys$2,040.00
BONUS $$275.00
Total Paid At Ramp$1,920.00
CATT$50.00
2023 Waccamaw Fall Final Fund$295.00
2024 CATT Championship Fund$50.00
2023 Waccamaw Fall Fund Total$925.00

November Smith Mountain Lake Fishing Report by Captain Chad Green

Brian Carter
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November Smith Mountain Lake Fishing Report by Captain Chad Green

Smith Mountain Lake Fishing Report

Captain Chad Green

www.lastcastguideservicesml.com

November is here and the fall fishing is at its peak fishing will really to start to peak when the water temps reach the mid 50’s. Get out on the water when you can and enjoy the sunrises and sunsets. Practice catch and release as much as possible to preserve our great fisheries out there. As always, just make one more Last Cast as it could be the next trophy fish.
Visit https://missilebaits.store/and check out all they have to offer.
Special Thanks to Brian Carter at the https://thebasscast.com/
Check out Smith Mountain Boat and Tackle Penhook for your boating needs https://www.smboats.com

PRACTICE CATCH AND RELEASE ON CITATION SIZE FISH

Largemouth Bass/Smallmouth Bass
The bass will start their transition this month in to their fall patterns. Look for fish to be in many depth ranges and a variety of lures will be needed with changing weather. Target rocky areas, flat points shallow drop offs. Primary baits in the Fall are usually crawfish imitating lures and will produce the most bites. Shakey Heads, Drop shots and Jigs will produce fish anywhere from 5 to 15ft in the fall. Jerkbaits and Crankbaits will also be a player in Novemeber as well. This is a great opportunity to catch some trophy fish as well. Smallmouth will still be found near humps, shoals and rocky areas using the same lures. Windy, Rainy, or Overcast days are the best in the fall, if its Sunny you will have to stick with slow moving baits unless you have wind.
Striped Bass
Striper fishing will be good this month and look for them in larger schools as they feed in the fall. They will travel in smaller schools searching for feeding opportunities. This jigging in the 30-50ft range will produce fish throughout the day as well and larger fish will show up this month as well at times and may be in smaller schools. The mid to upper end of the lake is where most of the action will be this month. Some fish have been found on the surface feeding early mornings and late evenings on the upper ends of the lake and can be fast and furious action. Look for fish in the mouths of the larger tributaries and large bays this month. Larger topwater plugs can be productive.
Crappie
Most of the Crappie have been in the 15-25 foot range. The crappie fishing will heat up this month as the water cools



Is “Dream Crusher” Patric Walters the Best Angler on the Water Today?

Brian Carter
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Is “Dream Crusher” Patric Walters the Best Angler on the Water Today?

In the world of competitive fishing, few names have garnered as much attention and admiration in recent years as Patric Walters. With his exceptional skills, unwavering dedication, and impressive track record, Walters has established himself as one of the best anglers on the water today. Let’s delve into his journey and explore what sets him apart from the rest.

Hailing from Summerville, South Carolina, Walters was introduced to fishing at a young age by his father, who instilled in him a deep love for the sport. As he grew older, Walters honed his skills and developed a keen understanding of various fishing techniques and strategies. These early experiences laid the foundation for his future success.

Patrick started fishing as soon as he could hold a rod in his hand, and turned his childhood passion into his dream career. He grew up saltwater fishing with his father, but transitioned to competitive bass fishing in high school. He joined the University of South Carolina’s bass fishing team in college, and won the FLW College National Championship in 2015 with his partner Gettys Brannon. He also qualified for four Bassmaster College National Championships and three FLW National Championships.

After graduating from college, he wasted no time in making a name for himself on the Bassmaster Open circuit. He won his first Bass Pro Shops Central Open at the Red River in Louisiana in 2018, and finished second at the next stop on the Eastern Division, Douglas Lake in Tennessee. These results earned him a spot on the Elite Series, where he has been a consistent performer ever since. In his rookie season in 2019, he posted three Championship Sunday appearances (Top 12) in his first four events, and ended the season third in Rookie of the Year standings. He also qualified for his first Bassmaster Classic.

In 2020, he had a breakthrough year, winning two tournaments and setting some records along the way. He won his second Bassmaster Open on Lake Hartwell in his home state of South Carolina, and ended up first in AOY points for the Eastern Opens. He then went on to win his first Elite Series tournament on Lake Fork in Texas, where he became the proud owner of a Century Belt with his four-day total weight of 104 pounds and 12 ounces. He also set a record for the largest margin of victory ever in an Elite Series tournament, winning by 29 pounds and 10 ounces. He finished third in AOY points for the Elite Series that year.

In 2021, he continued his hot streak, finishing fourth in AOY points for the Elite Series. He also made history by becoming the first angler to use live sonar technology to win an Elite Series event on the St. Johns River in Florida3. He used his Humminbird MEGA Live Imaging to locate and catch big bass that were suspended in open water. He also showed his versatility by finishing second on Pickwick Lake in Alabama, where he used a variety of techniques to catch fish from shallow grass to deep ledges.

In 2022, he maintained his high level of performance, finishing fifth in AOY points for the Elite Series1. He also had another strong showing at the Bassmaster Classic on Lake Hartwell, where he finished fourth with a total weight of 51 pounds and 15 ounces. 

We can’t leave out his career so far in the National Professional fishing league.

One of the key factors that sets Walters apart from his peers is his versatility. While some anglers excel in specific fishing techniques or styles, Walters has proven himself across a wide range of scenarios. Whether it’s finesse fishing for smallmouth bass or power fishing for largemouth bass, he possesses the knowledge and expertise to excel in any situation. This adaptability has consistently placed him at the top of the leaderboard.

Beyond his technical skills, Walters possesses a deep understanding of the water and its inhabitants. He invests a significant amount of time studying his intended fishing grounds, analyzing patterns, and identifying potential hotspots. This meticulous approach allows him to make informed decisions on where and how to fish, maximizing his chances of success.

Walters’ dedication to his craft is unmatched. He spends countless hours on the water, refining his skills and pushing the boundaries of what is possible. His commitment to continuous improvement has not only enhanced his own performance but has also inspired aspiring anglers around the world.

While his accomplishments speak for themselves, Walters’ humility and sportsmanship are equally noteworthy. Despite his rising status as one of the best anglers, he remains grounded and approachable, always willing to share his knowledge and insights with fellow anglers. This willingness to give back to the fishing community has endeared him to both fans and fellow competitors alike.

Looking ahead, the future appears bright for Patric Walters. With each passing season, he continues to raise the bar and demonstrate that he is truly one of the best anglers on the water today. As he sets his sights on new challenges and bigger tournaments, it is clear that his passion for fishing and his unwavering dedication will continue to drive him towards even greater success.

In conclusion, Patric Walters has undoubtedly proven himself to be one of the most talented and accomplished anglers of his generation. His versatility, technical skills, and unwavering dedication set him apart from the rest. As he continues to make waves in the angling world, it is safe to say that Patric Walters is a name that will be remembered for years to come.

Contributors NPFL, Patric Walters.com & The Bass Cast.com



Jeff & Jacob Norris Win CATT Lake Wateree, SC Oct 28, 2023

Brian Carter
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Jeff & Jacob Norris Win CATT Lake Wateree, SC Oct 28, 2023

The 2023 Lake Wateree Fall Final is Nov 11 at Molly Creek! You only had to enter 1 to be eligible to enter the Final!

Jacob & Jeff Norris swept the Wateree Fall Series with the win this past Saturday! They win the Wateree Points and will fish the Final Free!

Jacob & Jeff Norris win again on Wateree with 5 bass weighing 15.17 lbs! Great job guys!

Paul Wells & Craig Haven 2nd with 121.45 lbs!

TeamBFWeightWinningsPoints
Jeff Norris & Jacob Norris3.3715.17$400.00110
Paul Wells & Craig Haven3.4012.45$15.00109
Danny Gibson & Steve Newell4.0910.49$35.00108
Butch Williams & Sonny Beam3.387.61107
Jerry Freezon0.000.0097
Total Entrys$400.00
BONUS $$125.00
Total Paid At Ramp$450.00
2023 Wateree Fall Final Fund$50.00
CATT$25.00
2023 CATT Championship$0.00
2023 Wateree Fall Fund Total$280.00



Ken McNeil & Clay Ausley Win CATT Old North Fall Final Jordan Lake, NC Oct 28, 2023

Brian Carter
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Ken McNeil & Clay Ausley Win CATT Old North Fall Final Jordan Lake, NC Oct 28, 2023

The 2024 Spring Old North Schedule is posted! Tap on this link to view!

Ken McNeil & Clay Ausley take 1st Place at Jordan Lake with 5 bass weighing 22.77 lbs! They also won the Old North Fall Points and will fish the 2024 Old North Fall Qualifiers FREE!

TJ Smith & Josh Hooks claimed 2nd with 5 bass weighing 22.52 lbs! They also weighed in the 1st BF at 5.85 lbs! TJ & Josh took home $1,305.00!

TeamBFWeightWinnings
Clay Ausley- Ken McNeil5.3922.77$1,945.00
Josh Hooks – TJ Smith5.8522.52$1,305.00
Ricky Parker – Jody George4.3818.22$370.00
Damon Clark – Nolan Clark0.0016.39
Daniel Dix – Andrew Steagall4.4416.38
Seth Ellis – Doug Stallings0.0014.75
Dale Delaney – Michale Salguero4.6614.42
Zack Huey – John Doughty4.8613.98
Charles Stewart3.9813.67
Rich Z – Todd Sumner0.0011.23
Douglas Phillips – Randy Leonard0.008.56
Roby Wyatt – Mike Prytula0.006.61
Jason Gibson – Quade Lucas4.666.42
Craig Leff – Thomas Sheffer0.004.96
John McClelland – Larry Godfrey0.004.84
Rick Dunstan – Mike Farrell0.003.99



Russell Hoyle & Seth Harrill Win CATT Lake Norman, NC Oct 28, 2023

Brian Carter
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Russell Hoyle & Seth Harrill Win CATT Lake Norman, NC Oct 28, 2023

Next up is Nov 11 at Pinnacle Access! Affordable entry fees with no membership! Come join us!

 $30 per person entry – Optional $50 & $25 Side Pot!

Remember guys you can be eligible to enter the 2023 Phantom Outdoors Classic on Lake Norman December 1-2. 2023 and we are guaranteeing $10,000.00 to 1st Place! (With 100 Teams entered) Not only will Lake Norman teams be fishing but teams from SC, NC & VA CATT Trails are coming! 2022 Phantom Winners took home $14,000.00! See pic below! Tap this link for more info! 2023 Phantom Outdoors Classic – Carolina Anglers Team Trail (cattteamtrail.com)

Seth Harrill & Russell Hoyle weighed up 12.08 lbs on Lake Norman last Saturday securing 1st Place and $1,10.00!

TeamBFWeightWinnings
Russell Hoyle – Seth Harrill3.0512.08$1,100.00
T. J. Rumpf4.1111.09$450.00
Braydon & Jason4.0110.15$150.00
Tom Branhill – Luke Bramhill3.0310.12$100.00
John Harris – Doug Grof0.0010.04
Matt Blankinship0.009.07
Doug Deesch – Josh Cannon0.009.05
Jerry Craig – Mark Connelly2.029.05
John Elliott – Dennis Elliott2.018.06
Jon M – Chayd Freeze0.007.15
Jarrett Freeze2.106.02
Mitch Burgin0.004.01
Chris Passmore – Mike Gauldin0.000.00
Bae Simalayvong – Timothy Yang0.000.00
Ryan Coker0.000.00
Manning Gregory0.000.00
Joel Marcotte0.000.00
Ethan Smith – Alex Van Dyke0.000.00
Logan & Ronnie0.000.00
Mike Spah – Dean Lyons0.000.00
Patrick & Patrick Marshall0.000.00
Banner Gatz0.000.00
Ethan H – Conner Harris0.000.00
Jake Schell – Eric Parker0.000.00
Russell McLean – Will Johnson0.000.00
Shane Sharper – Wendcell Ireland0.000.00
Layton Williams – Colden Little0.000.00
Jacob Webb0.000.00
Troy Shook0.000.00
Deek Lilley – Eric B0.000.00



Fall Smallmouths on Alabama Rigs

Brian Carter
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Fall Smallmouths on Alabama Rigs
Fall Smallmouths on Alabama Rigs
Michigan-based Hardcore Smallmouth Angler Talks Late-Season Specifics
MUSKEGON, Mich. (October 31, 2023) – “Fall is my favorite time of year to throw A-rigs for big smallmouths,” says hardcore Michigan-based bass angler, Kyle Kunst. “The availability of bait is the most important thing when throwing an Alabama Rig in the fall. Bait schools congregate and the smallies go on feeding binges, packing on calories for winter in the shortest amount of time possible.”Given this phenomenon, Kunst says the Alabama Rig makes a great fall smallmouth bass presentation, a pleasant power-fishing departure from the lighter gear and finesse rigs used to tap finicky bites throughout much of the summer. 
Weather Conditions & Target DepthsIn terms of weather, Kunst says he catches more late-season brown bass when there’s “wind and waves” and it’s completely overcast—or the sun is just peeking through the clouds. “I’ve never caught loads of fish on bright, sunny days. My best days are always partly cloudy, windy, or straight overcast and windy. The wind is a critical factor to push the bait around and break up water visibility. A lot of the Michigan lakes I fish are very clear, so chop helps break up the surface and disguise the Alabama Rig since it’s a large, bulky presentation with wires and heavier line. However, when fishing stained waters, I do tend to catch more fish when the sun’s out,” notes Kunst. Kunst targets a wide range of water depths with the Alabama Rig, zones from two feet to 30 feet. “A lot of it depends on water clarity. If the water is more stained, I will target shallow cover. If it’s super clear, smallmouths will typically relate to deeper areas,” says Kunst. He says fishing an Alabama Rig deep isn’t as painstaking as you might think. His order of business is making long casts, letting the rig hit the water surface, and then counting it down 10 to 15 seconds.”Additionally, notes Kunst, forward-facing sonar like LiveScope, MEGA Live, and Active Target has completely changed the A-Rig game. 
“With LiveScope, I can watch my bait fall through the water column in real-time and then monitor it all the way back to the boat. So, you know exactly where your bait’s at in the water column at all times. That’s why I’ve been able to fish an A-Rig out to 25- to 30 feet of water. With LiveScope, I can ensure my rig stays in the strike zone.”When targeting cover vs. open water bait balls, Kunst is a big fan of searching out submerged trees and rock piles that smallmouth bass can sit next to or under, emerging quickly to ambush prey, like a precisely positioned Alabama Rig.In the Michigan lakes that Kunst fishes, predominant forage comprises balls of various year class perch and shiners, but the farther you travel south, you’ll encounter massive schools of gizzard and threadfin shad. The Right, Recommended A-Rig GearKunst fishes a 7’11” heavy power, moderate action baitcasting rod for “pretty good casting distance” as well as rod handle ergonomics that allow him to maintain leverage when casting out a large, heavy umbrella bait. “Another critical thing is using a larger baitcaster,” says Kunst. “I like a size 200 or 300 reel so I can really fill up the larger spool with large diameter 20-pound fluorocarbon, pretty much a staple with the technique.” He adds that a moderate action rod really gives him the ability to “load up” on fish and keep fish pinned once hooked. 
A-Rig SpecificsTalk to a dozen different A-Rig anglers and you’ll get a dozen different ways of how to tweak an Alabama rig. For Kunst, he likes to use two lighter swimbait jig heads on the upper two arms of the umbrella, typically 1/16- or 1/8-ounce jig-heads, outfitting the other three of five arms with heavier heads, typically ¼-ounce, but sometimes heavier (as in 3/8- or 5/16-ounce) depending on the depth fished. Color-wise, Kunst keeps four baits the same color and then chooses a standalone color for the very back, middle arm and swim-style jig-head. “I like to make the back, middle bait an outlier and look a little different because roughly 80% of the time that’s the bait the bass will end up eating. Sometimes they’ll eat the bottom one, but typically it’s that back, middle one. So I like to make that bait look a little different to give ‘em something to key in on.”Over the years, Kunst has experimented with lots of different umbrella rig designs, finally opting for a 6th Sense Fishing Divine Model that tracks true and he can rely on cast after cast. “The 6th Sense Fishing Divine umbrella rig rocks, as does their screw-in swimbait heads, which I also use. They keep my 6th Sense Divine and Whale swimbaits locked on, so if fish swings and misses, they won’t pull off.”In terms of swimbait lengths, Kunst likes 3” or 3 ¼” baits on the top two and bottom two arms. He’ll then step up to a 3 ½” to 4” soft plastics on the back, middle bait to give it “that outlier look and feel.”
A-Rig Retrieve Cadence“The most important thing I’ve found about fishing smallies with A-Rigs is how you retrieve the bait,” offers Kunst. “A lot of anglers just cast it out and reel it straight back, which will work from time to time. But the thing I’ve kind of picked up over the years that has triggered most of my strikes has been a system that starts with the cast. First, you cast the bait out, then you count it down to the strike zone or watch your LiveScope to let it fall toward the fish, start reeling consistently for a few seconds, and right when your bait gets close to where the fish are set-up, you want to pulse that reel. Every 5 to 10 seconds give that bait a good pulse. That makes the rig open up and pulse. Then burn it for a second and go back to your consistent reel speed. That’ll make the rig pulse and open up and then close back up to the way it was before. I do that 3 to 4 times per cast, if not more, especially if I know there are fish right around my bait.”Kunst adds that with forward-facing sonar an angler can watch his/her rig, watch fish follow it, and then give it a pulse or two to trigger strikes in real-time. “The biggest thing about fishing an A-Rig is actually getting those fish to commit, because a lot times they’ll just follow the bait all the way back to the boat. Give it some erratic action and that’ll often trigger boat-following fish to strike.” Kunst says that fished in this manner, there are numerous times when he’s been able to catch two fish on the same cast because they’ll trail the bait to the boat, and as soon as one fires up, the other fish follows. Kunst is hoping for three fish or better on the same rig, but to-date has never caught more than two at a time. “Depending on the state regulations where you’re fishing, you must abide by the number of hooks you can have on your A-Rig. In Michigan we can fish five hooks, so that’s a pretty sweet rig,” adds Kunst. 
DRESSING FOR COLD WEATHER FISHING
It Ain’t Over ‘Til IceAs mentioned, Michigan-based smallmouth fanatic, Kyle Kunst, is hardcore, fishing right up until ice forms at the boat launches in December.To keep warm on the water, Kunst wears base layers, sweatpants, and then covers with Whitewater Tamer Bibs. On top, he wears a long-sleeve t-shirt, a Whitewater Buoy Hoodie, and the Whitewater Torque Heated Vest if it’s really cold.“Especially if there’s wind, I’ll throw on the Whitewater Tamer Jacket over the Torque heated vest, too, to break up the wind on those really cold, late-fall days the closer we get to ice-up. It’s great to have that windproof piece to keep your thermals in. The other thing I like to wear is some sort of wool gloves, like the new Whitewater prototype I’m currently testing, which has been both warm and fishable so far.”
WHITEWATER Tamer Softshell Jacket Windproof breathable softshell polyester stretch fabric DWR treated to repel moisture 3-piece hood adjustable for fit Sleeve, chest & back shoulder reflective tape for visibility Two sewn-in D-rings (lower ring for safety cord, upper ring for trolling motor and shallow water anchor fobs) Two waist pockets & a welded chest pocket to keep gear dry Sleeve insert with a built-in thumbhole opening for security Jacket comes in Grayish “Shade” w/black accents (270) MSRP: $219.99 (SM-3XL) 
WHITEWATER Tamer Fishing Bib Windproof breathable softshell polyester stretch fabric DWR treated to repel moisture Multiple reflective tape placements for visibility Two sewn-in D-rings (lower ring for safety cord, upper ring for trolling motor and shallow water anchor fobs) Three pockets (2 cargo, 1 chest) to keep gear dry Covered leg zippers for easy dressing over boots Adjustable silicone suspenders with grip Bib comes in black “Charcoal” MSRP: $219.99 (SM-3XL) 
WHITEWATER Buoy Fishing Hoodie Comfortable, durable cotton/poly blend DWR treated to repel moisture Adjustable shock cord & locks for hood adjustments Front & back shoulder reflective tape for visibility Zip closure kangaroo pouch pocket Rig knit cuff and waist for a secure fit Hoodie comes in black “Charcoal”; Breaker Blue; and Buoy Red MSRP: $99.99 (SM-3XL) 
Torque Insulated Heated Vest: One touch button delivers three levels of heat on-demand via a built-in USB power cable in the pocket DWR treated nylon shell repels moisture Reflective logo touchpoints for visibility Smooth polyester lining 80g Primaloft Silver insulation for warmth Lycra binding for a snug fit Three pockets for storage (1 chest, 2 waist) 5V/2A power bank sold separatelyMSRP $219.99
 



How to Break Down a Pond When Fishing from the Banks?🌳🎣🏞️

Brian Carter
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0
How to Break Down a Pond When Fishing from the Banks?🌳🎣🏞️

Bass fishing from the banks of a pond can be an exhilarating experience, allowing you to connect with nature and test your skills against these elusive freshwater predators. However, without the luxury of a boat, it becomes even more crucial to effectively break down the pond and maximize your chances of success. In this article, we will explore some essential tips and techniques to help you break down a pond when fishing from the banks, ensuring an enjoyable and fruitful fishing adventure. 🌅🎣🏞️

  1. Observe and Explore 🚶👀🧭
    Before casting your line, take some time to observe and explore the pond to gain insights into its structure and potential bass hiding spots. Walk around the banks, paying close attention to any visible signs of cover such as fallen trees, submerged vegetation, or rocky areas. These are often prime locations where bass seek refuge and ambush their prey. Additionally, observe the water’s movement and look for signs of bass activity such as surface disturbances or baitfish schools. This initial reconnaissance will help you identify potential hotspots and develop a strategy for your fishing approach.
  2. Start with the Basics 🎣🔍🎣
    When breaking down a pond from the banks, it’s essential to start with the basics. Begin by equipping yourself with a variety of versatile lures that can cover different depth ranges and mimic various prey species. A few must-have lures include soft plastic worms, crankbaits, topwater lures, and spinnerbaits. These baits provide a well-rounded selection to target bass at different depths and under various conditions.
  3. Cover the Water Column 🌊📏🎣
    To increase your chances of hooking a bass, it’s crucial to cover the water column effectively. Start by targeting the shallower areas closer to the banks, as they tend to hold bass seeking cover or searching for food. Cast parallel to the shoreline and work your lures back towards you, making sure to explore areas near any visible cover or structure. As you gain confidence and understanding of the pond, gradually extend your casts towards deeper water, probing various depths to find where the bass are holding.
  4. Vary Your Techniques and Retrieves 🔄🎣💨
    Bass can be finicky creatures, and their preferences can change throughout the day or in response to changing weather conditions. To increase your chances of enticing a strike, it’s crucial to vary your fishing techniques and retrieves. Experiment with different retrieval speeds, pauses, and jerks to imitate injured or fleeing prey. For example, if a steady retrieve isn’t working, try a stop-and-go retrieve or incorporate occasional twitches to trigger a reaction from the bass. The key is to be adaptable and willing to switch up your approach until you find what works best on that particular day.
  5. Pay Attention to Details 🕵️🎣🔍
    Successful bank fishing in a pond requires paying attention to even the smallest details. Keep an eye out for any signs of baitfish activity, such as splashes or small ripples, as they often indicate the presence of bass nearby. Also, be aware of any changes in water clarity or temperature. Bass are highly sensitive to their environment, and being aware of these subtle changes can help you make adjustments to your bait selection or presentation.
  6. Stay Mobile and Be Patient 🚶⏳🎣
    Lastly, when fishing from the banks, it’s essential to stay mobile and be patient. While it may be tempting to stay in one spot for an extended period, continuously moving along the banks allows you to explore different areas and increase your chances of finding active bass. Remember, bass are constantly on the move, and by staying mobile, you increase your odds of intercepting them.

In conclusion, breaking down a pond when fishing from the banks requires careful observation, versatile lure selection, and adaptability. By paying attention to the details, covering the water column effectively, and exploring different techniques and retrieves, you can increase your chances of hooking that elusive bass. So grab your gear, put on your walking shoes, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature as you embark on a thrilling bank fishing adventure. Tight lines! 🌳🎣🏞️



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