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DAIWA goes all out new 23 model lineup of 2025 TATULA cork handle bass rods

Covering Your Bass…Again
DAIWA goes all out new 23 model lineup of 2025 TATULA cork handle bass rods
FOOTHILL RANCH, CA (March 21, 2025) – From skipping docks with the utmost accuracy, to bombing lures long-distances to cover more water, anglers can rely on DAIWA’s new 23 model 2025 TATULA bass rod series, each designed for specific fishing situations and techniques. The rods are part of DAIWA’s long list of new bass tackle being introduced at the Bassmaster Classic Expo – and are now shipping to tackle shops throughout the U.S. and Canada. Each of the 13 casting and 10 spinning rods retail for $149.99 (USD).
All featuring cork handles, the new TATULA rods are as much as 15% lighter than the previous TATULA series. DAIWA employs its exclusive SVF (Super High Volume Fiber) Nanoplus Technology to lighten and strength the blank. They are also reinforced with DAIWA’s X45 bias carbon technology and Braiding X construction process to resist twisting, provide needed hook-setting power, and maintain rod integrity during high-stress situations. The TATULA series includes two specialized casting models for cranking – the TATULA 701MHRB-G and 721HRB-G, where DAIWA uses its advanced GLATECH construction process with the fiberglass blanks.
Anglers will also see DAIWA’s new TATULA custom rod seats on all models, along with Fuji Concept ‘O’ guides with aluminum oxide. All the rods are backed by DAIWA’s 5-year limited warranty.“Going back now a decade with our TATULA branded rod and reels, we keep bringing advancements to show anglers that our slogan – We’ve Got Your Bass Covered – holds true to this day,” said DAIWA’s Marketing Director, Marc Mills. “These next generation TATULA bass rods continue DAIWA’s intense focus on bass fishing, as we bring new models that reflect the right rod lengths, actions, and powers to keep up with new trends in the sport.”
Within the casting models, there are TATULA rods in 6’8”, 6’10”, 7’, 7’2”, 7’3”, 7’4” lengths to cover a wide range of applications, and even a 7’9” heavy action for casting big swimbaits and A-rigs. In the spinning versions, anglers will find rods ranging from 6’8” up to 7’6”, designed for everything from finesse and forward facing sonar situations, to the right actions for Ned rigs, shakey heads, dropshots, and even smaller swimbaits.Have all your bass fishing needs covered with DAIWA’s new TATULA bass series. For more info, visit https://DAIWA.us/products/25-TATULA-cork-rods.
For DAIWA’s latest color catalog and/or information on DAIWA dealers in your area, call DAIWA’s Customer Service Department at 562-375-6800 or e-mail inquiries to: [email protected]. The URL for DAIWA’s web site is daiwa.us





Bass Fishing in Tough Conditions!

Spring bass fishing demands a fresh mindset every time you hit the water. Conditions can shift overnight with changing weather, moon phases, or water levels, and bass often respond by relocating or changing behavior. Don’t let a slow day discourage you from giving it your all the next morning. Instead of forcing the same pattern repeatedly, adapt and approach the day as if you’re fishing a new lake. Keeping a clear head and a flexible strategy is often what separates successful anglers from frustrated ones. Bass are especially sensitive in spring, and a subtle change in temperature or water color can cause them to completely reposition. That means yesterday’s productive spot might just be empty today, but a nearby area with slightly better conditions could be loaded. By staying open to change, you give yourself the chance to reconnect with active fish more quickly. Pay attention to what the day is offering instead of what you hoped would happen. The best anglers learn to expect the unexpected and treat every outing as a brand-new puzzle to solve. Every shift in weather, light, or water movement is a clue that can bring you one cast closer to your next bite.Our Fresh HellaMite is designed to imitate a major aquatic food source, delivering a realistic profile of an insect larva that fish can’t resist. Scented for complete and total attraction underwater along with being made in the USA by real fishermen just like you. Grab our newest Lil Bass, Hot Sauce, MidNight, Glow, 10w30 Synthetic, Slimer Green, and Barbie Pink HellaMite colors. Act quickly, these new colors won’t stay in stock for long. We also recently restocked our Ghost, Red Bug, Purple Rain, Brown Bug, Electric Chicken, and Goby Wan colors. The HellaMite’s solid body and hyperactive ribbed tail design produce a life-like quivering action with every twitch of the rod. Its unique flat underbelly detail enables this bait to be fished as a drop shot, Ned rig, neko rig, and even a small Carolina-rig, making it the ideal bait in any condition year-round. When the water is clear, the fish can see the bait and look like real food, causing strikes. Each cast becomes an opportunity for an exhilarating catch, thanks to its superior performance and versatility.
Springtime brings unstable conditions, sunny and calm one day, muddy and windy the next. Being successful means adjusting your tactics on the fly, from changing depths to modifying your retrieve speed. Soft plastics like lizards, beetles, and cray-styled baits offer versatility for adapting to various water temperatures and clarity levels. Have multiple setups ready, ranging from finesse presentations to more aggressive approaches. Let the current conditions dictate your technique, not your favorite way to fish. Pay close attention to subtle cues, like how bass respond to a faster versus slower fall rate, or whether they’re holding tight to cover or roaming open flats. Some days they’ll want a slow-dragged beetle, other days a hopping lizard near structure gets their attention. Adaptation isn’t just about switching baits; it’s about adjusting your mindset, tempo, and areas of focus. Even small changes like line size or hook weight can make a big difference in spring. The more tools and tactics you’re willing to try, the more consistent your results will be. In spring fishing, flexibility isn’t just helpful, it’s essential for staying in tune with ever-changing weather conditions.We use our Fresh Scorpion because it closely imitates a crawfish. Our newest 10w30 Synthetic, Slimer Green, and Barbie Pink Scorpion colors work wonders. The Scorpion is a revolutionary new look to soft plastics. Its intricate detailing and texture mimic the nuances of a real crawfish, making it hard for bass to resist. Of course, water clarity always plays a role in color selection but in any season, you can’t miss using colors such as Green Pumpkin SeedBrown BarkMagneto. This bait not only appears natural to fish but gives them something to become curious about. The Scorpion paired with a stand-up jig is deadly because the jig actually sits the bait upright in a defensive stance. The subtle color variations across the bait further enhance its appeal, mimicking the natural color shifts found in live prey. Each Fresh Scorpion has a unique and exclusive 3-axis tail design that is engineered like no other soft plastic bait. Our Scorpions are made by anglers from high-grade non-salt plastic to provide superior life-like action-triggering strikes!
One of the biggest mistakes spring anglers make is fishing based on where the bass should be located, instead of where they actually are. Just because a certain creek or stretch produced in past seasons doesn’t mean it will now, especially if water clarity, flow, or temperature has changed. If your go-to spot is now blown out or muddy, don’t try to force a bite. explore new water that better fits the present scenario. Bass are constantly adjusting to their environment, and you should too. Focus on the present and let the current conditions lead your decisions. The more you rely on real-time observations, like baitfish presence, water temperature shifts, or subtle current breaks, the more in tune you’ll be with where bass are positioned. Look for cleaner water, protected coves, or warmer pockets instead of defaulting to history. Even on familiar lakes, fish will often hold in entirely different places year to year based on how spring unfolds. Staying mobile and open to change allows you to stay one step ahead. It’s not about where the fish used to be, it’s about where they’re feeding now. Trust your instincts, not just your memories.The new FreshBaitz Lizards deliver a realistic profile that excels in both power and finesse techniques. Act fact, we just released new Hot Sauce, MidNight, Ghost, and 10w30 Syntheic Lizard designs! The unique forward-facing leg design creates drag that holds it in the strike zone longer or produces wild flapping action with every pull of the rod. Additionally, its slightly ribbed solid body and large head hold your hook in place and provide much better weedless performance making it the ideal bait to use in any condition. Water clarity always plays a super big role in color selection but in any season year-round, you can’t miss when using colors such as Watermelon Red, Black & Blue, or Green Pumpkin. Its flexible tail design ensures added movement, tempting even the most cautious fish. The superior 5.5-inch profile stretches to a whole 7 inches which is perfect for predatory fish including bass year round. Made from long-lasting durable high-grade non-salted plastic for total and maximum attention-grabbing action underwater.
Spending too much time in an unproductive area can quickly burn through your day. A good habit in spring is to give a spot about ten minutes, if you don’t get bites or signs of life, it’s time to change something. That might mean switching from a beetle-style bait to a worm, or moving from shallow cover to a nearby drop-off. Keep experimenting until something clicks. Bass behavior in spring is too unpredictable to rely on just one spot or technique for too long. This rule helps you stay efficient and prevents you from mentally locking into a non-productive pattern. It’s not about rushing, it’s about keeping your time purposeful and reactive to what the fish are doing. Sometimes just a short relocation or small bait adjustment can uncover a bite window you would’ve otherwise missed. Use your instincts and observations to guide each change you make. Over the course of the day, these quick decisions can make the difference between a tough outing and a standout one. Efficiency and adaptability go hand in hand when chasing bass in rough conditions.Our Fresh Beetle delivers ultimate versatility in a soft plastic bait. Its slim yet wide body design and four claws are engineered to naturally glide and wobble as it moves through the water. This design ensures they remain enticingly active longer than conventional baits. Its unique texture also provides a realistic feel, making bass hold on longer once they bite. Water clarity plays a big role in color selection but year-round you can’t miss when using go-to colors such as Chocolate MintOx Blood, or 10w30 Synthetic beetles. The hyper-active swimming claws are designed thin with long-lasting durable non-salt plastic to make them come alive with the slightest movement. The Fresh Beetle offers an enticing 4-inch profile and is scented for complete and total attraction! You can rig these Beetles as a Jig/ Chatter Trailer, Flippin/ Punching, Texas Rig, Swing Jig, and Carolina Rig. Making the beetle beyond perfect in any weather condition year-round!
Before doing anything else, start by identifying what phase of the season the bass are in pre-spawn, spawn, or post-spawn. Each stage leads bass to predictable areas like staging points, flats, or bedding zones. Once you’ve pinpointed that seasonal pattern, fine-tune your approach with soft plastics like insect larva or lizards to match the mood of the fish. Think of the seasonal pattern as the framework, and your bait and technique as the fine brush strokes. This gives your search purpose and helps you dial in faster, even on unfamiliar water. By narrowing your focus to likely zones for that specific stage, you avoid wasting time on water that simply doesn’t hold fish. Water temperature is a critical clue—knowing whether it’s climbing into the 50s, 60s, or beyond will tell you a lot about bass behavior. Pay attention to subtle cues like increased sun exposure on northern banks or the presence of roaming baitfish. Seasonal patterns are reliable starting points, but always adjust based on what the fish are telling you that day. With a strong foundation, you can build a productive game plan even under unpredictable conditions.Using a stick-styled worm is the most tried and true ways to catch fish. We have a variety of 5-inch Worms to choose from but we just added new MidNight, Glow, and Ghost Worms! Our popular Wild Cherry Worms have been restocked as well. You can also experience our new wacky rigging kit while it’s ON SALE! The WACKY Pack offers our most popular colors and essential tools for wacky rigging. If you’re fast enough you might be able to grab the limited-release Pumpkin Spice Worm before it’s completely sold out along with some of our newest colors including the Brown WormElectric Chicken Worm, and Goby Wan Worm colors. The high-grade non-salt plastic they’re made from provides positive buoyancy and it even floats underwater! We also released new 6-inch Worms including Charmeleon, Rainbow TRT, Bone, Chocolate Mint, and Fire TGR — all available in 5 and 6-inch. We’ve also recently released new 8-count packs of worms available in Watermelon RedBlack & Blue, and Green Pumpkin. We also offer worms that have the unique ability to shift from one color to another. Scented for total attraction underwater.
You don’t need a dozen different baits to succeed during the  spring, you just need the right area and the right approach. Confidence is key, so stick with a few soft plastics you trust, like worms or crayfish imitations, and focus on covering water effectively. The goal is to put a bait in front of as many fish as possible, rather than overanalyzing colors or rigging. When visibility is low or fish are scattered, movement and location matter more than exact bait profiles. Simplicity helps you stay efficient and focused when things get tough. Just by  eliminating unnecessary decisions, you free up your attention for reading water conditions and tracking how bass are responding. Covering more water gives you a better chance of intersecting with active fish, especially during transitional periods. Once you get a few bites, you can slow down and refine your approach in that area. Trusting your core setup allows you to move with confidence and make smarter adjustments on the fly. Sometimes less truly is more, especially when spring bass are unpredictable. The more time your bait spends in the strike zone, the better your chances.Our newest FreshBaitz Mandingo Trick Worm is the ultimate game-changer for anglers with a passion! Engineered for the angler who knows SIZE does matter, this lure is designed to attract only the BIGGEST bass with a penchant for the larger bait. The Mandingo Trick Worm boasts a solid 7-inch body enhanced with a hyperactive ribbed design, ensuring irresistible mouth-watering action for those trophy bass. Officially available in a vibrant array of 8 colors. Each worm is made from durable, high-grade Non-Salted plastic for lifelike action and unparalleled durability. Perfectly balanced for a variety of rigging options and scented for total and maximum attraction, the Mandingo Trick Worm promises year-round effectiveness in lakes, rivers, and streams. Whether you’re rigging it on a Shakey Head, Drop Shot, Texas Rig, or Carolina Rig, these worms are your ticket to landing the big ones. Proudly made in the USA by real anglers to help elevate your fishing experience and catch more bass year-round!
When conditions are tough, the most important thing you can do is slow down and pay attention. Bass in spring may relate to subtle differences along a bank, an isolated stump, a patch of submerged grass, or a slight bend in the current. Anglers downsizing to a finesse worm or beetle-style bait and moving slowly can help trigger bites from fish that aren’t actively feeding. Take note of where and how you’re getting bit and try to replicate that situation elsewhere. Success often lies in small patterns hidden within bigger ones. Even the direction of your cast or the angle of your retrieve can make a real noticeable difference. Watch for clues like swirls, baitfish activity, or a sudden temperature change along a stretch of shoreline. These subtle indicators often reveal the true sweet spots when conditions are tough. By fishing methodically and staying alert to small changes, you’ll start to uncover patterns others may overlook. Patience and attention to detail often outperform speed and aggression during finicky spring bites. Slow fishing doesn’t mean lazy fishing, it means fishing with purpose, focus, and precision to land more trophy bass.We have a wide variety of terminal tackle to choose from, but we’ve recently released new Nako Tungsten Tear Drop Shot Weights, crafted from 97% eco-friendly tungsten for stealth, durability, and vibration, with easy-to-read size stamps and a crimped swivel for quick changes. The new Haymaker EWG Worm Hooks are also now available, featuring an extra-wide gap for various soft plastics, a Z-lock shoulder bend for secure bait placement, and an angled-up super needle point for fast, powerful hooksets. For creature-styled baits, a more popular choice to use is the Stand-Up Jig because it sits the bait up-right in a defensive stance! Mosquito Hooks work for dropshotting and perfectly accommodates a wide range of soft plastics. The popular All Purpose Hooks are built with an extra-wide gap and are made to accommodate a wide range of soft plastics. The Block Head Jig is perfect for ned rigging the HellaMite with its mushroom-style head that seamlessly matches a wide variety of soft plastics. The Offset Block Head Jig, offers the same mushroom-style head with a unique offset hook, making it a go-to for weedless Ned Rig applications. The Shakey Ultrahead can permanently secure baits by inserting the pin in the center and screwing the twist lock coil spring for perfect rigging every time! The Ultrahead Wacky Jig features precise weight positioning and hook orientation for the ultimate wacky presentations. For fast Texas rigging, we use the Bullet-Type Rig which has an attached weight saving you pressure time when fishing cover. The 4x Jungle Flippin Hook is designed for big fish and the toughest conditions. The Range Roller Jig Head is crafted for precision with its high center axis design, perfect for hover-strolling and mid to bottom strolling with forward facing sonar, ensuring an enticing rolling action that triggers bites. We also just release New Keep’em Fresh Bait Bags! These bags are the ultimate solution for anglers who need their gear to perform. Built like a tank, this bag is 20x stronger than regular zip bags and offers 100% waterproof protection with a rock-solid double zipper seal. Whether it’s for soft plastics, snacks, or your smartphone, this reusable and versatile bag keeps everything safe from the water, mud, and grime. Lightweight yet spacious, it fits snugly in your tackle box or backpack, making it perfect for your next adventure.





The Thrill and Challenge of the Bass Spawn

Introduction

When the bass spawn arrives, anglers experience an electrifying period on the water. This time marks not only a heightened chance for a big catch but also a unique window into the dramatic life cycle of one of freshwater fishing’s most prized species. During the spawn, bass become unusually active and aggressive. However, their vulnerability increases as well, setting up a natural tug-of-war between nature’s rhythms and angler ambitions. In this expanded discussion, we explore the complex behavior of bass during the spawning season, the fishing opportunities it creates, and the ecological challenges that must be managed to preserve this natural phenomenon.

A Time of Increased Activity and Aggression

Bass spawning is a reproductive phase during which fish, driven by a deep biological imperative, vigorously prepare for the future. As water temperatures begin to climb above 60°F (approximately 15°C) in the spring, bass shift from their winter haunts into shallower, warmer waters. Here, males build nests—carefully clearing and fanning substrates like sand, gravel, or even vegetation—to create a safe haven for their eggs. During this period, males exhibit extraordinary territorial behavior. They aggressively defend their nests against intruders, whether those intruders are rival bass, small forage fish, or even fishing lures that resemble potential threats.

This territorial drive is what makes spawn time so exciting for anglers. The bass are more visible, their movements more frantic, and their defensive strikes can be sudden and powerful. Lures that mimic small fish or crawfish can trigger these aggressive reactions, and many anglers take advantage of this by using topwater baits, soft plastics, and even specially scented baits designed to exploit the bass’s heightened state of alert.

The Dual-Edged Sword of Vulnerability

While the spawn offers an abundance of opportunities for catch, it also exposes bass to increased risks. With their attention fully absorbed by nest defense, bass become less adept at evading natural predators. Birds such as herons and ospreys, as well as predatory fish like pike or muskie, take advantage of this moment of distraction. Studies have documented how nesting bass are particularly susceptible to predation during this vulnerable period, which in turn can have long-term impacts on local fish populations if not managed responsibly.

This delicate balance has sparked debates among anglers and conservationists alike. Responsible fishing during spawn is crucial—not only for ensuring that anglers get a thrilling fight but also for safeguarding the future of the bass population. Many regions now advocate catch-and-release practices during the spawning season and even enforce temporary fishing closures to protect nesting fish from overharvesting.

Impact on Fishing Techniques and Angling Strategy

Anglers who understand the nuances of bass spawning are better equipped to tailor their techniques for optimal success. During the early stages of the spawn, when male bass are actively constructing and defending nests, lures that mimic disturbances or potential predators can provoke aggressive strikes. Fast, erratic retrieves or even a paused, twitchy presentation can sometimes set off a defensive reaction in a nest-guarding bass.

As the spawn progresses and females visit the beds to lay eggs, the overall aggression may slightly subside—but the opportunity remains. Many anglers report that during this time, a delicate balance is needed: too aggressive a presentation might scare the fish, while too gentle an approach might not trigger the necessary defensive instinct. Lures that are smaller and more subtle—such as finesse worms, light jig presentations, or even softly trolled jerk baits—often yield better results during this nuanced period.

Ecological Considerations and Conservation

The spawning period is not just a prime time for sport; it’s a critical moment in the bass life cycle. Healthy spawning success ensures a robust population of future bass, which supports not only recreational fishing but also the ecological balance of freshwater systems. For instance, when bass spawn, the sheer number of eggs laid (often in the tens of thousands) serves as a natural buffer against predation. Even if many eggs are consumed by predators, enough survive to sustain and grow the population.

However, excessive fishing pressure during the spawn can disrupt this balance. Anglers who repeatedly remove nest-guarding bass risk causing the fish to abandon their nests. Once a male abandons a nest, predators can quickly decimate the remaining eggs, reducing the overall reproductive success of the population. That is why many fisheries management programs now stress responsible angling techniques during the spawn and promote catch-and-release practices to preserve the delicate natural order.

Conclusion

The impact of the bass spawn on fishing is undeniable. It is a time of heightened aggression, increased visibility, and unparalleled challenge—providing anglers with the thrilling opportunity to engage with one of nature’s most dynamic phenomena. Yet, this period also serves as a reminder of the fragility of natural systems. Anglers, by practicing responsible fishing methods and respecting the reproductive cycle of bass, ensure that this dramatic spectacle will continue to be a cornerstone of freshwater fishing for generations to come.

In the end, the bass spawn is not just about the fight on the line; it is about understanding and preserving the intricate balance of nature. Every cast during this season is an invitation to witness the raw power of life—and to participate, respectfully, in its ongoing cycle.





2024 class of High School All-Americans honored on Bassmaster Classic stage

The 2024 class of High School All-Americans were honored on stage at the 2025 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.

Photo by Seigo Saito/B.A.S.S

March 21, 2025

2024 class of High School All-Americans honored on Bassmaster Classic stage

FORT WORTH, Texas — The 2024 Bassmaster High School All-American Fishing Team were treated to a trip to Dickies Arena to be recognized on the 2025 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour stage ahead of the Day 1 weigh-in. This is the first time in the program’s history the All-American class has been honored on the Classic stage.

For the past decade, the Bassmaster High School All-American Fishing Team has recognized and celebrated the top high school anglers across the country. These student-athletes demonstrate outstanding performance on the water, dedication to conservation efforts and commitment to their communities. The 2024 class of 12 talented anglers continued this tradition of excellence and were recognized for this incredible achievement.

Since its inception, the Bassmaster High School All-American program has launched the careers of numerous anglers who have competed at the highest levels, including the St. Croix Bassmaster Opens presented by SEVIIN, Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series and even the prestigious Bassmaster Classic. These young anglers are the future of the sport, inspiring upcoming generations through their skill and dedication.

This year, nearly 300 applications were submitted from 31 states. From this talented pool, 45 students were named Bassmaster All-State Anglers, with the final 12 honorees selected based on their tournament success, conservation initiatives and community service efforts. This year, each All-American was awarded a B.A.S.S. Life Membership.

Meet the 2024 Bassmaster High School All-American Team

Carsen Adcock – Haughton, La.

A junior at Haughton High School, Adcock has four wins, including the 2023 Bassmaster High School Series event on the Red River and the North Louisiana B.A.S.S. Nation event on Toledo Bend. His commitment to community service includes involvement in local churches and lake cleanup initiatives. Academically, he maintains a 3.81 GPA while excelling in multiple extracurricular activities.

Elijah Coleman – Mount Sterling, Ky.

Coleman, a senior at Montgomery County High School, secured three wins, including the 2024 High School Fishing World Finals and National Championship. He has a passion for conservation, assisting Kentucky Fish and Wildlife in habitat restoration, and maintains a 4.0 GPA while balancing an advanced course load.

Max Flatten – Watertown, S.D.

Flatten, a senior at Watertown High School, boasts three wins, including the South Dakota TBF High School State Championship (back-to-back years). He is actively involved in community outreach programs, including Sportsmen Against Hunger and local bass fishing clubs, all while maintaining a 3.35 GPA.

Rylan Hamlin – Jackson, Mich.

Hamlin’s dominance includes 24 wins, highlighted by the 2024 Michigan B.A.S.S. Nation High School State Championship. His passion for mentorship and conservation extends beyond competition, and he balances his dedication to fishing with a 3.59 GPA.

Kyle Herrman – Topeka, Kan.

A senior at Jefferson West High School, Herrman has earned four wins and has qualified for the Bassmaster High School National Championship three times. He actively mentors youth anglers and participates in lake improvement projects while maintaining a 4.0 GPA.

Nicholas Herrman – Topeka, Kan.

The twin brother of Kyle, Nicholas boasts five tournament wins, including the 2024 Kansas TBF High School State Championship. He volunteers in youth fishing programs and maintains a 4.0 GPA, excelling in academics and athletics.

Presley Lannom – Lebanon, Tenn.

Lannom, a junior, secured seven wins, including the 2023 Tennessee B.A.S.S. Nation High School event on Douglas Lake. He is a leader in conservation efforts and maintains a 3.62 GPA while running a podcast featuring professional anglers.

Kael Moore – Cedar Falls, Iowa

Moore, a junior at Cedar Falls High School, has seven wins, including the Iowa High School Bass Team Championship. A multi-sport athlete, he founded his school’s bass team and maintains a 4.0 GPA.

Tanner Moulton – Enfield, N.H.

Moulton, a senior, has nine wins, including the 2023 NHIAA State Championship. He is a student-athlete leader involved in multiple sports and community outreach programs, maintaining a 3.7 GPA.

Grace Olsen – Gardner, Ill.

Olsen, a senior, has one win and eight Top 5 finishes, qualifying her to compete in Zimbabwe with the USAngling USA Bass High School Youth Team. She excels in leadership and community service, maintaining a 3.56 GPA.

Dylan Sorrells – Dallas, Texas

Sorrells has six wins, including the THSBA event on Lake Lewisville, and is the THSBA Metro Division Angler of the Year. He dedicates over 300 hours to youth fishing education and maintains a 3.43 GPA.

Joe Vaulton – Knoxville, Tenn.

Vaulton, a senior, has eight wins and two Angler of the Year titles. He is heavily involved in conservation, tournament fundraising, and mentorship programs while maintaining a 4.2 GPA.

Congratulations to the 2024 Bassmaster High School All-American Team.





McKinney overcomes early nerves to take Day 1 Classic lead

Illinois’ Trey McKinney leads Day 1 of the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour in Fort Worth, Texas, with a weight of 26-9.

Photo by Seigo Saito/B.A.S.S.

March 21, 2025

McKinney overcomes early nerves to take Day 1 Classic lead

2025_BMC_BPS-title_UAPresenting_vFinal@4x 1.png

FORT WORTH, Texas — When Trey McKinney hopped onto the stage at the 2025 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour, the infectious beat of “Church Clap” by Christian hip-hop artist KB filled Dickies Arena.

Though conventional wisdom says don’t ever change what’s working, McKinney’s hype song might as well be “The Kids are Alright” by The Who, because things are, indeed, quite alright for the whiz kid from Carbondale, Ill.

McKinney, who celebrated his 20th birthday only last month, holds the Day 1 lead in the world’s most-celebrated fishing tournament. His limit of five bass totaled 26-9 and gave him a 1-pound cushion over Canada’s Cory Johnston, who’s in second with 25-9.

Rounding out the Top 5 in the 56-angler field are, third, Minnesota’s Easton Fothergill, 24-15; fourth, Wisconsin’s Jay Przekurat, 23-7; and fifth, Texas pro Lee Livesay (who many pundits consider the favorite here,) with 23-0. The entire field will fish again Saturday, and the Top 25 anglers will make Sunday’s cut, with the winner pocketing $300,000 cash.

McKinney’s performance in B.A.S.S. events has belied his youth from the start. At 18, he finished second in the Bassmaster Opens EQ standings and became the youngest angler ever to qualify for the Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series. He took the Elites by storm, too, winning Dakota Lithium Bassmaster Elite Series Rookie of the Year honors in 2024 and finishing second in the Progressive Bassmaster Angler of the Year standings.

McKinney started his first Classic with a bang, too, when he hooked a 7-pounder just after 9 a.m. He admitted his nerves were getting the best of him before he hooked that big fish.

“I could hardly breathe for a while,” McKinney said. “It was a disaster. I was throwing in trees, throwing in bushes, getting hung up. But you catch a 7-pounder and that makes everything alright. At that point, I knew I just needed to get four more bites. Whether we’re leading it or we’re close, it didn’t matter. What mattered was I didn’t lose it on the first day.”

McKinney’s next two catches (a 5-pounder and a 4-8) gave him 16 1/2 pounds and the tournament lead just after 10 a.m. He rounded out his bag with a pair of 4-12 bass caught just after noon.

McKinney’s sonar electronics malfunctioned about 1 p.m. on Friday after running through some big waves on the lake, which roiled under steady 15-20 mph winds. But with 26 pounds already in the livewell, McKinney knew he’d put himself in position to make a run at the 55th annual Bassmaster Classic title. He said he’ll continue looking for “fresh ones” — bass that haven’t been fished over in days and perhaps are moving toward shore to spawn.

“It’s the end of March,” he said. “They’re coming at some point, whether it’s to spawn or coming to the trees I’m fishing. Some fish are going to be moving around. I want the ones that haven’t seen a bait every five minutes.”

Johnston, who finished third in the 2024 AOY standings courtesy of two Elite Series wins, was right behind McKinney with a robust 25-9 limit. He said he’s found a pattern rotating into different water depths and searching for specific cover. He pounded more than 20 different spots Friday on Ray Roberts and expects to do more of the same on Day 2.

“Whenever I can find the right cover, I feel like they’ll bite,” Johnston said. “They’re all tight to cover, right on the bottom. I’m not gonna leave any fish out there tomorrow … I didn’t back off today. I went looking for a lot of new water today. I pulled what I could.”

Fothergill is third with 24-15 and like McKinney, is accustomed to the spotlight of early success. He finished 16th at last year’s Classic on Oklahoma’s Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees as a 21-year-old, and he notched a pair of Bassmaster Open victories later in 2024. It was a continuation of Fothergill’s memorable 2023 season when he won the Bassmaster College Classic Bracket while a student at the University of Montevallo (Ala.).

“It definitely helps, being here at the Classic last year,” he said. “There’s much less nerves this year … I have a lot better understanding of what to expect.”

Fothergill caught two of the heaviest bass weighed Friday, including a 6-4 in the morning and a 6-8 just past noon. He said he’s spotting big fish with his electronics, though he’s working hard to excite bites.

“I have a pretty good pattern going, fishing four different areas in various places on the lake” he said. “I tried to practice pretty strategically, knowing the wind was going to blow all week long. I had two places out of the wind today and I only hit one of them. That was my goal, to save one of those spots for tomorrow.”

Tennessee pro John Garrett, who leads the 2025 Progressive Bassmaster Angler of the Year points race, caught the Mercury Big Bass on Friday — an 8-12 largemouth. He’s in 21st place with 16-13.

Takeoffs are scheduled for 7:30 a.m. CT from Isle du Bois at Lake Ray Roberts State Park in Pilot Point, Texas. Weigh-ins begin at 5 p.m. at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth.

The Fort Worth Sports Commission is hosting the event.

2025 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour 3/21-3/23
Lake Ray Roberts, Fort Worth  TX.
(ANGLER) Standings Day 1

   Angler                   Hometown              No./lbs-oz  Pts   Total $$$

1.  Trey McKinney          Carbondale, IL           5  26-09    0
  Day 1: 5   26-09   
2.  Cory Johnston          Otonabee CANADA          5  25-09    0
  Day 1: 5   25-09   
3.  Easton Fothergill      Grand Rapids , MN        5  24-15    0
  Day 1: 5   24-15   
4.  Jay Przekurat          Plover, WI               5  23-07    0
  Day 1: 5   23-07   
5.  Lee Livesay            Longview, TX             5  23-00    0
  Day 1: 5   23-00   
6.  John Cox               Debary, FL               5  22-00    0
  Day 1: 5   22-00   
7.  Kyoya Fujita           Yamanashi CA JAPAN       5  21-14    0
  Day 1: 5   21-14   
8.  Hunter Shryock         Ooltewah, TN             5  21-12    0
  Day 1: 5   21-12   
9.  Drew Benton            Panama City, FL          5  21-08    0
  Day 1: 5   21-08   
10. Bryan Schmitt          Deale, MD                5  21-05    0
  Day 1: 5   21-05   
11. Wes Logan              Springville, AL          4  20-09    0
  Day 1: 4   20-09   
12. Carl Jocumsen          Queensland TN AUSTRALIA  5  18-14    0
  Day 1: 5   18-14   
13. Chris Zaldain          Boyd, TX                 5  18-11    0
  Day 1: 5   18-11   
14. Stetson Blaylock       Benton, AR               5  18-08    0
  Day 1: 5   18-08   
15. Drew Cook              Cairo, GA                5  18-06    0
  Day 1: 5   18-06   
16. Scott Martin           Clewiston, FL            5  17-14    0
  Day 1: 5   17-14   
17. Tyler Williams         Belgrade, ME             5  17-09    0
  Day 1: 5   17-09   
18. Greg Hackney           Gonzales, LA             5  17-06    0
  Day 1: 5   17-06   
19. Jeremy Knepp           Montgomery, IN           5  17-04    0
  Day 1: 5   17-04   
20. Brandon Lester         Fayetteville, TN         5  17-02    0
  Day 1: 5   17-02   
21. John Garrett           Union City, TN           3  16-13    0   $1,000.00
  Day 1: 3   16-13   
22. Robert Gee             Knoxville, TN            5  16-02    0
  Day 1: 5   16-02   
23. Connor Jacob           Peoria, IL               5  15-13    0
  Day 1: 5   15-13   
23. Jeremiah Kindy         Benton, AR               5  15-13    0
  Day 1: 5   15-13   
25. Justin Hamner          Northport, AL            4  14-14    0
  Day 1: 4   14-14   
26. Jeff Gustafson         Kenora, ON Ontario CANA  5  14-11    0
  Day 1: 5   14-11   
27. Wesley Gore            Clanton, AL              4  14-09    0
  Day 1: 4   14-09   
28. Dylan Akins            Flowery Branch, GA       4  14-07    0
  Day 1: 4   14-07   
29. Chris Johnston         Otonabee Ontario CANADA  4  13-15    0
  Day 1: 4   13-15   
30. Matt Arey              Shelby, NC               4  13-06    0
  Day 1: 4   13-06   
31. Will Davis Jr          Sylacauga, AL            5  12-15    0
  Day 1: 5   12-15   
32. Patrick Walters        Eutawville, SC           5  12-13    0
  Day 1: 5   12-13   
33. Shane LeHew            Catawba, NC              5  12-02    0
  Day 1: 5   12-02   
34. Jacob Powroznik        North Prince George, VA  4  12-00    0
  Day 1: 4   12-00   
35. Tyler Rivet            Raceland, LA             4  11-07    0
  Day 1: 4   11-07   
36. Taku Ito               Dalton GA JAPAN          3  11-07    0
  Day 1: 3   11-07   
37. Jordan Lee             Cullman, AL              3  11-03    0
  Day 1: 3   11-03   
38. Logan Parks            Auburn, AL               4  10-15    0
  Day 1: 4   10-15   
39. Kyle Patrick           Cooperstown, NY          4  10-14    0
  Day 1: 4   10-14   
40. Alex Redwine           Blue Ash, OH             5  10-11    0
  Day 1: 5   10-11   
41. Alex Wetherell         Middletown, CT           3  09-13    0
  Day 1: 3   09-13   
42. Cody Stahl             Barnsville, GA           2  08-08    0
  Day 1: 2   08-08   
43. Ben Milliken           Omaha, NE                2  08-02    0
  Day 1: 2   08-02   
44. Kyle Austin            Ridgeville, SC           3  07-10    0
  Day 1: 3   07-10   
45. Pat Schlapper          Eleva, WI                2  07-08    0
  Day 1: 2   07-08   
46. Bobby Bakewell         Orlando, FL              2  07-01    0
  Day 1: 2   07-01   
47. Tyler Campbell         Martin, GA               2  06-12    0
  Day 1: 2   06-12   
48. Caleb Sumrall          New Iberia, LA           2  05-06    0
  Day 1: 2   05-06   
49. Jacob Foutz            Charleston, TN           2  04-07    0
  Day 1: 2   04-07   
50. Justin Atkins          Florence, AL             1  03-12    0
  Day 1: 1   03-12   
51. Kyle Norsetter         Cottage Grove, WI        1  03-07    0
  Day 1: 1   03-07   
52. Blake Capps            Muskogee, OK             1  02-13    0
  Day 1: 1   02-13   
53. Cooper Gallant         Bowmanville Ontario CAN  1  02-11    0
  Day 1: 1   02-11   
54. Josh Butler            Hayden, AL               0  00-00    0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   
54. Cody Huff              Ava, MO                  0  00-00    0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   
54. JT Thompkins           Myrtle Beach, SC         0  00-00    0
  Day 1: 0   00-00   
———————————————————————–

BIG BASS 
Day
 1   John Garrett             Union City, TN      08-12      $1,000.00

———————————————————————–
Totals
Day   #Limits    #Fish      Weight
 1        27       208       758-14
———————————-
          27       208       758-14





Hammond makes all the right adjustments to win Kayak Championship

North Carolina’s Wyatt Hammond wins the 2025 Yamaha Rightwaters Bassmaster Kayak Series Championship scored by TourneyX with a total catch of 111.25 inches.

Photo by Mark Cisneros/B.A.S.S.

March 21, 2025

Hammond makes all the right adjustments to win Kayak Championship

YANTIS, Texas — Nothing went as planned for North Carolina’s Wyatt Hammond during the 2025 Yamaha Rightwaters Bassmaster Kayak Series Championship scored by TourneyX. Fortunately, every adjustment he made produced big largemouth bass.

The Fayetteville, N.C., angler landed a 111.25-inch limit to win the coveted trophy, filling his limit with four bass measuring 22 inches or better along with one 21.75-incher during the 11 hour, one-day shootout.

It is Hammonds biggest tournament limit ever.

“This is unreal. Absolutely wild,” he said. “It wasn’t until midday when I started really catching fish and thinking I had a shot. One thing would happen, and I would shake it off and go to the next. Looking back, keeping my head in the game the entire time is what got me here.

“It seemed like every time I set the hook it was a 20-incher.”

Georgia’s Joshua Diehl finished second with 106.75 inches followed by South Carolina’s Bennett Nall, also with 106.75 inches.

Originally scheduled as a two-day tournament, high winds forced the cancellation of the first day of the tournament, forcing a one-day, 11-hour shootout on Thursday. The anglers made the most of their extended day, with 16 anglers reaching the 100-inch mark or better and 39 anglers landing 90 inches or better.

Hammond has fished in Texas only one other time — last fall at Caddo Lake. Nothing from that experience assisted him this week. He instead elected to target the types of hard cover that he finds success with around in his home state. Docks, a pond dam, riprap and rock were all key pieces of cover.

“Luckily, I got away from the trees, which is what I was trying to do. I wanted hard cover. Docks, points, stuff we fish in North Carolina,” Hammond explained. 

A 3/8-ounce homemade jig paired with a Berkley MaxScent Creature Hawg caught all of the bass in his final bag. Humminbird Mega LIVE imaging helped Hammond make pinpoint casts to the docks bigger bass were holding on.

“I had a lot of fish following glidebaits and following ChatterBaits,” Hammond said. “I could see them on Mega LIVE following those baits. Everyone on Fork is throwing minnows, glidebaits and jerkbaits, so I wanted to throw something different that they hadn’t seen a lot. They hadn’t eaten it all week until yesterday. I told some people I didn’t think these bass ate anything being dragged across the bottom. But on tournament day, they ate something being dragged on the bottom.”

Throughout the day, Hammond was forced to make several pivots, but each turned into something better than he could have expected.

“Pulling up to a pocket and having someone sitting in there and being like, ‘Okay it’s no problem, I’ll fish over here in the meantime,’ and then catching an 8-pounder is crazy,” he said. “Then a boat drives over your spot, and you move on and find a brand-new school with 30 minutes left before lines-out and catch an 8-pounder; It is awesome.”

After practice, Hammond planned on tossing a ChatterBait in drains, but the first spot he pulled up to had a boat fishing it. He moved to his next spot and landed a 21-incher within his first couple of casts. He then caught two 20-inchers and knew things could play out how he wanted to.

He filled out an impressive limit measuring over 106 inches, and while he caught multiple 18-, 19- and 20-inch bass, he wasn’t able to cull up to his final tally until late in the day when he stumbled on that new school of bass. He landed an 8-pounder during that flurry to clinch the victory.

Everything he caught was in 8 feet of water or less.

After a horrendous practice and a trailer breakdown, Diehl anchored his 106.75-inch limit with a 23.50-inch largemouth.

“I have no regrets,” he said. “This was an amazing experience. It ranks in the Top 5 of all my performances. This is a dream come true. My goal was just to walk across the stage. Leaving with second place, I’m happy to be here.”

The Georgia angler experienced one of the most unusual ChatterBait bites in the Glade area of the lake. Fishing a drain with stumps in 2 to 4 feet of water, Diehl would pitch his Z-Man ChatterBait Elite Evo to the stump, drop it, and lightly shake it.

The bass would eat it and then sit next to the cover with the bait in its mouth.

“I started finding more bucks when I was following the drain. As I went back, I was seeing more and more bass relating to the ditch itself,” he said. “I continued to scan, and I made a cast towards a piece of timber, and I got hung up at the top of it. I dragged it through and when I did that, I let it drop to fix some line, and a fish sat on it. That was a 22.5. That’s when I realized they wanted it slow.”

Hailing from Anderson, S.C., Nall experienced the best hour of fishing in his life during this tournament, landing everything in his final 106.75-inch limit in the final moments of the tournament.

“It was the most magical day of fishing or even an hour of fishing I’ve experienced in my life,” he said. “I knew I had to find something really special.”

He landed just one keeper bass in practice; Nall was just hoping to score one bass in the tournament. With three hours left he looked at the leaderboard and saw the crazy totals, and knew hungry prespawners would be his key.

“The only way I knew how to do that was to chuck and wind a Rat-L-Trap,” Nall said. “I did that on clay points with a channel swing pushing up against it. One particular point, I pulled up to it and caught a 21 1/2 the first cast. I came back and made the same cast again and caught a 21 1/4. The next 20 to 30 minutes, I caught five over 20.”

A Rapala lipless crankbait was his key bait, mostly because it was the last lipless bait left in his tacklebox. 

Ewing Minor anchored his fourth-place 106.25-inch limit with the Big Bass of the Tournament, a 24.25-inch largemouth he landed on a jerkbait.

The Top 14 finishers cashed a check.

Full results from the 2025 Yamaha Rightwaters Bassmaster Kayak Series Championship scored by TourneyX can be found here

The Wood County Economic Development Commission hosted the event.





Great Lakes Finesse Creates The Ultimate Finesse Rods

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Great Lakes Finesse Creates The Ultimate Finesse Rods

  • By FTR Industry Wire
  • March 21, 2025

To compliment their advanced finesse soft plastic and terminal fishing solutions, Great Lakes Finesse has now launched the most sensitive and longest-casting finesse rods on the planet.

The team at Great Lakes Finesse often gets asked about rod recommendations for optimal performance with GLF Baits. That has been tough to answer, beyond recommending length, speed and action and describing some attributes, because they had not found perfect rods and had mostly leaned on custom builds. All that changes with the release of GLF Finesse CX Rods.

Created for the angler who wants the best tools in existence for presenting finesse baits and hooking and landing giant smallmouth bass, Finesse CX Rods are built to the GLF team’s highest standards for maximum sensitivity, extra-long casts, comfort and ideal combinations of length, power and action for finesse techniques.

Premium high-modulus carbon blanks are woven into an X pattern for maximum sensitivity, durability and crispness and left uncoated to reduce weight and eliminate glare for close-range fishing. One-piece, non-slip ergonomic carbon handles maximize sensitivity and comfort while minimizing weight. Durable matte black AT Microwave Air Guides allow for the longest possible casts and keep rod weight low.

Three spinning models of GLF Finesse CX Rods are available.

  • FCX78ML – This 7-foot, 8-inch medium light, fast action rod is the longest casting and most parabolic in the line-up and ideal for finesse hair jigs, underspins, wacky rigs and Cindy rigs.
  • FCX74ML – This 7-foot, 4-inch medium light, fast action rod can handle any finesse presentation and is the one to get if you can only have one!
  • FCX78MH – This 7-foot, 8-inch medium heavy, extra-fast action rod is designed for bottom presentations like dragging a tube or Juvy Craw or fishing a heavy Ned rig or finesse jig and will allow you to connect with more fish and get them in the boat.

MSRP: 399.99





Wyatt & Tuttle Win 2025 NC MARINE HYCO TRAIL Championship

Championship Day

Well it’s a wrap for the 2025 NC MARINE HYCO TRAIL!

We had the 5th and final tournament of the NC MARINE HYCO TRAIL last Saturday. We also got to Crown the 2025 Points Champions for the trail.

I want to start off by saying THANK YOU to NC Marine Sales for Sponsoring the trail and making it happen. Mr. Brandon-Stacy Patrick has been a sponsor of the 5 Alive Team Trail since the very 1st Tournament we ever had. Great guy, Great company and Great sponsor! Thanks again!!

We had 33 boats for last Saturday’s event. Once again some good bags at the top of the leaderboard. Hyco lake has come a long ways in the last few years showing improvement in the quality of fish that are being caught.
After the weigh in was complete it was the team of Donnie Wyatt & Matt Tuttle that took home the WIN

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They had a 5 fish limit weighing 19.78 pounds. That earned them a total of

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$1140.00

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for their victory. Great job guys!!
They were followed by the Father/Daughter team of Ross Oliver & Emily Larabee. They had a 5 fish limit weighing 17.96 pounds anchored by a 7.23 pound fish which also earned them the title of Big Fish of the tournament. They carried home

?

$1030.00

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for their efforts. As you can see in the pictures Ms. Emily was as happy as she could be. That’s what this is all about!!

We also crowned our 2025 Points Champions. We are proud to announce the 2025 NC MARINE Points Champions

?

Mr. Larry Gilbert & Kyle Gilbert

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They started off the season by winning the the 1st Tournament of the trail and never looked back. They stayed consistent all year and led the Points race the entire season. They took home

?

$1000.00

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and 2025 Points Champions plaques.  Also want to mention that they also fish out of a Caymas boat which happens to be a sponsor of the trail as well.
GREAT JOB guys and Congratulations!!!!

The top 2 finishing Caymas Boats.
Jeff Staton & Logan Staton -$300.00
Larry & Kyle Gilbert – $200.00

BIG CONGRATULATIONS to everyone who placed in the money!
Want to say THANK YOU to everyone who came out and fished with us this year in the NC MARINE HYCO TRAIL.

Want to give a BIG SHOUT OUT to Tournament director Tim Staton & his wife Pam Staton on doing an exceptional job again this year on running the tournament trail. Thank you to both of them for all they do!

Everyone be on the look out for the qualified teams list to be able to fish the Southern Door Solutions Big 5 Spring Championship at Mayo Lake on April 19th ,2025

Dont forget our new Gaston Trail fires up tomorrow 3/22/2025 going out of Salmons Landing. Tournament #2 of the Gaston Trail is next Saturday 3/29/2025.

Qualifier #2 of the Guaranteed $7000.00 Trail is next Saturday 3/29/2025 at Jordan Lake – Farrington Ramp.
If you have any questions or want to pre register contact me Kevin Sheppard at 336-264-8416.
Thanks!

Results.
1st. Wyatt & Tuttle- 19.78 pounds- $1140.00 TWT
2nd. Oliver & Larabee- 19.96 pounds- $1030.00 TWT
3rd. Jeff Wolfe – 16.56 pounds- $500.00 TWT
4th. J. Staton & L.Staton- 15.27 pounds-$300.00
5th. Casey Nichols – 14.77 pounds- $200.00
6th. C.Mullins & J.Mullins- 14.65 pounds-$110.00
7th. Gammon & Hoarsley – 14 40 pounds
8th. Dalton & West- 14.30 pounds
9th. T. Fox & Hall – 14.21 pounds
10th. T. Staton & P. Staton- 13.75 pounds

Big Fish.
Oliver & Larabee- 7.23 pounds – $330.00





Old Town® Launches Five New Watercrafts

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Old Town® Launches Five New Watercrafts

  • By FTR Industry Wire
  • March 20, 2025

Old Town unveils its next generation of watercraft, offering feature-rich options for anglers and recreational kayakers that redefine how they experience onwater pursuits.

Old Town, Maine – The Sportsman Line is going PRO with two new models, the PDL 120 PRO & ePDL+ 120 PRO, designed for anglers who need customization and propulsion flexibility. For recreational users, three new sit-on-top additions to the Ocean Kayak Line include features designed to help them go farther, play harder, and extend those dreamy summer days.

“For over 125 years, Old Town has continuously focused on product innovations that reflect customers’ preferred ways of spending time on the water,” says Ally Spaight, Senior Integrated Marketing Manager at Johnson Outdoors. “A steady rise in kayak fishing and outdoor recreation popularity continues to catapult the brand’s dedication to kayak innovation for on-water enthusiasts.”

Old Town Sportsman PDL 120 PRO & ePDL+ 120 PRO
The all-new 12-foot Sportsman Line offerings are based on the line’s most popular platform and are a product of extensive feedback from consumers, product engineers, and pro staff. The hallmark of the new Sportsman PDL 120 PRO and ePDL+ 120 PRO is the overhauled watercraft interior designed by Old Town’s engineers to maximize functionality, offer customization options, provide ample storage solutions, and enhance interior space while maintaining the existing PDL 120 footprint. Both PRO models are available in two exclusive new colors: Sierra and Storm.

CLICK TO FINISH READING





Bugging Bass – DAIWA

Bugging Bass
Ever Green’s new GEZZY works wonders on pressured fish and as a quick snack for everything else. 
FOOTHILL RANCH, CA (March 21, 2025) – “All fish have eaten insects at some point in their life,” said DAIWA Field Marketing Manager, Chris Martin. “Buggy shapes are familiar and hard to pass up on.”In this spirit, Ever Green, partnered with DAIWA, brings the amazing GEZZY to the North American market.Its leggy invertebrate profile is critter-ish as it gets. But in truth, there are plenty of buggy-looking baits available. So, what sets Ever Green’s GEZZY apart? We’re more than happy to explain…
GEZZY (Secret Smoke)
“Just shy of two-inches long, the GEZZY is a versatile and effective bait for bass that are already heavily pressured by fishing or just looking for an easy meal,” said Martin. “But it’s the actual devil in the details that makes the GEZZY so distinctive.”First and foremost, the GEZZY is uniquely heavy for its size, which instills a slow sink rate rigged weightless with only a wide-gap hook. Its durable salted body is responsible for this heft, which also promotes surprisingly long casts for such a small bait. How the GEZZY falls through the water is equally remarkable. “The GEZZY is balanced and sinks perfectly horizontal,” said Martin. “It doesn’t glide or tumble but drops with its back up and belly down…always. Additionally, the appendages quiver and vibrate on the fall, which also slows the fall. It’s amazing to see in the water. And we already know bass love it.” Stealth is part of the equation, too. “Sometimes, just the mere plop of a bait hitting the surface will spook fish,” said Martin. “Not so with the GEZZY. It lands softly with just a little ping, exactly like an insect landing on the water.”
Pressured fish will also pay notice. “We fish a lot of public waters where bass have seen about everything,” said Martin. “They turn tail on crankbaits, even snubbing subtler offerings like a worm on a wacky rig. The GEZZY, however, gets them to open up. Too natural and tempting to pass on.”How about on a Ned rig? “Early feedback we received during testing was that the GEZZY was fantastic on a Ned jig,” said Martin. Falls right in line with the juvenile crawfish and dragonfly nymphs bass feast on. Any alternative uses? Inshore saltwater species gorge on shrimp, and in some tidal waters, even insect larvae, making the GEZZY a stealthy bait for speckled trout, redfish, and snook. It’s fair to surmise that mega crappies and even bream will take a shot at a GEZZY, too.Like Martin said at the beginning, “All fish have eaten insects at some point in their life.” That’s enough argument to slip a pack or two of GEZZY’s in your tackle bag this season. 
TINY CRAWDAD
GREEN PUMPKIN
WILD CRAW
LIVE SHRIMP
GRASSHOPPER
GEZZY FEATURES:Perfectly balancedSlow falls horizontallySegmented bellyAppendages quiver and further slow the fallDurable salted bodySIZE: 1.8”COLORS: Green Pumpkin, Tiny Crawdad, Live Shrimp, Secret Smoke, Wild Craw, and GrasshopperMSRP $12.99 (6 pack)
For Daiwa’s latest color catalog and/or information on Daiwa dealers in your area, call Daiwa’s Customer Service Department at 562-375-6800 or e-mail inquiries to: [email protected]. The URL for Daiwa’s web site is daiwa.us