What's Up Archive - Wired 2 Fish

Martens injures leg...fishing on one leg today 3/11/2010 2:13:38 PM top From BASS today: The first significant non-fishing news out of Morelli Point in Stockton, Calif., this morning is the injury report: 2007 Duel in the Delta winner Aaron Martens is, in his own words "fishing on one leg." Martens, who barely made it off the dock and through the holding traffic for his morning flight, has an unidentified injury in his lower right leg, a condition that started at the Bassmaster Classic but was aggravated when the 37-year-old California native was, of all things, walking across the room at the angler meeting at the hotel last night. "This is the worst injury I've ever had in my life," Martens said. "I can't believe how much it hurts. I can't even walk -- I have to hop on one leg. "Right after we were getting our picture taken, I was just walking across the room and it felt like I pulled something. It took me 5 minutes to get up the stairs. I can't even lift my right leg at all." Martens' injury, which he thinks originally occurred while he was leaning into the trolling motor, bucking heavy current in the frigid temperatures of last month's Classic at Lay Lake, affects his lower leg, from behind his knee around to his shin. He's been able to stand on the trolling motor all week in practice, but, thinks he'll definitely be limited to the butt seat for most of the day. "My other leg is starting to get tired because I've been compensating for it," Martens said. "I have about a 30-mile run to make I should be okay getting there, because I'm able to push with the leg, but I can't bend my knee to pick up fish. "I guess I'll just see if I can fall down on the deck and grab 'em. Even that is going to be painful, though." Martens, who many have pegged as a favorite in this event, is worried that the limited mobility will hamper his fishing style as much as his ability to stand and walk. "Part of what I do best is move quickly and efficiently, but I'm not going to be able to torque it at all," he said. "I guess I'm going to have to try to take it as a positive and maybe fish more methodical. That's what I'm telling myself, anyway."
Ardent F700 Flipping Reel Winner is.... 3/11/2010 1:36:26 PM top As usual, the Wired2Fish readers stepped up in a big way on the Ardent F700 Denny Brauer Signature Series reel contest. Based on our feedback buying a technique specific reel is indeed on your radar screen. Because of the great drag system, high quality handle and aluminum frame and side panels, 8 ball bearings, 6 pin centrifugal brake system and a 3 year warranty the Ardent F700 is the choice. Its also Made in the USA. We provided your feedback to Ardent and they stepped up in a big way with a special offer to all of those that participated. We dug hard in the old fishing hat and the winner of the F700 is....... Cameron Denison Saint Charles, MO Cameron, you don't have to beg your wife any longer. Yours is on the way. To buy an Ardent F700 or other great Ardent Reel or Ardent product click here.
Elites...the season begins 3/11/2010 11:41:38 AM top The BASS Elites began this am on the California Delta and even though the weather has been cool large fish and large stringers should be on the docket. Temps in the 60's today with overcast conditions should play well for anglers who love to fish the pre-spawn. The Delta, a big fish factory, recently under fire by municipalities for its water supply should again show its true colors. Swimbaits, punching grass and frogs could be the baits of choice. Do you think the lipless crankbaits used at Lay Lake will have a role? We want to know who you think will win and on what bait. Wired readers have the moxy and know how and there might be something in it for you if you guess correctly. Send your guess on winning angler, winning weight and bait of choice to us here at feedback@wired2fish.com.
When to go lipless? 3/11/2010 9:59:14 AM top We have had the pleasure of spending time with Elite Series veteran Peter Thilveros on the water and without hesitation he is an expert on plastics and Carolina rigging. He also knows a thing or two about rattling lipless baits. There is a great article on BassTackleDepot that goes in depth with Peter T on how and when to throw them. To read this article by Andy Parsons click here.
Ike Gets Fuzzy... 3/10/2010 8:58:34 PM top It’s unlikely that Mike Iaconelli will find himself struggling for a bite while on the supremely healthy California fisheries that the Bassmaster Elite Series will call home for most of March. But it happens. In fact, it happens to the world’s best more than you probably realize. Don’t forget, things weren’t quite as rosy in Birmingham at the 2010 Bassmaster Classic. For starters, 3 inches of snow greeted Iaconelli and 50 other Bassmaster Classic competitors when they arrived in town. Overnight lows were in the 20s in the heart of Dixie, and the bass appeared to have their appetites on ice. Iaconelli didn’t get to be one of the top 10 anglers in the world by freezing up. Instead he reaches for what he calls the panic box. It’s a plastic tackle storage tray that offers a sense of calm based on contents inside that take him back to his bass club days. “The box is filled with a lot of the smaller, finesse baits and the sort of stuff we fished for trout with as a kid, and one of the baits in there is a homemade hair jig my long-time buddy Chris Dalfonso ties for me,” Iaconelli said. Dalfonso runs a driveway sealant company back home, and at times his handy work on the fly tying bench goes far in saving Ike’s bacon. “Chris and I grew up bass fishing in the Top Rod Bassmasters club, and his hair jig is not only great in really cold water, but in ‘tough water’ of any kind,” Iaconelli said. “I think Chris uses deer hair and some synthetics to tie it. What I know for sure is it gets bites when all the standard bigger stuff fails. It’s really, really light so you have to throw it on 6-pound line and use a long 7-foot, 4-inch rod to launch it. I pump it and swim it like a dying shad. As I’m lifting the rod tip, I’m pumping the rod as I lift,” explained the 2006 Toyota Tundra Bassmaster Angler of the Year winner. “It works in cold water, it works in current, and it works on schooling fish in the middle of summer. Most of all, it works during those times when all else fails.”
Cox Leads at Eufaula 3/10/2010 7:41:51 PM top Pro John Cox of Debary, Fla., landed five bass weighing 26 pounds, 13 ounces Wednesday to lead day one of the FLW Series Eastern Division tournament on Lake Eufaula. He holds a slim 12-ounce lead in the tournament featuring 152 pros and 152 co-anglers. “I took off this morning and started running up the river and ripped my skeg off,” said Cox, who led the first three days of competition during January’s FLW Series Lake Okeechobee event. “But I kept going and got to my spot and sat down and caught a 5-pounder and another one and then missed a couple. Then I ran to about 10 more spots and caught the five I weighed. “I was done by 10,” Cox added. “After that, I just completely changed it up and tried to find new areas. I caught a few other ones but nothing like I caught earlier.” Cox said he began the day by running “a pretty good ways” from the Lakepoint Resort State Park launch and caught his fish on a spinnerbait and worm. Cox said he caught 10 to 12 keepers during the course of the day. “I’ve never seen this place like this,” said Cox, who said he hadn’t fished Eufaula the past three years. “Not this size and quality of fish.” Sean Wieda of Florence, Ky., trails Cox in the No. 2 spot with five bass weighing 26-1. Rounding out the remainder of the top-10 pros after day one at Lake Eufaula are: 3rd: Alan Hults, Gautier, Miss., five bass, 24-1 4th: Mike Millsaps, Cartersville, Ga., five bass, 23-12 5th: Bryan Thrift, Shelby, N.C., five bass, 22-13 6th: Randall Tharp, Gardendale, Ala., five bass, 22-10 7th: Koby Kreiger, Okeechobee, Fla., five bass, 22-8 8th: David Walker, Sevierville, Tenn., five bass, 21-13 9th: Dwayne Horton, Knoxville, Tenn., five bass, 21-10 10th: Tracy Adams, Wilkesboro, N.C., five bass, 21-4 10th: Kevin Brumfield, Cumming, Ga., five bass, 21-4 Overall there were 640 bass weighing 1,931 pounds, 5 ounces caught by 148 pros Wednesday. The catch included 102 five-bass limits. In FLW Series competition, pros are competing for a top award of $50,000 plus valuable points in the hope of qualifying for a shot at the 2011 Forrest Wood Cup, the world championship of bass fishing. Matt Hults of Gautier, Miss., leads the Co-angler Division with five bass weighing 20-2 followed by William Ranquist Jr. of Park Ridge, Ill., in second place with five bass weighing 19-11. Hults caught his bass while fishing with pro Scott Montgomery of Eufaula, who is currently in 42nd place with five bass weighing 16-6. The remainder of the top-10 co-anglers are: 3rd: Wayne Hauser, Mooresville, N.C., five bass, 17-12 4th: Kurtis Michaux, Clermont, Fla., five bass, 17-12 5th: Jeff Cummins, Marion, Ohio, five bass, 15-1 6th: Dean Tucker, Hiawassee, Ga., five bass, 15-1 7th: Robert Kimbrough, Vero Beach, Fla., five bass, 14-4 8th: Chris Hults, Vancleave, Miss., four bass, 14-1 9th: Dylan Hays, Greenbrier, Ark., five bass, 13-13 10th: Steve Phillips, Douglas, Ga., five bass, 13-8 Overall there were 351 bass weighing 888 pounds, 14 ounces caught by 128 co-anglers Wednesday. The catch included 25 five-bass limits. Co-anglers are competing this week for a Ranger 177TR with a 90 horsepower Evinrude or Yamaha outboard motor as well as valuable points that could help them qualify for the 2011 Forrest Wood Cup. Anglers will take off from Lakepoint Resort State Park located at 104 Lakepoint Drive in Eufaula at 7 each morning. Thursday’s and Friday’s weigh-ins will also be held at Lakepoint Resort State Park beginning at 3 p.m. Saturday’s final weigh-in will be held at Billy Lawrence Chevrolet located at 3220 S. Eufaula Ave. in Eufaula beginning at 4 p.m.
Lazer TroKar joins PAA... 3/10/2010 4:40:06 PM top Lazer TroKar has joined the Professional Anglers Association as an associate sponsor of the 2010 PAA Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series presented by Carrot Stix. With input from its pro staff of Shaw Grigsby, Brent Chapman, Skeet Reese, Gerald Swindle and Jason Williamson, Lazer TroKar’s designers combined surgical precision with high-carbon cold-forged steel to create its line of hooks. The lineup includes the HD Worm, Extra Wide Gap Worm, Magworm, Flippin’, Swimbait and Drop Shot. "We are excited to be a part of the PAA program and tournaments,” said Chris Russell, Lazer TroKar’s Director of Product & Marketing. “I feel the PAA is a perfect fit for Lazer Trokar hooks because they are specifically designed to be the weapon of choice for the pro anglers. “The Professional Anglers Association gives us the chance to share this advanced hook technology and work closely with the best anglers in the world of bass fishing," Russell added. Lazer TroKar hooks will be available through special membership promotions this year including retail promotions, tournaments and other events. For more information about Lazer TroKar, visit www.lazertrokar.com
Wolverine signs with FLW... 3/10/2010 12:20:06 PM top FLW Outdoors, the world’s leading tournament fishing organization, announced Wednesday that Wolverine has signed a sponsorship deal. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed. “Wolverine is proud to enter this relationship with FLW Outdoors,” said Todd Yates, VP Marketing & GM Apparel for Wolverine. “Wolverine’s extensive range of premium products including boots, shoes, apparel and gear aligns perfectly with FLW Outdoors and the outdoors men and women who participate in outdoors-related activities.” As part of the sponsorship, Wolverine will receive exposure across all platforms of FLW Outdoors, including tournaments and other outlets. “We are proud to announce our new partnership with Wolverine and look forward to supporting and promoting their portfolio of products through the FLW platform,” said FLW Outdoors Executive Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer Trisha Blake.
Williamson signs with Bass Pro and Nitro... 3/10/2010 10:33:59 AM top Bass Pro Shops and Nitro boats have announced the signing of Bassmaster Elite Series Pro Jason Williamson from Aiken, S.C. Williamson will be running a Nitro Z-9 high performance bass boat and fishing with the new Bass Pro Shops Johnny Morris Gold Series and Johnny Morris Signature Series reels in B.A.S.S. events in 2010. “We are very excited to form this partnership with Jason,” stated Rick Emmitt, Marketing Manager of Angler Programs/Pro Staff for Bass Pro Shops/Nitro Boats. “Jason is an up and coming angler who has had great success in a relatively short professional career. This South Carolina native is a proven winner and a great fit for the Bass Pro Shops and Nitro family.” Williamson took first place at the 2009 Elite Series opener on Lake Amistead in Del Rio, Texas. He has been runner-up twice and finished in the Top 10 seven times. “I am thrilled to enter into this great partnership with Bass Pro Shops and Nitro boats,” stated Williamson. “It is a privilege to be associated with these two solid companies that are run by fishermen who have a passion for the sport like I do and understand what it takes to make tournament fishermen successful.”
Mercer is at it again... 3/10/2010 8:03:29 AM top Nothing better than a smelt sandwich? How about Facts of Fishing FYI? Brent Ehrler, Bradley Roy, Pond Smelt & Godzilla! All on Facts of Fishing FYI. To watch click here.
Crankbait Rod Meets the Hype 3/9/2010 10:59:10 PM top We recently tested the new Wright & McGill Skeet Reese Signature Series Tri-Gressive S-Glass Crankbait rod on Kentucky Lake and prespawn bass. To read the review, click here.
Lane's Pain Eased ... a Little 3/9/2010 10:02:42 PM top By Alan McGuckin If you were there in person, or you saw Russ Lane in the Bassmaster Classic Day 3 episode on ESPN 2, you surely felt the emotional dejection he felt on the final day’s weigh-in stage. Well, life just got a little brighter for the Lane family. Toyota Trucks Bonus Bucks officials just took a little of the sting away for Lane by informing him that he won a $7,500 bonus for being the highest finishing eligible Toyota Truck owner among the Classic participants. Lane, a three-time Classic qualifier was seen as one of the ‘home field favorites’ at this year’s event as well as at the 2007 Classic on Lay Lake, based on the hundreds of amateur events he competed in at Lay when honing his skills for the Bassmaster Elite Series. Lane’s beefy Day 3 catch was impressive, but left him in a heart-wrenching 4th place finishing position. Russ earned $30,000 in prize money versus VanDam’s winning $500,000 pot. Still, Lane who became eligible for the Toyota Trucks Bonus Bucks program last year when he purchased a Tundra as his tow vehicle can use the $7,500 in Bonus Bucks to buy roughly 2,630 gallons of boat and truck gas with, a hundred or so nights worth of hotel room rental fees, or a portion of his 2010 Elite Series entry fees. Cliff Pace who purchased and tows with a Tundra along the Bassmaster Elite Series trail also cashed-in at the 2010 Bassmaster Classic as an eligible member of the Toyota Trucks Bonus Bucks program. He earned $2,500 for his 14th place finish in Birmingham as the second-highest eligible Bonus Bucks participant. Ironically, Pace was the second highest Bonus Bucks participant behind Toyota Sequoia owner Alton Jones at the 2008 Bassmaster Classic. Bonus Bucks is simple. Drive a 2007 or newer Tundra, Sequoia, 4Runner or Tacoma, send in your registration form like Russ and Cliff did, become the highest finishing eligible participant in your BASS or FLW affiliated tournament – and you win the Bonus Bucks. To find out more, and to make sure you’re signed-up visit toyotatrucksbonusbucks.com or call Kendell at (918) 742-6424.
An Open Letter from Irwin Jacobs...FLW 3/9/2010 5:42:47 PM top An Open Letter Regarding FLW Outdoors There has been a great deal of discussion regarding FLW Outdoors and the sport of professional angling and I feel it is important to address the industry and hopefully put to rest any questions, concerns and rumors. First and foremost, FLW Outdoors has and will continue to do everything possible to grow our organization and the sport. While our decisions may not always be accepted and understood, I can promise you there are many things that are taken into account prior to making them. FLW Outdoors, like most other businesses, has been affected by the downturn in the economy and again, we are doing the best we can to overcome these challenging times and stay healthy for the future. Yes, this has meant cutbacks in areas of our business as well. We realize that this has had a significant impact on anglers and have done our best to listen and react as best we can. I want to encourage anglers to be aggressive and creative in finding ways to self-promote, whether through websites, social networks or within our television show and magazine whenever possible. Fans need and want individuals to support and follow. We recognize the importance of this for both the fans as well as the anglers and realize this has been difficult in the past for anglers who are not sponsor-compliant with our current logo rules. Our logo rules have played a very important and valuable role in FLW Outdoors’ history. However, the landscape of our sport has changed quite dramatically and we are in the final stages of reviewing our current logo requirements in order to help the anglers promote themselves more effectively under the FLW Outdoors umbrella. One thing that I need to set straight once and for all is this idea that “Irwin Jacobs is filling his pockets.” This simply is not true and quite the contrary. In fact, I don’t think it is a secret that I got into the fishing tournament business for the purpose of marketing and promoting the Ranger Boat Company. While this original purpose has changed since the recent purchase of Ranger, Stratos and Champion boats by Platinum Equity, I can promise you that I am as committed to growing FLW Outdoors as I was the day I bought Operation Bass 15 years ago, which ultimately was renamed FLW Outdoors. The reason for changing our name was to allow FLW Outdoors the freedom to expand into other areas besides bass fishing which is what we have done. We’ve made some significant enhancements to this year’s events as we’ve expanded our reach into the outdoors beyond just fishing. Our FLW Tour events now include Outdoor Expos offering a wide variety of booths and interactive games for our fans to visit and shop. This also offers anglers a prime opportunity to promote themselves. While fishing is at FLW Outdoors’ core, the outdoors in general brings a whole new level of opportunity and quite frankly, I am more optimistic about our future with this new focus than ever before. While it is our goal to have all aspects of our business finalized and completed prior to the start of each season, it is not always possible. We are still talking to prospective sponsors and hope to continue announcing new partners as the season continues. As always, we continue to listen to feedback from anglers, fans and sponsors, and when it makes good business sense, we’re open to making modifications. Having said this, we will be announcing some changes in the near future to better serve the anglers, fans and our sponsors, all of whom make FLW Outdoors possible. Sincerely, Irwin L. Jacobs Chairman FLW Outdoors
Berkley Trailer on the move again...heading to Maryland 3/9/2010 10:28:58 AM top The Berkley Experience Trailer will be at the Bass Pro Shops in Hanover, M.D., for the next stop in 2010. The 60-foot trailer of fun and activities brings fishing education to all skill levels of anglers. The scheduled stop for the Berkley Experience Trailer is March 12th and is set to end March 14th. The trailer has new videos and interactive demonstrations on line and bait. The Berkley Experience Team will have seminars scheduled throughout the day to cover the four main components of fishing: Line Selection Rigging Techniques for Bait Reel Maintenance Rod Selection Each stop has special retail promotions only available while the trailer is at the location. These include line, bait, rods, reels and combos. “We are excited about having the Experience Trailer on the road in 2010 and stopping at many new locations across the country,” said Andrew Marks, Sr. Marketing Manager. "Our Experience Trailer staff is ready to help anglers of all ages and skill levels learn about fishing, our products and how best to use them to catch more fish.” Other exciting elements include a knot tying contest and demonstration, where you can learn new knots and even win a prize. Under the tent, we will have racks filled with the latest products and big screen videos that help you experience the adventure with Berkley. The Berkley Experience staff is always on hand to help answer any questions that you have about our innovative products. UPCOMING BERKLEY EXPERIENCE STOPS March 12th – 14th Bass Pro Shops 7000 Arundel Mills Circle Hanover, MD 21076 March 19th – 21st Effinger’s Sporting Goods 513 West Union Ave. Bound Brook, NJ 08805
Swimbait time again...Optimum Style 3/8/2010 7:56:03 PM top The BASS Elites starts this week in the Delta and we are going out on to a limb and bet that swimbaits will play a role. Remember last year Jason Williamson parlayed a swimbait into a heavyweight win at Amistad and the season got off and running. Optimum Baits has a new swimbait that Bill Lowen, Mark Tyler and Fred Roumbanis may have in their arsenal called a Optimum BLT(Baby Line Through) that takes hooking big agressive swimmers to a new level. It always swims true and many times the bait will slide up the line keeping it from bunching up on the hook on big fish. The Baby Line Thru is designed to fish with a moderate to fast retrieve and the tail kick imitates fleeing bait. The BLT features an irresistible tight wobble and roll and is perfect for locating fish quickly by fan casting in the shallows or slowly dragging in deeper areas. The Delta and Clear Lake should be prime for this type of technique as bass should be in pre-spawn, spawn and post spawn. The 3” BLT is worked best with a medium action rod about 6’6” -7’ on 8-14lb line while the 5” should be fished with a 7’ medium heavy rod and 14-20lb line. The BLT will catch bass from coast to coast and because of its two sizes can be fished for both largemouth and smallmouth bass. To learn more and watch some killer videos click here.
Kriet Attributes Line to Success 3/8/2010 4:32:58 PM top Bassmaster photo Off of back-to-back second-place finishes on the Bassmaster Elite Series, Jeff Kriet, attributed much of his success to having good quality line in his arsenal. Kriet fished an extremely solid tournament over the three days in some of the toughest conditions ever in Bassmaster Classic history. With a slim lead after the second day of competition, Kriet finished the event in second place with 46 pounds, 6 ounces. A big part of Kriet’s success on Lay Lake was his line choice. Kriet was using HI-SEAS brand new four-color camouflage Quattro 100% Fluorocarbon line and HI-SEAS original 100% Fluorocarbon line. “At Lay Lake, a big part of my deal was being able to make really long throws on pressured fish,” said Kriet. “When I hooked a fish, the thought of breaking off never crossed my mind. When I hooked up, I knew that fish was mine. Both 15-pound HI-SEAS 100% Fluorocarbon line and the new Quattro 100% Fluorocarbon line paved my way to a second place finish on lay lake.” “Jeff is a first rate angler," said Mike Shields, HI-SEAS Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "His professionalism and experience as an angler are commendable. We are excited for Jeff and his accomplishment at the 2010 Bassmaster Classic and are proud to have Jeff as a member of the HI-SEAS team.” HI-SEAS released the new, four- color camouflage Quattro 100% Fluorocarbon line as an addition to their extremely high quality family of lines in September of 2009. “The biggest part of competing against the highest caliber anglers is having confidence in your tools. One of my key tools is HI-SEAS line. With it, I know I have the best line available. My line is probably the most critical tool I have, since it’s the direct connection with the fish. I can tell it’s the best line available.”
Open Sign-ups Begin Today for PAA 3/8/2010 4:22:30 PM top Open registration begins today (Monday, Mar. 8th) for any angler wishing to participate in the 2010 PAA Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series that begins in July. Open call-in dates are March 8-12 for all anglers who plan to sign up for all four PAA Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series events this season. This is the third of four registration periods. Tournament entry fees are $2,500 per event with a $750 deposit per event. Tournaments this season will include PAA member observers who will have chances to win prizes based on their pro’s performance, as well as a chance to compete in an all new Pro-Am format on Saturday. Details of both programs will be announced soon. 2010 PAA Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series Schedule: July 8-10: Lake Cherokee, Morristown, Tenn. Aug. 12-14:* Lake Norman, Charlotte, N.C. Sept. 9-11: Lake Tawakoni, Garland, Texas Oct. 14-16: Table Rock Lake, Branson, Mo. Tournament format: • 30 day off-limits before first practice day (no info and not on water) • 3-day official practice (Sunday- Tuesday)* • 1 off day (Wednesday) for registration and other activities* • 3-day tournament (Thursday- Saturday) • Full field the first two days • Top 30 will fish the final day and weigh in at Bass Pro Shops store • Pro only – must be a TOUR level member of PAA to fish any tournament in 2010 – anglers can become a TOUR level member of PAA upon registering for the Series events • Member Observers all three days *To accommodate anglers competing in the Forrest Wood Cup, the official practice period for Lake Norman will begin Monday (8/9/10) instead of Sunday, with no off day prior to competition. To register, contact the PAA office at (270) 527-2030.
Spro offers pro clothing... 3/8/2010 4:08:25 PM top Dress like a Spro Pro with Spro Clothing... Spro is pleased to announce they have partnered with ProStaff Gear and a new website to offer some exciting new Spro branded clothing. Check out new t-shirts and hoodies featuring Little Johns, Bronzeye Frogs and Spro logo gear. Big Bite Baits, Jewel and Sunline apparel is also available. Check out all the new clothing by clicking here.
Brauer and the Smoking Rooster... 3/8/2010 2:08:58 PM top Check out this video with Denny Brauer and the Strike King Smokin' Rooster. You need to check out the sleeves on his shirt too. Trash talking Brauer style on the Strike King Pro Team Journal. Click here to view.
Minn Kota Rich Media... 3/8/2010 10:52:27 AM top One of the cool new features of the 2.0 Wired2Fish website is rich media. Minn Kota was the first to take advantage of this technology on Wired. All you have to do is roll your mouse over the Minn Kota ad, click on the video link and it will open up to videos, information and much more. Be on the lookout for more great features on Wired2Fish.com.
Oakley Big Bass Tour joins Wired2Fish... 3/8/2010 8:21:10 AM top The Oakley Big Bass Tour, sponsored by Oakley Sunglasses, has joined Wired2Fish as an advertiser for 2010. The Oakley Big Bass Tour is a premier big bass tournament series open to all amateur anglers. The Oakley Big Bass Tour will provide anglers of all skill levels with an exciting tournament format on some of the nations best bass fisheries. Established in 2007 the Oakley Big Bass Tour is focused on the promotion of bass fishing and bass conservation at the grass roots level through our tournament events. The Oakley O-Lab, a state of the art mobile eyewear lab, will be on site at the events to show what makes Oakley Sunglasses the leader in premium quality sunglasses. Just ask KVD and Dean Rojas. March 13-14, 2010 the first event will be held on Lake Conroe in Texas. For more on the Oakley Big Bass Tour click here.
Barnes Toad... 3/7/2010 3:32:23 PM top Lake Fork Tackle owner Ronnie Parker sent us this picture of Larry Barnes and his 10.5 pound largie from Lake Fork on March 5. He caught it on a Chatterbait with a Lake Fork Live Magic Shad trailer. This is Texas? Looks cold but what a fish.
Lane on Tour... 3/7/2010 3:18:57 PM top Elite Series pro Russ Lane has a new blog on the Big Bite Baits website that will chronicle his days on the Tour. To read click here.
Ehrler Wins Big on Table Rock 3/6/2010 6:12:23 PM top Photo by Rob Newell for FLWOutdoors.com (see their great coverage of the event here). Brent Ehrler put up one of the most impressive wins in FLW Tour history today on Table Rock Lake. Not only was his 69-11 amazing for four days on a very tough fishery in very tough conditions, but the ease in which he did it was remarkable. Not to mention he just drove back from the west coast where he notched a win out there. So it's the first week of March and Mr. Ehrler has already made nearly $175,000 for the year. Look for an in-depth interview with Brent later this week on what makes him tick and why his game has elevated so much in recent years. Think about this for a second. Ehrler beat second place by 13 pounds, 2 ounces. Which Ron Shuffield had an amazing tournament in his own right. Yet, Ehrler beat fifth place finisher Greg Pugh, by 31 pounds. Simply amazing. Ehrler of Redlands, Calif., caught a five-bass limit weighing 16 pounds, 13 ounces Saturday to win $127,500 at the FLW Tour event presented by Cabela’s on Table Rock Lake with a four-day catch of 20-bass weighing 69-1 The catch gave him the win by a solid 13-pound, 2-ounce margin over Ron Shuffield of Bismarck, Ark., who caught a total of five bass weighing 17-10 and earned $40,000. For the tournament, Shuffield caught 18 bass for a total weight of 56-9. “I found a magical spot,” said Ehrler, who is on fire with back-to-back wins having won at Lake Shasta in January. “I was in a creek on the White River and it was a perfect pre-spawn area. It was the first creek bend the fish came to and the fish seemed to be suspended there just above the trees. I was keeping my boat in 30-35 feet of water and then casting to about 12-15 feet. “I caught the majority of my fish using a Yamamoto Curly Tail Grub. I was experimenting a little bit with Lucky Craft DD jerkbaits, which is what I caught my 6-pounder on Thursday with, but the majority came using the grub.” Colder than normal water temperatures made the fish do strange things and hide in strange locations making one of the best fishing lakes in the country an even bigger challenge for some of the best anglers. Ehrler was the only angler at Table Rock to catch a limit each day. Ehrler opened the tournament in third place Wednesday with five bass weighing 16-6 while fishing in the White River. On Thursday, he added another five bass weighing 22-2 using a Lucky Craft DD 100 jerkbait to catch his 6-pounder to capture the lead. He then caught five bass weighing 14-6 on Friday to make the crucial top-5 cut in first place. On Saturday he sealed his victory using the same 5-inch Yamamoto grubs he used throughout the tournament. The remaining top-five pros finished the tournament in: 3^rd: Mike Wurm, Hot Springs, Ark., 16 bass, 46-6, $30,000 4^th: Bryan Thrift, Shelby, N.C., 15 bass, 44-1, $20,000 5^th: Greg Pugh, Cullman, Ala., 13 bass, 38-8, $18,000
Purdue Bests Bull Shoals 3/6/2010 5:57:50 PM top The Purdue University team of Chad Dunham and Alex Lowe won the National Guard FLW College Fishing Central Division event on Bull Shoals Lake Saturday with three bass weighing 7 pounds, 8 ounces. The victory earned the team $10,000 to be split evenly between the university and the university’s bass-fishing club. The win also helped them advance to the Central Division Regional Championship where they could ultimately win a Ranger 177TR with a 90-horsepower engine wrapped in school colors for their school’s club and $25,000 for the school they represent. “It was tough, but we just kept chuggin’,” Dunham said. “We started out deep, moved around a little, had some boat trouble, got through that and just kept going. “I started the day using jerkbaits and YUM Money Minnows in deep water and nothing was happening so we moved to the mouth of the cove to try up there, still nothing. Then my partner put on a Storm Wiggle Wart and got a fish, so I decided to try it too and was able to get two more with the Wiggle Wart and luckily that’s all we needed.” Only 21 teams weighed in today, however many were just happy to be fishing on an ice free lake including the team from Purdue University. “This was my first time on Bull Shoals and my first FLW Outdoors tournament,” Lowe said. “We are so surprised to be in first spot-with only three bass. We came to the scales just hoping to make the top-5, but to actually win, what a thrill.” Rounding out the top five teams today were Winona State University – Jerry Jonsgaard and Zac Cassill (one bass 4-13, $5,000); Henderson State – Justin Westfall and Michael Jennings (one bass, 4-8, $4,000); Southeast Missouri State – Andrew Pinkley and Jim McDevitt (two bass, 4-7, $3,000); Truman State University – Mike McCarthy, Jr., and Spencer Clark (two bass, 4-6, $2,000).
Burgess Back for Seconds 3/6/2010 8:20:12 AM top For the second consecutive year, Massachusetts pro Mark Burgess will follow his dreams on the Bassmaster Elite Series, and for the second time, he will also chronicle his season through a journal on ESPNOutdoors.com. The journal will feature the ups and downs of life on the road for a sophomore pro trying to gain a foothold in the ultra competitive world of professional bass fishing. “I just want to be able to share my experiences of what it is like to fish at this level and what life is like on the road for a professional bass angler,” Burgess said. “I think the journal is a great way to provide inspiration to those who have aspirations of becoming a professional angler.” After a rookie campaign that was occasionally thrilling but often frustrating, Burgess spent the winter evaluating where he needed to improve his game. In addition to assessing necessary on-the-water improvements, he worked hard to gain new sponsors. Those include Storage Max, a climate-controlled self-storage chain in New England and Purple Turtle Productions, a regional film production company. Mark is also beginning a new relationship with a company called BioEdge, a company which specializes in scents. He’ll be using their products for the first time in California. He added those two new partners to his existing group of corporate sponsors – companies including Skeeter, Yamaha, Reaction Strike, Minn Kota, Humminbird, Bass Boat Saver, Power Pole, and Costa. After years in the business as a company rep, he understands how the industry works. Follow Mark’s no-holds-barred account of his season online, with new entries posted after each Elite Series tournament along with selected Open-level events. For more information about Mark Burgess, go to markburgessfishing.com. For more information about B.A.S.S., go to bassmaster.com.
Ehrler on Cruise Control into the Finals 3/6/2010 8:11:04 AM top Melton Wins Co-Angler Title, $25,000 National Guard pro Brent Ehrler of Redlands, Calif., caught a five-bass limit weighing 14 pounds, 6 ounces Friday to maintain the lead at the FLW Tour event presented by Cabela’s on Table Rock Lake, advancing to the top five as the crucial No. 1 seed. With a three-day catch of 15 bass weighing 52-14 he now holds a 13-pound, 15-ounce lead in the tournament going in to the final day of competition. “I feel very fortunate,” said Ehrler, who will be making his 21st top-10 appearance which includes six tour wins in just five years. “I have never been in this position before (leading by nearly 14 pounds). I saw FLW Tour pro David Fritts go into the final day of competition with an 18-20 pound lead, and I thought, 'wow, that would be real nice.' Now, I’m just real nervous.” Ehrler fished the same underwater point all week long and hoped it would hold out one more day. It’s a staging area right now, and the fish are just waiting there for the water to warm up. It’s an area that goes from deep to shallow with a lot of timber and rocks. He has been enjoying an incredible early bite and really hasn’t caught any keepers past noon. All but about 5 pounds of his total weight have come from this magical area. Rounding out the top-5 pros and advancing to the final day’s competition are: 2nd: Ron Shuffield, Bismarck, Ark., five bass, 14-4 for a three-day total of 13 bass, 38-15 3rd: Bryan Thrift, Shelby, N.C., four bass, 9-14 for a three-day total of 14 bass, 38-14 4th: Greg Pugh, Cullman, Ala., four bass, 9-5 for a three-day total of 13 bass, 38-8 5th: Mike Wurm, Hot Springs, Ark., three bass, 7-9 for a three-day total of 13 bass, 37-12 The rest of the top-10 pros include some of the greatest anglers in the world and they are: 6th: National Guard pro Scott Martin, Clewiston, Fla., 10 bass, 35-14, $17,000 7th: Mark Rose, Marion, Ark., 14 bass, 34-9, $16,000 8th: Andy Morgan, Dayton, Tenn., 13 bass, 33-6, $15,000 9th: Adam Wagner, Cookeville, Tenn., 13 bass, 32-4, $14,000 10th: Folgers pro Scott Suggs, Bryant, Ark., 12 bass, 31-11, $13,000 Overall there were 238 bass weighing 600 pounds, 1 ounce caught by 148 pros Friday. The catch included only 11 five-bass limits. Pros are competing for a top award of up to $125,000 this week plus valuable points in the hope of qualifying for the Forrest Wood Cup which will be held Aug. 5- 8 at Lake Lanier in Atlanta, Ga., where they could win as much as $600,000 – the sport’s biggest award. Shane Melton of Greentown, Ind., won the Co-angler Division and $25,000 Friday with a three-day total of 9 bass weighing 26 pounds, 10 ounces followed by Brad Roberts of Nancy, Ky., in second place with 8 bass weighing 26-1 worth $9,862. Melton opened the tournament in first place and never looked back. On Wednesday he had the only five-bass limit weighing 13-9 while fishing with pro Bryan Thrift of Shelby, N.C. On Thursday, he maintained the lead on the strength of three bass weighing 6-15 while fishing with pro Mark Rose of Marion, Ark. He sealed the win Friday with only one-bass weighing 6-2 while fishing with pro Chad Morgenthaler of Coulterville, Ill. “I have been nervous all day,” said Melton, who earned his first FLW Tour co-angler victory. “I just had a great week, I got to fish with my heroes, some of the best anglers in the world, and I am just thrilled. I was so nervous up on stage I forgot my wife’s name! I still can’t believe it! Fishing is my peace. Phenomenal is the only way to describe this week.” While fishing with three different pros one of the only things that remained consistent for Melton was his bait. He caught all his fish using Mann’s Sting Ray Grub in deep water. Rounding out the top-10 co-anglers are: 3rd: Mark Myers, Cedar Falls, Iowa, seven bass, 18-13, $7,395 4th: Van Roy Foster, Jr., Dalton, Ga., five bass, 16-5, $4,928 5th: Sean Stepp, Stafford, Va., five bass, 16-4, $3,942 6th: Todd Lee, Jasper, Ala., five bass, 15-9, $2,955 7th: Teddy Bradley, Mishawaka, Ind., seven bass, 15-6, $2,462 8th: Mike Foree, Osage Beach, Mo., six bass, 13-12, 1,968 9th: Jerry Willis, Atlanta, Ga., five bass, 13-4, $1,722 10th: Chad Parks, Olive Branch, Miss., six bass, 13-2, $1,475 Co-anglers are also fishing for valuable points that could help them qualify for the 2010 Forrest Wood Cup. Overall there were 83 bass weighing 227 pounds, 10 ounces caught by 148 co-anglers Friday. The catch included only one five-bass limit.
Choosing the BEST reel for the job... 3/5/2010 11:34:06 AM top Today on Wired Radio with Terry Brown Quantum's Chris Strickland talks about reel specifics and choosing the right reel for the job. To listen click here.
Clark Wendlandt joins Cabela’s 3/5/2010 10:51:43 AM top Three-time FLW Angler of the Year joins Cabela’s winning team Professional angler Clark Wendlandt has signed on to become part of Cabela’s Pro Staff team. In 2009, Wendlandt was named FLW Angler of the Year for the third time, more than any other angler on the FLW Tour, ranking him among the most successful tournament bass anglers in history. As a member of Cabela’s Pro Staff, Wendlandt will serve as an ambassador of the company and the sport of professional angling, appearing at Cabela’s retail stores and other events. He will also guest host episodes of Cabela’s Ultimate Adventures television show and promote Cabela’s throughout his travels. While on the water, Wendlandt will use Cabela’s-brand products and run a Ranger boat wrapped with Cabela’s graphics. His knowledge and on-the-water experience are incredible assets to Cabela’s field-tested, field-proven product development process. Wendlandt holds the record for the most semifinal appearances in FLW history – 34, and is a three-time FLW tournament champion. In addition to being the only three-time Angler of the Year, he has finished in the top 10 in the overall yearly standings eight times. He has qualified for the FLW Championship 12 times and finished in the top 10 six times. Clark Wendlandt lives in Leander, Texas, with his wife and two children.
Fork Bigun... 3/5/2010 10:46:29 AM top Yesterday, March 4, Brent Homan of the Army Bass Anglers caught this 10.2-pound hog on Lake Fork, Texas while fishing with Pro angler Mark Pack. Brent caught her on a 3/8-ounce Phenix Vibrator jig with a 3 1/2-inch Lake Fork Trophy Lures Live Magic Shad trailer, both jig and shad were in the new sun perch color. It is Brent's personal best fish. Nice fish Brent.
Gemini increases college involvement... 3/5/2010 7:23:46 AM top Careco Multimedia announced today that Gemini Sport Marketing is returning as a sponsor of the 2010 BoatU.S. Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship Series. "As a long time supporter of tournament anglers, Gemini is making a major contribution to the future of tournament bass fishing as a result of supporting collegiate fishing", said Wade Middleton, tournament director. "Gemini's discount pricing and incentive programs allow collegiate anglers to show off their school pride, promote sponsors and be rewarded at the same time. We're proud to continue our partnership with such an outstanding company." Every sport has a uniform and bass fishing is no different. Customized, high performance jerseys allow bass anglers to look sharp, effectively promote sponsors and remain comfortable while enduring the rigors of tournament fishing. With help from Gemini Sport Marketing, collegiate anglers are able to showcase their school logo and colors, along with sponsor logos on their jerseys. "These anglers are able to get the jerseys the pros wear on a college budget," said Brad Raymond, Gemini Sport Marketing vice president. Gemini makes this possible through a discount purchasing program that allows the student anglers to order all apparel at a 20% discount with all artwork and setup fees waived. For example, Extreme Dye Sublimation (XDS) G2 Gemini jerseys are available to collegiate anglers at a cost of only $76. Raymond also explained that Gemini has created a new incentive program for the 2010 BoatU.S. Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship Series: "The highest placing team in each qualifying event that wears G2 Gemini jerseys with our logo displayed will receive (1) each, custom sublimated performance hooded sweatshirt to match their tournament jerseys. These have a retail value of $120 each. The top 3 placing teams at the 2010 BoatU.S. Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship will receive custom hoodies as well. These student anglers are great ambassadors to the sport and we are proud to have them wear G2 Gemini jerseys." For more information about all of Gemini's products, visit www.geminisportmarketing.com.
Ehrler Having Fun and Taking Names 3/4/2010 7:51:34 PM top Trees Have Been Key for Both Day One and Day Two Leaders National Guard pro Brent Ehrler of Redlands, Calif., caught a five-bass limit weighing 22 pounds, 2 ounces Thursday to capture the lead on day two of the FLW Tour event presented by Cabela’s on Table Rock Lake. His two-day catch of 10 bass weighing 38-pounds, 8-ounces gives him a commanding lead in the tournament which features 148 pros and 148 co-anglers from across the United States. “I can’t wait to go fishing tomorrow, I am just so excited,” said Ehrler, who is coming off an FLW Series National Guard Western Division win at Lake Shasta in January. “I had a great day today. I found two great areas and wanted to quit at noon. I also had a couple of random lucky bites that really helped me tip the scales this afternoon.” Ehrler fished an underwater point and said he fished hundreds of spots like it, but none with the amount of fish he saw here. The area is a ledge with plenty of brush and trees. He is using reaction baits to haul in his limit. “I haven’t had a chance to pick the area apart yet, so I haven’t figured out what makes it so special," he said. "The area is full of fish, and I am getting a lot of bites with some big ones mixed in. Although I did not get my big one in that area today, I know they are there. I am looking forward to fishing it tomorrow and hopefully wearing it out on Saturday." “I have never had more fun netting fish than today,” said Ehrler’s co-angler, Ken Keirsey of Owasso, Okla. who currently sits tied for 67th place. “And truth be told, he wanted to quit at eight! He is just an awesome angler and so much fun to fish with. I had a great time.” Mike Wurm of Hot Springs, Ark., is in second on the pro side with a two-day total of 10 bass weighing 30-3. “I’m just doing what I love to do,” Wurm said. “I’m using a finesse jig with a spinner rod and 10-pound braid line. “I am being very slow and deliberate with my presentation. If you’re barely moving, you’re moving too much. I am running about 45 miles to an area with a stretch of three to four banks that have worked well for me so far this week. I am just hoping it holds up. As we all know anything can happen at Table Rock Lake. Someone could bring in a 22- to 25-pound catch and blow us all out of the water.” Rounding out the top-10 pros after day two on Table Rock Lake are: 3rd: Greg Pugh, Cullman, Ala., four bass, 10-8 for a two day total of nine bass, 29-3 4th: Bryan Thrift, Shelby, N.C., five bass, 14-3 for a two day total of 10 bass, 29-0 5th: Chevy pro Dion Hibdon, Stover, Mo., five bass, 21-2 for a two day total of seven bass, 25-10 6th: National Guard pro Scott Martin, Clewiston, Fla., two bass 11-1 for a two day total of seven bass, 25-8 7th: Robert Harkness, Elizabeth, W.Va., five bass, 13-5 for a two day total of 10 bass, 25-7 8th: Mark Rose, Marion, Ark., five bass, 12-13 for a two day total of 10 bass, 25-0 9th: Joe Thomas, Milford, Ohio, three bass, 9-8 for a two day total of eight bass, 24-15 10th: Ron Shuffield, Bismarck, Ark., five bass, 15-6 for a two day total of eight bass, 24-11 Overall there were 232 bass weighing 648 pounds, caught on the pro side Thursday. The catch included 12 five-bass limits. FLW Outdoors sports a full field consisting of 150 of the nation’s top pro anglers who will compete in the entire 2010 FLW Tour season. Due to family emergencies two pros had to drop out of the Table Rock event where anglers are competing for a top award of up to $125,000, which will still be based on the full 150 boat field and will feature a full payback through 50th place. Anglers are also vying for valuable points in the hope of qualifying for the Forrest Wood Cup. This year’s Cup will be held Aug. 5- 8 at Lake Lanier in Atlanta, Ga., where pros could win as much as $600,000 – the sport’s biggest award. Shane Melton of Greentown, Ind., has a narrow lead in the Co-angler Division with two-day total of eight bass weighing 20 pounds, 8 ounces, followed by Brad Roberts of Nancy, Ky., in second place with six bass weighing 19-9. “I have been very fortunate to have drawn two anglers that are the best in the business,” Melton said. “Yesterday was amazing and I am just excited to go back out there tomorrow.” Melton caught five bass weighing 13-9 while fishing with pro Bryan Thrift of Shelby, N.C., Wednesday and three bass weighing 6-15 while fishing with pro Mark Rose of Marion, Ark., Thursday. Second place Roberts weighed in a monster bag at 16 pounds and 9 ounces. “We started in dirty water about eight to 10-feet deep,” said Roberts, who was fishing with pro Jason Cordiale of Orinda, Calif. “I caught a big fish early so my pro and I knew we were in an area that had fish and we just tried to key in on them. I was using a Cumberland Pro 3/8” casting jig in an oops color. I actually culled twice.” Rounding out the top-10 co-anglers are: 3rd: Todd Lee, Jasper, Ala., one bass, 4-2 for a two day total of four bass, 13-0 4th: Darrell Mitchell, Taneyville, Mo., zero bass for a two day total of four bass, 12-10 5th: Mike Foree, Osage Beach, Mo., three bass, 6-13 for a two day total of five bass, 11-10 6th: Chad Parks, Olive Branch, Miss., one bass, 2-7 for a two day total of five bass, 11-3 7th: Teddy Bradley, Mishawaka, Ind., one bass, 2-0 for a two day total of five bass, 10-13 8th: Jason Law, Waycross, Ga., one bass, 3-0 for a two day total of two bass, 9-10 9th: Steve Meador, Bella Vista, Ark., two bass, 3-11 for a two day total of five bass, 9-5 10th: Sean Stepp, Stafford, Va., zero bass for a two day total of two bass, 8-13 Overall there were 76 bass weighing 199 pounds, 2 ounces caught by the co-anglers Thursday. The catch included one five-bass limit. See flwoutdoors.com for more details.
T-H Marine joins PAA... 3/4/2010 6:16:07 PM top T-H Marine Supplies, one of the most recognized companies in fishing and the marine industry, has joined the Professional Anglers Association as an associate sponsor of the 2010 PAA Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series. The popular T-H Marine Supplies “Atlas Jackplate” will be the Official Jackplate of the PAA and will be featured on prize boat packages. Special pricing through the PAA Affinity Partner Program also will be available to members. “I know just about all of the pro anglers and a lot of the tournament anglers who aspire to greater things,” said Bill Huntley with T-H Marine Supplies. “We believe the PAA is striving to meet its stated goals for the anglers. We’ve been pleased with our association with the PAA for the last couple of years.” T-H Marine Supplies has “thousands of items,” Huntley said, from the small but necessary drain plugs and aerator heads to the larger and more visible Atlas Jackplate and Hot-Foot throttle system. Along with its OEM work that comprises the majority of its business, T-H Marine Supplies also has a successful after-market business. “The things people think are just ‘parts’ are important and there are a lot of them in a boat,” Huntley said. “They’re all important in one way or another. We’re glad to be part of the marine industry and look forward to continuing our association with the PAA and its members.” The PAA and T-H Marine Supplies will have special membership promotions throughout the season. T-H Marine Supplies also will showcase its products and pro staff anglers at retail promotions, tournament weigh-ins and other events.
Ehrler takes Day Two Lead in a Big Way... 3/4/2010 5:58:41 PM top FLW pro and Wired2Fish angler Brent Ehrler took a commanding lead at the FLW Tour Event on Table Rock Lake with 38-08 pounds. His weight today was 22-02 pounds. In second place is Arkansas angler Mike Wurm with 30-03 pounds. In third is 1st day leader Greg Pugh with 29-03. A full story will follow.
KVD on the air... 3/4/2010 3:23:29 PM top Today on Wired Radio with Terry Brown 2010 Bassmaster Classic Champion Kevin VanDam talks about the competition on the Elite Series, what it means to him to get his third win and how he approached the tournament from a strategy standpoint. To listen click here.
Nothing but Net 3/4/2010 2:26:48 PM top Checkout our latest review of a slick new net -- the Frabill Hibernet. Click here to read more.
Rojas joins Oakley... 3/4/2010 12:21:55 PM top Elite Series pro and "Frog King" Dean Rojas has landed Oakley Eyewear as a new sponsor for 2010. He solidified the deal at the Bassmaster Classic. "I am super pumped to be working with the makers of the best eyewear in the world and excited about what 2010 will bring as a result" said Rojas. Rojas is one of the best bed fishing anglers on tour and his teaming with Oakley could even make him tougher. To learn more about Oakley click here.
Pugh leads Day One on Tough Table Rock... 3/4/2010 9:45:02 AM top FLW photo FLW Outdoors pro Greg Pugh of Cullman, Ala., crossed the stage Wednesday with a 5-bass limit weighing 18 pounds, 11 ounces to lead day one of the FLW Tour event on Table Rock Lake presented by Cabela’s. Pugh holds a 1-pound, 13-ounce lead in the tournament featuring 296 anglers from all across the country. “The bite’s not easy, but it is good when you finally get one, you know it!” said Pugh, who is out for revenge after last year’s dismal 140^th place finish. “I was fortunate enough to find one spot where I got four big bites, including my 6 1/2 – pounder. “I ran quite a ways today, about an hour ride; I found an area that was thick with trees and big fish. I just hope it holds out for the next couple of days. As a matter of fact the vegetation was so thick I actually had four bites that broke off and I was using 20 pound fluorocarbon line. I caught 11 keepers, culled a couple of times and missed several.” Many of today’s top anglers were scratching their heads as they crossed the stage. The cold water temperatures have made for a very slow bite and they are hoping they will be able to make the necessary adjustments to help improve their showing tomorrow. Rounding out the top-10 pros after day one on Table Rock Lake are: 2^nd: Mike Wurm, Hot Springs, Ark., 5 bass, 16-14 3^rd: National Guard pro Brent Ehrler, Redlands, Calif., 5 bass, 16-6 4^th: Brian Travis, Conover, N.C., 4 bass, 16-4 5^th: Joe Thomas, Milford, Ohio, 5 bass, 15-7 6^th: Bryan Thrift, Shelby, N.C., 5 bass, 14-13 7^th: David Walker, Sevierville, Tenn., 5 bass, 14-12 8^th: Goodwill pro Wesley Strader, Spring City, Tenn., 4 bass, 14-10 9^th: National Guard pro Scott Martin, Clewiston, Fla., 5 bass, 14-7 10^th: Adam Wagner, Cookeville, Tenn., 5-bass, 12-10 Overall there were 274 bass weighing 753 pounds, 7 ounces caught by 148 pros Thursday. The catch included only 14 five-bass limits. FLW Outdoors sports a full field consisting of 150 pro anglers for the 2010 FLW Tour season. Due to family emergencies two pros had to drop out of the Table Rock event where anglers are competing for a top award of up to $125,000, which is based on the full 150 boat field, which will feature a full payback through 50^th place. Anglers are also vying for valuable points in the hope of qualifying for the Forrest Wood Cup. This year’s Cup will be held Aug. 5- 8 at Lake Lanier in Atlanta, Ga., where pros could win as much as $600,000 – the sport’s biggest award. Shane Melton of Greentown, Ind., leads the Co-angler Division with five bass weighing 13-9 followed by Darrell Mitchell of Taneyville, Mo., in second place with five bass weighing 12-10. Melton took the early lead in the tournament while fishing with Chad Morgenthaler of Coulterville, Ill., who is currently in 70^th place with one bass weighing 4-14. “I was using the right bait and got lucky,” said second place Mitchell, who was fishing with pro Jason Cordiale of Orinda, Calif. “We were each doing our own thing and I happened to get lucky. “I caught my fish using a PJ jig with a grub; grubs seem to be the cold water bait. I was really surprised at my weight. We were out here this weekend for practice and I didn’t get one bite; I am feeling very fortunate today.” Rounding out the top-10 co-anglers are: 3^rd: Todd Lee, Jasper, Ala., 3 bass, 8-14 4^th: Teddy Bradley, Mishawaka, Ind., 4 bass, 8-13 4^th: Sean Stepp, Stafford, Va., 2 bass, 8-13 6^th: Chad Parks, Olive Branch, Miss., 4 bass, 8-12 7^th: Eugene Robinett, Springfield, Mo., 3 bass, 8-2 8^th: Mike Jones, Lebanon, Mo., 3 bass, 7-7 8^th: Mike Simonds, Watertown, Wis., 2 bass, 7-7 10^th: Jerry Thompson, Peoria, Ariz., 4 bass, 7-5 Overall there were 94 bass weighing 246 pounds, 4 ounces caught by 148 co-anglers Wednesday. The catch included only one five-bass limit.
Chrome is the New Black 3/3/2010 6:37:58 PM top By Jason Sealock Trends present themselves in every part of our life. Trends in fashion, in health and in music seem to dictate some folks lives. Wired2Fish anglers are guilty of the same with tackle. We follow fishing trends, one because it leads to good story material, but also because we're avid "fish heads." To be a versatile and effective angler, always look for what is working in different parts of the country to see how it can apply to fishing near home. New trends in fishing are generally the results of anglers saying the same things to a lot of different parties. Swimbaits were the hot trend several years ago. A couple years ago Jackall and Seiji Kato introduced us to flick shaking with Kato winning the co-angler division of a Bassmaster Elite Series tournament on Lake Amistad and later creating the Jackall Flick Shake worm. Of course most know what Kelly Jordon did to put big spoons on the map with his exploits on Ultimate Match Fishing, something over which Kentucky Lake guides are still angry with him. Occasionally colors trend. A couple years ago Strike King and Kevin VanDam introduced the world to Sexy Shad. It was simply a shad pattern with a sky blue back and a chartreuse strip down the side. From that moment and the amazing demand that followed, every manufacturer in the world started making baits in similar shad, blue and chartreuse schemes. Custom painters still do a ton of business with their versions of Sexy Shad. The key isn't in seeing these things a year after they happen. Rather the ability to forecast that they're coming and know that there's something to all the hype will put a savvy angler ahead of the game on his local waters. This year I've noticed at least three manufacturers added chrome varieties to their lineups. I'm not saying all the sudden chrome is going to be cool again. But I think while it lingered in obscurity for several years, there has been enough demand by anglers at some level to prompt manufacturers to get on the "chrome" band wagon again. Lucky Craft introduced a chrome version of their popular Gunfish topwater bait. The bait looks sleek and effective. This bait in this color will be a killer in the southeast on lakes like Murray, Russell, Clarks Hill, and Lanier. Tru-Tungsten added chrome to their line-up of Tru Life swimbaits. The offer them in blue back and black back options, and I see them being viable in the same situations. I'm curious if they will make swimbaits a little more effective in dingy water. Strike King made sexy even sexier. They threw a chrome background behind their Sexy Shad pattern in both gold and silver hues. And it's well documented what Mr. VanDam did with the gold version a couple weeks ago on Lay Lake. In my fishing I really only use chrome in two places, jerkbaits and lipless baits. But I can definitely see where it has applications in swimbaits, topwaters and even crankbaits. The popularity of the big chrome spoons might have helped put chrome back on the map. Who knows, but I look for a lot more chrome to come into several line-ups this season. I'm anxious to know where chrome plays a vital role in your fishing. Sound off on our Facebook fan page and let us and the manufacturers know where chrome is hot and where you desperately need it in your fishing arsenal. A few custom painters make some sick chrome paint schemes, check out FLW Outdoors Magazine's blog about one such painter here. I can already sense some chrome fishing clothing about to hit the scene. Soon we'll need our own fashion runway to keep up with fishing clothing trends.
Seaguar joins Wired2Fish... 3/3/2010 3:19:32 PM top Seaguar Line has joined Wired2Fish as an advertiser for 2010. Known for having some of the best fluorocarbon line in fishing Seaguar will be introducing TATSU line in promotions, contests and advertising with Wired2Fish. "Wired readers will be the beneficiaries of Seaguars industry wherewithal, products and information for months ahead and we are proud to have them join us here at Wired2Fish.com," said Terry Brown, President, Wired2Fish.
10 Questions with Elite Rookie Bradley Roy... 3/3/2010 9:42:19 AM top By John Neporadny Ten Questions with Elite Series Rookie Bradley Roy Bradley Roy won the Junior Bassmaster World Championship in 2004 and this year he will be the first junior world champion to fish in the Bassmaster Elite Series. The following questions address his thoughts on his accomplishments, the Junior Bassmaster program and the high school bass fishing movement. 1. How does it feel to be the first Junior Bassmaster World Champion to compete in the Bassmaster Elite Series? Roy: It is exciting. I am a product of the whole program and to be the first one to do it—and I know I won’t be the last-- is an exciting thing. 2. What have you learned from the junior program that helped you reach the Elite Series? Roy: Learning the basics of being a tournament fisherman, the A to Z basic tournament stuff such as preparation and early morning launches. I also learned how to fish multiple-day tournaments and find fish that will last more than one day. 3. Who do you think influenced you the most during your time in the junior program? Roy: Probably my father (Anthony) because he took me to tournaments and we always prefished together. I learned as much as I could from him. He was with me all the way through the juniors and he also fished the Federation Nation tournaments. 4. What advice do you have for other juniors striving to reach the level of success you have achieved? Roy: Get on the water -- no matter where it is at -- as often as you can. The more you do it the better you get at it, which goes for any sport. Study what other guys do and learn what they do well. Build your weaknesses up by using someone else’s strengths. 5. What do you think about Illinois sanctioning fishing as a high school activity and the movement of other states to do the same? Roy: I think it is a great opportunity for kids. I got an early start in fishing because I was blessed to have a father that fished. For some kids who do not have that, it is a great way to get them started when they are in high school and then they can develop into better fishermen. It gives them another option besides the standard basketball, football and baseball. 6. Eddie Goode has been working on getting a high school program started in your home state of Kentucky. Are you interested in helping in this effort if your schedule allows? Roy: Yes. Any way I can because I realize I am a product from a similar type of program. That is what helped me develop so I would be more than happy to give back and do stuff like that. 7. Kalem Tippett and you are two world champions that have graduated from the Kentucky Junior Bassmaster program, why do you think your state’s junior program has been so successful? Roy: There are a lot of good fathers in the program who are willing to put us out there, teach us how to fish and trust us with their equipment. Credit should also go to our presidents and youth director of the Kentucky Federation Nation. They have been geared and dedicated toward the juniors. It is a strong Federation all the way through the adult and junior programs. They always make sure we have plenty of tournaments to fish. 8. Who do you predict will be the next Junior Bassmaster World Champion to qualify for the Elite Series? Roy: It is hard to say. You mentioned Kalem who is an unbelievable fisherman. I see in him the natural raw instincts that certain fisherman have. He certainly could be there in a heartbeat if he chooses to take that path. 9. Some of the pros who came up through the Federation Nation ranks are still involved in various Federation Nation functions such as speaking at banquets or helping out at club events, would you like to give back to the junior program in some way if you find time in your schedule? Roy: Yeah. I realize where I came from and what developed me. so I would be more than happy to do that. In past years, I have been a boat captain whenever juniors needed one for their tournaments, and I plan on doing that this year with my wrapped Elite Series boat if I can work it out with my schedule. 10. What are your goals for your rookie season on the Elite Series trail? Roy: My first and foremost goal is to win Rookie of the Year and re-qualify for the Elites. The biggest goal will be to qualify for the Bassmaster Classic.
Tietje's Craws 3/3/2010 9:04:49 AM top Pete Robbins just wrote a great piece about rookie Elite Series angler Dennis Tietje and his intimate knowledge of crawfish. For an interesting read, click here.
VMC Hooks celebrates 100 years... 3/3/2010 7:39:05 AM top This year, renowned French hook giant, VMC®, celebrates its 100th anniversary of creating the world's finest fish hooks. VMC is proud to have sustained hook production at its factory in France for 100 years, but interestingly enough, the VMC family did not set out to make fish hooks. They were reeled into the fishing industry by a rival brand. Dating back to 1796, the family of Viellard-Migeon created a company and a tradition of manufacturing the highest quality steel products such as wires, screws and bolts. That same year, the Viellard family appointed Jean-Baptiste Migeon as manager of its steel forge. In 1835, Jean Baptiste's daughter married Juvenal Viellard. With this marriage, their initials were combined (V. - Viellard, M. - Migeon, and C. for company) to form VMC. At the beginning of the 1900s in Europe, the two families shared a common industrial thread and close relations. VMC® produced wires, screws, nuts and bolts, while the other family, among other goods, produced high-quality fishing hooks. By mutual agreement, neither would sell in the other's markets. But 1910 marked the dawn of a new era of competition. VMC's counterpart expanded their business and began to sell nuts and bolts on VMC's home soil in France. This decision fueled Charles Viellard to step-up the competition in turn and to diversify VMC's metalworking experience into fish hook manufacturing, the other family's specialty. Ten British families from the hub of the UK's needle-making and fishing tackle industries were moved to France to help set up VMC's new fish hook department. Thus the VMC family began to produce fish hooks, setting the stage to see which family could produce the highest quality of fish hook. The first VMC hooks were 100 percent handcrafted, utilizing one specific machine or tool for each stage of manufacturing, which produced a quality of hook that was unmatched. VMC today: capturing business hook, line and sinker Today, VMC produces 4 million hooks per day, with machines running around the clock to fill the demand. The company exports 70 percent of its hooks around the world. "VMC's success has been made possible by years of experience and our ability to continue to develop and innovate in the market," said Stanislas de Castelnau, president and managing director of VMC. "But even more important is the savoir-faire of the people making our hooks." VMC has consistently led the industry in treble hook design. The Needle Cone Point and the Cone Cut Point are just two of its world-famous designs. The Fastgrip triple mini-barb pattern was a world first. The company was also among the first to use Vanadium, a steel alloy for hook production. VMC's success story doesn't stop there. In November 2000, Rapala - the world's leading brand of fishing lures - joined forces with VMC. Today, the vast majority of Rapala and Respected Rapala Brands lures are equipped with VMC treble hooks, delighting anglers and helping them reel in the big ones wherever water exists on the globe. "VMC's 100th anniversary is an exciting milestone," said Tom Mackin, president of Rapala U.S.A. "Their superior-quality product and innovation will continue to set the benchmark in fish hook design and production." For more information, please visit www.vmchooks.com.
Mustad and Strike King...a great springtime combination 3/2/2010 8:43:10 PM top Kevin VanDam won the recent Bassmaster Classic and he spoke of two things. A new color Strike King Redeye Shad and a treble hook he designed for Mustad. Both worked in concert for a 5 pound win, a catfish, several shad, a few crappie, two back-hooked 4-pound bass and $500,000 dollars. When KVD speaks anglers notice and this past fall we got our first look at the new KVD Elite Mustad Triple Grips and we were impressed. Strong, super sharp, short shank for better holding power and 2X strength all combined into a hook that can be upsized so more fish get a boat ride. Where anglers used No. 4s they can now use bigger No. 2s without tangling because of the specially designed short shanks. Upsizing his hooks enabled VanDam to catch every fish that even breathed on his bait regardless of species. The KVD Elites have been hotter than a two dollar pistol and are selling fast but the folks at Mustad tell us that they are up to the challenge and shipments are going out daily. The Strike King Redeye Shad in the new Gold Sexy are almost on the shelves as well and for early spring fishing there is nothing better. With a great rattle, vertical fall and a body shape that imitates forage to the "T", the Redeye has been a hit for a couple of years but now combined with the Mustad KVD Elites, fishing and catching just became one in the same. To buy both of these products click here. Don't forget that Tackle Warehouse has a great back order system so order them even if they are currently out of stock. They will make sure you get them when they arrive.
Zoom New Color...Houdini 3/2/2010 8:21:09 PM top Swimmin' Super Fluke Zoom Bait Company never rests and their plastics are some of the best fish catching baits on the planet. They never rest on their laurels and their new products look to be better than ever. Zoom has just released a new color called Houdini. This is a combination of two popular Zoom colors. The top half of the baits are Watermelon Red with the bottom half being Sand, creating Houdini. This color is available in the Lizard, Finesse Worm, Salty Super Fluke, Shakey Head Worm, Baby Brush Hog, Magnum Shakey Head, Magnum Finesse and the new Swimmin’ Super Fluke. The great new Swimmin Super Fluke is available now and is a perfect springtime bait for pre-spawn and spawning bass. Check out this new article on the Zoom website with Marty Stone talking about the new Swimmin Super Fluke. Click here to read. Look for a Wired2Fish Contest soon with the Zoom Swimmin Fluke.
Table Rock FLW Tour Starts Tomorrow 3/2/2010 5:40:36 PM top The second stop (first was canceled) on the FLW Tour starts tomorrow on Table Rock Lake. It's supposed to be 23 degrees at takeoff. Several anglers reported seeing ice on certain coves and creeks and water temps ranging from high 30s to low 40s. But we also heard reports of some big bass being caught. They aren't catching a lot but the ones they do catch are generally very good quality fish. If we had to pick one guy to do well here, it would be Arkansas angler Scott Suggs. That's our expert pick for you. If you're playing FLW Fantasy Fishing and don't have a league, feel free to join ours. The league ID is 16894 and the password is Wired2Fish, so join us and get your team picked before the cutoff tonight at 11:59 EST. Good Luck and Good Fantasy Fishing to all! To sign up for Fantasy Fishing, click here.
J. Todd, Big Green Egg and more 3/2/2010 5:15:38 PM top Bassmaster Elite Series pro J. Todd Tucker of Atlanta, Ga., signed again with his primary sponsor Big Green Egg. He'll continue to promote their famous cooker as he tours the country with their wrap on his truck and boat. Additionally BGE signed fellow Elite anglers Bobby Lane, Chris Lane and Bradley Hallman to the Tucker Team EGGlites. They will travel the country and talk fishing and grilling with fans at the events. Tucker also continued long-time relationships with Yamaha, Lowrance, Optima, Berkley, Trilene, Fenwick, Abu Garcia, Columbia, Costa Del Mar and Southern Woods, a quail hunting preserve in Georgia. Additionally he signed Skeeter Boats and Tru-Tungsten as new sponsors for 2010.
Ranger receives another award... 3/2/2010 11:47:29 AM top In the March 2010 issue of Boating magazine, the publication’s editorial staff unveils their much-anticipated list of the Top-10 best boats of the year, judging hundreds of models with stringent selection criteria and a grueling elimination process. After putting so many designs through the paces, editors arrived at their final list of 10 with Ranger’s all-new Z521 Comanche highlighting the pack. Boating extolled the speed and stability of the Z521 – a feature-laden vessel that’s designed to exceed the needs of both competitive anglers and performance enthusiasts. The editors praised the boat’s running surface and Ranger’s trademark smooth, dry ride saying, “…it was like floating on air…there was no chine walking. The hull and power combination was ideal.” “At wide-open throttle, we crossed wakes at 45 degrees without fear – the Comanche remained on course and on its lines,” wrote Boating’s editorial staff in their glowing review of the 2010 model. “But also kind was the way the Comanche pampered anglers, keeping their focus on the tournament winnings, not on the details of running a boat or managing gear.” “From the moment we introduced the Z500 series, this is the boat that so many anglers have been asking about,” said Ranger Boats President Randy Hopper. “We’re excited to share the results of so much angler input. On top of so many new interior features, it’s an exceptionally responsive design with a great ride and ultra solid feel on and off plane.” The interior is highlighted by a completely redesigned console that’s not only taller for more protection, but offers built-in mounting options for today’s popular, large-screened electronics directly above the steering wheel – eliminating the need for gimbal and swivel mounts in most cases. The redesigned consoles also integrate a stylish-yet-functional concave beveling on the outside, allowing the tips of rods stored on the front deck to stay more secure while in use. The Z521 Comanche measures an efficient-yet-spacious 21 feet, 3 inches in length with a 95-inch beam for the sturdiest fishing platform of any high-performance model in production. Rated for 250 horsepower, the Z521 is available with a wide range of precision-matched outboards to meet the preferences of anglers across the country, while a 52 gallon fuel capacity ensures plenty of range for long runs in search of fish. More details – including videos, reviews and other industry accolades – touting the total performance design of the all-new Z521 can be found by logging on to www.mydreamrig.com or www.rangerboats.com.
Sufix Line Contest Winners.... 3/2/2010 9:36:51 AM top Thanks to all of the Wired2Fish readers who participated in the Sufix Line Contest. The information that each of you provided was invaluable. The winners of the Sufix Line Contest are: John Thomas Bentonville, AR Jody White Blacksburg , VA Neal Wetmore Tinley Park, IL Chad Booker Princeton, IN E. Byron Oost Owensboro, KY Jason McCoy Plymouth, WI Don Fisher Lititz, PA Capt Bob Morrissey Savannah, GA Your line is on the way. Let us know how you like it.
Peter T's New Wrap... 3/2/2010 8:44:32 AM top Jacksonville, Florida angler Peter Thliveros has his new wrap with Tru-tungsten. Check it out.
Vicious and PVA promotion a huge success... 3/2/2010 7:11:59 AM top A partnership between Vicious Fishing and the Paralyzed Veterans of America at the 40th Bassmaster Classic resulted in more than $1,100 donated to the PVA off shirt sales that will assist the PVA’s sports and recreation programs. Limited edition apparel featuring a stars-and-stripes motif and "Vic," the Vicious Fishing mascot, were snapped up during the Classic’s three-day outdoors expo. More than 58,000 people attended the outdoors expo and the Vicious Fishing booth was packed. Sales were so brisk and interest so high, Vicious officials have extended the chance to purchase the exclusive apparel. "We sold close to 300 units and raised $1,139 at the expo for the PVA," said Chris Dutton, marketing manager for Vicious Fishing. "The USA apparel was very well received and we have extended the sale of the USA apparel to our online store." Short sleeve t-shirts in three colors are available along with long sleeve shirts and hooded sweatshirts in two colors at www.vicious-fishing.com in its online store. A special purchase program is available for retailers interested in carrying the exclusive series to further help PVA. The PVA’s sports and recreation programs include fishing tournaments and shooting sports events. PVA has more than 20,000 members and assists veterans with spinal cord injuries or disease with a variety of programs, research and legislative assistance. "We are very proud to be associated with the PVA and we will continue to work and raise more money for the organization," Dutton said.
Hide Your Terminal Tackle 3/1/2010 9:20:42 PM top We recently reviewed new swivels made out of a fluorocarbon-like material. The Aquateko Invisa Swivels are pretty cool. Check out our review of them here.
SIU Wins Inaugural Murray State Invitational 3/1/2010 11:23:35 PM top The Southern Illinois University team of Ben DeBlois and Christopher Piha cranked their way to the top spot and $2,000 at the first Murray State Kentucky Lake Invitational. The team weighed 10 bass during the two-day event for a total weight of 31.89 pounds. Pro Ray Barga told the collegiate anglers fishing the invitational at the pre-tournament banquet that fortunes can change in hurry on Kentucky Lake under prespawn conditions, and it is possible to catch 20-pound limits from any small stretch of bank this time of year. Such was the case for SIU’s DeBlois and Piha. “We had only one fish at 11:30 a.m. on day one,” Deblois said. “Then, we found one 200-yard stretch of bank that was absolutely loaded.” The team quickly filled out their day one limit of 16.36 pounds and knew where they would start day two.The fish had not moved when the team arrived at the spot on the second day. “We had 10 fish in the first 40 minutes this morning,” Piha said after the final day’s weigh-in. The team milked the bank for all it was worth and culled a 15-incher with a five-pound kicker fish later in the day to round out their final day’s bag that weighed 15.53 pounds. The winning bank was located inside a creek north of the takeoff at KenLake Marina. It had pea gravel mixed with chunk rock and featured four or five small secondary points. DeBlois and Piha used a crawfish colored Strike King Red-Eye Shad and a Srike King Strike Shad in a rootbeer color to catch their fish. The SIU team is sponsored by Dobyns rods, Strike King Lures, Vicious Fishing and Tackle Warehouse. Warmer temps during an unusually cold February moved the fish shallow to prepare for the spawn a few weeks away. Air temps in the high 40’s and plenty of sunshine helped the shallow water bite. Most anglers reported catching their fish on crankbaits and jerkbaits. Another team from SIU, Mark O’Brien and Ryan Wachter took second-place honors with a two day total of 30.83 pounds. Anglers from Tennessee Tech University, Seth Davis and Ryan Maddux claimed third with 26.15 pounds. Rounding out the top five teams were Therron Shaw and Austin Brown from Murray State University. Shaw and Brown weighed the biggest bag of tournament, 20.09 pounds, on day two and finished with a total of 25.71 pounds. The Murray State teams of Steve Miller and Ben Helmerich and Dan Langton and Chad Branham tied for fifth place with 22.74 pounds. Murray State Bass Anglers wishes to thank all that helped out with making the first Murray State Kentucky Lake Invitational a success. Especially John Parks of Jet-A-Marine, John Newton, his wife and crew of U.S.A Bassin, Terry Little and Ray Barga. We also thank Jim Carter, Murray State University’s vice president of institutional advancement and Murray State University for their support of Murray State Bass Anglers. We look forward hosting the event next year.
Mercer this week.... 3/1/2010 7:57:44 PM top On Dave Mercer's Facts of Fishing this week ... Kevin VanDam, A New World Record Bass, Des Moines, Iowa & The Olympics. To watch click here.
Best Early Season Bait Contest... 3/1/2010 6:48:05 PM top What is your favorite early spring bait? Is it a lipless rattling bait like a Strike King Redeye Shad? How about a Rapala Shad Rap or DT6? Is it a Yamamoto Senko, a Zoom Fluke or a Reaction Innovations Skinny Dipper. How about a McStick Jerkbait? With the water temps in the mid 40's and clear to a bit stained what is your favorite bait? What is your favorite color? Send us your choice and how you fish it to contest@wired2fish.com before March 17 at noon for a chance to win. We have three great early season prizes for three lucky winners.
Second Round of PAA Entries Begins... 3/1/2010 6:39:47 PM top Registration opened Monday for the “Priority Entry II” anglers on last season’s Professional Anglers Association Tour Points list for the 2010 PAA Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series that begins in July. “Priority Entry II” is March 1-5 for all anglers on the 2009 Carrot Stix PAA Tournament Series Point Standings who plan to sign up for all four PAA Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series events this season. This is the second of four registration periods. Tournament entry fees are $2,500 per event with a $750 deposit per event. Tournaments this season will include PAA Member Observers who will have chances to win prizes based on their pro’s performance, as well as a chance to compete in an all new Pro-Am format on Saturday. Details of both programs will be announced soon. 2010 PAA Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series Schedule: July 8-10: Lake Cherokee, Morristown, Tenn. Aug. 12-14:* Lake Norman, Charlotte, N.C. Sept. 9-11: Lake Tawakoni, Garland, Texas Oct. 14-16: Table Rock Lake, Branson, Mo. Tournament format: • 30 day off-limits before first practice day (no info and not on water) • 3-day official practice (Sunday- Tuesday)* • 1 off day (Wednesday) for registration and other activities* • 3-day tournament (Thursday- Saturday) • Full field the first two days • Top 30 will fish the final day and weigh in at Bass Pro Shops store • Pro only – must be a TOUR level member of PAA to fish any tournament in 2010 – anglers can become a TOUR level member of PAA upon registering for the Series events • Member Observers all three days *To accommodate anglers competing in the Forrest Wood Cup, the official practice period for Lake Norman will begin Monday (8/9/10) instead of Sunday, with no off day prior to competition.
Chill Media and Mercer for partnership... 3/1/2010 4:09:29 PM top CHILL Media Inc. has landed a big one! The Oakville-based publisher is pleased to announce a new partnership with Canada’s favorite fishing funny man, Dave Mercer. The popular TV host brings his legendary expertise and signature humor to the Chill magazine lineup with his Facts of Fishing column now featured regularly and a new blog at Chillonline.ca. In addition, CHILL and Mercer will co-sponsor a variety of contests and cross-promotions encompassing print, web and television. “This partnership is a natural fit,” said Scott Stevenson, CHILL’s publisher and editorial director. “Mercer’s brand personality matches the CHILL mentality perfectly; we go together like a cold beer after a great day on the lake. Dave combines expert knowledge about one of Canada’s favorite pastimes with a John Candy-like sense of humor, and we’re delighted to welcome him to the CHILL family.” “I’m honored and excited to partner with such a strong and ground-breaking brand as CHILL, not only as a business, but as a person," Mercer said. "I have been a loyal reader of CHILL for years. Let’s face it – CHILL is all about Canadians and our passions. My passion is fishing, and I can’t wait to share it on the pages of Chill. And in the great words of the CHILLosopher, what better way for a Canadian to chill than fishing."
Stone joins Ardent and CTC Supply... 3/1/2010 3:17:14 PM top North Carolina Elite Series pro Marty Stone has had a busy off season and just announced he has signed two more sponorship agreements. One with Ardent Reels, where he will be using the Ardent XS 1000 flagship baitcast reel and CTC Supply, a local heating and cooling company to Stone in North Carolina. CTC Supply (Cumberland Trading Company) has been proudly serving the residential and commercial heating and air conditioning needs of southern North Carolina for 10 years. “Hunting and fishing are a way of life here in North Carolina,” said Jimmy Cass, the General Manager of CTC Supply. “A majority of our customers are outdoors people so it’s a perfect fit to have Fayetteville’s own Marty Stone, a well-known name on the national fishing tours, to represent us. Having him promote CTC Supply will provide some great regional recognition and we look forward to some of the activities we have planned with Marty this year.” Stone, a life-long resident of North Carolina, is a 15-year BASS pro and two-time winner on the BASS Elite Series. As part of the sponsorship, Stone will do two personal appearance days at the CTC Supply headquarters in Fayetteville and will also host the winner of CTC’s “Day on the lake with Marty Stone” contest. Ardent Reels, headquartered in Macon, Missouri is the manufacturer of premier quality reels, both baitcasting and spinning, that are all made in the US. “We are happy to have Marty using our products on tour,” said Ryan Hohl, Marketing Coordinator for Ardent. “Marty is a great fit for our brand and is one of the hardest working promoters in the business.” Stone is a 15-year BASS pro and two-time winner on the BASS Elite Series. “I’m privileged to be with a reel company that does all of its manufacturing right here in America,” Stone said. “Ardent is a young company with a bright future in the fishing business and I’m glad I’m getting in on the ground floor to be a part of its growth.” Stone is one of the hardest promoters on tour and has recently signed Bandit Lures, TTI Blakemore and Buckeye Lures, as well. To learn more click here.
It's All Good According to Scroggins 3/1/2010 2:08:53 PM top The psychology surrounding professional anglers would provide great doctoral research material at institutions like Stanford or Yale known for diving deep into the human mind. They could start with 7-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier Terry “Big Show” Scroggins. But they might be disappointed. Scroggins is anything but a head case. He’s much the opposite. Scroggins looks for life’s simpler, brighter side and is famous among friends for his favorite verbal expression – “It’s All Good.” “This life we live is tough. It’s full of mental, physical and financial challenges – so saying ‘It’s All Good’ is my way of always lookin’ up,” said the 41-year-old Floridian. For example, when Scroggins showed up in Birmingham to practice for the Bassmaster Classic, three inches of snow and record low lake temperatures greeted his sun tanned hands. “Oh yea, that would have been easy to get down about, but I saw it as a positive. To me, that took the home field advantage away from the eight or so guys that lived near Lay Lake,” Scroggins said. “Plus, if you’re gonna be dumb, and make a living fishing in snow, you gotta be tough -- and part of being tough means having the right clothing. I came prepared with everything from Polartec clothing to a motorcycle helmet, so I knew I was as ready as the rest of them,” Scroggins said. Next up in this crazy life, Scroggins will spend four full days planted alone in the front seat of his Toyota Tundra driving 2,800 miles from Florida to doubleheader Elite Series tournaments in California. “What’s good about that is I’ll cruise hands free from the cell phone using my Tundra’s Bluetooth. It’s a long, lonely trip across the Mojave Desert, but if you’re getting business done while you drive, 'It’s All Good.'”
Clemons, Knight hired by PAA... 3/1/2010 1:45:04 PM top The Professional Anglers Association has filled two key positions with the hiring of Alan Clemons of Alabama as Communications Director and Randy Knight of Texas as Tournament Director. PAA President John Crews said the additions will more easily enable the PAA to continue moving forward toward the 2010 PAA Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series that begins in July. “We are very happy to bring on two individuals with such great experience,” said PAA President John Crews. “Alan is the perfect person to help the PAA in an area where we need to improve. Randy brings experience and a proven reputation to the rules and enforcement side of our events. I know Alan and Randy are going to mesh well in our organization and help the PAA be more effective in promoting our anglers, tournaments and the fishing industry." Clemons is a lifelong resident of Alabama with 25 years in the newspaper and freelance writing industry. His experience includes serving as the outdoors editor with The Huntsville Times for almost 15 years and a sports writer with the Huntsville News. His work has been honored numerous times and published in Outdoor Life, Bassmaster, Bass Times, Cabela’s Outfitter Journal, ESPN Outdoors, Wired2Fish.com, Lone Star Outdoor News, Thicket and Birmingham Magazine. “I’m excited to be joining the PAA as it builds on last year’s success,” Clemons said. “Professional anglers have many compelling stories on and off the water, and communication is vital to let our members, sponsor partners, industry representatives and fans know about them and the PAA. “We are evaluating our communications platforms to assist PAA members and sponsor partners in getting their messages to the public. I know a lot of PAA members from working with them at tournaments or other events, and look forward to continuing those relationships while building new ones.” Knight is a native Texan and has directed or co-produced more than 300 bass tournaments, primarily in Texas, in the last two decades. Among those were the Skeeter Boats Owner’s Tournaments, Skeeter Pro-Bass Challenge, Country Bass Association, Angler’s Choice couples and team divisions and the Somerville Lions Club event, now in its 33rd year. Knight has worked with major sponsors for tournaments including Skeeter Boats, Mercury Outboards, Stanley Jigs, Pure Fishing-Berkley and All-Star Rods. He has fished numerous individual and team tournaments since the mid-1980s, and qualified for the Red Man Regional and Angler’s Choice Pro-Am championships. “It’s been a great experience over the years,” Knight said of directing tournaments. “What I like most about it is you get to meet so many people from different walks of life and they’re all coming together for a common passion. Some guys have taken off their white shirts and ties or put down their hammers for the day to get together for a few hours. “This is such a great opportunity with the PAA and I’m looking forward to it. My passion for bass fishing is as great as these pros. I just can’t sometimes find the fish or catch them as well as they can, but that’s why we all keep trying.” About the PAA: The Professional Anglers Association is a non-profit organization that gives professional anglers a unified voice in order to aid in the growth of the sport of professional bass fishing. The PAA also aims to administer educational programs to the average angler, to increase enjoyment of the sport, and to embrace sound conservation practices to further the future of the sport. For more information, visit FishPAA.com.
Berkley Trailer back on the road... 3/1/2010 11:12:05 AM top The Berkley Experience Trailer will be at the Bass Pro Shops in Concord, N.C., for the next stop in 2010. The 60-foot trailer of fun and activities brings fishing education to all skill levels of anglers. The scheduled stop for the Berkley Experience Trailer is March 5th and is set to end March 7th. The trailer has new videos and interactive demonstrations on line and bait. The Berkley Experience Team will have seminars scheduled throughout the day to cover the four main components of fishing: Line Selection Rigging Techniques for Bait Reel Maintenance Rod Selection Each stop has special retail promotions only available while the trailer is at the location. These include line, bait, rods, reels and combos. “We are excited about having the Experience Trailer on the road in 2010 and stopping at many new locations across the country,” said Andrew Marks, Sr. Marketing Manager. "Our Experience Trailer staff is ready to help anglers of all ages and skill levels learn about fishing, our products and how best to use them to catch more fish.” Other exciting elements include a knot tying contest and demonstration, where you can learn new knots and even win a prize. Under the tent, we will have racks filled with the latest products and big screen videos that help you experience the adventure with Berkley. The Berkley Experience staff is always on hand to help answer any questions that you have about our innovative products. UPCOMING BERKLEY EXPERIENCE STOPS March 5th – 7th Bass Pro Shops 8181 Concord Mills Blvd. Concord, NC 28027 March 12th – 14th Bass Pro Shops 7000 Arundel Mills Circle Hanover, MD 21076
Auburn Wins College Fishing Event 3/1/2010 10:14:27 AM top The Auburn University team of Shaye Baker and Kenneth (Jordan) Lee won the National Guard FLW College Fishing Southeast Division event on Lake Okeechobee Saturday with six bass weighing 11 pounds, 7 ounces. The victory earned the team $10,000 to be split evenly between the university and the university’s bass-fishing club. The win also helped them advance to the Southeast Division Regional Championship where they could ultimately win a Ranger 177TR with a 90-horsepower engine wrapped in school colors for their school’s club and $25,000 for the school they represent. “I am glad we got them today,” Baker said. “I like Florida, but the fishing was though today. I like fishing a little closer to home. “Jordan and I weren’t able to do any pre-fishing for this tournament, so we relied heavily on what me and my partner learned at last year’s tournament. We fished the same area on the southwest corner of the lake, near Turner’s Cove, where we pulled up on some grass and found fish biting. “We actually caught our limit by 9:30 a.m. which really helped us a lot. We then concentrated on finding some bigger fish that we knew were out there. Unfortunately this cold front shut the fish down, and we couldn’t really find that big one. We caught most of our fish with Reaction Innovation Skinny Dippers, the ones we missed using Skinny Dippers we got on Yamamoto Senkos.” “I was really surprised we won,” Lee said. “With our low weight, I didn’t think we would even make the top five. The cold front that came through really made the bite tough. I knew my partner was a good fisherman, so we just hoped for the best.” Payback is sweet for Baker as last November he and his 2009 partner finished second behind the University of Florida team of Jake Gipson and Matthew Wercinski at the Southeast Division Regional Championship. Baker and last year’s partner, Dennis Parker, along with the University of Florida and 23 other team’s from across the country will participate in the 2009 National Championship event which is being held April 10-12 at Ft. Loudoun and hosted by the University of Tennessee. Rounding out the top five teams today were Southern Polytechnic State University – Dustin Holland and Zachary Dixon (three bass 10-10, $5,000); University of Central Florida – Leonard Gordon and Miles Burghoff (six bass, 9-14, $4,000); Tennessee Tech – Cody Gass and Adam Goodwin (six bass, 8-15, $3,000); University of South Carolina, Upstate – David Scruggs and Michael Smith (six bass, 8-12, $2,000).
Brown wins FLW AFS on Okeechobee 3/1/2010 10:06:07 AM top Marty Brown of Dalton, Ga., caught a five-bass limit weighing 10 pounds, 14 ounces Saturday to win the FLW American Fishing Series Southeast tournament on Lake Okeechobee with a three-day total of 15 bass weighing 52 pounds, 1 ounce. For his victory, Brown earned $24,680. “I was lucky enough to find a transition area where the fish were moving in and out,” Brown said. “I was here during the FLW Eastern Series event a few weeks ago, and I knew there was a spawn then. With the full moon coming again, I knew another spawn was coming. I just basically fished the same location all week long, which was the east wall area, knowing that I would have to work it [repeatedly] until I caught my fish. It was loaded. The only challenge was being able to come up with the kickers which were few and far between due to the cold front. “I had my limit today by about 10 a.m. and was able to cull a few times, but I never really did find that one big kicker. I caught all my fish flipping a Black Zoom 6-inch Lizard on a Castaway flipping stick. Rounding out the top-10 pros were: 2nd: Jeff McMillan, Belle Glade, Fla., 15 bass, 46-6, $8,391 3rd: Don Demott, Boca Raton, Fla., 15 bass, 46-5, $5,923 4th: Jeff Fitts, Keystone Heights, Fla., 15 bass, 45-14, $4,936 5th: Dwayne Horton, Knoxville, Tenn., 15 bass, 45-8, $4,442 6th: Koby Kreiger, Okeechobee, Fla., 15 bass, 44-11, $3,949 7th: Kevin Long, Clewiston, Fla., 15 bass, 42-15, $3,455 8th: Roger Gonzalez, Hialeah Gardens, Fla., 11 bass, 40-7, $2,962 9th: Aymon Wilcox, Lauderdale Lakes, Fla., 15 bass, 38-13, $2,468 10th: Ronnie Watts, Florence, S.C., 13 bass, 36-15, $1,974 Jesse Steadham of Florence, Miss., won the Co-angler Division and $9,882 cash, with a three-day total of 15-bass weighing 33 pounds, 4 ounces. “I am still shaking all over,” said Steadham who is fishing with FLW for his second year. “I caught all my fish using Reaction Innovation Skinny Dippers in grass fields about 4 to 5 feet deep. The bite was not as good today, and the fish were definitely smaller. I thought I was going to finish in third place. “Fishing was definitely a lot more difficult today. I had a 5-pounder break my line early in the day, and I didn’t get my kicker until the last 20 minutes of the tournament. That 4 1/2-pound fish was the one that definitely won it for me.” Steadham caught five bass weighing 14-12 Thursday while fishing with pro Dale Walker of Miami, Fla., to open the tournament in sixth place. On Friday he added five more bass weighing 9 pounds to make the top-10 cut in fifth place while fishing with pro Rick Marsh of High Point, N.C. Finally, on Saturday, he sealed the win with five bass weighing 9-8 while fishing with Aymon Wilcox of Lauderdale Lakes, Fla. Rounding out the top five co-anglers were: 2nd: Kevin Thomas, Miramar, Fla., 15 bass, 32-15, $3,953 3rd: Bucky Helms, Dallas, N.C., 11 bass, 30-11, $1,976 4th: Brent Houlihan, Naples, Fla., 15 bass, 30-11, $1,729 5th: Robert Wood, Jupiter, Fla., 11 bass, 30-4, $1,482 6th: Danny Shelton, Davie, Fla., 13 bass, 30-2, $1,235 7th: Mitch Reynolds, Petal, Miss., 9 bass, 27-14, $988 8th: Darren Jeter, Marshall, N.C., 12 bass, 27-3, $889 9th: Ron Buck, Port St. Lucie, Fla., 14 bass, 25-14, $791 10th: George Kapiton, Inverness, Fla., 15 bass, 25-12, $692
Baitsmith signs Chris Lane... 3/1/2010 9:07:34 AM top Baitsmith, LLC announced today that it has signed Bassmaster Elite Series angler Chris Lane of Guntersville, AL to a long-term endorsement contract to promote its full line of swim baits. “Swim baits will play a role in every Elite Series event in 2010. Every single one! Now that I’m with Baitsmith I feel prepared to win when the swim bait bite is on. Since moving to Lake Guntersville swim baits have become a passion of mine. I will tell you right now these baits are going to be on fire this spring,” said Chris Lane. “The boys in Idaho had better be prepared to work some long hours because I have not showed these lures to anyone that did not get absolutely fired up!” “Our baits are 100% hand made in the U.S.A. and have a loyal following out here in the West because they catch quality fish. We wanted anglers in the rest of the world to know about us so we sat down and performed in-depth market research. We were drawn to Chris Lane because he fishes to win, has a reputation of working hard and he absolutely fell in love with the baits,” said Eric Smith of Baitsmith, LLC. Based in Hayden, ID, Baitsmith LLC hand makes swim baits ranging from 5” shad and bluegill to a 6” hitch and 9.5” magnum trout in amazingly life-like colors. Baits are available at selected retail outlets or online at www.baitsmith.com. Dealer and distributor inquiries are welcome and may be directed to info@baitsmith.com. Fishing in his 8th year as a full-time professional angler, Chris Lane recently relocated to Guntersville, AL from Winter Haven, FL. Chris finished the 2009 season with an FLW American Fishing Series win on Lake Guntersville and opened the 2010 season with a victory in the Bassmaster Southern Open on Lake Okeechobee. More information about Chris Lane is available at www.ChrisLaneFishing.com.

Martens injures leg...fishing on one leg today 3/11/2010 2:13:38 PM

From BASS today:

The first significant non-fishing news out of Morelli Point in Stockton, Calif., this morning is the injury report: 2007 Duel in the Delta winner Aaron Martens is, in his own words "fishing on one leg."

Martens, who barely made it off the dock and through the holding traffic for his morning flight, has an unidentified injury in his lower right leg, a condition that started at the Bassmaster Classic but was aggravated when the 37-year-old California native was, of all things, walking across the room at the angler meeting at the hotel last night.

"This is the worst injury I've ever had in my life," Martens said. "I can't believe how much it hurts. I can't even walk -- I have to hop on one leg.

"Right after we were getting our picture taken, I was just walking across the room and it felt like I pulled something. It took me 5 minutes to get up the stairs. I can't even lift my right leg at all."

Martens' injury, which he thinks originally occurred while he was leaning into the trolling motor, bucking heavy current in the frigid temperatures of last month's Classic at Lay Lake, affects his lower leg, from behind his knee around to his shin.

He's been able to stand on the trolling motor all week in practice, but, thinks he'll definitely be limited to the butt seat for most of the day.

"My other leg is starting to get tired because I've been compensating for it," Martens said. "I have about a 30-mile run to make I should be okay getting there, because I'm able to push with the leg, but I can't bend my knee to pick up fish.

"I guess I'll just see if I can fall down on the deck and grab 'em. Even that is going to be painful, though."

Martens, who many have pegged as a favorite in this event, is worried that the limited mobility will hamper his fishing style as much as his ability to stand and walk.

"Part of what I do best is move quickly and efficiently, but I'm not going to be able to torque it at all," he said. "I guess I'm going to have to try to take it as a positive and maybe fish more methodical. That's what I'm telling myself, anyway."

Ardent F700 Flipping Reel Winner is.... 3/11/2010 1:36:26 PM

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As usual, the Wired2Fish readers stepped up in a big way on the Ardent F700 Denny Brauer Signature Series reel contest. Based on our feedback buying a technique specific reel is indeed on your radar screen. Because of the great drag system, high quality handle and aluminum frame and side panels, 8 ball bearings, 6 pin centrifugal brake system and a 3 year warranty the Ardent F700 is the choice. Its also Made in the USA.

We provided your feedback to Ardent and they stepped up in a big way with a special offer to all of those that participated.

We dug hard in the old fishing hat and the winner of the F700 is.......

Cameron Denison
Saint Charles, MO

Cameron, you don't have to beg your wife any longer. Yours is on the way.

To buy an Ardent F700 or other great Ardent Reel or Ardent product click here.

Elites...the season begins 3/11/2010 11:41:38 AM

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The BASS Elites began this am on the California Delta and even though the weather has been cool large fish and large stringers should be on the docket. Temps in the 60's today with overcast conditions should play well for anglers who love to fish the pre-spawn. The Delta, a big fish factory, recently under fire by municipalities for its water supply should again show its true colors. Swimbaits, punching grass and frogs could be the baits of choice. Do you think the lipless crankbaits used at Lay Lake will have a role? We want to know who you think will win and on what bait. Wired readers have the moxy and know how and there might be something in it for you if you guess correctly. Send your guess on winning angler, winning weight and bait of choice to us here at feedback@wired2fish.com.

When to go lipless? 3/11/2010 9:59:14 AM

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We have had the pleasure of spending time with Elite Series veteran Peter Thilveros on the water and without hesitation he is an expert on plastics and Carolina rigging. He also knows a thing or two about rattling lipless baits. There is a great article on BassTackleDepot that goes in depth with Peter T on how and when to throw them. To read this article by Andy Parsons click here.

Ike Gets Fuzzy... 3/10/2010 8:58:34 PM

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It’s unlikely that Mike Iaconelli will find himself struggling for a bite while on the supremely healthy California fisheries that the Bassmaster Elite Series will call home for most of March.

But it happens. In fact, it happens to the world’s best more than you probably realize. Don’t forget, things weren’t quite as rosy in Birmingham at the 2010 Bassmaster Classic. For starters, 3 inches of snow greeted Iaconelli and 50 other Bassmaster Classic competitors when they arrived in town. Overnight lows were in the 20s in the heart of Dixie, and the bass appeared to have their appetites on ice.

Iaconelli didn’t get to be one of the top 10 anglers in the world by freezing up. Instead he reaches for what he calls the panic box. It’s a plastic tackle storage tray that offers a sense of calm based on contents inside that take him back to his bass club days.

“The box is filled with a lot of the smaller, finesse baits and the sort of stuff we fished for trout with as a kid, and one of the baits in there is a homemade hair jig my long-time buddy Chris Dalfonso ties for me,” Iaconelli said.

Dalfonso runs a driveway sealant company back home, and at times his handy work on the fly tying bench goes far in saving Ike’s bacon. “Chris and I grew up bass fishing in the Top Rod Bassmasters club, and his hair jig is not only great in really cold water, but in ‘tough water’ of any kind,” Iaconelli said.

“I think Chris uses deer hair and some synthetics to tie it. What I know for sure is it gets bites when all the standard bigger stuff fails. It’s really, really light so you have to throw it on 6-pound line and use a long 7-foot, 4-inch rod to launch it. I pump it and swim it like a dying shad. As I’m lifting the rod tip, I’m pumping the rod as I lift,” explained the 2006 Toyota Tundra Bassmaster Angler of the Year winner.

“It works in cold water, it works in current, and it works on schooling fish in the middle of summer. Most of all, it works during those times when all else fails.”

Cox Leads at Eufaula 3/10/2010 7:41:51 PM

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Pro John Cox of Debary, Fla., landed five bass weighing 26 pounds, 13 ounces Wednesday to lead day one of the FLW Series Eastern Division tournament on Lake Eufaula. He holds a slim 12-ounce lead in the tournament featuring 152 pros and 152 co-anglers.

“I took off this morning and started running up the river and ripped my skeg off,” said Cox, who led the first three days of competition during January’s FLW Series Lake Okeechobee event. “But I kept going and got to my spot and sat down and caught a 5-pounder and another one and then missed a couple. Then I ran to about 10 more spots and caught the five I weighed.

“I was done by 10,” Cox added. “After that, I just completely changed it up and tried to find new areas. I caught a few other ones but nothing like I caught earlier.”

Cox said he began the day by running “a pretty good ways” from the Lakepoint Resort State Park launch and caught his fish on a spinnerbait and worm. Cox said he caught 10 to 12 keepers during the course of the day.

“I’ve never seen this place like this,” said Cox, who said he hadn’t fished Eufaula the past three years. “Not this size and quality of fish.”

Sean Wieda of Florence, Ky., trails Cox in the No. 2 spot with five bass weighing 26-1.

Rounding out the remainder of the top-10 pros after day one at Lake Eufaula are:

      3rd: Alan Hults, Gautier, Miss., five bass, 24-1
      4th: Mike Millsaps, Cartersville, Ga., five bass, 23-12
      5th: Bryan Thrift, Shelby, N.C., five bass, 22-13
      6th: Randall Tharp, Gardendale, Ala., five bass, 22-10
      7th: Koby Kreiger, Okeechobee, Fla., five bass, 22-8
      8th: David Walker, Sevierville, Tenn., five bass, 21-13
      9th: Dwayne Horton, Knoxville, Tenn., five bass, 21-10
      10th: Tracy Adams, Wilkesboro, N.C., five bass, 21-4
      10th: Kevin Brumfield, Cumming, Ga., five bass, 21-4

Overall there were 640 bass weighing 1,931 pounds, 5 ounces caught by 148 pros Wednesday. The catch included 102 five-bass limits.

In FLW Series competition, pros are competing for a top award of $50,000 plus valuable points in the hope of qualifying for a shot at the 2011 Forrest Wood Cup, the world championship of bass fishing.

Matt Hults of Gautier, Miss., leads the Co-angler Division with five bass weighing 20-2 followed by William Ranquist Jr. of Park Ridge, Ill., in second place with five bass weighing 19-11.

Hults caught his bass while fishing with pro Scott Montgomery of Eufaula, who is currently in 42nd place with five bass weighing 16-6.

The remainder of the top-10 co-anglers are:

      3rd: Wayne Hauser, Mooresville, N.C., five bass, 17-12
      4th: Kurtis Michaux, Clermont, Fla., five bass, 17-12
      5th: Jeff Cummins, Marion, Ohio, five bass, 15-1
      6th: Dean Tucker, Hiawassee, Ga., five bass, 15-1
      7th: Robert Kimbrough, Vero Beach, Fla., five bass, 14-4
      8th: Chris Hults, Vancleave, Miss., four bass, 14-1
      9th: Dylan Hays, Greenbrier, Ark., five bass, 13-13
      10th: Steve Phillips, Douglas, Ga., five bass, 13-8

Overall there were 351 bass weighing 888 pounds, 14 ounces caught by 128 co-anglers Wednesday. The catch included 25 five-bass limits.

Co-anglers are competing this week for a Ranger 177TR with a 90 horsepower Evinrude or Yamaha outboard motor as well as valuable points that could help them qualify for the 2011 Forrest Wood Cup.

Anglers will take off from Lakepoint Resort State Park located at 104 Lakepoint Drive in Eufaula at 7 each morning. Thursday’s and Friday’s weigh-ins will also be held at Lakepoint Resort State Park beginning at 3 p.m. Saturday’s final weigh-in will be held at Billy Lawrence Chevrolet located at 3220 S. Eufaula Ave. in Eufaula beginning at 4 p.m.

Lazer TroKar joins PAA... 3/10/2010 4:40:06 PM

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Lazer TroKar has joined the Professional Anglers Association as an associate sponsor of the 2010 PAA Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series presented by Carrot Stix.

With input from its pro staff of Shaw Grigsby, Brent Chapman, Skeet Reese, Gerald Swindle and Jason Williamson, Lazer TroKar’s designers combined surgical precision with high-carbon cold-forged steel to create its line of hooks. The lineup includes the HD Worm, Extra Wide Gap Worm, Magworm, Flippin’, Swimbait and Drop Shot.

"We are excited to be a part of the PAA program and tournaments,” said Chris Russell, Lazer TroKar’s Director of Product & Marketing. “I feel the PAA is a perfect fit for Lazer Trokar hooks because they are specifically designed to be the weapon of choice for the pro anglers.

“The Professional Anglers Association gives us the chance to share this advanced hook technology and work closely with the best anglers in the world of bass fishing," Russell added.

Lazer TroKar hooks will be available through special membership promotions this year including retail promotions, tournaments and other events.

For more information about Lazer TroKar, visit www.lazertrokar.com

Wolverine signs with FLW... 3/10/2010 12:20:06 PM

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FLW Outdoors, the world’s leading tournament fishing organization, announced Wednesday that Wolverine has signed a sponsorship deal. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

“Wolverine is proud to enter this relationship with FLW Outdoors,” said Todd Yates, VP Marketing & GM Apparel for Wolverine. “Wolverine’s extensive range of premium products including boots, shoes, apparel and gear aligns perfectly with FLW Outdoors and the outdoors men and women who participate in outdoors-related activities.”

As part of the sponsorship, Wolverine will receive exposure across all platforms of FLW Outdoors, including tournaments and other outlets.

“We are proud to announce our new partnership with Wolverine and look forward to supporting and promoting their portfolio of products through the FLW platform,” said FLW Outdoors Executive Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer Trisha Blake.

Williamson signs with Bass Pro and Nitro... 3/10/2010 10:33:59 AM

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Bass Pro Shops and Nitro boats have announced the signing of Bassmaster Elite Series Pro Jason Williamson from Aiken, S.C.
Williamson will be running a Nitro Z-9 high performance bass boat and fishing with the new Bass Pro Shops Johnny Morris Gold Series and Johnny Morris Signature Series reels in B.A.S.S. events in 2010.

“We are very excited to form this partnership with Jason,” stated Rick Emmitt, Marketing Manager of Angler Programs/Pro Staff for Bass Pro Shops/Nitro Boats. “Jason is an up and coming angler who has had great success in a relatively short professional career. This South Carolina native is a proven winner and a great fit for the Bass Pro Shops and Nitro family.”

Williamson took first place at the 2009 Elite Series opener on Lake Amistead in Del Rio, Texas. He has been runner-up twice and finished in the Top 10 seven times.

“I am thrilled to enter into this great partnership with Bass Pro Shops and Nitro boats,” stated Williamson. “It is a privilege to be associated with these two solid companies that are run by fishermen who have a passion for the sport like I do and understand what it takes to make tournament fishermen successful.”

Mercer is at it again... 3/10/2010 8:03:29 AM

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Nothing better than a smelt sandwich? How about Facts of Fishing FYI?

Brent Ehrler, Bradley Roy, Pond Smelt & Godzilla! All on Facts of Fishing FYI. To watch click here.

Crankbait Rod Meets the Hype 3/9/2010 10:59:10 PM

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We recently tested the new Wright & McGill Skeet Reese Signature Series Tri-Gressive S-Glass Crankbait rod on Kentucky Lake and prespawn bass. To read the review, click here.

Lane's Pain Eased ... a Little 3/9/2010 10:02:42 PM

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By Alan McGuckin

If you were there in person, or you saw Russ Lane in the Bassmaster Classic Day 3 episode on ESPN 2, you surely felt the emotional dejection he felt on the final day’s weigh-in stage. Well, life just got a little brighter for the Lane family. Toyota Trucks Bonus Bucks officials just took a little of the sting away for Lane by informing him that he won a $7,500 bonus for being the highest finishing eligible Toyota Truck owner among the Classic participants.

Lane, a three-time Classic qualifier was seen as one of the ‘home field favorites’ at this year’s event as well as at the 2007 Classic on Lay Lake, based on the hundreds of amateur events he competed in at Lay when honing his skills for the Bassmaster Elite Series. Lane’s beefy Day 3 catch was impressive, but left him in a heart-wrenching 4th place finishing position. Russ earned $30,000 in prize money versus VanDam’s winning $500,000 pot.

Still, Lane who became eligible for the Toyota Trucks Bonus Bucks program last year when he purchased a Tundra as his tow vehicle can use the $7,500 in Bonus Bucks to buy roughly 2,630 gallons of boat and truck gas with, a hundred or so nights worth of hotel room rental fees, or a portion of his 2010 Elite Series entry fees.

Cliff Pace who purchased and tows with a Tundra along the Bassmaster Elite Series trail also cashed-in at the 2010 Bassmaster Classic as an eligible member of the Toyota Trucks Bonus Bucks program. He earned $2,500 for his 14th place finish in Birmingham as the second-highest eligible Bonus Bucks participant. Ironically, Pace was the second highest Bonus Bucks participant behind Toyota Sequoia owner Alton Jones at the 2008 Bassmaster Classic.

Bonus Bucks is simple. Drive a 2007 or newer Tundra, Sequoia, 4Runner or Tacoma, send in your registration form like Russ and Cliff did, become the highest finishing eligible participant in your BASS or FLW affiliated tournament – and you win the Bonus Bucks. To find out more, and to make sure you’re signed-up visit toyotatrucksbonusbucks.com or call Kendell at (918) 742-6424.

An Open Letter from Irwin Jacobs...FLW 3/9/2010 5:42:47 PM

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An Open Letter Regarding FLW Outdoors

There has been a great deal of discussion regarding FLW Outdoors and the sport of professional angling and I feel it is important to address the industry and hopefully put to rest any questions, concerns and rumors.

First and foremost, FLW Outdoors has and will continue to do everything possible to grow our organization and the sport. While our decisions may not always be accepted and understood, I can promise you there are many things that are taken into account prior to making them. FLW Outdoors, like most other businesses, has been affected by the downturn in the economy and again, we are doing the best we can to overcome these challenging times and stay healthy for the future. Yes, this has meant cutbacks in areas of our business as well.

We realize that this has had a significant impact on anglers and have done our best to listen and react as best we can. I want to encourage anglers to be aggressive and creative in finding ways to self-promote, whether through websites, social networks or within our television show and magazine whenever possible. Fans need and want individuals to support and follow.

We recognize the importance of this for both the fans as well as the anglers and realize this has been difficult in the past for anglers who are not sponsor-compliant with our current logo rules. Our logo rules have played a very important and valuable role in FLW Outdoors’ history. However, the landscape of our sport has changed quite dramatically and we are in the final stages of reviewing our current logo requirements in order to help the anglers promote themselves more effectively under the FLW Outdoors umbrella.

One thing that I need to set straight once and for all is this idea that “Irwin Jacobs is filling his pockets.” This simply is not true and quite the contrary. In fact, I don’t think it is a secret that I got into the fishing tournament business for the purpose of marketing and promoting the Ranger Boat Company. While this original purpose has changed since the recent purchase of Ranger, Stratos and Champion boats by Platinum Equity, I can promise you that I am as committed to growing FLW Outdoors as I was the day I bought Operation Bass 15 years ago, which ultimately was renamed FLW Outdoors.

The reason for changing our name was to allow FLW Outdoors the freedom to expand into other areas besides bass fishing which is what we have done. We’ve made some significant enhancements to this year’s events as we’ve expanded our reach into the outdoors beyond just fishing.

Our FLW Tour events now include Outdoor Expos offering a wide variety of booths and interactive games for our fans to visit and shop. This also offers anglers a prime opportunity to promote themselves. While fishing is at FLW Outdoors’ core, the outdoors in general brings a whole new level of opportunity and quite frankly, I am more optimistic about our future with this new focus than ever before.

While it is our goal to have all aspects of our business finalized and completed prior to the start of each season, it is not always possible. We are still talking to prospective sponsors and hope to continue announcing new partners as the season continues.

As always, we continue to listen to feedback from anglers, fans and sponsors, and when it makes good business sense, we’re open to making modifications. Having said this, we will be announcing some changes in the near future to better serve the anglers, fans and our sponsors, all of whom make FLW Outdoors possible.

Sincerely,

Irwin L. Jacobs

Chairman

FLW Outdoors

Berkley Trailer on the move again...heading to Maryland 3/9/2010 10:28:58 AM

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The Berkley Experience Trailer will be at the Bass Pro Shops in Hanover, M.D., for the next stop in 2010. The 60-foot trailer of fun and activities brings fishing education to all skill levels of anglers. The scheduled stop for the Berkley Experience Trailer is March 12th and is set to end March 14th.

The trailer has new videos and interactive demonstrations on line and bait. The Berkley Experience Team will have seminars scheduled throughout the day to cover the four main components of fishing:

Line Selection
Rigging Techniques for Bait
Reel Maintenance
Rod Selection

Each stop has special retail promotions only available while the trailer is at the location. These include line, bait, rods, reels and combos.

“We are excited about having the Experience Trailer on the road in 2010 and stopping at many new locations across the country,” said Andrew Marks, Sr. Marketing Manager. "Our Experience Trailer staff is ready to help anglers of all ages and skill levels learn about fishing, our products and how best to use them to catch more fish.”

Other exciting elements include a knot tying contest and demonstration, where you can learn new knots and even win a prize. Under the tent, we will have racks filled with the latest products and big screen videos that help you experience the adventure with Berkley. The Berkley Experience staff is always on hand to help answer any questions that you have about our innovative products.

UPCOMING BERKLEY EXPERIENCE STOPS

March 12th – 14th
Bass Pro Shops
7000 Arundel Mills Circle
Hanover, MD 21076

March 19th – 21st
Effinger’s Sporting Goods
513 West Union Ave.
Bound Brook, NJ 08805

Swimbait time again...Optimum Style 3/8/2010 7:56:03 PM

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The BASS Elites starts this week in the Delta and we are going out on to a limb and bet that swimbaits will play a role. Remember last year Jason Williamson parlayed a swimbait into a heavyweight win at Amistad and the season got off and running. Optimum Baits has a new swimbait that Bill Lowen, Mark Tyler and Fred Roumbanis may have in their arsenal called a Optimum BLT(Baby Line Through) that takes hooking big agressive swimmers to a new level. It always swims true and many times the bait will slide up the line keeping it from bunching up on the hook on big fish.

The Baby Line Thru is designed to fish with a moderate to fast retrieve and the tail kick imitates fleeing bait. The BLT features an irresistible tight wobble and roll and is perfect for locating fish quickly by fan casting in the shallows or slowly dragging in deeper areas. The Delta and Clear Lake should be prime for this type of technique as bass should be in pre-spawn, spawn and post spawn.

The 3” BLT is worked best with a medium action rod about 6’6” -7’ on 8-14lb line while the 5” should be fished with a 7’ medium heavy rod and 14-20lb line.

The BLT will catch bass from coast to coast and because of its two sizes can be fished for both largemouth and smallmouth bass.

To learn more and watch some killer videos click here.

Kriet Attributes Line to Success 3/8/2010 4:32:58 PM

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Bassmaster photo

Off of back-to-back second-place finishes on the Bassmaster Elite Series, Jeff Kriet, attributed much of his success to having good quality line in his arsenal. Kriet fished an extremely solid tournament over the three days in some of the toughest conditions ever in Bassmaster Classic history. With a slim lead after the second day of competition, Kriet finished the event in second place with 46 pounds, 6 ounces. A big part of Kriet’s success on Lay Lake was his line choice. Kriet was using HI-SEAS brand new four-color camouflage Quattro 100% Fluorocarbon line and HI-SEAS original 100% Fluorocarbon line.

“At Lay Lake, a big part of my deal was being able to make really long throws on pressured fish,” said Kriet. “When I hooked a fish, the thought of breaking off never crossed my mind. When I hooked up, I knew that fish was mine. Both 15-pound HI-SEAS 100% Fluorocarbon line and the new Quattro 100% Fluorocarbon line paved my way to a second place finish on lay lake.”

“Jeff is a first rate angler," said Mike Shields, HI-SEAS Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "His professionalism and experience as an angler are commendable. We are excited for Jeff and his accomplishment at the 2010 Bassmaster Classic and are proud to have Jeff as a member of the HI-SEAS team.”

HI-SEAS released the new, four- color camouflage Quattro 100% Fluorocarbon line as an addition to their extremely high quality family of lines in September of 2009.

“The biggest part of competing against the highest caliber anglers is having confidence in your tools. One of my key tools is HI-SEAS line. With it, I know I have the best line available. My line is probably the most critical tool I have, since it’s the direct connection with the fish. I can tell it’s the best line available.”

Open Sign-ups Begin Today for PAA 3/8/2010 4:22:30 PM

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Open registration begins today (Monday, Mar. 8th) for any angler wishing to participate in the 2010 PAA Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series that begins in July.

Open call-in dates are March 8-12 for all anglers who plan to sign up for all four PAA Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series events this season.

This is the third of four registration periods. Tournament entry fees are $2,500 per event with a $750 deposit per event.

Tournaments this season will include PAA member observers who will have chances to win prizes based on their pro’s performance, as well as a chance to compete in an all new Pro-Am format on Saturday. Details of both programs will be announced soon.

2010 PAA Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series Schedule:

July 8-10: Lake Cherokee, Morristown, Tenn.
Aug. 12-14:* Lake Norman, Charlotte, N.C.
Sept. 9-11: Lake Tawakoni, Garland, Texas
Oct. 14-16: Table Rock Lake, Branson, Mo.

Tournament format:
• 30 day off-limits before first practice day (no info and not on water)
• 3-day official practice (Sunday- Tuesday)*
• 1 off day (Wednesday) for registration and other activities*
• 3-day tournament (Thursday- Saturday)
• Full field the first two days
• Top 30 will fish the final day and weigh in at Bass Pro Shops store
• Pro only – must be a TOUR level member of PAA to fish any tournament in 2010 – anglers can become a TOUR level member of PAA upon registering for the Series events
• Member Observers all three days

*To accommodate anglers competing in the Forrest Wood Cup, the official practice period for Lake Norman will begin Monday (8/9/10) instead of Sunday, with no off day prior to competition.

To register, contact the PAA office at (270) 527-2030.

Spro offers pro clothing... 3/8/2010 4:08:25 PM

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Dress like a Spro Pro with Spro Clothing...

Spro is pleased to announce they have partnered with ProStaff Gear and a new website to offer some exciting new Spro branded clothing. Check out new t-shirts and hoodies featuring Little Johns, Bronzeye Frogs and Spro logo gear. Big Bite Baits, Jewel and Sunline apparel is also available. Check out all the new clothing by clicking here.

Brauer and the Smoking Rooster... 3/8/2010 2:08:58 PM

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Check out this video with Denny Brauer and the Strike King Smokin' Rooster. You need to check out the sleeves on his shirt too. Trash talking Brauer style on the Strike King Pro Team Journal. Click here to view.

Minn Kota Rich Media... 3/8/2010 10:52:27 AM

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One of the cool new features of the 2.0 Wired2Fish website is rich media. Minn Kota was the first to take advantage of this technology on Wired. All you have to do is roll your mouse over the Minn Kota ad, click on the video link and it will open up to videos, information and much more. Be on the lookout for more great features on Wired2Fish.com.

Oakley Big Bass Tour joins Wired2Fish... 3/8/2010 8:21:10 AM

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The Oakley Big Bass Tour, sponsored by Oakley Sunglasses, has joined Wired2Fish as an advertiser for 2010. The Oakley Big Bass Tour is a premier big bass tournament series open to all amateur anglers. The Oakley Big Bass Tour will provide anglers of all skill levels with an exciting tournament format on some of the nations best bass fisheries. Established in 2007 the Oakley Big Bass Tour is focused on the promotion of bass fishing and bass conservation at the grass roots level through our tournament events. The Oakley O-Lab, a state of the art mobile eyewear lab, will be on site at the events to show what makes Oakley Sunglasses the leader in premium quality sunglasses. Just ask KVD and Dean Rojas.

March 13-14, 2010 the first event will be held on Lake Conroe in Texas.

For more on the Oakley Big Bass Tour click here.

Barnes Toad... 3/7/2010 3:32:23 PM

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Lake Fork Tackle owner Ronnie Parker sent us this picture of Larry Barnes and his 10.5 pound largie from Lake Fork on March 5. He caught it on a Chatterbait with a Lake Fork Live Magic Shad trailer. This is Texas? Looks cold but what a fish.

Lane on Tour... 3/7/2010 3:18:57 PM

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Elite Series pro Russ Lane has a new blog on the Big Bite Baits website that will chronicle his days on the Tour. To read click here.

Ehrler Wins Big on Table Rock 3/6/2010 6:12:23 PM

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Photo by Rob Newell for FLWOutdoors.com (see their great coverage of the event here).

Brent Ehrler put up one of the most impressive wins in FLW Tour history today on Table Rock Lake. Not only was his 69-11 amazing for four days on a very tough fishery in very tough conditions, but the ease in which he did it was remarkable. Not to mention he just drove back from the west coast where he notched a win out there. So it's the first week of March and Mr. Ehrler has already made nearly $175,000 for the year. Look for an in-depth interview with Brent later this week on what makes him tick and why his game has elevated so much in recent years.

Think about this for a second. Ehrler beat second place by 13 pounds, 2 ounces. Which Ron Shuffield had an amazing tournament in his own right. Yet, Ehrler beat fifth place finisher Greg Pugh, by 31 pounds. Simply amazing.

Ehrler of Redlands, Calif., caught a five-bass limit weighing 16 pounds, 13 ounces Saturday to win $127,500 at the FLW Tour event presented by Cabela’s on Table Rock Lake with a four-day catch of 20-bass weighing 69-1

The catch gave him the win by a solid 13-pound, 2-ounce margin over Ron Shuffield of Bismarck, Ark., who caught a total of five bass weighing 17-10 and earned $40,000. For the tournament, Shuffield caught 18 bass for a total weight of 56-9.

“I found a magical spot,” said Ehrler, who is on fire with back-to-back wins having won at Lake Shasta in January. “I was in a creek on the White River and it was a perfect pre-spawn area. It was the first creek bend the fish came to and the fish seemed to be suspended there just above the trees. I was keeping my boat in 30-35 feet of water and then casting to about 12-15 feet.

“I caught the majority of my fish using a Yamamoto Curly Tail Grub. I was experimenting a little bit with Lucky Craft DD jerkbaits, which is what I caught my 6-pounder on Thursday with, but the majority came using the grub.”

Colder than normal water temperatures made the fish do strange things and hide in strange locations making one of the best fishing lakes in the country an even bigger challenge for some of the best anglers. Ehrler was the only angler at Table Rock to catch a limit each day.

Ehrler opened the tournament in third place Wednesday with five bass weighing 16-6 while fishing in the White River. On Thursday, he added another five bass weighing 22-2 using a Lucky Craft DD 100 jerkbait to catch his 6-pounder to capture the lead. He then caught five bass weighing 14-6 on Friday to make the crucial top-5 cut in first place. On Saturday he sealed his victory using the same 5-inch Yamamoto grubs he used throughout the tournament.

The remaining top-five pros finished the tournament in:

3^rd:     Mike Wurm, Hot Springs, Ark., 16 bass, 46-6, $30,000
4^th:     Bryan Thrift, Shelby, N.C., 15 bass, 44-1, $20,000
5^th:     Greg Pugh, Cullman, Ala., 13 bass, 38-8, $18,000

Purdue Bests Bull Shoals 3/6/2010 5:57:50 PM

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The Purdue University team of Chad Dunham and Alex Lowe won the National Guard FLW College Fishing Central Division event on Bull Shoals Lake Saturday with three bass weighing 7 pounds, 8 ounces. The victory earned the team $10,000 to be split evenly between the university and the university’s bass-fishing club. The win also helped them advance to the Central Division Regional Championship where they could ultimately win a Ranger 177TR with a 90-horsepower engine wrapped in school colors for their school’s club and $25,000 for the school they represent.

“It was tough, but we just kept chuggin’,” Dunham said. “We started out deep, moved around a little, had some boat trouble, got through that and just kept going.

“I started the day using jerkbaits and YUM Money Minnows in deep water and nothing was happening so we moved to the mouth of the cove to try up there, still nothing. Then my partner put on a Storm Wiggle Wart and got a fish, so I decided to try it too and was able to get two more with the Wiggle Wart and luckily that’s all we needed.”

Only 21 teams weighed in today, however many were just happy to be fishing on an ice free lake including the team from Purdue University.

“This was my first time on Bull Shoals and my first FLW Outdoors tournament,” Lowe said. “We are so surprised to be in first spot-with only three bass. We came to the scales just hoping to make the top-5, but to actually win, what a thrill.”

Rounding out the top five teams today were Winona State University – Jerry Jonsgaard and Zac Cassill (one bass 4-13, $5,000); Henderson State – Justin Westfall and Michael Jennings (one bass, 4-8, $4,000); Southeast Missouri State – Andrew Pinkley and Jim McDevitt (two bass, 4-7, $3,000); Truman State University – Mike McCarthy, Jr., and Spencer Clark (two bass, 4-6, $2,000).

Burgess Back for Seconds 3/6/2010 8:20:12 AM

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For the second consecutive year, Massachusetts pro Mark Burgess will follow his dreams on the Bassmaster Elite Series, and for the second time, he will also chronicle his season through a journal on ESPNOutdoors.com.

The journal will feature the ups and downs of life on the road for a sophomore pro trying to gain a foothold in the ultra competitive world of professional bass fishing.

“I just want to be able to share my experiences of what it is like to fish at this level and what life is like on the road for a professional bass angler,” Burgess said. “I think the journal is a great way to provide inspiration to those who have aspirations of becoming a professional angler.”

After a rookie campaign that was occasionally thrilling but often frustrating, Burgess spent the winter evaluating where he needed to improve his game. In addition to assessing necessary on-the-water improvements, he worked hard to gain new sponsors. Those include Storage Max, a climate-controlled self-storage chain in New England and Purple Turtle Productions, a regional film production company. Mark is also beginning a new relationship with a company called BioEdge, a company which specializes in scents. He’ll be using their products for the first time in California.

He added those two new partners to his existing group of corporate sponsors – companies including Skeeter, Yamaha, Reaction Strike, Minn Kota, Humminbird, Bass Boat Saver, Power Pole, and Costa. After years in the business as a company rep, he understands how the industry works.

Follow Mark’s no-holds-barred account of his season online, with new entries posted after each Elite Series tournament along with selected Open-level events.

For more information about Mark Burgess, go to markburgessfishing.com.

For more information about B.A.S.S., go to bassmaster.com.

Ehrler on Cruise Control into the Finals 3/6/2010 8:11:04 AM

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Melton Wins Co-Angler Title, $25,000

National Guard pro Brent Ehrler of Redlands, Calif., caught a five-bass limit weighing 14 pounds, 6 ounces Friday to maintain the lead at the FLW Tour event presented by Cabela’s on Table Rock Lake, advancing to the top five as the crucial No. 1 seed. With a three-day catch of 15 bass weighing 52-14 he now holds a 13-pound, 15-ounce lead in the tournament going in to the final day of competition.

“I feel very fortunate,” said Ehrler, who will be making his 21st top-10 appearance which includes six tour wins in just five years. “I have never been in this position before (leading by nearly 14 pounds). I saw FLW Tour pro David Fritts go into the final day of competition with an 18-20 pound lead, and I thought, 'wow, that would be real nice.' Now, I’m just real nervous.”

Ehrler fished the same underwater point all week long and hoped it would hold out one more day. It’s a staging area right now, and the fish are just waiting there for the water to warm up. It’s an area that goes from deep to shallow with a lot of timber and rocks. He has been enjoying an incredible early bite and really hasn’t caught any keepers past noon. All but about 5 pounds of his total weight have come from this magical area.

Rounding out the top-5 pros and advancing to the final day’s competition are:

            2nd:        Ron Shuffield, Bismarck, Ark., five bass, 14-4 for a three-day total of 13 bass, 38-15
            3rd:        Bryan Thrift, Shelby, N.C., four bass, 9-14 for a three-day total of 14 bass, 38-14
            4th:        Greg Pugh, Cullman, Ala., four bass, 9-5 for a three-day total of 13 bass, 38-8
            5th:        Mike Wurm, Hot Springs, Ark., three bass, 7-9 for a three-day total of 13 bass, 37-12

The rest of the top-10 pros include some of the greatest anglers in the world and they are:

            6th:     National Guard pro Scott Martin, Clewiston, Fla., 10 bass, 35-14, $17,000
            7th:     Mark Rose, Marion, Ark., 14 bass, 34-9, $16,000
            8th:     Andy Morgan, Dayton, Tenn., 13 bass, 33-6, $15,000
            9th:     Adam Wagner, Cookeville, Tenn., 13 bass, 32-4, $14,000
            10th:   Folgers pro Scott Suggs, Bryant, Ark., 12 bass, 31-11, $13,000

Overall there were 238 bass weighing 600 pounds, 1 ounce caught by 148 pros Friday. The catch included only 11 five-bass limits.

Pros are competing for a top award of up to $125,000 this week plus valuable points in the hope of qualifying for the Forrest Wood Cup which will be held Aug. 5- 8 at Lake Lanier in Atlanta, Ga., where they could win as much as $600,000 – the sport’s biggest award.

Shane Melton of Greentown, Ind., won the Co-angler Division and $25,000 Friday with a three-day total of 9 bass weighing 26 pounds, 10 ounces followed by Brad Roberts of Nancy, Ky., in second place with 8 bass weighing 26-1 worth $9,862.

Melton opened the tournament in first place and never looked back. On Wednesday he had the only five-bass limit weighing 13-9 while fishing with pro Bryan Thrift of Shelby, N.C. On Thursday, he maintained the lead on the strength of three bass weighing 6-15 while fishing with pro Mark Rose of Marion, Ark. He sealed the win Friday with only one-bass weighing 6-2 while fishing with pro Chad Morgenthaler of Coulterville, Ill.

“I have been nervous all day,” said Melton, who earned his first FLW Tour co-angler victory. “I just had a great week, I got to fish with my heroes, some of the best anglers in the world, and I am just thrilled. I was so nervous up on stage I forgot my wife’s name! I still can’t believe it! Fishing is my peace. Phenomenal is the only way to describe this week.”

While fishing with three different pros one of the only things that remained consistent for Melton was his bait. He caught all his fish using Mann’s Sting Ray Grub in deep water.

Rounding out the top-10 co-anglers are:

      3rd:   Mark Myers, Cedar Falls, Iowa, seven bass, 18-13, $7,395
      4th:   Van Roy Foster, Jr., Dalton, Ga., five bass, 16-5, $4,928
      5th:   Sean Stepp, Stafford, Va., five bass, 16-4, $3,942
      6th:   Todd Lee, Jasper, Ala., five bass, 15-9, $2,955
      7th:   Teddy Bradley, Mishawaka, Ind., seven bass, 15-6, $2,462
      8th:   Mike Foree, Osage Beach, Mo., six bass, 13-12, 1,968
      9th:   Jerry Willis, Atlanta, Ga., five bass, 13-4, $1,722
      10th: Chad Parks, Olive Branch, Miss., six bass, 13-2, $1,475

Co-anglers are also fishing for valuable points that could help them qualify for the 2010 Forrest Wood Cup.

Overall there were 83 bass weighing 227 pounds, 10 ounces caught by 148 co-anglers Friday. The catch included only one five-bass limit.

Choosing the BEST reel for the job... 3/5/2010 11:34:06 AM

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Today on Wired Radio with Terry Brown Quantum's Chris Strickland talks about reel specifics and choosing the right reel for the job. To listen click here.

Clark Wendlandt joins Cabela’s 3/5/2010 10:51:43 AM

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Three-time FLW Angler of the Year joins Cabela’s winning team

Professional angler Clark Wendlandt has signed on to become part of Cabela’s Pro Staff team. In 2009, Wendlandt was named FLW Angler of the Year for the third time, more than any other angler on the FLW Tour, ranking him among the most successful tournament bass anglers in history.

As a member of Cabela’s Pro Staff, Wendlandt will serve as an ambassador of the company and the sport of professional angling, appearing at Cabela’s retail stores and other events. He will also guest host episodes of Cabela’s Ultimate Adventures television show and promote Cabela’s throughout his travels.

While on the water, Wendlandt will use Cabela’s-brand products and run a Ranger boat wrapped with Cabela’s graphics. His knowledge and on-the-water experience are incredible assets to Cabela’s field-tested, field-proven product development process.

Wendlandt holds the record for the most semifinal appearances in FLW history – 34, and is a three-time FLW tournament champion. In addition to being the only three-time Angler of the Year, he has finished in the top 10 in the overall yearly standings eight times. He has qualified for the FLW Championship 12 times and finished in the top 10 six times.

Clark Wendlandt lives in Leander, Texas, with his wife and two children.

Fork Bigun... 3/5/2010 10:46:29 AM

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Yesterday, March 4, Brent Homan of the Army Bass Anglers caught this 10.2-pound hog on Lake Fork, Texas while fishing with Pro angler Mark Pack. Brent caught her on a 3/8-ounce Phenix Vibrator jig with a 3 1/2-inch Lake Fork Trophy Lures Live Magic Shad trailer, both jig and shad were in the new sun perch color. It is Brent's personal best fish. Nice fish Brent.

Gemini increases college involvement... 3/5/2010 7:23:46 AM

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Careco Multimedia announced today that Gemini Sport Marketing is returning as a sponsor of the 2010 BoatU.S. Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship Series.

"As a long time supporter of tournament anglers, Gemini is making a major contribution to the future of tournament bass fishing as a result of supporting collegiate fishing", said Wade Middleton, tournament director. "Gemini's discount pricing and incentive programs allow collegiate anglers to show off their school pride, promote sponsors and be rewarded at the same time. We're proud to continue our partnership with such an outstanding company."

Every sport has a uniform and bass fishing is no different. Customized, high performance jerseys allow bass anglers to look sharp, effectively promote sponsors and remain comfortable while enduring the rigors of tournament fishing.

With help from Gemini Sport Marketing, collegiate anglers are able to showcase their school logo and colors, along with sponsor logos on their jerseys. "These anglers are able to get the jerseys the pros wear on a college budget," said Brad Raymond, Gemini Sport Marketing vice president. Gemini makes this possible through a discount purchasing program that allows the student anglers to order all apparel at a 20% discount with all artwork and setup fees waived. For example, Extreme Dye Sublimation (XDS) G2 Gemini jerseys are available to collegiate anglers at a cost of only $76.

Raymond also explained that Gemini has created a new incentive program for the 2010 BoatU.S. Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship Series: "The highest placing team in each qualifying event that wears G2 Gemini jerseys with our logo displayed will receive (1) each, custom sublimated performance hooded sweatshirt to match their tournament jerseys. These have a retail value of $120 each. The top 3 placing teams at the 2010 BoatU.S. Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship will receive custom hoodies as well. These student anglers are great ambassadors to the sport and we are proud to have them wear G2 Gemini jerseys."

For more information about all of Gemini's products, visit www.geminisportmarketing.com.

Ehrler Having Fun and Taking Names 3/4/2010 7:51:34 PM

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Trees Have Been Key for Both Day One and Day Two Leaders

National Guard pro Brent Ehrler of Redlands, Calif., caught a five-bass limit weighing 22 pounds, 2 ounces Thursday to capture the lead on day two of the FLW Tour event presented by Cabela’s on Table Rock Lake. His two-day catch of 10 bass weighing 38-pounds, 8-ounces gives him a commanding lead in the tournament which features 148 pros and 148 co-anglers from across the United States.

“I can’t wait to go fishing tomorrow, I am just so excited,” said Ehrler, who is coming off an FLW Series National Guard Western Division win at Lake Shasta in January. “I had a great day today. I found two great areas and wanted to quit at noon. I also had a couple of random lucky bites that really helped me tip the scales this afternoon.”

Ehrler fished an underwater point and said he fished hundreds of spots like it, but none with the amount of fish he saw here. The area is a ledge with plenty of brush and trees. He is using reaction baits to haul in his limit.

“I haven’t had a chance to pick the area apart yet, so I haven’t figured out what makes it so special," he said. "The area is full of fish, and I am getting a lot of bites with some big ones mixed in. Although I did not get my big one in that area today, I know they are there. I am looking forward to fishing it tomorrow and hopefully wearing it out on Saturday."

“I have never had more fun netting fish than today,” said Ehrler’s co-angler, Ken Keirsey of Owasso, Okla. who currently sits tied for 67th place. “And truth be told, he wanted to quit at eight! He is just an awesome angler and so much fun to fish with. I had a great time.”

Mike Wurm of Hot Springs, Ark., is in second on the pro side with a two-day total of 10 bass weighing 30-3.

“I’m just doing what I love to do,” Wurm said. “I’m using a finesse jig with a spinner rod and 10-pound braid line.

“I am being very slow and deliberate with my presentation. If you’re barely moving, you’re moving too much. I am running about 45 miles to an area with a stretch of three to four banks that have worked well for me so far this week. I am just hoping it holds up. As we all know anything can happen at Table Rock Lake. Someone could bring in a 22- to 25-pound catch and blow us all out of the water.”

Rounding out the top-10 pros after day two on Table Rock Lake are:

      3rd:   Greg Pugh, Cullman, Ala., four bass, 10-8 for a two day total of nine bass, 29-3
      4th:   Bryan Thrift, Shelby, N.C., five bass, 14-3 for a two day total of 10 bass, 29-0
      5th:   Chevy pro Dion Hibdon, Stover, Mo., five bass, 21-2 for a two day total of seven bass, 25-10
      6th:   National Guard pro Scott Martin, Clewiston, Fla., two bass 11-1 for a two day total of seven bass, 25-8
      7th:   Robert Harkness, Elizabeth, W.Va., five bass, 13-5 for a two day total of 10 bass, 25-7
      8th:   Mark Rose, Marion, Ark., five bass, 12-13 for a two day total of 10 bass, 25-0
      9th:   Joe Thomas, Milford, Ohio, three bass, 9-8 for a two day total of eight bass, 24-15
     10th:   Ron Shuffield, Bismarck, Ark., five bass, 15-6 for a two day total of eight bass, 24-11

Overall there were 232 bass weighing 648 pounds, caught on the pro side Thursday. The catch included 12 five-bass limits.

FLW Outdoors sports a full field consisting of 150 of the nation’s top pro anglers who will compete in the entire 2010 FLW Tour season. Due to family emergencies two pros had to drop out of the Table Rock event where anglers are competing for a top award of up to $125,000, which will still be based on the full 150 boat field and will feature a full payback through 50th place. Anglers are also vying for valuable points in the hope of qualifying for the Forrest Wood Cup. This year’s Cup will be held Aug. 5- 8 at Lake Lanier in Atlanta, Ga., where pros could win as much as $600,000 – the sport’s biggest award.

Shane Melton of Greentown, Ind., has a narrow lead in the Co-angler Division with two-day total of eight bass weighing 20 pounds, 8 ounces, followed by Brad Roberts of Nancy, Ky., in second place with six bass weighing 19-9.

“I have been very fortunate to have drawn two anglers that are the best in the business,” Melton said. “Yesterday was amazing and I am just excited to go back out there tomorrow.”

Melton caught five bass weighing 13-9 while fishing with pro Bryan Thrift of Shelby, N.C., Wednesday and three bass weighing 6-15 while fishing with pro Mark Rose of Marion, Ark., Thursday.

Second place Roberts weighed in a monster bag at 16 pounds and 9 ounces.

“We started in dirty water about eight to 10-feet deep,” said Roberts, who was fishing with pro Jason Cordiale of Orinda, Calif. “I caught a big fish early so my pro and I knew we were in an area that had fish and we just tried to key in on them. I was using a Cumberland Pro 3/8” casting jig in an oops color. I actually culled twice.”

Rounding out the top-10 co-anglers are:

      3rd:   Todd Lee, Jasper, Ala., one bass, 4-2 for a two day total of four bass, 13-0
      4th:   Darrell Mitchell, Taneyville, Mo., zero bass for a two day total of four bass, 12-10
      5th:   Mike Foree, Osage Beach, Mo., three bass, 6-13 for a two day total of five bass, 11-10
      6th:   Chad Parks, Olive Branch, Miss., one bass, 2-7 for a two day total of five bass, 11-3
      7th:   Teddy Bradley, Mishawaka, Ind., one bass, 2-0 for a two day total of five bass, 10-13
      8th:   Jason Law, Waycross, Ga., one bass, 3-0 for a two day total of two bass, 9-10
      9th:   Steve Meador, Bella Vista, Ark., two bass, 3-11 for a two day total of five bass, 9-5
     10th:   Sean Stepp, Stafford, Va., zero bass for a two day total of two bass, 8-13

Overall there were 76 bass weighing 199 pounds, 2 ounces caught by the co-anglers Thursday. The catch included one five-bass limit.

See flwoutdoors.com for more details.

T-H Marine joins PAA... 3/4/2010 6:16:07 PM

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T-H Marine Supplies, one of the most recognized companies in fishing and the marine industry, has joined the Professional Anglers Association as an associate sponsor of the 2010 PAA Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series.

The popular T-H Marine Supplies “Atlas Jackplate” will be the Official Jackplate of the PAA and will be featured on prize boat packages. Special pricing through the PAA Affinity Partner Program also will be available to members.

“I know just about all of the pro anglers and a lot of the tournament anglers who aspire to greater things,” said Bill Huntley with T-H Marine Supplies. “We believe the PAA is striving to meet its stated goals for the anglers. We’ve been pleased with our association with the PAA for the last couple of years.”

T-H Marine Supplies has “thousands of items,” Huntley said, from the small but necessary drain plugs and aerator heads to the larger and more visible Atlas Jackplate and Hot-Foot throttle system. Along with its OEM work that comprises the majority of its business, T-H Marine Supplies also has a successful after-market business.

“The things people think are just ‘parts’ are important and there are a lot of them in a boat,” Huntley said. “They’re all important in one way or another. We’re glad to be part of the marine industry and look forward to continuing our association with the PAA and its members.”

The PAA and T-H Marine Supplies will have special membership promotions throughout the season. T-H Marine Supplies also will showcase its products and pro staff anglers at retail promotions, tournament weigh-ins and other events.

Ehrler takes Day Two Lead in a Big Way... 3/4/2010 5:58:41 PM

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FLW pro and Wired2Fish angler Brent Ehrler took a commanding lead at the FLW Tour Event on Table Rock Lake with 38-08 pounds. His weight today was 22-02 pounds. In second place is Arkansas angler Mike Wurm with 30-03 pounds. In third is 1st day leader Greg Pugh with 29-03. A full story will follow.

KVD on the air... 3/4/2010 3:23:29 PM

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Today on Wired Radio with Terry Brown 2010 Bassmaster Classic Champion Kevin VanDam talks about the competition on the Elite Series, what it means to him to get his third win and how he approached the tournament from a strategy standpoint. To listen click here.

Nothing but Net 3/4/2010 2:26:48 PM

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Checkout our latest review of a slick new net -- the Frabill Hibernet. Click here to read more.

Rojas joins Oakley... 3/4/2010 12:21:55 PM

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Elite Series pro and "Frog King" Dean Rojas has landed Oakley Eyewear as a new sponsor for 2010. He solidified the deal at the Bassmaster Classic. "I am super pumped to be working with the makers of the best eyewear in the world and excited about what 2010 will bring as a result" said Rojas. Rojas is one of the best bed fishing anglers on tour and his teaming with Oakley could even make him tougher.

To learn more about Oakley click here.

Pugh leads Day One on Tough Table Rock... 3/4/2010 9:45:02 AM

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FLW photo

FLW Outdoors pro Greg Pugh of Cullman, Ala., crossed the stage Wednesday with a 5-bass limit weighing 18 pounds, 11 ounces to lead day one of the FLW Tour event on Table Rock Lake presented by Cabela’s. Pugh holds a 1-pound, 13-ounce lead in the tournament featuring 296 anglers from all across the country.

“The bite’s not easy, but it is good when you finally get one, you know it!” said Pugh, who is out for revenge after last year’s dismal 140^th place finish. “I was fortunate enough to find one spot where I got four big bites, including my 6 1/2 – pounder.

“I ran quite a ways today, about an hour ride; I found an area that was thick with trees and big fish. I just hope it holds out for the next couple of days. As a matter of fact the vegetation was so thick I actually had four bites that broke off and I was using 20 pound fluorocarbon line. I caught 11 keepers, culled a couple of times and missed several.”

Many of today’s top anglers were scratching their heads as they crossed the stage. The cold water temperatures have made for a very slow bite and they are hoping they will be able to make the necessary adjustments to help improve their showing tomorrow.

Rounding out the top-10 pros after day one on Table Rock Lake are:

2^nd: Mike Wurm, Hot Springs, Ark., 5 bass, 16-14

3^rd: National Guard pro Brent Ehrler, Redlands, Calif., 5 bass, 16-6

4^th: Brian Travis, Conover, N.C., 4 bass, 16-4

5^th: Joe Thomas, Milford, Ohio, 5 bass, 15-7

6^th: Bryan Thrift, Shelby, N.C., 5 bass, 14-13
7^th: David Walker, Sevierville, Tenn., 5 bass, 14-12

     8^th:   Goodwill pro Wesley Strader, Spring City, Tenn., 4 bass, 14-10

            9^th:   National Guard pro Scott Martin, Clewiston, Fla., 5 bass, 14-7

            10^th: Adam Wagner, Cookeville, Tenn., 5-bass, 12-10

Overall there were 274 bass weighing 753 pounds, 7 ounces caught by 148 pros Thursday. The catch included only 14 five-bass limits.

FLW Outdoors sports a full field consisting of 150 pro anglers for the 2010 FLW Tour season. Due to family emergencies two pros had to drop out of the Table Rock event where anglers are competing for a top award of up to $125,000, which is based on the full 150 boat field, which will feature a full payback through 50^th place. Anglers are also vying for valuable points in the hope of qualifying for the Forrest Wood Cup. This year’s Cup will be held Aug. 5- 8 at Lake Lanier in Atlanta, Ga., where pros could win as much as $600,000 – the sport’s biggest award.

Shane Melton of Greentown, Ind., leads the Co-angler Division with five bass weighing 13-9 followed by Darrell Mitchell of Taneyville, Mo., in second place with five bass weighing 12-10.

Melton took the early lead in the tournament while fishing with Chad Morgenthaler of Coulterville, Ill., who is currently in 70^th place with one bass weighing 4-14.

“I was using the right bait and got lucky,” said second place Mitchell, who was fishing with pro Jason Cordiale of Orinda, Calif. “We were each doing our own thing and I happened to get lucky.

“I caught my fish using a PJ jig with a grub; grubs seem to be the cold water bait. I was really surprised at my weight. We were out here this weekend for practice and I didn’t get one bite; I am feeling very fortunate today.”

Rounding out the top-10 co-anglers are:

3^rd: Todd Lee, Jasper, Ala., 3 bass, 8-14

4^th: Teddy Bradley, Mishawaka, Ind., 4 bass, 8-13

4^th: Sean Stepp, Stafford, Va., 2 bass, 8-13

6^th: Chad Parks, Olive Branch, Miss., 4 bass, 8-12
7^th: Eugene Robinett, Springfield, Mo., 3 bass, 8-2

      8^th:   Mike Jones, Lebanon, Mo., 3 bass, 7-7
            8^th:   Mike Simonds, Watertown, Wis., 2 bass, 7-7
            10^th: Jerry Thompson, Peoria, Ariz., 4 bass, 7-5

Overall there were 94 bass weighing 246 pounds, 4 ounces caught by 148 co-anglers Wednesday. The catch included only one five-bass limit.

Chrome is the New Black 3/3/2010 6:37:58 PM

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By Jason Sealock

Trends present themselves in every part of our life. Trends in fashion, in health and in music seem to dictate some folks lives. Wired2Fish anglers are guilty of the same with tackle. We follow fishing trends, one because it leads to good story material, but also because we're avid "fish heads." To be a versatile and effective angler, always look for what is working in different parts of the country to see how it can apply to fishing near home.

New trends in fishing are generally the results of anglers saying the same things to a lot of different parties. Swimbaits were the hot trend several years ago. A couple years ago Jackall and Seiji Kato introduced us to flick shaking with Kato winning the co-angler division of a Bassmaster Elite Series tournament on Lake Amistad and later creating the Jackall Flick Shake worm. Of course most know what Kelly Jordon did to put big spoons on the map with his exploits on Ultimate Match Fishing, something over which Kentucky Lake guides are still angry with him.

Occasionally colors trend. A couple years ago Strike King and Kevin VanDam introduced the world to Sexy Shad. It was simply a shad pattern with a sky blue back and a chartreuse strip down the side. From that moment and the amazing demand that followed, every manufacturer in the world started making baits in similar shad, blue and chartreuse schemes. Custom painters still do a ton of business with their versions of Sexy Shad.

The key isn't in seeing these things a year after they happen. Rather the ability to forecast that they're coming and know that there's something to all the hype will put a savvy angler ahead of the game on his local waters.

This year I've noticed at least three manufacturers added chrome varieties to their lineups. I'm not saying all the sudden chrome is going to be cool again. But I think while it lingered in obscurity for several years, there has been enough demand by anglers at some level to prompt manufacturers to get on the "chrome" band wagon again.

Lucky Craft introduced a chrome version of their popular Gunfish topwater bait. The bait looks sleek and effective. This bait in this color will be a killer in the southeast on lakes like Murray, Russell, Clarks Hill, and Lanier.

Tru-Tungsten added chrome to their line-up of Tru Life swimbaits. The offer them in blue back and black back options, and I see them being viable in the same situations. I'm curious if they will make swimbaits a little more effective in dingy water.

Strike King made sexy even sexier. They threw a chrome background behind their Sexy Shad pattern in both gold and silver hues. And it's well documented what Mr. VanDam did with the gold version a couple weeks ago on Lay Lake.

In my fishing I really only use chrome in two places, jerkbaits and lipless baits. But I can definitely see where it has applications in swimbaits, topwaters and even crankbaits. The popularity of the big chrome spoons might have helped put chrome back on the map. Who knows, but I look for a lot more chrome to come into several line-ups this season.

I'm anxious to know where chrome plays a vital role in your fishing. Sound off on our Facebook fan page and let us and the manufacturers know where chrome is hot and where you desperately need it in your fishing arsenal. A few custom painters make some sick chrome paint schemes, check out FLW Outdoors Magazine's blog about one such painter here.

I can already sense some chrome fishing clothing about to hit the scene. Soon we'll need our own fashion runway to keep up with fishing clothing trends.

Seaguar joins Wired2Fish... 3/3/2010 3:19:32 PM

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Seaguar Line has joined Wired2Fish as an advertiser for 2010. Known for having some of the best fluorocarbon line in fishing Seaguar will be introducing TATSU line in promotions, contests and advertising with Wired2Fish.

"Wired readers will be the beneficiaries of Seaguars industry wherewithal, products and information for months ahead and we are proud to have them join us here at Wired2Fish.com," said Terry Brown, President, Wired2Fish.

10 Questions with Elite Rookie Bradley Roy... 3/3/2010 9:42:19 AM

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By John Neporadny

Ten Questions with Elite Series Rookie Bradley Roy

Bradley Roy won the Junior Bassmaster World Championship in 2004 and this year he will be the first junior world champion to fish in the Bassmaster Elite Series. The following questions address his thoughts on his accomplishments, the Junior Bassmaster program and the high school bass fishing movement.

1. How does it feel to be the first Junior Bassmaster World Champion to compete in the Bassmaster Elite Series?

Roy: It is exciting. I am a product of the whole program and to be the first one to do it—and I know I won’t be the last-- is an exciting thing.

2. What have you learned from the junior program that helped you reach the Elite Series?

Roy: Learning the basics of being a tournament fisherman, the A to Z basic tournament stuff such as preparation and early morning launches. I also learned how to fish multiple-day tournaments and find fish that will last more than one day.

3. Who do you think influenced you the most during your time in the junior program?

Roy: Probably my father (Anthony) because he took me to tournaments and we always prefished together. I learned as much as I could from him. He was with me all the way through the juniors and he also fished the Federation Nation tournaments.

4. What advice do you have for other juniors striving to reach the level of success you have achieved?

Roy: Get on the water -- no matter where it is at -- as often as you can. The more you do it the better you get at it, which goes for any sport. Study what other guys do and learn what they do well. Build your weaknesses up by using someone else’s strengths.

5. What do you think about Illinois sanctioning fishing as a high school activity and the movement of other states to do the same?

Roy: I think it is a great opportunity for kids. I got an early start in fishing because I was blessed to have a father that fished. For some kids who do not have that, it is a great way to get them started when they are in high school and then they can develop into better fishermen. It gives them another option besides the standard basketball, football and baseball.

6. Eddie Goode has been working on getting a high school program started in your home state of Kentucky. Are you interested in helping in this effort if your schedule allows?

Roy: Yes. Any way I can because I realize I am a product from a similar type of program. That is what helped me develop so I would be more than happy to give back and do stuff like that.

7. Kalem Tippett and you are two world champions that have graduated from the Kentucky Junior Bassmaster program, why do you think your state’s junior program has been so successful?

Roy: There are a lot of good fathers in the program who are willing to put us out there, teach us how to fish and trust us with their equipment. Credit should also go to our presidents and youth director of the Kentucky Federation Nation. They have been geared and dedicated toward the juniors. It is a strong Federation all the way through the adult and junior programs. They always make sure we have plenty of tournaments to fish.

8. Who do you predict will be the next Junior Bassmaster World Champion to qualify for the Elite Series?

Roy: It is hard to say. You mentioned Kalem who is an unbelievable fisherman. I see in him the natural raw instincts that certain fisherman have. He certainly could be there in a heartbeat if he chooses to take that path.

9. Some of the pros who came up through the Federation Nation ranks are still involved in various Federation Nation functions such as speaking at banquets or helping out at club events, would you like to give back to the junior program in some way if you find time in your schedule?

Roy: Yeah. I realize where I came from and what developed me. so I would be more than happy to do that. In past years, I have been a boat captain whenever juniors needed one for their tournaments, and I plan on doing that this year with my wrapped Elite Series boat if I can work it out with my schedule.

10. What are your goals for your rookie season on the Elite Series trail?

Roy: My first and foremost goal is to win Rookie of the Year and re-qualify for the Elites. The biggest goal will be to qualify for the Bassmaster Classic.

Tietje's Craws 3/3/2010 9:04:49 AM

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Pete Robbins just wrote a great piece about rookie Elite Series angler Dennis Tietje and his intimate knowledge of crawfish. For an interesting read, click here.

VMC Hooks celebrates 100 years... 3/3/2010 7:39:05 AM

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This year, renowned French hook giant, VMC®, celebrates its 100th anniversary of creating the world's finest fish hooks. VMC is proud to have sustained hook production at its factory in France for 100 years, but interestingly enough, the VMC family did not set out to make fish hooks. They were reeled into the fishing industry by a rival brand.

Dating back to 1796, the family of Viellard-Migeon created a company and a tradition of manufacturing the highest quality steel products such as wires, screws and bolts. That same year, the Viellard family appointed Jean-Baptiste Migeon as manager of its steel forge. In 1835, Jean Baptiste's daughter married Juvenal Viellard. With this marriage, their initials were combined (V. - Viellard, M. - Migeon, and C. for company) to form VMC.

At the beginning of the 1900s in Europe, the two families shared a common industrial thread and close relations. VMC® produced wires, screws, nuts and bolts, while the other family, among other goods, produced high-quality fishing hooks. By mutual agreement, neither would sell in the other's markets.

But 1910 marked the dawn of a new era of competition. VMC's counterpart expanded their business and began to sell nuts and bolts on VMC's home soil in France. This decision fueled Charles Viellard to step-up the competition in turn and to diversify VMC's metalworking experience into fish hook manufacturing, the other family's specialty.

Ten British families from the hub of the UK's needle-making and fishing tackle industries were moved to France to help set up VMC's new fish hook department. Thus the VMC family began to produce fish hooks, setting the stage to see which family could produce the highest quality of fish hook.

The first VMC hooks were 100 percent handcrafted, utilizing one specific machine or tool for each stage of manufacturing, which produced a quality of hook that was unmatched.

VMC today: capturing business hook, line and sinker

Today, VMC produces 4 million hooks per day, with machines running around the clock to fill the demand. The company exports 70 percent of its hooks around the world.

"VMC's success has been made possible by years of experience and our ability to continue to develop and innovate in the market," said Stanislas de Castelnau, president and managing director of VMC. "But even more important is the savoir-faire of the people making our hooks."

VMC has consistently led the industry in treble hook design. The Needle Cone Point and the Cone Cut Point are just two of its world-famous designs. The Fastgrip triple mini-barb pattern was a world first. The company was also among the first to use Vanadium, a steel alloy for hook production.

VMC's success story doesn't stop there. In November 2000, Rapala - the world's leading brand of fishing lures - joined forces with VMC. Today, the vast majority of Rapala and Respected Rapala Brands lures are equipped with VMC treble hooks, delighting anglers and helping them reel in the big ones wherever water exists on the globe.

"VMC's 100th anniversary is an exciting milestone," said Tom Mackin, president of Rapala U.S.A. "Their superior-quality product and innovation will continue to set the benchmark in fish hook design and production."

For more information, please visit www.vmchooks.com.

Mustad and Strike King...a great springtime combination 3/2/2010 8:43:10 PM

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Kevin VanDam won the recent Bassmaster Classic and he spoke of two things. A new color Strike King Redeye Shad and a treble hook he designed for Mustad. Both worked in concert for a 5 pound win, a catfish, several shad, a few crappie, two back-hooked 4-pound bass and $500,000 dollars. When KVD speaks anglers notice and this past fall we got our first look at the new KVD Elite Mustad Triple Grips and we were impressed. Strong, super sharp, short shank for better holding power and 2X strength all combined into a hook that can be upsized so more fish get a boat ride. Where anglers used No. 4s they can now use bigger No. 2s without tangling because of the specially designed short shanks. Upsizing his hooks enabled VanDam to catch every fish that even breathed on his bait regardless of species.

The KVD Elites have been hotter than a two dollar pistol and are selling fast but the folks at Mustad tell us that they are up to the challenge and shipments are going out daily.

The Strike King Redeye Shad in the new Gold Sexy are almost on the shelves as well and for early spring fishing there is nothing better. With a great rattle, vertical fall and a body shape that imitates forage to the "T", the Redeye has been a hit for a couple of years but now combined with the Mustad KVD Elites, fishing and catching just became one in the same.

To buy both of these products click here. Don't forget that Tackle Warehouse has a great back order system so order them even if they are currently out of stock. They will make sure you get them when they arrive.

Zoom New Color...Houdini 3/2/2010 8:21:09 PM

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Swimmin' Super Fluke

Zoom Bait Company never rests and their plastics are some of the best fish catching baits on the planet. They never rest on their laurels and their new products look to be better than ever.

Zoom has just released a new color called Houdini. This is a combination of two popular Zoom colors. The top half of the baits are Watermelon Red with the bottom half being Sand, creating Houdini. This color is available in the Lizard, Finesse Worm, Salty Super Fluke, Shakey Head Worm, Baby Brush Hog, Magnum Shakey Head, Magnum Finesse and the new Swimmin’ Super Fluke.

The great new Swimmin Super Fluke is available now and is a perfect springtime bait for pre-spawn and spawning bass. Check out this new article on the Zoom website with Marty Stone talking about the new Swimmin Super Fluke. Click here to read.

Look for a Wired2Fish Contest soon with the Zoom Swimmin Fluke.

Table Rock FLW Tour Starts Tomorrow 3/2/2010 5:40:36 PM

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The second stop (first was canceled) on the FLW Tour starts tomorrow on Table Rock Lake. It's supposed to be 23 degrees at takeoff. Several anglers reported seeing ice on certain coves and creeks and water temps ranging from high 30s to low 40s. But we also heard reports of some big bass being caught. They aren't catching a lot but the ones they do catch are generally very good quality fish.

If we had to pick one guy to do well here, it would be Arkansas angler Scott Suggs. That's our expert pick for you.

If you're playing FLW Fantasy Fishing and don't have a league, feel free to join ours. The league ID is 16894 and the password is Wired2Fish, so join us and get your team picked before the cutoff tonight at 11:59 EST. Good Luck and Good Fantasy Fishing to all!

To sign up for Fantasy Fishing, click here.

J. Todd, Big Green Egg and more 3/2/2010 5:15:38 PM

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Bassmaster Elite Series pro J. Todd Tucker of Atlanta, Ga., signed again with his primary sponsor Big Green Egg. He'll continue to promote their famous cooker as he tours the country with their wrap on his truck and boat. Additionally BGE signed fellow Elite anglers Bobby Lane, Chris Lane and Bradley Hallman to the Tucker Team EGGlites. They will travel the country and talk fishing and grilling with fans at the events.

Tucker also continued long-time relationships with Yamaha, Lowrance, Optima, Berkley, Trilene, Fenwick, Abu Garcia, Columbia, Costa Del Mar and Southern Woods, a quail hunting preserve in Georgia. Additionally he signed Skeeter Boats and Tru-Tungsten as new sponsors for 2010.

Ranger receives another award... 3/2/2010 11:47:29 AM

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In the March 2010 issue of Boating magazine, the publication’s editorial staff unveils their much-anticipated list of the Top-10 best boats of the year, judging hundreds of models with stringent selection criteria and a grueling elimination process. After putting so many designs through the paces, editors arrived at their final list of 10 with Ranger’s all-new Z521 Comanche highlighting the pack.

Boating extolled the speed and stability of the Z521 – a feature-laden vessel that’s designed to exceed the needs of both competitive anglers and performance enthusiasts. The editors praised the boat’s running surface and Ranger’s trademark smooth, dry ride saying, “…it was like floating on air…there was no chine walking. The hull and power combination was ideal.”

“At wide-open throttle, we crossed wakes at 45 degrees without fear – the Comanche remained on course and on its lines,” wrote Boating’s editorial staff in their glowing review of the 2010 model. “But also kind was the way the Comanche pampered anglers, keeping their focus on the tournament winnings, not on the details of running a boat or managing gear.”

“From the moment we introduced the Z500 series, this is the boat that so many anglers have been asking about,” said Ranger Boats President Randy Hopper. “We’re excited to share the results of so much angler input. On top of so many new interior features, it’s an exceptionally responsive design with a great ride and ultra solid feel on and off plane.”

The interior is highlighted by a completely redesigned console that’s not only taller for more protection, but offers built-in mounting options for today’s popular, large-screened electronics directly above the steering wheel – eliminating the need for gimbal and swivel mounts in most cases. The redesigned consoles also integrate a stylish-yet-functional concave beveling on the outside, allowing the tips of rods stored on the front deck to stay more secure while in use.

The Z521 Comanche measures an efficient-yet-spacious 21 feet, 3 inches in length with a 95-inch beam for the sturdiest fishing platform of any high-performance model in production. Rated for 250 horsepower, the Z521 is available with a wide range of precision-matched outboards to meet the preferences of anglers across the country, while a 52 gallon fuel capacity ensures plenty of range for long runs in search of fish. More details – including videos, reviews and other industry accolades – touting the total performance design of the all-new Z521 can be found by logging on to www.mydreamrig.com or www.rangerboats.com.

Sufix Line Contest Winners.... 3/2/2010 9:36:51 AM

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Thanks to all of the Wired2Fish readers who participated in the Sufix Line Contest. The information that each of you provided was invaluable.

The winners of the Sufix Line Contest are:

John Thomas
Bentonville, AR

Jody White
Blacksburg , VA

Neal Wetmore
Tinley Park, IL

Chad Booker
Princeton, IN

E. Byron Oost
Owensboro, KY

Jason McCoy
Plymouth, WI

Don Fisher
Lititz, PA

Capt Bob Morrissey
Savannah, GA

Your line is on the way. Let us know how you like it.

Peter T's New Wrap... 3/2/2010 8:44:32 AM

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Jacksonville, Florida angler Peter Thliveros has his new wrap with Tru-tungsten. Check it out.

Vicious and PVA promotion a huge success... 3/2/2010 7:11:59 AM

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A partnership between Vicious Fishing and the Paralyzed Veterans of America at the 40th Bassmaster Classic resulted in more than $1,100 donated to the PVA off shirt sales that will assist the PVA’s sports and recreation programs.

Limited edition apparel featuring a stars-and-stripes motif and "Vic," the Vicious Fishing mascot, were snapped up during the Classic’s three-day outdoors expo. More than 58,000 people attended the outdoors expo and the Vicious Fishing booth was packed. Sales were so brisk and interest so high, Vicious officials have extended the chance to purchase the exclusive apparel.

"We sold close to 300 units and raised $1,139 at the expo for the PVA," said Chris Dutton, marketing manager for Vicious Fishing. "The USA apparel was very well received and we have extended the sale of the USA apparel to our online store." Short sleeve t-shirts in three colors are available along with long sleeve shirts and hooded sweatshirts in two colors at www.vicious-fishing.com in its online store.

A special purchase program is available for retailers interested in carrying the exclusive series to further help PVA. The PVA’s sports and recreation programs include fishing tournaments and shooting sports events. PVA has more than 20,000 members and assists veterans with spinal cord injuries or disease with a variety of programs, research and legislative assistance.

"We are very proud to be associated with the PVA and we will continue to work and raise more money for the organization," Dutton said.

Hide Your Terminal Tackle 3/1/2010 9:20:42 PM

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We recently reviewed new swivels made out of a fluorocarbon-like material. The Aquateko Invisa Swivels are pretty cool. Check out our review of them here.

SIU Wins Inaugural Murray State Invitational 3/1/2010 11:23:35 PM

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The Southern Illinois University team of Ben DeBlois and Christopher Piha cranked their way to the top spot and $2,000 at the first Murray State Kentucky Lake Invitational. The team weighed 10 bass during the two-day event for a total weight of 31.89 pounds.

Pro Ray Barga told the collegiate anglers fishing the invitational at the pre-tournament banquet that fortunes can change in hurry on Kentucky Lake under prespawn conditions, and it is possible to catch 20-pound limits from any small stretch of bank this time of year. Such was the case for SIU’s DeBlois and Piha.

“We had only one fish at 11:30 a.m. on day one,” Deblois said. “Then, we found one 200-yard stretch of bank that was absolutely loaded.”

The team quickly filled out their day one limit of 16.36 pounds and knew where they would start day two.The fish had not moved when the team arrived at the spot on the second day.

“We had 10 fish in the first 40 minutes this morning,” Piha said after the final day’s weigh-in.

The team milked the bank for all it was worth and culled a 15-incher with a five-pound kicker fish later in the day to round out their final day’s bag that weighed 15.53 pounds. The winning bank was located inside a creek north of the takeoff at KenLake Marina. It had pea gravel mixed with chunk rock and featured four or five small secondary points. DeBlois and Piha used a crawfish colored Strike King Red-Eye Shad and a Srike King Strike Shad in a rootbeer color to catch their fish. The SIU team is sponsored by Dobyns rods, Strike King Lures, Vicious Fishing and Tackle Warehouse.

Warmer temps during an unusually cold February moved the fish shallow to prepare for the spawn a few weeks away. Air temps in the high 40’s and plenty of sunshine helped the shallow water bite. Most anglers reported catching their fish on crankbaits and jerkbaits.

Another team from SIU, Mark O’Brien and Ryan Wachter took second-place honors with a two day total of 30.83 pounds. Anglers from Tennessee Tech University, Seth Davis and Ryan Maddux claimed third with 26.15 pounds. Rounding out the top five teams were Therron Shaw and Austin Brown from Murray State University. Shaw and Brown weighed the biggest bag of tournament, 20.09 pounds, on day two and finished with a total of 25.71 pounds. The Murray State teams of Steve Miller and Ben Helmerich and Dan Langton and Chad Branham tied for fifth place with 22.74 pounds.

Murray State Bass Anglers wishes to thank all that helped out with making the first Murray State Kentucky Lake Invitational a success. Especially John Parks of Jet-A-Marine, John Newton, his wife and crew of U.S.A Bassin, Terry Little and Ray Barga. We also thank Jim Carter, Murray State University’s vice president of institutional advancement and Murray State University for their support of Murray State Bass Anglers. We look forward hosting the event next year.

Mercer this week.... 3/1/2010 7:57:44 PM

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On Dave Mercer's Facts of Fishing this week ... Kevin VanDam, A New World Record Bass, Des Moines, Iowa & The Olympics. To watch click here.

Best Early Season Bait Contest... 3/1/2010 6:48:05 PM

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What is your favorite early spring bait? Is it a lipless rattling bait like a Strike King Redeye Shad? How about a Rapala Shad Rap or DT6? Is it a Yamamoto Senko, a Zoom Fluke or a Reaction Innovations Skinny Dipper. How about a McStick Jerkbait?

With the water temps in the mid 40's and clear to a bit stained what is your favorite bait? What is your favorite color?

Send us your choice and how you fish it to contest@wired2fish.com before March 17 at noon for a chance to win. We have three great early season prizes for three lucky winners.

Second Round of PAA Entries Begins... 3/1/2010 6:39:47 PM

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Registration opened Monday for the “Priority Entry II” anglers on last season’s Professional Anglers Association Tour Points list for the 2010 PAA Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series that begins in July.

“Priority Entry II” is March 1-5 for all anglers on the 2009 Carrot Stix PAA Tournament Series Point Standings who plan to sign up for all four PAA Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series events this season.

This is the second of four registration periods. Tournament entry fees are $2,500 per event with a $750 deposit per event.

Tournaments this season will include PAA Member Observers who will have chances to win prizes based on their pro’s performance, as well as a chance to compete in an all new Pro-Am format on Saturday. Details of both programs will be announced soon.

2010 PAA Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series Schedule:

July 8-10: Lake Cherokee, Morristown, Tenn.
Aug. 12-14:* Lake Norman, Charlotte, N.C.
Sept. 9-11: Lake Tawakoni, Garland, Texas
Oct. 14-16: Table Rock Lake, Branson, Mo.

Tournament format:
• 30 day off-limits before first practice day (no info and not on water)
• 3-day official practice (Sunday- Tuesday)*
• 1 off day (Wednesday) for registration and other activities*
• 3-day tournament (Thursday- Saturday)
• Full field the first two days
• Top 30 will fish the final day and weigh in at Bass Pro Shops store
• Pro only – must be a TOUR level member of PAA to fish any tournament in 2010 – anglers can become a TOUR level member of PAA upon registering for the Series events
• Member Observers all three days

*To accommodate anglers competing in the Forrest Wood Cup, the official practice period for Lake Norman will begin Monday (8/9/10) instead of Sunday, with no off day prior to competition.

Chill Media and Mercer for partnership... 3/1/2010 4:09:29 PM

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CHILL Media Inc. has landed a big one! The Oakville-based publisher is pleased to announce a new partnership with Canada’s favorite fishing funny man, Dave Mercer.

The popular TV host brings his legendary expertise and signature humor to the Chill magazine lineup with his Facts of Fishing column now featured regularly and a new blog at Chillonline.ca. In addition, CHILL and Mercer will co-sponsor a variety of contests and cross-promotions encompassing print, web and television.

“This partnership is a natural fit,” said Scott Stevenson, CHILL’s publisher and editorial director. “Mercer’s brand personality matches the CHILL mentality perfectly; we go together like a cold beer after a great day on the lake. Dave combines expert knowledge about one of Canada’s favorite pastimes with a John Candy-like sense of humor, and we’re delighted to welcome him to the CHILL family.”

“I’m honored and excited to partner with such a strong and ground-breaking brand as CHILL, not only as a business, but as a person," Mercer said. "I have been a loyal reader of CHILL for years. Let’s face it – CHILL is all about Canadians and our passions. My passion is fishing, and I can’t wait to share it on the pages of Chill. And in the great words of the CHILLosopher, what better way for a Canadian to chill than fishing."

Stone joins Ardent and CTC Supply... 3/1/2010 3:17:14 PM

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North Carolina Elite Series pro Marty Stone has had a busy off season and just announced he has signed two more sponorship agreements. One with Ardent Reels, where he will be using the Ardent XS 1000 flagship baitcast reel and CTC Supply, a local heating and cooling company to Stone in North Carolina.

CTC Supply (Cumberland Trading Company) has been proudly serving the residential and commercial heating and air conditioning needs of southern North Carolina for 10 years.

“Hunting and fishing are a way of life here in North Carolina,” said Jimmy Cass, the General Manager of CTC Supply. “A majority of our customers are outdoors people so it’s a perfect fit to have Fayetteville’s own Marty Stone, a well-known name on the national fishing tours, to represent us. Having him promote CTC Supply will provide some great regional recognition and we look forward to some of the activities we have planned with Marty this year.”

Stone, a life-long resident of North Carolina, is a 15-year BASS pro and two-time winner on the BASS Elite Series.

As part of the sponsorship, Stone will do two personal appearance days at the CTC Supply headquarters in Fayetteville and will also host the winner of CTC’s “Day on the lake with Marty Stone” contest.

Ardent Reels, headquartered in Macon, Missouri is the manufacturer of premier quality reels, both baitcasting and spinning, that are all made in the US.

“We are happy to have Marty using our products on tour,” said Ryan Hohl, Marketing Coordinator for Ardent. “Marty is a great fit for our brand and is one of the hardest working promoters in the business.”

Stone is a 15-year BASS pro and two-time winner on the BASS Elite Series.

“I’m privileged to be with a reel company that does all of its manufacturing right here in America,” Stone said. “Ardent is a young company with a bright future in the fishing business and I’m glad I’m getting in on the ground floor to be a part of its growth.”

Stone is one of the hardest promoters on tour and has recently signed Bandit Lures, TTI Blakemore and Buckeye Lures, as well.

To learn more click here.

It's All Good According to Scroggins 3/1/2010 2:08:53 PM

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The psychology surrounding professional anglers would provide great doctoral research material at institutions like Stanford or Yale known for diving deep into the human mind.

They could start with 7-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier Terry “Big Show” Scroggins. But they might be disappointed. Scroggins is anything but a head case. He’s much the opposite. Scroggins looks for life’s simpler, brighter side and is famous among friends for his favorite verbal expression – “It’s All Good.”

“This life we live is tough. It’s full of mental, physical and financial challenges – so saying ‘It’s All Good’ is my way of always lookin’ up,” said the 41-year-old Floridian.

For example, when Scroggins showed up in Birmingham to practice for the Bassmaster Classic, three inches of snow and record low lake temperatures greeted his sun tanned hands. “Oh yea, that would have been easy to get down about, but I saw it as a positive. To me, that took the home field advantage away from the eight or so guys that lived near Lay Lake,” Scroggins said.

“Plus, if you’re gonna be dumb, and make a living fishing in snow, you gotta be tough -- and part of being tough means having the right clothing. I came prepared with everything from Polartec clothing to a motorcycle helmet, so I knew I was as ready as the rest of them,” Scroggins said.

Next up in this crazy life, Scroggins will spend four full days planted alone in the front seat of his Toyota Tundra driving 2,800 miles from Florida to doubleheader Elite Series tournaments in California. “What’s good about that is I’ll cruise hands free from the cell phone using my Tundra’s Bluetooth. It’s a long, lonely trip across the Mojave Desert, but if you’re getting business done while you drive, 'It’s All Good.'”

Clemons, Knight hired by PAA... 3/1/2010 1:45:04 PM

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The Professional Anglers Association has filled two key positions with the hiring of Alan Clemons of Alabama as Communications Director and Randy Knight of Texas as Tournament Director.

PAA President John Crews said the additions will more easily enable the PAA to continue moving forward toward the 2010 PAA Bass Pro Shops Tournament Series that begins in July.

“We are very happy to bring on two individuals with such great experience,” said PAA President John Crews. “Alan is the perfect person to help the PAA in an area where we need to improve. Randy brings experience and a proven reputation to the rules and enforcement side of our events. I know Alan and Randy are going to mesh well in our organization and help the PAA be more effective in promoting our anglers, tournaments and the fishing industry."

Clemons is a lifelong resident of Alabama with 25 years in the newspaper and freelance writing industry. His experience includes serving as the outdoors editor with The Huntsville Times for almost 15 years and a sports writer with the Huntsville News. His work has been honored numerous times and published in Outdoor Life, Bassmaster, Bass Times, Cabela’s Outfitter Journal, ESPN Outdoors, Wired2Fish.com, Lone Star Outdoor News, Thicket and Birmingham Magazine.

“I’m excited to be joining the PAA as it builds on last year’s success,” Clemons said. “Professional anglers have many compelling stories on and off the water, and communication is vital to let our members, sponsor partners, industry representatives and fans know about them and the PAA.

“We are evaluating our communications platforms to assist PAA members and sponsor partners in getting their messages to the public. I know a lot of PAA members from working with them at tournaments or other events, and look forward to continuing those relationships while building new ones.”

Knight is a native Texan and has directed or co-produced more than 300 bass tournaments, primarily in Texas, in the last two decades. Among those were the Skeeter Boats Owner’s Tournaments, Skeeter Pro-Bass Challenge, Country Bass Association, Angler’s Choice couples and team divisions and the Somerville Lions Club event, now in its 33rd year.

Knight has worked with major sponsors for tournaments including Skeeter Boats, Mercury Outboards, Stanley Jigs, Pure Fishing-Berkley and All-Star Rods. He has fished numerous individual and team tournaments since the mid-1980s, and qualified for the Red Man Regional and Angler’s Choice Pro-Am championships.

“It’s been a great experience over the years,” Knight said of directing tournaments. “What I like most about it is you get to meet so many people from different walks of life and they’re all coming together for a common passion. Some guys have taken off their white shirts and ties or put down their hammers for the day to get together for a few hours.

“This is such a great opportunity with the PAA and I’m looking forward to it. My passion for bass fishing is as great as these pros. I just can’t sometimes find the fish or catch them as well as they can, but that’s why we all keep trying.”

About the PAA: The Professional Anglers Association is a non-profit organization that gives professional anglers a unified voice in order to aid in the growth of the sport of professional bass fishing. The PAA also aims to administer educational programs to the average angler, to increase enjoyment of the sport, and to embrace sound conservation practices to further the future of the sport. For more information, visit FishPAA.com.

Berkley Trailer back on the road... 3/1/2010 11:12:05 AM

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The Berkley Experience Trailer will be at the Bass Pro Shops in Concord, N.C., for the next stop in 2010. The 60-foot trailer of fun and activities brings fishing education to all skill levels of anglers. The scheduled stop for the Berkley Experience Trailer is March 5th and is set to end March 7th.

The trailer has new videos and interactive demonstrations on line and bait. The Berkley Experience Team will have seminars scheduled throughout the day to cover the four main components of fishing:

Line Selection
Rigging Techniques for Bait
Reel Maintenance
Rod Selection

Auburn Wins College Fishing Event 3/1/2010 10:14:27 AM

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The Auburn University team of Shaye Baker and Kenneth (Jordan) Lee won the National Guard FLW College Fishing Southeast Division event on Lake Okeechobee Saturday with six bass weighing 11 pounds, 7 ounces. The victory earned the team $10,000 to be split evenly between the university and the university’s bass-fishing club. The win also helped them advance to the Southeast Division Regional Championship where they could ultimately win a Ranger 177TR with a 90-horsepower engine wrapped in school colors for their school’s club and $25,000 for the school they represent.

“I am glad we got them today,” Baker said. “I like Florida, but the fishing was though today. I like fishing a little closer to home.

“Jordan and I weren’t able to do any pre-fishing for this tournament, so we relied heavily on what me and my partner learned at last year’s tournament. We fished the same area on the southwest corner of the lake, near Turner’s Cove, where we pulled up on some grass and found fish biting.

“We actually caught our limit by 9:30 a.m. which really helped us a lot. We then concentrated on finding some bigger fish that we knew were out there. Unfortunately this cold front shut the fish down, and we couldn’t really find that big one. We caught most of our fish with Reaction Innovation Skinny Dippers, the ones we missed using Skinny Dippers we got on Yamamoto Senkos.”

“I was really surprised we won,” Lee said. “With our low weight, I didn’t think we would even make the top five. The cold front that came through really made the bite tough. I knew my partner was a good fisherman, so we just hoped for the best.”

Payback is sweet for Baker as last November he and his 2009 partner finished second behind the University of Florida team of Jake Gipson and Matthew Wercinski at the Southeast Division Regional Championship. Baker and last year’s partner, Dennis Parker, along with the University of Florida and 23 other team’s from across the country will participate in the 2009 National Championship event which is being held April 10-12 at Ft. Loudoun and hosted by the University of Tennessee.

Rounding out the top five teams today were Southern Polytechnic State University – Dustin Holland and Zachary Dixon (three bass 10-10, $5,000); University of Central Florida – Leonard Gordon and Miles Burghoff (six bass, 9-14, $4,000); Tennessee Tech – Cody Gass and Adam Goodwin (six bass, 8-15, $3,000); University of South Carolina, Upstate – David Scruggs and Michael Smith (six bass, 8-12, $2,000).

Brown wins FLW AFS on Okeechobee 3/1/2010 10:06:07 AM

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Marty Brown of Dalton, Ga., caught a five-bass limit weighing 10 pounds, 14 ounces Saturday to win the FLW American Fishing Series Southeast tournament on Lake Okeechobee with a three-day total of 15 bass weighing 52 pounds, 1 ounce. For his victory, Brown earned $24,680.

“I was lucky enough to find a transition area where the fish were moving in and out,” Brown said. “I was here during the FLW Eastern Series event a few weeks ago, and I knew there was a spawn then. With the full moon coming again, I knew another spawn was coming. I just basically fished the same location all week long, which was the east wall area, knowing that I would have to work it [repeatedly] until I caught my fish. It was loaded. The only challenge was being able to come up with the kickers which were few and far between due to the cold front.

“I had my limit today by about 10 a.m. and was able to cull a few times, but I never really did find that one big kicker. I caught all my fish flipping a Black Zoom 6-inch Lizard on a Castaway flipping stick.

Rounding out the top-10 pros were:

2nd: Jeff McMillan, Belle Glade, Fla., 15 bass, 46-6, $8,391
3rd: Don Demott, Boca Raton, Fla., 15 bass, 46-5, $5,923
4th: Jeff Fitts, Keystone Heights, Fla., 15 bass, 45-14, $4,936
5th: Dwayne Horton, Knoxville, Tenn., 15 bass, 45-8, $4,442
6th: Koby Kreiger, Okeechobee, Fla., 15 bass, 44-11, $3,949
7th: Kevin Long, Clewiston, Fla., 15 bass, 42-15, $3,455
8th: Roger Gonzalez, Hialeah Gardens, Fla., 11 bass, 40-7, $2,962
9th: Aymon Wilcox, Lauderdale Lakes, Fla., 15 bass, 38-13, $2,468
10th: Ronnie Watts, Florence, S.C., 13 bass, 36-15, $1,974

Jesse Steadham of Florence, Miss., won the Co-angler Division and $9,882 cash, with a three-day total of 15-bass weighing 33 pounds, 4 ounces.

“I am still shaking all over,” said Steadham who is fishing with FLW for his second year. “I caught all my fish using Reaction Innovation Skinny Dippers in grass fields about 4 to 5 feet deep. The bite was not as good today, and the fish were definitely smaller. I thought I was going to finish in third place.

“Fishing was definitely a lot more difficult today. I had a 5-pounder break my line early in the day, and I didn’t get my kicker until the last 20 minutes of the tournament. That 4 1/2-pound fish was the one that definitely won it for me.”

Steadham caught five bass weighing 14-12 Thursday while fishing with pro Dale Walker of Miami, Fla., to open the tournament in sixth place. On Friday he added five more bass weighing 9 pounds to make the top-10 cut in fifth place while fishing with pro Rick Marsh of High Point, N.C. Finally, on Saturday, he sealed the win with five bass weighing 9-8 while fishing with Aymon Wilcox of Lauderdale Lakes, Fla.

Rounding out the top five co-anglers were:

2nd: Kevin Thomas, Miramar, Fla., 15 bass, 32-15, $3,953
3rd: Bucky Helms, Dallas, N.C., 11 bass, 30-11, $1,976
4th: Brent Houlihan, Naples, Fla., 15 bass, 30-11, $1,729
5th: Robert Wood, Jupiter, Fla., 11 bass, 30-4, $1,482
6th: Danny Shelton, Davie, Fla., 13 bass, 30-2, $1,235
7th: Mitch Reynolds, Petal, Miss., 9 bass, 27-14, $988
8th: Darren Jeter, Marshall, N.C., 12 bass, 27-3, $889
9th: Ron Buck, Port St. Lucie, Fla., 14 bass, 25-14, $791
10th: George Kapiton, Inverness, Fla., 15 bass, 25-12, $692

Baitsmith signs Chris Lane... 3/1/2010 9:07:34 AM

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Baitsmith, LLC announced today that it has signed Bassmaster Elite Series angler Chris Lane of Guntersville, AL to a long-term endorsement contract to promote its full line of swim baits.

“Swim baits will play a role in every Elite Series event in 2010. Every single one! Now that I’m with Baitsmith I feel prepared to win when the swim bait bite is on. Since moving to Lake Guntersville swim baits have become a passion of mine. I will tell you right now these baits are going to be on fire this spring,” said Chris Lane. “The boys in Idaho had better be prepared to work some long hours because I have not showed these lures to anyone that did not get absolutely fired up!”

“Our baits are 100% hand made in the U.S.A. and have a loyal following out here in the West because they catch quality fish. We wanted anglers in the rest of the world to know about us so we sat down and performed in-depth market research. We were drawn to Chris Lane because he fishes to win, has a reputation of working hard and he absolutely fell in love with the baits,” said Eric Smith of Baitsmith, LLC.

Based in Hayden, ID, Baitsmith LLC hand makes swim baits ranging from 5” shad and bluegill to a 6” hitch and 9.5” magnum trout in amazingly life-like colors. Baits are available at selected retail outlets or online at www.baitsmith.com. Dealer and distributor inquiries are welcome and may be directed to info@baitsmith.com.

Fishing in his 8th year as a full-time professional angler, Chris Lane recently relocated to Guntersville, AL from Winter Haven, FL. Chris finished the 2009 season with an FLW American Fishing Series win on Lake Guntersville and opened the 2010 season with a victory in the Bassmaster Southern Open on Lake Okeechobee. More information about Chris Lane is available at www.ChrisLaneFishing.com.