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From Local Waters to Global Triumph: The Inspiring Journey of Kevin VanDam, the Legendary “KVD” of Professional Bass Fishing

Brian Carter
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From Local Waters to Global Triumph: The Inspiring Journey of Kevin VanDam, the Legendary “KVD” of Professional Bass Fishing

Kevin VanDam, affectionately known as “KVD,” is an icon in the realm of professional bass fishing. With an illustrious career spanning decades, he has earned the reputation of being one of the most successful and influential anglers in the history of the sport. Born on October 14, 1967, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Kevin’s journey to becoming an elite angler is a testament to his unwavering determination, exceptional skills, and love for the art of fishing.

Early Years and Passion for Fishing:

Growing up in Michigan, Kevin VanDam was captivated by the allure of the waters at an early age. As a child, he spent countless hours fishing in local lakes and rivers with his father and older brother. These formative experiences instilled in him a deep passion for fishing and laid the foundation for his future success.

Kevin’s competitive spirit began to emerge during his teenage years when he started participating in local fishing tournaments. His natural talent and dedication soon caught the attention of fellow anglers and local fishing enthusiasts. As he honed his skills, it became evident that Kevin possessed a rare gift for understanding the behavior of bass and adapting to the changing conditions on the water.

Early Career and Rise to Prominence:

In 1987, at the age of 20, Kevin VanDam made his debut in the Bassmaster Tournament Trail, stepping onto the national stage of professional bass fishing. Though his initial outings were challenging, he never lost sight of his aspirations. Instead, he embraced every opportunity to learn from experienced anglers, refining his techniques and strategies with each competition.

The breakthrough moment in Kevin’s career came in 1991 when he secured his first Bassmaster Classic victory. This watershed achievement announced his arrival as a force to be reckoned with in the world of competitive bass fishing. His win not only brought him the coveted title but also earned him widespread recognition among his peers and fans alike.

Dominance and Consistency:

As the years rolled on, Kevin VanDam’s dominance in the sport became increasingly apparent. He exhibited unparalleled consistency in tournament after tournament, amassing an impressive collection of wins and top finishes. What set him apart from other anglers was his relentless drive and focus on mastering the intricacies of bass fishing.

Throughout the 2000s, Kevin achieved an incredible feat by winning multiple Bassmaster Angler of the Year titles, showcasing his ability to perform at the highest level year after year. His analytical approach to fishing, combined with his deep knowledge of bass behavior and the science of angling, earned him the nickname “The Professor.”

Tying and Breaking Records:

In 2010, Kevin VanDam reached a milestone that solidified his status as a living legend in bass fishing. He clinched his fourth Bassmaster Classic title, tying the record for the most Classic victories, a feat accomplished by only one other angler before him. This remarkable achievement not only placed him in an elite category but also fueled his motivation to set new records.

Continuing to push the boundaries of the sport, Kevin secured yet another Bassmaster Angler of the Year award in subsequent years, further emphasizing his unparalleled consistency and skill. As he set his sights on new goals, he left an enduring impact on the fishing community, inspiring both seasoned anglers and aspiring newcomers to reach for greatness.

Mentorship and Contributions to the Sport:

Beyond his personal achievements, Kevin VanDam has always been eager to give back to the fishing community. He has authored books, produced instructional videos, and conducted numerous seminars, sharing his wealth of knowledge and experience with fellow anglers. His willingness to share tips, tricks, and insights has endeared him to fans and has played a vital role in nurturing a new generation of anglers.

Not only has Kevin impacted the fishing community through his mentorship, but he has also been an advocate for conservation efforts. Recognizing the importance of preserving the environment and the sport he loves, he actively supports various initiatives aimed at protecting the natural habitats of fish and promoting responsible fishing practices.

Family Life and Personal Interests:

Amidst his busy fishing schedule, Kevin VanDam prioritizes his family life. He is married to Sherry VanDam, and together they have two sons, Jackson and Nicholas. Despite his fame and accomplishments, Kevin remains down-to-earth and appreciative of the support he receives from his family, fans, and fellow anglers.

Apart from fishing, Kevin enjoys hunting and outdoor activities, which serve as a source of rejuvenation and inspiration for his fishing pursuits. He relishes spending quality time with his family, instilling in them the same passion for the outdoors that has defined his life and career.

Conclusion:

Kevin VanDam’s journey from a young boy casting lines in Michigan waters to becoming an elite angler and a true ambassador of the sport is nothing short of remarkable. His relentless pursuit of excellence, unparalleled consistency, and dedication to mentoring the next generation of anglers have left an indelible mark on the world of competitive bass fishing.

With an impressive collection of victories, records, and accolades to his name, Kevin’s legacy continues to resonate with fishing enthusiasts worldwide. As he continues to embrace new challenges and contribute to the sport he loves, there is no doubt that Kevin VanDam’s name will forever be etched in the annals of bass fishing history.

Alabama’s Greg Vinson Earns Group A Qualifying Round Win at Minn Kota Stage Seven at Saginaw Bay Presented by Suzuki

Brian Carter
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Alabama’s Greg Vinson Earns Group A Qualifying Round Win at Minn Kota Stage Seven at Saginaw Bay Presented by Suzuki

Phoenix Boats Pro Boats Two-Day Total of 37-4 Thursday To Win Group A Qualifying Round, Top 20 Pros Advance to Saturday’s Knockout Round

BAY CITY, Mich. (Aug. 3, 2023) – Bass Pro Tour angler Greg Vinson of Wetumpka, Alabama, had to alter his strategy, Thursday, but he still managed to maintain his spot atop the leaderboard and comfortably win the Qualifying Round for Group A at the Major League Fishing (MLF) Bass Pro Tour Minn Kota Stage Seven at Saginaw Bay Presented by Suzuki. After catching 22 pounds, 6 ounces of smallmouth on Day 1 Tuesday, Vinson added a mixed bag of both smallmouth and largemouth weighing 14-14 Thursday to pace the 20 anglers advancing from Group A with a two-day total of 37-4.

Link to HD Video – Fish-Catch Highlights of Group A Qualifying Round Day 2 on Saginaw Bay
Link to Photo Gallery of Group A’s Day 2 Qualifying Round Afternoon Highlights on Saginaw Bay

Local favorite Kevin VanDam of Kalamazoo, Michigan, who is fishing in the final regular-season Bass Pro Tour event of his career, finished the round in second place with a two-day total of 10 bass weighing 33-7. B&W Trailer Hitches pro Russ Lane of Prattville, Alabama , boated a two-day total of 10 bass weighing 32-9 to end the round in third place, while Brookeland, Texas’ Dakota Ebare, finished the day in fourth place with a two-day total of 10 bass weighing 31-14. Pro Zack Birge of Blanchard, Oklahoma, rounds out the top five with a two-day total of 10 bass weighing 31-5.

The top 20 anglers from Group A will now have an off day from competition Friday, while the 40 anglers competing in Group B will complete their two-day Qualifying Round. The top 20 anglers from each group will advance to Saturday’s Knockout Round. In the Knockout Round, weights are zeroed, and the remaining 40 anglers compete to finish in the top 10 to advance to the Championship Round. In Sunday’s final day Championship Round, weight carries over from the Knockout Round and the angler with the heaviest two-day total wins the top prize of $100,000. 

“I had a lot of fun, today,” Vinson said. “I was a little bit worried this morning – I got to my starting area and I could see smallmouth swimming around, but they were in a bad mood and I couldn’t figure out how to make them bite. I got two in the boat, and then I finally caught a 3-12, and that got me up high enough where I could settle down and really look for the extra stuff. That turned out to be really valuable.”

After settling in, Vinson was able to secure a limit of close to 14 pounds and knew that he would advance to the Knockout Round.

“After I felt safe, I shifted gears and went fishing for largemouth,” he said. “I feel good about what I found and know that I can jump on the largemouth deal if the smallmouth aren’t biting. I may not catch 18 or 20 pounds, but I know I can get a good bag of them. Either that or I’ll have to mix and match and have some of both.”

Vinson boated seven bass throughout the day – five smallmouth and two largemouth. He caught his smallmouth drop-shotting a NetBait STH Baitfuel Flat Sided Shad. His afternoon largemouth came on an unnamed swimjig. Vinson credited his Seaguar line as being the key to his successful week, so far.

“The most important thing so far has been my line,” Vinson said. “I have so much confidence that 10-pound (Seaguar) Gold Label (fluorocarbon) leader, right now. It is super strong, and can really handle the smallmouth here. They are so strong – even the 2-pounders here fight like they’re 5-pounders. They’re so fast and they can pop off really quick. But I’ve been fishing clean this week, and I just really trust that 10-pound Gold Label leader. Paired with the 15 -pound Seaguar Smackdown (braided line) for my main line, I’m so confident that the fish that I catch will stay buttoned up.”

The top 20 pros from Group A that now advance to Saturday’s Knockout Round on Saginaw Bay are:

1st:          Greg Vinson, Wetumpka, Ala., 10 bass, 37-4
2nd:        Kevin VanDam, Kalamazoo, Mich., 10 bass, 33-7
3rd:        Russ Lane, Prattville, Ala., 10 bass, 32-9
4th:         Dakota Ebare, Brookeland, Texas, 10 bass, 31-14
5th:         Zack Birge, Blanchard, Okla., 10 bass, 31-5
6th:         Spencer Shuffield, Hot Springs, Ark., 10 bass, 30-14
7th:         Bryan Thrift, Shelby, N.C., 10 bass, 30-13
8th:         Fred Roumbanis, Russellville, Ark., 10 bass, 30-8
9th:         Cole Floyd, Leesburg, Ohio, 10 bass, 29-11
10th:      Jacob Wheeler, Harrison, Tenn., 10 bass, 29-4
11th:      Anthony Gagliardi, Prosperity, S.C., 10 bass, 29-3
12th:      Ott DeFoe, Blaine, Tenn., 10 bass, 28-15
13th:      Roy Hawk, Lake Havasu City, Ariz., 10 bass, 28-13
14th:      Michael Neal, Dayton, Tenn., 10 bass, 28-4
15th:      Bradley Roy, Lancaster, Ky., 10 bass, 28-0
16th:      Andy Morgan, Dayton, Tenn., 10 bass, 27-14
17th:      Dustin Connell, Clanton, Ala., 10 bass, 27-13
18th:      Edwin Evers, Talala, Okla., 10 bass, 27-9
19th:      Ryan Salzman, Huntsville, Ala., 10 bass, 27-9
20th:      David Walker, Sevierville, Tenn., 10 bass, 27-6

Eliminated from competition are:

21st:      Josh Bertrand, Queen Creek, Ariz., 10 bass, 27-4
22nd:     Tommy Biffle, Wagoner, Okla., 10 bass, 27-2
23rd:     Justin Lucas, Guntersville, Ala., 10 bass, 27-0
24th:      Brandon Coulter, Knoxville, Tenn., 10 bass, 27-0
25th:      Matt Lee, Cullman, Ala., 10 bass, 26-10
26th:      Mark Davis, Mount Ida, Ark., 10 bass, 26-2
27th:      Gary Klein, Mingus, Texas, 10 bass, 26-0
28th:      Fletcher Shryock, Guntersville, Ala., 10 bass, 25-11
29th:      Dean Rojas, Lake Havasu City, Ariz., 10 bass, 25-6
30th:      Chris Lane, Guntersville, Ala., 10 bass, 25-4
31st:      Marty Robinson, Lyman, S.C., 10 bass, 25-2
32nd:     Brett Hite, Phoenix, Ariz., 10 bass, 24-13
33rd:     James Watson, Lampe, Mo., 10 bass, 24-13
34th:      Takahiro Omori, Tokyo, Japan, 10 bass, 23-14
35th:      Andy Montgomery, Blacksburg, S.C., 10 bass, 23-7
36th:      John Murray, Spring City, Tenn., 10 bass, 22-3
37th:      Nick LeBrun, Bossier City, La., 10 bass, 21-6
38th:      Skeet Reese, Auburn, Calif., eight bass, 19-0
39th:      Randy Howell, Guntersville, Ala., seven bass, 16-0
40th:      Dave Lefebre, Erie, Pa., one bass, 4-0

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

Overall, there were 439 scorable bass weighing 990 pounds, 5 ounces caught by the 40 pros Thursday, which included one 5-pounder, two 4-pounders and 42 3-pounders.

Pro Spencer Shuffield of Hot Springs, Arkansas, earned Thursday’s $1,000 Berkley Big Bass Award with a 5-pound, 11-ounce largemouth bass that he caught on a swimjig during Period 2. Berkley awards $1,000 to the angler who weighs the heaviest bass each day, and a $3,000 bonus to the angler who weighs the heaviest bass of the tournament.

The six-day bass-fishing event showcases 80 of the top professional anglers in the world, competing for a purse of more than $805,000, including a top payout of $100,000 and valuable Angler of the Year (AOY) points in hopes of qualifying for the General Tire Heavy Hitters All-Star event and REDCREST 2024, the Bass Pro Tour championship.

The 40 Anglers in Group A competed in their two-day qualifying round on Tuesday and Thursday – the 40 anglers in Group B on Wednesday and Friday. After each two-day qualifying round is complete, the top 20 anglers from each group advance to Saturday’s Knockout Round. In the Knockout Round, weights are zeroed, and the remaining 40 anglers compete to finish in the top 10 to advance to the Championship Round. In Sunday’s final day Championship Round, weight carries over from the Knockout Round and the angler with the heaviest two-day total wins the top prize of $100,000.

Anglers will launch each day at 7:30 a.m. ET from the Golson Boat Launch, located at 1598 N. Johnson St. in Bay City. Each day’s General Tire Takeout will be held at the launch location, beginning at 4 p.m. Fans are welcome to attend all launch and takeout events and also encouraged to follow the event online throughout the day on the MLFNOW!® live stream and SCORETRACKER® coverage at MajorLeagueFishing.com .

As part of the event, on Sat., Aug. 5 and Sun., Aug. 6, the MLF Fan Experience will be taking place at Wenonah Park in Bay City from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. MLF will welcome fans of all ages to celebrate fishing and the outdoors with free giveaways, local vendors, photo opportunities with pro anglers and PAW Patrol characters and the opportunity for fans to hang out and watch the pros live on the MLFNOW! ®  big screen during the MLF Watch Party. The first 100 kids onsite each day will get a free rod and reel combo, and fans can also check out the latest gear and offerings from MLF and MLF sponsors including Toyota, Suzuki, the U.S. Air Force, Humminbird, Minn Kota and Kubota.

On Sunday, the final 10 Championship Round Bass Pro Tour anglers will be on hand at the trophy celebration to meet and greet fans, sign autographs, and take selfies. Kalamazoo’s own Kevin VanDam will be onsite throughout the weekend to celebrate his final regular-season professional tournament with fans.

The Minn Kota Stage Seven at Saginaw Bay Presented by Suzuki features anglers competing using the MLF catch, weigh, immediate-release format, with each angler’s five (5) heaviest bass per day tallied as their day’s weight. Anglers strive to catch their heaviest five fish each day, while also feeling the pressure and intensity of the live scoring SCORETRACKER® leaderboard. Minimum weights are determined individually for each competition waters that the Bass Pro Tour visits, based on the productivity, bass population and anticipated average size of fish in each fishery.

The 2023 MLF Bass Pro Tour features a field of 80 of the top professional anglers in the world competing across seven regular-season tournaments around the country, fishing for millions of dollars and valuable points to qualify for the annual General Tire Heavy Hitters all-star event and REDCREST 2024, the Bass Pro Tour championship, held March 13-17, 2024, on Lay Lake in Birmingham, Alabama.  

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

Television coverage of the Minn Kota Stage Seven at Saginaw Bay Presented by Suzuki will air with a two-hour episode starting at 7 a.m. ET, on Saturday, November 11, on the Discovery Channel. New MLF episodes premiere each Saturday morning on Discovery, with re-airings on the Outdoor Channel.

Proud sponsors of the 2023 MLF Bass Pro Tour include: 13 Fishing, Abu Garcia, Ark Fishing, ATG by Wrangler, B&W Trailer Hitches, Bally Bet, Bass Cat Boats, Bass Pro Shops, Berkley, Black Rifle Coffee, Daiwa, Epic Baits, Favorite Fishing, Ferguson, Fox Rent A Car, General Tire, Grundéns, Humminbird, Lowrance, Minn Kota, Mercury, Mossy Oak, Onyx, Power-Pole, Rapala, Star tron, T-H Marine, TORO, Toyota, U.S. Air Force, Yellowstone Bourbon, Yo-Zuri and Zoom Baits.

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

Britt Myers Cruises to Group B Lead at MLF Minn Kota Stage Seven Presented by Suzuki at Saginaw Bay

Brian Carter
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Britt Myers Cruises to Group B Lead at MLF Minn Kota Stage Seven Presented by Suzuki at Saginaw Bay

South Carolina Pro Leads by 1-Pound, 14 Ounces after Group B Day 1, Group A to Wrap Up Two-Day Qualifying Round Thursday

BAY CITY, Mich. (Aug. 2, 2023) – Despite strong winds and rainy weather making conditions less favorable for Group B anglers, General Tire pro Britt Myers of Lake Wylie, South Carolina weighed in five scorable largemouth bass totaling 17 pounds, 13 ounces, to grab the early Group B Day 1 lead at the Major League Fishing (MLF) Bass Pro Tour Minn Kota Stage Seven on Saginaw Bay Presented by Suzuki . Pro Jeff Sprague of Wills Point, Texas finished the day in close contention, weighing in a mixed bag of five scorable largemouth and smallmouth totaling 15-15, good for second place.

Link to HD Video – Fish-Catch Highlights of Group B Qualifying Round Day 1 on Saginaw Bay
Link to Photo Gallery of Group B’s Day 1 Qualifying Round Highlights

The six-day tournament, hosted by Bay City, Michigan, showcases 80 of the top professional anglers in the world, competing for a purse of more than $805,000, including a top payout of $100,000 and valuable Angler of the Year (AOY) points in hopes of qualifying for the General Tire Heavy Hitters All-Star event and REDCREST 2024, the Bass Pro Tour championship.

“What an unexpected day,” said Myers. “After a horrible practice, I couldn’t have asked for a better day. I often hear tournament-anglers talk about giving up and going home after a bad practice, but some of my best days of fishing have come after having bad days of practice.

“I didn’t catch a single 3-pounder during both practice days this week, but I came into today with an open mind, just looking for a sign,” Myers continued. “I caught my first 3-pounder within the first 15 minutes of competition and that showed me the depth where the fish were hanging out.”

Myers spent the day throwing a buzzbait and flipping a hollow body topwater frog in five inches of water.

“That 3-pound, 6-ounce largemouth right out of the gate took a giant load off of me and got me into the General Tire Heavy Hitters event,” said Myers. “As the day went on, I caught several more 3-pounders that just sealed the deal for today and put me in a good place going into the next day of competition.”

While smallmouth are predicted to win the final Bass Pro Tour event of the season on Saginaw Bay, high winds and changing weather conditions seem to be challenging those expectations, with smallmouth being harder to come by and largemouth making an 11% jump on SCORETRACKER® during the second day of competition.

After spending the bulk of his practice searching for smallmouth, and only finding less than stellar largemouth, Myers said he was thrilled to be able to produce some quality bites today.  

“Thankfully I found myself in a super fortunate situation toward the end of the day, with the weight I had, so I was able to look around and fish some other areas that may come into play later on in the event,” said Myers. “I feel super blessed and super happy and can’t wait to get back out there on Friday.”

The 40 anglers in Group B will now have an off day from competition Thursday, while the 40 anglers competing in Group A will wrap up their two-day Qualifying Round. Group B will finish their Qualifying Round on Friday.

The top 20 pros in Group B after Day 1 on Saginaw Bay are:

1st:           Britt Myers, Wylie, S.C., five bass, 17-13
2nd:          Jeff Sprague, Wills Point, Texas, five bass, 15-15
3rd:          Brent Ehrler, Redlands, Calif., five bass,15-8
4th:           Mark Daniels Jr., Tuskegee, Ala., five bass, 15-8
5th:           Keith Poche, Pike Road, Ala., five bass, 15-2
6th:           Casey Ashley, Donalds, S.C., five bass, 15-1
7th:           Mark Rose, Wynne, Ark., five bass, 14-13
8th:           Brent Chapman, Lake Quivira, Kan., five bass, 14-10
9th:           Jeremy Lawyer, Sarcoxie, Mo., five bass, 14-9
10th:        Jordan Lee, Cullman, Ala., five bass, 14-7
11th:        Cody Meyer, Star, Idaho, five bass, 14-7
12th:        Cliff Pace, Petal, Miss., five bass, 14-6
13th:        James Elam, Tulsa, Okla., five bass, 14-5
14th:        Jacob Wall, New Hope, Ala., five bass, 14-3
15th:        Jesse Wiggins, Addison, Ala., five bass, 14-2
16th:        Randall Tharp, Port Saint Joe, Fla., five bass, 14-1
17th:        Mitch Crane, Columbus, Miss., five bass, 14-1
18th:        Stephen Browning, Hot Springs, Ark., five bass, 13-14
19th:        Todd Faircloth, Jasper, Texass, five bass, 13-11
20th:        Alton Jones Jr., Waco, Texas, five bass, 13-9

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

Berkley pro Jordan Lee of Cullman, Alabama earned the $1,000 Berkley Big Bass award after a 3-pound, 15-ounce largemouth bit his frog in Period 1. Berkley awards $1,000 to the angler who weighs the heaviest bass each day, and another $3,000 bonus to the angler who weighs the heaviest bass of the tournament.

The 40 Anglers in Group A compete in their two-day qualifying round on Tuesday and Thursday – the 40 anglers in Group B on Wednesday and Friday. After each two-day qualifying round is complete, the top 20 anglers from each group advance to Saturday’s Knockout Round. In the Knockout Round, weights are zeroed, and the remaining 40 anglers compete to finish in the top 10 to advance to Sunday’s Championship Round. In the final day Championship Round, weight carries over from the Knockout Round and the angler with the heaviest two-day total wins the top prize of $100,000.

Anglers will launch each day at 7:30 a.m. ET from the Golson Boat Launch, located at 1598 N. Johnson St. in Bay City. Each day’s General Tire Takeout will be held at the launch location, beginning at 4 p.m. Fans are welcome to attend all launch and takeout events and also encouraged to follow the event online throughout the day on the MLFNOW!® live stream and SCORETRACKER® coverage at  MajorLeagueFishing.com.

As part of the event, on Saturday, August 5 and Sunday, August 6, the MLF Fan Experience will be taking place at Wenonah Park in Bay City from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. MLF will welcome fans of all ages to celebrate fishing and the outdoors with free giveaways, local vendors, photo opportunities with pro anglers and PAW Patrol characters and the opportunity for fans to hang out and watch the pros live on the MLFNOW! ®  big screen during the MLF Watch Party. The first 100 kids onsite each day will get a free rod and reel combo, and fans can also check out the latest gear and offerings from MLF and MLF sponsors including Toyota, Suzuki, the U.S. Air Force, Humminbird, Minn Kota and Kubota.

On Sunday, the final 10 Championship Round Bass Pro Tour anglers will be on hand at the trophy celebration to meet and greet fans, sign autographs, and take selfies. Kalamazoo’s own Kevin VanDam will be onsite throughout the weekend to celebrate his final regular-season professional tournament with fans.

The Minn Kota Stage Seven at Saginaw Bay Presented by Suzuki features anglers competing using the MLF catch, weigh, immediate-release format, with each angler’s five (5) heaviest bass per day tallied as their day’s weight. Anglers strive to catch their heaviest five fish each day, while also feeling the pressure and intensity of the live scoring SCORETRACKER® leaderboard. Minimum weights are determined individually for each competition waters that the Bass Pro Tour visits, based on the productivity, bass population and anticipated average size of fish in each fishery.

The 2023 MLF Bass Pro Tour features a field of 80 of the top professional anglers in the world competing across seven regular-season tournaments around the country, fishing for millions of dollars and valuable points to qualify for the annual General Tire Heavy Hitters all-star event and REDCREST 2024, the Bass Pro Tour championship, held March 13-17, 2024, on Lay Lake in Birmingham, Alabama.  

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

Television coverage of the Minn Kota Stage Seven at Saginaw Bay and Saginaw River Presented by Suzuki Championship Round will air with a two-hour episode starting at 7 a.m. ET, on Saturday, November 11, on the Discovery Channel. New MLF episodes premiere each Saturday morning on Discovery, with re-airings on the Outdoor Channel.

Proud sponsors of the 2023 MLF Bass Pro Tour include: 13 Fishing, Abu Garcia, Ark Fishing, ATG by Wrangler, B&W Trailer Hitches, Bally Bet, Bass Cat Boats, Bass Pro Shops, Berkley, Black Rifle Coffee, Daiwa, Epic Baits, Favorite Fishing, Ferguson, Fox Rent A Car, General Tire, Grundéns, Humminbird, Lowrance, Minn Kota, Mercury, Mossy Oak, Onyx, Power-Pole, Rapala, Star tron, T-H Marine, TORO, Toyota, U.S. Air Force, Yellowstone Bourbon, Yo-Zuri and Zoom Baits.

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

DAIWA Adds to the EXIST Family

Brian Carter
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DAIWA Adds to the EXIST Family
DAIWA Adds to the EXIST Family
New EXIST models bring slower gear ratios and great line capacity to serious freshwater and inshore anglers.
FOOTHILL RANCH, CA (August 2, 2023) – DAIWA is proud to expand its brilliantly-designed EXIST spinning reel family with new 2500 and 3000 models. Once again, style, innovation, research, and passion come together in the birth of two new EXIST models featuring every bell and whistle an angler could ask for in a spinning reel. “What you find in the EXIST is a flagship spinning reel designed and manufactured for the most serious of anglers seeking the highest level of performance, weight reduction, and rotation,” says Marc Mills, DAIWA Marketing Manager. “We’re proud to offer more than what anglers have been asking for or even expecting in the expansion of the EXIST family.”
“Perhaps the most important design consideration in the EXIST’s supreme performance,” comments Mills, “is DAIWA built the entire reel around the AIRDRIVE concept.”Two new additions to the EXIST family include the EXIGLT2500-PCH and EXIGLT3000-H. Both offer anglers the benefits of DAIWA’s Advanced Tournament (ATD) system for a maximum of 22-pounds of drag pressure. The 2500-PCH weighs 6.2-ounces and offers 31.5-inches per handle turn. The 3000-H weighs the same 6.2-ounces with 33.6-inches of line per handle turn. Each holds a vast amount of monofilament, fluorocarbon, or braid for any technique the angler chooses to employ. Each size features 12BB (10CRBB+2MBB) + 1. 
The reel is available in interchangeable right- and left-handed version with 5.7:1 gear ratio. All were designed to meet the needs and expectations of freshwater and saltwater anglers fishing different presentations. “These two new additions to EXIST feature a little slower gear ratio—5.7:1—but with greater line capacity. The current, higher-speed EXIST 2500 has a shallower spool. Same with the 3000, which now offers anglers a deeper spool and 5.7:1 gear ratio compared to the current 6.2:1. These new models will appeal to anglers fishing all monofilament or fluorocarbon; some of the inshore guys will want these models, too, for the increased line capacity,” notes Mills.
DAIWA EXIST FAMILY OVERVIEWThe EXIST family features an EXIST AIRDRIVE System with ZAION AIRDRIVE Rotor, AIRDRIVE Bail, AIRDRIVE Spool, and AIRDRIVE Shaft. Thanks to ZAION, the EXIST AIRDRIVE Rotor is 15% lighter, features a screwless design, flush surface, and greatly increased rigidity. The design eliminates waste without reducing strength. But the largest benefit to the AIRDRIVE ROTOR is the lighter rotation produces less handle turning resistance.Working in conjunction with the AIRDRIVE ROTOR is the AIRDRIVE SHAFT, which offers better stability and power transfer; it also works with the rotor for smoother, easier rotations. It allows you to feel absolutely nothing when turning the handle—it could be the smoothest rotation in any spinning reel ever built. 
The AIRDRIVE Bail is lighter and angled allowing seamless transition to the line roller. On to the AIRDRIVE Spool, it’s considerably lighter than comparable reels. The clicker in the spool reduces click resistance, creating smoother and much more efficient drag.For freshwater and inshore anglers seeking their next premium, precision long-casting spinning reel, look no further than the EXIST family, a reel engineered with advanced technology and constructed of the finest and most durable materials available. 
Features AIRDRIVE ROTOR AIRDRIVE BAIL AIRDRIVE SPOOL AIRDRIVE SHAFT MONOCOQUE (MQ) Magnesium Frame Ball Bearing Supported ATD-Type L Drag MAGSEALED Frame and Line Roller Machined TOUGH DIGIGEAR MSRP $859.99
For Daiwa’s latest color catalog and/or information on Daiwa dealers in your area, call Daiwa’s Customer Service Department at 562-375-6800 or e-mail inquiries to: [email protected]. The URL for Daiwa’s web site is daiwa.us

Digging Out of a Slump by Justin Largen

Brian Carter
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Digging Out of a Slump by Justin Largen

Digging Out of a Slump


My spring tournaments did not go as planned. After a great start to the season in Florida, I had several bad events in a row. Poor finishes left me towards the bottom of the AOY standings for Bassmaster, with an uphill battle just to qualify for the ’24 Championship. I was competing on fantastic lakes that suit my style, but I wasn’t fishing well. At one event I couldn’t find better-than-average fish. At another I made poor decisions. Lost fish plagued me at others. I was close, but something was off. I’m pretty sure they call that a slump.
I was thrilled to have good finishes at the KBF Potomac River Trail events at the end of April, but I wasn’t confident that the slump was behind me. The Potomac was my home water for more than 10 years, so I expected to do well there. With a little bit of a break before the next big tournament, I shifted gears and spent the month of May focused on fishing for fun. I picked up a Crescent UltraLite, a lightweight, paddle-only kayak with no bells and whistles, and I spent some time exploring small rivers and quiet, little lakes that don’t allow boats with outboards. This took me back to my roots, so to speak. It reminded me of why I started fishing from a kayak. The simplicity was refreshing. No motor, no electronics, no mountain of tackle. Just a couple of rods, a small box of lures, and a paddle to propel me. It was therapeutic to just lose myself on the water. I wasn’t stressing about crowded ramps, gas prices, entry fees, or trying to make a check. It was just me in nature chasing little green and brown fish.


I ran into some big stream smallmouth on those trips, and that left me hungry to come back. I found some nice largemouth in the little lakes too. And it was good to feel those neglected muscles in my back, shoulders, and core working again. Miles and miles of pedaling was great for the legs, but I felt awfully weak when I paddled a couple of miles against the current for the first time in years. These trips were a lot of fun, and I could feel myself reconnecting with the fish. I started to understand areas the smallmouth were using and how they were positioning, which boosted my confidence. Then I decided to sign up for a club tournament on the Shenandoah River. It was nostalgic being back on that river after several years away. I fished it nearly every day when I was in college, and I’ve made a number of return trips over the years. That river was responsible for much of my growth as an angler. It was good to me during the tournament too. I caught lots of fish and had a respectable limit, good enough for a top 10. A few weeks later, I fished another club event on the tidal Rappahannock. I’d never fished that river before, so I decided to bring the little UltraLite along with my Hobie. That turned out to be a good decision. The fish I located were in extremely shallow water around thick vegetation. The little kayak was perfect for navigating around the spatterdock and sliding over hydrilla. I caught them pretty well and ended up in 3rd place. Fast forward another week, and I used the little kayak for the KBF Trail I on Lake Chickamauga. I’d found fish in a skinny backwater and decided that the smaller kayak was the right tool for the job. At an event where most anglers used bigger kayaks with motors and high-end electronics, I paddled my way to a top 10. The following day, I returned to my Outback and finished 3rd in a different section of the lake. The slump was finally over!


To be fair, I’ve had two mediocre events since Chickamauga, but I still think the slump is behind me. My finishes on Cayuga and the Mississippi River were middle of the pack. They weren’t great, but they also weren’t bombs. Though I didn’t get the results I wanted, the standings aren’t the only measure of success. I’m happy with how I competed at both tournaments. I made good adjustments, took calculated risks, and converted most of my bites into catches – things I didn’t do earlier in the year.


So, what changed during that down time in May? How much of a role did the new kayak play? It was awesome having a small kayak to get me into some remote places, but my issue was bigger than the boat itself. The key for me was having fun again. I love competing in tournaments, but it can be stressful when you spend lots of time and money traveling and competing. I found myself focusing too much on results and losing sight of the fun part, the actual fishing. The time away from tournaments and travel gave me the opportunity to fish more back home. I got to revisit some of my favorite waters and explore new ones. Fishing in beautiful, remote places helped me rediscover the joy of kayak fishing. Being in a simple kayak was refreshing too. Loading and unloading was quick, and I didn’t need a ton of accessories or tackle. This simple approach reminded me that you don’t have to be on a world class fishery chasing checks and trophies to enjoy this sport. The most memorable outings are often spent close to home, with family and friends, just having a good time. Next time you have a bad tournament or two, hit the reset button. Remember to have fun, and good things will happen.

August 2023 Smith Mountain Lake Fishing Report by Captain Chad Green

Brian Carter
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August 2023 Smith Mountain Lake Fishing Report by Captain Chad Green

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


August is one of the best months of the summer. 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

Largemouth Bass/Smallmouth Bass
The Bass have moved full swing in to the summer and the crawfish have become first priority as well. They will be located on primary and have transition areas near them. The depth range will vary each day this month depending on rain, sunlight and temperatures. 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 July are usually soft plastics producing the most bites. Shakey Heads, Plastic worms, Drop shots and Jigs in the 10-20 ft range. Night time fishing will be great this month as well. Try large profile baits in the same depth ranges especially around dawn and dusk. This is a great opportunity to catch some trophy fish and multiples per night is very common. 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 summer 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 summer. 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 can be found on the surface feeding early mornings on the lower end of the lake and can be fast and furious action. 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 started their summer journey as well. Try deeper trees and larger docks with deep water in the 15-25 foot range.

Tournaments August
SML bassmasters open Aug 12th State Park 6-2
Tues night 630-1030pm and Friday night 8pm-2am Tournaments all summer at captains quarters marina
Saturday night Tournaments 8pm-2am Foxport Marina

Special Thanks to Brian Carter at the www.BassCast.com

Greg Vinson Jumps to Early Lead at MLF Minn Kota Stage Seven Presented by Suzuki at Saginaw Bay

Brian Carter
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Greg Vinson Jumps to Early Lead at MLF Minn Kota Stage Seven Presented by Suzuki at Saginaw Bay

Alabama Pro Scores a Five-Fish Limit Weighing 22 Pounds, 6 Ounces to Lead After Day 1 for Group A – Group B Begins Competition Wednesday

BAY CITY, Mich. (Aug. 1, 2023) – Phoenix pro Greg “The Rooster” Vinson of Wetumpka, Alabama , went on a morning flurry, weighing in 12 scorable bass, with his best five totaling 22 pounds, 6 ounces, to grab the early lead for Group A after Day 1 of the Major League Fishing (MLF) Bass Pro Tour Minn Kota Stage Seven on Saginaw Bay Presented by Suzuki. Pro Jacob Wheeler of Harrison, Tennessee sits 4 pounds, 4 ounces behind Vinson with five scorable bass totaling 18-2, good for second place, while Texan Dakota Ebare rounds out the top three, finishing a mere 5 ounces behind Wheeler, with a five-fish limit weighing 17-13.

The six-day tournament, hosted by Bay City, Michigan, showcases 80 of the top professional anglers in the world, competing for a purse of more than $805,000, including a top payout of $100,000 and valuable Angler of the Year (AOY) points in hopes of qualifying for the General Tire Heavy Hitters All-Star event and REDCREST 2024, the Bass Pro Tour championship.

Link to HD Video – Fish-Catch Highlights of Group A Qualifying Round Day 1 on Saginaw Bay
Link to Photo Gallery of Group A’s Day 1 Qualifying Round Highlights

The 40 anglers in Group A will now have an off day from competition Wednesday, while the 40 anglers competing in Group B will begin their first day of competition. Group A will resume competition on Thursday.

Vinson shot out of the gate early Tuesday, racking up 22 pounds in Period 1. Although smallmouth dominated the leaderboard throughout the day, largemouth were in contention as well, with many pros– including Vinson – ending the day with a combination of both.

“Man, what an awesome day,” said Vinson. “I knew it was possible after looking at previous weights from past tournaments, but there’s a lot to take into consideration on this big body of water. Somehow, I just ran across them today and I couldn’t ask for anything more.”

While mere ounces separated many of the anglers in the top 10, Vinson finished the day with a substantial margin over Wheeler going into the second day of competition for Group A.

“This morning was the kind of day you dream about in tournament fishing,” said Vinson. “Oftentimes you find something in practice that looks promising, but then you pull up during the competition and it’s almost always different than what you expected, so you have to adjust.

“This morning I pulled up where I’d seen these fish the other day during practice, and it started off a little slow, but once they grouped up, it was lights out,” Vinson continued. “There was a school of those bigger smallmouth and every time I’d catch one, I’d pull the whole school up and kind of move them. I had a good feel for the line they were moving up and down each time though, so I just kept fishing around them, and eventually I’d catch another one.”

A total of 16 fish weighing more than 4 pounds were caught during Day 1, with six of those reeled in by Vinson.

“There was about a one-hour window this morning that was just magical,” said Vinson. “Every time I got bit, I pulled out a 4-pounder and those are so hard to come by here this week, so that was something really special that I won’t ever forget. I put a lot of work, worry and stress into this tournament, so it’s nice when you have a day like today and all that preparation pays off.”

Although Vinson filled his limit with quality fish early in the day, he didn’t upgrade once in the final period.

“The last few hours of the day were fun, but unproductive,” Vinson continued. “I caught three or four later in the last period that were scorable, but not significant.

“I really thought I’d get some 2- to 3-pound largemouth while running new water this afternoon, but obviously the area I was in wasn’t the ticket,” said Vinson. “Thankfully I figured that out today and not during the competition on Thursday, and that also gave me more confidence in the areas where I did find some better largemouth.”

Vinson said he spent 12 hours looking for quality smallmouth during practice, and only has one area that he feels confident in going into the next day of competition.

“I hate to even think about having to go find them again, so if it’s not happening on Thursday, I’ll just have to jump on the largemouth train and try to get through to the next round,” Vinson said. “I think the biggest factor for me is going to be the wind that’s being forecast. With the area I’m in and the style I’m fishing, I feel really vulnerable going into the second day of competition.

“I’m not a smallmouth specialist,” Vinson continued. “I can catch them, but when the weather changes the smallmouth will change patterns, so I have to be ready for that and have another plan in place.

“I came into this event on the other side of the cutline for REDCREST, which will be in my home state of Alabama next year,” Vinson continued. “Hopefully I can catch enough to make it through to the next round and have a good chance of qualifying for REDCREST.”

The top 20 pros in Group A after Day 1 on Saginaw Bay are:

1st:           Greg Vinson, Wetumpka, Ala., five bass, 22-6
2nd:          Jacob Wheeler, Harrison, Tenn., five bass, 18-2
3rd:          Dakota Ebare, Brookeland, Texas, five bass, 17-13
4th:           Kevin VanDam, Kalamazoo, Mich., five bass, 17-11
5th:           Russ Lane, Prattville, Ala., five bass, 16-13
6th:           Bryan Thrift, Shelby, N.C., five bass, 16-10
7th:           Zack Birge, Blanchard, Okla., five bass, 16-8
8th:           Brandon Coulter, Knoxville, Tenn., five bass, 16-4
9th:           Justin Lucas, Guntersville, Ala., five bass, 16-2
10th:        Ott DeFoe, Blaine, Tenn., five bass, 15-10
11th:        Michael Neal, Dayton, Tenn., five bass, 15-7
12th:        Tommy Biffle, Wagoner, Okla., five bass, 15-7
13th:        Anthony Gagliardi, Prosperity, S.C., five bass, 15-3
14th:        Josh Bertrand, Queen Creek, Ariz., five bass, 14-14
15th:        Cole Floyd, Leesburg, Ohio, five bass, 14-13
16th:        Bradley Roy, Lancaster, K.Y., five bass, 14-12
17th:        Gary Klein, Mingus, Texas, five bass, 14-8
18th:        Fred Roumbanis, Russellville, Ark., five bass, 14-8
19th:        Mark Davis, Mount Ida, Ark., five bass, 14-7
20th:        Spencer Shuffield, Hot Springs, Ark., five bass, 14-6

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

Vinson tied with Berkley pro Justin Lucas of Guntersville, Alabama for Tuesday’s $1,000 Berkley Big Bass Award, each weighing in a bass totaling 4 pounds, 10 ounces, to claim a share of the daily award. Berkley awards $1,000 to the angler who weighs the heaviest bass each day, and another $3,000 bonus to the angler who weighs the heaviest bass of the tournament.

The 40 Anglers in Group A compete in their two-day qualifying round on Tuesday and Thursday – the 40 anglers in Group B on Wednesday and Friday. After each two-day qualifying round is complete, the top 20 anglers from each group advance to Saturday’s Knockout Round. In the Knockout Round, weights are zeroed, and the remaining 40 anglers compete to finish in the top 10 to advance to Sunday’s Championship Round. In the final day Championship Round, weight carries over from the Knockout Round and the angler with the heaviest two-day total wins the top prize of $100,000.

Anglers will launch each day at 7:30 a.m. ET from the Golson Boat Launch, located at 1598 N. Johnson St. in Bay City. Each day’s General Tire Takeout will be held at the launch location, beginning at 4 p.m. Fans are welcome to attend all launch and takeout events and also encouraged to follow the event online throughout the day on the MLFNOW!® live stream and SCORETRACKER® coverage at  MajorLeagueFishing.com.

As part of the event, on Saturday, August 5 and Sunday, August 6, the MLF Fan Experience will be taking place at Wenonah Park in Bay City from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. MLF will welcome fans of all ages to celebrate fishing and the outdoors with free giveaways, local vendors, photo opportunities with pro anglers and PAW Patrol characters and the opportunity for fans to hang out and watch the pros live on the MLFNOW! ®  big screen during the MLF Watch Party. The first 100 kids onsite each day will get a free rod and reel combo, and fans can also check out the latest gear and offerings from MLF and MLF sponsors including Toyota, Suzuki, the U.S. Air Force, Humminbird, Minn Kota and Kubota.

On Sunday, the final 10 Championship Round Bass Pro Tour anglers will be on hand at the trophy celebration to meet and greet fans, sign autographs, and take selfies. Kalamazoo’s own Kevin VanDam will be onsite throughout the weekend to celebrate his final regular-season professional tournament with fans.

The Minn Kota Stage Seven at Saginaw Bay Presented by Suzuki features anglers competing using the MLF catch, weigh, immediate-release format, with each angler’s five (5) heaviest bass per day tallied as their day’s weight. Anglers strive to catch their heaviest five fish each day, while also feeling the pressure and intensity of the live scoring SCORETRACKER® leaderboard. Minimum weights are determined individually for each competition waters that the Bass Pro Tour visits, based on the productivity, bass population and anticipated average size of fish in each fishery.

The 2023 MLF Bass Pro Tour features a field of 80 of the top professional anglers in the world competing across seven regular-season tournaments around the country, fishing for millions of dollars and valuable points to qualify for the annual General Tire Heavy Hitters all-star event and REDCREST 2024, the Bass Pro Tour championship, held March 13-17, 2024, on Lay Lake in Birmingham, Alabama.  

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

Television coverage of the Minn Kota Stage Seven at Saginaw Bay and Saginaw River Presented by Suzuki Championship Round will air with a two-hour episode starting at 7 a.m. ET, on Saturday, November 11, on the Discovery Channel. New MLF episodes premiere each Saturday morning on Discovery, with re-airings on the Outdoor Channel.

Proud sponsors of the 2023 MLF Bass Pro Tour include: 13 Fishing, Abu Garcia, Ark Fishing, ATG by Wrangler, B&W Trailer Hitches, Bally Bet, Bass Cat Boats, Bass Pro Shops, Berkley, Black Rifle Coffee, Daiwa, Epic Baits, Favorite Fishing, Ferguson, Fox Rent A Car, General Tire, Grundéns, Humminbird, Lowrance, Minn Kota, Mercury, Mossy Oak, Onyx, Power-Pole, Rapala, Star tron, T-H Marine, TORO, Toyota, U.S. Air Force, Yellowstone Bourbon, Yo-Zuri and Zoom Baits.

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

Why Invest in Pro Angler Approved Tackle for Bass Fishing?

Brian Carter
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Why Invest in Pro Angler Approved Tackle for Bass Fishing?

In Photo Kevin VanDam Promoting Mustad Hooks

?? Hey fellow anglers! ?? Today, let’s dive into the intriguing world of Bass Fishing and discuss the significance of the tackle we choose to purchase, particularly when it’s endorsed by a professional angler. ??

In my humble opinion, having a professional angler promote a specific tackle can have a profound impact on our fishing experience. These experts have spent countless hours honing their skills and understanding the intricacies of bass fishing. Their endorsement serves as a stamp of approval, giving us confidence in the quality and effectiveness of the tackle they promote.

When we invest in gear recommended by professional anglers, we gain access to their expertise and knowledge.  We can learn techniques, tricks, and strategies directly from the pros, enabling us to improve our own fishing skills. Additionally, their endorsements often come with valuable insights and tips on how to maximize the performance of the tackle, boosting our chances of landing that prized bass.

Moreover, supporting professional anglers and the brands they endorse helps sustain the sport we love. Their partnerships ensure the continuity of research and development, leading to innovation in tackle design. By investing in these endorsed products, we contribute to the growth and progression of bass fishing as a whole.

However, it’s important to remember that personal preference should not be overlooked. While professional endorsements are valuable, we should still consider our own fishing style, budget, and individual needs. It’s worth exploring various options and seeking advice from experienced anglers in our local communities to find the perfect fit for our fishing adventures.

So, next time you’re in the market for new tackle, don’t underestimate the influence of professional anglers. Their endorsements can provide us with a wealth of knowledge, elevate our fishing game, and contribute to the continued success of bass fishing. Tight lines, my fellow anglers! ???? #BassFishing #TackleTalk #AnglerWisdom

Clay Ausley & Ken McNeil Win CATT Old North Jordan Lake, NC July 29, 2023

Brian Carter
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Clay Ausley & Ken McNeil Win CATT Old North Jordan Lake, NC July 29, 2023

Guys we’ve had to move the Aug 5th Qualifier at Jordan Lake to Aug 12 at Jordan. Hope this works for all!

Clay Ausley & Ken McNeil took 1st Place with 5 bass weighing 20.44 lbs worth $1,200.00!

Rick Dunstan & Mike Ferrell took 2nd with a limit weighing 14.67 lbs and they earned $570.00!

TeamBFWeightWinningsPoints
Clay Ausley Ken McNeil4.6220.44$1,200.00110
Rick Dunstan Mike Ferrell5.9814.67$570.00109
Michael Maull5.9014.52108
Jay Fogleman Doug Stallings6.2012.08$36.00107
Thomas Sheffer Gavin Sheffer5.7610.28106
Damon Clark Nolan Clark0.0010.26105
Eric Schell Dustin Morgan5.209.08104
Todd Sumner Rich Szczerbala6.608.96$86.00103
Douglas Phillips Randy Leonard0.006.96102
Manny Lenau0.006.94101
John McClelland Larry Godfrey0.004.70100
Jason Gibson Quade Lukes0.004.1499
Daniel Dix Andrew Steagall0.000.0089
Total Entrys$1,680.00
BONUS $$500.00
Total Paid At Ramp$1,890.00
Old North 2023 Fall Final Fund$190.00
CATT$50.00
2024 CATT Championship Fund$50.00
2024 Old North Fall Final Fund Total$190.00

Unlocking the Secrets: Boost your Instagram Following & Engagement for Rapid Growth!

Brian Carter
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Unlocking the Secrets: Boost your Instagram Following & Engagement for Rapid Growth!

Getting the most out of your Instagram account may be challenging, but armed with these tips, you’re well on your way to unlocking remarkable growth and engagement. So, go ahead, implement these strategies, and watch your Instagram presence flourish like never before!

  1. Post high-quality content: Share visually appealing and well-edited photos and videos of your bass fishing experiences. Use professional equipment or editing apps to enhance the visual appeal of your posts.
  2. Find your niche: Identify your unique selling point or niche within the bass fishing community. This could be focusing on particular techniques, locations, or gear. By targeting a specific audience, you can attract engaged followers who share your interests.
  3. Use relevant hashtags: Research and include popular and niche-specific hashtags in your captions to increase the visibility of your posts. This helps users interested in bass fishing discover your content and potentially engage with it.
  4. Engage with your audience: Respond to comments and direct messages promptly to encourage conversations and build relationships with your followers. Like and comment on posts from other bass fishing enthusiasts to foster a sense of community.
  5. Collaborate with others: Partner with other bass fishing accounts or influencers to cross-promote each other’s content. Collaborations can help expose your account to a wider audience and increase engagement.
  6. Run contests and giveaways: Host regular contests or giveaways where followers can participate and win fishing-related products or experiences. This encourages engagement, attracts new followers, and increases the visibility of your account.
  7. Use Instagram Stories and Live: Share behind-the-scenes content, quick tips, or live fishing sessions through Instagram Stories and Live features. These features create a sense of urgency and exclusivity, encouraging followers to engage and watch your content in real-time.
  8. Post consistently: Maintain a regular posting schedule to keep your followers engaged and interested in your content. This could be daily, a few times a week, or whatever frequency works best for you. Consistency helps build anticipation and keeps your account relevant in your followers’ feeds.
  9. Analyze your insights: Pay attention to Instagram Insights to understand which posts are performing well and resonating with your audience. Use this data to guide your content strategy and create more of what your followers enjoy.
  10. Stay active and participate in the community: Engage with other bass fishing accounts and users by liking, commenting, and following their content. Be genuine and contribute to discussions to build connections and attract attention to your account.
  11. Instagram Reels are crucial for engagement as they are highly visible on the Explore page and prioritized by the algorithm. Their potential for virality and the editing tools provided make them essential for capturing users’ attention and driving interaction. Overall, Reels play a significant role in boosting engagement and growing your presence on Instagram.

Remember, growing your Instagram account takes time and patience. Consistently implementing these strategies and staying dedicated to providing valuable content will help you gain more engagement and followers over time.

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