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Dexter Andrews Leads Day 1 of The Big Bass Tour on Smith Mountain Lake

Brian Carter
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Dexter Andrews Leads Day 1 of The Big Bass Tour on Smith Mountain Lake

Smith Mountain Lake, – The highly anticipated Big Bass Tour on Smith Mountain Lake kicked off with a bang as anglers showcased their skills, reeling in impressive catches during the first day of the tournament.

In a thrilling start to the competition, angler Dexter Andrews set the bar high right from the beginning, landing a whopping 7.92lb Bass within the first hour, making him the early leader. However, the excitement didn’t stop there. In hour three, David Peters stormed onto the stage with a remarkable 7.85lb Bass, giving Andrews tough competition and taking the 2nd overall big Bass for the event.

Despite high expectations, the day did not see the giant-sized Bass that many had hoped for. Smith Mountain Lake, known for its tough and unforgiving conditions, tested the skills of the participating anglers. Yet, the tournament was far from short on great-looking Bass, keeping the spectators on the edge of their seats.

As the sun set on day one, the anglers and fishing enthusiasts eagerly anticipated what day two would bring. The big question on everyone’s mind: would Dexter Andrews’ impressive 7.92lb Bass hold up against the fierce competition over the next two days, securing his chance to take home the coveted Nitro Z18?

“Only time will tell what the next days have in store for us,” remarked one of the tournament organizers, reflecting the anticipation and excitement that filled the air. Anglers and fans alike are gearing up for an action-packed continuation of the tournament, as they eagerly await the unfolding drama of the Big Bass Tour on Smith Mountain Lake. Stay tuned for more updates as the competition heats up and anglers battle it out for the ultimate prize on day #2.

BIG BASS TOUR RESULTS

We have uploaded day one Photos if decide to use one please tag us on social media @thebasscast



Forecasted winds force cancellation of Bassmaster College Bracket seeding day

Brian Carter
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Forecasted winds force cancellation of Bassmaster College Bracket seeding day

Bassmaster College Team of the Year anglers Easton Fothergill (right) and Nick Dumke (left) will take the top two seeds in the Bassmaster College Classic Bracket presented by Lew’s when competition starts September 30. 

Photo by Chase Sansom/B.A.S.S.

September 29, 2023

Forecasted winds force cancellation of Bassmaster College Bracket seeding day

CollegeBracket_Lews_logo.png

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. — With the forecast calling for periods of sustained 20 mph winds and gusts up to 30 mph on Friday, B.A.S.S. officials have opted to cancel seeding day at the 2023 Bassmaster College Classic Bracket presented by Lew’s. Milford Lake will not be put off-limits, so the eight college anglers competing will have the option to practice if they feel they may do so safely. 

With the canceled day, Easton Fothergill and Nick Dumke from the University of Montevallo will claim the first two seeds respectively by virtue of winning the Bassmaster Team of the Year title. From there, the seeding is based on each team’s finish in the Strike King Bassmaster College National Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops. The 2023 national champions Tucker Smith and Hayden Marbut from Auburn University will claim the No. 3 and No. 4 seeds, followed by Bethel University’s Levi Mullins and Matthew Cummings in the No. 5 and No. 6 positions. University of Montevallo anglers Brody Robison and Jack Alexander will round out the field as the No. 7 and No. 8 seeds. 

In the head-to-head, elimination-style event, anglers will compete as individuals and the winner will earn a berth in the 2024 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Toyota scheduled for March 22-24 in Tulsa. Anglers will launch from Farnum Creek Boat Ramp at Acorns Resort starting at 7 a.m. CT for this catch, weigh, release tournament and end their day at 3 p.m.

FS1 kicks off a day of college sports with morning action from Day 2 of the tournament beginning at 7 a.m. Bassmaster College Classic Bracket LIVE will feature real-time coverage from every boat on Saturday and Sunday as anglers battle to advance. Continuing coverage of the tournament each afternoon and on Monday can be streamed on Bassmaster.com and the FOX Sports digital platforms.  

Here are the matchups for Day 1:

(1) Easton Fothergill, University of Montevallo vs. (8) Jack Alexander, University of Montevallo

While he goes to school in the middle of Alabama, Fothergill is from Minnesota. Although he hasn’t fished Milford before, he knows how to fish in the Midwest which will only help in this event. With a fifth-place finish at Pickwick Lake, Fothergill and Dumke became the first Bassmaster College Team of the Year winners to also make the Top 10 at the College National Championship. Fothergill is still recovering from emergency brain surgery but is close to full strength. During his initial recovery, Fothergill was able to memorize Google Earth and has a good idea of how he wants to attack this lake.  

Alexander will have a tall task facing off against his teammate in the first round. Alexander and partner Brody Robison finished 12th in the College Team of the Year standings and were the final team to qualify for the College Classic Bracket. Most of their damage was done with forward-facing sonar, but Alexander was able to drag a jig to add some bass as well. If a shallow bite materializes, Alexander could be a contender. 

(2) Nick Dumke, University of Montevallo vs. (7) Brody Robison, University of Montevallo 

Dumke is the second half of the 2023 Bassmaster College Team of the Year and just like Fothergill, is from Minnesota and is plenty familiar with Midwest fishing. His prowess catching both smallmouth and largemouth will go a long way in this event. Both he and Fothergill have shown the ability to figure out any fishery in the country, notching Top 30 finishes at each of the four 2023 Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops events. 

Robison utilized forward-facing sonar to help him and Alexander finish third at the National Championship. Depending on conditions, forward-facing sonar could play a major role in this event, which could help Robison pull off an upset over his teammate. Outside of the Red River event, he and Alexander finished 41st or better in the first three regular-season events spanning three vastly different fisheries. 

(3) Tucker Smith, Auburn University vs (6) Matthew Cummings, Bethel University

Smith is the only angler in the College Classic Bracket that has competed in this event before. In 2021, Smith finished second to Tristan McCormick by just 3 ounces. Since then, Smith has only added to his accomplishments, including winning the 2023 Strike King Bassmaster College National Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops. Whether on a team or individually, Smith has proven he is a skilled angler and will be a tough matchup for anyone. 

Cummings, meanwhile, has been competing with Levi Mullins for the last couple of years and the duo has been very consistent. In two tough National Championships in 2022 and 2023, the Bethel anglers secured Top 10 finishes. Now Cummings will get to showcase his talents individually. He threw a Senko behind Mullins at Pickwick, which is the same bait Nick Ratliff used to win the 2018 Bracket at Milford Lake. 

(4) Hayden Marbut, Auburn University vs (5) Levi Mullins, Bethel University

With Smith as his partner, Marbut has now won a Strike King Bassmaster High School National Championship presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors and a Bassmaster College National Championship. The former member of the Bassmaster High School All-American Fishing Team presented by Academy Sports + Outdoors will now embark on his first Bracket journey. With Milford being a relatively unknown reservoir for these anglers, Marbut will have a great opportunity to showcase his versatility and potentially utilize forward-facing sonar.

Mullins, meanwhile, will be competing in his first College Classic Bracket. Throwing a jig helped Mullins finish second to Smith and Marbut in this year’s National Championship. With how versatile a jig is, the potential is there for Mullins to make a deep run. Kentucky Lake is also becoming a strong smallmouth and largemouth fishery, which should also help Mullins figure out Milford Lake.

The event is being hosted by the Geary County, Kansas Convention and Visitors Bureau.



Big Bass Tour Thrills Anglers at Smith Mountain Lake

Brian Carter
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Big Bass Tour Thrills Anglers at Smith Mountain Lake

Date: September 29, 2023
Time: 10:30 AM

In a picturesque setting at Smith Mountain Lake, 750 enthusiastic anglers gathered in a display of skill and determination at the highly anticipated Big Bass Tour. With the promise of a brand-new Nitro Z18 boat to the over all winner and a substantial cash prize given out each hour, these fishing enthusiasts were prepared to battle it out for the catch of a lifetime.

As the sun rose on this beautiful morning, the atmosphere was charged with excitement and anticipation. Anglers from all walks of life, armed with their rods and reels, eagerly set out on the calm waters of Smith Mountain Lake, ready to showcase their fishing prowess.

One of the standout features of the day has been the top water bite. Anglers quickly adapted their strategies, downsizing their bait of choice to entice the elusive big bass lurking beneath the lake’s surface. The challenge to outwit these crafty creatures heightened the thrill and added an extra layer of excitement to the competition.

Throughout the day, anglers will have the opportunity to participate in hourly weigh-ins, adding an element of suspense and drama. The weigh-ins not only test the skills of the participants but also provide a platform to showcase the impressive catches made by these talented anglers & there chance to take home some cash as well.

The grand prize, a state-of-the-art Nitro Z18 boat, has become the ultimate goal for many competitors. However, the allure of the cash prizes, which increase with each hour, has also captured the attention of the eager anglers. The chance to walk away with both prestige and financial reward has intensified the competitive spirit on the lake &.

As the hours tick by, it remains to be seen how the day will unfold. Will the Giant bass be caught today? Will a dark horse emerge from the crowd to claim victory? The excitement is palpable, and the camaraderie amongst the participants is evident as they share their stories and techniques, creating an atmosphere of friendly competition.

The Big Bass Tour on Smith Mountain Lake has not only provided an opportunity for anglers to showcase their skills but has also united the fishing community in a celebration of their shared passion. The event serves as a testament to the dedication and love anglers have for their sport, while also promoting the natural beauty and abundant resources of Smith Mountain Lake.

As the sun continues to shine down on this September day, the anglers push forward, driven by their desire to be crowned the ultimate champion. The Big Bass Tour on Smith Mountain Lake promises to be a memorable event, cementing its place as a must-attend competition for fishing enthusiasts from far and wide.

Stay tuned as we bring you updates on this thrilling tournament and the remarkable catches that are sure to come.

BIG BASS TOUR



Headwaters Adventure Company Announces Partnership with Bass Angler Magazine Tournament Trail – Kayak Series

Brian Carter
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Headwaters Adventure Company Announces Partnership with Bass Angler Magazine Tournament Trail – Kayak Series
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Headwaters Adventure Company Announces Partnership with Bass Angler Magazine Tournament Trail – Kayak Series
*September 28th, 2023 – Dixon, CA*: Headwaters Adventure Company,an industry leader in the West Coast Kayak business, proudly announces its official partnership with the Bass Angler Magazine Tournament Trail- Kayak Series. As the Kayak Series prepares to kick off its debut season, this collaboration promises to elevate the stature of the tournament.Bryan Anondson of Headwaters Adventure Company said, “Backing the West Coast kayak anglers and the organizations that support them has always been a priority for us. Our commitment is driven by our esteemed customers’ fervor for the sport.” This sentiment resonates with Bass Angler Magazine’s devotion to fostering growth within the industry and helping individuals shine in their craft.Kayak Series Tournament Director, Michael Bray, praised Headwaters Adventure Company, saying, “They combine the warmth and personal touch of a family-run store with the impeccable service and reliability that anglers and paddlers seek.”

**About Headwaters Adventure Company** Offering an extensive range of kayak brands such as Hobie, Old Town, Crescent, Eddyline, and Dagger Kayaks, Headwaters Adventure Company is dedicated to serving both seasoned anglers and regular paddling aficionados.Their inventory boasts accessories from top-tier brands, including Yak-Attack,Ram Mounts, NRS, Z-Pro Lithium, Power Pole, and more, ensuring a tailored experience for all. Matt Guthrie, affectionately dubbed Matt Mandu, brings a unique flair to customizing each vessel to its owner’s preferences.

**About BAMTT- Kayak Series**Presented by Bass Angler Magazine Tournament Trail and spearheaded by Mark Lassagne, the Kayak Series aspires to redefine the image of the West Coast Kayak angler, emphasizing utmost professionalism. The series will feature four regular season events, culminating in a Championship at Lake Berryessa on September 28th and29th, 2024. Michael Bray, always available for inquiries, is enthusiastic about hosting an event that nurtures anglers’ aspirations both in competition and beyond. With the support of a national publication, the series promises unparalleled media exposure for deserving anglers, complemented by attractive prizes. Sign-ups starting early October at www.bamtrail.com BAM Kayak Trail Dates and Lakes:03/09/2024 Tulloch- Motherlode Lake, Starting later in the season for angler safety/enjoyment. 04/20/2024 Rollins- Diverse Body of Water, Smaller Lake, Ample time of year.

06/22/2024 Trinity- One of the best fisheries on the West Coast. 06/22/2024
09/07/2024 Delta- Possibility of Open launch in Co-co county.
09/28-09/29/2024 No Entry Fee Championship @ Berryessa- Single Launch, Top 25  
For more details or to place orders, visit Headwaters Adventure Company in Redding, California, or call 530-223-2411 for shipping options.***For Questions concerning the kayak trail contact Michael Bray [email protected]For Media Enquiries or advertising contact Mark Lassagne [email protected]



Mike Corbishley Takes Day One Lead at Lake Eufaula

Brian Carter
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Mike Corbishley Takes Day One Lead at Lake Eufaula

With 16-2 brought to the stage, Mike Corbishley leads the charge after Day One on Lake Eufaula.

Story by Justin Brouillard | Photos by Tanner & Travis Lyons

Mike Corbishley takes the day one lead at Lake Eufaula with a 16-pound, 2-ounce bag including a 5-pound, 6-ounce lunker. Covering water like his roommate Trent Palmer, Corbishley is rotating through 30 Cashion Rods and fishing both looking at them on Active Target and visually with his eyes up in the dirt.

“Everything is situational for me right now,” he said. “I am junk fishing, fishing how I like to fish and covering all depths making decisions as I see it.”

Brandon Perkins

Tennessee angler Brandon Perkins finishes day one at Lake Eufaula in second place with a five-bass limit of 15-pounds, 14-ounce. Of all the anglers fishing the docks, Perkins may have caught less keepers, but his seven bites yielded a bigger weight.

“I knew I had some fish but it is tough and bites are hard to come by doing what I am doing. I can catch smaller fish, but I am fishing in a way where I avoid those bites,” he said. “I had a dead fish penalty today and lost one that would have given me a pound more in weight.”

Even though he focused his efforts on one smaller area, Perkins does have other places he can go and fish. He has a good track record in Oklahoma and will take it one day at a time for the rest of the week.

“I feel like I understand this a bit; I am confident banking on the docks and I enjoy fishing that way too,” he added.

Trent Palmer

With a 5-pound, 4-ounce lunker to anchor his day one bag of 14-pounds, 11-ounces, winner of Stop Number Four at Saginaw Bay, Trent Palmer finishes day one in third place at Lake Eufaula. Admittedly fishing a body of water that doesn’t necessarily fit his style, in the last couple hours of practice, Palmer located some key areas to get his tournament off on the right track.

“I didn’t practice at all how I ended is fishing today,” said Palmer. “That’s good and bad, but I will just have to go and practice each day and keep finding new fish. This is not my style of lake, but the way I am catching them is how I like to fish.”

After catching his day’s limit, Palmer went back to work expanding on his new-found pattern of running and gunning with a topwater bait in hand. He expects more pressure in his areas as the week goes on but is looking forward to getting back out there on day two.

“I’m sharing some water with Mike (Corbishley) and Pat (Walters), and some guys saw us catching fish, but we will need to end up finding some new water every day to make it last,” he added.

Will Harkins

Will Harkins came into the event wanting a shot to win Progressive Angler of the Year at the final event of the season at Lake Lanier. His 13-pound, 15-pound day-one effort on Eufaula lands him in the fourth-place spot and moves him up a few places in the standings after day one.

Coming into the event, Harkins knew there would be fish everywhere and he would need to sample as much Eufaula as he could in practice. The result was a morning stretch to get his day going and build confidence, and then moving to the afternoon areas to hunt for bigger fish.

“I burned a few things down but they are moving so you never know,” said Harkins. “I caught as many as I could, but most of my weight came in the last two hours, giving me not much time to practice for tomorrow.”

Harkins is sharing some water in the morning but believes his afternoon deal is split between him and another top-five angler. The outlook for tomorrow is more of the same.

“I got some morning stuff and just slowing down and taking what I can get. I will start back there to get the ball rolling and move around after looking for some bigger fish again,” he added.

Ron Johnson

Finishing day one in fifth place, Ron Johnson stuck with his best area and weeded through 20 keepers to catch his limit of 13 pounds, 14 ounces. With practice not getting off on the right foot, later on day two he discovered a bite and stuck with it on day one.

“I am not really fishing around other anglers and I am extremely comfortable the way I am fishing,” he said. “Seeing them on Active Target certainly helps and I can present the bait right where I need to to get bites.”

Johnson plans on returning to his main area and figuring out the fish every day.

The rest of the best:
Marc Schilling – 13-0
John Cox (Florida) – 13-0
Reagan Nelson – 12-13
Patrick Walters – 11-13
Charlie Apperson – 11-12

DAY ONE LEADERBOARD

Join us for Day Two on Lake Eufaula with the launch out of Nichols Point @ 7:00 am CST. Be sure to catch all the action here and join us LIVE starting at 8:00 am CST with Luke & Fat Cat.



Bagley pro Noah Schultz takes four championships in five years; offers timely fall fishing intel. 

Brian Carter
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Bagley pro Noah Schultz takes four championships in five years; offers timely fall fishing intel. 
Noah Wins Four Arks
Bagley pro Noah Schultz takes four championships in five years; offers timely fall fishing intel. 
BEMIDJI, Minn. (September 28, 2023) – Biblical Noah had an Ark. Bass fishing’s Noah has four. Or more accurately, four new Skeeter/Yamaha packages he’s trailered home after winning four of the last five Classic Bass Champions Tour finales. An unprecedented feat.This Noah is Bagley pro Noah Schultz of Waseca, Minnesota. His most recent victory was seizing the 2023 Tour Championship on Minnesota’s East/West Rush Lakes, where he took the podium and a new Skeeter ZX200 outfitted with a 200 Yamaha – the fully-rigged package valued at $70,000.So, where are all those boats? Wisely, Schultz fishes the new ones and sells the one-year-olds. 
The late summer championship saw Schultz picking apart massive flats, zeroing in on small patches of shallow eelgrass. “I used two baits,” said Schultz, a father of seven who operates a thriving Amazon-based business with his wife. “Bass were relating to those weeds and hitting either a ChatterBait or Bagley Balsa Wake Bait. With the wake bait, I’d slow roll it inches below the surface and just above the grass.” Interestingly, Schultz knew precisely where to cast, too, his Humminbird literally revealing the direction bass were swimming. Brilliant…  
Bagley Wake Bait (CHARTREUSE/SHAD)
Bagley B1 (COOKED CRAWDAD)
FALL FISHING TIPSWith autumn just getting its grips, water temperatures are on the gradual decline and late summer fishing transmogrifying into early fall patterns. Tournament season might be over, but that doesn’t keep Schultz off the water. In fact, we’re getting into his favorite months of the year.“It’s a trend every year,” said Schultz of the big bass wallowing to shoreline areas. “The cooler nights really trigger the big fish. They start moving up to the bank. You’ll still find schools of fish offshore and along the weedlines, but the big fish definitely move up.”Schultz hitches his success to locating premium, isolated shoreline cover. “I’m fishing docks, pads, and laydowns,” said Schultz. He peppers those targets with crankbaits, too, squarebills specifically His first choice is a Bagley B1. The time-tested, 2-inch balsawood bait runs from 5- to 6-feet and presents a lively wiggle. Its squared bill is also famous for deflecting off the cover Schultz fishes, severely limiting snags. 
Bagley B2 (BLUE CHARTREUSE SHAD)
Bagley B2 (ORANGE BELLY GILL)
When asked about color selection, Schultz said he keeps things elementary. “It’s pretty simple. I fish bright patterns in dirty water and natural colors in clear water.” His favorite for colored water, bar none, is Baby Bass, which sports a bright yellow belly and dark bass-looking back. He also keeps a combo ready with a Bagley B1 in Red Crawdad tied-on. As stated, clearer conditions call for something natural. That translates into colors such as Black Back/Silver Foil, Blue Olive Shad, and maybe Tennessee Shad/Orange Belly. Regardless of color, he works the B1 with 7-foot crankbait rod with a medium-heavy action. All his fall cranking is done with straight 15-pound fluorocarbon line. As fall progresses, temperatures falling even further, Schultz focuses on shallow rock and any remaining green vegetation, placing an emphasis on coontail. On his home waters in southern Minnesota most lakes feature stained water and limited vegetation. And what vegetation does exist dies in the fall, subsequently pushing bass to the rocks. On lakes to the north with clearer water and more substantial vegetation, he’s more apt to concentrate on green weeds.
Schultz also fishes the modestly larger Bagley B2 in late fall, sticking with the same pattern-to-water-color preferences. He pairs each with a 7-foot, medium-power rod with a soft tip.His fall doesn’t end there. In fact, Schultz launches his Skeeter until the weather no longer permits, boat landings freezing up. With water temps in the 40’s, gravedigging into the 30’s, you’ll find him throwing a jig and pig or tempting sluggish fish with a Ned Rig powered by Northland’s new Nedster Jig. With water that cold he often mobilizes to natural lakes that still maintain healthy coontail. 



Major League Fishing’s 2023 Tackle Warehouse Invitationals to Premiere Saturday on CBS Sports

Brian Carter
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Major League Fishing’s 2023 Tackle Warehouse Invitationals to Premiere Saturday on CBS Sports

Major League Fishing’s Tackle Warehouse Invitationals Set to Premiere on CBS Sports, New Episodes Premiere Every Saturday from 9-11 a.m. ET

BENTON, Ky. (Sept. 28, 2023) –Major League Fishing’s (MLF) 2023 Tackle Warehouse Invitationals are set to premiere this weekend, Saturday, Sept. 30 at 9 a.m. ET with a two-hour episode on CBS Sports.

Each MLF Tackle Warehouse Invitational featured a field of 150 anglers competing over three days in a five-fish, weigh-in format. In addition to the lucrative prize money, the winner of each of the six Invitationals receives an invitation to compete in REDCREST 2025, Major League Fishing’s most prestigious tournament. Top pros in Tackle Warehouse Invitational AOY standings at the end of the season will receive an invitation to compete in the 2025 Bass Pro Tour.

The first two-hour episode of Major League Fishing’s Tackle Warehouse Invitationals premiering Saturday will showcase the first event of the season – the Power-Pole Stop 1 at Lake Okeechobee Presented by Phoenix Boats. Each week a new episode will premiere on CBS Sports, through mid-November.

The complete air schedule for the 2023 Tackle Warehouse Invitationals on CBS Sports is:

–  Sept. 30    Power-Pole Stop 1 at Lake Okeechobee Presented by Phoenix Boats
–  Oct. 7        Toyota Stop 2 at Clarks Hill Lake Presented by Lowrance
–  Oct. 14      Epic Baits Stop 3 at Lake Eufaula Presented by B&W Trailer Hitches
–  Oct. 21      Phoenix Boats Stop 4 at Lake of the Ozarks Presented by Mystik Lubricants
–  Oct. 28      T-H Marine Stop 5 at the Potomac River
–  Nov. 4        Mercury Stop 6 at the Mississippi River
–  Nov. 11     (9 a.m. ET) Abu Garcia College Fishing 2023 National Championship at Lake Toho Presented by Lowrance
–  Nov. 11     (10 a.m. ET) Phoenix Bass Fishing League 2023 All-American at Lake Hartwell Presented by T-H Marine

The full television schedule can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.

Proud sponsors of the 2023 MLF Tackle Warehouse Invitationals include: 13 Fishing, Abu Garcia, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, Black Rifle Coffee, E3, Epic Baits, Favorite Fishing, Fox Rent a Car, General Tire, Grundéns, Lew’s, Lowrance, Mercury, Mossy Oak, Mystik Lubricants, Onyx, Phoenix Boats, Polaris, Power-Pole, Strike King, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Wiley X 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.



B.A.S.S. announces three-division schedule for 2024 Bassmaster Opens

Brian Carter
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B.A.S.S. announces three-division schedule for 2024 Bassmaster Opens

The 2024 St. Croix Bassmaster Opens Series will feature nine tournaments — three each in three divisions — covering eight states.

Photo by Kyle Jessie/B.A.S.S.

September 28, 2023

B.A.S.S. announces three-division schedule for 2024 Bassmaster Opens

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BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. officials announced Thursday the schedule for the 2024 St. Croix Bassmaster Opens, once again mixing frequent destinations with some that have barely been touched by the organization during its 55-year history.

The Opens circuit, which has become one of the most competitive and most followed in the sport, will again feature three divisions with three events in each. Winners of all events will be eligible for a berth in the 2025 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Toyota, but only the anglers who fish the Elite Qualifiers Division (all nine events) will be eligible to earn invitations to the 2025 Bassmaster Elite Series.

Opens Tournament Director Hank Weldon said he’s looking forward to another hotly contested journey across the country with some of the finest anglers in the world.

“We’re still wrapping up our 2023 season, and it’s been an amazing ride visiting such a variety of fisheries over a seventh-month stretch,” Weldon said. “It’s exciting to think it’s only going to get better with a 2024 schedule that we’re really proud of.”

The schedule will kick off with a trip to the world-famous largemouth factory of Lake Okeechobee in Clewiston, Fla., Feb. 1-3. The “Big O,” which ranked 10th overall on Bassmaster Magazine’s annual 100 Best Bass Lakes list, has hosted 23 major B.A.S.S. events, including the 2023 Bassmaster Elite Series season-opener that was won by Louisiana pro Tyler Rivet with 86 pounds, 15 ounces.

The remainder of the Division 1 slate will play out over the following eight months with a pair of trips to South Carolina.

The first Palmetto State stop will be March 7-9 at Santee Cooper Lakes in Clarendon County, S.C., where Georgia pro Drew Cook won an Elite in 2022 with a whopping 105-5 and Oklahoma pro Luke Palmer followed by winning an Elite event held there this year with 96-14. The Division 1 slate will wrap up on Oct. 10-12 in Anderson, S.C., with a visit to Lake Hartwell — the site of four previous Bassmaster Classics.

Officials from the Clarendon County Chamber of Commerce, host for the Santee Cooper Lakes event, said they are thrilled to have B.A.S.S. visiting the venue again.

“Clarendon County is beyond excited to welcome B.A.S.S. to the Santee Cooper Lakes,” said Jesse Surette, director of tourism, Clarendon County Chamber of Commerce. “This historic fishery has been a staple in the top level of the sport for decades, and this event will be a great opportunity for Bassmaster Opens anglers to earn their way onto the Bassmaster Elite Series and fish for a chance to compete on the biggest stage in bass fishing, the Bassmaster Classic.”

The schedule for Division 2 will get its start Feb. 15-17 on a fishery that hasn’t been nearly as familiar to B.A.S.S. — Lake Ouachita in Hot Springs, Ark. It’ll be the organization’s first trip to Ouachita in more than two decades and only its fourth stop for a major event on the 40,000-acre fishery since Tennessee legend Bill Dance won the first B.A.S.S. event held there in 1969.

“Hot Springs is eagerly looking forward to being the host city for the first Bassmaster Opens Series (Division 2) Tournament of 2024 on Lake Ouachita in February,” said Steve Arrison, CEO of Visit Hot Springs. “Our city knows fishing, and we can’t wait to show the Bassmaster competitors a great venue for their tournament, as well as the wide array of attractions and activities that ‘America’s Spa’ has to offer. We guarantee everyone is going to have a great time both on and off the water.”

From Arkansas, the Division 2 lineup will move to Alabama’s Logan Martin Lake, May 2-4. Unlike previous events at Logan Martin, which have been held more toward the lower end of the 17,000-acre Coosa River fishery, this tournament will be held in Lincoln, Ala. — more toward the upper end of the lake — at the new 38-acre Lincoln’s Landing facility.

Then it’ll be back to Lake Eufaula, Okla., for the conclusion of the Division 2 slate June 20-22. B.A.S.S. made just its fourth trip to the super-fertile 102,000-acre fishery in Eufaula, Okla., this year for a wildly entertaining Open that was won by Alabama pro Joey Nania with a three-day total of 52-8.

Division 3 will represent the Northern swing for the Opens, beginning with an event on the smallmouth paradise of Lake St. Clair (ranked seventh overall on Bassmaster Magazine’s 2023 100 Best Bass Lakes list) in Macomb County, Mich., July 11-13. The lake has hosted nine major B.A.S.S. events, including a 2023 Elite that was won by the 2023 Dakota Lithium Bassmaster Rookie of the Year Joey Cifuentes with 91-8 — the highest winning weight ever in a B.A.S.S. tournament on St. Clair.

Following St. Clair, Division 3 will feature perhaps the most intriguing stop on the 2024 schedule with an event on Leech Lake in Walker, Minn., Aug. 22-24. If the venue sounds unfamiliar to fishing fans, it’s because B.A.S.S. has never held a major event on the 102,947-acre fishery in north-central Minnesota.

The lake, which lies mainly within the Leech Lake Indian Reservation and completely within the Chippewa National Forest, is the third-largest body of water in Minnesota and is home to both largemouth and smallmouth bass.

“We are thrilled to welcome the Bassmaster Open to Leech Lake in 2024,” said Leech Lake Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Cindy Wannarka. “This caliber of tournament will offer many positive outcomes, and we are looking forward to partnering with B.A.S.S. and planning for the tournament. We are certain that the Bassmaster Open will not only have a tremendous impact on our local economy, but will also give the Leech Lake area exposure to attract future visitors. We are excited to begin working with the staff and participants as we introduce them to one of the finest fisheries in Minnesota. We are positive that once they visit, they will want to return to our community.”

The conclusion for Division 3 will take place Sept. 12-14 on the Mississippi River in La Crosse, Wis. The fishery has hosted 11 previous major B.A.S.S. events, with Maryland’s Bryan Schmitt winning a recent 2022 Elite there with 63-4.

“When we say this schedule has a little bit of everything, we mean it,” Weldon said. “From Okeechobee largemouth to a mixed bag in Minnesota, anglers who fish all nine events will have their knowledge and abilities tested to the extreme.”

The final event in each division will feature live television coverage on FS1. Through two divisional finals in 2023, more than 780,000 viewers have enjoyed exciting Opens LIVE broadcast coverage from Tennessee’s Watts Bar Reservoir and the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri. 

Registration will open November 7, beginning with B.A.S.S. Life and Nation anglers who want to participate in the Opens EQ Division.

For more information, visit Bassmaster.com/Opens.

2024 St. Croix Bassmaster Opens

Division 1

Feb. 1-3, Lake Okeechobee, Clewiston, Fla.

March 7-9, Santee Cooper Lakes, Clarendon County, S.C.

Oct. 10-12, Lake Hartwell, Anderson, S.C.

Division 2

Feb. 15-17, Lake Ouachita, Hot Springs, Ark.

May 2-4, Logan Martin Lake, Lincoln, Ala.

June 20-22, Lake Eufaula, Eufaula, Okla.

Division 3

July 11-13, Lake St. Clair, Macomb County, Mich.

Aug. 22-24, Leech Lake, Walker, Minn.

Sept. 12-14, Mississippi River, La Crosse, Wis.

Connect with #Bassmaster on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok.

Bassmaster Opens Series Title Sponsor: St. Croix
Bassmaster Opens Series Platinum Sponsor: Toyota
Bassmaster Opens Series Premier Sponsors: Bass Pro Shops, Dakota Lithium, Humminbird, Mercury, Minn Kota, Nitro Boats, Power-Pole, Progressive Insurance, Ranger Boats, Rapala, Skeeter Boats, Yamaha
Bassmaster Opens Series Supporting Sponsors: AFTCO, Daiwa, Garmin, Lew’s, Marathon, Triton Boats, VMC



Five Cities With Great Bass Fishing

Brian Carter
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Five Cities With Great Bass Fishing

Five Cities With Great Bass Fishing

Introduction

When one thinks of urban landscapes, towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and the concrete jungle often come to mind. However, hidden beneath the veneer of modernity, five American cities offer an unexpected treasure to fishing enthusiasts – outstanding bass fishing opportunities. These urban fisheries defy stereotypes and prove that the call of the wild can be answered even in the heart of the city. In this exploration, we’ll embark on a journey to five remarkable cities known for their incredible bass fishing experiences, each with its unique charm and reasons for being celebrated by anglers from far and wide.

  1. Austin, Texas – The Live Music Capital of the World

Nestled in the heart of Texas, Austin is renowned for its vibrant music scene, thriving tech industry, and unique blend of Texan culture and liberal arts. But beyond the guitars and silicon chips, it boasts something else entirely – an impressive bass fishing scene.

Lake Travis: One of the crown jewels of Austin’s urban fishing, Lake Travis, stretches over 63 miles through the Texas Hill Country. The clear, blue waters of the lake provide a habitat for both largemouth and smallmouth bass. Its rocky shores and submerged structures make it a bass angler’s dream. Anglers often find themselves casting their lines under the shadow of the picturesque cliffs that line the lake.

Lady Bird Lake: This urban reservoir, named after the former First Lady, Lady Bird Johnson, offers a tranquil fishing experience right in downtown Austin. The lake is known for its healthy population of largemouth bass. Surrounded by lush greenery and connected by a network of hiking and biking trails, it’s an urban oasis where city dwellers can escape into nature without leaving the city limits.

What makes Austin’s bass fishing so great is not just the abundance of fish, but the experience itself. Imagine casting your line in the early morning, with the sun rising over the horizon, serenaded by the sounds of nature and distant live music wafting through the air. Austin’s vibrant culture seamlessly blends with its natural beauty to create a unique urban fishing experience.

  2. Minneapolis, Minnesota – The City of Lakes

Known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” Minnesota offers an abundance of fishing opportunities. However, none can quite compare to the urban bass fishing scene found in Minneapolis, the state’s largest city.

Lake Minnetonka: Often referred to as the “Crown Jewel” of Minnesota lakes, Lake Minnetonka spans over 14,000 acres and features 125 miles of shoreline. The lake is home to a thriving population of largemouth and smallmouth bass. Anglers flock to its tranquil waters to test their skills and explore its numerous bays, points, and drop-offs. The lake’s natural beauty is accentuated by charming lakeside towns, making it an ideal destination for both fishing and relaxation.

Mississippi River: The mighty Mississippi River flows right through the heart of Minneapolis, offering an urban fishing experience like no other. This iconic river is home to a diverse range of fish, including largemouth and smallmouth bass. Anglers can enjoy the unique juxtaposition of fishing beneath towering city skyscrapers while being surrounded by nature. It’s a remarkable experience that captures the essence of urban fishing.

Minneapolis’s great bass fishing reputation is founded on its abundance of water bodies, quality fisheries, and the ease with which anglers can access them. Whether you prefer a day on a peaceful lake or a more adventurous urban river expedition, Minneapolis has it all.

  1. Chicago, Illinois – The Windy City’s Waters

Chicago, often associated with its bustling streets and iconic architecture, holds a secret for anglers willing to explore its urban waterways. The city offers fantastic bass fishing opportunities, creating a unique fusion of urban and natural experiences.

Lake Michigan: Although not a traditional lake, Lake Michigan is one of the Great Lakes and serves as Chicago’s eastern border. Its vastness provides an opportunity for anglers to target smallmouth bass, known for their aggressive nature and challenging fights. Chicago’s shoreline offers access to this incredible fishery, with its beaches and harbors acting as prime locations to cast a line.

Chicago River: The Chicago River snakes its way through the city, and while it might not be the first place that comes to mind for fishing, it’s home to a thriving population of smallmouth and largemouth bass. Urban anglers can fish beneath the city’s iconic bridges, surrounded by skyscrapers, creating an unforgettable juxtaposition of nature and urbanity.

What makes Chicago a great urban fishery is the diversity of fishing opportunities it offers. Whether you prefer casting your line into the vast expanse of Lake Michigan or exploring the winding waters of the Chicago River, this city has something to satisfy every angler’s cravings.

  1. Phoenix, Arizona – The Desert Oasis

Phoenix, Arizona, is often associated with its scorching desert heat and stunning landscapes. However, it also boasts some of the best urban bass fishing in the Southwest, thanks to its numerous reservoirs and urban lakes.

Lake Pleasant: Located just 30 minutes north of Phoenix, Lake Pleasant offers a unique bass fishing experience against the backdrop of the Arizona desert. The lake is home to largemouth bass and striped bass, making it a popular destination for anglers seeking both variety and adventure. The stark desert surroundings combined with the calm waters of the lake create a surreal atmosphere for fishing.

Urban Lakes: Phoenix is dotted with urban lakes, including Papago Park and Encanto Park, providing accessible fishing opportunities right in the heart of the city. These lakes are regularly stocked with fish, ensuring that anglers have a good chance of making a catch. It’s a perfect way for city residents to unwind after a long day of work.

What sets Phoenix apart as a great urban fishery is its ability to offer an oasis of outdoor recreation in the midst of the desert. Whether you’re fishing on a tranquil urban lake or exploring the vast waters of Lake Pleasant, Phoenix’s bass fishing scene provides a refreshing escape from the arid surroundings.

  1. Los Angeles, California – The City of Angels and Bass

Los Angeles is synonymous with glitz and glamour, but it’s also home to some of California’s finest bass fishing. This sprawling metropolis, surrounded by mountains and ocean, offers anglers a chance to escape the urban hustle and find their slice of angling paradise.

Castaic Lake: Located just a short drive from downtown Los Angeles, Castaic Lake is a bass fishing haven. Known for its trophy-sized largemouth bass, the lake attracts anglers from all over the country. Surrounded by rolling hills and clear blue waters, Castaic Lake feels like a world away from the city, despite its close proximity.

Los Angeles River: The Los Angeles River may not be the first place that comes to mind for fishing, but it has experienced a resurgence in recent years. Efforts to restore and revitalize this urban waterway have resulted in improved water quality and the return of fish species, including bass. Anglers can now enjoy the unique experience of fishing in the heart of Los Angeles, surrounded by bridges and cityscape.

Los Angeles’s urban bass fishing scene is characterized by its variety and the ability to escape the city’s noise and traffic in just a short drive. Whether you’re seeking trophy-sized bass at Castaic Lake or an urban fishing adventure along the Los Angeles River, this city offers a diverse range of experiences for anglers.

Conclusion

In the heart of bustling cities, where the concrete jungle meets the call of the wild, these five American cities stand out as great urban fisheries. From Austin’s live music serenades on Lady Bird Lake to Minneapolis’s tranquil escapades on Lake Minnetonka, Chicago’s skyline reflected in the Chicago River, Phoenix’s desert oasis at Lake Pleasant, and Los Angeles’s glamour juxtaposed with the bass-rich waters of Castaic Lake and the revitalized Los Angeles River, these cities offer anglers a remarkable fusion of urban life and outdoor adventure.

These cities challenge preconceptions, proving that exceptional bass fishing can thrive in the midst of skyscrapers and bustling streets. The unique charm and reasons that make them great urban fisheries vary from their accessible water bodies to their breathtaking natural beauty. Each city offers a fishing experience that reflects its own personality, creating memories that transcend the city limits and remind us that, sometimes, urban life and the great outdoors can coexist in perfect harmony.



October Smith Mountain Lake Fishing Report by Captain Chad Green

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

SMITH MOUNTIAN LAKE FISHING REPORT
By: Captain Chad Green
www.lastcastguideservicesml.com


October is here and the fall fishing is coming quick. Get out on the water when you can and enjoy the sunrises and sunsets. Practice catch and release as much as possible to preserve our great fisheries out there. As always, just make one more Last Cast as it could be the next trophy fish.
Visit Captains Quarters Marina at Hales Ford Bridge for any tackle that you may need and they will fix you up.

Visit https://missilebaits.store/and check out all they have to offer.
Special Thanks to Brian Carter at the https://thebasscast.com/
Check out Smith Mountain Boat and Tackle Penhook for your boating needs https://www.smboats.com

PRACTICE CATCH AND RELEASE ON CITATION SIZE FISH

BIG BASS TOURNAMENT TIPS FOR THE WEEKEND
You will need a 7 plus pound fish to even have an opportunity to win this event coming up. Use lures that target big fish to increase your odds of that type of fish. Large topwater, Jigs, Spinnerbaits, Texas rigged plastics. These larger fish tend be in places you expect to catch them and usually are in shallower water than expected. They can be found around any type of cover this time of year, look in larger pockets and larger tributaries, windy areas, and shade could be a major factor by the weekend. The fall turnover has happened here on smith mountain and the bass will be in a mixture of places. We are about 4-5 degrees cooler than the norm for this time of year. Best of luck to you all.

Largemouth Bass/Smallmouth Bass
The bass will start their transition this month in to their fall patterns. Look for fish to be in many depth ranges and a variety of lures will be needed with changing weather. Target rocky areas, flat points shallow drop offs and deeper docks. Topwater in the mornings can be productive this month and will produce some quality fish. Primary baits in the Fall are usually crawfish imitating lures and will produce the most bites. Shakey Heads, Plastic worms, Drop shots and Jigs will produce fish anywhere from 5 to 15ft in the fall. Topwater and Crankbaits will also be a player in October as well. This is a great opportunity to catch some trophy fish as well. Smallmouth will still be found near humps, shoals and rocky areas using the same lures. Make sure you take care of your fish in the early fall as they can have Barotrauma and may need air released to survive.


Striped Bass
Striper fishing will be good this month and look for them in larger schools as they start to group up for fall. They will travel in smaller schools searching for feeding opportunities. This jigging in the 30-50ft range will produce fish throughout the day as well and larger fish will show up this month as well at times and may be in smaller schools. The lower end of the lake to mid lake is where most of the action will be this month. Some fish have been found on the surface feeding early mornings and late evenings on the lower end of the lake and can be fast and furious action. Look for fish in the mouths of the larger tributaries and large bays this month. Larger topwater plugs can be productive. Swing by Captains Quarters Marina they provide you with a great selection of what you need.


Crappie
Most of the Crappie have been in the 15-25 foot range.



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