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Monday, October 7, 2024
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Green fish carry Feider to Day 1 lead at Bassmaster Elite at Lake Champlain

Brian Carter
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Green fish carry Feider to Day 1 lead at Bassmaster Elite at Lake Champlain

Minnesota’s Seth Feider takes the Day 1 lead at the Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Elite at Lake Champlain with five bass weighing 23 pounds, 11 ounces.

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

Aug. 8, 2024

Green fish carry Feider to Day 1 lead at Bassmaster Elite at Lake Champlain

Elite_eventLogo_2024_Champlain_Raster.png

PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. — Since he started coming to Lake Champlain as an Elite Series angler, Seth Feider has never caught two 5-pound largemouth in the same day.

That changed on Day 1 of the Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Elite at Lake Champlain as the New Market, Minn., pro landed a 6-pounder and another largemouth over 5 ½ pounds to anchor a 23-pound, 11-ounce limit of green fish that lifted him to the top of the leaderboard on Thursday.

“Those really big 5’s are super rare,” he said. “I’ve never caught two in the same day, but I did today, and they go a long way when everyone is catching 3- and 4-pound fish. I don’t know how the rest of the week will play out, but I had a really fun day.

“There’s no place I’d rather win one than on Champlain.”

On a day where 100 limits of bass were caught, 21 of which were over 20 pounds, Feider holds a 1-pound advantage over second-place Greg DiPalma and a 2-pound advantage over third-place Kyle Patrick.

It is the 2022 Angler of the Year’s biggest bag ever at Lake Champlain, adding to an already impressive track record at the famed fishery in eastern New York. He has two second-place finishes in 2017 and 2020 as well as a fourth in 2021. Last year, however, Feider missed the Day-3 cut and finished a disappointing 67th.

“Last year hurt,” he said. “I have a really good track record on this lake. It fishes a lot like home, just with bigger fish. I love fishing here.”

Feider opened the morning targeting the pelagic smallmouth Lake Champlain has become known for in the last several years with his forward-facing sonar. That turned out to be a particularly frustrating venture for the veteran angler.

“They were giving me problems, so I said to hell with them, and I went bass fishing,” Feider said. “I was just sucking at ‘Scoping. I was missing my casts, landing short, not getting bit and I lost one. I had a spot (close by) that is decent for largemouth, so I’ll go catch a few of them and then come back and Scope and it won’t bother me as much when they won’t eat my minnow.”

It was a day-altering decision as Feider landed his first lunker largemouth within his first couple of casts in the area. After landing another 4-pounder, Feider fully committed to the largemouth bite and fished seven or eight different areas, three of which produced his bag. A jig and a Texas rig were his most productive baits, while his biggest bass ate a frog.

Unlike in years past, Feider has found the largemouth are more spread out than they usually are. He got bites around wood, docks, rock and grass throughout the day. Most of the 25 bass Feider landed were between 2 and 3 pounds on Day 1.

“Normally you can go to a bay and camp out. This year, there are some bays I go into to catch one bass I shook off. It’s not an endless supply,” Feider said. “It’s probably because of the high water. When they were grouped up, they were more offshore in the submergent vegetation. The high water has them doing a little bit of everything.”

The Elite pros enjoyed sun and relatively calm conditions for most of Day 1, but change is on the way as the remnants of Hurricane Debby are forecast to move through the area starting on Friday, with stormy conditions continuing through Saturday morning.

That will make life much more difficult on Feider as far as navigating the fishery.

“If it gets windy, it will be really hard for me to catch them. A lot of my stuff is protected but getting from (here to there) will be a problem,” he said.

DiPalma, meanwhile, landed his entire 22-11 limit of smallmouth in the first two hours of the day off two shallow boulders in 12 feet of water. The Millville, N.J., pro believes the crawfish population is high in the area and has seen several smallmouth spit up crawfish as he was fighting them.

He primarily used a drop shot and a jighead minnow to land his limit.

“There are definitely fish in the area. It is a niche little area, and I have it to myself,” DiPalma said. “Tomorrow, the wind is going to change and the next day it is going to change again. These are smallmouth, and they can swim away.”

Once he filled out his limit, DiPalma made a long run south to the Ticonderoga region of Lake Champlain to try and catch a 6-pound largemouth. While he caught plenty of bass, he did not land the giant bass he was looking for.

Patrick landed a 21-11 mixed bag on Day 1 to land in third place. He anchored his bag with a 6-2 largemouth, which was the Phoenix Boats Big Bass of the Day. The rookie from Cooperstown, N.Y., spent the day targeting smallmouth, landing three on the day.

But as he was moving through a section of grass in 15 to 20 feet of water, he received a surprising largemouth bite that clued him into a different bite.

“I committed to smallmouth, and I was throwing a Berkley Flat Worm and I got a largemouth bite. So, I pulled some rods out of the box and caught that 6-2 and a 4-2,” Patrick said. “It was fortunate that I ran into some largemouth.

“They were congregated in one section. It’s not like you can do that anywhere on the lake. I would have had 18 pounds if I had just smallmouth.”

A jig, a drop shot and a Damiki rig were Patrick’s three best baits on Day 1.

Alabama’s Justin Hamner, winner of 2024 the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Jockey Outdoors, leads the Progressive Insurance Bassmaster Angler of the Year standings with 669 points. Tennessee’s Jacob Foutz is second with 654 points, followed by Illinois rookie Trey McKinney in third with 652 points. Missouri’s Cody Huff is fourth with 650 points and Chris Johnston of Canada is fifth with 639.

McKinney also leads the Dakota Lithium Elite Series Bassmaster Rookie of the Year standings with 652 points, followed by Tennessee’s John Garrett in second with 638 points and Alabama’s Wesley Gore in third with 628.

The full field will launch from the Plattsburgh City Dock beginning at 7 a.m. ET Friday and return for weigh-in at 3 p.m. The field will be cut to the Top 50 anglers after the Day 2 weigh-in before the Top 10 anglers take center stage on Championship Sunday.

Coverage of the Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Elite at Lake Champlain will air on FS1 on Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bassmaster LIVE will be streaming on Bassmaster.com each day.

The Adirondack Coast and City of Plattsburgh are hosting the tournament.

2024 Tackle Warehouse Bassmaster Elite at Lake Champlain 8/8-8/11
Lake Champlain, Plattsburg  NY.
(PROFESSIONAL) Standings Day 1

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

1.  Seth Feider            New Market, MN           5  23-11  103
  Day 1: 5   23-11   
2.  Gregory DiPalma        Millville, NJ            5  22-11  102
  Day 1: 5   22-11   
3.  Kyle Patrick           Cooperstown, NY          5  21-11  101   $1,000.00
  Day 1: 5   21-11   
4.  Patrick Walters        Eutawville, SC           5  21-10  100
  Day 1: 5   21-10   
5.  Brandon Lester         Fayetteville, TN         5  21-08   99
  Day 1: 5   21-08   
6.  Jacob Foutz            Charleston, TN           5  21-04   98
  Day 1: 5   21-04   
7.  Robert Gee             Knoxville, TN            5  21-01   97
  Day 1: 5   21-01   
7.  Wesley Gore            Clanton, AL              5  21-01   97
  Day 1: 5   21-01   
7.  Chris Zaldain          Fort Worth, TX           5  21-01   97
  Day 1: 5   21-01   
10. Matt Herren            Ashville, AL             5  21-00   94
  Day 1: 5   21-00   
11. Will Davis Jr          Sylacauga, AL            5  20-15   93
  Day 1: 5   20-15   
12. Austin Felix           Eden Prairie, MN         5  20-14   92
  Day 1: 5   20-14   
13. Joey Cifuentes III     Clinton, AR              5  20-13   91
  Day 1: 5   20-13   
13. Matt Robertson         Kuttawa, KY              5  20-13   91
  Day 1: 5   20-13   
15. Jay Przekurat          Plover, WI               5  20-09   89
  Day 1: 5   20-09   
16. Koby Kreiger           Alva, FL                 5  20-08   88
  Day 1: 5   20-08   
17. John Cox               Debary, FL               5  20-07   87
  Day 1: 5   20-07   
18. Jacob Powroznik        North Prince George, VA  5  20-06   86
  Day 1: 5   20-06   
19. John Garrett           Union City, TN           5  20-01   85
  Day 1: 5   20-01   
19. Logan Latuso           Gonzales, LA             5  20-01   85
  Day 1: 5   20-01   
21. Chris Johnston         Otonabee Ontario CANADA  5  20-00   83
  Day 1: 5   20-00   
21. Wes Logan              Springville, AL          5  20-00   83
  Day 1: 5   20-00   
23. Cody Huff              Ava, MO                  5  19-15   81
  Day 1: 5   19-15   
23. Trey McKinney          Carbondale, IL           5  19-15   81
  Day 1: 5   19-15   
25. Cooper Gallant         Bowmanville Ontario CAN  5  19-14   79
  Day 1: 5   19-14   
26. Bob Downey             Detroit Lakes, MN        5  19-13   78
  Day 1: 5   19-13   
26. Jeff Gustafson         Kenora, ON Ontario CANA  5  19-13   78
  Day 1: 5   19-13   
28. Cory Johnston          Otonabee CANADA          5  19-12   76
  Day 1: 5   19-12   
28. Tyler Williams         Belgrade, ME             5  19-12   76
  Day 1: 5   19-12   
30. Justin Hamner          Northport, AL            5  19-11   74
  Day 1: 5   19-11   
30. Bryan Schmitt          Deale, MD                5  19-11   74
  Day 1: 5   19-11   
32. Drew Cook              Cairo, GA                5  19-10   72
  Day 1: 5   19-10   
32. Logan Parks            Auburn, AL               5  19-10   72
  Day 1: 5   19-10   
34. Jason Christie         Dry Creek, OK            5  19-07   70
  Day 1: 5   19-07   
34. Caleb Sumrall          New Iberia, LA           5  19-07   70
  Day 1: 5   19-07   
36. Shane LeHew            Catawba, NC              5  19-01   68
  Day 1: 5   19-01   
36. Lee Livesay            Longview, TX             5  19-01   68
  Day 1: 5   19-01   
38. Ed Loughran III        Richmond, VA             5  19-01    0
  Day 1: 5   19-01   
39. Taku Ito               Dalton GA JAPAN          5  19-00   65
  Day 1: 5   19-00   
40. Alex Wetherell         Middletown, CT           5  18-15   64
  Day 1: 5   18-15   
41. Michael Iaconelli      Pitts Grove, NJ          5  18-13   63
  Day 1: 5   18-13   
41. Alex Redwine           Blue Ash, OH             5  18-13   63
  Day 1: 5   18-13   
43. Carl Jocumsen          Queensland TN AUSTRALIA  5  18-12   61
  Day 1: 5   18-12   
44. David Mullins          Mt Carmel, TN            5  18-11   60
  Day 1: 5   18-11   
45. Caleb Kuphall          Mukwonago, WI            5  18-10   59
  Day 1: 5   18-10   
45. JT Thompkins           Myrtle Beach, SC         5  18-10   59
  Day 1: 5   18-10   
47. Kyle Norsetter         Cottage Grove, WI        5  18-09   57
  Day 1: 5   18-09   
47. Clifford Pirch         Payson, AZ               5  18-09   57
  Day 1: 5   18-09   
49. Clark Wendlandt        Leander, TX              5  18-09   55
  Day 1: 5   18-09   
50. Hunter Shryock         Ooltewah, TN             5  18-08   54
  Day 1: 5   18-08   
51. Drew Benton            Panama City, FL          5  18-07   53
  Day 1: 5   18-07   
51. Gerald Swindle         Guntersville, AL         5  18-07   53
  Day 1: 5   18-07   
51. Matty Wong             Honolulu, HI             5  18-07   53
  Day 1: 5   18-07   
54. Jamie Hartman          Newport, NY              5  18-06    0
  Day 1: 5   18-06   
55. Scott Canterbury       Odenville, AL            5  18-05   49
  Day 1: 5   18-05   
55. Timothy Dube           Nashua , NH              5  18-05   49
  Day 1: 5   18-05   
55. Ben Milliken           New Caney, TX            5  18-05   49
  Day 1: 5   18-05   
55. Jake Whitaker          Hendersonville, NC       5  18-05   49
  Day 1: 5   18-05   
59. Brandon Cobb           Greenwood, SC            5  18-03   45
  Day 1: 5   18-03   
60. Brock Mosley           Collinsville, MS         5  18-02   44
  Day 1: 5   18-02   
61. Matt Arey              Shelby, NC               5  18-01   43
  Day 1: 5   18-01   
61. Cliff Prince           Palatka, FL              5  18-01   43
  Day 1: 5   18-01   
61. Kyle Welcher           Valley, AL               5  18-01   43
  Day 1: 5   18-01   
64. Kyoya Fujita           Yamanashi CA JAPAN       5  18-00   40
  Day 1: 5   18-00   
64. Bill Lowen             Brookville, IN           5  18-00   40
  Day 1: 5   18-00   
64. Bryan New              Leesville, SC            5  18-00   40
  Day 1: 5   18-00   
64. Luke Palmer            Coalgate, OK             5  18-00   40
  Day 1: 5   18-00   
64. Frank Talley           Belton, TX               5  18-00   40
  Day 1: 5   18-00   
69. Brandon Card           Salisbury, NC            5  17-15   35
  Day 1: 5   17-15   
70. Cole Sands             Calhoun , TN             5  17-14   34
  Day 1: 5   17-14   
71. Brad Whatley           Bivins, TX               5  17-13   33
  Day 1: 5   17-13   
72. Hank Cherry Jr         Lincolnton, NC           5  17-12   32
  Day 1: 5   17-12   
72. Mike Huff              London, KY               5  17-12   32
  Day 1: 5   17-12   
72. Jordan Lee             Cullman, AL              5  17-12   32
  Day 1: 5   17-12   
72. Scott Martin           Clewiston, FL            5  17-12   32
  Day 1: 5   17-12   
72. Bryant Smith           Roseville, CA            5  17-12   32
  Day 1: 5   17-12   
77. Mark Menendez          Paducah, KY              5  17-10   27
  Day 1: 5   17-10   
78. Chad Pipkens           Dewitt, MI               5  17-08   26
  Day 1: 5   17-08   
79. David Gaston           Sylacauga, AL            5  17-07   25
  Day 1: 5   17-07   
80. Jonathan Kelley        Old Forge, PA            5  17-05   24
  Day 1: 5   17-05   
81. Keith Combs            Huntington, TX           5  17-02   23
  Day 1: 5   17-02   
81. Greg Hackney           Gonzales, LA             5  17-02   23
  Day 1: 5   17-02   
83. Kenta Kimura           Osaka OK JAPAN           5  17-00   21
  Day 1: 5   17-00   
84. Buddy Gross            Chattanooga, TN          5  16-14   20
  Day 1: 5   16-14   
84. Pat Schlapper          Eleva, WI                5  16-14   20
  Day 1: 5   16-14   
86. Marc Frazier           Newnan, GA               5  16-13   18
  Day 1: 5   16-13   
87. KJ Queen               Catawba, NC              5  16-10   17
  Day 1: 5   16-10   
88. Stetson Blaylock       Benton, AR               5  16-08   16
  Day 1: 5   16-08   
88. Rick Clunn             Ava, MO                  5  16-08   16
  Day 1: 5   16-08   
90. Justin Atkins          Florence, AL             5  16-05   14
  Day 1: 5   16-05   
91. Tyler Rivet            Raceland, LA             5  16-00   13
  Day 1: 5   16-00   
92. Paul Mueller           Naugatuck, CT            5  15-13   12
  Day 1: 5   15-13   
93. John Crews Jr          Salem, VA                5  15-12   11
  Day 1: 5   15-12   
93. Steve Kennedy          Auburn, AL               5  15-12   11
  Day 1: 5   15-12   
95. Todd Auten             Clover, SC               5  15-05    9
  Day 1: 5   15-05   
96. Joseph Webster         Hamilton, AL             5  15-03    8
  Day 1: 5   15-03   
97. Jason Williamson       Aiken, SC                5  14-15    7
  Day 1: 5   14-15   
98. Ray Hanselman Jr       Del Rio, TX              5  14-04    6
  Day 1: 5   14-04   
99. John Soukup            Sapulpa, OK              5  14-00    5
  Day 1: 5   14-00   
100. Brandon Palaniuk       Rathdrum, ID             5  13-01    4
  Day 1: 5   13-01   
101. Bernie Schultz         Gainesville, FL          3  08-00    3
  Day 1: 3   08-00



Becker Coasts in Group A Qualifying Round at MLF Bass Pro Tour Minn Kota Stage Seven at the St. Lawrence River

Brian Carter
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0
Becker Coasts in Group A Qualifying Round at MLF Bass Pro Tour Minn Kota Stage Seven at the St. Lawrence River

Reigning Angler of the Year adds 17 bass totaling 57 pounds, 4 ounces, Thursday to lead 10 anglers advancing to Knockout Round Saturday, Group B to wrap Qualifying Round Friday

MASSENA, N.Y. (Aug. 8, 2024) – When he returned to the water Thursday for Group A’s second day of qualifying at Minn Kota Stage Seven Presented by Humminbird, pro Matt Becker of Ten Mile, Tennessee, never visited a single one of the spots that produced his 100-plus pounds of smallmouth bass on Day 1, instead running all new water on the St. Lawrence River.

The result was more of the same. Becker stacked another 17 scorable bass for 57 pounds, 4 ounces onto SCORETRACKER® — despite making a clear effort not to catch too many fish from any one spot. That brought his two-day total to 163-11 and kept him atop the leaderboard, 18-14 ahead of Greeneville, Tennessee, pro Nick Hatfield.

“I definitely feel like I narrowed down the section (of the river) that I want to be in,” Becker said. “I probably added 12, 15 spots to my rotation now, and then eliminated some water as well. So, it was a very productive day.”

Link to HD Video – Fish-Catch Highlights of Group B Qualifying Round Day 2 on the St. Lawrence River
Link to Photo Gallery of Group A’s Day 2 Qualifying Round Highlights

It’s no surprise to see Becker’s name atop the standings at an event on northern smallmouth waters. Almost exactly one year ago, he closed his rookie season on the Bass Pro Tour with a win and came from behind to claim the Angler of the Year title on Saginaw Bay. He’s won before on the St. Lawrence, too.

But Becker admitted he’s surprised himself a bit through two days on the water with how he’s catching his bass.

Becker has caught all his smallmouth on casting gear and 15-pound fluorocarbon, primarily wielding a couple of different types of jerkbaits. That’s a stark departure from the norm on clear-water smallmouth fisheries, where spinning gear and light leaders typically dominate.

“I did not see that coming when this tournament was announced,” Becker said.

While Becker didn’t anticipate running the pattern that produced his Qualifying Round win, he did note that he was hoping to utilize heavier line. Doing so allows him to spend less time fighting fish and make more casts throughout the day, which is important in the BPT’s every-fish-counts format.

“I really wanted to catch them on heavier line, whether it was spinning gear with 10- or 12-pound line or baitcasting gear with heavier equipment that I could really fight them a lot harder than with 6- or 8-pound line – you waste a lot of time fighting fish,” Becker explained. “So, I definitely looked for that in practice and kind of came with the game plan of trying to find them on a technique that I could use that heavier line. But I really didn’t expect it to be as good as it is.”

Becker wasn’t shy about saying that, if his bite holds up, he thinks he’s on the fish to win. The problem is that change feels inevitable.

For one thing, smallmouth are known for moving from one day to the next. Plus, with rain from Hurricane Debby arriving Thursday afternoon and forecast to continue through Friday, Becker knows different conditions are likely to greet him when he returns to the water on Saturday.

“There’s no telling what could happen,” Becker said. “Surely it’s going to change things. I hope I have enough experience on the river, and in those sections, I have a lot of other things if that pattern goes away. I feel like I know where the fish would go in those areas. But you just never know.”

That’s part of why Becker believes it was important to add to his repertoire of spots on Thursday. He described himself as “cautiously optimistic” entering the weekend.

“I know that I’m on the deal to win it as of today, but I don’t know if that will change going into the weekend,” he said. “I’ve got no shortage of areas to fish, that’s for sure. But again, you just never know with smallmouth. They could very easily totally change everything by Saturday.”

The top 10 pros in Group A that now advance to Saturday’s Knockout Round on the St. Lawrence River are:

1st:        Matt Becker, Ten Mile, Tenn., 47 bass, 163-11
2nd:      Nick Hatfield, Greeneville, Tenn., 49 bass, 144-13
3rd:       Brent Ehrler, Redlands, Calif., 42 bass, 132-10
4th:        Jason Vance, Battle Ground, Ind., 41 bass, 123-14
5th:        Jesse Wiggins, Addison, Ala., 42 bass, 122-3
6th:        Marshall Robinson, Landrum, S.C., 36 bass, 121-3
7th:        Bradley Roy, Lancaster, Ky., 36 bass, 120-14
8th:        Jonathon VanDam, Kalamazoo, Mich., 40 bass, 117-1
9th:        Marty Robinson, Lyman, S.C., 35 bass, 115-1
10th:     John Hunter, Shelbyville, Ky., 36 bass, 113-1

Eliminated from competition are:

11th:     James Elam, Tulsa, Okla., 33 bass, 107-6
12th:     Mark Davis, Mount Ida, Ark., 34 bass, 104-15
13th:     Justin Lucas, Guntersville, Ala., 32 bass, 101-11
14th:     Bobby Lane, Lakeland, Fla., 35 bass, 101-4
15th:     Cliff Crochet, Pierre Part, La., 36 bass, 99-9
16th:     Zack Birge, Blanchard, Okla., 31 bass, 97-0
17th:     Ott DeFoe, Blaine, Tenn., 34 bass, 93-1
18th:     Alton Jones, Jr., Waco, Texas, 33 bass, 91-14
19th:     Mark Rose, Wynne, Ark., 31 bass, 87-8
20th:     Brent Chapman, Lake Quivira, Kan, 27 bass, 82-4
21st:      Dustin Connell, Clanton, Ala., 27 bass, 80-11
22nd:    Matthew Stefan, Junction City, Wis., 29 bass, 80-4
23rd:     Kelly Jordon, Flint, Texas, 26 bass, 74-2
24th:     Luke Clausen, Spokane, Wash., 22 bass, 70-10
25th:     David Dudley, Lynchburg, Va., 24 bass, 69-3
26th:     Greg Vinson, Wetumpka, Ala., 21 bass, 66-8
27th:     Jacob Wall, New Hope, Ala., 21 bass, 64-0
28th:     Keith Poche, Pike Road, Ala., 19 bass, 63-4
29th:     Anthony Gagliardi, Prosperity, S.C., 16 bass, 62-1
30th:     Edwin Evers, Talala, Okla., 21 bass, 60-3
31st:      Boyd Duckett, Guntersville, Ala., 19 bass, 59-2
32nd:    Grae Buck, Green Lane, Pa., 19 bass, 58-2
33rd:     Stephen Browning, Hot Springs, Ark., 21 bass, 58-2
34th:     Dean Rojas, Lake Havasu City, Ariz., 18 bass, 52-13
35th:     Britt Myers, Lake Wylie, S.C., 18 bass, 52-4
36th:     Gary Klein, Mingus, Texas, 16 bass, 50-9
37th:     Dave Lefebre, Erie, Pa., 18 bass, 49-15
38th:     Scott Suggs, Alexander, Ark., 13 bass, 35-9
39th:     Fred Roumbanis, Russellville, Ark., eight bass, 22-8

Complete results can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.

Overall, there were 528 scorable bass weighing 1,607 pounds, 12 ounces caught by the 39 pros on Thursday.

Thursday’s $1,000 Berkley Big Bass Award went to Pierre Part, Louisiana, pro Cliff Crochet, who weighed in a 6-pound, 7-ounce largemouth bass – the biggest bass of the week so far – that caught in Period 2. Berkley awards $1,000 to the angler who weighs the heaviest bass each day, and another $3,000 bonus to the angler who weighs the heaviest bass of the tournament.

In all likelihood, the season-long race to claim the Fishing Clash Angler of the Year crown will come to a close Friday. With both pros Alton Jones Jr. and Dustin Connell failing to make the Knockout Round in Group A, all Jacob Wheeler has to do in order to claim his third title in the past four years is finish among the top 22 anglers in Group B. He sits third after one day. Should Wheeler prevail Friday, he would not only receive the $100,000 prize but join an elite group of anglers who have won three AOY titles on national tours.

The six-day tournament, hosted by the Town of Massena, showcases 78 of the best professional anglers in the world competing for a purse of more than $805,000, with a top prize of $100,000 going to the winner.

The 39 Anglers in Group A competed in their two-day Qualifying Round on Tuesday and Thursday – the 39 anglers in Group B on Wednesday and Friday. After each two-day Qualifying Round is complete, the anglers that finish first through 10th from both groups advance to Saturday’s Knockout Round. In the Knockout Round, weights are zeroed, and the remaining 20 anglers compete to finish in the top 10 to advance to Sunday’s Championship Round. In the final-day Championship Round, weights are zeroed, and the highest one-day total wins the top prize of $100,000.

Anglers will depart at 6:45 a.m. ET each day from the Massena Intake Boat Launch, located at 1415 State Highway 131 in Massena. Anglers are allowed to trailer to any ramp of their choosing within the fishing boundaries, and competition will begin on the water at 7:30 a.m. Each day’s General Tire Takeout will be held at Massena Intake Boat Launch, beginning at 4 p.m. Fans are welcome to attend all launch and takeout events and also encouraged to follow the event online throughout the day on the MLFNOW!® live stream and SCORETRACKER® coverage at MajorLeagueFishing.com .

The MLFNOW!® broadcast team of Chad McKee and J.T. Kenney will break down the extended action live starting Thursday morning from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET. MLFNOW!® will be live streamed on MajorLeagueFishing.com, the MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) app and Rumble.

On Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 10-11, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. MLF welcomes fans of all ages to visit the Massena Intake Boat Launch for the MLF Watch Party. Fans can watch the pros live on the MLFNOW! big screen, enjoy free food, enter to win hourly giveaways and cheer on their favorite pros. Live music will begin each day at 4 p.m. The first 50 kids 14 and under will receive a free rod and reel from Pure Fishing each day. The final 10 Championship Round Bass Pro Tour anglers will be on hand at the trophy celebration on Championship Sunday to meet and greet fans, sign autographs and take selfies.

The Minn Kota Stage Seven at the St. Lawrence River Presented by Humminbird features anglers competing with a 2-pound minimum weight requirement for a bass to be deemed scorable. The MLF Fisheries Management Division determines minimum weights for each body of water that the Bass Pro Tour visits, based on the productivity, bass population and anticipated average size of fish in each fishery.

The 2024 Bass Pro Tour features a field of 78 of the top professional anglers in the world, competing across seven regular-season tournaments around the country, for millions of dollars and valuable points to qualify for the annual General Tire Heavy Hitters all-star event and REDCREST 2025, the Bass Pro Tour championship, set for April 3-6, 2025, on Lake Guntersville in Huntsville, Alabama.

Fishing Clash, an interactive 3D fishing simulation game that’s played by more than 80 million people worldwide, is the official AOY sponsor of the Bass Pro Tour, Tackle Warehouse Invitationals, Toyota Series and Phoenix Bass Fishing League. You can download Fishing Clash for free in the App Store and on Google Play or log on to www.fishingclash.game for more information.

Television coverage of the Minn Kota Stage Seven at the St. Lawrence River Presented by Humminbird will premiere as a two-hour episode starting at 7 a.m. ET, on Saturday, Nov. 16 on Discovery. New MLF episodes premiere each Saturday morning on Discovery, with re-airings on Outdoor Channel.

Proud sponsors of the 2024 MLF Bass Pro Tour include: Abu Garcia, B&W Trailer Hitches, Bass Pro Shops, Berkley, BUBBA, Epic Baits, Fishing Clash, Garmin, General Tire, Humminbird, Lowrance, Mercury, MillerTech, Minn Kota, Mossy Oak Fishing, NITRO, Onyx, Plano, Power-Pole, PowerStop Brakes, Rapala, REDCON1, Star brite, Suzuki, Toyota, WIX Filters and U.S. Air Force.

For complete details and updated information on Major League Fishing and the Bass Pro Tour, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF’s social media outlets at Facebook, X , Instagram and  YouTube.




MLF, Johnson Outdoors and Local Groups Work Together to Clean Up Fisheries as Part of Johnson Outdoors Clean Earth Challenge

Brian Carter
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MLF, Johnson Outdoors and Local Groups Work Together to Clean Up Fisheries as Part of Johnson Outdoors Clean Earth Challenge

More than 119 pounds of trash collected Monday at St. Lawrence River in New York and Kentucky Lake in Kentucky

MASSENA, N.Y. (Aug. 8, 2024) – Professional anglers from the Bass Pro Tour, Major League Fishing (MLF) staff and the Louisville (N.Y.) Recreation & Maintenance department participated in the Johnson Outdoors Clean Earth Challenge, Monday. The event – held in conjunction with the MLF Bass Pro Tour Minn Kota Stage Seven at the St. Lawrence River Presented by Humminbird – challenges people to get outdoors and take simple conservation actions to help preserve and restore the outdoor spaces we all love.

Pro anglers, MLF staff and workers from the Louisville (N.Y.) Recreation & Maintenance Department worked together in the rain at the Massena Intake Boat Launch in Massena to help clean the surrounding park and boat launch area. Fortunately, not a lot of trash needed to be picked up as the park was deemed one of the nicest and cleanest facilities that the Bass Pro Tour has visited, according to MLF Operations Manager Kim Edwards.

“Kudos to the entire team at the Louisville Recreation & Maintenance Department that keeps this boat launch area clean and beautiful, year-round,” Edwards said. “It was so great to see how well these locals take care of their facilities. We had so many volunteers to participate in and help with this event, and you can truly tell just how much upstate New York cares about their parks and outdoor areas.”

In addition to the Johnson Outdoors Clean Earth Challenge event in New York, staff at MLF headquarters in Benton, Kentucky, also participated in the challenge and spent the afternoon outdoors cleaning up the Kentucky Dam Marina. Despite sweltering temperatures that were in the mid 90s, 27 employees helped to gather trash and debris to help clean up the marina.

“This was such a fun day,” said MLF Tournament Director Alan Gray. “We truly have some great sponsors and partners that care about the outdoors, and I am so blessed to be a part of a company that enjoys giving back.”

The National Wildlife Federation and Johnson Outdoors teamed up to launch the Clean Earth Challenge in 2022 to inspire people to get outdoors and take simple conservation actions to help preserve and restore the outdoor spaces we all love. Johnson Outdoors is calling on all fellow outdoor enthusiasts to get involved by collecting trash and helping to reach the goal of removing 10 million pieces of litter from the great outdoors.

Link to Photo Gallery: https://bit.ly/JOCEChallenge

For complete details and updated information on Major League Fishing and the Bass Pro Tour, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF’s social media outlets at Facebook, X,  Instagram and  YouTube.



Smeltinator® Season

Brian Carter
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Smeltinator® Season
Smeltinator® Season
Midsummer is prime time for fishing the Smeltinator Jig and Smeltinator Underspin Jig from Northland Fishing Tackle.
BEMIDJI, MN (August 8, 2024) – Rare is the lure that can champion the entire water column. Extract topwater, and in bass fishing, principally, you have baits that operate at the bottom and a wealth of others classified for certain depth ranges. But in the case of Northland’s Smeltinator® Jig and Smeltinator® Underspin, the entire water column is yours.And now, in the molten core of summer, the Smeltinator Jig and Smeltinator Underspin are tailormade for deep ranging largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass. Paired with an Eye-Candy Minnow or baitfish-esque soft plastic of your choosing, work these jigs amidst deep rocks and weedlines, as well as in the presence of bass suspending over no-man’s-land. Both Smeltinator varieties also play well with forward-facing sonar.
Smeltinator Jig (Gussy Shad)
Smeltinator Underspin (Gussy Shad)
HOT New ColorThe Smeltinator and Smeltinator Underspin in “Gussy Shad” color was designed by Bassmaster Classic Champion Jeff “Gussy” Gustafson to imitate baitfish across the country. With a slight blue hint, this color shines in tannic or dirtier water. Gussy Shad is now available online and in retailers, as well as the upcoming Bassmaster Classic 2024 in Tulsa, Oklahoma! Limited supply can be found right now on the Northland® Fishing Tackle website in all sizes and other patterns. 2023 Bassmaster Classic Champion, Jeff “Gussy” Gustafson, comments: “Gussy Shad works anytime an angler wants to imitate baitfish with a plastic that looks like a shad. It was designed to match up with the Z -Man Scented Jerk ShadZ™ in what they call ‘Gussy’s Glimmer Blue’ color. The white/blue hue of the new color Smeltinator or Smeltinator Underspin make it show up well in everything from the tannic waters of Lake of the Woods and Rainy Lake to the dirtier waters in the south.”
Origins of Gussy’s Classic Winning Smeltinator JigThe Smeltinator is hardly new to the fishing scene. The jig and the “moping” technique have been dominating the Canadian tournament scene for over a decade. Gussy, Northland founder John Peterson, Canadian professional angler Jamie Bruce, and Bryan Gustafson of Bass Tactics have won many tournaments and cashed big checks at events like the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship and Kenora Bass Invitational moping the Smeltinator Jig.The Bassmaster Classic winning Smeltinator Jig is the creation of Canadian Angler Bryan Gustafson. It wouldn’t be what it is today without a 20+ year relationship with Bassmaster Elite Series pro Jeff Gustafson and Northland Tackle founder John Peterson. The Smeltinator was designed to give anglers a premium minnow head that perfectly imitates slender baitfish across the Northern US and Canada. As Bryan started creating jigs, he consulted with John on the manufacturing process, and the Smeltinator was born. After dominating the Canadian Tournament scene for several years, Jeff Gustafson won more than $400,000 through B.A.S.S including the 2023 Bassmaster Classic. In 2023, Bryan licensed the Smeltinator manufacturing rights to Northland Tackle and reunited the three elements that brought this jig to life and made it famous.
More About the Smeltinator JigThe premium components of the Smeltinator is really what makes this jig head stand out from others. It features a sticky sharp, strong Gamakatsu hook, which by popular demand is a staple in the bass fishing tournament scene. Lifelike 3D holographic eyes and sculpted gill plates make the Smeltinator a realistic presentation and highly irresistible! Lastly, the universal ribbed baitkeeper holds your favorite plastics on the jig head and doesn’t tear your bait like traditional baitkeepers. With 14 colors, four sizes (1/8-, ¼-, 3/8-, and ½-ounce), and five hook sizes (1/0, 2/0, 3/0, 4/0, and 5/0) from which to choose, bass anglers are sure to find the right Smeltinator Jig for whatever situation they face. Jigs come three per card for $7.99 (MSRP). 
Smeltinator Jig COLORS
GOLD
GLOW
LAKE WINNIPEG
OPENING NIGHT
PURPLE SILVER
RALPHS SMOKE
SILVER
UNPAINTED
WHITE
PINK WHITE
YELLOW ORANGE
CHARTREUSE MOSS
CAMO
The Smeltinator UnderspinLike the Smeltinator, the Smeltinator Underspin features an ultra-sharp, ultra-strong Gamakatsu hook and beautifully sculpted baitfish head and plastics-securing hook collar. But what makes the Smeltinator Underspin totally unique is its compact, nickel plated willow blade for added flash and vibration to mimic small baitfish. The lightweight blade spins instantly on contact with the water and continues flickering with minimal jigging action. Aiding and abetting the blade’s ability to spin at super slow speeds is an exceptional SPRO ball-bearing swivel. The Smeltinator Underspin is especially effective on pressured bass and in cold water conditions when bass won’t always commit to traditional lures. Moreover, the Smeltinator Underspin is a big-time player for anglers utilizing forward-facing sonar on suspended bass. The blade adds more body and action for the sonar to detect. 
Smeltinator Underspin COLORS
LAKE WINNIPEG
OPENING NIGHT
RALPHS SMOKE
SILVER
PINK & WHITE
The Smeltinator Underspin is deadly on suspended smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and spotted bass. Simply pair it with a 2.5- to 7-inch soft plastic jerkbait or swimbait and let the wondrous pairing go to work. Southern and western bassers can put it to task right now on deep water reservoirs, especially off steep breaking rock structure, over deep flooded timber, or anywhere wintertime bass are schooling offshore. The technique is elementary, too, letting the Smeltinator Underspin just do its thing. Pitch it out, let the bait fall to the fish, and start a slow and steady retrieve. With eight colors, three sizes (¼-, 3/8-, and ½-ounce), and three hook sizes (2/0, 3/0 and 4/0) of the Smeltinator Underspin to choose from, bass anglers are sure to find the right jig for whatever situation they face. Jigs come one per card for $7.99 (MSRP).



Top-ranked St. Lawrence River set to host Bassmaster Elite season finale

Brian Carter
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Top-ranked St. Lawrence River set to host Bassmaster Elite season finale

The Elite Series season finale features the nation’s top-ranked fishery at the Humminbird Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence River August 15-18.

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

August 8, 2024

Top-ranked St. Lawrence River set to host Bassmaster Elite season finale

Elite_eventLogo_2024_StLawrenceRiver_Raster copy.jpg

WADDINGTON, N.Y. — Ending the 2024 season at the nation’s top-ranked fishery fosters plenty of well-established optimism, and the 101 anglers competing in the Humminbird Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence River will do their best to unlock this legendary region’s bounty.

Competition days will be August 15-18 with daily takeoffs from Whitaker Park at 7 a.m. ET and weigh-ins each day at the park at 3 p.m.

Topping Bassmaster Magazine’s 2024 100 Best Bass Lakes rankings, the St. Lawrence River’s Thousand Islands region boasts the nation’s premier smallmouth bass fishing. The Elites have seen this renowned region in various weather complexions, and it never fails to deliver the goods.

“I expect it to be almost a repeat of last year; it’ll be about looking for the better pods of fish,” said third-year Elite Series pro Jay Przekurat. “The water is starting to get up to the peak summer temperatures in the upper 60s and lower 70s in the river, and in the lake you can get into the 70s.

“The water never really gets dirty there, but you want to look for water that isn’t stagnant. So, if you’re finding water temps in the upper 70s on the Great Lakes, chances are you’re in an area that doesn’t have any current. I try and look for areas that have water flowing through them, so you have the conditions you need for smallmouth.”

Suffice to say, the St. Lawrence holds a special place in Przekurat’s heart, as the Wisconsin pro secured his Dakota Lithium Bassmaster Rookie of the Year title by conquering this storied fishery in the 2022 Elite Series season finale. Notably, at 23 years and 26 days old, Przekurat became the youngest angler ever to win an Elite title at the time.

Two years later, he’s eager to see what the St. Lawrence fishery will offer. Biggest difference — the past two years saw Elites launching from Clayton, N.Y., about 10 miles from Lake Ontario, but this year, the event will run out of Waddington, N.Y., some 70-plus miles from the easternmost Great Lake.

“Obviously, this year is going to be a lot different,” Przekurat said of the long run and requisite fuel stop en route to Lake Ontario’s much-favored waters. “There will be many more factors in getting to the fish, and you’ll only have 3 to 4 hours to fish for them.

“If the conditions are so nasty that a guy cannot get out to the lake, or he gets out there, but he does not have a lot of fishing time, a guy could win in the river. Generally speaking, everyone knows you can catch 5-pounders more consistently in the lake than the river.”

Moreover, Przekurat notes how a wind opposing the river’s northeast flow can disrupt the current drifts anglers typically use to fish shoals, bars and island points. Lake Ontario’s not always cooperative, but targeting particular spots with far less current presents a more forgiving scenario.

Statistics validate these points, but about the only absolute this sport offers is that fish exit the water wet. Case in point: the last time the Elites fished out of Waddington (2021), Taku Ito won the event by fishing in the lake, while veteran Elite Series pro Bernie Schultz stayed in the river and notched a Top 10 finish.

Another one: 2020 saw Canadian Chris Johnston win his first Elite title by battling a rough Lake Ontario, while Brock Mosley spent four days in the Clayton area targeting mostly largemouth to ultimately place third. The green fish angle is another story for another time but a point worth noting should big winds enflame Ontario’s mean streak.

While Przekurat expects the usual smallmouth mix of drop shots, Ned rigs and hair jigs to handle much of the duty, he said bait selection plays second fiddle to the front-end effort.

“The biggest key is finding the fish and figuring out the right presentation,” he said. “Then you have to get to your fish (every day).”

No doubt, a rough Lake Ontario will send many back to weigh-ins with light bags and long faces. However, moderate-to-nice weather will guarantee a bronzeback beatdown with plenty of 5- to 6-pound studs crossing the stage.

Przekurat said he expects 20 to 21 pounds a day to make the Top 50 cut. The winner, he said, will probably weigh in about 97 pounds.

The next logical question: Will someone turn in a Century Club performance? This designation honors anglers who reach 100 pounds with four days of five-bass limits. Largemouth events have obviously dominated this prestigious league, but the past two St. Lawrence Elites thrust smallmouth bass into the conversation.

Two years ago, Przekurat earned his blue trophy with an all-smallmouth total of 102 pounds, 9 ounces. Technically, Chris Johnston’s older brother Cory Johnston was the first to enter the Century Club solely with brown ones, as he weighed his final limit of 28-8 (the event’s heaviest bag) before Przekurat and ultimately took second place with 100-5.

Last year, the St. Lawrence Elite saw four anglers hit the 100-pound mark. South Carolina’s Patrick Walters won with 105 pounds — setting a new weight record for a 20-fish total of all smallmouth. Chris Johnston finished second with 103-12, Kyoya Fujita took third with 102-5, and Ito was fourth with 101-7.

Will 2024 continue the trend? Not impossible, but as Przekurat points out, time constraints will make the 100-pound mark a tall hill to climb.

“I think if we have perfect conditions, someone could have 100 pounds, but it’s hard to (maintain that consistency),” he said. “A guy will have a 26-pound day, then he’ll back it up with a 23-pound day, then do that again and again.

“The key will be, can you get to your fish day after day. It’s hard to be that consistent running 70 to 80 miles. Everything has to go perfectly.”

Coverage of the Humminbird Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence River will air on FS1 on Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. ET. Bassmaster LIVE will be streaming on Bassmaster.com all four days.

The Village of Waddington is hosting the tournament.



MLF Announces Lake Hamilton as Host of 2025 Phoenix Bass Fishing League All-American Championship

Brian Carter
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MLF Announces Lake Hamilton as Host of 2025 Phoenix Bass Fishing League All-American Championship

42nd annual grassroots championship to be held in Hot Springs for seventh time – most in MLF history

HOT SPRINGS, Ark. (Aug. 8, 2024) – Major League Fishing (MLF) announced Thursday that the 42nd annual Phoenix Bass Fishing League (BFL) All-American will take place in Hot Springs, Arkansas, on Lake Hamilton. The no entry-fee tournament, scheduled for May 29-31, 2025, will showcase the nation’s best grassroots weekend anglers and offer a top prize of up to $120,000 cash to the winner.

The three-day tournament is hosted by Visit Hot Springs and the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism. This event will mark the seventh All-American to be held in Hot Springs, and the sixth on Lake Hamilton – both MLF records for the most times a city and fishery have hosted the event. The championship was previously held on Lake Hamilton in 2000, 2001, 2004, 2008 and 2022, and on DeGray Lake in 2010.

“Hot Springs is pleased beyond words to bring the Phoenix BFL All-American Championship back to our city for the seventh time,” said Steve Arrison, Visit Hot Springs CEO. “The last Championship we hosted was in 2022, and we can’t wait to welcome these world-class weekend bass anglers back to Hot Springs. Our city knows how to show competitors a great time on Lake Hamilton and a great time in their off-the-lake hours, too.

“Our thanks go out to the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism for their assistance in bringing the All-American back to Hot Springs,” Arrison continued. “The Championship will focus national attention on the unrivaled outdoor recreation we enjoy here in Hot Springs and The Natural State. We’re already starting to get ready, and we’re excited to welcome them in May 2025.”

“We’re thrilled to announce our return to Hot Springs and Lake Hamilton in 2025 for the biggest grassroots bass-fishing championship in the world,” said Kathy Fennel, MLF Executive Vice president and General Manager. “We’ve held numerous major events in Hot Springs, and it’s an ideal location for us. From the fishery, to our partners at Visit Hot Springs and the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism, to the incredible fan support that we always receive there – we’re so excited and can’t wait to see everyone again in 2025.”

Since it’s humble beginnings in 1983, the Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine circuit is widely credited with opening competitive bass fishing to the masses. It  serves as a steppingstone for anglers who wish to advance to the Toyota Series, Tackle Warehouse Invitationals and ultimately the Bass Pro Tour. Former All-American champions who currently compete on the Bass Pro Tour and the Tackle Warehouse Invitationals include Shaw Grigsby (1984), Stephen Browning (1996), Jacob Wheeler (2011), Jeremy Lawyer (2016), Nick LeBrun (2018) and Connor Cunningham (2022).

The 2024 Phoenix BFL Presented by T-H Marine is a 24-division circuit devoted to weekend anglers, with 128 events throughout the season and 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 compete 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.

The complete schedule and rules for the 2025 Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine season will be announced this fall.

Proud sponsors of the 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.




Rookie Drew Gill Leads Day 1 for Group B at MLF Bass Pro Tour Minn Kota Stage Seven at the St. Lawrence River

Brian Carter
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Rookie Drew Gill Leads Day 1 for Group B at MLF Bass Pro Tour Minn Kota Stage Seven at the St. Lawrence River

Illinois pro catches 36 smallmouth weighing 100-4 to jump out to early lead for Group B, Group A to wrap Qualifying Round Thursday

MASSENA, N.Y. (Aug. 7, 2024) – Bass Pro Tour angler Drew Gill of Mount Carmel, Illinois, has enjoyed a lot of memorable days on the water during his rapid rise through the tournament ranks. The Bass Pro Tour rookie has two wins this season — one at Stage Five on the Chowan River and one at the Tackle Warehouse Invitationals season opener on Sam Rayburn Reservoir — and has finished in the Top 10 eight times in 11 total events across those two circuits.

But Gill’s first day of competition at the Minn Kota Stage Seven at the St. Lawrence River Presented by Humminbird earned a special place in his memory bank. Gill racked up 36 scorable bass for 100 pounds, 4 ounces. That has him atop SCORETRACKER® after the first day of qualifying for Group B, 16 pounds, 6 ounces, ahead of Hot Springs, Arkansas’ Spencer Shuffield.

“If you want to rank the level of fun, it’s like not even on the grading scale,” Gill said. “It’s like S-Tier levels of fun. It is absolutely a blast. I think today was probably the most fun day of smallmouth fishing I’ve ever had in a tournament.”

Gill was far from the only angler to stack up a gaudy total on the fruitful fishery. As was also the case for Group A’s first day on the water, it took more than 58 pounds to claim a spot in the Top 10, and nine anglers crossed the 60-pound mark.

Link to Hi-Res Photo of Qualifying Group B Leader Drew Gill
Link to Photo Gallery of Group B’s Day 1 Qualifying Round Highlights

Gill admitted that it can feel at times like catching bass on the St. Lawrence is easy. In some ways, though, that actually makes strategy more stressful for the pros, as they have to be just about perfect in order to keep up with the pace.

While some anglers (like Shuffield, who boated eight smallmouth of 4 pounds or heavier) targeted a bigger average size, and a few even amassed strong totals of all or mostly largemouth, Gill’s gameplan focused on maximizing his catch rate. He started fishing right at “lines in” and only spent about 20 minutes of his day running his Mercury. His resulting tally of 36 scorable bass (35 of them being smallmouth) bested his next-closest competitor by seven and marked the most fish he’s boated in a day of competition this season.

“Time management and keeping the pace is the most important thing in a slugfest tournament,” Gill said. “And the best way to keep that pace is to make the run time as manageable as possible. … Just making decisions that are really time-management conscientious and focusing on maximizing fishing time, because every interaction you have with a fish here can be a 3- to 5-pound smallmouth.”

While Gill noted that his catch count could have been even higher had he not lost nine or 10 scorable bites, he’s excited by the fact that he maintained his rapid rate despite sampling several different areas and techniques. A forward-facing sonar guru who can often be spotted with just a handful of rods on his front deck, Gill said that’s not the case this week. He caught bass from as little as 5 feet of water to as deep as 54. He also found a new stretch of productive water during Period 3 that he’d never fished before and caught nearly 20 pounds off it in 22 minutes.

Gill believes having multiple options at his disposal will be key as the fishery evolves throughout the event.

“This is not one of those tournaments where you’ve got primary stuff and you’ve got some stuff in your back pocket,” he said. “Dude, you’ve got to be in all the pockets in this tournament. Front pockets, back pockets, side pockets, all the pockets, because if you’re not firing on all cylinders, you’re getting left behind.”

Gill will look to add to his repertoire of areas and techniques when he returns to the water Friday. With more than 45 pounds of cushion over 11th place, he can use the day as extra practice in advance of the Knockout Round. And with northern smallmouth known for their transient nature plus stormy weather from Hurricane Debby forecast to arrive this weekend, Gill knows he’ll need to adapt if he wants to add another trophy to his rapidly growing collection.

“Now that we’ve given ourselves a little bit of a head start, I’m looking forward to the time to expand the strategy,” he said. “I’m going to go expand on it, hopefully go find a few more areas, keep an eye on the stuff I’m fishing and try to prepare for the weekend.”

The top 20 pros in Group B after Day 1 on the St. Lawrence River are:

1st:        Drew Gill, Mount Carmel, Ill., 36 bass, 100-4
2nd:      Spencer Shuffield, Hot Springs, Ark., 24 bass, 83-14
3rd:       Jacob Wheeler, Harrison, Tenn., 29 bass, 74-5
4th:        Bryan Thrift, Shelby, N.C., 25 bass, 68-13
5th:        Fletcher Shryock, Guntersville, Ala., 23 bass, 65-6
6th:        Michael Neal, Dayton, Tenn., 19 bass, 64-3
7th:        Skeet Reese, Auburn, Calif., 20 bass, 63-7
8th:        Justin Cooper, Zwolle, La., 18 bass, 61-10
9th:        Josh Bertrand, Queen Creek, Ariz., 21 bass, 60-14
10th:     Chris Lane, Guntersville, Ala., 22 bass, 59-2
11th:     John Murray, Spring City, Tenn., 17 bass, 54-10
12th:     Keith Carson, DeBary, Fla., 17 bass, 54-3
13th:     Ron Nelson, Berrien Springs, Mich., 18 bass, 53-5
14th:     Jared Lintner, Covington, Ga., 19 bass, 52-13
15th:     Martin Villa, Charlottesville, Va., 17 bass, 52-12
16th:     Adrian Avena, Vineland, N.J., 17 bass, 49-2
17th:     Mark Daniels, Jr., Tuskegee, Ala., 16 bass, 48-4
18th:     Alton Jones, Sr., Lorena, Texas, 15 bass, 47-4
19th:     Jeremy Lawyer, Sarcoxie, Mo., 15 bass, 43-3
20th:     Jeff Sprague, Wills Point, Texas, 14 bass, 41-1

A complete list of results can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.

Overall, there were 592 scorable bass weighing 1,763 pounds, 10 ounces caught by the 39 pros Wednesday.

The Day 2 $1,000 Berkley Big Bass Award went to pro Spencer Shuffield of Hot Springs, Arkansas, who weighed in a chunky 6-pound smallmouth that he caught in Period 3. Berkley awards $1,000 to the angler who weighs the heaviest bass each day, and another $3,000 bonus to the angler who weighs the heaviest bass of the tournament.

Pro Jacob Wheeler of Harrison, Tennessee, entered Stage Seven needing only to advance to the Knockout Round to clinch his third Fishing Clash Angler of the Year title in the past four years. He’s off to a strong start.

Wheeler totaled 74-5 on 29 bass, which has him third in Group B. He’s nearly 20 pounds clear of 11th place. One more day like that and Wheeler will join a select group of anglers to win three AOY crowns on national tours. Should he falter, Waco, Texas’ Alton Jones, Jr. would be best positioned to take advantage, as he entered the regular-season finale 19 points behind Wheeler.

The six-day tournament, hosted by the Town of Massena, showcases 78 of the best professional anglers in the world competing for a purse of more than $805,000, with a top prize of $100,000 going to the winner.

The 39 Anglers in Group A compete in their two-day Qualifying Round on Tuesday and Thursday – the 39 anglers in Group B on Wednesday and Friday. After each two-day Qualifying Round is complete, the anglers that finish first through 10th from both groups advance to Saturday’s Knockout Round. In the Knockout Round, weights are zeroed, and the remaining 20 anglers compete to finish in the top 10 to advance to Sunday’s Championship Round. In the final-day Championship Round, weights are zeroed, and the highest one-day total wins the top prize of $100,000.

Anglers will depart at 6:45 a.m. ET each day from the Massena Intake Boat Launch, located at 1415 State Highway 131 in Massena. Anglers are allowed to trailer to any ramp of their choosing within the fishing boundaries, and competition will begin on the water at 7:30 a.m. Each day’s General Tire Takeout will be held at Massena Intake Boat Launch, beginning at 4 p.m. Fans are welcome to attend all launch and takeout events and also encouraged to follow the event online throughout the day on the MLFNOW!® live stream and SCORETRACKER® coverage at MajorLeagueFishing.com .

The MLFNOW!® broadcast team of Chad McKee and J.T. Kenney will break down the extended action live starting Thursday morning from 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET. MLFNOW!® will be live streamed on MajorLeagueFishing.com, the MyOutdoorTV (MOTV) app and Rumble.

On Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 10-11, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. MLF welcomes fans of all ages to visit the Massena Intake Boat Launch for the MLF Watch Party. Fans can watch the pros live on the MLFNOW! big screen, enjoy free food, enter to win hourly giveaways and cheer on their favorite pros. Live music will begin each day at 4 p.m. The first 50 kids 14 and under will receive a free rod and reel from Pure Fishing each day. The final 10 Championship Round Bass Pro Tour anglers will be on hand at the trophy celebration on Championship Sunday to meet and greet fans, sign autographs and take selfies.

The Minn Kota Stage Seven at the St. Lawrence River Presented by Humminbird features anglers competing with a 2-pound minimum weight requirement for a bass to be deemed scorable. The MLF Fisheries Management Division determines minimum weights for each body of water that the Bass Pro Tour visits, based on the productivity, bass population and anticipated average size of fish in each fishery.

The 2024 Bass Pro Tour features a field of 78 of the top professional anglers in the world, competing across seven regular-season tournaments around the country, for millions of dollars and valuable points to qualify for the annual General Tire Heavy Hitters all-star event and REDCREST 2025, the Bass Pro Tour championship, set for April 3-6, 2025, on Lake Guntersville in Huntsville, Alabama.

Fishing Clash, an interactive 3D fishing simulation game that’s played by more than 80 million people worldwide, is the official AOY sponsor of the Bass Pro Tour, Tackle Warehouse Invitationals, Toyota Series and Phoenix Bass Fishing League. You can download Fishing Clash for free in the App Store and on Google Play or log on to www.fishingclash.game for more information.

Television coverage of the Minn Kota Stage Seven at the St. Lawrence River Presented by Humminbird will premiere as a two-hour episode starting at 7 a.m. ET, on Saturday, Nov. 16 on Discovery. New MLF episodes premiere each Saturday morning on Discovery, with re-airings on Outdoor Channel.

Proud sponsors of the 2024 MLF Bass Pro Tour include: Abu Garcia, B&W Trailer Hitches, Bass Pro Shops, Berkley, BUBBA, Epic Baits, Fishing Clash, Garmin, General Tire, Humminbird, Lowrance, Mercury, MillerTech, Minn Kota, Mossy Oak Fishing, NITRO, Onyx, Plano, Power-Pole, PowerStop Brakes, Rapala, REDCON1, Star brite, Suzuki, Toyota, WIX Filters and U.S. Air Force.

For complete details and updated information on Major League Fishing and the Bass Pro Tour, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow MLF’s social media outlets at Facebook, X , Instagram and  YouTube.



Dennis Bradley Win CATT Roanoke Rapids Lake, NC Final July 28, 2024

Brian Carter
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0
Dennis Bradley Win CATT Roanoke Rapids Lake, NC Final July 28, 2024

This lake produces! Thanks for fishing guys!

Dennis Bradley fishing solo wins the Roanoke Rapids Lake Final with 5 bass weighing 20.58 lbs!

Evan White & Shane Doughtie claimed 2nd with 19.40 lbs!

TeamBFWeightWinnings
Dennis Bradley0.0020.58$1,300.00
Shane Doughtie Evan White6.6419.40$635.00
Doug Larson Chris Napier6.2817.70
Jake Murdock John Murdock5.0015.08
Cory Byrum Scott White0.0013.76
Bryan Edwards Kent Edwards0.0011.34
Michael Hobbs Larry Hobbs0.000.00



Jake & Jesse Kidd Win CATT James River, VA July 20, 2024

Brian Carter
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0
Jake & Jesse Kidd Win CATT James River, VA July 20, 2024

Next James River CATT is August 17 at Hopewell!

Jake & Jesse Kidd win the James River with 5 bass weighing 19.57 lbs worth $2,610.00!

Billy Allen & Craig Cheek 2nd with 18.69 lbs and the BF at 6.78 lbs! They took home $2,085.00!

Greg Cooper & Clay Lewis 3rd with 18.09 lbs! They are the current point leaders!

Frank Poirier & Brian Durham 4th Place! 17.97 lbs!

5th Place with 17.28 lbs! Trey Goodman & Tim Chaffin

6th Place Francis Martin & William Clements 17.21 lbs!

Greg Fernandez & BK 7th 16.67 lbs!

Chuck Comer–Don Warren 8th 16.60 lbs!

9th Brian Brooks–Avery Powelson 16.43 lbs!

Randy Waterman–Eddie Fore 11th Place with 16.08 lbs!

TeamBFWeightWinningsPoints
Jake–Jesse Kidd6.4219.57$2,610.00110
Billy Allen–Craig Cheek6.7818.69$2,085.00109
Greg Cooper–Clay Lewis5.7318.09$870.00108
Frank Poirier–Brian Durham5.3217.97$530.00107
Trey Goodman–Tim Chaffin0.0017.28$400.00106
Francis Martin–William Clements5.6717.21$300.00105
Greg Fernandez & BK5.4816.67$235.00104
Chuck Comer–Don Warren4.8616.60$190.00103
Brian Brooks–Avery Powelson4.5916.43$175.00102
Mike Hicks–Keith Lupo0.0016.36$145.00101
Randy Waterman–Eddie Fore6.1716.08$125.00100
John Koren–Joe Westfall0.0015.6799
Tj Milton5.5715.7298
Jeff Valentin–Daryl Moody0.0015.5997
Cody–Blake Condry0.0015.1396
Ben Dalton–Jeremiah Williams0.0015.0495
Ryan–Danny Gratten0.0015.0294
Dave Carney–John Dunn0.0014.7493
Roger–Renee Walter0.0014.1992
Cullen Hoover–Olman Arriaga5.4513.8691
Howard–Mark Austin0.0013.8490
Blake Miles–Daniel Jenkins0.0013.5589
Ben Knapp–Jeff Reed0.0013.5088
Ron Studer–Jimmy Seay0.0013.2287
Ryan & Wayne Drewery0.0013.2086
Ed–Ed Jordan4.9013.0585
Wes Zabdyr–Paul Kirby0.0013.0284
Donnie Meade–Travis Daniels0.0012.9383
Kelly Robinette–David Barlow0.0012.6582
Todd Fisher–Brett Stewart0.0012.6281
Kyle McLann–Aaron Kurz0.0012.3280
James Tilley–Andy Walker0.0012.2979
Mike Coleman–Tracy Gravely0.0012.2278
Tripp–Morgan Mistr0.0011.8577
Stacy Vasser–Kevin Davis0.0011.0776
Brandon Coffey–Bubba Whitehurst0.0011.6075
Jamie Nealy–Greg Ball0.0011.5574
Richard Mistr–Tom Owens0.0011.1373
Craig Ferguson–Rick Lements0.0011.2472
Steven Watson–Josh Desrocker0.0010.9271
Donnie Harper–Randy Johnson0.0010.6670
Michael McCrickard–Jason Wodard0.0010.5669
Joey Cooke–Justin Hall0.0010.4868
CJ–Curtis Combs0.0010.3767
Mike Hall–Donnie Hughes0.0010.1566
Sam Pollock0.0010.0165
Joey–Chris Deluke0.009.9864
Cory Dunnavant–Kennon Ball0.009.9463
Harvey Reese–Anothy Weithers0.009.4262
James Bryd–Darrell Newton0.000.0052
Jacob–Garland Reid0.000.0052
Clay–Tyler Ferguson0.000.0052
Joseph Carr–Bob Timberlake0.000.0052
James–Steven McDowell0.000.0052
Aaron Lucy–Reed Clay0.000.0052
Jeff Lou–Billy Edwards0.000.0052
Avery Neely0.000.0052
Total Entrys$6,600.00
BONUS $$1,500.00
Total Paid At Ramp$7,665.00
CATT$50.00
2024 James River Spring Final Fund$455.00
2025 CATT Championship Fund$50.00
2024 James River Spring Final Fund Total$2,270.00



Finding Bass in August: Where to Look and What to Know

Brian Carter
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0
Finding Bass in August: Where to Look and What to Know

Ever feel like you’re fishing in a desert during those hot August days? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! I’ve spent years figuring out how to catch bass in August, and I’m here to share what I’ve learned. Let’s talk about the best places to find bass when the weather is scorching.

Why August is Tough for Bass Fishing

August can be a challenging month for bass fishing for a few reasons:

  1. The water is really warm
  2. There’s less oxygen in the water
  3. Bass act differently than in cooler months

But don’t give up! There are still ways to catch bass in August.

Cool, Deep Water Spots

When it’s super hot out, bass head to deeper, cooler water. Here are some good places to look:

  1. Main lake points: These are like underwater highways for bass
  2. Underwater hills: Bass use these as resting spots
  3. Deep creek channels: Bass use these like we use air-conditioned hallways

Pro tip: Use your fish finder to spot groups of smaller fish. Bass are often nearby, looking for a meal!

Shady Places

Bass like shade just as much as we do on a hot day. Try fishing near:

  1. Trees that hang over the water
  2. Docks, especially ones that reach into deeper water
  3. Thick underwater plants

I once caught my biggest largemouth bass under a dock in August. It was a real fight to reel it in!

The Thermocline: A Bass Fishing Secret

The thermocline is a layer of water where the temperature drops quickly. It’s important for finding bass in August. Here’s what you need to know:

  1. It’s usually 10-20 feet deep in most lakes
  2. Bass often hang out just above it
  3. Use your fish finder to locate this special layer

Early Morning and Late Evening: Prime Fishing Time

During the coolest parts of the day, bass often move to shallow water. Look for:

  1. Rocks, fallen trees, and other stuff along the shore
  2. Shallow, flat areas, especially if there are smaller fish around
  3. Edges of weed beds

I love using topwater lures during these times. There’s nothing like watching a bass jump out of the water to grab your lure!

Moving Water is Key

Bass love water that’s moving, especially in August. Check out:

  1. Areas below dams where water is released
  2. Places where creeks flow into the lake
  3. Banks where the wind is blowing towards shore

Wrap-Up: Your August Bass Fishing Checklist

Remember, to find bass in August, focus on:

  1. Finding cool water with lots of oxygen
  2. Locating good hiding spots and cover for bass
  3. Understanding how bass act when it’s hot
  4. Changing your strategy based on the time of day

Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be catching August bass like a pro. Now get out there and show those summer bass who’s boss!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​



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