Wednesday, December 17, 2025
Home Blog Page 212

How Far is Too Far? The Controversy Surrounding Forward-Facing Sonar in Professional Bass Fishing

AI Photo

How Far is Too Far? The Controversy Surrounding Forward-Facing Sonar in Professional Bass Fishing

Forward-Facing Sonar (FFS) has caused quite a stir in the world of professional bass fishing. Pro anglers have been vocal about their opinions on this new technology, and even industry legends like Hank Parker have joined the conversation. However, what is truly concerning is the backlash and rebuttal these anglers have faced from their peers. With all this drama, one cannot help but wonder when it will end and what the future holds for the sport. Will it improve? Only time will reveal the answer.

The introduction of FFS has completely transformed the way professional anglers approach their craft. This innovative technology provides a multitude of benefits that cannot be ignored. One of the primary advantages is the enhanced accuracy it offers in locating fish. With real-time visuals, anglers can now pinpoint the exact whereabouts of fish, giving them a distinct advantage in targeting specific areas. This level of precision elevates their fishing game and raises their chances of success in tournaments.

Efficiency is another key benefit of FFS. Anglers can swiftly eliminate unproductive waters without even casting a single line. This efficiency helps proficient FFS users consistently locate fish, making the most of their time on the water. By rapidly identifying unproductive areas, these anglers can focus their efforts on more promising fishing grounds, increasing their chances of a fruitful catch.

The technological edge that FFS brings to the table is undeniably enticing for many anglers. It uncovers underwater structures, reveals fish behavior, and sheds light on optimal bait presentations. Previously hidden insights now come to the forefront, allowing anglers to adapt their strategies based on real-time data. This newfound knowledge can be a game-changer, potentially propelling anglers to victory in fiercely competitive bass fishing tournaments.

However, the introduction of FFS has not come without controversy. One of the main concerns raised is the potential overreliance on technology. Skeptics argue that anglers may become too dependent on FFS, neglecting traditional techniques that have stood the test of time. The fear is that this over-reliance could diminish the significance of skills honed through years of experience and understanding of the sport.

Unequal access to FFS is another worrisome issue. Not all anglers have the financial means or resources to acquire this technology, which comes with a hefty price tag. This creates an uneven playing field, where those who can afford FFS gain a considerable advantage over their competitors. The fairness of the sport is called into question, with some anglers having greater opportunities to excel solely due to their access to technology.

Additionally, the broad adoption of FFS has the potential to diminish the diversity of techniques observed in professional bass fishing. Traditional methods that have long been the bedrock of the sport are gradually being replaced by this new technology. Fans of the sport may miss the variety of approaches that once made tournaments intriguing and captivating. The heritage and traditions of bass fishing could be at risk of being overshadowed by these technological advancements.

The controversy surrounding FFS and the division between anglers show no signs of fading away anytime soon. The future of professional bass fishing remains uncertain, with questions lingering about the long-term consequences of this technology. Will the sport be better off? Only time can definitively answer that question.

In conclusion, the introduction of Forward-Facing Sonar has generated a whirlwind of debate in the world of professional bass fishing. While FFS offers undeniable benefits such as enhanced accuracy, efficiency, and a technological edge, concerns arise over the potential over-reliance on technology, unequal access, and the loss of traditional fishing techniques. The ongoing drama surrounding FFS raises questions about the future of the sport. Will it ultimately improve or face challenges as a result of these advancements? Only time will provide the answers we seek.



MLF Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats Set to Close Out Central Division Season with event at Lake Chickamauga

DAYTON, Tenn. (April 24, 2024) – The Major League Fishing (MLF) Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats is set to return to the Dayton Boat Dock in Dayton, Tennessee, next week, May 2-4, for the third and final event of the 2024 Central division – the Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats at Lake Chickamauga.

The three-day competition, hosted by Fish Dayton and the Rhea Economic & Tourism Council, will feature a roster of the region’s best bass-fishing pros and Strike King co-anglers competing for a top prize of up to $100,000 in the pro division and a new Phoenix 518 Pro boat with a 115-horsepower outboard motor plus $5,000 in the co-angler division.

“I’ve been looking forward to this one for some time,” said local pro Seth Davis of Dayton, Tennessee, who finished second in this tournament in two of the last three Toyota Series visits to Lake Chickamauga. “I’ve got a lot going on in my life – we just got done building a house, we’re having a baby next month – but I’ve told my wife for the past few weeks, I am working for this one. I am thirsty, and I want to win! Map study, graphing, looking, finding grass, just staying in tune with the lake. I may not catch a keeper on Day 1, but I’m doing everything I can to give myself a shot.”

Davis said that this tournament, like most, will be largely weather dependent. The water levels on Lake Chickamauga are down a little bit, and with the TVA in the process of raising the lake, he doesn’t expect much current to be generated.

“The majority of the fish will be in spawn and postspawn patterns,” Davis said. “We’ve already had a wave or two spawn, so there potentially could be some fish already offshore. It would not surprise me one bit if this tournament is won either completely dedicated deep or dedicated shallow.

“The sleeper this year is that there are some areas with pretty good grass,” Davis continued. “It’s pretty healthy right now, and if a guy finds the right patch or two he could definitely catch some big bass just dragging stuff around the grass. It’s Lake Chickamauga and there are giants that live here.”

Davis said that he expects the three-day winner to bring three limits of bass to the scale in the mid-50-pound range.

“It’s still one of the best lakes in the country, but it’s fishing just a little finicky right now. Local tournaments are taking in the low 20s to win right now, so I’m going to be surprised if it takes more than 60 pounds. I think if a guy hits the mid-50s, he’ll be right there at the end with a shot to win.”

Anglers will launch at 6:30 a.m. CT each day from the Dayton Boat Dock, located at 175 Lakeshore Drive in Dayton. Weigh-ins will also be held at the Dayton Boat Dock and will begin at 2:30 p.m. each day. Fans are welcome to attend and encouraged to follow the event online through the “MLF Live” weigh-in broadcasts and daily coverage at MajorLeagueFishing.com.

In Toyota Series regular-season competition, payouts are based on the number of participants competing in the event, scaling up for every 20 boats over 160 and scaling down for every boat below 160. With a 160-boat field, pros fish for a top prize of up to $75,000, if Phoenix MLF Bonus qualified. Strike King co-anglers cast for the top prize of a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard (valued at $33,500). With a 260-boat field, pros fish for a top award of up to $100,000, if Phoenix MLF Bonus qualified. Strike King co-anglers cast for the top prize of a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower Mercury or Suzuki outboard plus $5,000 cash.

The 2024 Toyota Series Presented by Phoenix Boats consists of six divisions – Central, Northern, Plains, Southern, Southwestern and the Western Division Presented by Tackle Warehouse – each holding three regular-season events, along with the International and Wild Card divisions. Anglers who fish in any of the six divisions or the Wild Card division and finish in the top 25 will qualify for the no-entry-fee Toyota Series Championship for a shot at winning up to $235,000 and a qualification to REDCREST 2025. The winning Strike King co-angler at the championship earns a new Phoenix 518 Pro bass boat with a 115-horsepower Mercury outboard. The 2024 Toyota Series Championship will be held Nov. 7-9 on Wheeler Lake in Huntsville, Alabama, and is hosted by the Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau, the Madison County Commission, and the Huntsville Sports Commission.

Proud sponsors of the 2024 MLF Toyota Series include: 7Brew, Abu Garcia, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, BUBBA, E3, Epic Baits, Fishing Clash, FX Custom Rods, General Tire, Lew’s, Mercury, Mossy Oak, Onyx, Phoenix, Polaris, Power-Pole, Strike King, Suzuki, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, WIX Filters, YETI.

For complete details and updated information visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. For regular Toyota Series updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the MLF5 social media outlets at Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.



Dickson’s True Skips Docks to Win Phoenix Bass Fishing League Event at Tims Ford Lake

Boater winner Austin True of Dickson, Tennessee, and Strike-King co-angler winner Rex Henry of Hixson, Tennessee.
Hixson’s Henry Tops Strike King Co-Angler Division

WINCHESTER, Tenn. (April 22, 2024) – Boater Austin True of Dickson, Tennessee, caught a five-bass limit weighing 19 pounds, 8 ounces, Saturday to win the MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League (BFL) Presented by T-H Marine on Tims Ford Lake. The tournament was the second event of the season for the BFL Music City Division. True earned $2,883 for his victory.

Before the tournament, True found some spawning fish in the Elk River and thought this BFL tournament would be a spawn event. But in practice on Friday, he realized he’d have to change his strategy due to warming weather.

“I skipped a ChatterBait up under a dock and caught like a 5-pounder,” he said. “So using my (Garmin) LiveScope, I determined there were fish suspending up under docks. All my fish that were spawning, were now suspending under docks.”

True changed it up in the tournament. He caught a decent smallmouth first thing in the morning on a 4-inch 6th Sense Crush Dogma topwater bait in French bone pearl.

“From there, I took a jumbo (7-inch) Strike King Ocho on a baitcaster with 20-pound fluorocarbon, and I just skipped it as far back under the dock as I could. And hold on!” True said. “I enjoyed it because I didn’t have to stare at the LiveScope all day. I could see the structure I was fishing, and I fished confident.”

True, who works as an electrician at Wolfe & Travis Electric in Nashville, finished the tournament with four largemouths and the one smallmouth he caught in the morning. All his best docks were situated on channel-swing banks where he found wads of shad.

The top 10 boaters finished the tournament:

1st:        Austin True, Dickson, Tenn., five bass, 19-8, $2,883
2nd:       Jacob Woods, Loudon, Tenn., five bass, 17-12, $1,442
3rd:       Alex Gault, Elora, Tenn., five bass, 17-4, $960
4th:        Jason Cooper, Shelbyville, Tenn., five bass, 15-1, $673
5th:        Brent Sain, Manchester, Tenn., five bass, 14-14, $553
5th:        Jed Lamb, Chapel Hill, Tenn., five bass, 14-14, $1,053 (includes $500 Phoenix MLF Contingency Bonus)
7th:        Kyle Palmer, Winchester, Tenn., five bass, 14-9, $481
8th:        Josh Womack, Gallatin, Tenn., five bass, 14-2, $433
9th:        William Merrick, Wartrace, Tenn., five bass, 13-11, $660
9th:        Scotty Sudberry, Tullahoma, Tenn., five bass, 13-11, $360

Complete results can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.

Wesley D. Taylor of Estill Springs, Tennessee, caught a bass that weighed 4 pounds, 11 ounces, and earned the Berkley Big Bass boater award of $320.



Rex Henry of Hixson, Tennessee, won the Strike King co-angler division and $1,602 Saturday, after bringing five bass to the scale that totaled 15 pounds, 1 ounce.

The top 10 Strike King co-anglers finished:

1st:        Rex Henry, Hixson, Tenn., five bass, 15-1, $1,602
2nd:       John Fitzpatrick, Baxter, Tenn., five bass, 13-10, $721
3rd:       Mark Redman, Bowling Green, Ky., four bass, 12-11, $483
4th:        Kevin Jones, Fort Campbell, Ky., four bass, 10-14, $336
5th:        Wayne Crouch, Jamestown, Tenn., five bass, 10-13, $388
6th:        Kevin Barton, Portland, Tenn., five bass, 10-3, $264
7th:        Darryl Lee, Portland, Tenn., three bass, 9-9, $240
8th:        Thomas Coker, Manchester, Tenn., three bass, 8-13, $216
9th:        Jordan Harris, Fayetteville, Tenn., four bass, 8-2, $192
10th:     Brandon Adcock, McMinnville, Tenn., three bass, 6-15, $168

Henry also earned the Berkley Big Bass co-angler award of $160, catching a bass that weighed in at 4 pounds, 3 ounces – the largest co-angler catch of the day.

After two events, Jacob Woods of Loudon, Tennessee, leads the Fishing Clash Music City Division Angler of the Year (AOY) race with 972 points, while Kevin Jones of Fort Campbell, Kentucky, leads the Fishing Clash Music City Division Co-Angler of the Year race with 495 points.

The next event for BFL Music City Division anglers will be held May 11, at Center Hill Lake in Sparta, 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. 17-19 BFL Regional tournament on Clarks Hill Lake in Appling, Georgia. 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, Strike King, Suzuki, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota 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.



TJ Ford & Carl Black Win CATT Lake Monticello, SC April 20, 2024

Next up Lake Monticello is the Spring Final April 27th! You only had to enter 1 Monticello Qualifier to be eligible to enter! To view the points, go to the Monticello Division page and scroll all the way down!

Randy Rose & Travis Robinson win the Monticello Spring Points and will receive plaques plus free entry at the Final!

TJ Ford & Carl Black 1st Place at Monticello with 5 bass weighing 16.98 lbs! BF broke the tie!

Scott Roton & Johnny Mayer 2nd Place with 16.98 lbs!

TeamBFWeightWinningsPoints
TJ Ford – Carl Black4.4616.98$565.00110
Scott Roton – Johnny Mayer4.3916.98$150.00109
Randy Rose – Travis Robinson4.0916.00108
Timothy Austin Knox – Jason Branham4.3214.50107
Chad Bradford – Phillip Thompson4.0014.29106
Cory Vaughan – Devin Black0.0013.52105
Noah Wylie Scott – Elliott Scott3.368.39104
Charlie Childers – Ben Sherbert2.528.04103
Ron Felton – Devin Rivera2.754.42102
Chase Mount – Ronald Davis0.000.0092
Jason Ries – Roger McKee0.000.0092
Tyler Jackson – Tanner Jackson0.000.0092
Total Entrys$600.00
BONUS $$$225.00
Total Paid At Ramp$715.00
2024 Monticello Final Fund$100.00
2024 CATT Championship Fund$10.00
2024 Monticello Spring Final Fund$440.00



Shane Cantley & Michael Richardson Win CATT Lake Wateree, SC Spring Final April 20, 2024

The 2024 Lake Wateree Spring Final is a wrap with 20 teams entering and taking home a lot of cash!  The 2024 Summer Schedule is posted, and we have more Opens coming up. We will continue to mix in some $60 entry Opens with the $100 Opens!

*** We canceled the Open & CATT Summer on May 18th! The Take a Child Tournament will be held that day!

2024 Wateree Summer Schedule!

This is the Summer portion of the Wateree Opens coming up!

Michael Richardson & Shane Cantley win the Spring Wateree Final with 5 bass weighing 18.52 lbs! They took home $2,540.00!

Colden Baker & Manning Gross took 2nd with 5 bass weighing 16.02 lbs!

Greg Nettles & Matt Nettles 3rd with 15.99 lbs!

Jeff & Jacob Norris took 4th with 15.60 lbs!

Paul Wells & Craig Haven 2024 Lake Wateree Spring Point Winners!

TeamBFWeightWinnings
Shane Cantley & Michael Richardson4.8718.52$2,540.00
Colden Baker & Manning Gross4.1916.02$1,300.00
Greg Nettles & Matt Nettles4.3815.99$790.00
Jeff Norris & Jacob Norris4.2015.60$300.00
Chad Gainey & Mack Kitchens3.8515.03
Chad Sinclair4.3614.89
Butch Williams & Sonny Beam3.2614.17
Bubba Baker & Joni Baker4.9913.97$200.00
Mitchell Gordan & James Thompson4.1813.82
Scott Faile3.0213.60
Craig Haven & Paul Wells3.8913.20
Dearal Rodgers & Trent McLaughlin2.9612.60
Brent Neal & Max Price2.7312.53
Mike Ware & Josh Finley3.0111.56
Steven Sparrow2.9611.28
Greg Atkinson & Anitra Atkinson3.2710.16
Robbie English & Scott Williams2.938.29
Jess Williams & Mark Healon0.000.00
Greg Sigmon & Tracy Pope0.000.00
Steve Phillips0.000.00



Oxford’s Hodge Overcomes High-Water Conditions to Win Phoenix Bass Fishing League Event at Grenada Lake

Boater winner Blake Hodge of Oxford, Mississippi, and Strike-King co-angler winner Jeff Ingle of Como, Mississippi.
Como’s Ingle Tops Strike King Co-Angler Division

GRENADA, Miss. (April 22, 2024) – Boater Blake Hodge of Oxford, Mississippi, caught a five-bass limit weighing 17 pounds, 6 ounces, Saturday to win the MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League (BFL) Presented by T-H Marine on Grenada Lake . Hosted by the Grenada Tourism Commission, the tournament was the second event of the season for the BFL Mississippi Division. Hodge earned $9,813, including the lucrative $7,000 Phoenix MLF Contingency Bonus, for his victory.

Heavy rains ahead of the tournament had Grenada’s water well out of its banks when the BFL kicked off. Hodge followed the rising water into newly flooded fields of grass.

“I practiced a couple days last week and found a couple grass flats and was just targeting bass that were on hard or clean spots inside flat pieces of bank,” he said.

“I had three spots that I could put the nose of my boat in and make the same cast over and over.”

Hodge caught fish from as shallow as 6 inches of water by trolling his boat up as far as he could go and then bombing long casts. His key bait was a SPRO Bronzeye Frog, which produced a pair of keepers that Hodge brought to weigh-in.

“You had to work that area for probably 30 to 45 minutes until you made one of them bite,” he added.

Once he exhausted the frog pattern, Hodge made an adjustment and ran new water – mostly deeper postspawn areas where he was able to get bit throwing a BOOYAH Covert Spinnerbait with orange and gold blades.

Even though the high water had Hodge questioning whether he’d even be able to catch a keeper coming into the tournament, he wound up landing six fish and culling up to win by almost 6 pounds.

The top 10 boaters finished the tournament:

1st:        Blake Hodge, Oxford, Miss., five bass, 17-6, $9,813 (includes $7,000 Phoenix MLF Contingency Bonus)
2nd:       Barrett Saunders, Hammond, La., five bass, 11-10, $1,274
3rd:       Dakota Fleming, Oak Grove, La., five bass, 10-5, $848
4th:        Dakota Shaw, Millport, Ala., four bass, 9-11, $594
5th:        Scott Whitehead, Columbus, Miss., five bass, 8-11, $810
6th:        Tim McDaniel, Grenada, Miss., four bass, 8-10, $467
7th:        Jeff Johnston, Marion, Ark., four bass, 8-1, $425
8th:        Clint Pegg, Caledonia, Miss., four bass, 6-12, $507
9th:        Kenneth Underwood, Columbus, Miss., three bass, 6-6, $340
10th:     Chris Jones, Senatobia, Miss., three bass, 5-15, $297

Complete results can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.

Hodge’s limit included a bass that weighed 6 pounds, 3 ounces, and earned the Berkley Big Bass Boater award of $265.



Jeff Ingle of Como, Mississippi, won the Strike King co-angler division and $1,274 Saturday, after bringing five bass to the scale that totaled 11 pounds, 8 ounces.

The top 10 Strike King co-anglers finished:

1st:        Jeff Ingle, Como, Miss., five bass, 11-8, $1,274
2nd:       Troy Ladner, Bay Saint Louis, Miss., four bass, 7-8, $737
3rd:       Brayden Gray, Pontotoc, Miss., three bass, 5-8, $424
4th:        Christopher Daughdrill, Foxworth, Miss., two bass, 5-0, $297
5th:        Thomas Smith, Brandon, Miss., three bass, 3-15, $255
6th:        Joe Cornelius, Corinth, Miss., one bass, 3-9, $366
7th:        Roy Steed, Madison, Miss., one bass, 3-6, $212
8th:        Auston Ballard, Smithville, Miss., two bass, 2-12, $191
9th:        Randy Maples, Amory, Miss., one bass, 2-7, $170
10th:     Ryan LeCompte, Picayune, Miss., two bass, 2-3, $149

Joe Cornelius of Corinth, Mississippi, earned the Berkley Big Bass co-angler award of $132, catching a bass that weighed in at 3 pounds, 9 ounces – the largest co-angler catch of the day.

After two events, Barrett Saunders of Hammond, Louisiana, leads the Fishing Clash Mississippi Division Angler of the Year (AOY) race with 493 points, while Thomas Smith of Brandon, Mississippi, leads the Fishing Clash Mississippi Division Co-Angler of the Year race with 493 points.

The next event for BFL Mississippi Division anglers will be held May 11, at Lake Sardis in Sardis, 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, Strike King, Suzuki, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota 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.



West Palm Beach’s Terescenko Posts Second Career Win at Phoenix Bass Fishing League Event at Lake Okeechobee

Boater winner Alex Terescenko of West Palm Beach, Florida, and Strike-King co-angler winner Adam Giran of Wesley Chapel, Florida.
West Chapel’s Giran Tops Strike King Co-Angler Division

CLEWISTON, Fla. (April 22, 2024) – Boater Alex Terescenko of West Palm Beach, Florida, caught a five-bass limit weighing 28 pounds, 3 ounces, Saturday to win the MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League (BFL) Presented by T-H Marine on Lake Okeechobee . Hosted by Roland & Mary Ann Martin’s Marina & Resort, the tournament was the fourth event of the season for the BFL Gator Division. Terescenko earned $3,804 for his victory.

Terescenko certainly put together a solid bag of fish, but it wasn’t hot-and-heavy fishing.

“I pretty much caught all my fish on a homemade vibrating jig,” said Terescenko. “I didn’t really get much time to practice, but when I did practice I found a whole bunch of Mayan cichlid beds. They were loaded with cichlids.”

Cichlids are similar to bluegills, at least in size and their habit of spawning in clusters or colonies. And the bass prey on them during the cichlid spawn.

Terescenko was able to get bit in practice, but he knew he likely would have to adjust in the tournament because the wind kept switching directions. That kind of weather change in spring in south Florida calls for adjustments in fishing tactics, too.

“I really, really slowed down, and I was almost crawling the bait on the bottom,” he said.

Slowing down proved to be the deciding factor. Terescenko said other anglers were in his area fishing faster but weren’t having the same results. In fact, he never fired up his big motor the entire day and only burned through about 20 percent of his trolling motor batteries. He just worked a triangular area of three bedding zones, each about 50 yards apart, and made cast after cast.

“Patience was definitely a big thing for me,” he said. “That’s something that takes years to learn as a fisherman, but that’s what really came in clutch.”

Terescenko fished a green pumpkin Gambler Komodo as a trailer on his vibrating jig, and he dipped the tails in chartreuse. The jig had a green pumpkin skirt. He also caught a couple fish on a white vibrating jig.

The 31-year-old angler is a custom rod builder who owns Scenko Stix rod brand, which he runs with his girlfriend, Jenna Vlaar. He won the tournament using a 7-foot, 4-inch rod of his making that he calls the Chatter Trap.

“A lot of guys that throw a ChatterBait will use a composite blend rod,” he said. “It kind of has the benefits of the glass and composite, where if they (the fish) do eat that bait at the boat, it’ll have enough give and parabolic bend to not pull the hook. I designed the Chatter Trap where the blank is pretty thin but the walls are pretty thick, giving it a really nice whippy, crisp feel. It casts great and keeps fish pinned.

“You can really lean into them and not worry about your line breaking or pulling the hook. It’s very forgiving, but very strong at the same time. It’s definitely our best seller.”

Terescenko thanked his local community for supporting his rod business. He also thanked his Vlaar for her support, as well as his parents, who covered his entry fee to fish the BFL event.

“None of this would be possible without them,” he added.

The top 10 boaters finished the tournament:

1st:        Alex Terescenko, West Palm Beach, Fla., five bass, 28-3, $3,804
2nd:       Eric Beaty, Plantation, Fla., five bass, 27-0, $2,407
3rd:       Joseph Carter, Orlando, Fla., five bass, 26-0, $1,267
4th:        Dylan Quilatan, Windermere, Fla., five bass, 25-15, $1,188
5th:        Luis Lindstedt, Melbourne, Fla., five bass, 25-14, $1,261 (includes $500 Phoenix MLF Contingency Bonus)
6th:        Clay Mock, Winter Haven, Fla., five bass, 25-1, $697
7th:        Aaron Yavorsky, Palm Harbor, Fla., five bass, 24-4, $634
8th:        Robert Chase Burlew, Inverness, Fla., five bass, 23-7, $571
9th:        Timothy King, Fort Myers, Fla., five bass, 21-14, $507
10th:     Adam Hall, Bryceville, Fla, five bass, 21-11, $444

Complete results can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.

Eric Beaty of Plantation, Florida, caught a bass that weighed 9 pounds, 3 ounces, and earned the Berkley Big Bass boater award of $505.



Adam Giran of Wesley Chapel, Florida, won the Strike King co-angler division and $1,902 Saturday, after bringing five bass to the scale that totaled 19 pounds, 8 ounces.

The top 10 Strike King co-anglers finished:

1st:        Adam Giran, Wesley Chapel, Fla., five bass, 19-8, $1,902
2nd:       Matt Russell, Elkton, Md., five bass, 19-2, $1,303
3rd:       Timothy Perdue, Casselberry, Fla., four bass, 16-15, $634
4th:        David Jones, Umatilla, Fla., five bass, 16-4, $444
5th:        Chase Brumfield, Middleburg, Fla., five bass, 16-1, $380
6th:        Sean Ripley, Lakeland, Fla., five bass, 15-1, $349
7th:        Sam Goldberg, Boynton Beach, Fla., five bass, 14-11, $317
8th:        David White, Winter Garden, Fla., five bass, 14-8, $285
9th:        Pat Herolt, Citrus Springs, Fla., five bass, 14-7, $254
10th:     Jordan Elmore, Saint Petersburg, Fla., five bass, 14-4, $222

Matt Russell of Elkton, Maryland, earned the Berkley Big Bass co-angler award of $252, catching a bass that weighed in at 6 pounds, 15 ounces – the largest co-angler catch of the day.

After four events, Ryan Crowley of Yulee, Florida, leads the Fishing Clash Gator Division Angler of the Year (AOY) race with 949 points, while Evrett Hunter of Inverness, Florida, leads the Fishing Clash Gator Division Co-Angler of the Year race with 961 points.

The next event for BFL Gator Division anglers will be held Sept. 28-29, at Lake Okeechobee in Clewiston, Florida. 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. 10-12 BFL Regional tournament on Santee Cooper Lakes in Clarendon County, South Carolina. 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, Strike King, Suzuki, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota 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.



MillerTech Renews and Expands Major League Fishing Sponsorship

Leading Lithium Battery and Renewable Energy Product Brand Expands Sponsorship as Official Sponsor of the MLF Bass Pro Tour and Title Sponsor of Bass Pro Tour Stage Four

BENTON, Ky. (April 23, 2024) – Major League Fishing (MLF) and MillerTech, a premium lithium battery company known for harnessing the power of innovation, integrity and exceptional customer service, announced today a renewed and expanded partnership through the 2024 season. In addition to being an Official Sponsor of the 2024 Bass Pro Tour, MillerTech has been named the title sponsor of the 2024 MLF Bass Pro Tour MillerTech Stage Four Presented by REDCON1, held April 30 – May 5 at Lake Eufaula in Eufaula, Oklahoma.

“Many of our tournament anglers rely on MillerTech Lithium Batteries to keep their boats and electronics charged so they can focus on the competition,” said Kathy Fennel, MLF Executive Vice President and General Manager. “We’re thrilled to renew and expand our partnership through the 2024 season and are proud to continue to showcase the MillerTech brand on and off the water to our loyal MLF fans.”

MillerTech began its partnership with MLF in 2023. Per terms of its renewed agreement, the brand will receive increased exposure through multiple MLF outlets, including television and livestream broadcasts, the MLF website and social media outlets and onsite activation opportunities and signage at MillerTech Stage Four and all Bass Pro Tour events.

In addition to the MLF sponsorship, MillerTech will continue to sponsor a growing list of Bass Pro Tour pros, including Adrian Avena, Brent Chapman, Dustin Connell, David Dudley, Cole Floyd, Anthony Gagliardi, John Hunter, Justin Lucas, Fred Roumbanis, Ryan Salzman, Colby Schrumpf, Greg Vinson, Joshua Weaver and Jacob Wheeler.

“The team at MillerTech Lithium Batteries is honored to be the title sponsor for Stage Four of the 2024 Bass Pro Tour,” said Lester Miller, General Manager, MillerTech Energy Solutions, LLC.  “When our great team of professional anglers take on this awesome fishery, it will be extremely important for them to have reliable battery systems that can give them confidence and the peace of mind that they deserve.  

“We are blessed to be able to provide that for them. This sponsorship is only one way for us to show our appreciation to the anglers and the fishing community that continues to support our brand, and our mission of creating a better tomorrow!”

For more information about MLF, its tournaments and sponsors, visit MajorLeagueFishing.com. To learn more about MillerTech, its commitment to innovation, integrity and a brighter, greener future, visit MillerTechEnergy.com.



Bass Pro Shops’ Latest Expansion: What It Means for Bass Fishing Enthusiasts and the Retail Landscape

Bass Pro Shops Expansion: A Game-Changer for Bass Fishing Retail

Attention, all you bass fishing enthusiasts out there! We have exciting news that is sure to make your reels spin with anticipation. The ever-popular Bass Pro Shops, already a behemoth in the world of fishing retail, is preparing to open not one, not two, but three new stores! And we’re not talking about your run-of-the-mill fishing shops. No, these will be mega-stores catering to all of your fishing needs and then some. With locations set to open in Spring, TX; Niles, OH; and Clifton Park, NY, Bass Pro Shops is affirming its commitment to ensuring that there is always a haven for anglers within reasonable reach1.

“What’s the big deal?” you might be wondering. Well, allow me to share with you the magnitude of this expansion and what it means for the future of bass fishing retail. This move represents a seismic shift in the industry, evidencing the growing popularity of bass fishing and the outdoor lifestyle. Beyond being mere structures stocked with fishing gear, these stores will serve as community hubs, where anglers of all levels can converge, share stories, and kindle their passion for fishing.

Certainly, the impact goes far beyond Bass Pro Shops itself. The expansion of this retail giant serves as a rising tide that lifts all boats in the bass fishing industry. More stores mean increased access to gear, job opportunities for fishing aficionados, and an enhanced platform for promoting conservation and outdoor education.

But let’s delve deeper into the implications for bass fishing retail. The growth of Bass Pro Shops inexorably reshapes the landscape, bringing both challenges and opportunities to other players in the market. While it may seem daunting for smaller retailers to go head-to-head with such a giant, the truth is that the overall growth in interest and sales sparked by Bass Pro Shops’ expansion will benefit the entire industry. The greater availability of fishing gear in these new stores might attract a larger customer base, expanding the market and driving growth across the board.

Moreover, the presence of Bass Pro Shops in local communities acts as a catalyst for economic development. When a new store opens, it injects vitality into the surrounding economy. Think about it – jobs are created, tourism is fostered, and local businesses thrive. It’s not just the direct employment opportunities at the store itself but also the ripple effect that benefits a myriad of other establishments. Restaurants, hotels, gas stations, and various retail shops experience an uplift as fishing enthusiasts come from near and far to visit the Bass Pro Shops mecca.

At its core, however, Bass Pro Shops has always embodied a commitment to more than just selling fishing rods and tackle. Conservation and the drive to help families immerse themselves in the wonders of the great outdoors are deeply ingrained in the company’s ethos. With the establishment of these new mega-stores, Bass Pro Shops reinforces that commitment on a grander scale. By building community hubs where anglers can congregate, learn, and share their passion, the company ensures that future generations have abundant opportunities to fall in love with bass fishing and the natural world1.

In conclusion, the expansion of Bass Pro Shops represents a pivotal moment for anyone who cherishes bass fishing. It signifies the sport’s surging popularity and foreshadows even greater possibilities in the future. Whether you are a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet in the world of angling, these new stores will serve as a portal to a realm of adventure right in your backyard.

Get ready to gear up and go fishing – the future of bass fishing retail looks brighter than ever! So let’s cast our lines, reel in some memories, and enjoy every minute of this thrilling ride. The world of bass fishing is calling, and Bass Pro Shops is answering with open arms.



Zac Wagner & Aaron Novitski Win CATT Cooper River with 5 bass weighing 25.77lbs

Next up is the Cooper River Spring Final April 27th! $130 Final Entry – $140 at Ramp Optional $25 side pot! You only had to enter 1 Cooper River Spring Qualifier to be eligible to enter the Final!

Bubba Dennis & Kevin Brock win the Cooper River Spring Points and will fish the Final free!

Zac Wagner & Aaron Novitski win the Cooper River with 5 bass weighing 25.77 lbs!

Justin Craven & Michael Craven weighed in 17.39 lbs good enough for 2nd Place PLUS they weighed in the BNF at a whopping 10.93 lbs!

3rd went to Michael Gammons with 16.62 lbs!

Brian Brunson & Andrew Crump 4th Place 15.44 lbs!

CJ Cannington took 5th with 13.15 lbs!

6th Place David Driggers & Lamce Lambert 12.48 lbs!

TeamBFWeightWinningsPoints
Zac Wagner – Aaron Novitski8.2725.77$1,075.00110
Justin Craven – Michael Craven10.9317.39$475.00109
Michael Gammons5.4816.62$200.00108
Brian Brunson – Andrew Crump6.3315.44$150.00107
CJ Cannington0.0013.15$125.00106
David Driggers – Lance Lambert4.6812.48$100.00105
Johnny Brinson – Jay Ayers3.8312.34$75.00104
Scotty Mixon – Daphine Mixon5.4212.08103
Brant Schuler – Hunter Hackworth0.0011.21102
Grant Powell – Travis Gatlin0.0010.61101
Joseph Giampa – Justin Giampa0.0010.55100
Michael Dibelo – Edward Punchak3.9310.1299
Andrew Baker – Charlie Baker0.009.9298
Chris Jimenez – Brian Gainey0.009.3197
Kyle Welch – James Fender0.009.0896
Jimmy McCants – Bob Watford0.008.7895
Brian Surowiec – Walter Cumbee0.008.7494
Bubba Dennis – Kevin Brock0.008.1293
Kyle Howard- Joey Howard0.007.7992
Willie Weatherford -Willie Weatherford0.007.6491
Glen Varner – Vic Varner0.007.6090
Joey Robertson – Brian McMillian0.007.0289
Michael Ard – Jeff Parsons0.006.7688
Jimmy King – Louie Lewis0.006.5987
Darrel Knies0.005.6886
David Padgett0.003.7685
Mike Freeman – Nick Kirk0.001.6984
Sean McElhaney0.000.0074
John Henry Ebeling – Hunter Christensen0.000.0074
Troy Hutt – Ben Newman0.000.0074
Thomas Hepstall0.000.0074
Winkey Watford – Wyatt Watford0.000.0074
James Skelton0.000.0074
Chad Pennell- Brandon Riley0.000.0074
Drew Brown – Brandon McMillian0.000.0074
Total Entrys$2,100.00
BONUS $$575.00
Total Paid At Ramp$2,200.00
Cooper River 2024 Spring Final Fund$100.00
2024 CATT Championship Fund$25.00
Cooper River 2024 Spring Final Fund Total$610.00