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Tuesday, December 16, 2025
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Decoding the Migration: Understanding Bass Movement during the Summer to Fall Transition??

Brian Carter
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Decoding the Migration: Understanding Bass Movement during the Summer to Fall Transition??

The sun’s warm rays cascaded over the serene lake, casting a shimmering reflection on the water’s surface. The air held a crispness that signaled the imminent transition from summer to fall – a pivotal moment for both anglers and nature. The highly anticipated Tournament Bass Fishing event was set to unfold, with the theme resonating deeply: “Decoding the Migration: Understanding Bass Movement during the Summer to Fall Transition.”

? Summer’s Farewell: Prelude to Transformation ?

As the days grew shorter and the temperatures gradually dipped, the bass sensed the changing tides. Like a prelude to a grand symphony, the cooling waters marked the beginning of their seasonal migration. During this stage, the bass lingered in their summer hideouts, savoring the last moments of warmth and the abundance of prey that had thrived in the summer months.

? Convergence of Anglers: Setting the Stage ?

Enthusiastic anglers from every corner gathered at the picturesque lake, their fishing boats forming a colorful mosaic against the tranquil backdrop. Each boat proudly displayed sponsor banners, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere. The objective was not just to catch the largest bass but to unravel the secrets of bass movement during the transition period.

? The Dance Begins: Tracking Bass Migration ?

As the tournament commenced, each angler embarked on a strategic journey, navigating to locations known for their bass activity during this period. These spots were meticulously chosen near underwater structures like drop-offs, submerged vegetation, and rocky formations – natural venues where bass tended to congregate in preparation for the shift.

? Deciphering the Clues: Water Temperature and Structure ?

Expert anglers honed the art of interpreting water temperature fluctuations. Bass, creatures finely attuned to their environment, responded to the changing water temperature with altered behavior. With summer giving way to fall, the cooling water acted as a trigger, propelling the bass into their migratory mode.

? Embrace of Autumn: The Bass Odyssey ?

As autumn emerged in its resplendent glory, the bass felt an innate urge to adapt. The carefree feeding of summer evolved into a calculated approach as they voraciously consumed food to store energy reserves. Beyond sustenance, the bass sensed the call to move to deeper waters, marking a critical stage in their journey.

?‍♂️ Adapting Techniques: Tailoring Approaches ?‍♂️

Anglers adjusted their fishing techniques in harmony with the changing behavior of the bass. The surface lures that dominated summer gave way to methods like drop-shotting, jigging, and crankbaiting. These techniques mirrored the movements of the bass’ prey during their migration, effectively enticing the elusive targets.

? Epic Capture: Pride and Insights ?

Against the backdrop of vibrant autumn foliage mirrored in the calm waters, the anglers engaged in a thrilling battle with the bass. Each cast held the promise of not only winning the championship but also uncovering the intricacies of bass behavior. The atmosphere was electric, a testament to the intricate relationship between humankind and nature, hunter and hunted.

? Triumph of the Champion: Unlocking Nature’s Code ?

As the tournament reached its crescendo, a victor emerged, embodying the spirit of the sport. The champion’s prowess extended beyond angling skills; they deciphered the enigma of bass migration. Through astute observation, adaptability, and an intimate understanding of bass behavior, the champion bridged the gap between summer and fall, unraveling the mysteries beneath the surface.

? Legacy of Wisdom: Passing Down Knowledge ?

The impact of the Tournament Bass Fishing Championship reverberated long after the event. The insights garnered weren’t confined to the victor; they were shared generously among fellow anglers and enthusiasts. A new generation of anglers emerged, armed with profound insights into bass migration patterns and a heightened reverence for the harmonious rhythms of nature.

? Epilogue: Nature’s Unending Symphony ?

With the conclusion of the tournament, the lake settled into the serene cadence of autumn. The bass had embarked on their journey, seeking refuge in the depths to endure the approaching winter. Anglers returned to their homes, carrying memories of an event that transcended competition, delving into the very essence of nature’s secrets. The sun continued to set, casting its warm glow upon the water’s surface, a poignant reminder that the dance beneath was a symphony worthy of admiration.

In this captivating narrative of Tournament Bass Fishing, the intricate ballet of bass migration during the summer-to-fall transition served as a mesmerizing backdrop to the human pursuit of victory and comprehension. Amidst the beauty of the waters and the changing seasons, the angler’s journey resonated harmoniously with the bass’ pilgrimage – an interwoven narrative unfolding beneath the watchful gaze of nature’s evolving canvas. ??



Legislation Passes to Uncork Fishing Potential

Brian Carter
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Legislation Passes to Uncork Fishing Potential
Legislation Passes to Uncork Fishing Potential
Bill becomes law to remove barriers for charitable tournaments, professional events, and competitive high school fishing. 
Forestville, WI (August 30, 2023) – There are some strange laws still in the books. Surely (we hope), there was sound reasoning at the time, but now they simply cause smirks and demonstrate legacy bureaucracy.In Louisiana, for example, it’s illegal to send someone a surprise pizza. That could cost you $500. In South Dakota, don’t fall asleep in a cheese factory or face legal backlash. Can’t give a rat as a present in Montana. Kentuckian women are forbidden to marry the same man four times. And, women in Vermont best not wear fake teeth…without their husband’s approval.On a more serious note, dated state laws can also have unintended consequences. Such was the case in North Dakota. 
Photo courtesy of www.ndtourism.com
A decades old law said that 10% of all entry and participation fees for fishing tournaments and derbies be paid to the government, calling it a “conservation fee.” Seems reasonable, even commendable if the revenue was truly earmarked for improving North Dakota’s fisheries. But without any official reporting, the public never knew. That same law also required that events pay 75% of the gross receipts back to the participants. So, employing a little guerilla math, that leaves 15%. Pretty small rake for the house, especially once you consider that most tournaments and derbies are charitable – put on to raise money for a cause. Ever run an event? There are hard costs. Subtract those from the measly 15% and good luck breaking even. So much for charitable proceeds intended for fire departments and other community non-profit events.     “Originally, the rule was put in place with good intentions,” said NPAA member and advocate for sensible change, Geremy Olson of Washburn, ND. “But we needed to look at the facts and the effects of the rule today.”“Everyone assumed those good intentions meant replacing resources after a tournament, like stocking fish,” Olson continued. “When the North Dakota Game and Fish went and administratively changed the rule during the covid epidemic, people started to realize how negative the current rule had become. In reality, it was a boat ramp tax that led to keeping out of state anglers and tournaments from positively impacting North Dakota communities.”The rule kept major fishing tours like the National Walleye Tour (NWT), Masters Walleye Circuit (MWC) and some of the large bass tournaments from investing in North Dakota. The new law is not only a big win for anyone who enjoys competitive tournament fishing across the state, but also small businesses, communities, charities, and future student anglers in North Dakota.
THE NEW RULEThe new rule is cut and dry. Fishing tournaments and contests will pay a $75 permit fee. That’s it. Event organizers will have 100% control over the money. If a professional tournament wants to payback 90% to the competitors, they can. If a charitable fishing competition wants to split entries 50/50 between participants and the cause, they can. Also included in the new legislation is an additional $5 conservation fee for out-of-state anglers to go into a fishery conservation fund. Olson expects this to raise around $300,000 annually. The fee goes into effect April 1, 2024. According to Olson, who helped author the bill, it was grass roots activism, including individuals and communities that have been negatively affected by the current rule, along with backing from top level recreational fishing advocacy organizations such as the National Professional Anglers Association (NPAA), that culminated in the victory.
NPAA Member Geremy Olson
According to Patrick Neu, NPAA’s president, the organization immediately stepped in to initiate and coordinate a rapid and strong response, which included working with Olson and a committed group of anglers and community leaders to write and introduce the legislation that would stop hurting communities and businesses in North Dakota, while meeting the needs of those who run and participate in fishing tournaments across the state.NPAA represents all who make a living in the sportfishing industry. Membership includes everyone from guides and captains to tournament anglers, fishing department associates/management/shop owners, manufacturing personnel, engine mechanics, professional rep groups, and more. In addition to superior networking opportunities, sportfishing advocacy and promoting entry into the sport, the organization offers a monthly member newsletter, a weekly industry NewsBLAST, and access to significant discounts on gear and services provided by many of its nearly 80 supporting partners.

Weather and Water: How Changing Conditions Impact Bass Behavior in Tournament Fishing ??️?

Brian Carter
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Weather and Water: How Changing Conditions Impact Bass Behavior in Tournament Fishing ??️?

Tournament fishing, a world where skill meets strategy, demands a profound understanding of the intricate dance between weather, water conditions, and the elusive bass. Within this high-stakes arena, where every cast counts, comprehending the effects of changing conditions on bass behavior becomes the ultimate game-changer. Join us in this immersive narrative as we delve into the depths of this dynamic relationship, armed with insights that could tip the scales in your favor. ?

Prologue: The Serene Waters ?️

Imagine a tranquil morning by the water’s edge – the gentle ripples of the lake’s surface, the symphony of birds welcoming the dawn, and the promise of an angler’s triumph hanging in the air. This picturesque scene sets the stage for a tale woven around the intricate interplay between weather, water, and the elusive bass.

Chapter 1: Prelude to the Dance ?

Before we embark on this journey, let’s acquaint ourselves with the players – the weather and the bass. The latter, a cold-blooded creature, its disposition swayed by external elements, and the former, a mercurial force that shifts its mood with every passing front.

Chapter 2: The Ballet of Temperature ?️❄️

Warm Embrace: As the sun’s gentle warmth bathes the water, the bass awakens from its slumber. Rising temperatures trigger increased metabolism, pushing the bass to venture into shallower waters, where baitfish frolic.

Cold Front Waltz: Abrupt changes, like the flick of a switch, lead to cold fronts. The bass, accustomed to the comfort of warmer waters, retreat to deeper realms, tempering their activity until equilibrium is restored.

Chapter 3: The Barometric Pas de Deux ?

High-Pressure Lull: High-pressure systems exert a lulling effect on the bass. Their movements become deliberate, cautious. The angler adjusts, offering subtler presentations to entice a cautious bite.

Low-Pressure Crescendo: A drop in barometric pressure heralds change – the bass’s heart quickens, sensing the impending storm. The angler seizes the opportunity, employing techniques that exploit the bass’s heightened appetite.

Chapter 4: Winds of Change ??

Whispers of the Wind: A gentle breeze kisses the water’s surface, crafting patterns that dance in harmony. The bass interprets this choreography as an invitation to feast. The angler mirrors the wind’s playfulness, casting deftly to capitalize on this spectacle.

Veiled Skies, Bold Bass: Clouds gather, shielding the water from the sun’s gaze. Emboldened by this protective veil, the bass ventures into shallower waters, shedding inhibitions. The angler joins this audacious march, wielding lures that mimic the newfound bravery.

Chapter 5: Aquatic Symphony of Clarity ??

Crystal Clear Elegance: In the crystalline embrace of clear water, sight reigns supreme. The bass scrutinizes its prey, demanding precise imitations. The angler, a master of mimicry, selects lures that mirror the intricacies of nature.

Murky Mirage: Murky waters cloak the bass in a shroud of mystery. Here, vibrations and movements reign supreme. The angler makes music with lures that create ripples of curiosity, enticing the bass to explore.

Chapter 6: The Current’s Waltz ?➡️

Current’s Caress: The bass leans against the currents, a patient sentinel. As the water delivers morsels of sustenance, it pounces. The angler, too, harnesses the current’s power, manipulating lures to mimic the movements of helpless prey.

Transition Tango: At the confluence of currents, a dance of abundance ensues. The bass, aware of this banquet, lies in wait. The angler orchestrates a symphony of bait, exploiting this dynamic buffet.

Chapter 7: The Breath of Life ?❗

Oxygen Oasis: Amidst aquatic flora and bubbling streams, oxygen is plentiful. The bass seeks solace in these pockets of vitality. The angler reads the water’s breath, casting lines where life flourishes.

Epilogue: A Harmonious Finale ?

And so, the saga unfolds – a story of a delicate balance between nature’s whims and an angler’s prowess. In the world of tournament fishing, where trophies are won by the finest margins, understanding the nuances of weather, water, and bass behavior is the angler’s true arsenal. Armed with this knowledge, you step onto the boat not as an observer but as a conductor, orchestrating the ballet of conditions to summon the bass’s entrancing dance.

As the sun sets on this narrative, remember that the next time you cast your line, you’re not merely casting into water – you’re casting into a symphony where every ripple, every gust, and every nuance plays a role in the grand performance. ??

Recommended Baits for Changing Conditions:

  • Warm Water: Try crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and topwater lures to capitalize on the bass’s increased activity.
  • Cold Fronts: Switch to jigs, soft plastics, or slow-moving lures to tempt cautious bass during temperature drops.
  • High Pressure: Opt for finesse baits like drop shots or Ned rigs for a subtle presentation that matches the mood.
  • Low Pressure: Experiment with aggressive lures such as lipless crankbaits or swimbaits to trigger bites during pressure drops.
  • Wind and Cloud Cover: Embrace the chaos with chatterbaits, buzzbaits, or jerkbaits that create commotion.
  • Clear Water: Choose natural-colored soft plastics, jerkbaits, or jigs to fool bass reliant on their vision.
  • Murky Water: Go for vibrating jigs, large profiled crankbaits, or noisy topwater lures to catch the attention of bass relying on vibrations.
  • Currents: Opt for lures that mimic injured or struggling baitfish, like paddle-tail swimbaits or fluke-style soft plastics.
  • Transition Zones: Use versatile lures like crankbaits, swim jigs, or square-bill crankbaits to cover various depths and draw strikes.
  • Oxygen-Rich Areas: Target bass-holding structures with jigs, Texas-rigged worms, or creature baits to trigger strikes in these vital zones.

With these recommended baits in your tackle box, you’re armed and ready to adapt to any condition and turn the ever-changing bass behavior to your advantage. ??️?



Steve Crist & Dennis Stump Win Leesville Lake Open Tourney

Brian Carter
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Steve Crist & Dennis Stump Win Leesville Lake Open Tourney

Eleven teams come out to fish the Leesville Lake Tourney series Sunday. Congratulation to Steve & Dennis on another win. The men are on a tare will the streak continue?

Washing Your Watercraft Matters

Brian Carter
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Washing Your Watercraft Matters
Washing Your Watercraft Matters
Any soap can wash your boat, but using the right procedure helps some do it better than others.
Lafayette, LA (August 29, 2023) – “What should I use to wash my boat?” is a question that comes up at dockside now and again. It sounds simple enough; after all any soap is likely to clean your hull. Do a little research, however, and you’ll find that some soaps simply clean better than others.“There are reasons for that,” says Stewart Delcambre, founder of SRD20 boat washes and protectants, a new line of boat care products that’s rippling through the boating community and turning heads with its ability to out-perform the competition over the long haul. “The starting question for washing boats really should be “What’s the best way to get the job done?”
Indeed, there actually is a science to the task and, done properly using a smart procedure and a cutting-edge formula like SRD20’s Pink Boat Soap, it needn’t be hard work.”Delcambre suggests choosing a gentle PH-Neutral soap designed specifically for boats and watercraft. These soaps are formulated to clean without damaging the finish. In addition, they can contain waxes or other protective coatings that can help keep the boat looking new long after the job is done. Start by rinsing your watercraft thoroughly to help remove the loose pieces of debris and grime before trying to tackle the more ingrained dirt on the boat’s surface.Next, apply a premium product boat wash like SRD20 Pink Soap by hand using a bucket and brush or, better yet, with a foam cannon propelled by a hose or power washer. The latter options work up an especially rich blanket of foamy soap that gets deep into pockets, crevices and creases that are hard to fully penetrate with hand-washing alone while maintaining its rich thickness a little longer to extend soak time so the soap can really get under the dirt and lift it out.“It’s important to allow that soapy foam to dwell on your hull and cleaning surfaces for a few minutes, before washing it off from the top down,” advises Delcambre. “Given a few minutes’ time, superior boat soaps will provide plenty of salt spray-, fish blood- and dirt-removing properties with long lasting sudsing action. Once the soap has had several minutes to get to work, wash your watercraft from the top down with a wet wash mitt, mop, or soft brush to agitate and break up more stubborn grime. Dunk into your wash bucket frequently, ensuring to get any contaminants off the mitt, mop, or soft brush.”
It’s also important to immediately rinse your vessel thoroughly with water to remove any remaining loose dirt, grime, and filth, and to wipe everything dry with a clean, soft microfiber towel. Boat soap is best used on a cool surface out of direct sunlight. If that’s not an option, work on smaller areas and rinse often. To avoid streaking and water spots, don’t let wash dry on the surface.As for what makes for a superior boat soap, a low- or neutral PH balance is vital to prevent stripping away any wax or protective coating as you wash your way clean. Choosing a formula that tackles multiple surfaces including plastic, fiberglass, gel coat, metal, aluminum, glass, paint, vinyl or even teak is an added time-saver, and using an advanced formula soap that incorporates nano-technology to break down dirt and grime similar to the leading soaps used in the auto-industry today ensures maximum cleaning power.“You’ll also want to choose a soap that’s “eco-friendly,” adds Delcambre. “SRD20 Pink Boat Soap checks all the required boxes. It cleans away dirt, oil, grease, bugs, spider droppings, fish slime and more. It’s easy to apply, cost effective, pH balanced, gentle on the environment, and it doesn’t etch, strip, or remove previously applied wax or surface protection. Containing no wax itself, it can be used to clean surfaces that have been covered with just about any manufacturer’s boat wax or protective product.”
There’s no doubt that SRD20’s Pink Soap for Boats will get the job done if you use the procedure described above, leaving behind a clean, long-lasting shine that assures less boat cleaning in the future. Follow-up with an application SRD20 Graphene Ceramic Spray Coating and Protectant, SRD20 Waterless Wash & Wax, and/or SRD20 Vinyl Protectant and you’ll be even more impressed.All SRD20 products are made in the USA and are available at SRD20.com and select retail locations. Some formulas are also available on Amazon.com.

Cumming’s Marks Rides Early Bite to Win Two-Day Phoenix Bass Fishing League Super Tournament on Lake Lanier

Brian Carter
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Cumming’s Marks Rides Early Bite to Win Two-Day Phoenix Bass Fishing League Super Tournament on Lake Lanier
Boater Paul Marks of Cumming, Georgia and Strike-King co-angler Chris Pfrogner of Dawsonville, Georgia.
Dawsonville’s Pfrogner Tops Strike King Co-Angler Division

GAINESVILLE, Ga. (Aug. 28, 2023) – Boater Paul Marks of Cumming, Georgia, caught six bass weighing 25 pounds, 7 ounces, to win the two-day MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine on Lake Lanier Presented by Harrison Oil Company in Gainesville, Georgia. The tournament, which featured a three-bass daily limit, was the fifth and final regular-season event for the Bass Fishing League Bulldog Division Presented by Mystik Lubricants. Marks earned $13,871 for his victory, including the lucrative $7,000 Phoenix MLF contingency bonus.

After Marks ended his first day of competition in second place, he said Day 2 didn’t start off like he had hoped.

“I had a flat tire on my truck Sunday morning, and then I got pulled over on the way to the ramp,” Marks said. “I didn’t get a ticket, though. And then I ran all the way down the lake to the south end, and then when I left my first spot, I slung an ear on my prop. So, I had to change the prop out. After I got all of that out of the way, I caught all my fish within 30 minutes.”

Marks said the early bite was key for him, and on both days he caught his large fish early. When the big bite turned off for him mid-morning, he still caught fish, but he was unable to cull the rest of the day.

Marks said he targeted bass in 20 to 50 feet of water near Browns Bridge on a Damiki rig with a Picasso Speed Drop Jig Head with a small minnow-imitating plastic bait.

“Sunday, I caught a 5-pounder right after I caught a 4½-pounder and a 3½-pounder, and I kind of thought it was over at that point,” Marks said. “I fished my heart out the rest of the day.”

The top 10 boaters finished the tournament in:1st:          Paul Marks, Cumming, Ga., six bass, 25-7, $13,871 includes $7,000 Phoenix MLF Contingency Bonus)
2nd:        Mikey Bart, Flowery Branch, Ga., six bass, 23-15, $3,436
3rd:        Ty Overmyer, Dawsonville, Ga., six bass, 23-12, $2,290
4th:         Emil Wagner, Marietta, Ga., six bass, 23-11, $1,903
5th:         Dalton Tankersley, Copperhill, Tenn., six bass, 23-2, $1,374
6th:         Roger Vinson, Oakwood, Ga., six bass, 22-13, $1,260
7th:         Caz Anderson, Haysville, N.C., six bass, 21-12, $1,145
8th:         Weston Parker, Mansfield, Ga., six bass, 21-5, $1,031
9th:         Matthew O’Connell, Brooks, Ga., six bass, 21-3, $1,166
10th:      Wesley Griner, Cumming, Ga., six bass, 21-2, $802Complete results can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.

Kevin Black of Cumming, Georgia, had a bass that weighed 5 pounds, 6 ounces that was the heaviest of the event in the Boater Division and earned the Berkley Big Bass Boater award of $1,012.



Chris Pfrogner of Dawsonville, Georgia, won the Strike King Co-angler Division and $3,436 Sunday after catching a two-day total of six bass weighing 17 pounds, 12 ounces.

The top 10 Strike King co-anglers were: 1st:          Chris Pfrogner, Dawsonville, Ga., six bass, 17-12, $3,436
2nd:        Zachary Archer, Cumming, Ga., five bass, 14-5, $1,718
3rd:        Tyler Mangum, Canton, Ga., five bass, 13-14, $1,145
4th:         Scott Sayasing, Grantville, Ga., five bass, 13-13, $1,308
5th:         Cliff Humphreys, Candler, N.C., five bass, 13-11, $687
6th:         Harold Grizzle, Gainesville, Ga., six bass, 13-8, $630
7th:         Demetrice Collins, Thomson, Ga., four bass, 11-11, $573
8th:         Greg Glouse, Liberty, S,C., four bass, 11-6, $715
9th:         Jake Staley, Cumming, Ga., four bass, 11-0, $458
10th:      Ben Brisbois, Gainesville, Ga., five bass, 10-14, $401Scott Sayasing of Grantville, Georgia, caught the largest bass in the Strike King Co-angler Division, a fish weighing in at 5 pounds, 11 ounces. The catch earned him the Berkley Big Bass Co-angler award of $506.

With the regular season now complete, boater Matthew O’Connell of Brooks, Georgia, won the 2023 Bass Fishing League Bulldog Division Presented by Mystik Lubricants Boater Angler of the Year (AOY) race with a five-event total of 1,305 points to earn the $1,000 boater AOY award. Tyler Mangum of Canton, Georgia, won the 2023 Strike King Co-Angler Bulldog Division Presented by Mystik Lubricants AOY race with 1,296 points and earned the $500 Strike King Co-angler of the Year award.

Now, the top 45 boaters and co-anglers in the division based on point standings, along with the five winners of each qualifying event, will advance to compete in the Oct. 19-21 Bass Fishing League Regional Championship on Lake Norman in Huntersville, North Carolina. Boaters will fish for a top award of $60,000, including a new Phoenix 819 Pro with a 200-horsepower Mercury 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 outboard.

The 2023 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.

The top 45 boaters and Strike King co-anglers plus tournament winners from each Phoenix Bass Fishing League division will also earn priority entry into the MLF Toyota Series, the pathway to the MLF Invitationals and ultimately the MLF Bass Pro Tour.

Proud sponsors of the 2023 MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine include: 13 Fishing, Abu Garcia, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, Black Rifle Coffee, E3, Epic Baits, Favorite Fishing, General Tire, Grundéns, Gill, Lew’s, Lowrance, Mercury, Mossy Oak, Mystik Lubricants, Onyx, Phoenix, Polaris, Power-Pole, Strike King, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, 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.

Lufkin’s Heck Wins Two-Day Phoenix Bass Fishing League Super Tournament on Sam Rayburn Reservoir

Brian Carter
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Lufkin’s Heck Wins Two-Day Phoenix Bass Fishing League Super Tournament on Sam Rayburn Reservoir
Boater Hayden Heck of Lufkin, Texas and Strike-King co-angler Jacob Smith of McKinney, Texas.
McKinney’s Smith Claims Strike King Co-Angler Division

BROOKELAND, Texas (Aug. 28, 2023) – Boater Hayden Heck of Lufkin, Texas, caught six bass weighing 36 pounds, 4 ounces, to win the two-day MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine on Sam Rayburn Reservoir in Brookeland, Texas. The tournament, which was fished with a three-bass daily limit, was the fifth and final regular-season event for the Bass Fishing League Cowboy Division. Heck earned $14,704 for his victory, including the lucrative $7,000 Phoenix MLF contingency bonus.

“We started off each day looking for fish and fishing brushpiles,” Heck said. “We caught some on a big worm and a jig, and others came on a Double Z Custom Lures Swayback Swimmer, which is a small 4-inch swimbait we were using for suspended fish just hanging around.

“We spent a lot of time just scoping around trying to pick off single fish,” Heck added. “We were looking in 20 to 25 feet of water since the surface temperature is ridiculous right now.”

Heck said his fishing was better Saturday – he caught more fish and they bit better – while Sunday was tougher. Heck said he didn’t catch any quality fish after 10 a.m. He said he could see good fish, but they kept their mouths shut.

“It was a good tournament, and I can’t complain,” Heck said. “I had 15 pounds or so by mid-morning Sunday, and I really thought it would take a total weight of 30 to 32 pounds to win. I got a little lucky and got a few bigger fish to bring that weight up.

“This is the second BFL I’ve ever fished, and it feels really good to win one of the two-day ones,” Heck added. “I fished my first one in January. I’ve been out of town for almost two months, but I got back and had a little time to look around, saw some good fish, and decided to jump in the tournament. So, this is awesome.”

The top 10 boaters finished the tournament in:1st:          Hayden Heck, Lufkin, Texas, six bass, 36-4, $14,704 (includes $7,000 Phoenix MLF5 Contingency Bonus)
2nd:        Zane Parker, Kingwood, Texas, six bass, 31-0, $3,352
3rd:        Derek Mundy, Broaddus, Texas, six bass, 28-2, $2,233
4th:         Wesley Baxley, Cypress, Texas, six bass, 26-1, $1,564
5th:         Hank Harrison, Nacogdoches, Texas, six bass, 23-2, $1,341
6th:         Tommy Loving, Cypress, Texas, six bass, 22-0, $1,229
7th:         Thomas McMillan, Choudrant, La., six bass, 21-7, $1,117
8th:         Kevin Lasyone, Dry Prong, La., six bass, 20-14, $1,006
9th:         John Ellender, Lake Charles, La., six bass, 20-5, $894
10th:      Colby Bryant, Houston, Texas, six bass, 20-5, $782Complete results can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.

Tater Reynolds of Florien, Louisiana, had a bass that weighed 8 pounds, 9 ounces that was the heaviest of the event in the Boater Division and earned the Berkley Big Bass Boater award of $975.



Jacob Smith of McKinney, Texas, won the Strike King Co-angler Division and $3,839 Sunday after catching a two-day total of six bass weighing 23 pounds, 13 ounces.

The top 10 Strike King co-anglers were: 1st:          Jacob Smith, McKinney, Texas, six bass, 23-13, $3,839
2nd:        Gary Lachance, Austin, Texas, five bass, 17-12, $1,676
3rd:        Jesse Rawls, Lorena, Texas, six bass, 17-5, $1,117
4th:         Michael Mooney, Diana, Texas, six bass, 16-13, $782
5th:         William Hadraba, Willow Springs, Ill., six bass, 16-1, $670
6th:         Stephen Crumpler II, Bloomburg, Texas, six bass, 15-2, $615
7th:         Zach Moran, Waco, Texas, six bass, 15-0, $559
8th:         David Laine, Bryan, Texas, five bass, 14-3, $503
9th:         Nick Stanislaus, Porter, Texas, six bass, 13-15, $647
10th:      Ben Faucheaux, Natchitoches, La., six bass, 13-14, $391Smith also caught the largest bass in the Strike King Co-angler Division, a fish weighing in at 8 pounds, 6 ounces. The catch earned him the Berkley Big Bass Co-angler award of $487.

With the regular season now complete, boater Tater Reynolds of Florien, Louisiana, won the 2023 Bass Fishing League Cowboy Division Boater Angler of the Year (AOY) race with a five-event total of 1,324 points to earn the $1,000 boater AOY award. J.J. Matzke of League City, Texas, won the 2023 Strike King Co-Angler Cowboy Division AOY race with 1,320 points and earned the $500 Strike King Co-angler of the Year award.

Now, the top 45 boaters and co-anglers in the division based on point standings, along with the five winners of each qualifying event, will advance to compete in the Oct. 5-7 Bass Fishing League Regional Championship on Lake Eufaula in Eufaula, Oklahoma. Boaters will fish for a top award of $60,000, including a new Phoenix 819 Pro with a 200-horsepower Mercury 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 outboard.

The 2023 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.

The top 45 boaters and Strike King co-anglers plus tournament winners from each Phoenix Bass Fishing League division will also earn priority entry into the MLF Toyota Series, the pathway to the MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit and ultimately the MLF Bass Pro Tour.

Proud sponsors of the 2023 MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine include: 13 Fishing, Abu Garcia, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, Black Rifle Coffee, E3, Epic Baits, Favorite Fishing, General Tire, Grundéns, Gill, Lew’s, Lowrance, Mercury, Mossy Oak, Mystik Lubricants, Onyx, Phoenix, Polaris, Power-Pole, Strike King, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, 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.

Summer to Fall Transition: Understanding the Changing Bass Patterns for Tournament Success

Brian Carter
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Summer to Fall Transition: Understanding the Changing Bass Patterns for Tournament Success

?☀️???

The air was warm and filled with the sounds of laughter and splashing water as summer reached its peak. Anglers from all around had gathered at Clearwater Lake for the annual bass fishing tournament, eager to showcase their skills and compete for the grand prize. The sun shone brightly overhead, casting dancing reflections on the calm water’s surface.

Summer Splendor (Early Stage):

? The sun’s intensity during summer influenced the bass behavior, making them seek shade and cooler waters. ? Bass were predominantly found near underwater structures like submerged rocks, fallen trees, and weed beds. ? Topwater lures like poppers and buzzbaits were effective during early mornings and late evenings when the water was cooler. ? Anglers targeted shallower depths, where bass were more active and aggressive in pursuing their prey. ? The key was to mimic the movements of distressed prey to trigger the bass to strike.

Among the competitors was Mark, a seasoned angler known for his deep understanding of bass behavior. Mark had been observing the signs of change as summer gradually transitioned to fall.

Signs of Change (Transition Phase):

? The days grew shorter, causing the water temperatures to drop gradually. ? Bass started to move away from the shallows as the cooling water made them less active. ? Underwater vegetation began to thin out, altering the bass’ preferred hiding spots and hunting grounds. ? Bass metabolism slowed down, making them less likely to chase fast-moving lures. ? Anglers needed to adjust their techniques and equipment to match the changing conditions.

As September arrived, the first hints of fall were in the air. Mark knew that the tournament was about to become more challenging, requiring a shift in his approach.

Adapting Strategies (Mid Transition):

? Transition areas, where shallow waters met deeper regions, became bass hotspots. ? Crankbaits and spinnerbaits became more effective as they allowed anglers to cover larger areas and reach varying depths. ? Bass started following schools of baitfish, so using lures that imitated their movement patterns was crucial. ? Mark focused on precision casting and slow retrievals to match the bass’ reduced activity level. ? Patience became a virtue as anglers might need to make repeated casts to entice a strike.

Amidst the changing landscape of the lake, the tournament’s final day arrived. The once-packed shorelines were now dotted with boats strategically positioned around the transition zones.

Embracing the Shift (Late Transition):

? Leaves started changing colors, and the air carried a crispness that signified the approaching fall. ? Bass began to school up tightly, making it possible to catch multiple fish in a single area. ? Drop-shot rigs and finesse worms gained popularity as they offered a subtle presentation that appealed to sluggish bass. ? Finding the right depth became crucial, as bass positioned themselves based on water temperature and available prey. ? Tournament success hinged on the angler’s ability to adapt rapidly to the changing conditions.

As Mark surveyed the lake, he noticed a gathering of boats near a submerged ridge where the shallow waters met a deeper channel. He recognized this as a prime transition area and decided to anchor his boat there.

Triumphant Adaptation (Tournament Day):

? Mark carefully selected a drop-shot rig with a finesse worm, aware that the slow presentation would be effective. ? He cast his line towards the transition point and allowed the rig to sink to the desired depth. ? With a gentle twitch of his rod, Mark imparted subtle movement to the worm, mimicking the behavior of natural prey. ? After a tense wait, he felt a slight nibble on the line, followed by a stronger tug. ? Mark set the hook and skillfully reeled in a plump bass, securing his first catch of the day.

The tournament’s conclusion was drawing near, and Mark’s adaptability had paid off. He continued to work the transition area, methodically adjusting his technique to match the changing conditions. As the sun began to set, he found himself with an impressive collection of bass in his livewell.

???

In the end, Mark’s understanding of the summer-to-fall transition and his ability to adjust his strategies led him to victory in the tournament. The changing patterns of the bass had challenged him to think outside the box and adapt his approach accordingly. As he held the winner’s trophy, Mark knew that his success was not just a triumph of skill, but a testament to the profound connection between angler and nature, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence in the world of bass fishing.

?☀️???



Ohio’s Malas Claims Victory at Two-Day Phoenix Bass Fishing League Super Tournament on the Ohio River at Tanners Creek

Brian Carter
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0
Ohio’s Malas Claims Victory at Two-Day Phoenix Bass Fishing League Super Tournament on the Ohio River at Tanners Creek
Boater Chris Malas of Cincinnati, Ohio and Strike-King co-angler Derek Jackson of New Albany, Indiana.
New Albany’s Jackson Wins Strike King Co-Angler Division

LAWRENCEBURG, Ind. (Aug. 28, 2023) – Boater Chris Malas of Cincinnati, Ohio, caught nine bass weighing 14 pounds, 8 ounces, to win the two-day MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine on the Ohio River at Tanner’s Creek in Lawrenceburg, Indiana. The tournament was the fifth and final regular-season event for the Bass Fishing League Hoosier Division. Malas earned $5,997 for his victory.

“On Day 1 I made a long run to fish the main river,” Malas said. “I was on some smallmouth, and I hammered them. I caught 14 keepers and culled a bunch of times. I caught them mainly on topwaters and dragging finesse stuff around – a Ned rig.”

Malas said the second day of competition was a little bit different than the first, because when he made his run to his spot, he approached a swimming competition that was being held and authorities had the waters blocked for the safety of the swimming event. Malas said he fished around Cincinnati until 9:15 a.m., and managed to catch a nice spotted bass, before the sheriff allowed boats to proceed.

Malas said the river had risen a foot and his smallmouth were nowhere to be found when he finally arrived at his Day 1 spot, but he did manage to figure out a spotted bass pattern to add three more keepers. Malas said he has a habit of underestimating his total weight and didn’t even think he had a chance at posting a win.

“I was in the weigh-in line and looking at (Chris) Martinkovic in front of me thinking, ‘Well, he’s got me,’” Malas said. “I weighed in and looked at the scale and was surprised. One of my spots was way bigger than I thought it was. It was like a 3-pounder. I walked off the stage and the last guy to weigh in said, ‘Good job, dude. You just won it.’ And I was like, ‘Holy crap!’ So, that was pretty cool.

“It feels insane to win,” Malas continued. “The money and the trophy are cool, but to beat that caliber of guys who fish there is better than anything because those guys are good.”

The top 10 boaters finished the tournament in:

                 1st:          Chris Malas, Cincinnati, Ohio, nine bass, 14-8, $5,997     2nd:        Mike Quinlin, Mooresville, Ind., 10 bass, 14-5, $4,379 (includes $500 Phoenix MLF contingency bonus)                  3rd:        David Spivey, Hamilton, Ohio, nine bass, 13-13, $1,997
                  4th:         Chris Martinkovic, Hamilton, Ohio, 10 bass, 13-9, $1,599
                  5th:         Tony Collins, Dayton, Ohio, 10 bass, 12-13, $1,199
                  6th:         Dale Teaney, Williamsburg, Ohio, 10 bass, 12-11, $1,100
                  7th:         Jamie Cunnagin, New Lebanon, Ohio, seven bass, 12-6, $1,000
                  8th:         John Viox, Hebron, Ky., nine bass, 12-6, $900
                  9th:         John Melton, Corydon, Ind., eight bass, 11-13, $800
                  10th:      Travis Spivey, Union, Ky., nine bass, 11-10, $700

Complete results can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.

Jason Wood of Connersville, Indiana, had a bass that weighed 4 pounds, 14 ounces that was the heaviest of the event in the Boater Division and earned the Berkley Big Bass Boater award of $810.



Derek Jackson of New Albany, Indiana, won the Strike King Co-angler Division and $2,999 Sunday after catching a two-day total of eight bass weighing 10 pounds, 5 ounces.

The top 10 Strike King co-anglers were:

                  1st:          Derek Jackson, New Albany, Ind., eight bass, 10-5, $2,999
                  2nd:        Ryan Sykes, Fairfield, Ohio, six bass, 8-11, $1,899
                  3rd:        John Thomas, Quincy, Ind., seven bass, 8-0, $996
                  4th:         Joe Gorham, Indianapolis, Ind., six bass, 7-15, $700
                  5th:         Greg Roberts, Columbus, Ind., four bass, 7-12, $600
                  6th:         Branden Hardesty, Nineveh, Ind., six bass, 7-8, $550
                  7th:         Rod Yoder, West Lafayette, Ind., five bass, 7-7, $500
                  8th:         Brian Liming, Dillsboro, Ind., five bass, 6-14, $450
                  9th:         Fred Fox, Batavia, Ohio, five bass, 6-10, $400
                  10th:      Mark Bouchie, Evansville, Ind., five bass, 6-9, $350

Jeremy Aslinger of Richmond, Indiana, caught the largest bass in the Strike King Co-angler Division, a fish weighing in at 3 pounds, 9 ounces. The catch earned him the Berkley Big Bass Co-angler award of $405.

With the regular season now complete, boater Travis Spivey of Union, Kentucky, won the 2023 Bass Fishing League Hoosier Division Boater Angler of the Year (AOY) race with a five-event total of 1,325 points to earn the $1,000 boater AOY award. Joe Gorham of Indianapolis, Indiana, won the 2023 Strike King Co-Angler Hoosier Division AOY race with 1,301 points and earned the $500 Strike King Co-angler of the Year award.

Now, the top 45 boaters and co-anglers in the division based on point standings, along with the five winners of each qualifying event, will advance to compete in the Oct. 19-21 Bass Fishing League Regional Championship on Lake of the Ozarks in Osage Beach, Missouri. Boaters will fish for a top award of $60,000, including a new Phoenix 819 Pro with a 200-horsepower Mercury 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 outboard.

The 2023 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.

The top 45 boaters and Strike King co-anglers plus tournament winners from each Phoenix Bass Fishing League division will also earn priority entry into the MLF Toyota Series, the pathway to the MLF Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit and ultimately the MLF Bass Pro Tour.

Proud sponsors of the 2023 MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine include: 13 Fishing, Abu Garcia, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, Black Rifle Coffee, E3, Epic Baits, Favorite Fishing, General Tire, Grundéns, Gill, Lew’s, Lowrance, Mercury, Mossy Oak, Mystik Lubricants, Onyx, Phoenix, Polaris, Power-Pole, Strike King, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, 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.

Pinckney’s Sitko Posts Fifth Career Win at Phoenix Bass Fishing League Event at Detroit River

Brian Carter
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0
Pinckney’s Sitko Posts Fifth Career Win at Phoenix Bass Fishing League Event at Detroit River
Boater Michael Sitko of Pinckney, Michigan and Strike-King co-angler Terry Bucciarelli of Ypsilanti, Michigan.
Ypsilanti’s Bucciarelli Tops Strike King Co-Angler Division

TRENTON, Mich. (Aug. 28, 2023) – Boater Michael Sitko of Pinckney, Michigan, caught a five-bass limit weighing 24 pounds, 15 ounces, Saturday to win the MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League (BFL) Presented by T-H Marine on the Detroit River . The tournament was the fourth event of the season for the BFL Michigan Division. Sitko earned $12,146, including the lucrative $7,000 Phoenix MLF Contingency Bonus, for his victory.

Sitko now has five career Major League Fishing wins on the Detroit River, including four BFL victories and one Toyota Series title.

“I can’t explain how good it feels to get this win, because the guys competing in this are so good,” said Sitko, who made a run to fish Lake Erie’s isolated rock humps in 18 to 22 feet of water. “You have guys that guide out here daily, and they’re just so good. This never gets old, and I can’t wait to win the next one.”

Sitko said he caught around 10 keepers during the course of the day on a drop-shot rig tipped with a tube. The majority of his fish came late in the morning, and he didn’t cull a fish after that.

“I did have one that jumped off later in the day that I thought would have helped, but I ended up not needing it,” Sitko said. “I truly thought that fish was going to cost me.

“There’s never a point in this division when you think you’re going to win,” Sitko added. “I’ve had tournaments where I’ve had really big bags and not won because you get 26-pound bags from Erie a lot. This group of anglers is just so good.”

The top 10 boaters finished the tournament:

                1st:          Michael Sitko, Pinckney, Mich., five bass, 24-15, $12,146 (includes $7,000 Phoenix MLF Contingency Bonus)
                  2nd:        Pat Upthagrove, Monroe, Mich., five bass, 23-3, $2,793
                  3rd:        Nolan Mandel, Harrison Township, Mich., five bass, 22-7, $1,309
                  4th:         Scott Cooke, Marengo, Ohio, five bass, 21-6, $916
                  5th:         Aaron Jagdfeld, Rochester, Mich., five bass, 21-4, $785
                  6th:         Jared Rhode, Port Clinton, Ohio, five bass, 21-0, $720
                  7th:         Jeremy Reese, Powell, Ohio, five bass, 20-13, $654
                  8th:         Wilson Burton, Findlay, Ohio, five bass, 20-9, $589
                  9th:         Noah Stauffer, Gowen, Mich., five bass, 20-8, $523
                  10th:      Angel Rosario, Kalamazoo, Mich., five bass, 19-12, $458

Complete results can be found at MajorLeagueFishing.com.

Pat Upthagrove of Monroe, Michigan, caught a bass that weighed 6 pounds, 4 ounces, and earned the Berkley Big Bass Boater award of $530.



Terry Bucciarelli of Ypsilanti, Michigan, won the Strike King co-angler division and $2,778 Saturday, after bringing five bass to the scale that totaled 21 pounds, 6 ounces.

The top 10 Strike King co-anglers finished:

                  1st:          Terry Bucciarelli, Ypsilanti, Mich., five bass, 21-6, $2,778
                  2nd:        Joe Nega, Chicago, Ill., five bass, 19-15, $1,181
                  3rd:        Bill Lass, Caledonia, Mich., five bass, 19-13, $655
                  4th:         Tyler Land, Coatsville, Ind., five bass, 19-0, $458
                  5th:         Cory Yoder, Goshen, Ind., five bass, 18-9, $393
                  6th:         Mike Eldridge, Blairsville, Penn., five bass, 18-2, $360
                  7th:         Keishaun Clemons, Richmond, Ind., five bass, 17-13, $310
                  7th:         Joe Westphal, Lapeer, Mich., five bass, 17-13, $310
                  9th:         Emmanuel Schwartz, Colon, Mich., five bass, 17-12, $245
                  9th:         Ahsten Lynch, Waynesville, Ohio, five bass, 17-12, $245

Bucciarelli also earned the Berkley Big Bass co-angler award of $265, catching a bass that weighed in at 5 pounds, 6 ounces – the largest co-angler catch of the day.

After four events, Patrick Goodman of Sturgis, Michigan, leads the BFL Michigan Division Boater Angler of the Year (AOY) race with 972 points, while Gavin Weted of Adrian, Michigan, leads the Strike King Co-Angler Division AOY race with 937 points.

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. 12-14 BFL Regional tournament on Dale Hollow Lake in Byrdstown, Tennessee. Boaters will fish for a top award of $60,000, including a new Phoenix 819 Pro with a 200-horsepower Mercury 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 outboard.

The 2023 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 2023 MLF Phoenix Bass Fishing League Presented by T-H Marine include: 13 Fishing, Abu Garcia, B&W Trailer Hitches, Berkley, Black Rifle Coffee, E3, Epic Baits, Favorite Fishing, General Tire, Grundéns, Gill, Lew’s, Lowrance, Mercury, Mossy Oak, Mystik Lubricants, Onyx, Phoenix, Polaris, Power-Pole, Strike King, Tackle Warehouse, T-H Marine, Toyota, 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.
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