Dekalb Fishing Team and Greene County Bassmaster share Day 1 lead at High School National Championship

August 1, 2025

Dekalb Fishing Team and Greene County Bassmaster share Day 1 lead at High School National Championship

Mason Taylor and Wesley Kent of the Dekalb Fishing Team and Eli Herring and Hunter Lee of the Greene County Bassmasters share the lead on Day 1 of the Strike King Bassmaster High School National Championship at Clarks Hill Lake with a total of 13 pounds, 6 ounces.

Photo by Tyler Bridges/B.A.S.S.

July 31, 2025

Dekalb Fishing Team and Greene County Bassmaster share Day 1 lead at High School National Championship

EVANS, Ga. — As a high school angler, making it to the Strike King Bassmaster High School National Championship is the ultimate goal. Taking the Day 1 lead of this prestigious event (held on Georgia’s Clarks Hill Lake) is everything you can hope for as a competitor, which is exactly what Mason Taylor and Wesley Kent of the Dekalb Fishing Team did early during weigh-in. However, Eli Herring and Hunter Lee of the Greene County Bassmasters wanted a piece of that lead as well.

At the conclusion of the Day 1 weigh-in, the Dekalb Fishing Team duo of Taylor and Kent share the lead with Herring and Lee of Greene County Bassmasters with a three-fish limit of 13 pounds, 6 ounces.

As seniors fishing their final Bassmaster High School National Championship, Taylor and Kent are thrilled to get off to such a great start.

“It’s awesome to get a great start like this,” said Taylor. “It’s such a neat feeling knowing we’re at the top of the leaderboard so far. It would really mean the world to be able to pull this thing off.”

Getting keeper bites was not a problem for the team from Central Tennessee, as they caught an estimated 20 keepers throughout the day. Needing just a three-fish limit, this meant plenty of culling throughout the day.

“We caught them all day to be honest,” said Kent. “We started out pretty quick this morning with 7 pounds or so by 7:30 or 8, then just put our heads down for the rest of the day.

“At about Noon I ended up catching that 5-11 which gave us the confidence to float around that area for the rest of the day. Then we ended up catching another 3 pounder and a 4 pounder, which was awesome.”

Knowing how tight the weights are at the top of the leaderboard, the Dekalb duo expects that they’ll need to be close to replicating their Day 1 weight over the next two days to have a chance to win.

“We have good hopes for tomorrow,” said Kent. “We really didn’t pressure our area too much today, but to do it again we’re just going to have fish clean and keep our heads down.”

Unlike Kent and Taylor, Greene County’s duo of Herring and Lee didn’t get a great number of bites, but the quality was certainly there.

“It was actually pretty tough, we didn’t get a ton of bites and really had to grind it out all day,” said Lee.

The team from Mississippi found an early morning pattern during practice, but due to the number of boats in their primary area, they had to punt on their plans and head to fish in deeper water.

“We only had 7 or 8 keeper bites, but they all turned out to be the right ones,” said Herring. “We kept it pretty simple with our approach as far as baits and really did most of our damage on one bait. Just putting our heads down was the key.”

Herring and Lee’s bag was anchored by a 6-10 game changer that was caught late in the morning.

“We only had three little small ones at the time that we caught that 6-10,” Herring said. “We pulled up to a point knowing there was a few brushpiles up there and on my first cast I hooked into that big one.

“It took us a while to get it in the boat, but when Hunter netted it we all went crazy because we knew how big of a deal it was to catch one that size here.”

Sitting at the top of the leaderboard is where you want to be after Day 1, but neither team can get too comfortable with local favorites Jack Story and Roper Putnam of Clarks Hill High School sitting just behind them in third place with 13 pounds, 3 ounces.

The big fish of the day was a 7-14 caught by the Liberty County Anglers team of Connor Crawford and Brody Beam.

The full field of 248 teams will launch from Wildwood Park beginning at 6 a.m. ET and will return for weigh-in starting at 2 p.m. The field will be cut to the Top 12 teams following the Day 2 weigh-in.

River giant anchors Lachniet’s Bassmaster Open lead at the St. Lawrence River

Brian Carter

July 31, 2025

River giant anchors Lachniet’s Bassmaster Open lead at the St. Lawrence River

Virginia’s Ryan Lachniet has taken the lead on Day 1 of the St. Croix Bassmaster Open at St. Lawrence River presented by SEVIIN with a total of 26 pounds, 5 ounces.

Photo by Andy Crawford/B.A.S.S.

July 31, 2025

River giant anchors Lachniet’s Bassmaster Open lead at the St. Lawrence River

WADDINGTON, N.Y. — Ryan Lachniet might have added a few grey hairs to his otherwise dark brown beard, but after enduring the stress storm that a 7-pound, 5-ounce smallmouth unleashed, the Gum Spring, Va., pro leads Day 1 of the St. Croix Bassmaster Open at St. Lawrence River presented by SEVIIN.

Sacking up an opening limit of 26-5, Lachniet leads South Carolina’s Kyle Austin by a pound and 2 ounces.

“When I got that (big fish) next to the boat, after fighting him for a couple of minutes, I tried to scoop him and he slipped out of my hand,” Lachniet recalled. “I was like, ‘No, no, no, no, come back.

“He swam down and fought for another 30 seconds and I was like, ‘Oh my gosh. Oh my gosh, please don’t get off.’ When I grabbed him, I was like, ‘Wow, this thing is huge!’ It was a great day.”

Lachniet’s whopper smallie — his personal best — was particularly notable, given that the event’s tournament boundaries limit anglers to the river. Typically, St. Lawrence events that include Lake Ontario find the real studs coming from the easternmost of the Great Lakes.

“I would have had a good day without (the big fish),” Lachniet said. “I threw back a 4 and some high 3s, but it wouldn’t have had a day anything like that. I’m just super thankful. The Lord really blessed me with that one.”

Bagging such a moose well within the river showcased the incredible St. Lawrence fishery, largely regarded as North America’s premier smallmouth destination. Lachniet tapped into one particular area that ended up outperforming his expectations.

Lachniet said his main area comprised a mix of rock and sand in 6 to 10 feet. Locating this area last year, he caught a 6 3/4-pounder about 200 feet from where he caught his 7-5.

“It was incredible; I pulled up on my first spot and I only caught two 4-pounders there in practice, but it just went down,” Lachniet said. “I had 25 pounds in an hour and a half and after I got that 7, I was like, ‘Oh my gosh.’”

Lachniet said he ran about 3/4 of the way to the tournament’s western boundary, near the mouth of Lake Ontario and worked his way back downriver. Conventional wisdom says smallmouth favor calm, sunny conditions, but Day 1’s windy, overcast complexion did not seem to bother Lachniet.

“Honestly, I think it helped me because a lot of those fish were hard to catch in practice,” he said. “For some reason, almost every one I threw at this morning bit. It was great for a couple hours; they were all biting.

“I caught them all on a Megabass Vision 110 +1 jerkbait. That’s a terrifying way to land big smallmouth. When I was fighting that big one for a couple of minutes, it was stressful. But I got him in, so it was ok.”

Noting that he’ll give his key area another look on Day 2, Lachniet said he’ll do so with level-headed expectations.

“I definitely can’t do 26-5 again tomorrow, but I’ll just pull up there and see how it goes,” he said. “I’m hoping I can get around 20 off that spot and then just work my way (back toward the tournament site) the rest of the day.”

Catching a limit that went 25-3, Austin heads into Day 2 in second place. Working a long way from home, the Santee Cooper guide attributes his success to fishing like he does back home.

“I fished a lot of isolated boulders in 25 to 30 feet,” Austin said. “To me, it’s a lot like fishing highland reservoirs at home, or Santee where you’re fishing isolated cypress trees or brushpiles. I feel like that’s in my wheelhouse. That’s what I’ve done for years, even before (forward facing sonar).”

Austin started on a shallow spot in 8 to 9 feet and caught two of his limit fish. After that, he headed to an area dotted with those isolated boulders.

“It’s one big area of about 100 acres with lots of boulders out on the flats,” Austin said. “My LiveScope went out at 11 o’clock and smallmouth fishing for us southern guys is hard without that ’Scope.

“I went back shallow and actually caught a 5-pounder that really helped a lot. I caught all my fish on a drop shot with a Strike King Half Shell.”

Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series pro Kyoya Fujita is in third place with 25 pounds. Making the long run to the tournament’s western boundary, Fujita did most of his work along a trio of main river breaks that dropped from 12 feet to 18.

Hailing from Yamanishi, Japan, Fujita caught his fish on a drop shot rigged with a Jackall Yammy Fish in green pumpkin. Although he caught plenty of numbers, Fujita said quality catches were few and far between.

“It was very tough,” Fujita said. “I caught many 2-pound and 3-pound fish, but only one five 5-pounder. I caught one big fish in the morning and four in the afternoon.”

Lachniet is in the lead for Phoenix Boats Big Bass honors with his 7-5.

Lachniet leads the St. Croix Bassmaster Opens presented by SEVIIN Division 1 points standings with 760. Lucas Lindsay of Auburn, Ala., is in second with 740, followed by Tyler Campbell of Martin, Ga., with 728, Matt Adams of Guntersville, Ala., with 719 and Russ Lane of Prattville, Ala., with 717.

Friday’s takeoff is scheduled for 6 a.m. ET at Whitaker Park. The weigh-in will be held at the park at 2 p.m.

This event is being hosted by the St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce.

2025 St. Croix Bassmaster Open at St. Lawrence River presented by SEVIIN 7/31-8/2
St. Lawrence River, Waddington, NY.
(BOATER) Standings Day 1

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

1. Ryan Lachniet Gum Spring, VA 5 26-05 200
Day 1: 5 26-05
2. Kyle Austin Ridgeville, SC 5 25-03 199
Day 1: 5 25-03
3. Kyoya Fujita Yamanashi CA JAPAN 5 25-00 198
Day 1: 5 25-00
4. Caleb Hudson Lincolnton, GA 5 24-13 197
Day 1: 5 24-13
4. Alec Morrison Peru, NY 5 24-13 197
Day 1: 5 24-13
6. Zach Goutremout Chaumont, NY 5 24-10 195
Day 1: 5 24-10
7. Cory Johnston Otonabee CANADA 5 24-07 194
Day 1: 5 24-07
8. Evan Kung Pickering Ontario CANAD 5 24-03 193
Day 1: 5 24-03
9. Cody Pike Powhatan, VA 5 24-01 192
Day 1: 5 24-01
10. Parker Guy Appling, GA 5 24-00 191
Day 1: 5 24-00
11. Michael Neal Dayton, TN 5 23-14 190
Day 1: 5 23-14
12. Tommy Wood Peregian Springs AUSTRA 5 23-09 189
Day 1: 5 23-09
13. Dante Piraino Baldwinsville, NY 5 23-05 188
Day 1: 5 23-05
14. River Lee Diboll, TX 5 23-01 187
Day 1: 5 23-01
15. John Hunter Jr Shelbyville, KY 5 23-00 186
Day 1: 5 23-00
16. Tommy Dickerson Orange, TX 5 22-13 185
Day 1: 5 22-13
17. Byron Hill Clermont, FL 5 22-11 184
Day 1: 5 22-11
18. Bo Thomas Edwardsburg, MI 5 22-10 183
Day 1: 5 22-10
19. Erik Brztowski Lemont, IL 5 22-08 182
Day 1: 5 22-08
20. Tyler Campbell Martin, GA 5 22-07 181
Day 1: 5 22-07
21. Russ Lane Prattville, AL 5 22-06 180
Day 1: 5 22-06
22. Brandon McMillan Clewiston, FL 5 22-05 179
Day 1: 5 22-05
22. Evan White Roanoke Rapids, NC 5 22-05 179
Day 1: 5 22-05
24. Dylan Fogarty Mechanicsburg, PA 5 22-05 177
Day 1: 5 22-05
25. Jacob Thompkins Myrtle Beach, SC 5 22-02 176
Day 1: 5 22-02
26. Adam Howell Embrun CANADA 5 22-01 175
Day 1: 5 22-01
26. Bryson Osteen Live Oak, FL 5 22-01 175
Day 1: 5 22-01
28. Ryan Salzman Huntsville, AL 5 21-13 173
Day 1: 5 21-13
29. Sam Hanggi Knoxville, TN 5 21-12 172
Day 1: 5 21-12
30. Casey Smith Victor, NY 5 21-11 171
Day 1: 5 21-11
31. Lucas Lindsay Auburn , AL 5 21-10 170
Day 1: 5 21-10
32. Cole Drummond Effingham, SC 5 21-07 169
Day 1: 5 21-07
32. Chad Pipkens Dewitt, MI 5 21-07 169
Day 1: 5 21-07
34. Chase Clarke Virginia Beach, VA 5 21-07 167
Day 1: 5 21-07
35. Bardia Kamali Toronto CANADA 5 20-14 166
Day 1: 5 20-14
36. Chris Kingree Inverness, FL 5 20-13 165
Day 1: 5 20-13
36. Erik Luzak Fenelon Falls CANADA 5 20-13 165
Day 1: 5 20-13
36. Aaron Yavorsky Palm Harbor, FL 5 20-13 165
Day 1: 5 20-13
39. Connor Bell Lisbon, NY 5 20-10 162
Day 1: 5 20-10
40. Brennan Berglund Zimmerman, MN 5 20-09 161
Day 1: 5 20-09
40. Grae Buck Green Lane, PA 5 20-09 161
Day 1: 5 20-09
42. Lucas Murphy West Columbia, MI 5 20-09 159
Day 1: 5 20-09
43. Colden Baker Ridgeway, SC 5 20-08 158
Day 1: 5 20-08
43. Darold Gleason Leesville, LA 5 20-08 158
Day 1: 5 20-08
45. Matt Adams Guntersville, AL 5 20-07 156
Day 1: 5 20-07
45. Jonathon VanDam Gobles, MI 5 20-07 156
Day 1: 5 20-07
47. Shayne Berlo Mclean, VA 5 20-06 154
Day 1: 5 20-06
48. Lance Owen Greer, SC 5 20-05 153
Day 1: 5 20-05
49. John Duvall Madison, GA 5 20-04 152
Day 1: 5 20-04
50. Laker Howell Guntersville, AL 5 20-03 151
Day 1: 5 20-03
51. Dylan Akins Flowery Branch, GA 5 20-03 150
Day 1: 5 20-03
52. Matt Kelly Cambridge Ontario CANAD 5 20-02 149
Day 1: 5 20-02
52. Trey Schroeder Theodosia, MO 5 20-02 149
Day 1: 5 20-02
54. Liam Blake East Syracuse, NY 5 20-01 147
Day 1: 5 20-01
55. Connor Jacob Peoria, IL 5 19-15 146
Day 1: 5 19-15
56. Jesse Hilliard Delhi CANADA 5 19-14 145
Day 1: 5 19-14
57. Bobby Bakewell Orlando, FL 5 19-11 144
Day 1: 5 19-11
58. Ryan Broughman Corapeake, NC 5 19-09 143
Day 1: 5 19-09
59. Hayden Gaddis Dandridge, TN 5 19-07 142
Day 1: 5 19-07
60. Colt Blanton Piketon, OH 5 19-05 141
Day 1: 5 19-05
60. Christian Nash Allons, TN 5 19-05 141
Day 1: 5 19-05
62. Cliff Crochet Pierre Part, LA 5 19-04 139
Day 1: 5 19-04
63. Charlie Hartley Grove City, OH 5 19-04 138
Day 1: 5 19-04
64. Billy Gilbert Hamburg, NY 5 19-01 137
Day 1: 5 19-01
65. James Chandler Liberty, TX 5 19-00 136
Day 1: 5 19-00
66. Tristan McCormick Bon Aqua, TN 5 18-14 135
Day 1: 5 18-14
66. Tanner Visco Antioch, IL 5 18-14 135
Day 1: 5 18-14
68. Colin Deridder Freeport, MI 5 18-12 133
Day 1: 5 18-12
68. Rich Ortiz Fort Ann, NY 5 18-12 133
Day 1: 5 18-12
70. Josh Gauthier Petawawa CANADA 5 18-10 131
Day 1: 5 18-10
70. Micheal Stout Gallatin, TN 5 18-10 131
Day 1: 5 18-10
72. Cass Terrance Akwewsane, NY 5 18-09 129
Day 1: 5 18-09
73. Eric Stecker Quakertown, PA 5 18-08 128
Day 1: 5 18-08
74. Trey Swindle Cleveland, AL 5 18-08 127
Day 1: 5 18-08
75. Cliff Prince Palatka, FL 5 18-07 126
Day 1: 5 18-07
76. Tyler Shawger Zanesville, OH 5 18-05 125
Day 1: 5 18-05
76. Mikey Weems Hull, TX 5 18-05 125
Day 1: 5 18-05
78. Jeremy Sadowski Voluntown, CT 5 18-05 123
Day 1: 5 18-05
79. Adam Rasmussen Sturgeon Bay, WI 5 18-04 122
Day 1: 5 18-04
80. Derrick Sadlowski Monaca, PA 5 18-04 121
Day 1: 5 18-04
81. Brett Hite Phoenix, AZ 5 18-02 120
Day 1: 5 18-02
82. Luke Plunkett Pinson, AL 5 18-02 119
Day 1: 5 18-02
83. Buddy Benson Dahlonega, GA 5 17-14 118
Day 1: 5 17-14
83. Yukihiro Sawamura Harker Heights, TX 5 17-14 118
Day 1: 5 17-14
85. Brandon Coulter Knoxville, TN 5 17-13 116
Day 1: 5 17-13
85. Logan Parks Auburn, AL 5 17-13 116
Day 1: 5 17-13
87. Chris Blanchette Edisto Island, SC 5 17-12 114
Day 1: 5 17-12
88. Tanner Hadden Appling, GA 5 17-11 113
Day 1: 5 17-11
89. Michael Spaulding Jr. Dundee, MI 5 17-08 112
Day 1: 5 17-08
90. Joshua Weaver Macon, GA 5 17-05 111
Day 1: 5 17-05
91. William Kronander Brownsville, PA 5 17-03 110
Day 1: 5 17-03
92. Brady Vernon Sterrett, AL 5 17-02 109
Day 1: 5 17-02
93. Kristine Fischer Spring City, TN 5 16-13 108
Day 1: 5 16-13
94. Mike McClelland Blue Eye, MO 5 16-12 107
Day 1: 5 16-12
94. Matt Messer Warfield, KY 5 16-12 107
Day 1: 5 16-12
96. Donavan Carson Bluff City, TN 5 16-11 105
Day 1: 5 16-11
97. Lucas Toliver Paw Paw, MI 5 16-10 104
Day 1: 5 16-10
97. Wyatt Wisian Ardmore, OK 5 16-10 104
Day 1: 5 16-10
99. Dillon Falardeau Hixson, TN 5 16-09 102
Day 1: 5 16-09
100. Byron Kenney Jr Monticello, GA 5 16-08 101
Day 1: 5 16-08
101. Tyler Conde Chepachet, RI 5 16-04 100
Day 1: 5 16-04
102. Cody Ross Livingston, TX 5 15-14 99
Day 1: 5 15-14
103. Brooks Anderson Marietta, GA 5 15-12 98
Day 1: 5 15-12
103. Freddy Palmer Estill Springs, TN 5 15-12 98
Day 1: 5 15-12
105. Troy Coney Owego, NY 5 15-11 96
Day 1: 5 15-11
106. Tyler Malone Chunchula, AL 5 15-05 95
Day 1: 5 15-05
107. Josh Bragg Fayetteville, GA 5 15-05 94
Day 1: 5 15-05
108. Phil Kroll Otego, NY 5 15-03 93
Day 1: 5 15-03
108. Dylan Welton Middleville, MI 5 15-03 93
Day 1: 5 15-03
110. Kyle Weisenburger Columbus Grv, OH 5 15-01 91
Day 1: 5 15-01
111. Brayden Rakes Winston Salem, NC 5 15-01 90
Day 1: 5 15-01
112. Kristian Johnson Belvidere, NJ 5 14-15 89
Day 1: 5 14-15
112. Tyler Lubbat Wheeling, IL 5 14-15 89
Day 1: 5 14-15
114. Stephen Browning Hot Springs, AR 5 14-10 87
Day 1: 5 14-10
114. Julius Mazy Phoenix, AZ 5 14-10 87
Day 1: 5 14-10
116. Cody Detweiler Guntersville, AL 5 14-09 85
Day 1: 5 14-09
117. Duke Nave Oxford, PA 5 14-08 84
Day 1: 5 14-08
118. Ryan Michl Newton, IL 5 13-14 83
Day 1: 5 13-14
119. Blaine Bunney Claremore, OK 5 13-09 82
Day 1: 5 13-09
120. Woo Daves Spring Grove, VA 5 13-05 81
Day 1: 5 13-05
121. Alex Wetherell Middletown, CT 5 13-04 80
Day 1: 5 13-04
122. Tommy Dunaway Havana, FL 5 13-00 79
Day 1: 5 13-00
123. Nick Mandes North Stonington, CT 5 12-15 78
Day 1: 5 12-15
124. Johnathan Crossland Chapin, SC 5 12-11 77
Day 1: 5 12-11
125. Parker Mott Winter Garden, FL 5 12-10 76
Day 1: 5 12-10
126. Cody Stahl Barnsville, GA 5 12-03 75
Day 1: 5 12-03
127. Clint Leonard Jr Saint Cloud, FL 5 12-02 74
Day 1: 5 12-02
128. Easton Lindus Woodville, WI 5 11-14 73
Day 1: 5 11-14
129. Hunter Eubanks Landrum , SC 5 11-08 72
Day 1: 5 11-08
130. Rick Greene Ocala, FL 4 11-03 71
Day 1: 4 11-03
131. Anastasia Patterson Sumter, SC 5 10-10 70
Day 1: 5 10-10
132. Chris Lighthizer Zanesville, OH 5 10-01 69
Day 1: 5 10-01
133. Mark Guhne Hixson, TN 5 09-14 68
Day 1: 5 09-14
134. Chris McCarthy Woonsocket, RI 5 09-01 67
Day 1: 5 09-01
135. Anthony Garcia Los Angeles, CA 4 09-00 66
Day 1: 4 09-00
136. Dave Miller Stratford, CT 5 07-00 65
Day 1: 5 07-00
137. Paul Bouvier Kingston CANADA 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
137. Jason Carpenter Castle Pines, CO 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
137. Kyle Healey Almonte CANADA 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
137. Teb Jones Yalaha, MS 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
137. TJ McKenzie Georgetown, SC 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
137. Mike Penney Cameron, NC 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
137. John Pollard Eclectic, AL 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
137. Angel Rosario Kalamazoo, MI 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
137. Manny Sciberras Liberty Twp, OH 0 00-00 0
Day 1: 0 00-00
———————————————————————–
Totals
Day #Limits #Fish Weight
1 134 678 2508-11
———————————-
134 678 2508-11

August 1st Newsletter

On The LIne

Brian Carter

July 31, 2025

Does Health Play a Role in Bass Fishing? by Calvin Herndon

There is a stigma in fishing that there is not much that goes into fishing on the physical side of things. I would like to tell everyone that is so far from the truth. In this article I would like to break down why it is important to stay health while you are on the water.

Let’s start by explaining what happens to angler on a day of fishing. Bass fishermen are notorious for having to get up super early, so sleep is important to have the energy and the mental toughness to make decision on the fly. If you every get to hang around anyone that fishes in a competitive trail you will notice that they never stay out late and they priories their sleep. Bass Fishing can sometimes be an emotional sport with lack of sleep it can make people more irritable and emotional potential effecting interactions with others. Do you think it is important for Bass Fishermen to have a well-balanced diet?

If you answered yes to the question above you would be correct. A well-balanced diet is vital for fishermen because it helps them sustain energy level all day long. Long days on the water can deplete energy reserves. It is important for anglers to eat complex carbohydrates found in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables they provide a steady release of energy, preventing crashes and maintaining stamina throughout the day. Your diet can also affect your focus and concentration. Mental sharpness is crucial for making strategic decisions, casting accuracy, and detecting subtle bites. A balanced diet, rich in nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids, supports cognitive functioning and reduces mental fatigue. Lastly a well-balanced improves recovery and reduces muscle soreness. Repetitive casting, reeling, and battling fish can lead to muscle fatigue and soreness. Adequate protein intake, especially from sources like fish, aids in muscle repair and recovery, preparing the body for subsequent fishing sessions. Should bass fishermen have a workout routine?

The answer to the above question is yes. It is important for angler to have a workout routine that is based around strength, balance, flexibility, and endurance can improve physical performance on the water, reduce the risk of injuries, and enhancing overall enjoyment of the sport. It is important to remember that bass fishing can be taxing on the body so staying in shape is important for the long day on the water and fighting big bass at the side of the boat. Or standing at the front of the boat getting tossed around by the waves. It is also important to do some sort of mobility training every day for like 10 minutes a day.

Are we having too many night tournaments? by Carson Maddux

The muggiest time of year is here as August appeared seemingly out of nowhere. Temperatures and humidity are high and for most, bass fishing morale is low. Almost every major tournament trail shifts their focus to the northern states in smallmouth country. Our southern impoundments however tend to lean to local pot tournaments and night tournaments. Night tournaments are a major part of the sport’s culture, fueling competition and camaraderie. But as summer temperatures rise, more and more events shift into the night hours. While night tournaments offer relief from the heat and often better fishing conditions, an overload of them, especially on pressured lakes—can quietly damage both fish populations and the overall fishing experience.

Bass are more vulnerable to stress during summer due to higher water temperatures and lower dissolved oxygen levels. At night, surface temps may drop slightly, but deep water often stays warm, and oxygen levels remain low. I am not a fish biologist so I am not writing upon true scientific research, but I have noticed a surplus of dead fish at ramps after an evening derby. Dead fish happen, especially in the summer. Fish mortality is not necessarily a bad thing when done properly, but lakes with an already increase of pressure do not need tournaments every night.

I used to fish a lot of night tournaments and still do from time to time. They can be a fun way to scratch that competitive itch in an otherwise slow season for tournaments. I am not advocating for this pastime to go away completely, but I do think anglers should recognize the potential risks of overdoing it. Where I in Central Alabama, I can get to half a dozen lakes within an hour. Each one of these lakes will have at least 4 night tournaments a week, every week. Even if more of the participants were trained in fish care, there will still be an enormous amount of pressure on these fisheries. The fish are hammered day and night 365 days of the year. I feel like we could do a better job organizing these tournaments and keeping the sheer volume of them to a minimum.

In addition to increased conservation efforts, we should also be more careful when fishing at night. While most fishermen spend a ton of time on the water, the casual boater may not be. Summer nights often find reckless boaters, many who should not be driving in the first place, and accidents become regular. Not only this, but debris from the busy weekend can be floating out of eyesight which can damage your vessel or hurt yourself. More traffic on the lake at nights creates more opportunities for this to happen. If you plan on fishing night tournaments this summer, be mindful of your surroundings and encourage your competitors to do the same!

The Best Kept Secret:
Learning to Be the Best
Bruce Callis Jr

I have spent well over 50 years searching for that perfect fishing catching method. And I have tried a lot of different baits, lines, reels, fish finders, and boats. I have dedicated untold hours on the water and on the bank. I have watched countless podcasts and videos in my search. And I think I have found the answer to the burning question of what to use.
Without a doubt, the human mind is the most important tool we have. There was a funny saying years ago, and while it was meant to help keeps kids off drugs, it is the same thing about bass fishing. “A Mind is a Terrible Thing to Waste!” And its still true about everything in life.
When I started on my life as an angler, I soaked up all the information I could. But unlike today, we didn’t have the internet to help us. I listened to professional anglers at fishing shows, I listened to local anglers who had been fishing for years, and I soaked up the magazines content. Bassmaster, Outdoor Life, and anything else I could find. As a Boy Scout, we started a Youth BASS Club. We had speakers come talk to us. I soaked it all up.
And today, I still soak up all the information I can. I want to be the best I can be. This doesn’t make me smarter than anyone else. This just means I am always trying to get better. Do I think I can outfish anyone, heck yeah. I believe in what information I have stored in my mind. Does it mean I can beat everyone? Heck no. On any given day, anybody can catch them. Why else does the best lose!
But the best thing to use to catch bass is your mind. Learn everything you can, put into play what you have learned, and never stop wanting to learn more. I go fishing with many other anglers and I always learn something on every outing. They don’t have to that Elite Pro for me to learn from. I have been with a few beginners who have taught me something. They did something I would never do, but they didn’t know better and caught bass.
One thing I have really learned took me years to figure out, and some people just don’t understand it. We can always improve what we do. And when we realize that fishing is all about having fun, and that winning isn’t the goal. Yes, I love to win. I believe I can win any tournament I enter. I believe I can beat anyone, head-to-head. If I didn’t believe in myself, I wouldn’t be doing it. But if I don’t have fun, I am missing out on everything.
I fished an online tournament, and the first day I had great luck while others struggled and had nothing. I knew I could keep my mouth shut and run away with the win, but, I also love to share my knowledge. I shared some information that helped others make some catches. Yes, I lost by a 1/4 inch on big bass. But I knew I had won because I helped teach others.
The greatest tool for catching bass is you and your mind. Soak in everything. Learn something every time you go fishing. Listen to others, soak it up, and don’t try to be them, make the information fit you and your style. Learning new techniques will help you become a more rounded angler, but each of us have something we really love to do. Refine that skill, but don’t skip learning. You just may find a special way to do something are already doing. Use your mind to soak up everything and make it work for you. A mind should never be wasted!

Jake Lewis-Roger Rhodes Win CATT James River with 21.36 lbs

Brian Carter

July 31, 2025

Jake Lewis-Roger Rhodes Win CATT James River with 21.36 lbs

Yesterday we had 46 teams blast off from Osbourne landing with 26 teams entered into the $50 Side Pot. Between rain, heat, and a month of tournaments on the river, the James River show cased why we have 1 of the best fisheries of the region. The morning started out not as hot but definitely humid then around 12 that’s when she got hot with minimal cloud cover. A decent number of teams took advantage of the scales being open along with the ice water.

I’d like to give a personal thank you to Jacob Kupselaitus. Bro, I threw this on you last moment literally the day before the event and you had no issue donating a rod to raise funds for the Tyrcha family and their cause. We raised $250 and I can’t say thank you enough to everyone that threw in. Congrats to Mikey Oley on winning the custom-built rod bro!

Also thank you to KL Davis for supplying us with 4 cases if water and ice! We all enjoyed that sir!

CONGRATULATIONS TO EVERYONE WHO PLACED!

1st place with 21.36lbs anchored by the events Big Fish a beautiful 7.31lbs James River tank is the teams of Jake Lewis and Roger Rhodes. These fellas also capitalized on a 3rd payday taking home 1st place in the Side Pot. Very well-deserved guys and solid performance ’s!

2nd place with 20.81lbs anchored by a 4.81lbs toad goes to the team of Jared Williams and Guy Fairweather. They also capitalized on an extra payday with taking home 2nd in the Side Pot. Another set of ’s, congratulations to you both.

3rd place with 19.93lbs accompanied by a 6.85lbs green beast is the team of Nick Passalacqua and Nathan Seymour. Awesome job boys that was pretty work!

4th place with 17.07lbs goes to Wes Zabdyr and Mike Elswick. Pretty bag guys!

5th place with 16.70lbs taking home the 3rd place Side Pot award went to the team of Michael McCrickard and Tev Rollins. They also weighed in a 5.59lbs tank to add to their bag. Solid work boys!

6th place with 16.11lbs is the team of Sam Pollock and Richard Williams. Good job!

7th place with 15.75lbs anchored by a 4.56lbs toad goes to Brian Brooks and Avery Powelson.

8th place with 15.66lbs goes to Ryan Grattan and Danny Grattan.

9th place went to Rob Uzzle who weighed in 15.23lbs.

Our next events September 13th out of Osborne.

Team	BF	Weight	Winnings	Points
Jake Lewis-Roger Rhodes	7.31	21.36	$2,795.00	110
Jared Williams-Guy Fairweather	4.81	20.81	$1,280.00	109
Nick Passaacqua-Nathan Seymour	6.85	19.93	$525.00	108
Wes Zabdyr-Mike Elswick	0.00	17.07	$400.00	107
Michael McCrickard-Tev Rollins	5.59	16.70	$500.00	106
Sam Pollock-Richard Williams	0.00	16.11	$225.00	105
Brian Brooks-Avery Powelson	4.56	15.75	$180.00	104
Ryan-Danny Gratton	0.00	15.66	$140.00	104
Rob Uzzle	3.33	15.37	$120.00	102
Ryan-Wayne Drewery	0.00	14.11		101
Jeff Valentine-Moose Wells	4.25	14.01		100
Marshall Johnson-Daniel Colgin	0.00	13.75		99
Harvey Reece-Anthony Weithers	0.00	13.42		98
Howard Austin	0.00	13.33		97
Michael Nate Owen	0.00	13.28		96
Mark Austin- Alex Crosby	4.94	13.21		95
Dustin Burket-Jay Griffon	0.00	13.08		94
Joey Cooke- Justin Hall	0.00	12.92		93
Jacob Moore	0.00	12.82		92
Curtis-Cj Combs	0.00	12.48		91
Eric Picucci-Micah Mitten	0.00	12.45		90
Jamie Nealy-Greg Ball	0.00	12.44		89
Brandon Coffey-Bubba Whitehurst	0.00	12.33		88
Tripp-Morgan Mistr	3.30	11.71		87
Jake-Jesse Kidd	0.00	11.36		86
Clay Lewis-Greg Cooper	0.00	11.12		85
Tom Foster-David Gardner	0.00	10.98		84
James-Blake Coundrey	0.00	10.87		83
Tim Chaffin-Trey Goodman	0.00	10.73		82
Dave Carney-John Dunn	4.05	10.67		81
Don Warren-Chuck	0.00	10.28		80
Parish Malone-Kevin Charity	0.00	9.82		79
Charles Ramer-Ernest Revels	0.00	9.75		78
Ralph Taylor-BIll Butler	0.00	9.74		77
Stacy Vassar-Kevin Davis	0.00	9.60		76
Rick Barnhardt-Danny Sage	0.00	9.43		75
Ron Studer-Mark Adams	0.00	9.33		74
Tom Owens-Jim Palazzo	0.00	9.32		73
Jacob-Joesph Kupselaitis	0.00	9.31		72
Ben Knapp-Jeff Reed	0.00	8.50		71
Edward Jordan Sr-Jr	0.00	8.16		70
Blake-Dylan Hendrick	0.00	8.05		69
Michael-Bobby Henderson	0.00	7.64		68
James Byrd-Michael Kyle	0.00	4.91		67
Mike Dance-Tom Skinner	0.00	0.00		57
Travis Heath-Jamie Hendrick	0.00	0.00		57
Total Entrys			$5,850.00
BONUS $			$1,300.00
Total Paid At Ramp			$6,165.00
CATT			$50.00
2025 James River Spring Final Fund			$365.00
2025 CATT Championship Fund			$50.00
2025 James River Spring Final Fund Total			$2,220.00

Big smallmouth await Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series field at Lake St. Clair

Brian Carter

July 31, 2025

Big smallmouth await Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series field at Lake St. Clair

Macomb County, Mich., will host the Yokohama Tire Bassmaster Elite at Lake St. Clair Aug. 7-10.

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

July 31, 2025

MACOMB COUNTY, Mich. — Summer is in full swing in southern Michigan, which means the smallmouth are starting to feed up just in time for the 2025 Yokohama Tire Bassmaster Elite at Lake St. Clair according to Michigan native Aaron Jagdfeld.

“We had a late spring, so everything has been a little behind. But the last week or two, these bass are swinging into summer patterns and a lot more fish are getting grouped up,” said the St. Croix Bassmaster Opens presented by SEVIIN angler. “They are getting fatter, and it should set up really well for the tournament.

Elite_eventLogo_2025_LakeStClair_Vector REV 1.png

“It would surprise me if someone put together a total somewhere in the high 90s and close to the 100-pound mark.”

Tournament days are scheduled for Aug. 7-10 with tournament headquarters located at Brandenburg Park in New Baltimore, Mich. The 101-boat field will launch at 7 a.m. ET each day and return for weigh-in beginning at 3 p.m. The field will be cut to the Top 50 anglers after the Day 2 weigh-in, and the Top 10 anglers after the third competition day will compete on Championship Sunday.

The winner earns the $100,000 first-place prize and a coveted blue trophy.

“We’re excited to welcome the Elite Series back to one of the best bass fishing lakes on the planet — Lake St. Clair,” said Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel. “We’re ready to shine the spotlight once again on our incredible freshwater asset to demonstrate that we’ve got a world-class fishery right here in Macomb County. So thank you to all involved for their efforts in making this event possible, and best of luck to all the visiting anglers. I look forward to another successful tournament.”

Executive Director of the Detroit Sports Commission Marty Dobek added, “For nearly 25 years, the Detroit Sports Commission has worked to showcase the diversity of events and caliber of competition that Southeast Michigan has to offer. The Bassmaster Elite is a fantastic way to highlight our region’s unique outdoor assets and reaffirm Southeast Michigan as a premier destination for world-class sporting events.”

The Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series event will be held in conjunction with the Cheers to Chesterfield Festival, which will allow fans to enjoy a number of different activities and events before and after daily weigh-ins.

“We’re ready to bring the best of the best in bass fishing back to the shoreline of beautiful Anchor Bay,” said Chesterfield Township Supervisor Bradley Kersten. “The Bassmaster Elite Series is returning to Chesterfield Township and will be part of the Cheers to Chesterfield Festival at Brandenburg Park from August 7-10. It’s an incredible honor to have the nation’s eyes on Lake St. Clair and Macomb County once again. Beyond the excitement of the tournament, the festival will be packed with family fun — delicious food, live music, a kids zone and Friday night fireworks. So come for the bass, stay for the fun — because Chesterfield is the place to be!”

An angler favorite, Lake St. Clair is one of the best smallmouth fisheries in the country and has been a recurring destination for the Bassmaster Tournament Trails. Last year, the St. Croix Bassmaster Opens presented by SEVIIN was held on St. Clair in July, and Elite Series pro Jay Przekurat won with over 75 pounds in the three-day tournament.

Jagdfeld has fished several tournaments on St. Clair this July, including wins at the Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier presented by Lowrance that launched out of Monroe, Mich., and a BFL that launched out of the Detroit River.

In his last couple of weeks fishing there, the 24-year-old has seen more and more smallmouth move into their summer patterns. Void of structure, smallmouth in St. Clair tend to roam and hang around areas with hard sand and vegetation. Perch grass and cabbage are the predominant offshore grasses in the lake, and smallmouth will use both depending on the area of the lake.

Anchor Bay will be one of the most popular areas on the lake, as it was during the 2024 Bassmaster Open and an Elite Series event held here in 2023. Mitchell’s Bay sets up similarly to Anchor, and the smallies living in those two zones will likely be set up in 8 to 12 feet of water.

“Those fish get a lot of pressure. So it will be interesting to see how the guys adjust to that,” Jagdfeld said. “I can see half of the field ending up there, but if it is going to get won in there, it will be someone who is able to get away from other boats and adjust day by day.”

While plenty of healthy limits will be caught out of the Anchor Bay area, Jagdfeld believes someone who can unlock the bite in the deeper waters of the main lake could have the upper hand. Those bass tend to group up in 17 to 19 feet of water, and perch are the key forage.

“I think Canada will be a big player,” the Adrian College grad said. “Joey (Cifuentes) was the only one to figure it out and get away from anyone (during the 2023 Elite event), and if someone can do that this time, that is a ticket to winning this tournament.”

Due to higher water levels, the Detroit and St. Clair rivers have not made a meaningful impact in Bassmaster tournaments the last several years. That could change this go-round though, Jagdfeld said, as the river levels are back to normal and even dropping.

“It seems like the fish are rejuvenated there,” Jagdfeld said. “They are setting up on new areas and current breaks this year. The rivers have been fishing really well, and I can see those playing as well.”

Parts of Lake Erie and Lake Huron will also be in play this week, but Jagdfeld does not see those lakes producing any better than St. Clair.

“If you go to Erie and Huron, it is going to be more traditional smallmouth fishing with boulders and rocks,” he explained. “There are guys that prefer to do that, but it would be a long shot for one of them to play, especially since Erie has been fishing tough.”

A drop shot and a jighead minnow setup will be the primary presentations in this tournament, but Jagdfeld said he could see a Neko rig, mini jig, tube and a jerkbait coming into play as well.

After seven events, Przekurat leads the Progressive Bassmaster Angler of the Year race with 599 points followed by Canadian pro and 2024 Angler of the Year Chris Johnston in second with 596 points. Illinois pro Trey McKinney is third with 586 points, South Carolina’s Patrick Walters is fourth with 554 points and Indiana’s Bill Lowen is fifth with 548 points. Japan’s Kyoya Fujita, Alabama’s Will Davis Jr., Japan’s Taku Ito, North Carolina’s Shane LeHew and Georgia’s Paul Marks round out the Top 10.

Marks leads the Dakota Lithium Bassmster Rookie of the Year race with 515 points, while Alabama’s Tucker Smith sits in second with 452 points, and Minnesota’s Easton Fothergill is third with 436 points.

Live coverage of the Yokohama Tire Bassmaster Elite at Lake St. Clair will be available on Bassmaster.com Thursday and Friday beginning at 8 a.m. ET and running until 3 p.m. Roku will have coverage on Thursday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and Noon to 3 p.m. Coverage on Saturday and Sunday will be available on FS1 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. before moving to Bassmaster.com from Noon to 3 p.m.

The Yokohama Tire Bassmaster Elite at Lake St. Clair is being hosted by the D etroit Sports Commission.

Bass Fishing in Hot Weather!

Brian Carter

July 31, 2025

During the early morning hours, bass often move into shallow flats near deeper water, taking advantage of the low light and cooler temperatures. Flats with vegetation, isolated stumps, or rock cover provide ideal feeding zones during this brief window. Anglers can use soft plastics rigged weightless to glide across the surface and draw attention from aggressive feeders. A steady retrieve with occasional pauses or quick twitches can mimic vulnerable prey and trigger explosive surface strikes. It’s essential to fan cast in different directions to fully cover the area and locate active fish. Once the sun begins to rise, expect the bite to slow as bass retreat to nearby deeper areas or shaded cover. Staying mobile during this time can help you stay on top of fish that are actively feeding across a broad flat. Pay attention to subtle clues like surface disturbance or bird activity, which often indicate baitfish presence. If a particular section of the flat produces multiple strikes, work it more thoroughly before moving on. Soft plastics that mimic natural forage allow for longer, more convincing presentations without spooking fish in calm morning conditions. This is one of the most productive periods of the day, so capitalizing on it with efficient casting and strategic movement is key to landing more bass.Our Fresh HellaMite is designed to imitate a major aquatic food source, delivering a realistic profile of an insect larva that fish can’t resist. Each is scented for complete and total attraction underwater along with being made in the USA by real fishermen just like you. We’ve recently dropped a new HellaMite Pro Pack that is loaded with 60 total baits in all six proven colors, plus three Owner Block Head Ned Jigs and a handy storage bag. This kit has everything you need to stay rigged and ready year-round. Grab our newest Lil Bass, Hot Sauce, MidNight, Glow, 10w30 Synthetic, Slimer Green, and Barbie Pink HellaMite colors. We’ve also recently restocked our popular Smoke Purple HellaMite. The HellaMite’s solid body and hyperactive ribbed tail design produce a life-like quivering action with every twitch of the rod. Its unique flat underbelly detail enables this bait to be fished as a drop shot, Ned rig, neko rig, and even a small Carolina-rig, making it the ideal bait in any condition year-round. When the water is clear, the fish can see the bait and look like real food, causing strikes. Each cast becomes an opportunity for an exhilarating catch, thanks to its superior performance and versatility.

As morning progresses and light levels increase, bass tend to become less aggressive and are less likely to chase fast-moving presentations. This is the time to slow down and use weightless soft plastics to entice more finicky fish. Letting these baits flutter naturally and fall through the water column can provoke bites from bass holding just below the surface or along submerged vegetation. Working the bait slowly with short twitches and long pauses increases your chances of a subtle strike. This finesse approach becomes especially valuable when you’re still in productive areas but the action suddenly dies down. Patience and precision become your greatest tools during this transition period. It’s important to watch your line closely, as bites during this time are often soft and easy to miss. Downsizing your bait or switching to a more natural color can also make a big difference. If you’re fishing near cover, let the bait rest longer in key spots before moving it. Soft plastics that suspend or fall slowly are ideal for coaxing neutral bass into biting. This may not produce fast action, but it often rewards a more thoughtful approach.We use our Fresh Scorpion because it closely imitates a crawfish. Our newest 10w30 Synthetic, Slimer Green, and Barbie Pink Scorpion colors work wonders. The Scorpion is a revolutionary new look to soft plastics. Its intricate detailing and texture mimic the nuances of a real crawfish, making it hard for bass to resist. Of course, water clarity always plays a role in color selection but in any season, you can’t miss using colors such as Green Pumpkin Seed, Brown Bark, and the Magneto. This bait not only appears natural to fish but gives them something to become curious about. The Scorpion paired with a stand-up jig is deadly because the jig actually sits the bait upright in a defensive stance. The subtle color variations across the bait further enhance its appeal, mimicking the natural color shifts found in live prey. Each Fresh Scorpion has a unique and exclusive 3-axis tail design that is engineered like no other soft plastic bait. Our Scorpions are made by anglers from high-grade non-salt plastic to provide superior life-like action that triggers strikes!

Once the sun is fully up, bass commonly leave shallow feeding areas and stage along outer weed lines, deeper flats, or structure near creek channels. Fishing these areas effectively means using techniques that can reach and probe deeper water. Soft plastics rigged on a heavier weight can be used to target bass along bottom contours and vegetation edges. Focus on dragging or hopping the bait along drop-offs or the base of deeper points, mimicking prey that’s naturally moving or hiding. Ripping the bait free from light snag points can create reaction bites due to the sudden movement. This is a key time in the day when location and depth adjustments are just as important as lure selection. Using electronics or a depth finder can help you locate promising features like ledges or underwater humps. Bass often group up in these deeper areas, so once you find one, more are likely nearby. Maintain a slow presentation to thoroughly work the zone and draw out hesitant fish. Cloud cover or wind can occasionally pull bass slightly shallower, so remain flexible and observe changing conditions. By staying tuned in to depth changes and bait behavior, you’ll be more likely to stay on fish.The new FreshBaitz Lizards deliver a realistic profile that excels in both power and finesse techniques. Act fast, we’ve recently just released new Hot Sauce, MidNight, Ghost, and 10w30 Synthetic Lizard designs! The unique forward-facing leg design creates drag that holds it in the strike zone longer or produces wild flapping action with every pull of the rod. Additionally, its slightly ribbed solid body and large head hold your hook in place and provide much better weedless performance making it the ideal bait to use in any condition. Water clarity always plays a super big role in color selection but in any season year-round, you can’t miss when using colors such as Watermelon Red, Black & Blue, or Green Pumpkin. Its flexible tail design ensures added movement, tempting even the most cautious fish. The superior 5.5-inch profile stretches to a whole 7 inches which is perfect for predatory fish including bass year round. Made from long-lasting durable high-grade non-salted plastic for total and maximum attention-grabbing action underwater.

Not all bass head to deep water as temperatures rise. Some stay shallow by holding tight to shade and cover. Look for areas with docks, submerged wood, or heavy weeds where bass feel protected and can ambush prey. Skipping soft plastics underneath docks or alongside boats can be an excellent way to reach hidden fish. When fishing matted vegetation, use lightweight plastics that can slide across or just beneath the surface, pausing in any small openings. Approach each piece of cover methodically, starting on the outside edges before working deeper in to avoid spooking fish. Shallow cover offers consistent ambush opportunities throughout the day, especially when overhead sun drives bass into these shaded sanctuaries. Pay attention to how bass are positioned relative to the cover. Some may suspend just under the surface, while others sit tight to the bottom. When bites are tough to detect, watch your line carefully for subtle movement or slack. A precise cast and quiet presentation can make all the difference in clear or pressured water. Don’t overlook small or isolated pieces of cover. These often hold aggressive fish that are easier to catch. If one shallow pattern isn’t working, rotate between skipping, pitching, and swimming your bait to trigger a response.Our Fresh Beetle delivers ultimate versatility in a soft plastic bait. Its slim yet wide body design and four claws are engineered to naturally glide and wobble as it moves through the water. This design ensures they remain enticingly active longer than conventional baits. Its unique texture also provides a realistic feel, making bass hold on longer once they bite. Water clarity plays a big role in color selection but year-round you can’t miss when using go-to colors such as Chocolate Mint, Ox Blood, or 10w30 Synthetic beetles. The hyper-active swimming claws are designed thin with long-lasting durable non-salt plastic to make them come alive with the slightest movement. The Fresh Beetle offers an enticing 4-inch profile and is scented for complete and total attraction! You can rig these Beetles as a Jig/ Chatter Trailer, Flippin/ Punching, Texas Rig, Swing Jig, and Carolina Rig. Making the beetle beyond perfect in any weather condition year-round!

When bass bury themselves in thick matted vegetation during the heat of the day, standard surface tactics often fall short. Punching involves using a compact, streamlined soft plastic bait paired with a heavy weight to break through the canopy. This lets you reach fish that are otherwise inaccessible, where the water is cooler and more oxygen-rich. Bass will strike just as the bait breaks through, or shortly after it settles on the bottom. Because visibility is low and feel is limited in these situations, it’s crucial to watch your line closely for signs of movement. Punching is a specialized technique, but when done correctly, it can yield some of the biggest and most aggressive bites of the day. Make sure your tackle is strong enough to handle the heavy vegetation and powerful hooksets required for this approach. Controlled pitches with quiet entries help minimize disturbance and keep the fish from spooking. Once the bait reaches bottom, give it a couple of subtle hops before retrieving and making another pitch. Target isolated holes in the mat or spots where vegetation is slightly thinner for higher punch-through success. This method may take some practice, but it’s one of the most effective ways to reach bass holding tight in heavy cover.Using a stick-styled worm is the most tried and true ways to catch fish. We have a variety of 5-inch Worms to choose from but we just added MidNight, Glow, and Ghost Worms! Our popular Watermelon Red Worms have been restocked as well. You can also experience our new wacky rigging kit while it’s ON SALE! The WACKY Pack offers our most popular colors and essential tools for wacky rigging. If you’re fast enough you might be able to grab the limited-release Pumpkin Spice Worm before it’s completely sold out along with some of our newest colors including the Brown Worm, Electric Chicken Worm, and Goby Wan Worm colors. The high-grade non-salt plastic they’re made from provides positive buoyancy and it even floats underwater! We also released new 6-inch Worms including Charmeleon, Rainbow TRT, Bone, Chocolate Mint, and Fire TGR — all available in 5 and 6-inch. We’ve also recently released new 8-count packs of worms available in Watermelon Red, Black & Blue, and Green Pumpkin. We also offer worms that have the unique ability to shift from one color to another. Scented for total attraction underwater.

When summer heat drives bass to deeper water, targeting structure like rock piles, ledges, or humps becomes essential. Use soft plastic imitations that can be rigged to crawl along the bottom and imitate natural forage. The key is to make contact with the structure, allowing your bait to deflect, bump, or pause near changes in bottom composition. Bass in these zones are often more stable and predictable, making this a great strategy for mid-day fishing. Vary your retrieve from slow drags to short hops to see what triggers a bite. Deep water may seem intimidating, but it often holds more consistent action once you dial in the depth and presentation. Pay attention to your sonar or depth finder to locate subtle depth changes and isolated structure that can concentrate fish. In clearer lakes, bass may suspend slightly above the structure, so adjust your bait accordingly to stay within the strike zone. Wind and current can also play a role, positioning bass on the down-current side of humps or ledges. Don’t be afraid to return to productive deep spots multiple times a day, especially if baitfish are present. By focusing on these key areas, you can turn slow periods into steady success.Our newest FreshBaitz Mandingo Trick Worm is the ultimate game-changer for anglers with a passion! Engineered for the angler who knows SIZE does matter, this lure is designed to attract only the BIGGEST bass with a penchant for the larger bait. The Mandingo Trick Worm boasts a solid 7-inch body enhanced with a hyperactive ribbed design, ensuring irresistible mouth-watering action for those trophy bass. Officially available in a vibrant array of 8 colors. Each worm is made from durable, high-grade Non-Salted plastic for lifelike action and unparalleled durability. Perfectly balanced for a variety of rigging options and scented for total and maximum attraction, the Mandingo Trick Worm promises year-round effectiveness in lakes, rivers, and streams. Whether you’re rigging it on a Shakey Head, Drop Shot, Texas Rig, or Carolina Rig, these worms are your ticket to landing the big ones. Proudly made in the USA by real anglers to help elevate your fishing experience and catch more bass year-round!

Finesse fishing is an effective solution when bass are suspended, inactive, or under heavy pressure. Rigging small soft plastics on drop shot or split shot setups allows for subtle, controlled movement. These rigs shine when used around specific features like isolated rock piles, deep points, or subtle bottom contours. Unlike power techniques, finesse rigs give bass time to inspect and react to the bait without overwhelming them. Despite their subtle nature, these rigs can be worked relatively quickly to cover water efficiently. The goal is to match the mood of the fish. When they won’t chase, you meet them halfway with something small and precise. Vary your leader length or weight size depending on depth, current, and water clarity to fine-tune presentation. Let the bait sit longer in high-percentage spots, especially when fish are barely reacting. Finesse techniques are especially effective in pressured waters where fish have seen more aggressive approaches. Keeping your gear light and sensitive helps detect those subtle bites that heavier tackle might miss. Mastering finesse rigs can turn tough conditions into consistent catches. Even on days when the bite feels impossible, this strategy can outperform flashier methods.We have a wide variety of terminal tackle to choose from, but we’ve released new Nako Tungsten Tear Drop Shot Weights, crafted from 97% eco-friendly tungsten for stealth, durability, and vibration, with easy-to-read size stamps and a crimped swivel for quick changes. Owner Mosquito Hooks work for dropshotting and perfectly accommodates a wide range of soft plastics. The new Haymaker EWG Worm Hooks are also now available, featuring an extra-wide gap for various soft plastics, a Z-lock shoulder bend for secure bait placement, and an angled-up super needle point for fast, powerful hooksets. The popular All Purpose Hooks are built with an extra-wide gap and are made to accommodate a wide range of soft plastics. For creature-styled baits, a more popular choice to use is the Stand-Up Jig because it sits the bait up-right in a defensive stance! The Block Head Jig is perfect for ned rigging the HellaMite with its mushroom-style head that seamlessly matches a wide variety of soft plastics. The Offset Block Head Jig, offers the same mushroom-style head with a unique offset hook, making it a go-to for weedless Ned Rig applications. The Shakey Ultrahead can permanently secure baits by inserting the pin in the center and screwing the twist lock coil spring for perfect rigging every time! The Ultrahead Wacky Jig features precise weight positioning and hook orientation for the ultimate wacky presentations. For fast Texas rigging, we use the Bullet-Type Rig which has an attached weight saving you precious time when fishing cover. The 4x Jungle Flippin Hook is designed for big fish and the toughest conditions. The Range Roller Jig Head is crafted for precision with its high center axis design, perfect for hover-strolling and mid to bottom strolling with forward facing sonar, ensuring an enticing rolling action that triggers bites. We also just released Keep’em Fresh Bait Bags! These bags are the ultimate solution for anglers who need their gear to perform. Built like a tank, this bag is 20x stronger than regular zip bags and offers 100% waterproof protection with a rock-solid double zipper seal. Whether it’s for soft plastics, snacks, or your smartphone, this reusable and versatile bag keeps everything safe from water, mud, and grime. It’s lightweight yet spacious, it fits snugly in your tackle box or backpack, making it perfect for your next adventure.

New colorways for Whitewater’s Rapids Fishing Shirts inspire confidence and elevate performance

Brian Carter

July 31, 2025

New colorways for Whitewater’s Rapids Fishing Shirts inspire confidence and elevate performance

Comfortable and Great Looking

New colorways for Whitewater’s Rapids Fishing Shirts inspire confidence and elevate performance

MUSKEGON, Mich. (July 30, 2025) – Even the most versatile anglers have decided favorites – favorite species, favorite waters, and favorite gear. Certain lures, lines, rods, and reels simply inspire confidence. Whitewater Fishing believes the right angling apparel can and should inspire confidence, too. Wherever or however you fish, meet your favorite new fishing shirt… on or off the water. The versatile, comfortable and great-looking Rapids Fishing Shirt from Whitewater is available in new long-sleeved and short-sleeved colors. Made for fishing functionality without compromise, the Rapids Fishing Shirt is crafted from a lightweight poly-spandex blend offering supreme flexibility. These staple angling garments offer a relaxed fit to support all the various ways anglers move on the water, advanced moisture wicking, exceptional breathability, UPF 50 sun protection, and proven antimicrobial technology to prevent odors.

BLUE WHITE

SHADE STRIPE

BLUE WHITE

Fishing function is supported by form. A pair of buttoned, low-profile chest pockets are large enough to securely hold essential items like line spools, fly boxes and phones, while a vented, poly mesh back keeps things cool. Long-sleeved models feature a retaining system that keeps rolled-up sleeves securely in place.Exceptional comfort and unique performance characteristics aside, Rapids Fishing Shirts help anglers look as good as they feel. They’re naturally wrinkle-resistant with a tailored, sculpted appearance that’s just as flattering in a grip-and-grin social media post as it is back on the dock, in the clubhouse, or up on the seminar stage. A buttoned collar and straight bottom hemline add to the shirt’s versatility; it looks great with shorts, jeans, slacks or performance pants, either tucked or untucked.

Whitewater Rapids Fishing Shirt FEATURES:Poly spandex blend for comfort, flexibility, and wrinkle resistanceRelaxed fit supports extreme mobility Vented back with poly mesh delivers critical breathability and thermal regulationUPF 50 provides solar protectionMoisture wicking for comfort and fast dryingAntimicrobial treatment for odor preventionTwo low-profile buttoned chest pockets keep essential items secure and accessibleLong-sleeve features roll-up sleeve retentionSIZES: SM – 3XLNEW COLORS: Blue White and Shade StripeMSRP: $54.99 (short-sleeved ) / $59.99 (long-sleeved)

Private Equity Gutted Surf Brands — Is Fishing Next?

Bass News

Brian Carter

July 30, 2025

Private Equity Gutted Surf Brands — Is Fishing Next?

Casey Shedd, President of AFTCO

The outdoor boom brought PE Capital. But it could strip our soul too.

Living in Southern California, I’ve watched passion-driven surf brands like Quiksilver, Volcom, Billabong, Hurley, and RVCA collapse under the weight of private equity deals, complicated licensing agreements, and Chapter 11 filings. Less and less of their product can be found in core surf stores. Instead, it’s often now sold at Costco, JC Penny’s, and off-price channels that have nothing to do with surfing.

The powerhouse surf brands I grew up on are losing relevancy at a striking rate. While there are several reasons for that, Private Equity has certainly played a role in their current stage of demise. The recent bankruptcy of Liberated Brands, the discreet parent company formerly behind many of the most well-known surf brands, is just the latest chapter in an all too familiar story. Customer service lines at these brands are far too often silent, blown-out seam taping on wetsuits go unrepaired, and overall product quality has fallen. While new companies have stepped in to pick up the licenses for these brands, much of the damage is already done.

What began as aspirations for growth spiraled into a cycle of overexpansion, debt loads, declining purpose, and a lack of authenticity. The surf industry that once defined youth and counterculture became the paper pushers they initially sprung up to rebel against.

Thankfully, there is a new wave of surf brands. Not coincidentally, many are founder, independently, or family led. While that should give anyone who loves surfing hope, the lessons for the fishing industry are clear—and hit close to home.

CLICK LINK TO FINISH READING

Bass in Hot Water: Why Summer Fish Act So Weird

Brian Carter

July 30, 2025

Bass in Hot Water: Why Summer Fish Act So Weird

When the thermometer hits 80°+, bass aren’t just being picky—they’re fighting to stay alive

Ever wonder why bass seem to disappear when summer heats up? The answer lies in their biology.

The Heat Problem is Real

Bass are cold-blooded animals. This means their body temperature matches the water around them. When water gets hot, their bodies heat up too—and that creates big problems.

Dr. Sarah Lennox, who studies fish biology, explains it simply: “At 80 degrees and above, a bass’s body goes into overdrive mode. It’s like forcing your car engine to run at maximum RPMs all day long.”

Here’s what happens inside the fish:

Their metabolism speeds up dramatically
They need 2-3 times more oxygen just to breathe normally
Hot water holds much less oxygen than cool water
It’s like trying to breathe through a straw while running a marathon

Where Do Bass Go When It’s Hot?

Bass don’t just randomly swim deeper. They’re looking for a special underwater zone called the “thermocline.” Think of it as nature’s air conditioning layer.

The thermocline is where cooler water meets warmer water. It usually sits 15-25 feet down in most lakes. Here’s why bass love it:

The water is several degrees cooler
It has more oxygen dissolved in it
Bass can hang out without working so hard to breathe

When a bass finds this sweet spot, its body can finally relax. Its gills don’t have to work overtime, and blood can flow normally to all its organs instead of just keeping the heart and brain alive.

The “Lazy Bass” Myth Busted

Think summer bass are just being lazy? Wrong! They’re being smart about survival.

Here’s what’s really happening:

Energy Conservation: Every movement burns precious oxygen. Bass reduce their swimming by 70% to save energy.
Picky Eating: They only eat when food is super easy to catch. No chasing required.
Night Shift: Many bass switch to feeding at night when water cools down 5-10 degrees.

Dr. Marcus Reed, a fish expert, puts it this way: “Above 80 degrees, it’s not about feeding—it’s about not dying. Bass become prisoners of the heat.”

Why Your Fishing Lures Don’t Work

Summer bass biology explains why your favorite lures suddenly stop working:

Fast-moving baits fail because bass can’t afford the energy to chase them. Imagine trying to sprint when you’re already out of breath.

Shallow water fishing fails because that’s where the water is hottest and has the least oxygen. It’s like fishing in a desert.

Loud, flashy lures fail because stressed bass want easy meals, not exciting hunts.

What Actually Works in Hot Weather

Smart anglers work with bass biology, not against it:

Fish Deep and Slow: Use drop-shot rigs, jigs, or soft plastic worms near the thermocline. A fish finder helps you locate the exact depth where temperature changes.

Fish at Night: When the sun goes down, water cools and bass move shallow to feed. Try topwater frogs or soft baits.

Find Moving Water: Look for spots where water moves—below waterfalls, near dam outflows, or wind-blown banks. Moving water has more oxygen.

Go Small: Downsize your lures. A small finesse worm beats a big flashy crankbait every time.

The Bottom Line

Summer bass aren’t being difficult—they’re fighting a biological battle against heat and low oxygen. Understanding this changes everything about how you fish.

The key is simple: slow down, go deep, and follow the oxygen. Respect what the fish are going through, and you’ll catch the few bass that are willing to bite.

Next time you’re on the water and it’s blazing hot, remember—those bass aren’t hiding from you. They’re hiding from the heat, just trying to survive another scorching summer day.

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2025 St. Croix Bassmaster Open at St. Lawrence River presented by SEVIIN 7/31-8/2St. Lawrence River, Waddington, NY.(BOATER) Standings Day 1

Does Health Play a Role in Bass Fishing? by Calvin Herndon

Are we having too many night tournaments? by Carson Maddux

The Best Kept Secret:Learning to Be the BestBruce Callis Jr

Also thank you to KL Davis for supplying us with 4 cases if water and ice! We all enjoyed that sir!

CONGRATULATIONS TO EVERYONE WHO PLACED!

1st place with 21.36lbs anchored by the events Big Fish a beautiful 7.31lbs James River tank is the teams of Jake Lewis and Roger Rhodes. These fellas also capitalized on a 3rd payday taking home 1st place in the Side Pot. Very well-deserved guys and solid performance ’s!

2nd place with 20.81lbs anchored by a 4.81lbs toad goes to the team of Jared Williams and Guy Fairweather. They also capitalized on an extra payday with taking home 2nd in the Side Pot. Another set of ’s, congratulations to you both.

3rd place with 19.93lbs accompanied by a 6.85lbs green beast is the team of Nick Passalacqua and Nathan Seymour. Awesome job boys that was pretty work!

4th place with 17.07lbs goes to Wes Zabdyr and Mike Elswick. Pretty bag guys!

5th place with 16.70lbs taking home the 3rd place Side Pot award went to the team of Michael McCrickard and Tev Rollins. They also weighed in a 5.59lbs tank to add to their bag. Solid work boys!

6th place with 16.11lbs is the team of Sam Pollock and Richard Williams. Good job!

7th place with 15.75lbs anchored by a 4.56lbs toad goes to Brian Brooks and Avery Powelson.

8th place with 15.66lbs goes to Ryan Grattan and Danny Grattan.

9th place went to Rob Uzzle who weighed in 15.23lbs.

Our next events September 13th out of Osborne.

Private Equity Gutted Surf Brands — Is Fishing Next?

When the thermometer hits 80°+, bass aren’t just being picky—they’re fighting to stay alive

The Heat Problem is Real

Where Do Bass Go When It’s Hot?

The “Lazy Bass” Myth Busted

Why Your Fishing Lures Don’t Work

What Actually Works in Hot Weather

The Bottom Line

The Bass CastPRO

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2025 St. Croix Bassmaster Open at St. Lawrence River presented by SEVIIN 7/31-8/2
St. Lawrence River, Waddington, NY.
(BOATER) Standings Day 1

The Best Kept Secret:
Learning to Be the Best
Bruce Callis Jr