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Kissimmee Chain Of Lakes To Host Kickoff Event For 2018 Bassmaster Opens

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Kissimmee Chain Of Lakes To Host Kickoff Event For 2018 Bassmaster Opens

The first Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Eastern Open of 2018 heads to the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes out of Kissimmee, Fla., Feb. 1-3, where more than 400 anglers will compete for cash and prizes.

Photo by Shaye Baker/B.A.S.S.

Jan. 26, 2017

Kissimmee Chain Of Lakes To Host Kickoff Event For 2018 Bassmaster Opens

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KISSIMMEE, Fla. — More than 400 competitors are expected to take part in the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Eastern Open scheduled for Feb. 1-3 on the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes, a popular Florida fishery that has hosted more than two dozen B.A.S.S. events during the 50-year history of the Bassmaster Tournament Trail.

Anglers will leave Big Toho Marina each day at 7 a.m. ET, with weigh-ins scheduled for the first two days back at Big Toho Marina at 3 p.m. The Day 3 championship weigh-in will be held at 4 p.m. at the Bass Pro Shops in Orlando.

Dustin Connell, a Bassmaster Elite Series pro who has enjoyed some success on the Kissimmee Chain, says this tournament could be different than past early-season events held there.

“Everybody kind of associates Florida with flipping,” said Connell, who is not competing in the Open. “But they’ve had a cold winter down there, and I really don’t think things are going to set up right for that.

“It’s been a while since it’s happened down there, but I think you’re going to see somebody fishing a trap or a ChatterBait to win. I think it’s going to be won on Lake Toho.”

By “trap,” Connell means a Bill Lewis Rat-L-Trap or a similar type of lipless crankbait. A ChatterBait is a bladed jig that makes an alluring vibrating motion as it moves through the water.

Motion, Connell says, will be the key.

“The bass probably won’t be on the beds yet,” he said. “I think it’ll be won with something moving. I think if somebody looks hard enough, they can find an offshore deal — and if you do that, you won’t just be plucking one fish here and there. You’ll be able to pull up at daylight and be on a wad of them.”

Finding such an area won’t be easy on the vast waters of the Kissimmee Chain. That’s why so many choose flipping when they visit the area — because shoreline cover is plentiful and easy to find.

But Connell thinks it’ll be worth the extra time and effort to find good offshore areas.

“It’s like a needle in a haystack,” he said. “But I love those places. Those fish down there really like current, and if you find one little shellbed or something that’s loaded with them, you can just whack ’em.”

This year’s Opens circuit will feature a vastly different format than the one that has sent anglers to the Bassmaster Elite Series and the GEICO Bassmaster Classic presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods in the past.

Instead of three divisions of three tournaments each, there will be two divisions — the Central and the Eastern — with four tournaments apiece.

For the first time since 2005, the season will conclude with an Opens Championship that will be held Oct. 18-20 at a location yet to be announced.

The Championship field will include the four winners of the Opens tournaments in each division and the Top 10 in the points races — not including the winners — for a total of 28 competitors vying for invitations to the 2019 Elite Series and Bassmaster Classic.

With the Championship qualification in mind, Connell says anglers who aren’t on a winning pattern may be able to salvage some points and a decent finish around the lily pads.

“One of the big things that is happening down there now is people are flipping a Senko and a jig around isolated pads,” Connell said, adding that he thinks it will take about 56 pounds to win the three-day event. “So, if I wasn’t on anything and I wanted to catch some, that’s what I would do.”

The Kissimmee Sports Commission will be hosting the event.

Louisiana Duo Hold Top Spot At College Series Central Tour

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Louisiana Duo Hold Top Spot At College Series Central Tour

Tyler Craig (left) and Spencer Lambert of the University of Louisiana at Monroe take the lead on the first day of the Carhartt Bassmaster College Series Central Tour presented by Bass Pro Shops on Toledo Bend Reservoir out of Many, La., with 20 pounds, 13 ounces.

Photo by Ronnie Moore/B.A.S.S.

Jan. 25, 2017

Louisiana Duo Hold Top Spot At College Series Central Tour

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MANY, La. — The record-setting field of 248 teams expected an early start at the Carhartt Bassmaster College Series Central Tour presented by Bass Pro Shops at Toledo Bend, but that didn’t come to fruition as fog settled on the lake and delayed takeoff until 8:45 a.m. CT.

The one-hour, 45-minute delay meant anglers had less time on the water to figure out Toledo Bend Reservoir, which has been stingy. But Tyler Craig and Spencer Lambert of the University of Louisiana at Monroe figured it out enough to take command on Thursday with 20 pounds, 13 ounces.

This is familiar territory for Craig and Lambert as they led Day 1 last year at Sam Rayburn Reservoir and eventually finished second in the three-day event. The duo brought the only 20-pound bag to the scales as Toledo Bend was certainly as tough as the grumblings at the pre-tournament meeting suggested.

“We only got five bites today,” Craig said. “It’s slow out there, but when we get bit, they have been solid fish.”

They landed their two biggest fish within the last 15 minutes of fishing time, which suggests they needed every minute to put together their 20-pound bag. Craig and Lambert’s area isn’t based on a certain feeding window; they get bit throughout the day, but the fog delay hurt the amount of time they could spend on their spot.

“We set out with the mindset of catching quality over quantity,” Craig said.

The final day of practice revealed their spot’s capabilities as Lambert landed a 6 1/2-pounder. Then Craig caught the same size fish Thursday during the final minutes. That key big bite was the difference maker in a 14-pound bag and breaking 20 pounds.

The weather conditions weren’t ideal Thursday, with bluebird skies and zero wind. But a switch is expected for the remainder of the event, with clouds and rain in the forecast for Friday and Saturday. Craig and Lambert don’t expect the change to make a difference because the fish are congregated on their spot for another reason.

“These fish are related to shad big time,” Craig said. “The clouds should keep the shad there, and the fish should stay as well because they are in the feeding mood this time of the year.”

Although they go to school almost three hours away, Craig and Lambert have spent extensive time on Toledo Bend and are prepared to pull out all the stops to remain in the top spot.

Behind Craig and Lambert are Sam Houston State University teammates Jackson Carrell and Kyle Pasket with 19-5; Jake Biram and Rhett Meyer of Oklahoma State University are third with 17-15. The rest of the field is stacked closely in weight as the margin between fifth and the final cut spot of 30th is only 3 1/2 pounds.

The full field of 248 teams will fish on Day 2, and after Friday’s weigh-in the field will be cut to the Top 30. There is a tie for the bubble spot as Gregory Green and Dustin Nash of Northwestern State University and KJ Queen and Brad Ableman of Bethel University both have 13-5.

Daily takeoffs will be at 7 a.m. CT from Cypress Bend Park, and weigh-ins will begin back at the park each day at 3 p.m.

Carhartt Bassmaster College Series Central Tour presented by Bass Pro Shops

1/25/2018 – 1/27/2018

Toledo Bend Reservoir – Cypress Bend Park – Many, LA

STANDINGS BOATER DAY 1

Name # Fish # Live Lbs – Oz # Fish # Live Lbs-Oz PTS

1 Tyler Craig – Spencer Lambert University of Louisiana at Monroe 5 5 20-13 5 5 20-13 500.00

2 Jackson Carrell – Kyle Pasket Sam Houston State University 5 5 19- 5 5 5 19- 5 497.98

3 Jake Biram – Rhett Meyer Oklahoma State University 5 5 17-15 5 5 17-15 495.97

4 Jacob Sanders – Chad Poulsen East Texas Baptist University 5 5 17- 9 5 5 17- 9 493.95

5 Jarrett Robertson – Brandon Smith Tarleton State University 5 5 16-13 5 5 16-13 491.94

6 Hunter Louden – Seth Roberts Bethel University 5 5 16-11 5 5 16-11 489.92

7 Thad Simerly – Ethan Shaw Bryan College 5 5 16- 4 5 5 16- 4 487.90

8 Ryan Nevil – Jonathan Linder Dallas Baptist University 5 5 16- 3 5 5 16- 3 485.89

9 Dakota Pierce – Tristan McKormick Bethel University 5 5 16- 2 5 5 16- 2 483.87

10 Conner Choate – Hunter DeSplinter UW – Platteville 5 5 15-13 5 5 15-13 481.85

11 Caiden Sinclair – Hunter Gibson University of Alabama 5 5 15- 8 5 5 15- 8 479.84

12 Taylor Morten – Austin Porter Arkansas Tech University 5 5 14- 8 5 5 14- 8 477.82

13 Collin Bode – Josh Perrin Sam Houston State University 5 5 14- 7 5 5 14- 7 475.81

14 Nick Montilino – Nick Inzeo Murray State University 5 5 14- 6 5 5 14- 6 473.79

15 Will Brown – Chase Chastain Jacksonville State University 5 5 14- 5 5 5 14- 5 471.77

16 Evan Coleman – Josh Soroka Texas State University 5 5 14- 1 5 5 14- 1 469.76

16 Spencer Hahn – Ben Wanke University of Wisconsin 5 5 14- 1 5 5 14- 1 469.76

18 Carter Henderson – Connor Whisenant Texas A&M University 5 5 13-15 5 5 13-15 465.73

19 Matt Baker – Kory England Arkansas Tech University 5 5 13-14 5 5 13-14 463.71

20 Colin Steck – Andrew Wolfe University of Wisconsin 5 5 13-13 5 5 13-13 461.69

21 Carter McNeil – Cole Floyd Bethel University 4 4 13-13 4 4 13-13 459.68

22 Shane Campbell – Ethan Jones McKendree University 5 5 13-12 5 5 13-12 457.66

23 Victor Martinez – Lucas Jensen Texas Tech University 4 4 13-11 4 4 13-11 455.65

24 Caleb Dennis – Hunter Presley Central Alabama Comm College 5 5 13-10 5 5 13-10 453.63

24 Jacob Keith – Mason Beatty East Texas Baptist University 5 5 13-10 5 5 13-10 453.63

26 Nathan Bell – Cole Sands Bryan College 5 5 13- 9 5 5 13- 9 449.60

26 Hunter Freeman – Wesley Banks La Monroe 5 5 13- 9 5 5 13- 9 449.60

28 Alex Torkleson – Alec Murphy Rogers State University 5 5 13- 8 5 5 13- 8 445.56

29 Gregory Green – Dustin Nash Northwestern State University 5 5 13- 5 5 5 13- 5 443.55

29 KJ Queen – Brad Ableman Bethel University 5 5 13- 5 5 5 13- 5 443.55

31 Jeffrey Hopkins – Austin Handley Auburn University 4 4 13- 1 4 4 13- 1 439.52

32 Brian Pahl – John Garrett Bethel University 5 5 12-14 5 5 12-14 437.50

33 Zac Bennett – Chase Williams Georgia College 5 5 12-13 5 5 12-13 435.48

34 Luke Gillund – Jack Kons Bemidji State University 5 5 12-12 5 5 12-12 433.47

35 Austin Stanley – Knox Daniels Georgia College 3 3 12-11 3 3 12-11 431.45

36 Dillon Harrell – Colby Bryant Sam Houston State University 5 5 12- 4 5 5 12- 4 429.44

37 Andrew Roaten – Reid Grant Mississippi State University 5 5 11-12 5 5 11-12 427.42

38 Blake Albertson – Adam Puckett Murray State University 5 5 11-10 5 5 11-10 425.40

39 Crosley Welch – Hayden Lee Missouri State University 5 5 11- 9 5 5 11- 9 423.39

40 Michael Fisher – Brandon Padilla Jacksonville State University 5 5 11- 7 5 5 11- 7 421.37

41 Denver Satterlee – Landon Smith Calhoun Community College 5 5 11- 6 5 5 11- 6 419.35

42 John-Michael Brattlof – Cody Barchenger Stephen F Austin State University 5 5 11- 5 5 5 11- 5 417.34

43 Chris Bradley – Collin McFeeters Southwestern Oklahoma State Un i4versity 4 10-11 4 4 10-11 415.32

44 Logan Tate – Andrew Fisher Jacksonville State 4 4 10-10 4 4 10-10 413.31

45 Cully Scroggins – Nathon Portch Bethel University 5 5 10- 8 5 5 10- 8 411.29

46 Logan Parks – Lucas Lindsay Auburn University 4 4 10- 8 4 4 10- 8 409.27

47 Blake Capps – Derrick Skinner Oklahoma State University – IT 5 5 10- 5 5 5 10- 5 407.26

47 John Jay – Grant Pietsch Texas A&M University 5 5 10- 5 5 5 10- 5 407.26

49 Brett Clark – Jared Penton East Texas Baptist University 4 4 10- 3 4 4 10- 3 403.23

50 Reid Conner – Joshua Butts Wallace State Hanceville 5 5 10- 2 5 5 10- 2 401.21

51 Brandon Durr – Riley Rathbun Drury Univeristy 5 5 10- 1 5 5 10- 1 399.19

52 Greg Herman – Spencer White LA Tech 4 4 9-15 4 4 9-15 397.18

53 Brandon Bland – Tyler Smith U. of South Alabama 5 5 9-14 5 5 9-14 395.16

53 Scott McClellan – Adam Forester LA Tech 5 5 9-14 5 5 9-14 395.16

55 Austin Miles – Cooper Brown Colorado State University-Pueblo 4 4 9-11 4 4 9-11 391.13

56 Tyler Rivet – Jared Bascle Nicholls State University 5 5 9- 9 5 5 9- 9 389.11

57 Justin Barnes – Adam Carroll University of Montevallo 4 4 9- 9 4 4 9- 9 387.10

58 Bates Enmeier – Dexter Flick Oklahoma State University 4 4 9- 8 4 4 9- 8 385.08

59 Tyler Nekolny – Jake Hoselton Kansas State University 3 3 9- 8 3 3 9- 8 383.06

60 Braxton Resweber – Samuel Richie University of Louisiana, Lafayette 5 5 9- 7 5 5 9- 7 381.05

61 Cameron Gautreau – Andrew Tucker Nicholls State University 4 4 9- 7 4 4 9- 7 379.03

62 Grant Ehlenfeldt – Brett Stanek U. of Wisconsin Platteville 5 5 9- 6 5 5 9- 6 377.02

63 JP Kimbrough – Ryan Antee LSU Shreveport 4 4 9- 6 4 4 9- 6 375.00

64 Kyler Chelminiak – Ricky Harris Bethel University 5 5 9- 5 5 5 9- 5 372.98

65 Nathan Gibson – Josh Shapland Oklahoma State University 4 4 9- 4 4 4 9- 4 370.97

66 Collin Belcher – Conner Gopffarth Texas Tech University 5 5 8-13 5 5 8-13 368.95

67 Quinton Booth – Clay Cooper Missouri State University 3 3 8-12 3 3 8-12 366.94

68 Shon Messmer – Jeff Loesche Murray State University 2 2 8-12 2 2 8-12 364.92

69 Nolan Minor – Casey Lanier West Virginia University 4 4 8- 8 4 4 8- 8 362.90

70 Cole Burdeshaw – Peyton McCord Auburn University 4 4 8- 5 4 4 8- 5 360.89

71 Zachariah Edwards – Drew Douglas University of Central Oklahoma 2 2 8- 5 2 2 8- 5 358.87

72 Chris Lupo – Calhoun Comm College 3 3 8- 3 3 3 8- 3 356.85

73 Brent Rome Jr – Zachary Adams LSU 3 3 8- 0 3 3 8- 0 354.84

74 Trevor McKinney – Curtis Lilly McKendree University 4 4 7-15 4 4 7-15 352.82

75 Johnny Ledet – Logan Laprarie Northwestern State University 3 3 7-14 3 3 7-14 350.81

76 Conner Iselt – Tyler Wiltz Texas State University 4 4 7- 7 4 4 7- 7 348.79

76 Brennan Soileau – Garrett McDonald LA Tech 4 4 7- 7 4 4 7- 7 348.79

78 Matt Kudrna – Brock Gordley University of Missouri 1 1 7- 6 1 1 7- 6 344.76

79 Tyler Anderson – Garrison Thomas Texas A&M University 3 3 7- 5 3 3 7- 5 342.74

79 Austin Tubbs – Andrew Martin University of West Alabama 3 3 7- 5 3 3 7- 5 342.74

81 Tanner Ward – Jacob Klicman Kent State 3 3 7- 4 3 3 7- 4 338.71

82 Jake Soto – Nathan Wood Dallas Baptist University 3 3 7- 3 3 3 7- 3 336.69

83 Matthew Bowden – Kyle Kontor Texas Tech University 3 3 7- 1 3 3 7- 1 334.68

84 Sloan Pennington – Hunter McCarty U. of North Alabama 4 4 6-15 4 4 6-15 332.66

85 Dillon Roberts – Ty Crutchfield Rogers State University 3 3 6-14 3 3 6-14 330.65

85 Kirk Stilwell – Cole Crossman Missouri State University 3 3 6-14 3 3 6-14 330.65

87 Zachary Martin – Cole Emerson Murray State University 3 3 6- 9 3 3 6- 9 326.61

88 Jacob David – Nick Prestwood Tarleton State University 3 3 6- 6 3 3 6- 6 324.60

88 Corbin Davis – Michael Rollert Texas A&M University 3 3 6- 6 3 3 6- 6 324.60

88 Adam Deakin – Alec Sloan Colorado State University 3 3 6- 6 3 3 6- 6 324.60

91 Jonnie Koenen – Blake Lawston UW – Platteville 3 3 6- 5 3 3 6- 5 318.55

92 Chizta Xiong – Justin Chromy St Cloud State University 2 2 6- 2 2 2 6- 2 316.53

93 Dakota Moore – Dawson Cranford University of Louisiana at LaFayet t4e 4 6- 0 4 4 6- 0 314.52

94 Bo McGraw – Evan Cook Texas A&M University 3 3 6- 0 3 3 6- 0 312.50

95 Justin Schick – Tyler Rocke Illinois State University 2 2 5-15 2 2 5-15 310.48

96 Zachary Asher – Avery Millis Kent State University 3 3 5-10 3 3 5-10 308.47

97 Austin Mize – Ethan Goodwin U. of North Alabama 3 3 5- 9 3 3 5- 9 306.45

98 Luke O’Neal – Titus Stowe University of Louisiana at Monroe 2 2 5- 9 2 2 5- 9 304.44

99 Cordell Beckman – Quinten Brown Greenville University 2 2 5- 8 2 2 5- 8 302.42

100 Josh Worth – Colorado Mesa University 2 2 5- 7 2 2 5- 7 300.40

101 John Moore – Clark Mannas Texas A&M University 2 2 5- 6 2 2 5- 6 298.39

102 Joseph Bruener – Nathan Doty McKendree University 2 2 5- 4 2 2 5- 4 296.37

103 Blaise Weimer – Ti Caughman Oklahoma State University 3 3 5- 3 3 3 5- 3 294.35

104 Hayden Williams – McNeese State University 2 2 5- 3 2 2 5- 3 292.34

105 Zach Clisch – Adam Neu U. of Wisconsin Platteville 2 2 5- 2 2 2 5- 2 290.32

105 Grant Harris – Lauren Plunkett Drury University 2 2 5- 2 2 2 5- 2 290.32

107 Jordan Mullis – Joe Long Indiana University 4 4 5- 1 4 4 5- 1 286.29

108 Taylor Cranford – Connor Turner LSU 3 3 5- 1 3 3 5- 1 284.27

109 Kyle McAllen – Ethan Howe Northwestern State University 3 3 5- 0 3 3 5- 0 282.26

110 Garrett Enders – Cody Huff Bethel University 2 2 4-15 2 2 4-15 280.24

111 Garrett Brown – Jordan Gantt LSU Shreveport 2 2 4-14 2 2 4-14 278.23

112 Alex Murray – Trent Manuel McNeese State University 2 2 4-12 2 2 4-12 276.21

113 Dylan Friloux – Andre Adams University of Louisisana Lafayette 1 1 4-11 1 1 4-11 274.19

114 Zach Hartley – James Lenovicz Iowa State 2 2 4-10 2 2 4-10 272.18

114 Robert Moody – Gavin Herst Missouri State University 2 2 4-10 2 2 4-10 272.18

116 Trevor Schleich – Derek Kane University of Nebraska 2 2 4- 9 2 2 4- 9 268.15

117 Mekiah Jack – Chase McCrory Middle Tennessee State University 2 2 4- 8 2 2 4- 8 266.13

118 Drew Fazzino – Charles Vang University of Oklahoma 3 3 4- 7 3 3 4- 7 264.11

119 Stephen Harding – Greg Lundvick Texas State University 2 2 4- 7 2 2 4- 7 262.10

120 Bennett Pierce – Hampton Hasek Arkansas Tech University 1 1 4- 7 1 1 4- 7 260.08

121 Thomas Milstead – Jared Turnbloom University of Alabama 2 2 4- 6 2 2 4- 6 258.06

122 Harrison Hopkins – Jared Rascoe LSU Shrevepot 2 2 4- 4 2 2 4- 4 256.05

123 Kaito Ajiro – Turner Mason Colorado State University 2 2 4- 3 2 2 4- 3 254.03

124 Cade Fortenberry – Harrison Tabiolo River Parish Comm College 2 2 4- 1 2 2 4- 1 252.02

125 Connor McNabb – Brandon Boyd Mississippi State University 2 2 3-15 2 2 3-15 250.00

126 Cole Smith – Houston Smith Mississippi State University 1 1 3-11 1 1 3-11 247.98

127 Jackson Ebbers – Charlie DeShazer University of Nebraska 2 2 3- 8 2 2 3- 8 245.97

128 Austin Carr – Justin Carr Heartland Community College 2 2 3- 7 2 2 3- 7 243.95

128 Tanner Johnson – Jacob Wood LaGrange College 2 2 3- 7 2 2 3- 7 243.95

130 Ethan Stokes – Will Lancett Arkansas Tech University 2 2 3- 5 2 2 3- 5 239.92

131 Chad Ziegler – Ross Kellermeier Bemidji State University 2 2 3- 4 2 2 3- 4 237.90

132 Jared Stone – Matthew Ford Tarleton State University 1 1 3- 4 1 1 3- 4 235.89

133 Colson Ginger – Robert White Texas A&M University 2 2 3- 3 2 2 3- 3 233.87

134 Austin Finley – Hunter Ward Central Alabama Community Colle 1ge 1 3- 3 1 1 3- 3 231.85

135 Zachary Hansen – Aaron Wojtowicz University of Wisconsin Stout 2 2 3- 2 2 2 3- 2 229.84

136 Cameron Mercer – Blake Spradlin Auburn University 1 1 3- 2 1 1 3- 2 227.82

137 Armando Ortiz – Dylan McKee Auburn University 2 2 3- 1 2 2 3- 1 225.81

138 Hunter Mills – Jordan Hartman Murray State University 1 1 3- 0 1 1 3- 0 223.79

138 Miller Spivey – Chandler Sickafoose Wallace State Hanceville 1 1 3- 0 1 1 3- 0 223.79

140 Hunter Whiteley – Reese Jones Kansas State University 1 1 2-14 1 1 2-14 219.76

141 Brandon Heizer – Gabe Dubois University of Missouri 1 1 2-11 1 1 2-11 217.74

142 Eric Hanna – Jack Minnix Oklahoma State University 1 1 2-10 1 1 2-10 215.73

142 Bryce White – Riley Sanders Mississippi State 1 1 2-10 1 1 2-10 215.73

144 Hunter Malmay – Robert Jones Northwestern State University 1 1 2- 9 1 1 2- 9 211.69

145 Brendan Bingham – Clay Evans Murray State University 2 2 2- 8 2 2 2- 8 209.68

146 DJ Barber – Dalton Price Bryan College 1 1 2- 7 1 1 2- 7 207.66

146 Chase Herndon – JP Pirani Jr Auburn University 1 1 2- 7 1 1 2- 7 207.66

146 Jacob Shannon – Brandon Murphy University of Texas, Tyler 1 1 2- 7 1 1 2- 7 207.66

149 Will Kaiser – Vala Zeinali Kent State University 1 1 2- 6 1 1 2- 6 201.61

149 Matt Pastino – Jerris Bush East Carolina University 1 1 2- 6 1 1 2- 6 201.61

151 Dylan Jebousek – Justin Faterkowski Tarleton State University 1 1 2- 4 1 1 2- 4 197.58

151 Kenny Wilkins – Connor Felstead Northern Michigan University 1 1 2- 4 1 1 2- 4 197.58

153 Caleb Bundy – Alex Moore U. of Central Florida 1 1 2- 3 1 1 2- 3 193.55

154 Tucker Sargent – Wyatt Young Tarleton State University 1 1 2- 2 1 1 2- 2 191.53

155 John Authement – Matthew Benoits Nicholls State 1 1 2- 1 1 1 2- 1 189.52

155 Johnathan Peck – Steven Ricketts Bryan College 1 1 2- 1 1 1 2- 1 189.52

155 Patrick Pelt – Logan McEwen Auburn University 1 1 2- 1 1 1 2- 1 189.52

158 Noah Garnett – Tyler Pendergrass Wallace State Hanceville 1 1 2- 0 1 1 2- 0 183.47

158 Graham Godwin – Chad Jones Tarleton State University 1 1 2- 0 1 1 2- 0 183.47

160 Charles Norris – Lawrence Kuznik University of Louisiana, Lafayette 1 1 1-14 1 1 1-14 179.44

161 Haden Holmes – James Whitacre Wallace State Hanceville 1 1 1-13 1 1 1-13 177.42

162 Hank Harrison – Mason Hamm Stephen F Austin State University 1 1 1-12 1 1 1-12 175.40

162 Thor Swanson – Mitch Swanson Bemidji State University 1 1 1-12 1 1 1-12 175.40

162 Zach Vielhauer – Will Andrie Kansas State 1 1 1-12 1 1 1-12 175.40

165 Ricky Huge – Benjamin Fouts Greenville University 1 1 1-11 1 1 1-11 169.35

166 Will Hughes – Wyatt Frankens Stephen F Austin State University 1 1 1-10 1 1 1-10 167.34

166 Josh Osborn – Cole Daniel University of Central Oklahoma 1 1 1-10 1 1 1-10 167.34

166 Ethan Scheffler – Robert Brewer Missouri State University 1 1 1-10 1 1 1-10 167.34

166 Tyler Winn – Devin Duncan Northeastern State University 1 1 1-10 1 1 1-10 167.34

170 Preston Reeder – Will Harding Wallace State Hanceville 1 1 1- 9 1 1 1- 9 159.27

170 Ryan Wood – Reid Strobl Dallas Baptist University 1 1 1- 9 1 1 1- 9 159.27

172 Tucker Adams – Jack Stegall Mississippi State University 1 1 1- 8 1 1 1- 8 155.24

172 Cole Hewett – Lee Smith U. of Central Florida 1 1 1- 8 1 1 1- 8 155.24

174 Will Sanders – Jake Knight Ouachita Baptist University 1 1 1- 7 1 1 1- 7 151.21

175 Jarred Jones – Devin Mobbs Jacksonville State University 1 1 1- 3 1 1 1- 3 149.19

175 Mike Lowry – Brian Koch Murray State University 1 1 1- 3 1 1 1- 3 149.19

177 Seth Hausman – Jonathan Ham Stephen F Austin State University 1 1 1- 1 1 1 1- 1 145.16

178 Dylan Matherne – Brandon Daigle Southeastern Louisiana University 1 1 0- 5 1 1 0- 5 143.15

179 Carson McCone – Cason Kelley Tarleton State University 4 4 0- 0 4 4 0- 0 141.13

180 Jake Adams – Seth Gill Tarleton State University 0 0 0- 0 0 0 0- 0 0.00

180 Cole Amedee – Luke Cheramie Nicholls State University 0 0 0- 0 0 0 0- 0 0.00

180 Mike Anderson – Zachary Schepf U. of Wisconsin Oshkosh 0 0 0- 0 0 0 0- 0 0.00

180 Austin Anderson – Sam Garcia Stephen F Austin State University 0 0 0- 0 0 0 0- 0 0.00

180 Jacob Anderson – Christopher Lewis University of Wisconsin 0 0 0- 0 0 0 0- 0 0.00

180 Austin Bartholomew – Matthew O’Dea University of Iowa 0 0 0- 0 0 0 0- 0 0.00

180 Landen Beckham – Austin Godwin University of Texas, Tyler 0 0 0- 0 0 0 0- 0 0.00

180 Mason Bishop – Tyler Bishop Southern Illinois University Carbon 0dale 0 0- 0 0 0 0- 0 0.00

180 Noah Boyett – Mason McNee University of Arkansas 0 0 0- 0 0 0 0- 0 0.00

180 Aaron Carley – Austin Pierce Sam Houston State University 0 0 0- 0 0 0 0- 0 0.00

180 Brandon Consalus – Drake Wayland Tarleton State University 0 0 0- 0 0 0 0- 0 0.00

180 Paul Davis – Reece Crabtree Missouri State University 0 0 0- 0 0 0 0- 0 0.00

180 Nathan Doss – Jackson Pardue University of North Alabama 0 0 0- 0 0 0 0- 0 0.00

180 Kyle Dragulski – Robert Howard Stephen F Austin State University 0 0 0- 0 0 0 0- 0 0.00

180 Tanner Eaves – Jordan Thompson Calhoun Comm College 0 0 0- 0 0 0 0- 0 0.00

180 Michael Elkins – JT Thompson U. of North Alabama 0 0 0- 0 0 0 0- 0 0.00

180 Kyle Everett – John Higginbotham LA Tech 0 0 0- 0 0 0 0- 0 0.00

180 AJ Faught – Griffin Stephens Wallace State Hanceville 0 0 0- 0 0 0 0- 0 0.00

180 Wayne Figg – Edwar

SCHMITT LEADS DAY ONE OF FLW TOUR AT LAKE OKEECHOBEE PRESENTED BY EVINRUDE

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SCHMITT LEADS DAY ONE OF FLW TOUR AT LAKE OKEECHOBEE PRESENTED BY EVINRUDE

SCHMITT LEADS DAY ONE OF FLW TOUR AT LAKE OKEECHOBEE PRESENTED BY EVINRUDE

Arkansas’ Roberts Leads Co-Anglers

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CLEWISTON, Fla. (Jan. 25, 2018) – Maryland Pro Bryan Schmitt surprised even himself on Thursday. The six-year FLW Tour veteran caught a five-bass limit weighing 24 pounds, 11 ounces, to take the lead on opening day of the 2018 season at the FLW Tour at Lake Okeechobee. The event, presented by Evinrude, features a field of 376 of the world’s best bass-fishing professionals and co-anglers casting for top awards of up to $125,000 cash in the pro division and up to $25,000 cash in the co-angler division.

The weather conditions in central Florida were good Thursday despite a brisk north wind that prompted Tournament Director Bill Taylor to advise anglers to use the protected canals and rim ditches instead of trying to make a run across the middle of the lake. The main challenge for tournament anglers was finding clear water.

“This was not expected,” said Schmitt, a two-time Forrest Wood Cup qualifier who has 10 wins in FLW competition – all on rivers and tidal fisheries. “The final afternoon of practice I found one spot where I got a ton of little bites. I decided to go there today and I guess that they have grown up a little bit.”

Schmitt caught all of his bass – including a pair of 6-pound, 13-ounce largemouth – from his one spot, throwing just one bait.

“I hammered it, all day,” he said. “An hour and a half in, I changed the bait and started throwing something that I hadn’t thrown, but it’s a bait that I have a lot of confidence in. It was like a lightbulb went off and every one of my fish came on that bait.

“I really hope it doesn’t get dirty,” Schmitt continued. “Towards the end of the day the wind was starting to put mud in there and if it (wind) changes a hair, it’s done. The problem is that my only other place where I caught any fish in practice is so far away that I don’t know if I’ll have enough fuel to make it there. That’s a big problem.”

Schmitt credited his “lucky” co-angler Darlene Ferguson of Tehachapi, California, as another factor that contributed to his success.

“She caught two fish and she’s really good luck,” he went on to say. “She has a reputation among some of the pros as being really good luck to have in the boat with you.”

The top 10 pros after day one on Lake Okeechobee are:

1st:          Bryan Schmitt, Deale, Md., five bass, 24-11

2nd:         General Tire pro Mark Rose, West Memphis, Ark., five bass, 24-0

3rd:         Christopher Brasher, Longview, Texas, five bass, 22-0

4th:         Britt Myers, Clover, S.C., five bass, 21-8

5th:         Tyler Stewart, West Monroe, La., five bass, 21-2

6th:         Michael Neal, Dayton, Tenn., five bass, 21-0

7th:         Power-Pole pro Cory Johnston, Cavan, Ontario, Canada, five bass, 20-11

8th:         Brandon Mosley, Choctaw, Okla., five bass, 20-9

9th:         Cameron Gautney, Muscle Shoals, Ala., five bass, 20-5

10th:       Bradley Dortch, Atmore, Ala., five bass, 19-9

For a full list of results visit FLWFishing.com.

Johnston earned the day’s $500 Simms Big Bass award in the pro division thanks to an 8-pound, 4-ounce largemouth.

Overall there were 883 bass weighing 2,128 pounds, 8 ounces caught by 186 pros Thursday. The catch included 165 five-bass limits.

Pro competitors Andy Young of Mound, Minnesota, and William Campbell of Middlesboro, Kentucky, were involved in a boat collision on Lake Okeechobee Thursday afternoon. The collision happened while both anglers were running the lake and met at an intersection, with Campbell’s boat striking the port (left) side of Young’s boat. Young and his co-angler were ejected, but were able to return to their boat after Young’s mandatory ignition shutoff device disengaged the engine. Both boats were able to return to the launch site at the Clewiston Boat Basin and the accident is under investigation by the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission. Young decided to seek medical attention upon his return to the ramp. Young’s catch was weighed and he finished the day with five bass weighing 10 pounds even, good for 117th place, while Campbell was late in his return to check-in and did not weigh in.

Dustin Roberts of Dardanelle, Arkansas, leads the co-angler division with five bass weighing 23 pounds, 13 ounces, followed by Shawn Wildt of Bullard, Texas, who weighed five bass totaling 19-10, good for second place.

The top 10 co-anglers after day one on Lake Okeechobee are:

1st:          Dustin Roberts, Dardanelle, Ark., five bass, 23-13

2nd:         Shawn Wildt, Bullard, Texas, five bass, 19-10

3rd:         Robby Frashier, Carrollton, Ga., five bass, 19-6

4th:         Tyler Woolcott, Port Orange, Fla., five bass, 18-4

5th:         Don Ortwein, Anderson, Ind., five bass, 15-13

6th:         Jeffrey Mathews, Maitland, Fla., five bass, 15-12

7th:         Josh Lockard, Somerset, Ky., five bass, 15-5

8th:         Joel Willert, Lakeville, Minn., five bass, 15-2

9th:         Todd Lee, Jasper, Ala., five bass, 14-10

10th:       Jordan Thompkins, Myrtle Beach, S.C., five bass, 14-9

Roberts earned $250 for the Simms Big Bass award in the co-angler division with a 9-pound, 7-ounce largemouth.

Overall there were 643 bass weighing 1,242 pounds even caught by 172 co-anglers Thursday. The catch included 86 five-bass limits.

In FLW Tour competition, pros and co-anglers are randomly paired each day, with pros supplying the boat, controlling boat movement and competing against other pros. Co-anglers fish from the back deck against other co-anglers. The full field of 376 anglers competes in the two-day opening round. Co-angler competition concludes following Friday’s weigh-in, while the top 30 pros based on their two-day accumulated weight advance to Saturday. Only the top 10 pros continue competition Sunday, with the winner determined by the heaviest accumulated weight from the four days of competition.

The total purse for the FLW Tour at Lake Okeechobee presented by Evinrude is more than $930,000, including $10,000 through 60th place in the Pro division. The tournament is hosted by Roland & Mary Ann Martin’s Marina and Resort and the Hendry County Tourism Development Council.

Throughout the season, anglers are also vying for valuable points in hopes of qualifying for the 2018 Forrest Wood Cup, the world championship of professional bass fishing. The 2018 Forrest Wood Cup will be on Lake Ouachita in Hot Springs, Arkansas, Aug. 10-12 and is hosted by the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism and Visit Hot Springs.

Anglers will take off at 7:30 a.m. EST each day from Roland & Mary Ann Martin’s Marina and Resort, located at 920 E. Del Monte, Ave., in Clewiston. Friday’s weigh-ins, Jan. 26, will be held at the resort beginning at 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday’s weigh-ins, Jan. 27-28, will also be held at the resort, but will begin at 4 p.m.

Prior to the weigh-ins Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 27-28, FLW will host a free Family Fishing Expo at Roland & Mary Ann Martin’s Marina and Resort from noon to 4 p.m. each day. The Expo is a chance for fishing fans to meet their favorite anglers, enjoy interactive games, activities and giveaways provided by FLW sponsors, and learn more about the sport of fishing and other outdoor activities.

Also for youth, the FLW Foundation’s Unified Fishing Derby will be held at the marina on Saturday, Jan. 27 from 9-11 a.m. The event is hosted by FLW Foundation pro Cody Kelley along with other FLW Tour anglers, and is free and open to anyone under the age of 18 and Special Olympics athletes. Rods and reels are available for use, but youth are encouraged to bring their own if they own one. The 1st and 2nd place anglers that catch the biggest fish will be recognized Saturday on the FLW Tour stage, just prior to the pros weighing in.

Television coverage of the FLW Tour at Lake Okeechobee presented by Evinrude will premiere in high-definition (HD) on NBC Sports Network (NBCSN) March 28 from Noon-1 p.m. EST. The Emmy-nominated “FLW” television show airs on NBCSN, the Pursuit Channel and the World Fishing Network and is broadcast to more than 564 million households worldwide.

For complete details and updated information visit FLWFishing.com. For regular updates, photos, tournament news and more, follow the sport’s top anglers on the FLW Tour on FLW’s social media outlets at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Snapchat.

Dreams & the Richmond Fishing Expo by Bruce Callis

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Dreams & the Richmond Fishing Expo by Bruce Callis

And the countdown begins. With the close of the Richmond Bass and Saltwater Fishing Expo this past Sunday night, so many of us have started to count down the days to the 2019 show already. I know that I am one of those who can’t wait. This year, while there was a slight drop in sporting good dealers, there were also some new players who made their way to Richmond. And there were so many fan favorites back again.


This year was another great year in my opinion. I got to meet and talk with so many amazing people. And I got to see some amazing new products for this year. It is a time of meeting up with old friends and finding some great deals. It is also a time to take in the many seminars offered for both freshwater and saltwater anglers. We as anglers are all always looking to learn something that will help us in our fishing adventures. We are always looking to improve ourselves.
Every year I always look forward to the presentations by some of the top Elite Bass and FLW anglers. This year was no exception. The 2017 BASS Elite Angler of the Year Gerald Swindle was back again this year. He was here in 2016, and once again made a huge impact in the lives of others. And fellow BASS Elite Angler Jonathon Van Dam made his first appearance at the Richmond Expo. One of my favorite, and local BASS Elite angler, John Crews was back again this year. A surprise was FLW Pro Angler Wesley Strader at the Powell Fishing Rods booth.


While so many think of the Expo as an angler event, it is also a great place to bring the family. With the Casting for Kids events and the Kids Fishing Pond for trout, the very young can always have a great time. One of the most exciting moments is watching a small child hook into a fish. Yes, some really love the catching, but some just aren’t the fish holding type, yet. But it is a great time to let them experience the thrill we get when we hook into a fish.
Rods, reels, wooden lures, jigs, crankbaits, line conditioners, boats, jerky, and so much more can be found as you wander down the aisles. Everything looks great to someone. We all want to see so much there. Sometimes we pass a booth with a glance, and miss a golden opportunity. I’m guilty as charged. Every year I pass by the booth that Bruce Ingram has, usually because he is off giving a seminar. This year I got to meet Bruce finally. What a true wealth of knowledge about Virginia and its fisheries. I have found that I miss too much each year, and I leave the show wanting more.
We all want to see the big name companies there with a booth. And so many are disappointed, not because of what is there, but by what isn’t. By staying away, we don’t show them that the numbers are there to support them being there. We keep comparing what once was to what is here now. We forget that we are so lucky to have such an awesome event every year. It can’t grow if we don’t support it. One thing is for certain, Virginia has some of the best companies here. From jigs and soft plastics to custom lures, we have so much to offer. And the Expo is the place where we get to meet these companies.
Dreams, dreams of a young child wanting to meet the big anglers they see on television and online. Dreams of shaking their hands and asking them about how they can become better anglers. Dreams of one day becoming just like them. The Expo is a place dreams can come true. Sometimes, we find that we have become too big to dream. But, I’m still a kid at heart. I still dream about the what if, even if the adult side of me says its too late. But it’s never too late, to learn and grow. And with each show, I grow wiser. But the kid in me never outgrows the thrill. Have you lost it? Have you let the kid inside you grow old?

Growing Bassmaster High School All-American Program Seeks Nominations for 2018 Class

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Growing Bassmaster High School All-American Program Seeks Nominations for 2018 Class

Jan. 24, 2018

Growing Bassmaster High School All-American Program Seeks Nominations for 2018 Class

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BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. is now accepting nominations for the best and brightest high school bass anglers in the country to complete its 2018 class of distinguished students.

The Bassmaster High School All-American Fishing Team presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods recognizes the 12 best high school anglers in the nation. The program is designed to reward young athletes for their performance in tournaments, leadership in their communities and involvement in conservation efforts.

Applications for the team, which is now in its fourth year, will be accepted today through Feb. 16.

To be considered, a student must be nominated by a parent, coach, teacher or other school official. Students currently enrolled in grades 10 through 12 with a grade-point average of 2.5 or higher are eligible.

Judges will select up to two student anglers in each state. These All-State Fishing Team members will become semifinalists in the selection of the 12-member All-American Team. Criteria include success in high school fishing tournaments and involvement in conservation efforts and other community service activities.

The anglers chosen will compete in a one-day Bassmaster All-American High School Tournament to be held in conjunction with the 2018 Toyota Bassmaster Texas Fest benefiting Texas Parks and Wildlife Department — one of nine regular-season Bassmaster Elite Series tournaments being held this year. Elite Series anglers will serve as coaches for the student anglers in the one-day fishing event on Lake Travis in Jonestown, Texas, where they will be honored before the weigh-in crowd.

“Our High School All-American program has grown exponentially, with almost double the number of applicants since its inception.” said Hank Weldon, senior manager of the Bassmaster High School program. “We are so proud to see all of the accomplishments of young students across the country that do great things for their community and our sport. And, to recognize them with this award is such an honor for B.A.S.S. We can’t wait to see what our 2018 applicants will bring to the table.”

All students who compete in high school fishing events are eligible, regardless of whether they are affiliated with B.A.S.S. or another fishing organization.

Notices have been sent to youth fishing directors of the B.A.S.S. Nation and other organizations, as well as leaders of state high school fishing programs. Adults can nominate students by completing an online form at Bassmaster.com/allamerican. Nominations must be submitted before midnight, Feb. 16.

Zee New Man on Campus

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Zee New Man on Campus

Zee New Man on Campus

Z-Man Retains Rising Bassmaster Elite Series Star Mark Daniels Jr.

Ladson, SC (January 24, 2018) – Good fishing stories are timeless, some even read a little like the archetypal hero’s journey. You find yourself pulling for the good guy: to slay the mythic dragon, or more importantly, to hook the giant fish.

You can’t help but root for a dude like Mark Daniels Jr. Fresh off his first full season on the Bassmaster Elite Series and a new endorsement deal with pioneering tackle company Z-Man Fishing, you might say Daniels’ day has come. But for this particular angler, the journey has been every bit as interesting as its outcome.

“I grew up on the shores of San Francisco Bay, where my pops took me fishing every chance he got,” recalls the likeable, Tuskegee, Alabama based angler. “We fished for anything that bit—didn’t matter. So long as it pulled our strings, we were happy.”

A few years later, Daniels’ family moved to Suisun City, California, taking him 35 miles from the bay and its fish. “Thankfully, one of my dad’s best friends, Doug Rodgers, was somewhat of a bass tournament guy. He’d take us fishing in his 16-foot Bayliner, and right away, something about bass just clicked.

“From age five or six, I was absolutely glued to Hank Parker, Bill Dance and the Bassmasters on TV. I’d flip through Bass Pro Shops’ enormous catalog non-stop, always trying to scrounge together enough money for a box of new tackle. Eventually, I discovered some local bass ponds where I could fish all these cool lures. Can’t tell you how many times I made that two-mile walk. Man, I was hooked.”

Following years of weekend bass derbies, Daniels’ tenacity resulted in a big win at the 2013 Bass Federation Championship. Part of the prize package earned him the so-called Living the Dream Package. “The Bass Federation doesn’t get enough credit for this awesome program,” notes Daniels. “The Federation paid all my entry fees on the FLW Tour for a year, plus a truck and boat and travel expenses. Basically, they made it possible for a typical blue-collar American to fish for a living. That was the beginning of everything for me — I’ve been living the dream ever since!”

On of Daniels’ finesse go-to baits: Z-Man Hula StickZ

Following years of different sponsorships—some good, some Daniels chalked up to ‘learning experiences,’ the energetic angler met the folks at Z-Man Fishing. The connection was immediate.

“I knew immediately, after following Mark a few years back when he was featured on FLW’s Circuit Breaker series that he was someone we needed to work with,” says Daniel Nussbaum, President of Z-Man Fishing. “Mark projects just an awesome positive energy and a passion for tournament fishing. He’s a tremendously skilled angler—his fast-rising career on the Bassmaster Elite Series is certainly rivaled by his ability to connect with fans and enthusiastically promote his sponsors.

“We’re really looking forward to working with Mark on new bait designs as we continue to broaden the Z-Man product line.”

Daniels adds: “One thing I’ve realized is that relationships matter more than anything. Making money in tournaments and sponsorships is nice. But connecting with truly great companies and solid, honorable people is everything.”

“I like that Z-Man is different. Their products are so inventive—outside the box and awesome fish-catchers. I mean, nothing they do is “me-too.” Everyone knows about the Chatterbait, right? Totally different deal, and deadly. But when my buddy and fellow bass pro Brian Latimer turned me on to some of their finesse baits — Finesse TRD, Hula StickZ, TrickShotZ — it changed my world.

“I’ve got a Finesse TRD on my rod right now that’s still ticking after fifty-plus catches. How crazy is that?”

Winter Jig Fishing Tips: Bucktails, Underspins & More! MTB

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Winter Jig Fishing Tips: Bucktails, Underspins & More! MTB

Winter Jig Fishing Tips: Bucktails, Underspins & More!

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When the weather turns cold, the leadhead jig becomes one of the most appealing lures to lethargic bass. Here’s a few winter jig fishing tips to make you a MASTER of the jig.

In warm-water situations, anglers usually narrow their jig fishing techniques to pitching, flipping or casting a live rubber jig with a plastic trailer. But in the winter, you can throw a variety of jigs designed to trigger a strike from even the most sluggish bass.

The most common types of leadheads used during the winter include the live rubber jig, the bucktail or hair jig and the horsehead or underspin jighead.

Live Rubber Winter Jig Fishing

football jigs

Pitching a live rubber jig along ledge banks of creek channels catches winter bass holding at depths of 10 to 15 feet. Match a 1/4-ounce jig with a small pork frog to create a slow-falling lure for finicky bass.

Look for steep ledges with big rocks and position your boat over depths of 20 to 25 feet of water. Pitch the jig near the ledge bank and let it fall as close to the ledge as possible. Slowly raise and lower the jig so it stair-steps down the rock shelves.

Bucktail Winter Jig Fishing

bucktail

A bucktail jig works best when the water temperature really plummets in the dead of winter. Tie on a 1/4-ounce jig in either black or brown and tip it with a small pork frog for a slow fall to trigger more strikes.

Target 45-degree chunk rock banks on the main lake or in creeks where bass will be suspended 5 to 15 feet deep. You can either slowly hop the jig or swim it steadily depending on the mood of the bass.

The horsehead or underspin jig offers all kinds of features for tricking wintertime bass. You can fish it slow yet the blade will still turn. You get that pulsing action and flashing of the blade plus the action and color of the plastic lure you add to the jighead whether it’s a paddletail swimbait or curl-tail plastic grub.

Underspin Winter Jig Fishing

underspin winter jig fishing

Downsizing to a 1/8- or 1/16-ounce underspin gives you a slow-falling presentation. Main lake bluffs with rock slides are ideal spots to throw the horsehead jig for wintertime bass.
After determining the depth of bass on your electronics, cast the underspin and let it fall to the desired depth. Then retrieve the lure in a slow, steady fashion.

While other lures might produce better in warmer weather, the leadhead jig offers the best option for dealing with inactive wintertime bass.

 

Catch More Fish With Mystery Tackle Box

Gear up and catch more fish! With a Mystery Tackle Box Subscription, you’ll get a box of baits hand delivered to your door each month. In addition to the best new baits you’ll have access to our expert tips, how-to videos, fishing decals, MTB exclusive baits, and more. With baits up to 40% off retail, this is one service every angler needs to try!

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BassBoat4Sale.com is proud to announce the addition of FLW Tour Pro Brandon McMillan to the team

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BassBoat4Sale.com is proud to announce the addition of FLW Tour Pro Brandon McMillan to the team

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BassBoat4Sale.com is proud to announce the addition of FLW Tour Pro Brandon McMillan to the team. The 2018 FLW Tour is about to kick off in a huge way! Stop #1 at World Famous Lake Okeechobee. We can’t be more ecstatic to welcome Brandon for the 2018 year.

Brandon McMillan of Clewiston, FL a FLW Tour veteran is no stranger to Lake Okeechobee. Fishing Costa’s, BFL’s, FLW Tour, and numerous events in FL and around the USA. Brandon’s multiple years fishing on the tour with FLW CUP appearances makes him a fierce angler to compete with.
Brandon and Josh have known one another for many years fishing Lake Okeechobee and multiple Florida events including ICAST and Roland Martin Marine Series. It just made great business synergy to bring Brandon onboard and we can’t be happier. McMillan brings a smile, warm heart and his competitive edge on and off the water.

“We are super humble to have Brandon on the team this year, we support him on and off the water. Good Luck this year Brandon!” said Josh Roller (CEO, BassBoat4Sale.com) Brandon will be fishing from his fully loaded 2018 Ranger z520L powered by Mercury Motors. See more at: BassBoat4Sale.com/team

McMillan will join BASS Elite Pro Kyle Monti, FLW Costa Pro Breezy McMillan, BASS Open Pro Garrett Rocamora, Trevor Stephens and Joe Holland to the 2018 roster.

For additional information contact: [email protected]

Crankbait Hookup Tips: How To Land More Bass On Crankbaits by MTB

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Crankbait Hookup Tips: How To Land More Bass On Crankbaits by MTB

Crankbait Hookup Tips: How To Land More Bass On Crankbaits

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Despite two sets of treble hooks dangling from its body, the crankbait ranks as one of the most notorious lures for losing hooked bass. It seems almost impossible for a bass to avoid all those hook points, but you constantly hear those lost-fish tales of woe from even the best crankbait throwers.

Crankbait Hookup Tips

Equipping your lures with sharp hooks is one of the most critical steps you can take to ensure landing bass on crankbaits. During your day on the water, check your hooks often and if one feels dull replace it with a new treble hook. You can also replace the crankbait’s original hooks with larger ones to improve the lure’s hooking potential.

Crankbait Fishing Rod And Reel

fall docks

Matching the right rod and reel can improve your chances of landing bass on crankbaits. A 7-foot fiberglass rod with a soft tip allows you to make a better sweeping hookset which will keep a bass hooked on the crankbait longer.

A baitcast reel with a good drag system is paramount to catching bass on crankbaits. Loosening the drag prevents bass from pulling off the crankbait on hard runs and eventually wears down the fish.

Detecting Crankbait Strikes

Detecting a strike and following up with a solid hookset improves your odds of landing a bass on a crankbait. When you detect a strike, wait until you feel the weight of the fish before attempting a hookset.

In most cases, the hookset determines your fate when a bass strikes your crankbait. Several bass are lost due to setting the hook too hard or using too stiff of a rod or setting the drag too tight. A hard and fast jerk of the rod works well for setting the hook on bass that have hit a plastic worm or jig, but a hookset on a crankbait bite requires the opposite approach. When you detect a strike, pull back steadily on the rod and keep reeling to tighten up your line and drive the hooks home.

Once hooked, bass tend to jump in an attempt to throw the crankbait or make a hard run to pull off of the hooks. Try to keep the fish down and allow it to run while relying on your reel’s drag to surrender line. If the fish stays down, hold your rod up to keep enough pressure on the bass, but if it tries to come up drop your rod down to prevent the fish from jumping.

 

Get Awesome Baits With Mystery Tackle Box

With a Mystery Tackle Box Subscription, you’ll get a box jam packed full of baits, including limited edition baits not available anywhere else in America! You’ll also receive access to tips from our experts, how to videos, and more! With baits up to 40% off retail, this is one service every angler needs to try!

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5 Reasons You’re Getting Snagged in Laydowns by Walker Smith

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5 Reasons You’re Getting Snagged in Laydowns by Walker Smith

5 Reasons You’re Getting Snagged in Laydowns

It’s certainly no secret that big bass love to hang out in fallen trees, but it can present some challenges for anglers.

If you were to drop any red-blooded bass angler onto a random lake, we’d probably all look for some sort of wood cover. Big bass have a well known affinity for it, as it provides both shade and strategic ambush points for feeding opportunities.

I’ve guided fishing trips for quite some time and have seen many clients become frustrated while attempting to fish wood cover due to constant snags and hang-ups. Whether it’s a laydown or a brush pile, I believe these tips will greatly minimize your irritation and maximize your fish catches.

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