Bill Dance Signature Lakes signs as sponsor of 2024 Strike King Bassmaster High School National Championship
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. has announced a partnership with Bill Dance Signature Lakes to help connect the world’s most-loved angler with some of Tennessee’s greatest natural resources — its lakes.
The Bill Dance Signature Lakes program’s goal is to make Tennessee a best-in-class destination for anglers worldwide — beginners, experts and every skill level in between.
“We’re excited to partner with Bill Dance Signature Lakes for the High School National Championship,” said B.A.S.S. CEO Chase Anderson. “B.A.S.S. is proud to honor Bill’s legacy, and the partnership with his Signature Lakes program will benefit anglers not just in Tennessee, but anglers worldwide as they discover some of the best bodies of water in the United States.”
“We’re excited about the partnership with B.A.S.S. and couldn’t think of a better partner to join forces with to showcase the Bill Dance Signature Lakes project,” said Tennessee Department of Tourist Development Chief Customer Officer Dennis Tumlin. “And Chickamauga Lake is a great highlight of the amazing fisheries in Tennessee that are part of the project.”
In addition, four “small venue” lakes entice anglers of all ages and experience levels to enjoy the outdoors while experiencing an above-average catch rate.
The Signature Lakes include:
10 large reservoirs – Chickamauga Lake, Dale Hollow Lake, Douglas Lake, Kentucky Lake, Norris Lake, Old Hickory Lake, Pickwick Lake, Reelfoot Lake, Tims Ford Lake and Watauga Lake.
Four “small venue lakes” – Brown’s Creek Lake, Fall Creek Falls Lake, Herb Parsons Lake and Lake Halford.
About Bill Dance
Bill Dance, professional bass fishing’s first superstar, began competing — and winning — in bass tournaments in the early 1960s. With more than 2,000 shows under his belt since 1968, he has educated millions of fishing enthusiasts as host and producer of Bill Dance Outdoors and Bill Dance Saltwater, airing respectively on the Outdoor Channel and Sportsman Channel. Dance oversees a fishing empire from his production studio in Collierville, Tenn., that includes his TV shows, tackle endorsements, how-to seminars, and a series of popular “blooper” videos. Dance has written seven books and his articles have been published in Sports Afield, Field & Stream, Bassmaster® Magazine, Outdoor Life and more.
Bill Dance’s accomplishments, techniques and fishing savvy have been recognized through countless awards alongside a fishing career that encompasses 23 national B.A.S.S. titles, three Bassmaster Angler of the Year titles, 52 Top 10 B.A.S.S. finishes and eight Bassmaster Classic qualifications. Country superstar Luke Bryan celebrated the fishing legend in 2020 with the release of his song titled “Bill Dance.” In 2021, Dance received his honorary doctorate from the University of Tennessee for his outstanding contributions to the sport. For more than five decades, Bill Dance has served as an ambassador to the state of Tennessee, always filmed or photographed wearing his trademark orange and white University of Tennessee cap.
New Jersey’s Frankie Appaluccio takes the Day 1 lead in the B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier at Lake Champlain with a five-bass limit weighing 24 pounds, 5 ounces.
Photo by Chase Sansom/B.A.S.S.
July 24, 2024
Largemouth carry Appaluccio to Day 1 lead in B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier at Lake Champlain
With a 24-pound, 5-ounce limit of largemouth, anchored by a 6-15 Phoenix Boats Big Bass, the New Jersey boater holds a 2-pound, 1-ounce lead over Delaware’s Craig Morris in the final Nation Qualifier of the 2024 season.
The former University of Alabama angler has been visiting Lake Champlain since he was a child. Now 33, Appaluccio’s final tally on Day 1 was his best performance on the famous fishery that straddles the New York/Vermont border.
“This was my best tournament day for sure,” the Ogdensburg, N.J., angler said. “Probably my best day in general, too. I’ve been coming up here since I was 10 years old, and everyone who knows me has been on those vacations and knows all of these spots. They weren’t surprised about the bigger fish, but they were surprised by the amount of big fish on the same day.”
A fishery dominated by smallmouth in recent years, Lake Champlain kicked out many quality bags of largemouth bass on Day 1. That was due in part to the increase in wind speed during the day, which rose to around 20 mph by the afternoon ahead of a cluster of storms. Wind will also play a factor on Day 2 as forecasts call for even gustier breezes.
Despite the tough fishing conditions, 11 bags of 20 pounds or better were brought to the stage by boaters and 28 bags of more than 18 pounds were caught.
What Appaluccio did on Thursday morning was not in his original gameplan. But looking at the forecast with his travel partner the night before, he decided to pivot and make a run to one of his largemouth areas north of takeoff.
“I made a gametime decision and it paid off, clearly,” he said. “My backup plan was largemouth. But I knew I needed to hit them first.”
One bait produced the bulk of his bag by 10 a.m., but Appaluccio was able to make several key culls along the way, including a 5½-pounder he saw chasing rock bass before catching it with a bait he rarely uses.
“My co-angler was like, ‘I can’t believe that just happened,’” he said. “This was the craziest day of fishing ever.”
While there is always the potential to catch big largemouth at Champlain, Appaluccio knows it can also be inconsistent. He isn’t exactly sure what type of quality is left in his primary spot, but he does have smallmouth areas to target if the weather allows.
“I’d love to fish my smallie stuff, but I didn’t need to do that today. I wasn’t going to be catching smallmouth that big.”
Morris, meanwhile, has only been to Lake Champlain once in his life. But the Ocean City, Del., angler applied some of his tidal water skills and overcame motor issues to find success on Day 1.
“I had a late draw this morning and decided to go for green fish just because of my poor draw,” he said. “I ran north and had motor troubles. I decided to not move from one of my primary areas. I probably had 19 pounds at 8 o’clock this morning. I culled little bits here and there and it worked out. I stayed until about 1:30 just so I could try and make it back.”
In total, he estimated he caught more than 120 largemouth, as well as 40 pike, during the day in one large area of the lake. One specific type of vegetation in one specific depth range produced the majority of his quality bass, including a 5-5. All of the bass in his final limit were caught using one bait.
“The depth range is critical to the size of the bass, and the type of vegetation that is there is different than 90 percent of what you find on the lake,” he said. “I sure hope it will happen again tomorrow. It is a big area, and I didn’t have much traffic (around).”
Dan Tavilla of Portsmouth, N.H., is third in the boater standings with 21-2 followed by Jacob Swanson from Massachusetts in fourth with 20-14 and New York’s Cody Peryea in fifth with 20-13.
Josh Giran of Elizabeth, Pa., leads the nonboater division with a three-bass limit weighing 12-6. Ernest Weathersby of Leominster, Mass., is second with 12-3 and Maryland’s Joe Devoe is third with 11-4. New York’s Michael Hunt caught the Big Bass of the Day, a 4-12.
The full field is scheduled to launch from Plattsburgh City Marina beginning at 6 a.m. ET and return for weigh-in at 2 p.m. The field will be cut to the Top 20 boaters and nonboaters after the Day 2 weigh-in, and those anglers will punch their tickets to the Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Championship presented by Lowrance scheduled for Grand Lake Nov. 6-8.
2024 Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier at Lake Champlain presented by Lowrance 7/24-7/26 Lake Champlain, Plattsburgh NY. (BOATER) Standings Day 1
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Frankie Appaluccio Ogdensburg, NJ 5 24-05 0 Day 1: 5 24-05 2. Craig Morris Ocean City, DE 5 22-04 0 Day 1: 5 22-04 3. Dan Tavilla Portsmouth, NH 5 21-02 0 Day 1: 5 21-02 4. Jacob Swanson Framingham, MA 5 20-14 0 Day 1: 5 20-14 5. Cody Peryea Altona, NY 5 20-13 0 Day 1: 5 20-13 6. Anthony Lorefice Jr Johnson City, NY 5 20-08 0 Day 1: 5 20-08 7. Matt Pangrac Shawnee, OK 5 20-07 0 Day 1: 5 20-07 7. Joshua Smith Coventry, RI 5 20-07 0 Day 1: 5 20-07 9. J Judd Saint Albans, VT 5 20-05 0 Day 1: 5 20-05 10. David Torres II Fallston, MD 5 20-02 0 Day 1: 5 20-02 11. Robert Williamson II Gorham, ME 5 20-00 0 Day 1: 5 20-00 12. Rich Ortiz Fort Ann, NY 5 19-07 0 Day 1: 5 19-07 13. Ty Austin Rush, NY 5 19-07 0 Day 1: 5 19-07 14. Daniel Gray Butler, PA 5 19-05 0 Day 1: 5 19-05 15. Chris Guncheon Warwick, RI 5 19-05 0 Day 1: 5 19-05 16. Connor Jacob Auburn, AL 5 19-02 0 Day 1: 5 19-02 17. Dylan Dew Valencia , PA 5 19-00 0 Day 1: 5 19-00 18. Justin Yenter Stevens Point, WI 5 18-14 0 Day 1: 5 18-14 19. David Mathieu Woodstock, CT 5 18-12 0 Day 1: 5 18-12 20. Paul Baker New Fairfield, CT 5 18-10 0 Day 1: 5 18-10 21. Addison Kelly Queensbury, NY 5 18-10 0 Day 1: 5 18-10 22. Jay Walls Milford, DE 5 18-08 0 Day 1: 5 18-08 23. Brennan Chuprinko Flanders, NJ 5 18-07 0 Day 1: 5 18-07 24. Brian La Clair Denton, MD 5 18-06 0 Day 1: 5 18-06 25. Jed Worthington Eden Mills, VT 5 18-06 0 Day 1: 5 18-06 26. Jonathan Carter Portland, ME 5 18-04 0 Day 1: 5 18-04 26. Chase Loftus Iowa City, IA 5 18-04 0 Day 1: 5 18-04 28. Bret Winegardner Swanton, MD 5 18-02 0 Day 1: 5 18-02 29. Joseph Tefft Fort Edward, NY 5 17-14 0 Day 1: 5 17-14 30. Mark Hogan Milford, DE 5 17-10 0 Day 1: 5 17-10 30. Keith Poulin Lisbon, ME 5 17-10 0 Day 1: 5 17-10 32. Mikey Mello Jr Manville, RI 5 17-08 0 Day 1: 5 17-08 33. Mark Burgess Norton, MA 5 17-06 0 Day 1: 5 17-06 33. Matthew Lazor Evans City, PA 5 17-06 0 Day 1: 5 17-06 33. Fabian Rodriguez Ocean City, MD 5 17-06 0 Day 1: 5 17-06 36. Anthony Dulac Harpswell, ME 5 17-06 0 Day 1: 5 17-06 37. Cam Sterritt Newfields, NH 5 17-04 0 Day 1: 5 17-04 38. Josh Cotier Clinton, MA 5 16-15 0 Day 1: 5 16-15 39. TJ McKenzie Andrews, SC 5 16-13 0 Day 1: 5 16-13 40. Randy Huffman Charleston, WV 5 16-09 0 Day 1: 5 16-09 41. Jeffrey Davis Jr Wendell, NC 5 16-06 0 Day 1: 5 16-06 42. Joe McClosky Swanton, MD 5 16-05 0 Day 1: 5 16-05 43. Sheron Brown Sr Leominster, MA 5 16-05 0 Day 1: 5 16-05 44. Travis Lepage Lewiston, ME 5 16-04 0 Day 1: 5 16-04 45. Trevor Topken Hickory, NC 5 16-04 0 Day 1: 5 16-04 46. Phil Curtis Rosseau ONTARIO CANADA 5 16-03 0 Day 1: 5 16-03 47. Ben Hale Rowley, MA 5 16-02 0 Day 1: 5 16-02 48. Scott Robert Greene, ME 5 16-02 0 Day 1: 5 16-02 49. Bradley Baxter Willshire, OH 5 16-00 0 Day 1: 5 16-00 50. Brandon Mosley Harrah, OK 5 16-00 0 Day 1: 5 16-00 51. Kevin Clark Westport, MA 5 15-15 0 Day 1: 5 15-15 52. Colin Gaudette Saint Albans, VT 5 15-14 0 Day 1: 5 15-14 53. Steven Griffith Schellsburg, PA 5 15-10 0 Day 1: 5 15-10 54. Corey Gillis Ayer, MA 5 15-09 0 Day 1: 5 15-09 55. Ryan Smith Galloway, NJ 5 15-07 0 Day 1: 5 15-07 55. Brent Valere Mississauga CANADA 5 15-07 0 Day 1: 5 15-07 57. John Mayo Maiden, NC 5 15-05 0 Day 1: 5 15-05 57. Martin Osborne Glen Burnie, MD 5 15-05 0 Day 1: 5 15-05 59. Casey Baroffio Northfield, VT 5 15-04 0 Day 1: 5 15-04 59. Carson Forrester Chambersburg, PA 5 15-04 0 Day 1: 5 15-04 61. Robert Bordeaux III Williston, VT 5 15-02 0 Day 1: 5 15-02 62. Michael Trimarchi Peabody, MA 5 15-01 0 Day 1: 5 15-01 63. Darryl Halbert Enoree, SC 5 14-14 0 Day 1: 5 14-14 64. Ross Bartolo Caesarea CANADA 5 14-13 0 Day 1: 5 14-13 64. Austin Littler Camden, NY 5 14-13 0 Day 1: 5 14-13 64. Max Meister Atco, NJ 5 14-13 0 Day 1: 5 14-13 64. Mason Phillpotts Fenton, MI 5 14-13 0 Day 1: 5 14-13 64. Brian Wisniewski Allentown, PA 5 14-13 0 Day 1: 5 14-13 69. Jason Muir Milford, DE 5 14-12 0 Day 1: 5 14-12 70. Michael Adams Portland, ME 5 14-12 0 Day 1: 5 14-12 71. Louis Monetti Brielle, NJ 5 14-11 0 Day 1: 5 14-11 71. Robert Ramasci Wakefield, MA 5 14-11 0 Day 1: 5 14-11 71. Jeff Salmon Mechanicsville, VA 5 14-11 0 Day 1: 5 14-11 74. John Rottman Dudley, MA 5 14-10 0 Day 1: 5 14-10 75. Scott Kerslake Okeechobee, FL 5 14-09 0 Day 1: 5 14-09 76. Scott Rondeau Charlestown, RI 5 14-08 0 Day 1: 5 14-08 77. Chris Groman Whiting, VT 5 14-07 0 Day 1: 5 14-07 78. Jacob Marcantonio Moosup, CT 5 14-07 0 Day 1: 5 14-07 79. Jared Leicht Millville, NJ 5 14-06 0 Day 1: 5 14-06 79. Jeffrey Patch Rutland, VT 5 14-06 0 Day 1: 5 14-06 79. Steve Wilson East Waterboro, ME 5 14-06 0 Day 1: 5 14-06 82. Chris Washinger Chambersburg, PA 5 14-05 0 Day 1: 5 14-05 83. John Fitzgerald Salisbury, VT 5 14-05 0 Day 1: 5 14-05 84. Butch Marietta Jr Hunker, PA 5 14-04 0 Day 1: 5 14-04 85. Johnathan Sheehan Lynn, MA 5 14-04 0 Day 1: 5 14-04 86. RJ Ricci Cranston, RI 5 14-04 0 Day 1: 5 14-04 87. Matt Mosby Dryden, MI 5 14-03 0 Day 1: 5 14-03 88. Keith Aucoin Hollis Center, ME 5 14-01 0 Day 1: 5 14-01 88. Dennis Rocheford Pembroke, NH 5 14-01 0 Day 1: 5 14-01 90. Eric Low Buxton, ME 5 13-15 0 Day 1: 5 13-15 91. Robert Batchelder Jr Mechanicville, NY 5 13-11 0 Day 1: 5 13-11 92. Ed Powell Sandyville, WV 5 13-11 0 Day 1: 5 13-11 93. Ed Lapierre Lebanon, ME 5 13-09 0 Day 1: 5 13-09 94. Jeff Jensen Beech Creek, PA 5 13-07 0 Day 1: 5 13-07 95. Thomas Waltz St. Albans, VT 4 13-07 0 Day 1: 4 13-07 96. John Roth Lawrenceburg, IN 5 13-06 0 Day 1: 5 13-06 96. Andrew Sams Easton, MD 5 13-06 0 Day 1: 5 13-06 98. David Maiorano Durham, CT 5 13-05 0 Day 1: 5 13-05 99. Peter Owen Jr Barnstead, NH 5 13-04 0 Day 1: 5 13-04 100. Randy Kukral Chagrin Falls, OH 5 13-03 0 Day 1: 5 13-03 101. Tim Dubuc Bowdoinham, ME 5 13-02 0 Day 1: 5 13-02 102. Trevor Poulin Nashua, NH 5 13-01 0 Day 1: 5 13-01 103. Nausori Osasa Grand Isle, VT 5 12-14 0 Day 1: 5 12-14 104. Evan Poroznik Nestleton Station Ontar 5 12-13 0 Day 1: 5 12-13 105. Craig Castro North Attleboro, MA 5 12-12 0 Day 1: 5 12-12 106. Jeremy Sadowski Voluntown, CT 5 12-11 0 Day 1: 5 12-11 107. Dylan Minch Stevens Point, WI 4 12-10 0 Day 1: 4 12-10 108. Kevin Wilkes Ballston Lake,, NY 5 12-07 0 Day 1: 5 12-07 109. Steven Kotvas Apollo, PA 5 12-06 0 Day 1: 5 12-06 110. Randy Elliott Severn, MD 5 12-05 0 Day 1: 5 12-05 111. Erick Markstaller New Milford, CT 5 12-04 0 Day 1: 5 12-04 112. Chris Ogan Bixby, OK 5 12-01 0 Day 1: 5 12-01 113. Frank Ramsey Spring Grove, IL 5 12-01 0 Day 1: 5 12-01 114. Tony Despot II Monroeville, PA 5 11-14 0 Day 1: 5 11-14 115. Robert Smith Farmington, ME 5 11-11 0 Day 1: 5 11-11 116. Jeffrey Perron South Berwick, ME 5 11-10 0 Day 1: 5 11-10 117. Neal Wisinski Stevens Point, WI 5 11-09 0 Day 1: 5 11-09 118. Brian Hensley Edwardsburg, MI 5 11-06 0 Day 1: 5 11-06 119. Nick Lepone Fieldsboro, NJ 5 11-05 0 Day 1: 5 11-05 119. Mike Morris Dover, DE 5 11-05 0 Day 1: 5 11-05 121. Kirk Smith Edmond, OK 5 11-02 0 Day 1: 5 11-02 122. Tony Kibler Milford, DE 5 11-01 0 Day 1: 5 11-01 123. Woody McKechnie Lynn , MA 5 10-11 0 Day 1: 5 10-11 124. Chris McCarthy Woonsocket, RI 5 10-00 0 Day 1: 5 10-00 125. Stefan Lillios Loudon, NH 4 09-12 0 Day 1: 4 09-12 126. William Barrett Bridgewater, MA 5 09-11 0 Day 1: 5 09-11 127. Roger LaFlamme Jr Lyman, ME 5 09-07 0 Day 1: 5 09-07 128. Clayton Grimm Mechanic Falls, ME 5 09-07 0 Day 1: 5 09-07 129. Cameron Creamer Bremen, ME 5 08-09 0 Day 1: 5 08-09 130. Arthur Magurn Lunenburg, MA 3 07-12 0 Day 1: 3 07-12 131. Derek Severns Carnegie, PA 3 07-01 0 Day 1: 3 07-01 132. Steve Deguzis Bristol, CT 0 00-00 0 Day 1: 0 00-00 132. Henry Fristik Blandford, MA 0 00-00 0 Day 1: 0 00-00 132. Josh Giroldi Beachville CANADA 0 00-00 0 Day 1: 0 00-00 132. Eric Johnson Kingston, MA 0 00-00 0 Day 1: 0 00-00 132. Alex Legg Milford, DE 0 00-00 0 Day 1: 0 00-00 132. Joe Raposo North Dighton, MA 0 00-00 0 Day 1: 0 00-00 132. Craig Rexford Grand Isle, VT 0 00-00 0 Day 1: 0 00-00 ———————————————————————– Totals Day #Limits #Fish Weight 1 126 648 1993-11 ———————————- 126 648 1993-11
DAIWA’s new multispecies KAGE LT engineered to be the lightest spinning reel in its class.
FOOTHILL RANCH, CA (July 24, 2024) – In Japanese, KAGE means “shadow,” or metaphorically, refers to someone who is “secretive” or “elusive.” Think about that elite, stealthy angler who patrons only independent dealers and has all the insights into local fishing. That’s the guy and gal DAIWA considered when they developed the KAGE series – available only at independent brick and mortar dealers. The new KAGE LT spinning reel sports rich features, beginning with its extremely lightweight and rigid ZAION body. The woven high-density carbon resin ZAION material is also durable and corrosion resistant to extend the life of the reel.The KAGE LT’s AIR ROTOR was engineered to be incredibly rigid and with minimal flex, especially at high drag pressures. Critically designed cut-outs reduce the weight of the rotor itself while adding stability and almost eliminating rotor “wobble”. The lighter the rotor, the less force it takes to spin around the reel, making it easier to turn the handle.
The KAGE LT also features a tubular AIR bail, which further reduces weight and offers more rigidity than standard wire, minimizing concerns over flex, bending, or breaking. The thicker material feels better to the fingers when flipping the tubular air bail as well.A7075 aircraft-grade aluminum TOUGH DIGIGEAR® technology is another hallmark of the KAGE LT. The especially hard and lightweight aluminum is precision machined and digitally cut, making it considerably more resistant to wear than traditional gear materials on the market.Anglers will also appreciate DAIWA’s brilliant Advanced Tournament Drag (ATD™) when setting the hook and fighting fish. The smart system applies an increased, instantaneous and calculated resistance during the hookset. After the hook drives home and the fish starts pulling, ATD automatically returns to the selected drag setting.Where reel meets angler, the KAGE features a machined screw-in handle that connects directly to the main drive gear. The business end of the handle features a premium, compressed cork handle on the smaller 1000-2500 sizes and a larger rubberized T-handle for added grip on the larger 3000-4000 sizes.DAIWA Field Marketing Manager, Chris Martin, said, “We developed the KAGE LT to be incredibly lightweight for its size. This, while maintaining rigidity, bolstering sensitivity, and adding a level of corrosion resistance.”Martin continued, “The KAGE LT is the perfect utility spinning reel for multispecies anglers. Whether you’re chasing bass, walleyes, trout, or panfish, this reel will do it all. And with options down to a 1000-size, it’s tailormade for finesse fishing.”
KAGE LT (1000, 2000, and 2500 sizes with premium cork handle)
THE PERFECT MATCHMartin said DAIWA has made matching the new KAGE LT to a spinning rod simple. The recently released KAGE Bass and Walleye Series’ balance and fish ideally with premium, yet reasonably priced rods. Key features in both the bass and walleye versions include an Air Sensor Reel Seat, Fuji guides with Alconite rings, DAIWA’s elite SVF Nanoplus carbon resin, and x45 to eliminate blank twist. SPECIAL NOTE FROM DAIWA: The KAGE series is available exclusively at independent dealers. DAIWA strongly supports its vast network of dealers that are the heartbeat of fishing.
KAGE LT (3000 and 4000 sizes with rubber T handle)
KAGE LTFEATURES:ZAION BodyExtremely strong and lighter than aluminum and magnesium, the woven high-density carbon resin ZAION material is durable and corrosion resistant to extend the life of the reel.AIR RotorThe smart design lessens weight, provides even rotary balance and stress distribution, and reduces vibrations, all while maintaining strength. Delivers a more precisely balanced reel performance than competitors.AIR BailInnovative bail design features a hollow, tubular stainless steel bail that delivers maximum rigidity and strength with minimum weight. The smooth protrusion-free construction lets the line easily flow to the line roller for trouble free line control.TOUGH DIGIGEARA7075 Aircraft Grade aluminum is forged into bigger gears with larger tooth patterns and perfectly meshed between an ultra-tough drive gear and pinion gears for optimized speed, torque, exactness, smoothness, and durability.2BB Supported ATD (Advanced Tournament Drag)The lightweight spool sits atop a pair of BB’s, resulting in a smooth, frictionless payout as the spool engages and rotates. This prevents fish from coming unhooked as drag pressure remains steady.Machined Aluminum Screw in HandlePrecision tooling renders a smooth and secure fit. The ergonomic design delivers the ultimate in control and comfort with a secure grip.
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
Let’s explore some more advanced concepts and strategies for early and late bass fishing:
Understanding Bass Behavior in Detail
Thermoclines and Oxygen Levels:
In summer, lakes often form distinct temperature layers
Bass prefer the thermocline where temperature and oxygen levels are optimal
Early and late in the day, this layer can be closer to the surface
Feeding Patterns:
Bass are opportunistic feeders, but they have peak feeding times
These often coincide with low light conditions at dawn and dusk
Understanding local baitfish patterns can help predict bass activity
Advanced Techniques for Dawn and Dusk Fishing
The “Golden Hour”:
The first and last hour of sunlight are often called the “golden hours”
Use this time to target transitional areas where bass move between deep and shallow water
Night-to-Day Transitions:
Bass that have been active at night may still be shallow at dawn
Focus on structure near deep water that provides easy access to shallows
Weather Impacts:
Cloudy mornings might extend the topwater bite
Wind can create current and oxygenate water, potentially extending active periods
Lure Selection and Presentation
Color Selection:
Early morning: darker colors that create better silhouettes
Late evening: brighter colors that are more visible in low light
Sound and Vibration:
In low light, bass rely more on lateral lines to detect prey
Consider lures that create more vibration or noise
Seasonal Patterns:
Spring: focus on spawning areas and pre-spawn feeding zones
Summer: target deeper structure and use slower presentations
Fall: mimic baitfish schools and be prepared for aggressive feeding
Advanced Equipment Considerations
Line Selection:
Fluorocarbon for clear water and precise presentations
Braided line for heavy cover and long casts in low light
Rod and Reel Combos:
Longer rods for better topwater action and long casts
High-speed reels for quickly taking up slack in topwater presentations
Electronics Usage:
Use side-imaging to locate schools of baitfish or bass
Temperature gauges to find the optimal water temperature zones
Mental Game and Strategy
Patience and Persistence:
The biggest bass often bite when you least expect it
Stay focused during these prime hours, even if action is slow
Location Rotation:
Have a plan to hit multiple prime spots during these short windows
Don’t spend too much time in one place if it’s not producing
Adapting to Pressure:
In heavily fished areas, bass may become wary of common tactics
Be prepared to try unconventional lures or presentations
Conservation and Ethics
Proper Handling:
Use appropriate gear to quickly land fish
Minimize time out of water, especially in warm conditions
Selective Harvest:
Consider catch and release, especially for larger bass
If keeping fish, follow local regulations and consider the impact on the fishery
By mastering these advanced concepts and techniques, anglers can significantly improve their success during early and late fishing hours. Remember, consistent success comes from a combination of knowledge, preparation, and adaptability on the water.
The Bass Cast has picked out four mobile refrigerators that we think will help you save money on ice as well as mushy food that we get from ice on your next overnight trip to the lake or any other outdoor activity.
CLICK MAIN PHOTO TO LEARN MORE
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Unlocking Summer Bass Fishing: The Thermocline and Oxygen Level Secret
Introduction: Have you ever spent a scorching summer day on the lake, casting line after line with nothing to show for it? As an avid angler, I’ve been there too. But everything changed when I discovered the game-changing secret to summer bass fishing: understanding the thermocline and oxygen levels. In this post, I’ll share how this knowledge transformed my tournament performance and can do the same for you.
The Science Behind the Bite: Let’s dive into the underwater world of a summer lake. Imagine it as a layered cake:
The top layer: warm, oxygen-rich water
The middle layer (thermocline): where temperature drops rapidly
The bottom layer: cold, oxygen-poor water
Bass, like us, need oxygen to survive. They’ll congregate where breathing is easiest, which is key to finding them.
Finding the Bass Sweet Spot: Bass are particular about their environment, preferring:
Water temperature: 65-75°F
Oxygen levels: At least 3 parts per million (ppm)
During summer, these ideal conditions often occur right around the thermocline.
Locating the Thermocline: Here’s my tried-and-true method:
Use your depth finder (set sensitivity to about 90%)
Look for a distinct line with dark streaks below it
No fancy equipment? No worries. Watch for:
Baitfish clusters at a certain depth
Fish bands at the same level
Sudden changes in water clarity or temperature as you lower your lure
Winning Strategies for Thermocline Fishing: Once you’ve found the thermocline, it’s time to adapt your approach:
Above the thermocline:
Use search baits for quick coverage
Try topwater lures in shaded areas
Experiment with swim jigs just below the surface
At the thermocline:
Target structure at this depth
Slow down your presentation
Practice patience – big catches often happen here
Remember, the thermocline can shift as summer progresses. Stay observant and adjust accordingly.
The Oxygen Factor: Understanding oxygen levels is crucial:
Warmer water holds less oxygen
Plants produce oxygen by day, consume it at night
Early mornings can be challenging due to low oxygen levels
Pro Tip: Fish early or late when oxygen levels peak, or focus on areas with good water movement.
Conclusion: Mastering the thermocline and oxygen levels is like having a secret map to bass hotspots. It’s revolutionized my tournament performance, and I’m confident it will elevate your fishing game too. Keep these factors in mind, and you’ll be on your way to more consistent catches, even in the peak of summer heat.
Remember, in summer bass fishing, the thermocline and oxygen levels are your allies. Master this knowledge, and you’ll be the talk of the weigh-in. Now, it’s time to put this information to the test. Tight lines, and happy fishing!
Anderson summed up the Lake Ferguson event in just four words: “It was very tough.”
A combination of factors impacted the fishing and forced Anderson to get a little creative with his practice. He sampled oxbows and other waters as far as 100 miles away on the connected Mississippi River.
Several fruitless practice stops had him scratching his head until finally he found a clue.
“I ran to another chute farther north up the river. I was fishing some current in the river, and that’s where I wound up finding fish to potentially win the tournament,” he said. “I didn’t really know what I had until I got up there this morning (on tournament day). It took me an hour and 25 minutes (to get there from launch).”
Anderson got to his primary spot and immediately caught three keepers. His second spot produced zero bass.
“Then I pulled up to my third spot, which I didn’t even know. I just saw something that looked good on the side of the river,” he said. “I pulled in there and the fish started schooling, and I caught roughly 20 bass on consecutive casts.”
When Anderson moved again, he made one last upgrade before having to start his trip back to weigh-in before noon.
Anderson’s key areas were all on the main river and varied from just 2 feet deep down to 18 feet of water. Current breaks were the key.
The winning baits included a jighead minnow, which Anderson fished while using Garmin LiveScope, and a shallow-diving crankbait, which he used to catch the schoolers.
“I put in a lot of work, and it paid off,” he said. “I did not expect 10 pounds to win the tournament. But I’m not going to give it up.”
The top 10 boaters finished the tournament:
1st: John Anderson, Bay Springs, Miss., five bass, 10-0, $5,401 (includes $2,500 Phoenix MLF Contingency Bonus) 2nd: Dakota Fleming, Oak Grove, La., two bass, 6-4, $1,301 3rd: Blake Hodge, Oxford, Miss., three bass, 6-3, $867 4th: Jacob Long, Batesville, Miss., three bass, 6-2, $607 5th: Andrew Schrock, Smithville, Miss., two bass, 5-7, $520 6th: Kevin Bovia, Mandeville, La., one bass, 4-8, $757 7th: Mark Clark, Crawford, Miss., two bass, 4-6, $434 8th: Billy J-Hawk Brooks, Southaven, Miss., one bass, 4-3, $390 9th: Jeff Johnston, Marion, Ark., two bass, 3-12, $347 10th: Tim McDaniel, Grenada, Miss., one bass, 3-1, $303
Kevin Bovia of Mandeville, Louisiana, caught a bass that weighed 4 pounds, 8 ounces, and earned the Berkley Big Bass Boater award of $280.
Maxwell Brown of Gonzales, Louisiana, won the Strike King co-angler division and $1,301 Saturday, after bringing five bass to the scale that totaled 6 pounds, 1 ounce.
The top 10 Strike King co-anglers finished:
1st: Maxwell Brown, Gonzales, La., five bass, 6-1, $1,301 2nd: Bubba Wright, Ridgeland, Miss., one bass, 4-14, $790 3rd: Brayden Gray, Pontotoc, Miss., one bass, 2-12, $434 4th: Wally Northam, Olive Branch, Miss., one bass, 2-4, $303 5th: Thomas Smith, Brandon, Miss., one bass, 2-0, $260 6th: Ryan LeCompte, Picayune, Miss., one bass, 1-14, $238 7th: Jesse Steadham, Byram, Miss., one bass, 1-12, $217 8th: Isiah Kelly, Memphis, Tenn., one bass, 1-11, $195 9th: Travis Culbreth, Pearl, Miss., one bass, 1-10, $173 10th: Adam Davis, Nesbit, Miss., one bass, 1-8, $152
Bubba Wright of Ridgeland, Mississippi, earned the Berkley Big Bass co-angler award of $140, catching a bass that weighed in at 4 pounds, 14 ounces – the largest co-angler catch of the day.
After four events, Dakota Fleming of Oak Grove, Louisiana, leads the Fishing Clash Mississippi Division Angler of the Year (AOY) race with 982 points, while Thomas Smith of Brandon, Mississippi, leads the Fishing Clash Mississippi Division Co-Angler of the Year race with 978 points.
The next event for BFL Mississippi Division anglers will be held Sept. 21-22 at Pickwick Lake in Iuka, Mississippi. To register for the event as a boater or a co-angler, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com or call (270)-252-1000.
The top 45 boaters and co-anglers in the region based on point standings, along with the five tournament winners of each qualifying event, will qualify for the Oct. 17-19 BFL Regional tournament on Wright Patman Lake in Texarkana, Texas. Boaters will fish for a top award of $60,000, including a new Phoenix 819 Pro with a 200-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard and $10,000, while co-anglers will compete for a top award of $50,000, including a new Phoenix 819 Pro with a 200-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard.
The 2024 Phoenix BFL Presented by T-H Marine is a 24-division circuit devoted to weekend anglers, with 128 events throughout the season, five qualifying tournaments in each division. The top 45 boaters and Strike King co-anglers from each division, along with the five qualifying event winners, will advance to one of six BFL Regional tournaments where they are competing to finish in the top six, which then qualifies them for one of the longest-running championships in all of competitive bass fishing – the BFL All-American.
Proud sponsors of the 2024 MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine include: 7Brew, Abu Garcia, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, BUBBA, E3, Epic Baits, Fishing Clash, General Tire, GSM Outdoors, Lew’s, Mercury, Mossy Oak, Onyx, Phoenix, Polaris, Power-Pole, PowerStop Brakes, REDCON1, Strike King, Suzuki, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, WIX Filters and YETI.
For complete details and updated tournament information, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular Bass Fishing League updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF5’s social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
Green weeds play a crucial role in creating a thriving ecosystem within a bass lake. These weeds produce oxygen, which attracts a variety of organisms, from small aquatic insects and baitfish and predator fish like bass. Healthy, green weeds indicate a productive area teeming with life, making them prime spots for bass fishing. In contrast, brown or dying weeds lack oxygen production and fail to support this vibrant environment, causing fish to vacate the area. Targeting green, oxygen-rich weeds is essential for successful bass fishing. Green weeds provide shade and cover, which bass use to hide from predators and ambush prey. The lush environment created by green weeds supports a diverse food chain, making it an attractive habitat for bass. Anglers should focus on areas with abundant green weeds, especially during warmer months when the vegetation growth is at its peak. Understanding the life cycle of weeds can also help anglers predict the best times and locations for fishing. By prioritizing green weeds, anglers can significantly increase their chances of catching bass. Green weeds are essential for maintaining productivity, as they provide the oxygen and habitat needed.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!
Productive weed beds are characterized by their diversity and structure. Smaller weed beds with a mix of different types of weeds and varying bottom contours are more likely to attract bass. Key features to look for include changes in depth, irregular edges, and variations in weed types. These characteristics create ideal conditions for bass to hide and ambush prey. By focusing on these dynamic and diverse weed beds, anglers can increase their chances of locating and catching bass. Weed beds near drop-offs, points, or humps often hold more bass due to the changes in water depth and structure. The presence of multiple weed types can indicate different bottom compositions, which further enhances the habitat for bass. Observing how weeds grow in relation to underwater structures can provide valuable clues about where bass are likely to be. Regularly scouting and mapping weed beds can help anglers identify the most productive areas. Understanding these nuances allows anglers to strategically target the best spots within a weed bed for optimal fishing results, leading to more consistent and successful fishing outings throughout the summer season.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.
Weeds located near structural elements such as points, drop-offs, humps, and ridges are particularly attractive to bass. These areas provide natural weed edges and pockets where bass can hide and set up ambush points. The presence of structure enhances the complexity of the weed bed, making it more appealing to bass. Understanding how these structural features interact with weed growth is vital for effective bass fishing. Anglers should target these weed-covered structures to improve their fishing success. Weed beds that intersect with rocky outcrops or submerged timber offer even more cover and feeding opportunities for bass. These intersections create diverse habitats that can hold large numbers of bass throughout different seasons. Monitoring the underwater terrain with sonar or depth finders can help anglers pinpoint these productive spots. Recognizing the significance of underwater structures in relation to weed growth allows anglers to develop more strategic fishing plans. By focusing in on these high-potential areas, anglers can maximize their chances of landing big bass and enjoying a successful fishing trip. Consistently targeting these key areas will lead catches.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 Seed, Brown Bark, Magneto. 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!
In addition to weeds, other forms of cover like boulders, stumps, and docks within or near weed beds create excellent bass habitats. These elements break up the monotony of the weed bed and provide additional ambush points for bass. Bass often use these structures to hide and wait for prey, making them prime fishing spots. Identifying and targeting weed beds with additional cover can significantly enhance an angler’s success. By recognizing the importance of these combined features, anglers can better locate and catch bass. Areas with diverse cover types offer bass multiple hiding spots and feeding opportunities, increasing their appeal. Man-made structures, such as docks, can also create shadows and cooler water temperatures, attracting bass during hot weather. Using electronics to scan for underwater cover can help anglers find hidden hotspots that are not visible from the surface. Combining knowledge of natural and man-made cover with weed bed locations allows for more precise and effective fishing. Consistently targeting these complex environments will lead to more productive bass fishing outings, improving overall catch rates and satisfaction.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 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. Additionally, 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 the HellaMite’s superior performance and versatility.
Fishing the edges of weed beds with soft plastics is a highly effective technique. Soft plastic baits such as worms, insect larva, lizards, beetles, and other creature baits work well when ran along the outside edges of weed beds. These edges are often where bass are actively feeding, especially in the early morning or low-light conditions. Anglers should focus on maintaining a consistent retrieve to attract bass lurking in these areas. By mastering this technique, anglers can take advantage of the bass’s natural feeding behavior along weed edges. Varying the speed and depth of the retrieve can help trigger more strikes from bass. Casting parallel to the weed edge allows anglers to keep their bait in the strike zone longer, increasing the chances of a hookup. Using baits that mimic the natural prey of bass can also improve success rates. Paying attention to wind direction and current can help anglers position their casts more effectively. Focusing on weed edges with soft plastics is a reliable strategy for catching bass. Regular practice with different soft plastic baits can further enhance an angler’s catch rate. Over some time, anglers will develop a keen sense of which techniques work.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 Mint, Ox 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!
When the sun is high, bass often retreat deeper into the weeds, requiring different fishing techniques. Soft plastics like worms, insect larva, lizards, beetles, and other creature-styled baits rigged on heavy jigs or Texas rigs are effective for penetrating dense weed canopies. Anglers should cast into openings and irregularities within the weed beds, where bass are likely to be hiding. This approach mimics the natural movements of prey and entices bass to strike. Understanding how to fish within weed beds is crucial for success during midday or bright conditions. Using a slow, methodical retrieve can help draw bass out from their hiding spots. Pay attention to subtle bites, as bass may strike softly when buried in thick cover. Heavier tackle is often necessary to pull bass out of dense weeds without getting snagged. Experimenting with different bait colors and sizes can help determine what the bass are responding to on any given day. Mastering these techniques can turn challenging midday fishing into a productive outing. Persistence and patience are key when fishing in thick weed beds. The rewards can be substantial, with the potential for landing large, elusive bass.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! 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 Worm, Electic 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 are all available in 5 and 6-inch. We’ve also recently released new 8-count packs of worms available in Watermelon Red, Black & 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.
Using the right equipment is essential for effectively fishing in weedy environments. Heavy power, fast-action rods ranging from 7’4” to 7’8” provide the leverage needed to handle bass in dense cover. Pairing these rods with braided line (50-65 pound) and strong flipping hooks ensures that anglers can extract bass without getting tangled in the weeds. This robust setup allows for powerful hooksets and control over the fish, preventing them from escaping. Proper equipment selection is a key component of successful weed fishing. Using a high-speed reel can help quickly retrieve bass before they can wrap around weeds. Opting for tungsten weights instead of lead can provide better sensitivity and smaller profile, aiding in penetrating dense vegetation. Anglers should also consider using weedless rigs to minimize snags and maximize efficiency. Regular maintenance of gear, such as checking line for abrasions and ensuring hooks are sharp, is crucial for optimal performance. With the right equipment, anglers can confidently tackle even the thickest weed beds. High-quality gear tailored for weed fishing will enhance the fishing and enables anglers to focus more on technique and less on gear.We have a wide variety of terminal tackle to choose from. For Scorpions, we love to use the Stand-Up Jig because it sits your bait up-right in a defensive stance! The popular All Purpose Hooks are built with an extra-wide gap and are made to accommodate a wide range of soft plastics. The Mosquito Hooks work for drop-shotting and perfectly accommodates 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 for soft plastics.
Anglers competing in the Kentucky-Barkley event were limited to weighing three bass due to the high summer heat. An experienced Vaal put together a solid multi-species catch – one smallmouth and two largemouth bass – on a fishery that’s enjoyed a healthy resurgence over the last several seasons.
Vaal said he ran south to the Paris, Tennessee, area where he worked out a current-based ledge pattern that turned on once the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) started generating power. A key ledge in 12 to 15 feet produced most of Vaal’s fish throughout the day.
“It took until the afternoon to get bit,” Vaal said. “I guess when they generated a little current. From then on, I was able to take a big worm on the ledges and hop it and get bit by quality size fish.
“I wasn’t catching them off one individual spot,” he added. “I was just going down a ledge catching them one here and one there.”
“Yesterday (in practice) they were eating a 1/2-ounce. Today (Saturday), it was weird. They were higher up in the water column, so I had to drop down to 3/16.”
Vaal hopped the worm by lifting his rod up almost to the 12 o’clock position then letting it fall on slack line.
“That’s when they’d bite it most of the time,” he said.
“I’ve been fishing BFLs ever since I was in college, and it took me forever to win one,” Vaal added. “I finally got one last fall. So, to get two here in two years, it’s pretty surreal, honestly.”
The top 10 boaters finished the tournament:
1st: Dustin Vaal, Farmington, Ky., three bass, 14-6, $4,163 2nd: Justin Berger, Murray, Ky., three bass, 13-2, $2,082 3rd: Adrian Urso, Union, Ky., three bass, 12-7, $1,179 3rd: Zachary Martin, Murray, Ky., three bass, 12-7, $1,179 5th: David Hames, Trezevant, Tenn., three bass, 12-6, $1,413 6th: Edward Gettys, Dover, Tenn., three bass, 11-14, $1,263 (includes $500 Phoenix MLF Contingency Bonus) 7th: Jeff DeFew, Benton, Ky., three bass, 11-13, $694 8th: Drew Fromm, Creal Spring, Ill., three bass, 11-12, $625 9th: Scott Brummett, Brentwood, Tenn., three bass, 11-2, $555 10th: Matteo Turano, Puryear, Tenn., three bass, 11-0, $486
David Hames of Trezevant, Tennessee, caught a bass that weighed 5 pounds, 10 ounces, and earned the Berkley Big Bass Boater award of $580.
Joe Cornelius of Corinth, Mississippi, won the Strike King co-angler division and $2,082 Saturday, after bringing three bass to the scale that totaled 11 pounds, 13 ounces.
The top 11 Strike King co-anglers finished:
1st: Joe Cornelius, Corinth, Miss., three bass, 11-13, $2,082 2nd: Jacob Bovara, Wadsworth, Ill., three bass, 11-5, $1,041 3rd: Jojo Walsh, Lyles, Tenn., three bass, 10-2, $692 4th: Mark Sollman, Haubstadt, Ind., three bass, 10-0, $486 5th: Bobby Wade, Mayfield, Ky., three bass, 9-12, $416 6th: Chuck Rounds, Benton, Ky., three bass, 9-5, $382 7th: Frank Haysley, Louisville, Ky., three bass, 8-6, $447 8th: Barry Gunter, Trafalger, Ind., three bass, 8-0, $263 8th: Mike Westfall, Norris City, Ill., two bass, 8-0, $263 8th: Austin Hunter, Vandalia, Ill., two bass, 8-0, $553 8th: William Hadraba, Willow Springs, Ill., three bass, 8-0, $263
Austin Hunter of Vandalia, Illinois, earned the Berkley Big Bass co-angler award of $290, catching a bass that weighed in at 5 pounds, 13 ounces – the largest co-angler catch of the day.
After four events, Clint Knight of Lewisburg, Kentucky, leads the Fishing Clash LBL Division Angler of the Year (AOY) race with 976 points, while John Lovin of Fayetteville, Ohio, leads the Fishing Clash LBL Division Co-angler of the Year race with 947 points.
The next event for BFL LBL Division anglers will be held Aug. 24-25, at Kentucky-Barkley Lakes in Buchanan, Tennessee. To register for the event as a boater or a co-angler, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com or call (270)-252-1000.
The top 45 boaters and co-anglers in the region based on point standings, along with the five tournament winners of each qualifying event, will qualify for the Oct. 3-5 BFL Regional tournament on Pickwick Lake in Counce, Tennessee. Boaters will fish for a top award of $60,000, including a new Phoenix 819 Pro with a 200-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard and $10,000, while co-anglers will compete for a top award of $50,000, including a new Phoenix 819 Pro with a 200-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard.
The 2024 Phoenix BFL Presented by T-H Marine is a 24-division circuit devoted to weekend anglers, with 128 events throughout the season, five qualifying tournaments in each division. The top 45 boaters and Strike King co-anglers from each division, along with the five qualifying event winners, will advance to one of six BFL Regional tournaments where they are competing to finish in the top six, which then qualifies them for one of the longest-running championships in all of competitive bass fishing – the BFL All-American.
Proud sponsors of the 2024 MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine include: 7Brew, Abu Garcia, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, BUBBA, E3, Epic Baits, Fishing Clash, General Tire, GSM Outdoors, Lew’s, Mercury, Mossy Oak, Onyx, Phoenix, Polaris, Power-Pole, PowerStop Brakes, REDCON1, Strike King, Suzuki, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, WIX Filters and YETI.
For complete details and updated tournament information, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular Bass Fishing League updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF5’s social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
