Johnson Outdoors, Minn Kota Trolling Motors, has launched a new website click here that gives consumers and owners everything they need to know about Minn Kota. The latest in products, service, advantages, warranty and pro staff info and more all right there. Easy to navigate via dropdown this new site will help those that already own a Minn Kota and those thinking about joining the Minn Kota Family.
Be sure to take a look at the new site and feel free to provide Minn Kota with your feedback either about the site or their stellar line-up of the trolling motors and chargers.
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Jimmy McMillan maintained his lead at Big O today with a total weight of 57-06 pounds. Closing ground today was first day leader Scott Lundsford who is in second with 56-01 pounds, 1.05 pounds behind. Okeechobee regular Scott Martin made a big move today with 21-10 to finish up day 3 in third place with 53-04 pounds.
Tom Mann Jr had big bag of today with 5 bass at 23-07 pounds. He is currently in 6th place.
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Check out this neat video on the new Minn Kota Fortrex Trolling Motor, the Next Generation of Trolling Motor has arrived. Click here to view. |
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Del Rio, Texas transplant Byron Velvick talks about working for ESPN, working with Tru-Tungsten and qualifying for the upcoming Bassmaster Classic. To listen click here.
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As anyone who was young or young at heart during the 1980s knows, there’s something thrilling and culturally significant about a professional wrestling match. Whether you think it was real or fake, staged or brutally honest, you have to admit that the big events could rile up even a comatose patient in a hospital bed.
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John Kremer of Sanford Florida took the day one lead at the BASS Open lidlifter today at Tavares Florida with 5 bass of 29-13. Elite Series Rookie Greg Vinson is in second with 25-9. Alabama's Timmy Horton is in third with 5 bass weighing 23 pounds even. For a total rundown of today's action click here.
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FLW writer/photographer Rob Newell has a great article on a unique characteristic of the Big O .....replenishment during the spawn. This factor could be a big player at the FLW Series event there this weekend. To read that story click here.
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 FLW photo
Pro Jimmy McMillan of Belle Glade, Fla., caught a five-bass limit weighing 23 pounds, 3 ounces Thursday to capture the lead in the Walmart FLW Series® BP Eastern Division tournament on Lake Okeechobee with a two-day catch of 10 bass weighing 42-13.
“I didn’t get as many bites today,” said McMillan, who was the 2008 Walmart FLW Series BP Eastern Division Land O’ Lakes Angler of the Year. “The bites seemed to be better bites, however. I also caught some nice keepers sight-fishing and I don’t normally do that.”
McMillan said that he caught 10-15 keepers today and didn’t have a limit until 11:30 a.m.
“I plan on going back to my same spots tomorrow but I think it will be a lot tougher," McMillan said. “There are a lot of boats around me so I will have to move down the right stretch at the right time.
“The biggest key is being in the right area at the right time.”
McMillan now holds a 4 -pound, 9-ounce lead over second place pro Scott Lunsford of Calhoun, Ga., who managed to haul in a total of 10 bass weighing 39-04 during the first two days of competition.
“It was really tough today,” Lunsford said. “I had so many opportunities but I lost a lot of key fish today and you can’t make mistakes and win these tournaments. I have had my share of mistakes the past few days.”
Rounding out the top five pros are Ray Scheide of Dover, Ark. (10 bass, 38-06); Carmen Patti of Davie, Fla. (10 bass, 35-02) and Tom Monsoor of La Crosse, Wis. (10 bass, 34-12).
Kelly Jordon of Mineola, Texas, earned the day’s $500 Big Bass award in the Pro Division thanks to a 6-pound, 8-ounce bass.
Overall there were 590 bass weighing 1,496 pounds caught by 145 pros Thursday. The catch included 92 five-bass limits.
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Secret Weapon Lures, Inc. announced today the company has signed an endorsement deal with professional bass angler Randy Howell. Howell will help the company build upon its reputation as an innovator of premium, high performance fishing tackle for fresh and saltwater sportfishing.Howell, of Springville, Alabama, ranked 8th in the Bassmaster Elite Series 2008 standings, will be a top contender again in 2009. Look for Howell at the Bassmaster Classic on the Red River near Shreveport, Louisiana in February 2009.
“Randy Howell is an extremely gifted angler who shares our priorities of God, family and fishing. He has the necessary attitude, experience, and skill to win the Classic, and we believe that Secret Weapon’s Recoil Rig™ can help him attain that goal,” said Joe Haubenreich, president of Secret Weapon Lures, Inc.
“The Recoil Rig is the first thing to come along in quite some time that improves the way we can make fish bite,” said Howell. “It’s deadly on bedding fish!”
“I used to say the Recoil Rig is like putting a drop shot on steroids, but it’s more than that. It’s even more effective fished around docks, lay-downs, and cover,” said Howell. “One rod on the deck of my Triton is dedicated to the Recoil Rig at all times.”
“I use electronics to find heavy fish traffic areas – lanes where I can see fish funneling through. Usually we swim or hop our lures through there and hope fish are passing by just then, too. After casting a few times most anglers move on, leaving catchable fish behind. I can position a lure on a Recoil Rig right in their path and work it in place until the fish comes along.”
“It’s making me change the way I fish… but there are a lot of places on the Elite tour this year where fish are used to seeing conventional presentations. I can’t wait to put soft plastics on a Recoil Rig in front of them; it will make them bite.”
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Laserlures are WIRED.....2Fish!!
Shreveport, LA. based Laserlure has joined Wired2Fish as an advertiser/sponsor. Laserlure made big news in recent days with the signning of Boyd Duckett and Mike Iaconelli as title anglers for their company for the 2009 Elite Series.
Laserlure will be bringing that patented "red" laser light, former Classic Champs and quality fishing lures to the Red River for this years Bassmaster Classic.
Mike Lopez of Laserlure said "Wired2Fish is a cutting edge, innovative website that worked perfectly with the technology we are presenting with the Laserlure. We look for the best way to market our innovation and technology and see Wired2Fish as the place to do just that."
"We are thrilled to have Laserlure with us" said Wired2Fish President Terry Brown. "They have a killer product, with a killer pro-staff and the wherewithal to take this new technology to the next level. We are excited to be in a position to help them get there."
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Yelas and Gagliardi added to team...
FLW Outdoors announced a star-studded professional angling team for Chevrolet for the 2009 Walmart FLW Tour. Team Chevy features veterans Luke Clausen, Dion Hibdon, Larry Nixon and Kim Stricker. Two new additions feature Anthony Gagliardi and two-time Land O’Lakes Angler of the Year Jay Yelas
Longtime Team Chevy angler Jimmy Houston will be part of Team Chevy exclusively fishing the Walmart FLW Series BP Eastern Division.
“It is an honor to once again be back with Chevrolet,” said Yelas, who was part of the Chevy Pro Staff in 2002 and 2003. “Team Chevy is one of the premier teams in FLW Outdoors, the top fishing circuit in the country.”
“I am excited to join Team Chevy as they are one of the best teams and have been a part of the FLW Outdoors family for a long time,” said Gagliardi. “Chevrolet is an American brand that embodies American values, as does FLW Outdoors, and I am proud to represent them.”
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We just got some prototypes in of the new Rojas Fighting Frog from Big Bite Baits and are they "sweet". Both sizes, 3/12 and 4 1/2 look incredible, can be fished by themselves, used as a jig trailer and work well as a spinnerbait trailer as well for cold water applications to slow the bait......way down. Scott Montgomery, VP at Big Bite and Dean tested it that way and were amazed with the action.
The Big Bite Baits Dean Rojas Fighting Frog will come in both straight plastic and Biobait formulas.
Note: Big Bite Bait Biobait is biodegradable but also lasts longer than conventional plastic.
Don't forget they will be available beginning at the Bassmaster Classic and at retailers after that!
You still have time to design and name the 14th color of the new bait by entering the Big Bite Baits Contest running now on Wired.
To learn more about other Big Bite Products click here.
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Tackle Warehouse has a great video with Wired and Elite Series pro Jared Lintner on choosing the right line for each technique. To watch click here. |
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Georgia's Scott Lunsford leads the FLW Series at Lake Okeechobee with 25 pounds 15 ounces anchored with a giant 10-3. Below is a picture of that fish. The weather is warming, Big O is full, the grass is back, and water clarity is good so Day Two should even be better. Can you say "springtime"?
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The middle part of the country was hit with a devastating icestorm that knocked out communications with FLW Headquarters in Benton Kentucky today. Calhoun Ga.'s Scott Lunsford added a storm of his own at Lake Okeechobee today in the first day of the FLW Eastern Series with a 2 pound lead. His 5 fish limit weighed 25-15.
In second is David Dudley of Lynchburg, VA, still hot after last years FLW Tour AOY crown, with 23-15.
In third is Mr. Consistency Dave Lefebre of Union City PA. with 22-00 lbs.
Calm 80 degree days have warmed the lake temps to 63-68 degrees and the big girls are on the move. This could be a real slugfest.
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 Elite Series Angler Skeet Reese is launching a new interactive feature on his website www.skeetreeseinc.com- Q and A with the man himself!
“I am open to all sorts of questions, and from the many that have come into the site in the few days since we activated the Q and A email address, people will have a multitude of topics to discuss,” said Reese. “I will answer as many questions as I can, and do it in the most direct and clear way possible. This is one way I can give a little bit more to our industry and the fans.”
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Pure Fishing Goes to College for the Second Year
Pure Fishing, parent company of Berkley, Abu Garcia and All Star rods is proud to partner with the BoatUS National Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship.
This will mark the second consecutive year that Berkley has partnered with the Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship.
"The students that fished the series last year were tremendous," said Sr. Marketing Manager Andrew Marks. "Their professionalism and dedication to the sport along with their commitment to academics will ensure the future of fishing continues to flourish."
The scientists behind Berkley line and bait use advanced technologies, which provide the best products to help anglers "Catch More Fish". Started in 1937 by Berkley Bedell, the company is part of the largest fishing tackle company in the world. The portfolio of products include the best brands that anglers use around the world including TrileneTM, FireLineTM, Big GameTM, PowerBaitTM, Gulp! TM, Gulp! Alive! TM and Lightning RodsTM.
Abu Garcia, founded in Svangsta Sweden in 1921, still uses Swedish engineering to develop the most popular reels today. The Abu Garcia C3 is the best-selling bait cast reel in the market. This commitment to excellence and durability has been instilled in the revolutionary low profile Revo series. The expansion of the original Revo series with the additions of the Inshore, Premier, Winch, Toro and Skeet Reese model defines the tradition of bringing the best reels to anglers all over the world.
All Star takes pride in the inherent quality put into every rod produced. Every stage of rod making is done by hand, from wrapping the graphite around mandrels that have been designed to give the exact actions anglers need, to sanding and finishing. Simply put, All Star rods are built to last.
Pure Fishing is offering numerous cash and product incentives for tournament wins and catching big bass. Berkley Conservation Institutes will present the award for the Collegiate Angler of the Year that combines angling skills and academics to reward students for their efforts to improve the industry and conservation.
For More Information go to www.CollegiateBassChampionship.com
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Falcon Lake guide Rick Cathey of FishTexas Guide Service videos catching 5 bass over 50 lbs at Falcon. To take a look click here. |
BASS announced today the full field for the 2009 Bassmaster Elite Series, the most visible and prestigious tournament trail in fishing. The field of 101 of the world’s top anglers will visit 8 fisheries during the Elite Series regular season and will compete to advance to the Bassmaster Elite Series postseason.
The star-studded field accounts for 15 Bassmaster Classic titles, 18 Toyota Tundra Bassmaster Angler of the Year trophies and more than 200 BASS victories. The Elite circuit will kick off in less than two months with the March 12-15 Battle on the Border on Texas’ Lake Amistad in Del Rio.
“The Elite Series provides anglers with the ultimate brand-building opportunity in professional fishing,” said Tom Ricks, vice president and general manager, BASS.
Those included are listed below:
2009 Bassmaster Elite Series Anglers
- Casey Ashley Donalds, S.C.
- Todd Auten Lake Wylie, S.C.
- Tommy Biffle Wagoner, Okla.
- Jon Bondy Windsor, Ontario
- Denny Brauer Camdenton, Mo.
- Brent Broderick Oregonia, Ohio
- Stephen Browning Hot Springs, Ark.
- Mark Burgess Norton, Mass.
- Terry Butcher Talala, Okla.
- Scott Campbell Springfield, Mo.
- Brent Chapman Lake Quivira, Kan.
- Brian Clark Haltom City, Texas
- Rick Clunn Ava, Mo.
- Jeff Connella Bentley, La.
- Ken Cook Meers, Okla.
- John Crews Salem, Va.
- Steve Daniel Clewiston, Fla.
- Mark Davis Mount Ida, Ark.
- Boyd Duckett Demopolis, Ala.
- Guy Eaker Cherryville, N.C.
- Paul Elias Laurel, Miss.
- Edwin Evers Talala, Okla.
- Todd Faircloth Jasper, Texas
- Jami Fralick Martin, S.D.
- Vince Fulks Purcell, Okla.
- Grant Goldbeck Gaithersburg, Md.
- Pat Golden High Point, N.C.
- Chad Griffin Cresson, Texas
- Shaw Grigsby Gainesville, Fla.
- Luke Gritter Kalamazoo, Mich.
- Wade Grooms Bonneau, S.C.
- Greg Hackney Gonzales, La.
- Bradley Hallman Norman, Okla.
- Charlie Hartley Grove City, Ohio
- Matt Herren Trussville, Ala.
- Kenyon Hill Norman, Okla.
- Davy Hite Ninety Six, S.C.
- Timmy Horton Muscle Shoals, Ala.
- Randy Howell Springville, Ala.
- Michael Iaconelli Runnemede, N.J.
- Alton Jones Waco, Texas
- Kelly Jordon Mineola, Texas
- Steve Kennedy Auburn, Ala.
- Kotaro Kiriyama Moody, Ala.
- Gary Klein Weatherford, Texas
- Jeff Kriet Ardmore, Okla.
- Bobby Lane Lakeland, Florida
- Chris Lane Winter Haven, Florida
- Russ Lane Prattville, Alabama
- Kevin Langill Terrell, N.C.
- Jared Lintner Arroyo Grande, Calif.
- Bill Lowen Cincinnati, Ohio
- Elton Luce Jr. Brookeland, Texas
- Aaron Martens Leeds, Ala.
- Billy McCaghren Mayflower, Ark.
- Mike McClelland Bella Vista, Ark.
- Mark Menendez Paducah, Ky.
- Yusuke Miyazaki Forney, Texas
- Jimmy Mize Ben Lomond, Ark.
- Ish Monroe Hughson, Calif.
- Rick Morris Virginia Beach, Va.
- Jim Murray Arabi, Ga.
- John Murray Phoenix, Ariz.
- Britt Myers Lake Wylie, N.C.
- James Niggemeyer Van, Texas
- Takahiro Omori Emory, Texas
- Cliff Pace Petal, Miss.
- Pete Ponds Madison, Miss.
- Jason Quinn York, S.C.
- Matt Reed Madisonville, Texas
- Clark Reehm Russellville, Ark.
- Skeet Reese Auburn, Calif.
- Derek Remitz Grant, Ala.
- Jeff Reynolds Idabel, Okla.
- Marty Robinson Landrum, S.C.
- Dean Rojas Lake Havasu, Ariz.
- Scott Rook Little Rock, Ark.
- Fred Roumbanis Bixby, Okla.
- Zell Rowland Montgomery, Texas
- Bernie Schultz Gainesville, Fla.
- Terry Scroggins San Mateo, Fla.
- Morizo Shimizu Suita Osaka, Japan
- Kevin Short Mayflower, Ark.
- Dave Smith Del City, Okla.
- Brian Snowden Reeds Spring, Mo.
- Matthew Sphar Pavilion, N.Y.
- Jeremy Starks Charleston, W.Va.
- Marty Stone Fayetteville, N.C.
- Gerald Swindle Warrior, Ala.
- Peter Thliveros St. Augustine, Fla.
- J. Todd Tucker Moultrie, Ga.
- Mark Tucker Saint Louis, Mo.
- Mark Tyler Vian, Ariz.
- Kevin VanDam Kalamazoo, Mich.
- Byron Velvick Del Rio, Texas
- Greg Vinson Wetumpka, Ala.
- Dustin Wilks Rocky Mount, N.C.
- Jason Williamson Aiken, S.C.
- Kevin Wirth Crestwood, Ky.
- Dave Wolak Wake Forest, NC
- Mike Wurm Hot Springs, Ark.
For more information, contact BASS Communications at (407) 566-2208 or visit Bassmaster.com
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Goodwill Industries has joined FLW Outdoors as a team sponsor for 2009. Team members include Chad Grigsby and Wesley Strader. To learn more click here.
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One for the books for 2009
Alabama's Tommy Jacques caught a 12 pounder on the new Tru-Tungsten 7" Swimbait on Monday. Take a look at this beauty.
 
"I was using Power Pro 50lbs braid, Daiwa Steez 8ft rod, Steez reel and toping it all off with a Tru-Tungsten Tru-Life 7 inch Swim bait in the Blue Gill Pattern said Jacques.
Check out the boat in the photo....proof positive that big bass can be caught out of little boats, although it looks like a little clean-up should be in the works.
Here is another shot of this beauty.....Congrats Tommy!!!
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FLW OUTDOORS HIGHLY ACCLAIMED TELEVISION SHOW TO PREMIERE ON VERSUS
Program will air Sundays from 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. ET
MINNEAPOLIS (Jan. 28, 2009) — FLW Outdoors, the largest tournament fishing organization in the world and the home of FLW Fantasy Fishing, today announced that its programming will premiere on VERSUS, the network which brings anglers the best fishing programming on television featuring the most-trusted authorities on the water. Beginning in April, the Emmy-nominated “FLW Outdoors” program will air approximately 30 original shows, produced in high definition (HD) television, Sundays from 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. ET.
In 2009, the Forrest Wood Cup will receive a pair of one-hour shows. Each of the six Walmart FLW Tour qualifiers, eight Walmart FLW Series and five Walmart FLW Walleye Tour events will each be given a one-hour show. National Guard FLW College Fishing, a new addition to the 2009 season, will also receive television exposure as the five Regional Championships will be covered with one-hour shows. Lastly, the Walmart BFL All-American, Stren Series Championship and TBF National Championship will be aired on VERSUS. FLWOutdoors.com provides an online guide listing upcoming episodes on “FLW Outdoors.” Each episode of “FLW Outdoors” will also be available on demand in its entirety on FLWOutdoors.com.
“Our multi-year partnership with FSN was instrumental in putting competitive fishing in the forefront,” said Irwin L. Jacobs, Chairman of FLW Outdoors. “That being said, we feel there is room for continued growth, and our new partnership will place our television programming on the fastest-growing network in the nation. Quite simply, VERSUS is home to the best outdoor programming in the world, which makes it a perfect fit for FLW Outdoors.”
“VERSUS is very excited to be the new home of FLW Outdoors,” said Jeff Macaluso, Director of Field Sports and New Media Programming and Production for VERSUS. “These high-quality shows represent the best fishing tournaments with the most talented anglers from all around the country and are the perfect blend of outdoors and competition, which is exactly what we promise to deliver to all our viewers.”
“FLW Outdoors,” hosted by Jason Harper, is also broadcast internationally through agreements with WFN (World Fishing Network) and Matchroom Sport to more than 429 million households in such countries as Canada, Germany, China, South Africa, Australia, Malaysia, Russia, Hungary and the United Kingdom, making it the most widely distributed weekly outdoor-sports television show in the world.
FLWOutdoors.com
ABOUT VERSUS
VERSUS celebrates real competition across all platforms (VERSUS.com, VERSUS on Demand and VERSUS HD). Now in more than 74 million homes, the network is the national cable home of the National Hockey League (NHL), the Stanley Cup Playoffs and the IndyCar® Series as well as best-in-class events such as The Tour de France, Davis Cup Tennis, the Professional Bull Riders (PBR), World Extreme Cagefighting (WEC) and Professional Boxing. The network also offers collegiate sports featuring nationally-ranked teams from top conferences such as the Pac-10, Big 12, Mountain West and Ivy League. VERSUS features the best field sports programming on television and is a destination for sports fans, athletes and sportsmen to find exclusive, competitive events and original programs, such as TapouT, Sports Soup and The Contender, that audiences can't find elsewhere. VERSUS, a wholly owned company of Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ: CMCSA, CMCSK), is distributed via cable systems and satellite operators throughout the United States.
ABOUT FLW OUTDOORS
FLW Outdoors, named after Forrest L. Wood, the legendary founder of Ranger Boats, is the largest fishing tournament organization in the world and is offering anglers the chance to win more than $33 million through 231 tournaments in 2009. FLW Outdoors also is taking fishing mainstream with FLW Fantasy Fishing, offering the largest awards possible in the history of fantasy sports, $10 million in cash and prizes. Sign up for Player’s Advantage for only $10 to get your edge and win. For more information about FLW Outdoors and its tournaments, visit FLWOutdoors.com or call (270) 252-1000. For more information about FLW Fantasy Fishing and Player’s Advantage, visit FantasyFishing.com.
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 Bill Siemantel, big bass expert, educator, lure designer and tournament pro wants to give you a chance at some great prizes and have some fun along the way.
Here is your chance to win a Big Bass Zone book and a Spro BBZ-1 8" Trout.
The winner of this week's Caption It! Cartoon will win an autographed copy of the book, "Big Bass Zone" by renowned trophy bass angler, Bill Siemantel.
The winning contestant will also receive a Bill Siemantel Signature Series SPRO BBZ-1 Swimbait and a BassFishin.Com T-Shirt.
Check out the following link http://bassfishin.com/fishing-cartoons/caption-it.php and label the cartoon. Its that simple!
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Genmar owner Irwin Jacobs was on hand at the Minneapolis Boat Show this past weekend to introduce a new FinCraft 17 foot fiberglass fishing boat priced under 14000.00 with a ton of standard equipment including depth sounders, 50 Hp 2 stroke engine and trailer. To read more and get a look at it click here.
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Lucky Craft, in conjunction with 2007 BASS AOY Skeet Reese, has a new spinnerbait that just recently began hitting the shelves. They call it the Redemption Spinnerbait and comes in 7 colors and two sizes. High Performance Tungsten Components, sleek body and rattles inside the body distinguish this as a special bait and a very unique one in the marketplace. The bait retails for $13.99 or $14.99 for the MS American Shad.
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BASS FISHING 101
Presented by BoatUS Angler
The BASS FISHING 101 series is a new concept created to help upcoming anglers. It is an entry level course that will teach these new anglers what they need to know about bass fishing. With collegiate fishing in mind, this 101 level course will highlight key concepts that are essential in the sport of bass fishing. The course will present articles that explore in-depth; necessary rigging options, baits, and when applicable, habits of the bass plus much more.
This series will help inexperienced anglers gain the knowledge they need to be successful in the sport and help them obtain an edge in the competitive collegiate bass fishing world. This series is also a great resource for experienced anglers, to bring back some basic key concepts that sometimes get lost in the sport.
Texas Rigging 101
The Texas rig was developed in the 1960'sto solve the problem of fishing a bait in, over and through heavy cover where bass live, without getting hung up or spooking fish. The simple idea of the rig is to take either a straight shank or offset hook and rig it in such a manner that the hook point is covered and therefore for all intents and purposes weedless or snag free...
READ MORE at www.CollegiateBassChampionship.com
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Tarleton State takes back to back Collegiate titles.
The team of John Anderson and Tanner Morgan claimed the FLW College Fishing title on Falcon Lake. This is the second win for the Tarleton State Bass Club in less than a month. The team of Tanner Morgan and Chris Michels just recently claimed Stephen F. Austin Bucketmouth Bass Tournament (an ACA sectioned event) on Sam Rayburn... READ MORE at www.CollegiateBassChampionship.com
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Offer Expires: March 15th, 2009
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Forward email
Careco Multimedia, Inc. | 5717 Northwest Parkway | Suite 104 | San Antonio | TX | 78249
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 FLW Newell photo
Greg Hackney is on top of his game and is a good pick to win the Bassmaster Classic . He talked to Pete Robbins in today's Unplugged Story. Check it out.
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It starts with his eyes. Greg Hackney has piercing pupils that betray his emotions. Think back to his Elite Series win on Sam Rayburn in 2006 and it was the eyes that told the story first, busting out of his head, apparently operating independently of the rest of him and of each other. His mouth said “King Kong ain’t got nothin’ on me,” but his eyes breathed fire and conveyed the message that he had arrived as a dominant force.
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The Berkley Experience Trailer will be at the Bass Pro Shops in Orlando.....to read more click here.
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Mike Iaconelli talks on Wired Radio with Terry Brown about his new title sponsorship with Laserlure and a very productive off season. To listen click here.
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From Todays Fishing Wire:
BASS EDGE PUBLISHES "SOMEBODY'S GOTTA DO IT"
WASHINGTON, Mo. - Steve Brigman's new book is now available through bassedge.com. "Somebody's Gotta Do It" is a collection of stories from an outdoor writing career that spans more than 20 years. With a mixture of adventure, humor and good storytelling, Brigman takes readers on safari, dog sledding and 100-mile river journeys.
"What a joy it was reliving these good times as we put this together," Brigman reminisced. "I must admit though, I felt a little older when I realized everything I'd done."
"We are thrilled to share Steve's most humorous and heartfelt writings about his experiences in the field," said Bass Edge President Don Hertz.
Hunters will sit alongside Brigman in a tree stand, duck blind and in the turkey woods, while anglers are treated to a healthful dose of fishing from Africa to Alaska. Beyond the adventure travel, Brigman also shares his witty take on the life of an outdoor writer on the homefront -- with his beloved wife and dog.
The book is illustrated by Duane Hada, the celebrated Ozark artist hailed by Brigman as the best fly fisherman he ever met.
Brigman has earned more than 50 writing and photography awards during his decades-long career as a newspaper reporter, editor and freelance outdoor writer. Besides hosting the weekly podcast "The Edge," he is producer of Bass Edge television, and editor of bassedge.com and "Inside Edge," the monthly e-newsletter of Bass Edge.
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If you have a tidal angling situation but aren't sure about it, there are two ways to get information: go fishing or read as much as possible.
It's a good idea to do both, and the guys at FLW Outdoors have a good story by David A. Brown about tidal fishing. It has tips on reading the water, time management and more.
Tides have a learning curve but once you figure things out, you won't be stuck in the mud. Visit www.flwoutdoors.com/article.cfm?id=149414 to check out Brown's story.
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 Toyota photo
Laserlure of Shreveport LA has added another high profile angler to their stable with the signing of New Jersey Elite Series pro Mike Iaconelli. Earlier this month they signed former Bassmaster Classic Champion Boyd Duckett to their staff as well. Both anglers will be running Laserlure wrapped boats for the Elite Series in 2009.
“The first time I saw the baits I was excited about the potential of what these things could do. When I finally got home and tested them out, I was amazed at my success! They truly out fished ordinary crankbaits!” said Iaconelli.
“I can’t wait to use the LaserLures this year on the trail and I can’t wait to use them in the Bassmaster Classic on the Red River in February! Having these lures in my arsenal will definitely give me a big advantage!” quoted Iaconelli.
“We are thrilled to have signed Mike Iaconelli to our team. We have developed the most innovative and one of the most elite lures on the market, I think Mike Iaconelli will be a great addition to our team. Mikes professionalism, work ethic, personality and fishing skill will bring great success to our partnership.” Said LaserLure’s National Sales Manager Mike Lopez.
Laserlure utilizes laser technology in each bait and notes that strike zones become 300% larger when their baits are used. Laserlure currently has a Deep Diver (7-9 feet), a shallow diver (0-3 feet), a super shallow diver (0-12 inches), a popper, and a Laserlure jerkbait in their arsenal. More designs are on the way and rest assured that Duckett and Iaconelli has a few tricks up their sleeves that will enhance the Laserlure brand in the future as well.
As a side note: Laserlure was just featured on the cover of February Bassin' Magazine's Special Issue highlighting this years top 50 lures. On newstands now!
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 Thanks for all the entries! The Gene Larew Soup to Nuts contest has ended and the winners have been chosen. Congratulations to Don Dubois, Tony Posey and Chris Clark!
Here are the questions with the correct answers:
1. What is the length of the new Biffle O Lizard? 8.5"
2. What product received the "Best of the Best Award" in Field and Stream magazine? 3 Legged Frog
3. How many sizes of Salt Craws are there and what are they?
Congrats and look for another great contest starting Monday from Big Bite Baits. This will be a fun one gang.
Wired2Fish - Your contest headquarters!
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Four-time Bassmaster Classic champion Rick Clunn of Ava, MO is known for considering all the variables involved in a successful tournament finish. When he was first introduced to the Xtreme Glove at an Elite Series event in 2008 he saw the product as a way to protect his hands and the fish while handling them in the livewell and on stage. He also saw opportunities to improve the product and make it a must-have for anglers at all levels. The Rick Clunn Signature Series glove came about from working with the folks at Xtreme Glove and is in the proto-type stage with expected availability in April of 2009. Rick will be wearing the proto-type while fishing the 2009 Classic.
“In other sports like football and golf the competitors all wear gloves to protect their hands and give them a better feel. To this point anglers have felt that the gloves on the market offer protection, but eliminate feel. The components of the Xtreme Glove give me a better feel in addition to protecting my hands from the fish, sun and cold. I encourage people to open their minds to the possibilities that the Xtreme Glove brings them.”
“Working with an angler of Rick Clunn’s experience and studiousness has been priceless. We started out wanting to give anglers a way to protect their hands and ended up with a glove that will revolutionize the sport,” Lynn Robinson, CEO of Xtreme Glove. “The Signature Series glove is going to change the way people think about fishing and hand protection.”
Bass Pro Shops will stock Xtreme gloves in all stores. The first shipments arrive in early February.
For dealer inquiries and more information about Xtreme Glove contact Lynn Robinson at (334) 313-2201. Additional information can be found on the company’s website www.xtremeglove.com.
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PAA Sales Position Open.....
Strong growth continues within the PAA, with increasing membership and web traffic up 168%. The PAA is now seeking a full time sales person. Pay is base salary plus commission. Submit resume prior to January 30, 2009 to Jamie@fishpaa.com or to lisa@fishpaa.com / Or, contact the office by phone at 270.527.2030. Regular mail address is: PAA / PO Box 655 / Benton KY / 42025
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Zoom Bait Company has introduced a new Magnum Shakey Worm. To read more about it click here.
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Dora, Alabama's Vicious Fishing has added another premier angler to the fold with the signing of Bassmaster Elite angler Gerald Swindle. He will be joining Marty Stone, Jeff Reynolds, Kevin Short, Pete Ponds as well as other species specific Elite Anglers.
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Elite Series pro Mike McClelland has joined Liquid Performance and will be endorsing their Nauticare line of products. "I have used this boat care line-up on fiberglass and its works flawlessly but with these wraps it is amazing. Its simple, no mess and all comes in a kit perfect for being on the road and keeping the boat looking new" said McClelland.
You can purchase Liquid Performance Nauticare at Tackle Warehouse by clicking here. |
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California Elite Series angler and Wired2Fish Consultant Jared Lintner loves his Powell Rods. We asked him about the Powell line up and he said that although all Powell Rods have a place in the anglers arenal, are technique specific, and all are built to the highest standards, he indeed has 5 favorites that he recommends and thinks Wired2Fish Readers would do well buying for the perfect group of rods for all techniques.
Lintner says "The Lintner FAB 5 Powell Rod selection is as follows: 765 Flipping Stick thats tough as nails yet not unwieldy, 735 Frog Rod that may be the best open water and slop rod I have ever used, 754 Glass Rod great for lipless crankbaits and spinnerbaits, 704 Casting-All purpose great for jigs, worms and even spinnerbait and a 732 Spinning Rod that I like for drop shotting."
To learn more about these rods and others in the Powell line up click here.
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This just in from BassZone...
NORMAN, Okla. (Jan. 23, 2007) – The BASS ZONE on XM, satellite radio’s first show devoted entirely to professional bass fishing, features BASS Elite Series anglers Brian Snowden and Mike Iaconelli. The show can be heard on XM Sports Nation (Channel 144). The show broadcasts Sunday, Jan. 25, at 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. EST.
Snowden discusses his recent victory in the inaugural PAA tournament held on Lake Toho, Fla. Iaconelli talks about his television show and the upcoming Classic. During the Berkley “In the Zone” segment, hosts Gary Giudice and Mark Jeffreys will discuss changes to BASS rules.
Listeners can submit weekly questions for guests of THE BASS ZONE on XM through www.basszone.com.
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Big Bite Baits in conjunction with venerable pro Dean Rojas announced today a new genre of bait with the new "Fighting Frog". Listen to Wired Radio with Terry Brown as he describes the innovation and design characteristics of the new bait. To listen click here. |
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Kota Kiriyama wants you to know about and even get some new Japanese baits with his Ninjatacklebox.com website. He shows Wired readers what is new from Japan, techniques and how to fish them and even provides an opportunity to get some free product as well. He won't tell you what you will get but you can email him at present@ninjatacklebox,com for "Ninja Treats".
We will be working with Kota to introduce a new bait around February 1 as well. You will see it and have a chance to win it first on Wired2Fish.com. Stay tuned for that announcement.
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The Big Bass Tours Mark Jones talks about their upcoming events and some of the neat programs they are running on slot lakes. To listen click here.
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Roland and Judy Martin paid a visit to WBT angler Judy Wong's back yard in October and filmed a fishing show on Toledo Bend Reservoir. The show will feature Roland and Judy catching lots of scrappy largemouth bass, using Swimming Senkos, Kreature Baits and Craw Worms. This episode of the "Fishing with Roland Martin" show will air on the Versus channel next week at these times:
Tuesday Jan 27 4:30 a.m. CST & 11:30 a.m. CST
Friday Jan 30 1:00 p.m. CST
Saturday Jan 31 8:00 a.m. CST
Tune in!
Rumor also has it that Judy took a large 10 point buck this fall as well. Congrats on both Judy!!
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One of the hottest new baits in the south is the Grande Bass Rattlesnake. It now has a big brother with the 6.5 inch Diamondback Rattlesnake just introduced today.
To learn more about Grande Bass, the Rattlesnake or the new Diamondback click here.
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Jewel: The Good Guys Win
It was 20 years ago today,
Sergeant Pepper taught the band to play.
--The Beatles, “Sergeant Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band”
It took Jewel Bait Company 20 years to become an overnight success.
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We had the opportunity to talk to Global Product Manager Mark Gibson of Humminbird today and he tells us the future is indeed bright at their company. No sitting on your hands at this depth sounder manufacturer. "We are all about raising the feature richness of our products from the top of the line to the base units and making it both more functional and easier for our users " noted Gibson.
They have done some spectacular things for 2009. The Humminbird 700 Series has been elevated with a complete facelift and higher resolution screens. Higher pixels counts means more detail and a new 640X640 pixel color display shouts high resolution. "We also now have 3 preset buttons on the units. The ability to give 3 different screen views at a single touch is what anglers wanted and we gave it to them. Also the display is a true 5"display and buyers can choose between internal and external GPS for the apllication. We offer internal GPS on combo mounts only today" said Gibson.
Also on the 700 Series Humminbird is offering a second SD card slot where snapshots can be stored along side a Navionics map.
In the 900 and 1100 Series, although there are no new units, the groups have two cool new purchasable features that could intrigue the buyer. XM Nav Weather and radar gives the boater realtime inland weather and the AS GR HA GPS receiver is more accurate from 4 to 2 meters. Mark a brushpile and be right back on it.
The Blitz is on at Humminbird! "We are excited about the future here" said Gibson.
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Steve Fleming, former PR Director of Mercury Marine, and most recently at Bass and Walleye Boats has rejoined Mercury Marine as Public Relations Director. Steve will also oversee the organization for fresh and saltwater pro staffs for Mercury.
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The Harris Chain of Lakes near Tavares, Florida will host the BASS Southern Open next week. One change is anglers will be taking off from Lake Dora. Those not fishing Dora will exit through the scenic Dora Canal and head to other lakes in the chain. Before anglers took off from the Venetian Gardens. To read more about the open click here. |
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You have heard us talk about Tru-Tungsten Swimbaits before but we had to let you in on a big Falcon Lake bass caught by Cody Malone this past week. The fish weighed 12 lbs 2 ounces and was caught on a Tru-Tungsten Tru-Life 7" Swimbait. Below is a picture of the fish.
In his own words Cody describes how he caught her:
I caught this nice bass during my practice for the season opening FLW Stren tournament on Lake Falcon in Zapata, (in deep south) Texas. I had been on a nice school of fish when I decided to put the old faithful flippin' stick down and try to see what other baits I could coax the bass into biting.
I decided to use the 7'' True-Life Gold Tilapia Swimbait, due to the bluegill model’s high catch rate on my guide trips at Lake Fork. I chose to use only two tungsten balls for the slower sink rate, rigged on 25lb florocarbon line.
I paralleled the road bed’s tree line in 8-14ft. On the first ten casts I had several followers, so I backed off and cast a little further to give the fish time to commit to the bait before they were so close to the boat. On the next cast and about half way to the boat my 8ft Powertackle swimbait special rod loaded up, and the fight was on.
The fish was trying to jump out of the water but she was so fat she couldn't manage to get out anything over her head out. At that point I knew she was a good one, but I had no idea until I netted her on how big she really was. After snapping a few pictures she was quickly released to spawn and make more huge bass for the future anglers to enjoy.
Congrats on the nice fish Cody!! Catch and Release does work!
The
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Elite Series veteran Lee Bailey Jr talks to Terry Brown on Wired Radio about life after fishing the Elite Series and what he is doing now. To listen click here.
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Liquid Performance has joined Wired2Fish as a advertiser/partner for 2009.
Wired2Fish and Liquid Performance have teamed up to bring you the opportunity to get the best marine care products made. Liquid Performance, in particular the Nauticare line, has the best in marine protectants and cleaners in the business. Reasonably priced, long lasting and easy to use Nauticare comes in a kit as well.
To learn more about Liquid Performance Nauticare click here
Your boat and motor are major investments. Taking the time to wipe it down, clean it up and protect it using the right products is critical. Making sure it will last a lifetime and always look showroom new is important to every owner.
Wired2Fish knows boats and motors and our staff does everything possible to make sure our boats are well maintained too. You should as well. Using Nauticare on your boat is smart business.
Welcome Liquid Performance!
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Wired2Fish reader Patrick Staley won the Christmas Ultimate Tackle Contest and sent us a few pictures of his haul. He knew his stuff and answered some tough questions accurately.
Thanks Patrick for reading Wired2Fish and thanks to all the companies that participated.
Look for more great contests like this one soon!!
Wired2Fish.com is your contest headquarters!
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In an open letter to the media Elite Series pro Skeet Reese gives his opinion about the recent changes at BASS and the Elite Series Schedule.
Skeet Reese talks about 2009 Bassmaster Elite Series Changes
Auburn, Calif. – While the Bassmaster Elite Series has been a heavily discussed topic for the past 10 days, 2007 Bassmaster Angler of the Year Skeet Reese had been out of the country. While on vacation with his family, Reese had been able to keep up on the general information regarding the Elites schedule and payout changes, but only looked at the fine details after returning late last week.
“I returned home from vacation to find that there have been a lot of happenstances that affect the Bassmaster Elite Series,” said the three-time BASS winner. “I was not able to take part in any of the discussions, but when I could, I stayed up to date with the changes.”
When word of the initial adjustments to the schedule and entry fee reductions became public, Reese felt that they were on the right track for the benefit of all parties involved. However, the first payout adjustments were not what he expected. “From a business standpoint, the initial payout left a lot to be desired,” Reese explained. “But they (BASS) listened to the anglers and sharpened their pencils and I think things are definitely improved now.”
Had he been able to draft the adjustments himself, Reese would have been pleased to see an eight event schedule, with $4000 entry fees and a payout that saw the last paycheck position receive $8000; double their entry fees in return, thus keeping the payout structure roughly the same as the $5200 model. He said that where they finally settled is not ideal, but they at least make sense.
“I know that change is not always a welcome occurrence, but I believe that the developments of the past two weeks are necessary, and while they’re not perfect, I think they are well intended,” Reese reported. “What is important to consider is the overall health of the sport, which includes the financial well being of the sponsors, the organizations and the anglers; we are all inter-related and need each other to survive.
“We come into this sport as individual athletes and businesses, but we all have a common focus, which is our ability to make a living doing what we love to do,” Reese opined. “The tournament organizations are businesses, as we are, and the companies that support all of us; if we don’t make adjustments, it could drastically affect the future.”
“We’ve all seen that BASS has taken some financial hits themselves recently, and those reductions certainly impacted their decision making in those adjustments, but everything is starting to come into focus now,” said the Auburn, Calif. pro. “It is important for us to look at the whole picture and realize that the Elite Series is the only circuit that has a one in two payback in the nation, and as long as we have the chance to make this situation work.”
“I think what we’ve seen this offseason, is that BASS, and FLW for that matter are willing to listen to their anglers and make adjustments to their programs based on angler input,” he said. “BASS made decisions based on the whole economic situation, and when they didn’t make sense for the anglers, they took the input, and made further adjustments.”
Reese said that the only other topic that is left somewhat hanging to him is the postseason Angler of the Year chase, he feels that it creates imbalance in the Angler of the Year race as a whole. “I know there are television considerations, but to reduce the field to 12 anglers for those two events sacrifices the integrity of the AOY title,” he said he thinks adjustments should be made to this program. “I think keeping the field size to a larger number maintains the ability for anglers to lose or make up points in proportion to the rest of the season.
Keeping the entire field or possibly the top 50 in the Angler of the Year standings maintains the uniformity of the race. Either that or crown the AOY after the eight events then use those two events as a separate playoff type round or something else.”
“It may not change, and if that’s so, it is what it is, and we’ll go forward. However, this off season has shown that if we all communicate in a business manner, realizing that everything is inter-related, and for a year we can all make some adjustments to keep things moving forward,” Reese said in closing. “Then we can all turn our attention to the Classic and the season in front of us.”
Skeet Reese is a Bassmaster Elite Series pro, the 2007 Bassmaster Angler of the Year with career earnings that total more than $1.5 million. Reese has qualified for 10 Bassmaster Classic appearances, and has finished in the top 10 40 times, including three wins in BASS competition in an 11 year career. Reese is a 39-year-old California native who resides in Auburn, Calif. with his wife Kim, and two daughters; Leamarie and Courtney. Visit his website: www.skeetreeseinc.com.
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OK, Wired2Fish Readers, here is your chance to be heard. Wired2Fish is giving you a chance to be Bass Fishing's Commissioner. You get to be the BOSS, the Big Kahuna, the Head Honcho and you get to make all of the decisions. Armchair opinions do count and we want to hear what you would do for bass fishing if you controlled it. No bashing current leagues or personnel please! This is a clean campaign and mud slinging will not be tolerated. We just want to hear your thoughts and ideas on finances, payouts, pro's and tournaments or whatever. How can we make it better?
We also are giving you several ways to do it. You can send it to us via email feedback at feedback@wired2Fish.com. You can send it to us via audio files and we may play the best ones on Wired Radio, you must include your "real name and address" or you can send us a homemade video expressing what you would do to make our sport better. (same deal on name and address). Send tapes and or DVD's to Wired2Fish, 2024 Eagle Rd. B2 Normal, Illinois 61761
No more setting in the weeds. Its your chance to be heard. We are anxiously waiting on your response Mr. Commissioner!!!
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FLW Tournament Director Ron Lappin knows a thing or two about big stringers of bass. He has caught a few himself and has weighed a few as well as a tournament director and angler on Kentucky Lake but there is no way he could have foreseen the giant bags of bass at Falcon Lake this past weekend.
When you put some of the best anglers in the country on undoubtably the best bass lake in the world in pre-spawn and spawn crazy things happen.
Unforgettable results were the norm and the final day of the Stren Series Texas Division opener proved to be one of those memorable moments for pro Joe Setina. Starting the day in seventh place, 15 pounds behind the leader, Setina completed an incredible comeback courtesy of a 38-pound, 14-ounce stringer and took home the victory. His total was 92 lbs 2 ounces
Setina’s 38-14 was the second-heaviest day-three catch in the history of FLW Outdoors, regardless of circuit. It also ranks fourth all time as the heaviest single-day catch in company history.
Setina utilized 3/4-ounce Santone flipping jig and a watermelon Reaction Innovations Sweet Beaver trailer. Occasionally he would mix in a 10-inch Berkley Power Worm, but 80 percent of his fish came on the Beaver. He threw both baits on 25-pound Seaguar fluorocarbon line.
In second was Rick Cathey but his best day was not during the tournament. He did have a string of 5 bass weighing 38.1 in the event but during practice while guiding caught 5 that weighed over 56 lbs!! Cathey weighed 90 lbs 13 ounces for the event.
In third place was guide Charles Haralson who weighed 89 lbs 12 ounces for the event.
One thing we should mention. WBT pro Debra Hengst predicted a 32-35 pound average per day in a recent Unplugged article. Not bad Debra......only 4 pounds heavy!!!
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Missouri's Brian Snowden wins PAA opener at Toho
 Troy Jens photo
For full results click here.
KISSIMMEE, Fla. -- Brian Snowden of Missouri has not always loved Florida, but those days may be over after he jumped from third place on Day 2 to win the inaugural CarrotStix PAA Series presented by Phoenix Boats.
Snowden caught five bass Saturday totaling 17.75 pounds and finished with a three-day total of 52.44 pounds. Steve Kennedy of Alabama was second with 48.70 and Todd Faircloth of Texas was third with 48.68.
Snowden said strategy and a little teamwork was a key ingredient in his success.
"I started fishing reeds and pads with a worm during practice," he said. "My friend, Matt Reed, gave me a little advice and I moved out."
That adjustment was what it took to unseat the Day 2 leader, Shaw Grigsby of Florida, who finished 10th with 39.52. Grigsby had the tournament lunker, a 13-plus pounder on the first day. He had a tough final day and had one keeper that weighed 1.50 pounds.
Snowden fished in close proximity to Reed, but said, “I was just fortunate enough to get the bigger bites.”
Snowden fished an Xcalibur XR-75 rattle bait in “Foxy Shad” color, targeting open grass in 6.5 to 7 feet of water. He threw the big bait on a St Croix Legend 7-foot medium-heavy rod, with 17-pound XPS Fluorocarbon line on a BPS Johnny Morris Signature reel.
The next event in the CarrotStix PAA Series presented by Phoenix Boats will be April 9-11 on legendary Neely Henry Lake in Gadsden, Ala.
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 Congratulations to Noel Spann of LaGrange, TX and Johnny Wiggs of Sardis, MS for being the winners of the Habervision Ouzo Eliminator Goggle Contest! Let us know how you like them Gents!
We appreciate all of you that entered and look forward to your entries on the upcoming contests! Look for more exciting contests and don't forget the Classic is just around the corner. We will be putting up a special Classic section soon that will include product previews, places to go while in Shreveport/Bossier City, and much more!
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Congrats to Andy Bailey, Craig Rogers and Greg Prince for being drawn from the correct entries on the Spro Little John MD crankbait contest today. Your tackle is on the way guys!!
More great contests are on the way including a All-Terrain Pick of the Litter contest where owner Steve Hauge gives us his choice colors from All-Terrain, a Fish Stalker Bungi Head assortment and a great new way to fish a plastic worm and a Zoom Baits spring assortment of the best baits for pre-spawn and spawn, just to name a few. We will also be bringing you a chance at new release baits from Berkley, Strike King, Jackall and more!
Wired2Fish is your information, personalities and CONTEST headquarters. Thanks to all who participated.
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Wired2Fish Consultant Shaw Grigsby has taken the Day 2 lead of the PAA Carrot Stix Tournament presented by Phoenix Boats at Lake Toho with 38.02 lbs. The new beard may be the deal and look for him to keep it if he pulls off the win!!!
In second place is Steve Kennedy with 37.34.
Third place is Brian Snowden with 34.69.
This is shaping up as a slugfest. Several anglers who were down in day one standings caught them good yesterday and the leaderboard is up for grabs.
For the entire list of standings go to:
http://fishpaa.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/toho-day-2.pdf
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Vick Urges You to Stay in Your Lane
No one ever accused Texas of harboring a large number of tree huggers. But when you look at the Lone Star state’s major lakes, it quickly becomes evident that somebody liked trees an awful lot – so much so that they left nearly all of them intact when they built many of the big ponds.
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Damiki Tackle, the makers of Pro Angler Choice plastics, state of the art fishing rods including the Damiki Dark Angel (pictured), DC 100 and 200 crankbaits, MAMBA jigs, MTS Spinnerbaits, and MTB Buzzbaits. Damiki utilizes the latest in component technology and manufacturing and has the wherewithal to build the best products money can buy. Damiki has joined Wired2Fish.com as an advertiser/partner.
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Landowners, media, officials and interested parties met to discuss best practices for grass management at Lake Guntersville in Alabama last night. Alan Clemons updated his blog today regarding that meeting and it sounds like it was both productive and informative. To read his blog go to:
blog.al.com/gone-fishing
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For more info on supporting this great event or to support a Collegiate Fishing Club contact Careco Multimedia.
www.carecotv.com
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BOATUS COLLEGIATE BASS FISHING CHAMPIONSHIP REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!!!
Registration for the BoatUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship is NOW OPEN at www.CollegiateBassChampionship.com!!!
Location: Lake Lewisville, Texas
Dates: May 28th & 29th
Up to three teams may be registered and registration will be on a first come basis.
LONE STAR SPRING BREAKOUT REGISTRATION OPEN!!!
The ACA sanctioned Lone Star Spring Breakout registration is NOW OPEN at www.CollegiateBassChampionship.com!!! The event will be held at Stillhouse Hollow Lake, TX on March 14th. There will be no limit on number of teams able to register from any one school/university.
For more info and for all the latest Collegiate Fishing news log on to www.CollegiateBassChampionship.com
The 2009 BoatU.S. CBFC is sponsored by BoatU.S. Angler, Ranger Boats, Cabela's, American Rodsmiths, Take Me Fishing, Abu Garcia, Aviva Fishin' Buddy, Berkely, Costa Del Mar, EPIC Sports Video Cam, Falcon FTO tackle organizers, Fenwick, Frogg Toggs, Garmin, G2 XDS Series, Sports Marketing, Lago Vista Lodge, Gene Larew Lures, MotorGuide, Power-Pole, Rapala's Fishing Frenzy, Sebile, Sperry Top-Sider, TruckVault, Yamaha, The Bass Federation, City of Lewisville, Sneaky Pete's Marina.
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Forward email
Careco Multimedia, Inc. | 5717 Northwest Parkway | Suite 104 | San Antonio | TX | 78249
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 PAA photo
Fan favorite and now bearded Shaw Grigsby
with a 13.36 lber caught at Toho.
The inaugural Carrot Stix PAA tournament trail event presented by Phoenix Boats kicked off with a bang and even with cold front conditions the best in fishing brought more than respectable weights to the scales on Day 1.
Ben Matsubu leads after day 1 with a 5 bass limit weighing 23.15 lbs. He anchored this limit with a 11.64 lb beauty. In second is Florida's Shaw Grigsby with 5 fish weighing 22.10 lbs. He had a monster bass of 13.36 lbs anchoring his limit.
In third place was Chris Elliot with 5 fish weighing a very respectable 20.81 lbs. Illinois Chad Morgenthaler rounded out the top 4 with 5 fish weighing 18.68 lbs.
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OPTIMA Batteries Increases Association with BASS as Official Sponsor
OPTIMA Batteries, The Ultimate Power Source, and BASS, the worldwide authority on bass fishing, announced Thursday that Milwaukee, Wisc.,-based OPTIMA has increased their investment with BASS, becoming an official sponsor of the organization and its prestigious tournament structure.
The agreement includes sponsorship of the Bassmaster Classic, Bassmaster Elite Series, the BASS Federation Nation presented by Yamaha Outboards and Skeeter Boats, the Bassmaster Opens and the Women’s Bassmaster Tour presented by Academy Sports & Outdoors.
Additionally, OPTIMA will sponsor BASS’ youth initiatives: the Junior Bassmaster World Championship and the Bassmaster CastingKids program.
"OPTIMA Batteries is proud to continue our association with BASS, the worldwide leader in bass fishing," said Josie Cline, Marine Brand Manager for OPTIMA Batteries. "As an Ultimate Power Source for BASS and an avid supporter of the sport of bass fishing, OPTIMA Batteries encourages enthusiasts everywhere to stay out on the water longer and together we will continue to power the sport into the future."
As part of the agreement, OPTIMA will receive significant exposure across all of ESPN Outdoors’ multimedia properties including Bassmaster Magazine, Bassmaster.com and ESPN2 Outdoors programming.
OPTIMA has strong roots in the bass fishing industry. It served as a sponsor of BASS in 2008 and continues to be the primary sponsor of Bassmaster Elite Series pro Edwin Evers of Talala, Okla. Evers continues to perform well on the Elite Series, scoring a sixth-place finish in the Toyota Tundra Bassmaster Angler of the Year standings.
“OPTIMA has a fantastic reputation in the industry and we are excited to have them increase their association with BASS,” said Tom Ricks, vice president and general manager of BASS. “Companies like OPTIMA are necessary to grow the sport of bass fishing.”
For more information on OPTIMA Batteries, visit www.optimabatteries.com
For more information, contact BASS Communications at (407) 566-2208 or visit www.Bassmaster.com. Visit www.espnmediazone.com for ESPN's latest releases, schedules and other news, plus photos, video and audio clips and more.
About OPTIMA Batteries
OPTIMA Batteries are manufactured by Johnson Controls, Inc. Johnson Controls (NYSE: JCI - News) is the global leader that brings ingenuity to the places where people live, work and travel. By integrating technologies, products and services, we create smart environments that redefine the relationships between people and their surroundings. Our team of 140,000 employees creates a more comfortable, safe and sustainable world through our products and services for more than 200 million vehicles, 12 million homes and one million commercial buildings. Our commitment to sustainability drives our environmental stewardship, good corporate citizenship in our workplaces and communities, and the products and services we provide to customers. For additional information, please visit http://www.johnsoncontrols.com
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 15, 2009
BASS Announces Revisions to 2009 Bassmaster Elite Series Payout Structure
In light of recent feedback, BASS made revisions to the previously announced Bassmaster Elite Series payout structure. The new format, with the recent introduction of the Bassmaster Elite Series postseason, will remain intact.
Additionally, BASS moved the final regular-season event, The Champion’s Choice on Lake Oneida, back to its original dates of Aug. 13-16. The event will mark the culmination of the Bassmaster Elite Series regular season.
To view the new payouts, click here.
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Skeeter Anglers Preparing for 2009 Bassmaster Classic
Nine Skeeter anglers are preparing for the 2009 Bassmaster Classic on the Red River in Shreveport-Bossier City, Louisiana, February 20-22, and there’s a consistent theme among these Classic qualifiers – nobody knows what to expect from the Red River.
“Fishing the Red River system is great, but you have to be prepared for quickly changing weather and water conditions,” says Rodney Reeves of Bossier City-based Reeves Marine, the nation’s first bass boat dealership, and a cornerstone of the Skeeter dealer network dating back to the 1940s.
The nine Skeeter anglers heading to the 2009 Bassmaster Classic include defending champion, Alton Jones; 1995 champion, Mark Davis; 2008 Angler of the Year runner-up, Todd Faircloth; 2008 Rookie of the Year, Bobby Lane; Elite Series anglers Kelly Jordon, Dean Rojas, Dustin Wilks, Bill Lowen, and Southern Open qualifier, Matt Herren.
Alton Jones on Expectations:
“The Red River certainly has potential to kick-out some outstanding catches, but that all depends on the weather, not just during the event, but from now until then. If we hit a major flood or substantial rise in the water level, we’ll quickly figure out why it is named the “Red” River. Add in a cold front, and you can throw all that potential right out the window.”
Mark Davis on Adapting to Conditions:
“Fishing rivers is difficult because of changing conditions. Much of the Red River is not fishable, so competitors will be bunched-up in small areas looking for the best bite. I’ll be ready to adapt to the conditions, remaining open to fishing different techniques, and simply rolling with the punches.”
Todd Faircloth on Scouting:
“I spent about four days on the river before it went off limits, just trying to refresh my memory of the fishery. I fished a little, and looked a lot. The fish should be shallow in their pre-spawn stage when we return in February. Power techniques should dominate - and pitching, flipping, spinnerbaits and crankbaits could all play a role in determining the outcome. If an angler can average 18 pounds per day, he (or she) should have a chance of winning the event.”
Bobby Lane on his Chances for Success:
“There is no room for error at the Classic, so you have to be mentally prepared. I think about the event daily, and feel that my style of fishing fits this venue well. I have never fished the Red River, but it is similar to Florida fishing, with shallow water, and plenty of Lilly pads, stumps and structure.”
Kelly Jordon on Classic Preparation:
“I don’t obsess about the Classic, otherwise I’ll be emotionally and mentally spent when the time arrives. I plan to fish several tournaments between now and the Classic, getting into tournament “shape” so I’m not entering the Classic cold. This stretch of the Red River is in my backyard, less than 100 miles from my home in Mineola, Texas. I’m familiar with the waters, and have a history there, but it still boils down to catching fish when it counts – during the competition.”
Dean Rojas on Momentum:
“In winning the final Elite Series event of the 2008 season, I’ve got a taste for winning now. It had been a long time since I won a tournament, and I hope to carry this momentum into the Classic. I’m not only looking forward to fishing the Classic, but have high expectations for the 2009 Elite Series. The monkey is off my back, and I’m ready to take advantage of this opportunity.”
Dustin Wilks on his Classic Plans:
“I’ll try to get away from the crowds and maximize weight each day. I’ve been to the Red River twice to practice, and I continue to make adjustments to every single piece of tackle and equipment I plan to use during the Classic. With colder water in February, the fish will be schooling and feeding aggressively.”
Bill Lowen on Experience:
“My first Classic was a blur, so I’m looking forward to taking it all in on my second time around. I now have a good understanding of the event, and what to expect. If the weather sets-up right it could play right into my style of fishing.”
Matt Herren on the Venue:
“Being from Alabama, I’m used to fishing river systems. During pre-fishing, the Red River was low and clear. During the Classic, I expect the water to be high and muddy. The Shreveport area has a lot to offer fans coming from out of town, and I anticipate the locals to come out and support their favorite anglers.”
Skeeter Products, Inc. makes fishing and boating fun and rewarding with owner’s tournaments, a top-notch dealer network, and its ‘Real Money’ tournament incentive program. For more information, see your local Skeeter dealer, or visit www.skeeterboats.com.
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Huntsville Times Outdoors Editor Alan Clemons has an interesting perspective of an ongoing battle regarding homeowners and a grass problem at Lake Guntersville in Alabama. Sides have been drawn, spray bottles are ready and hopefully cooler minds prevail. This is one worth keeping an eye on for anglers across the country. To read Alan's Blog click here.
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 Wired photo
Alabama pro Gerald Swindle memorialized his late brother Tony with a new tatoo. To take a look at it click here. |
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California based Powell Rods has joined Wired2Fish today as a partner/advertiser for 2009.
For nearly 100 years Powell has been committed to building the best in fishing rods. Long known for premier fly fishing rods Powell owner Keith Bryan expanded the company's portfolio to bass fishing a few years ago and has never looked back.
"We are excited about bringing more exposure to our products through Wired2Fish.com. We believe in building the best high performance professional grade fishing rods in the business at a competitive price with an outstanding warranty and are thrilled to partner with Wired2Fish in 2009 to showcase that" said Powell's Bryan.
Pro staff members include Elite Series pros Jared Lintner and John Murray and FLW pro Wesley Strader to name a few.
Outstanding quality, superior warranty and a price point both dealers and anglers love, Powell is about building the best! .
"We are extremely excited about Powell joining Wired2Fish" said Get Outside President Terry Brown. "They build a product that anglers love and have faith in and we will showcase them in contests, promotions and through their anglers in 2009."
To learn more about Powell click here.
To buy Powell Rods go to Tackle Warehouse by clicking here.
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Have you ever wondered how good of a bass angler you could be if you had Jay Yelas teaching you the ropes on spinning gear, or how about 2008 Classic Champ Alton Jones on fishing and tuning a buzzbait or BASS Central Opens Point leader Matt Herren teaching jig fishing. Sean Hoernke, Todd Faircloth and Brent Chapman will also get you "schooled".
Mybasscoach.com gives you that chance. Mybasscoach also utilizes nutritionist Ken Hoover and Dr. Julie Bell to get your body and mind right. SMG Owner Elvin Smith talks about sponsorships too.
Check out this new opportunity at Mybasscoach.com and get to fish with the best right in your own home. Go to www.mybasscoach.com for a free sneak peak. |
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Ranger continues to receive accolades from the industry on their boats and trailers. Building the best in boats is more than a motto at Ranger.
The Ranger Z520 has become the flagship of the Ranger Fleet and Trailer Boats Magazine says "Some rigs simply epitomize state-of-the-art, and that’s exactly what you’ve got with Ranger’s Z520 Comanche. Topside, it’s evident in items such as a padded bow deck that makes long days of casting more comfortable, or a center rod locker that quickly converts to handle rods or tackle storage – or both. The rest of the design is equally commendable. … It’s designs like this that separate the casual from the dedicated in the world of freshwater fishboats.”
In addition to highlighting the Z520 Comanche and praising the craft’s fishing and performance virtues, the magazine showcases several pieces of Ranger photography throughout its recent issue, and also features a unique hard-top boat cover recently developed by Ranger engineers.
 Wired photo
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Ranger Boats has a killer new program with Evinrude on a boat and motor package celebrating 100 years of Evinrude. To learn more about what is included in the deal click here.
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Bad news can get squashed with good news and reports from last weeks Henry's Dealer Show in Greenville South Carolina were very favorable. "There may not have been as many dealers at this years show but the ones there were buying and doing it in a big way" said Gator Grip President Brook Johnson who attended the show. Guns and Ammo did exceptionally well and It seemed several companies in the fishing industry had an outstanding show as well. Companies like Jewel Bait, who introduced their new twin tail trailer and a couple of new jigs; Ardent, with the F500 and XS1000 reels; Yozuri, with it Shashimi Chameleon patented paint schemes were the big hits at the show. "Overall, I would rate this a very good show with the dealers and the outlook for the spring looks very good" noted Brooks.
Spring is just around the corner.....buy some tackle, its good for all of us!
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Florida can be a fickle place to bass fish. That is the reason pro's have a love/hate relationship there. One day its hotter than a two-dollar pistol and the next day a severe cold front arrives and 30 degree temps greet anglers.
Florida strain largemouths are every bit as fickle as the weather and this weeks kick-off a the Carrot Stix PAA opener presented by Phoenix Boats is shaping up as another battle with the weather. Daytime temps today were in the 60's but nightime temps are expected to drop and be in the 30's before the event begins. Will this be a flipping event or will anglers concentrate on the centers of pockets and bays with a trap?
Anglers we spoke to today were fickle as well. Some had flipping sticks teamed with heavy weights punching vegetation while others were looking for offshore fish.
"Its going to be a battle" noted amicable Alabama pro Matt Herren. "I don't think these bass have moved up yet. I haven't seen one bed."
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From PAA website today.....www.fishpaa.com
Donations to be received at the Lake Toho Carrot Stix PAA Series presented by Phoenix Boats.
We (PAA) recently had a chance to speak with Bernie Schultz and Polly Grigsby (Shaw’s wife). Many of us in the outdoor world who knew Tim Tucker also knew his children, Kyle and Rachel (11 year old twins). They are beautiful kids with a lot of life ahead of them. Polly Grigsby is going to take a moment to receive donations for the Kyle and Rachel Tucker Trust Fund during the PAA tournament this coming week at Toho, which will directly benefit the kids.
Donations can also be made by sending a check to the Kyle and Rachel Tucker Trust / send to Polly Grigsby / 4937 SW 80th Place / Gainsville FL 32608.
Triton also gave Tim’s boat to the children. It is for sale and the money goes to the kids’ trust fund. The sale of the boat would be a great help to the kids. Information about the boat can be received by contacting Jeff Miller at:
Millers Boating Center. 1661 NW 57th St Ocala, FL 34475 (352) 622-7757
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BoatUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship Registration to Begin on Jan. 15, Association of Collegiate Anglers Announces
2009 Collegiate Bass Schedule of Televised Events.
On January 15, 2009 registration will begin for the 2009 BoatUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship. The event will be held on Lake Lewisville, TX. Activities will start May 25th and end with the crowning of a new Collegiate National Champion on May 29th. Registration for the BoatUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship closes May 18th.
In an effort to support the amazing growth of college bass fishing, the 2009 BoatU.S. Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship series will feature televised regional events sanctioned by the Association of Collegiate Anglers (ACA) leading up to the championship event. Read more at www.collegiatebasschampionship.com
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Forward email
Careco Multimedia, Inc. | 5717 Northwest Parkway | Suite 104 | San Antonio | TX | 78249
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 Wired2Fish reader and BFL angler Drew Arvary of Port St. Lucie, Florida ended last year with this Florida State Record Largemouth! This giant tips the scales at 13.25 lbs and is an IGFA 4 lb. Line Class Record!
Drew caught this on a Castaic Catch 22. We're betting that was a battle! Good work Drew and thanks for sending us the photo!
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“This lake is going to be incredible in two or three years,” said WBT Pro Debra Hengst.
Was she talking about Pickwick? Neely Henry? Some stock tank in south-central Texas that was recently loaded up with freak show Florida-strain bass left to feed on cattle that come down to the bank for a drink?
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The tournament season is kicking off next week as the PAA field is set for 1st event at Toho in Central Florida.
Below is the final list of professional anglers participating 2009 Carrot Stix PAA Series presented by Phoenix Boats.
In alphabetical order:
Tracy Adams, Patrick Amick, Todd Auten, Terry Baksay, Chris Baumgardner, Charles Bebber, Bob Bennett, Mike Bierfreund, Tommy Biffle, Cody Bird, Shonn Blassingame, Bob Blosser, Dalton Bobo, Frank Boothe Jr., Roger Boler, Denny Brauer, Ray Brazier, Glenn Browne, Scott Browning, Greg Buie. Terry Butcher, Keith Caka, Ben Carroll, Russell Cecil, Tony Chachere, Jason Christie, Luke Clausen, Gary Clouse, Erwin Cole, Fred Contaoi, Arch Cornett, Brandon Coulter, John Crews, Brent Crow, David Curtis, Chris Daves, Ott DeFoe, Nick DiBerardino, Jim Dillard, Kurt Dove.
Craig Dowling, Boyd Duckett, Clay Dyer, Guy Eaker, Paul Elias, Chris Elliott, Gene Ellison, Luke Estel, Todd Faircloth, Art Ferguson III, Jami Fralick, Kyle Fox, Shinichi Fukae, Anthony Gagliardi, Andy Gaia, Sam Greer, Shaw Grigsby, Ricky Guy, Bradley Hallman, Charlie Hartley. Mike Hawkes, Matt Herren, Sean Hoernke, Tim Horton, Mike Iaconelli, Charlie Ingram, Aaron Lee Jakub, Duke Jenkel, Kelly Jordon, Pat Kelly, Steve Kennedy, J.T. Kenney, Gary Klein, Monte Knight, Trevor Knight, Koby Kreiger, Jeff Kriet, Arnie Lane, Bobby Lane, Chris Lane.
Russ Lane, Dave Lefebre, Randy Link, Elton Luce, Trea Luedke, Curt Lytle, Kyle Mabrey, Dave Mansue, Aaron Martens, Casey Martin, Ben Matsubu, Mike McClelland, Sandy Melvin, Andy Montgomery, Russell Moran, Andy Morgan, Chad Morgenthaler, Rick Morris, Michael Murphy, Sam Newby. Matt Ogrodowicz, Lonnie O'Neal, Takahiro Omori, Keith Pace, Brian Penso, Gordon Phillips, Patrick Pierce, Pete Ponds, Dennis Price Jr., Greg Pugh, Justin Rackley, Matt Reed, Derek Remitz, Jason Reyes, Gary Riffle, Mark Rose, Zell Rowland, Darrin Schwenkbeck, Bernie Schultz, Terry Scroggins.
Jason Seaton, Terry Segraves, Micah Silverman, Tim Sisk, Dave Smith, Brian Snowden, Dan Strickland, Marty Stone, Craig Taylor, Peter Thliveros, Eddy Thomas, Joe Thomas, Wes Thomas, Bryan Thrift, Byron Velvick, Lance Vick, Greg Vinson, Ronnie Wagner, Corey Waldrop, David Walker. Brad Wall, Kyle Walters, Chris Wilkerson, Dustin Wilks, Jason Williamson, Kevin Wirth, Dave Wolak, Mike Wurm.
The Jan 15-17 opener on Lake Toho in Kissimmee, Florida includes the world Super Stars of competitive bass fishing. The debut of the first complete tournament series both owned and operated by the Pro’s is about to get underway, with an exciting new dimension and new opportunities as anglers roll on the road toward the Toyota Texas Bass Classic to be held in October of 2009.
In related news the new membership of the PAA has grown to near 600 strong and is increasing day by day. Anglers and sponsors across the board are becoming part of the PAA’s new movement in professional and competitive bass fishing.
For information on the PAA – visit www.fishpaa.com
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Bill McElroy has hit the government buy-out nail on the head with his latest toon. Check it out at the bottom of the homepage.
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Rapala USA has joined Wired2Fish as a premium advertiser/partner for 2009. Rapala provides the best in lures, knives, rods, reels, tools, line and accessories for anglers. Products line Suffix Line, Rapala lures and accessories and Terminator Titanium Spinnerbaits and jigs are leaders in the industry. Rapala is sold in over 140 countries and holds over 240 World Record catches.
Pro staff members include Larry Nixon, David Fritts, Bernie Schultz and Tom Mann Jr.
Welcome aboard Rapala!
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Below is the latest news from BASS regarding changes to the 2009 Schedule.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 9, 2009
BASS Announces 2009 Bassmaster Elite Series Postseason, Reduced Entry Fees
BASS announced today it has revamped the 2009 Bassmaster Elite Series, decreasing entry fees per angler by $25,200 for the season and introducing a two-event, no-entry-fee postseason. The postseason places an increased focus on one of the most prestigious awards in the sport, the Toyota Tundra Bassmaster Angler of the Year. Despite the reduced entry fees, the top finisher in the AOY race will take home $250,000 and the total payout will remain at more than $1 million.
The postseason events will feature only the top 12 anglers in the Toyota Tundra Bassmaster Angler of the Year standings, determined after the regular season. Each postseason event will receive one hour of ESPN2 television coverage and the entire Elite Series will receive 15 hours of original programming on ESPN2 in 2009. Anglers who reach the postseason will be provided with unmatched brand-building opportunities.
The qualifiers will start the postseason with the AOY points that correspond with their standings among the top 12, based on the regular season. The top qualifier heading into the post-season will begin with 300 points, and the rest of the field will receive points that correspond with the AOY points structure. The postseason will be scored with the traditional AOY points system.
The postseason events will follow the culmination of the regular season, which ends with the Champion’s Choice on Lake Oneida out of Syracuse, N.Y. That final regular-season event has been moved to July 30-Aug. 2. Dates and locations for the postseason events will be announced at a later date.
With the announcement of the postseason, BASS has reduced its previously announced Elite Series regular-season schedule to eight events. The three events eliminated are the Alabama Charge (May 14-17; Pickwick Lake; Florence, Ala.), Cold Water Clash (July 23-26; Big Bay de Noc/Little Bay de Noc; Escanaba, Mich.) and the Empire Chase (Aug. 6-9; Lake Champlain; Plattsburgh, N.Y.). The revised 2009 Elite Series regular-season schedule can be found below. The amended payouts for the Elite Series regular season can be found at www.Bassmaster.com. The 2010 Elite schedule will remain as previously announced.
“We have had a number of productive discussions with Elite anglers and various stakeholders and determined that much like everyone else in this challenging economy our sport and anglers have been impacted,” said Tom Ricks, vice president and general manager, BASS and ESPN Outdoors. “We feel this decision is in the best interest of the industry, our anglers and sponsors.”
The entire roster for the 2009 Bassmaster Elite Series will be released in the coming weeks and Kevin VanDam, 2008 Toyota Tundra Bassmaster Angler of the Year, was in support of the format change.
“For the long-term health of the sport, this is a reasonable move,” said VanDam. “Looking at the entire Elite Series field, this announcement is helpful and appropriate and it serves the industry, anglers and sponsors well in a challenging environment.”
The Elite Series regular-season tournament format will follow the 2008 model, with the top 50 anglers qualifying for the third day of competition and the top 12 competing on the final day.
BASS will operate the Bassmaster Opens, the Women’s Bassmaster Tour presented by Academy Sports & Outdoors, the BASS Federation Nation and all other tournament programs in the same manner as previously announced.
In other news, the Bassmaster Elite Series Marshal Program has resonated tremendously with BASS members. To date, the available slots for Marshals are more than 75% filled for the eight Elite events. With limited space available, BASS members are encouraged to call 1-877-BASS-USA to reserve a spot.
Marshals who were registered for any Elite events that have been changed will be contacted by BASS. Any BASS member registered as a Marshal in the impacted areas will have the option of receiving a full refund or transferring his or her deposit to another Elite event that has available slots on a first-come, first-served basis.
For more information, contact BASS Communications at (407) 566-2208 or visit Bassmaster.com. Visit ESPNOutdoorsMedia.com for ESPN Outdoors’ latest releases, schedules and other news, plus photos, video, audio clips and more.
About BASS
For 40 years, BASS has served as the authority on bass fishing. With its considerable multi-media platforms and expansive tournament trail, BASS is guided by its mission to serve all fishing fans. Through its industry-leading publications Bassmaster Magazine, BASS Times and Fishing Tackle Retailer and comprehensive Web properties in Bassmaster.com and ESPNOutdoors.com, the organization is committed to delivering content true to the lifestyle. Additionally, television programming on ESPN2 continues to provide relevant content – from tips and techniques to in-depth tournament coverage – to passionate audiences.
The organization oversees the prestigious Bassmaster tournament trail, which includes the Bassmaster Elite Series, Bassmaster Opens, Women’s Bassmaster Tour and the Bassmaster Classic, the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing. Through its grassroots network, the BASS Federation Nation, BASS sanctions more than 20,000 events annually.
BASS also offers an array of services to its more than 500,000 members while spearheading progressive, positive change on issues related to conservation and water access. The organization is headquartered in Celebration, Fla.
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Media contacts: Doug Grassian, (407) 566-2216 or doug.grassian@espn.com
Anthony Bartkowski (407) 566-2135 or Anthony.bartkowski@espn.com
2009 Bassmaster Elite Series Schedule
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Date
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Event
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Fishery
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Host City
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March 12-15
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Battle on the Border
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Lake Amistad
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Del Rio, Texas
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March 26-29
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Diamond Drive
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Lake Dardanelle
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Russellville, Ark.
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April 2-5
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Dixie Duel
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Wheeler Lake
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Decatur, Ala.
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April 23-26
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Blue Ridge Brawl
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Smith Mountain Lake
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Moneta, Va.
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May 7-10
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Southern Challenge
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Lake Guntersville
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Guntersville, Ala.
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*June 3-6
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Tennessee Triumph
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Kentucky Lake
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Paris, Tenn.
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June 11-14
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River Rumble
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Mississippi River
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Fort Madison, Iowa
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July 30 – August 2
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Champion’s Choice
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Oneida Lake
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Syracuse, N.Y.
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* Event held Wednesday through Saturday
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The Florence Alabama Times Daily has updated their story to include Champlain and Bay De Noc as two other sites of cancellation events off of the Elite Series Schedule for 2009. Rather than speculate further or enhance rumors Wired2Fish will wait on official word from BASS on what and why and print it immediately upon receipt. BASS will be getting that information to the media this pm.
Stay tuned to Wired2Fish for more info.
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The Florence Alabama Times Daily is reporting that BASS, due to slumping economic times, is canceling 3 events on the 2009 Elite Series Schedule including a nearby event slated for Pickwick Lake. To read that story go to :
http://www.timesdaily.com/article/20090108/NEWS/901080295/1011/NEWS?Title=Bassmaster_pulls_tournament_from_Shoals
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Power Tackle is pleased to announce a sponsor partnership with Bassmaster Elite Series angler Mark Menendez.
Power Tackle, is based in Del Rio, TX on the shores of Lake Amistad. This premier bass fishing destination was the inspiration for a diverse product line of fishing tackle that is crafted here in the USA.
The company is co-owned by Tim Reneau and Chris Jaynes. “We are working into our second year of production,” Reneau said. “Our rods are being used most often in the state of Texas. We are extremely happy to have Mark working with us at Power Tackle. He is known as a tireless educator and effective speaker. Mark’s presence on the Elite Series will help the Power Tackle brand receive exposure in areas of the country new to us,” Reneau stated.
Chris Jaynes states; “We are excited about having Mark as part of our growing team and this new season of fishing we are entering into. To be in the winning circle, your mind and equipment must perform flawlessly. Our rods are built one at a time, with the finest components and craftsmanship. We know our products will compliment Mark this season.”
“The Power Tackle line of rods will help the bass angler land more bass!” said Menendez. “The detail in design and comfort allows the angler the utmost in sensitivity. After extensive testing, the new Palming Grips and ACS Reel seats offered on Power Tackle Rods have reduced the amount of wrist and elbow fatigue experienced from long days on the water. This is really evident in today’s power fishing techniques, such as swimbaits, deep cranking and heavy cover flipping,” Menendez states.
“I feel comfortable with every aspect of the Power Tackle Rods. From the complete lineup of rods to the warranty, Power Tackle Rods will help me land more bass,” Menendez concluded.
For additional information on the Power Tackle product line, please go www.powertackle.com.
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FLW Outdoors early season tournaments are filling up nicely. The first Stren Texas Division, FLW Series at Okeechobee, FLW Tour and the National Guard College Fishing events will meet under full fields. To read more about it click here. |
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Laserlure's Mike Lopez visits with Terry Brown on Wired Radio about the signing of Boyd Duckett to their pro-staff, the technology behind their baits and their holiday trip to El Salto. To listen click here |
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Demopolis, Alabama and 2007 Classic Champ Boyd Duckett has signed a new sponsorship deal with Shreveport, Louisiana based Laserlure, Inc.
LaserLure is a manufacturer of laser beam-infused lures. Mike Lopez, head of sales for Laserlure believes Duckett brings even more innovation to their team. “We are delighted to welcome Boyd Duckett to our team," Lopez said. "At LaserLure, we know that we’ve developed an innovative, exciting new product and we’re equally certain that we’ve formed a partnership with an angler that will bring the right kind of attention to our product. Nothing could please us more than knowing that when the Bassmaster Classic comes to Shreveport in February, Boyd Duckett will be tossing our lures and telling people the terrific things he’s found out about them.”
“I’m really proud to be part of the new LaserLure team, because the company has created a truly innovative product. LaserLure has taken a great idea and turned it into products that work." said Duckett.
He added “I think people who know me understand that I’m really careful to make sure I associate with high-quality, top-flight sponsors. And LaserLure is a terrific, growing company. It’s always my intention to work with folks that let me have a voice into how their products are advanced and marketed. LaserLure is giving me that opportunity, and I’m excited about this partnership.”
LaserLure's water-activated, computer-controlled laser lighted lures come in five body styles with more on the way and brings space age technology to lure building.
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Lucky Craft has a new spring catalog available now that you can download. Just click here to take a look at it and more in the first Daily Crank from Cox Marketing Group. |
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Dripping Springs, Texas plastic manufacturer GrandeBass has joined Wired2Fish as a advertiser/partner for 2009.
Grande Bass makes some great fish catching plastics like the Mutant, the Craw Machine, the Rattlesnake,(pictured) and the new Honcho. The Rattlesnake was highlighted in the December Bassmaster Magazine as a "must have" bait for 2009.
With a slogan like "Get the Net" how can you go wrong?
Welcome aboard GrandeBass!!
To learn more or buy from their online store click here. |
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The Professional Anglers Association is still seeking individuals who want to ride with the pro’s on lake Toho, in Kissimmee Florida for the 2009 Carrot Stix PAA Series presented by Phoenix Boats. This is the exciting first stop for the Pro’s on the road to the Toyota Texas Bass Classic.
There are no membership or entry fee requirements for observers.
The Toho event includes many of the most accomplished anglers/celebrities in competitive bass fishing.
For information on being an observer, call the PAA office at 270.527.2030 / or email Jamie@fishpaa.com / Visit the website for more tournament information at www.fishpaa.com.
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Texas angler and Lake Fork guide Lance Vick talks on Wired Radio today about his new service called Boatlanes.com and how it will make a difference getting around on Lake Fork, Toledo Bend and Sam Rayburn. To listen click here. |
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Tulsa, Oklahoma based Gene Larew Lures has joined Wired2Fish as a advertiser/partner for 2009. Gene Larew was the original salt impregnated soft plastic baits and continues to build in innovation and fish catching capabilities into every product. The new Biffle O' and Biffle O' Lizard shows that creativity is ongoing and we are excited to have them join us at Wired2Fish. Welcome aboard Gene Larew! To learn more about Gene Larew products click here. |
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The Carrot Stix PAA Series is now presented by Phoenix Boats
There is new excitement in the new year, Phoenix Boats has come aboard with the PAA as the official boat sponsor for the 2009 Carrot Stix PAA Tournament Series, which is now presented by Phoenix Boats. The new partnership between Phoenix Boats and the PAA is helping to focus the spotlight on a new dimension in professional bass fishing and Phoenix Boats has strengthened the foundation of the sport by “hooking up” with the PAA.
The president of Phoenix Boats, Gary Clouse says, “We are very excited to be a part of the PAA Tournament Series, we believe that the timing is right for Phoenix Boats to support the PAA’s inaugural tournament season”.
While the Phoenix Boat line is made in the old Bumble Bee manufacturing plant, the building is the only thing in common between the former Bumble Bee boats and Phoenix. “The Phoenix line is completely retooled, a lot of time went into the new hull”, explains Gary Clouse. He added, “We spent as much time (if not more time) working on the slow speed ride and handling as we did on the impressive top-end speeds”. Phoenix is the first totally new bass boat on the market in quite some time. Clouse gives credit to master designer, Greg Strahm, who engineered the new hull. Strahm has been a well known and respected designer for many years in the boating industry. “All I can say is that he (Strahm) is worth more than his weight in gold”, said Gary Clouse.
PAA Operations Manager, Jamie Hairgrove says that the PAA is very glad to have Phoenix as the official boat for the Carrot Stix PAA Series. “Since I started with PAA in 2007, the members have been requesting and looking for ways for the PAA to have their own tournament series. The PAA Staff and Board are very excited to be able to make these requests a reality in 2009. As PAA starts the very first tournament series developed by professional anglers for professional anglers, we are pleased to be able to team up with a new and growing company such as Phoenix boats to be able to offer the top two winning positions brand new bass boats complete with Evinrude engines”.
Gary Clouse explained that part of his interest in being a sponsor of the Carrot Stix PAA Series stems from his total belief in the PAA. “I have been behind the PAA 100%, even if we were not a sponsor I’m still an angler and I think that the PAA is very important to bass fishing as a sport, we need it”, said Clouse.
Gary Clouse has signed up to fish all three of the Carrot Stix PAA Series events, and hopes to qualify for the Toyota Texas Bass Classic. “I hope, if I can catch em’…”, he said.
In a seemingly dim economy, the PAA and Phoenix boats have created a bond for new growth in professional bass fishing by taking full advantage of a great, open ended opportunity to present a solid new tournament series for PAA members and all bass fishing fans in general.
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Today on BassZone, BASS Elite Series angler Boyd Duckett gives an video overview of what he thinks it will take to win the 2009 Bassmaster Classic on the Red River in February. It may surprise you! To watch the Wide Open Video click here. |
Watch the strategy as touring roommates, Mike Iaconelli and John Crews figure out the bite and put a successful fall pattern together in Mike’s home state of New Jersey. Mike and John turn a tough start into a productive and fun afternoon.
Fish PAA Television begins airing Janurary 5th at 7:30pm Eastern Time on WFN… The World Fishing Network.
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The Berkley Experience Trailer is stopping at four locations in January and February, which will cover the state of Florida. The 60-foot long semi brings an exciting array of product demonstrations and equipment to help any angler “Catch More Fish”.
Making its debut four years ago, the Berkley Experience Trailer brings an interactive approach to learning the different techniques used by top pros. Stops include 3 Bass Pro Shop stores and a Gander Mountain.
- Jan 9-11 Bass Pro – Fort Myers
- Jan 16 – 18 Bass Pro – Ft. Lauderdale
- Jan 30 – Feb 1 – Bass Pro Orlando
- Feb 6 – 8 Gander Mountain – Lake Mary
The Berkley Experience Trailer focuses on many different learning styles that help anglers better their trade. Demonstrations entertain and offer anglers of any level the chance to better their angling skill set. Once the big tent is set up, visitors can experience a wealth of product demonstrations including:
- Line Abrasion
- Bait Flow Tank
- Gulp! Alive! tank
- Gulp! vs Plastic bait
- Abu Garcia Revo vs. Competition
The interior of the trailer puts anglers “in the water” and includes interactive touch screens covering a variety of fishing species like bass and redfish. Along with demonstrations on fish senses, a complete breakdown of all 2009 Berkley products will be featured.
“We are excited about partnering with these great retailers and bringing the Berkley experience to Florida,” said Andrew Marks, Sr. Marketing Manager. "Our Experience Trailer staff is ready to help anglers of all ages and levels learn about our products and how best to use them.”
Other exciting elements include a knot tying demonstration and challenge, a Wii fishing game – for anglers of all ages – racks filled with the latest products and big screen videos that help guests experience the adventure with Berkley. The Berkley Experience staff is on hand to help answer any questions about our innovative products. Some of the Berkley pro staff are scheduled to be on hand at the various locations* including:
- Fort Myers
- Fort Lauderdale
- Orlando
- Lake Mary
Come and check out the Berkley Experience Trailer at one of these stops.
*Locations and times may vary due to circumstances beyond our control
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The King of Flippers and Pitchers, Denny Brauer, talks about the new Ardent F500 Flippin and Pitchin reel and how it will pay dividends for him in 2009. He also talks about his relationship with Ardent. To listen click here.
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Scott Secules has taken blind side hits from the likes of Lawrence Taylor. He’s sat under center unblinkingly as menacing defensive linemen like Bruce Smith and Reggie White stood across the line, foaming at the mouth, anxious to crush him like a grape. So he must view bass fishing as a pansy’s way to spend the day, free of struggle or athleticism, right?
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 Yelas photo
Jay Yelas, longtime Skeeter Boats pro, has made the move to Ranger Boats effective the 1st of January. Steve Smith of Ranger said "we are always pleased to add someone of Jay's caliber to the Ranger family. He will be a great addition to our pro-staff." Yelas will continue to be associated with Yamaha Outboards.
You can see Jay's current list of sponsors by going to his website by clicking here. |
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Yamaha Marine is offering two great promotions for re-powering in 2009. To read more click here. |
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National Collegiate Champion, turned pro Trevor Knight talks about blending the Chatterbait and the Lake Fork Live Magic Shad making one cool reaction bait that will get you more bites. To watch his video click here.
You can get more information about Trevor at his website by clicking here.
To see other rigging options with the Lake Fork Trophy Tackle Live Magic Shad click here. |
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