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The Full Story
BASS Elite Series: Kentucky
Lake, KY
Elite Series
Event # 7 of 11
Day 1 | Day 2 |
Day 3 | Day 4
Day 1: He's Back: VanDam Takes Day 1 Lead
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 GILBERTSVILLE,
Ky. – It was a deep-water struggle for the 102 CITGO Bassmaster Elite Series
anglers on Kentucky Lake, but in the end, a proven angler and two-time CITGO
Bassmaster Classic champion came out on top.
Using his experience fishing on the Great Lakes, 38-year old Kevin VanDam of
Kalamazoo, Mich., reeled in 18 pounds, 9 ounces of bass to take the Day 1
lead of the Elite Series’ Bluegrass Brawl on Kentucky Lake. It is the first
time VanDam has led an Elite Series tournament since Day 2 of the second
Elite Series event back in March.
But while VanDam – generally considered the best power fisherman in the
world - made his rise to the top look easy on Thursday, he admitted that
bringing in his five-bass limit was tough. “It was an all-day fight to get
five bites,” said VanDam, ranked fourth on the Bassmaster Elite Series Power
Index with an average of 40 pounds, 9 ounces per tournament. VanDam boated
five keepers early and was culling by 8:30 a.m. This, he said, was key
because it helped an angler who can easily make 1,000 casts in a day calm
down and fish slower.
“This lake has the potential for a 24-pound bag,” said VanDam, who fished
deep-water ledges with big crankbaits and jigs. “Just pull up on the right
place and you’ll find it.”
VanDam’s amazing day – and his battle to win the $100,000 top prize - will
be featured on The CITGO Bassmasters on Saturday, June 24 at 10 a.m. ET on
ESPN2.
As the current BASS all-time money winner, VanDam sits just less than $4,000
away from surpassing the $2 million mark in earnings. He needs a finish of
50th or better to hit the goal.
 Three-time
CITGO Bassmaster Classic qualifier Jeff Kreit of Ardmore, Okla., was just 9
ounces behind VanDam with 18 pounds. Kreit, 37, caught 20 keepers and stuck
to deep, offshore ledges on Kentucky Lake. With 10 solid locations to run to
tomorrow, Kreit said he is confident he’ll get quality bites on Day 2. “When
I’m throwing offshore I feel like I’ve got 50 (bass) looking at me,” said
Kreit, ranked 46th on the Power Index. “The trick is getting them to bite.”
Six-time CITGO Bassmaster Classic qualifier Randy Howell was in fourth with
17-13. A self-described sight-fisherman, the Springville, Ala., pro culled
10 bass fishing deep ledges on Lake Barkley, throwing both Carolina rigs and
Gulp! Shaky Worms.
“This kind of fishing is my weakest, so I’m real excited with my day,” said
Howell. “This is the tournament I was worried about and I hope I can keep it
up tomorrow.”
Eleventh-place Kevin Wirth of Crestwood, Ky., had 16-2 and led the charge of
the Bluegrass anglers on Day 1. He had four key areas on Kentucky Lake and
fished with a variety of lures, but said timing was the most important
factor in his day.
“If you’ve got the right variables, you can catch them every cast,” said the
seven-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier. “This tournament is really going to
come down to timing.”
The top 50 Elite Series pros will move on to Day 3 following Friday’s
weigh-in and only the Elite 12 will fish Day 4 on Sunday.
Co-angler Richard Coldiron of Somerset, Ky., led his category with a total
of 12-14. Co-anglers will fish two more days and are competing for a fully
rigged Triton boat with a Mercury outboard valued at $45,000.
Elite Series anglers are vying for $673,150 in cash to the top 50 Elite pros
and valuable points towards qualifying in the Bassmaster Majors, CITGO
Bassmaster Classic and the race for the CITGO Bassmaster Angler of the Year
award. The top 25 co-anglers compete for $115,400 in cash and merchandise.
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Kevin VanDam Kalamazoo, Mich. 5 18-09 305 $1,000.00
Day 1: 5 18-09
2. Jeff Kreit Ardmore, Okla. 5 18-00 295
Day 1: 5 18-00
3. Tommy Biffle Wagoner, Okla. 5 17-15 290
Day 1: 5 17-15
4. Randy Howell Springville, Ala. 5 17-13 285
Day 1: 5 17-13
5. Kelly Jordon Mineola, Texas 5 17-12 280
Day 1: 5 17-12
6. Mike Wurm Hot Springs, Ark. 5 17-09 276
Day 1: 5 17-09
7. Jeremy Starks Charleston, W.Va. 5 17-08 272
Day 1: 5 17-08
8. Jeff Reynolds Idabel, Okla. 5 17-03 268
Day 1: 5 17-03
9. Matt Reed Madisonville, Texas 5 16-11 264
Day 1: 5 16-11
10. Timmy Horton Muscle Shoals, Ala. 5 16-09 260
Day 1: 5 16-09
11. Kevin Wirth Crestwood, Ky. 5 16-02 257
Day 1: 5 16-02
12. Brent Chapman Lake Quivira, Kan. 5 16-01 254 $1,000.00
Day 1: 5 16-01
13. Jason Quinn York, S.C. 5 15-07 251
Day 1: 5 15-07
14. Davy Hite Ninety Six, S.C. 5 15-06 248
Day 1: 5 15-06
15. Kurt Dove Warrenton, Va. 5 15-03 244
Day 1: 5 15-03
15. Dean Rojas Lake Havasu, Ariz. 5 15-03 244
Day 1: 5 15-03
17. Mike Reynolds Modesto, Calif. 5 14-14 241
Day 1: 5 14-14
18. Marty Stone Linden, N.C. 5 14-13 239
Day 1: 5 14-13
19. Denny Brauer Camdenton, Mo. 5 14-11 237
Day 1: 5 14-11
20. Rick Clunn Ava, Mo. 5 14-01 235
Day 1: 5 14-01
21. Edwin Evers Talala, Okla. 5 14-00 233
Day 1: 5 14-00
22. Greg Hackney Gonzales, La. 5 13-12 230
Day 1: 5 13-12
22. Mike McClelland Bella Vista, Ark. 5 13-12 230
Day 1: 5 13-12
24. Steve Daniel Clewiston, Fla. 5 13-09 227
Day 1: 5 13-09
25. Steve Kennedy Auburn, Ala. 5 13-08 225
Day 1: 5 13-08
26. Alton Jones Waco, Texas 5 13-06 223
Day 1: 5 13-06
27. Jimmy Mize Ben Lomond, Ark. 5 13-05 221
Day 1: 5 13-05
28. Grant Goldbeck Gaithersburg, Md. 5 13-02 219
Day 1: 5 13-02
29. Todd Faircloth Jasper, Texas 5 13-00 216
Day 1: 5 13-00
29. Brian Snowden Reeds Spring, Mo. 5 13-00 216
Day 1: 5 13-00
31. Jeff Connella Bentley, La. 5 12-13 213
Day 1: 5 12-13
32. Britt Myers Mt. Holly, N.C. 5 12-12 211
Day 1: 5 12-12
33. Paul Elias Laurel, Miss. 5 12-09 208
Day 1: 5 12-09
33. Paul Hirosky Guys Mills, Pa. 5 12-09 208
Day 1: 5 12-09
35. Skeet Reese Auburn, Calif. 5 12-08 205
Day 1: 5 12-08
36. Russ Lane Prattville, Ala. 5 12-07 201
Day 1: 5 12-07
36. Scott Rook Little Rock, Ark. 5 12-07 201
Day 1: 5 12-07
36. John Crews Salem, Va. 5 12-07 201
Day 1: 5 12-07
39. Peter E Thliveros Jacksonville, Fla. 5 12-06 197
Day 1: 5 12-06
40. Takahiro Omori Emory, Texas 5 12-05 195
Day 1: 5 12-05
41. Gerald Swindle Warrioir, Ala. 5 12-04 192
Day 1: 5 12-04
41. Yusuke Miyazaki Mineola, Texas 5 12-04 192
Day 1: 5 12-04
43. Kenyon Hill Norman, Okla. 4 12-02 189
Day 1: 4 12-02
44. Lee Bailey Boaz, Ala. 5 12-01 187
Day 1: 5 12-01
45. Chad Brauer Osage Beach, Mo. 5 12-00 185
Day 1: 5 12-00
46. Kevin Langill Terrell, N.C. 5 11-15 183
Day 1: 5 11-15
47. Ray Sedgwick Cross, S.C. 5 11-14 181
Day 1: 5 11-14
48. Vince Hurtado Waterford, Calif. 4 11-13 179
Day 1: 4 11-13
49. Morizo Shimizu Murrieta, Calif. 5 11-07 177
Day 1: 5 11-07
50. Aaron Martens Leeds, Ala. 5 11-04 175
Day 1: 5 11-04
51. Dave Wolak Warrior Run, Pa. 3 11-01 173
Day 1: 3 11-01
52. Elton Luce Jr Brookeland, Texas 5 10-15 171
Day 1: 5 10-15
53. Jared Lintner Arroyo Grande, Calif. 5 10-14 169
Day 1: 5 10-14
54. Bill Lowen North Bend, Ohio 4 10-12 167
Day 1: 4 10-12
55. Ishama Monroe Hughson, Calif. 5 10-10 164
Day 1: 5 10-10
55. Mark Tucker Saint Louis, Mo. 5 10-10 164
Day 1: 5 10-10
57. Keith Phillips Calera, Ala. 4 10-09 161
Day 1: 4 10-09
58. Pete Ponds Madison, Miss. 5 10-06 159
Day 1: 5 10-06
59. Zell Rowland Montgomery, Texas 5 10-05 157
Day 1: 5 10-05
60. Charlie Hartley Grove City, Ohio 5 10-04 155
Day 1: 5 10-04
61. Michael Iaconelli Runnemede, N.J. 5 10-03 153
Day 1: 5 10-03
62. Frank Scalish Cleveland Heights, Ohi 3 10-01 151
Day 1: 3 10-01
63. Mark Menendez Paducah, Ky. 5 10-00 149
Day 1: 5 10-00
64. Kevin Short Mayflower, Ark. 5 9-06 147
Day 1: 5 9-06
65. Ken Brodeur Niantic, Conn. 5 9-04 144
Day 1: 5 9-04
65. John Murray Phoenix, Ariz. 5 9-04 144
Day 1: 5 9-04
67. Jarrett Edwards Page, Ariz. 5 9-02 140
Day 1: 5 9-02
67. Bradley Hallman Norman, Okla. 5 9-02 140
Day 1: 5 9-02
69. Guy Eaker Cherryville, N.C. 3 9-01 137
Day 1: 3 9-01
70. Bink Desaro Boise, Idaho 4 8-15 135
Day 1: 4 8-15
71. Mark Tyler Scottsdale, Ariz. 4 8-13 133
Day 1: 4 8-13
72. Bradley Stringer Huntington, Texas 4 8-11 131
Day 1: 4 8-11
73. Bernie Schultz Gainesville, Fla. 3 8-09 129
Day 1: 3 8-09
74. Rick Morris Virginia Beach, Va. 4 8-02 127
Day 1: 4 8-02
75. Fred Roumbanis Auburn, Calif. 4 8-01 125
Day 1: 4 8-01
76. Greg Gutierrez Red Bluff, Calif. 4 7-02 123
Day 1: 4 7-02
77. Ken Cook Lawton, Okla. 3 7-01 121
Day 1: 3 7-01
78. Joe Thomas Milford, Ohio 2 6-06 119
Day 1: 2 6-06
79. Terry Scroggins Palatka, Fla. 3 6-03 117
Day 1: 3 6-03
80. Kotaro Kiriyama Moody, Ala. 3 5-12 115
Day 1: 3 5-12
81. Dave Smith Del City, Okla. 2 5-09 113
Day 1: 2 5-09
82. Darrin Schwenkbeck Silver Spring, Md. 3 5-04 111
Day 1: 3 5-04
83. Shaw E Grigsby, Jr Gainesville, Fla. 3 5-02 108
Day 1: 3 5-02
83. William Smith, Jr Somerset, Ky. 2 5-02 108
Day 1: 2 5-02
85. Mike O'Shea Westlake Village, Cali 2 5-01 105
Day 1: 2 5-01
86. Stephen Browning Hot Springs, Ark. 3 4-15 101
Day 1: 3 4-15
86. Terry Butcher Talala, Okla. 2 4-15 101
Day 1: 2 4-15
86. Doc Merkin Downers Grove, Ill. 2 4-15 101
Day 1: 2 4-15
89. David Gliebe Benton, Ky. 2 4-13 97
Day 1: 2 4-13
90. Preston Clark Palatka, Fla. 2 4-02 94
Day 1: 2 4-02
90. Jimmy Houston Cookson, Okla. 2 4-02 94
Day 1: 2 4-02
92. Charlie Youngers Geneva, Fla. 2 3-14 91
Day 1: 2 3-14
93. Chris Lane Winter Haven, Fla. 2 3-12 89
Day 1: 2 3-12
94. Jami Fralick Martin, S.D. 2 3-07 87
Day 1: 2 3-07
95. Byron Velvick Boulder City, Nev. 1 3-04 85
Day 1: 1 3-04
96. Gary Klein Weatherford, Texas 1 1-12 83
Day 1: 1 1-12
97. Rick Ash Pottstown, Pa. 0 0-00 0
Day 1: 0 0-00
97. Jon Bondy Windsor, Canada 0 0-00 0
Day 1: 0 0-00
97. Mark Rogers Naples, Fla. 0 0-00 0
Day 1: 0 0-00
97. Brooks Rogers Quitman, Texas 0 0-00 0
Day 1: 0 0-00
97. Terry Segraves Kissimmee, Fla. 0 0-00 0
Day 1: 0 0-00
97. Charlie Weyer West Hills, Calif. 0 0-00 0
Day 1: 0 0-00
97. Randy Yarnall Womelsdorf, Pa. 0 0-00 0
Day 1: 0 0-00
Day 2: VanDam's On The Move; Keeps Slim Lead
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 GILBERTSVILLE,
Ky. – Running and gunning up and down Kentucky Lake in search of scattered
fish, two-time CITGO Bassmaster Classic champion Kevin VanDam was on the
move at the CITGO Bassmaster Elite Series’ Bluegrass Brawl. The two-time
CITGO Bassmaster Classic champion maintained his slim lead on Day 2 of the
four-day tournament by bringing in 16 pounds, 11 ounces of bass for a
tournament total of 35-4. Just 5 ounces behind the Kalamazoo Kid was Randy
Howell of Alabama with 34-15.
To see if VanDam can keep up the pace, catch all the action of the Bluegrass
Brawl on The CITGO Bassmasters on Saturday, June 24 at 10 a.m. ET on ESPN2.
Moving fast and often was the name of the game for VanDam on Friday, who
said he fished several locations far from where the Elite pros launched. He
threw both crankbaits and jigs, and looked for good structure lines on
offshore ledges.
One of the most accomplished Elite pros on the water and considered the best
power fisherman in the world, VanDam is ranked fourth on the Bassmaster
Elite Series Power Index, has 60 top-10 BASS career finishes and has
finished in the money 137 out of 174 BASS tournaments.
The tournament field cut to the top 50 after Friday’s weigh-in and by making
the cut, VanDam is guaranteed winnings of at least $10,000, putting him
beyond the $2 million mark in career earnings. When he finishes, VanDam will
be the first-ever BASS pro to accomplish such a feat.
“It’s pretty cool,” he said with a smile. “It’s hard to keep up the pace, so
it’s a good thing I’m real competitive.” But with 49 other Elite pros
nipping at heels, VanDam is focused solely on the final day of the
tournament. “Like in NASCAR, the most important lap to lead is the last
one,” he said.
Howell, meanwhile, moved from fourth place to second with 17-2 for a two-day
total of 34-15. Howell keyed in on three primary ledges and one hump on Lake
Barkley. He threw a variety of lures, including a Berkley Gulp! Shaky Worm
and a 10-inch worm. He caught 10 keepers on Friday, including one 5-pounder.
“Right now, I’m just thankful to be in second,” said Howell. “Kevin is
definitely one (angler) we’re always chasing. I plan to stay in the hunt and
I’ll definitely be fishing on the final day.”
Kevin Wirth of Kentucky jockeyed his way from 11th to third place Friday,
reeling in a limit of 18 pounds, 4 ounces for a total of 34-6. Wirth also
fished several lures - but on Kentucky Lake - and looked for offshore
ledges. He felt confident in his areas, which gave up about 20 keepers.
Wirth has fished Kentucky Lake several times before and described the lake
as where he first cut his teeth in bass fishing years ago. With several
family members in tow and more on the way from Louisville, the Bluegrass
angler is hoping to represent his state well. “It really feels great, and
it’s really the first time I’ve been able to compete close to home,” said
Wirth.
Jeff Kriet of Ardmore, Okla., fell from second to eighth place after losing
a 6-pounder on his last stop of the day. Kriet caught 12-11 for a two-day
total of 30-11. But, while Kriet may have slipped, he is not discouraged.
“I’m around all kinds of fish,” said the three-time CITGO Bassmaster Classic
qualifier. “And, I still think I can win.”
The top 50 Elite pros and co-anglers advance to Day 3. More than $673,150 in
cash is awarded to the top 50 Elite pros and valuable points towards
qualifying in the Bassmaster Majors, CITGO Bassmaster Classic and the race
for the CITGO Bassmaster Angler of the Year award. Other Elite Series pros
in the Top 50 include:
California’s Morizo Shimizu, 35th on the Power Index, who jumped from 49th
to 10th on Day 2. Shimizu brought in five bass weighing 19 pounds, 13
ounces, earning the Busch Heavyweight bonus of $1,000.
Two-time CITGO Bassmaster Classic qualifier Lee Bailey of Amston, Conn., who
leapt from 44th to seventh place. What did he do differently? “I got the
bites today instead of my co-angler,” joked Bailey.
2005 CITGO Bassmaster Angler of the Year Aaron Martens, who moved from 50th
to 45th on Day 2. Martens brought in a limit of 11 pounds, 8 ounces that
brought his total to 22-12. “I’m looking for that magic spot to catch 18
pounds,” he said. “Everything I’m throwing is right. I’m just not finding
the right location.”
On the co-angler side, Kentuckian Richard Coldiron and Californian Tom Frink
tied for the top spot with 18 pounds, 2 ounces. Whichever angler emerges the
winner on Saturday will go home with the co-angler top prize, a fully rigged
Triton Boat with Mercury outboard worth $45,000. The top 25 co-anglers
compete for $115,400 in cash and merchandise.
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Kevin VanDam Kalamazoo, Mich. 10 35-04 310 $1,000.00
Day 1: 5 18-09 Day 2: 5 16-11
2. Randy Howell Springville, Ala. 10 34-15 295
Day 1: 5 17-13 Day 2: 5 17-02
3. Kevin Wirth Crestwood, Ky. 10 34-06 290
Day 1: 5 16-02 Day 2: 5 18-04
4. Russ Lane Prattville, Ala. 10 31-09 285 $1,000.00
Day 1: 5 12-07 Day 2: 5 19-02
5. Matt Reed Madisonville, Texas 10 31-07 280
Day 1: 5 16-11 Day 2: 5 14-12
6. Tommy Biffle Wagoner, Okla. 10 31-04 276
Day 1: 5 17-15 Day 2: 5 13-05
7. Lee Bailey Boaz, Ala. 10 30-12 272
Day 1: 5 12-01 Day 2: 5 18-11
8. Jeff Kriet Ardmore, Okla. 10 30-11 266
Day 1: 5 18-00 Day 2: 5 12-11
8. Mike Wurm Hot Springs, Ark. 10 30-11 266
Day 1: 5 17-09 Day 2: 5 13-02
10. Morizo Shimizu Murrieta, Calif. 10 30-10 260 $1,000.00
Day 1: 5 11-07 Day 2: 5 19-03
11. Kelly Jordon Mineola, Texas 10 30-06 257
Day 1: 5 17-12 Day 2: 5 12-10
12. John Crews Salem, Va. 10 29-06 254
Day 1: 5 12-07 Day 2: 5 16-15
13. Timmy Horton Muscle Shoals, Ala. 10 29-05 251
Day 1: 5 16-09 Day 2: 5 12-12
14. Jeff Reynolds Idabel, Okla. 10 29-00 248
Day 1: 5 17-03 Day 2: 5 11-13
15. Brent Chapman Lake Quivira, Kan. 9 28-13 245 $1,000.00
Day 1: 5 16-01 Day 2: 4 12-12
16. Gerald Swindle Warrioir, Ala. 10 28-12 243
Day 1: 5 12-04 Day 2: 5 16-08
17. Skeet Reese Auburn, Calif. 10 28-11 241
Day 1: 5 12-08 Day 2: 5 16-03
18. Jason Quinn York, S.C. 10 28-04 239
Day 1: 5 15-07 Day 2: 5 12-13
19. Jeff Connella Bentley, La. 10 27-15 237
Day 1: 5 12-13 Day 2: 5 15-02
20. Denny Brauer Camdenton, Mo. 10 27-12 235
Day 1: 5 14-11 Day 2: 5 13-01
21. Scott Rook Little Rock, Ark. 10 27-08 233
Day 1: 5 12-07 Day 2: 5 15-01
22. Peter E Thliveros Jacksonville, Fla. 10 27-01 231
Day 1: 5 12-06 Day 2: 5 14-11
23. Edwin Evers Talala, Okla. 10 26-10 229
Day 1: 5 14-00 Day 2: 5 12-10
24. Rick Clunn Ava, Mo. 10 26-05 227
Day 1: 5 14-01 Day 2: 5 12-04
25. Pete Ponds Madison, Miss. 10 26-03 225
Day 1: 5 10-06 Day 2: 5 15-13
26. John Murray Phoenix, Ariz. 10 25-15 223
Day 1: 5 9-04 Day 2: 5 16-11
27. Jimmy Mize Ben Lomond, Ark. 10 25-14 221
Day 1: 5 13-05 Day 2: 5 12-09
28. Dean Rojas Lake Havasu, Ariz. 10 25-13 218
Day 1: 5 15-03 Day 2: 5 10-10
28. Frank Scalish Cleveland Heights, Ohi 8 25-13 218
Day 1: 3 10-01 Day 2: 5 15-12
30. Steve Daniel Clewiston, Fla. 10 25-12 215
Day 1: 5 13-09 Day 2: 5 12-03
31. Bill Lowen North Bend, Ohio 9 25-11 213
Day 1: 4 10-12 Day 2: 5 14-15
32. Brian Snowden Reeds Spring, Mo. 10 25-08 211
Day 1: 5 13-00 Day 2: 5 12-08
33. Steve Kennedy Auburn, Ala. 10 25-04 209
Day 1: 5 13-08 Day 2: 5 11-12
34. Todd Faircloth Jasper, Texas 10 25-00 207
Day 1: 5 13-00 Day 2: 5 12-00
35. Kevin Langill Terrell, N.C. 10 24-15 205
Day 1: 5 11-15 Day 2: 5 13-00
36. Jeremy Starks Charleston, W.Va. 8 24-14 203
Day 1: 5 17-08 Day 2: 3 7-06
37. Jared Lintner Arroyo Grande, Calif. 10 24-10 201
Day 1: 5 10-14 Day 2: 5 13-12
38. Ishama Monroe Hughson, Calif. 10 24-07 199
Day 1: 5 10-10 Day 2: 5 13-13
39. Zell Rowland Montgomery, Texas 10 24-03 197
Day 1: 5 10-05 Day 2: 5 13-14
40. Mike McClelland Bella Vista, Ark. 10 24-00 195
Day 1: 5 13-12 Day 2: 5 10-04
41. Takahiro Omori Emory, Texas 10 23-14 193
Day 1: 5 12-05 Day 2: 5 11-09
42. Alton Jones Waco, Texas 10 23-11 191
Day 1: 5 13-06 Day 2: 5 10-05
43. Greg Hackney Gonzales, La. 10 23-08 189
Day 1: 5 13-12 Day 2: 5 9-12
44. Grant Goldbeck Gaithersburg, Md. 9 23-00 187
Day 1: 5 13-02 Day 2: 4 9-14
45. Aaron Martens Leeds, Ala. 10 22-12 185
Day 1: 5 11-04 Day 2: 5 11-08
46. Bradley Stringer Huntington, Texas 9 22-07 183
Day 1: 4 8-11 Day 2: 5 13-12
47. Keith Phillips Calera, Ala. 9 22-06 181
Day 1: 4 10-09 Day 2: 5 11-13
48. Bradley Hallman Norman, Okla. 10 21-11 178
Day 1: 5 9-02 Day 2: 5 12-09
48. Michael Iaconelli Runnemede, N.J. 10 21-11 178
Day 1: 5 10-03 Day 2: 5 11-08
50. Ray Sedgwick Cross, S.C. 10 21-10 175
Day 1: 5 11-14 Day 2: 5 9-12
51. Mark Menendez Paducah, Ky. 10 21-08 173
Day 1: 5 10-00 Day 2: 5 11-08
52. Yusuke Miyazaki Mineola, Texas 9 20-15 171
Day 1: 5 12-04 Day 2: 4 8-11
53. Chad Brauer Osage Beach, Mo. 8 20-12 169
Day 1: 5 12-00 Day 2: 3 8-12
54. Marty Stone Linden, N.C. 8 20-10 167
Day 1: 5 14-13 Day 2: 3 5-13
55. Davy Hite Ninety Six, S.C. 7 20-06 165
Day 1: 5 15-06 Day 2: 2 5-00
56. Kenyon Hill Norman, Okla. 7 20-05 163
Day 1: 4 12-02 Day 2: 3 8-03
57. Vince Hurtado Waterford, Calif. 8 20-02 161
Day 1: 4 11-13 Day 2: 4 8-05
58. Britt Myers Mt. Holly, N.C. 9 20-00 159
Day 1: 5 12-12 Day 2: 4 7-04
59. Jami Fralick Martin, S.D. 7 19-13 157
Day 1: 2 3-07 Day 2: 5 16-06
60. Greg Gutierrez Red Bluff, Calif. 9 19-12 155
Day 1: 4 7-02 Day 2: 5 12-10
61. Guy Eaker Cherryville, N.C. 8 19-10 153
Day 1: 3 9-01 Day 2: 5 10-09
62. Mark Tucker Saint Louis, Mo. 8 18-15 151
Day 1: 5 10-10 Day 2: 3 8-05
63. Ken Brodeur Niantic, Conn. 9 18-14 149
Day 1: 5 9-04 Day 2: 4 9-10
64. Charlie Hartley Grove City, Ohio 9 18-10 146
Day 1: 5 10-04 Day 2: 4 8-06
64. Dave Smith Del City, Okla. 7 18-10 146
Day 1: 2 5-09 Day 2: 5 13-01
66. Kotaro Kiriyama Moody, Ala. 8 18-08 143
Day 1: 3 5-12 Day 2: 5 12-12
67. Paul Elias Laurel, Miss. 8 18-07 141
Day 1: 5 12-09 Day 2: 3 5-14
68. Kurt Dove Warrenton, Va. 6 18-00 139
Day 1: 5 15-03 Day 2: 1 2-13
69. Paul Hirosky Guys Mills, Pa. 8 17-15 136
Day 1: 5 12-09 Day 2: 3 5-06
69. Dave Wolak Warrior Run, Pa. 6 17-15 136
Day 1: 3 11-01 Day 2: 3 6-14
71. Bernie Schultz Gainesville, Fla. 8 17-12 133
Day 1: 3 8-09 Day 2: 5 9-03
72. Darrin Schwenkbeck Silver Spring, Md. 8 17-09 131
Day 1: 3 5-04 Day 2: 5 12-05
73. Mark Tyler Scottsdale, Ariz. 7 17-04 129
Day 1: 4 8-13 Day 2: 3 8-07
74. Elton Luce Jr Brookeland, Texas 8 17-03 127
Day 1: 5 10-15 Day 2: 3 6-04
75. William Smith, Jr Somerset, Ky. 7 17-01 125
Day 1: 2 5-02 Day 2: 5 11-15
76. Mike Reynolds Modesto, Calif. 6 16-08 123
Day 1: 5 14-14 Day 2: 1 1-10
77. Doc Merkin Downers Grove, Ill. 7 15-00 121
Day 1: 2 4-15 Day 2: 5 10-01
78. Stephen Browning Hot Springs, Ark. 7 14-15 119
Day 1: 3 4-15 Day 2: 4 10-00
79. Bink Desaro Boise, Idaho 6 14-14 117
Day 1: 4 8-15 Day 2: 2 5-15
80. Joe Thomas Milford, Ohio 5 13-13 115
Day 1: 2 6-06 Day 2: 3 7-07
81. Shaw E Grigsby, Jr Gainesville, Fla. 8 13-12 113
Day 1: 3 5-02 Day 2: 5 8-10
82. David Gliebe Benton, Ky. 7 13-10 111
Day 1: 2 4-13 Day 2: 5 8-13
83. Jarrett Edwards Page, Ariz. 7 13-03 109
Day 1: 5 9-02 Day 2: 2 4-01
84. Rick Morris Virginia Beach, Va. 6 12-12 107
Day 1: 4 8-02 Day 2: 2 4-10
85. Gary Klein Weatherford, Texas 6 12-04 105
Day 1: 1 1-12 Day 2: 5 10-08
86. Jimmy Houston Cookson, Okla. 6 12-03 103
Day 1: 2 4-02 Day 2: 4 8-01
87. Kevin Short Mayflower, Ark. 6 11-13 101
Day 1: 5 9-06 Day 2: 1 2-07
88. Fred Roumbanis Auburn, Calif. 6 11-11 99
Day 1: 4 8-01 Day 2: 2 3-10
89. Charlie Youngers Geneva, Fla. 5 10-00 97
Day 1: 2 3-14 Day 2: 3 6-02
90. Ken Cook Lawton, Okla. 4 8-15 95
Day 1: 3 7-01 Day 2: 1 1-14
91. Terry Butcher Talala, Okla. 4 8-03 93
Day 1: 2 4-15 Day 2: 2 3-04
92. Terry Scroggins Palatka, Fla. 4 7-15 91
Day 1: 3 6-03 Day 2: 1 1-12
93. Jon Bondy Windsor, Canada 3 7-05 89
Day 1: 0 0-00 Day 2: 3 7-05
94. Mark Rogers Naples, Fla. 4 7-03 86
Day 1: 0 0-00 Day 2: 4 7-03
94. Mike O'Shea Westlake Village, Cali 3 7-03 86
Day 1: 2 5-01 Day 2: 1 2-02
96. Preston Clark Palatka, Fla. 3 6-04 83
Day 1: 2 4-02 Day 2: 1 2-02
97. Chris Lane Winter Haven, Fla. 3 6-01 81
Day 1: 2 3-12 Day 2: 1 2-05
98. Rick Ash Pottstown, Pa. 3 5-10 79
Day 1: 0 0-00 Day 2: 3 5-10
99. Terry Segraves Kissimmee, Fla. 3 5-01 77
Day 1: 0 0-00 Day 2: 3 5-01
100.Byron Velvick Boulder City, Nev. 2 5-00 76
Day 1: 1 3-04 Day 2: 1 1-12
101.Randy Yarnall Womelsdorf, Pa. 2 3-14 75
Day 1: 0 0-00 Day 2: 2 3-14
102.Charlie Weyer West Hills, Calif. 0 0-00 0
Day 1: 0 0-00 Day 2: 0 0-00
Day 3: VanDam Slips, Wirth Takes Lead
Back to top
 GILBERTSVILLE,
Ky. – Kentuckian Kevin Wirth overtook two-time CITGO Bassmaster Classic
champion Kevin VanDam in Day 3 of the CITGO Bassmaster Elite Series’
Bluegrass Brawl on Kentucky Lake.
Wirth took the lead Saturday with a five-fish limit that weighed 16 pounds,
15 ounces, for a tournament total of 51-5. Headed into Sunday’s final round,
Wirth had a 3-pound, 2-ounce cushion between himself and VanDam.
To see if Wirth’s cushion was enough to win the Bluegrass Brawl, tune in to
The CITGO Bassmasters, Saturday, June 24, at 10 a.m. ET on ESPN2.
Wirth’s pattern has been consistent during the tournament – he said he’s
fished deep ledges on Kentucky Lake — but he has used a variety of lures. On
Sunday, when fishing against just 11 other Elite anglers who made cut, Wirth
is confident he’ll seal the win and take home the $100,000 top prize.
“I’ve got about 200 areas that I haven’t touched,” said the seven-time CITGO
Bassmaster Classic qualifier. “They’re deep-schooling and there’s a lot of
them. It’s all about timing. If you can get (to your spots) when they’re
biting, you can catch them every cast.”
VanDam, who led the first and second days of the four-day Bluegrass Brawl,
and who is considered one of the most consistent and aggressive fishermen on
the water, faltered on the third day. His Day 3 catch of 12 pounds, 15
ounces put his three-day total at 48-3.
Fishing offshore structure lines on deep ledges, VanDam said he is throwing
crankbaits and jigs, and is moving fast and often.
VanDam said that what hurt him Saturday were windy conditions and crowded
weekend water. Several key areas he had fished the first two days had to be
passed up Saturday, and he was forced to new water.
“It’s just the nature of the sport,” said VanDam, who is ranked fourth on
the Bassmaster Elite Series Power Index. “I don’t fish a tournament now
without being followed from start to finish. It just shows how much the
sport is growing.”
Looking to the final day, VanDam was not discouraged. “I need to capitalize
on those big bites and close the door. As long as I can get a couple to bite
tomorrow, that will do it.”
With a three-day total of 46-3, Morizo Shimizu of Murrieta, Calif., moved
from 10th to third with a Day 3 catch of 15 pounds, 9 ounces. Originally
from Suita Osaka, Japan, Shimizu has never won an Elite BASS tournament.
“On this lake it’s possible,” said Shimizu with confidence. “Five pounds
doesn’t mean too much.”
Oklahoma’s Tommy Biffle was in fourth place with 45-4, just 1 ounce ahead of
California’s Skeet Reese, who finished the day in fifth place with 45-3.
Also making the cut to the Elite 12 were Jeff Kriet of Ardmore, Okla., in
sixth with 45-2, just ounces out of fifth and fourth; John Crews of Salem,
Va., in seventh (44-2); Edwin Evers of Talala, Okla., in eighth (43-14); Lee
Bailey of Boaz, Ala., in ninth (43-7); Kelly Jordan of Mineola, Texas in
10th (43-1); Mike Wurm of Hot Springs, Ark., in 11th (43-0); and Jimmy Mize
of Ben Lomand, Ark., in 12th (42-15).
On the co-angler side, 23-year-old Tom Frink of Simi Valley, Calif., won his
second Elite Series event of the season with 26 pounds, 14 ounces. For the
second time this year, Frink took home the top prize of a fully-rigged
Triton Boat and Mercury engine worth $45,000.
“This has been my dream for as long as I can remember,” said Frink.
Frink’s first co-angler win came on Santee Cooper Reservoir in the Elite
Series’ Santee Cooper Showdown presented by Motorguide. He finished second
on Oklahoma’s Grand Lake in the Elite Series’ Sooner Run. He said he plans
to fish as a co-angler in as many remaining Elite Series events as he can —
and fish the 2006 CITGO Bassmaster Northern Tour as a pro angler. The first
Northern Tour event is June 22-24 on Kentucky Lake.
The top 25 co-anglers competed for $115,400 in cash and merchandise.
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Kevin Wirth Crestwood, Ky. 15 51-05 305
Day 1: 5 16-02 Day 2: 5 18-04 Day 3: 5 16-15
2. Kevin VanDam Kalamazoo, Mich. 15 48-03 305 $1,000.00
Day 1: 5 18-09 Day 2: 5 16-11 Day 3: 5 12-15
3. Morizo Shimizu Murrieta, Calif. 15 46-03 290 $1,000.00
Day 1: 5 11-07 Day 2: 5 19-03 Day 3: 5 15-09
4. Tommy Biffle Wagoner, Okla. 15 45-04 285
Day 1: 5 17-15 Day 2: 5 13-05 Day 3: 5 14-00
5. Skeet Reese Auburn, Calif. 15 45-03 280
Day 1: 5 12-08 Day 2: 5 16-03 Day 3: 5 16-08
6. Jeff Kriet Ardmore, Okla. 15 45-02 276
Day 1: 5 18-00 Day 2: 5 12-11 Day 3: 5 14-07
7. John Crews Salem, Va. 15 44-02 272
Day 1: 5 12-07 Day 2: 5 16-15 Day 3: 5 14-12
8. Edwin Evers Talala, Okla. 15 43-14 268 $1,000.00
Day 1: 5 14-00 Day 2: 5 12-10 Day 3: 5 17-04
9. Lee Bailey Boaz, Ala. 15 43-07 264
Day 1: 5 12-01 Day 2: 5 18-11 Day 3: 5 12-11
10. Kelly Jordon Mineola, Texas 15 43-01 260
Day 1: 5 17-12 Day 2: 5 12-10 Day 3: 5 12-11
11. Mike Wurm Hot Springs, Ark. 15 43-00 257
Day 1: 5 17-09 Day 2: 5 13-02 Day 3: 5 12-05
12. Jimmy Mize Ben Lomond, Ark. 15 42-15 254
Day 1: 5 13-05 Day 2: 5 12-09 Day 3: 5 17-01
13. Scott Rook Little Rock, Ark. 15 42-08 251 $10,800.00
Day 1: 5 12-07 Day 2: 5 15-01 Day 3: 5 15-00
14. Jeff Reynolds Idabel, Okla. 15 41-10 246 $10,650.00
Day 1: 5 17-03 Day 2: 5 11-13 Day 3: 5 12-10
14. Brent Chapman Lake Quivira, Kan. 14 41-10 246 $11,650.00
Day 1: 5 16-01 Day 2: 4 12-12 Day 3: 5 12-13
16. Jeff Connella Bentley, La. 15 41-05 243 $10,500.00
Day 1: 5 12-13 Day 2: 5 15-02 Day 3: 5 13-06
17. Jason Quinn York, S.C. 15 41-01 241 $10,500.00
Day 1: 5 15-07 Day 2: 5 12-13 Day 3: 5 12-13
18. Randy Howell Springville, Ala. 13 40-13 239 $10,500.00
Day 1: 5 17-13 Day 2: 5 17-02 Day 3: 3 5-14
19. Denny Brauer Camdenton, Mo. 15 40-00 237 $10,500.00
Day 1: 5 14-11 Day 2: 5 13-01 Day 3: 5 12-04
20. Bill Lowen North Bend, Ohio 14 39-15 235 $10,500.00
Day 1: 4 10-12 Day 2: 5 14-15 Day 3: 5 14-04
21. Kevin Langill Terrell, N.C. 15 39-13 233 $10,250.00
Day 1: 5 11-15 Day 2: 5 13-00 Day 3: 5 14-14
22. Gerald Swindle Warrioir, Ala. 15 39-10 231 $10,250.00
Day 1: 5 12-04 Day 2: 5 16-08 Day 3: 5 10-14
23. John Murray Phoenix, Ariz. 15 39-08 229 $11,250.00
Day 1: 5 9-04 Day 2: 5 16-11 Day 3: 5 13-09
24. Zell Rowland Montgomery, Texas 15 39-04 227 $10,250.00
Day 1: 5 10-05 Day 2: 5 13-14 Day 3: 5 15-01
25. Pete Ponds Madison, Miss. 15 39-03 225 $10,250.00
Day 1: 5 10-06 Day 2: 5 15-13 Day 3: 5 13-00
26. Brian Snowden Reeds Spring, Mo. 15 38-11 223 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 13-00 Day 2: 5 12-08 Day 3: 5 13-03
27. Dean Rojas Lake Havasu, Ariz. 15 38-10 221 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 15-03 Day 2: 5 10-10 Day 3: 5 12-13
28. Rick Clunn Ava, Mo. 15 38-02 219 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 14-01 Day 2: 5 12-04 Day 3: 5 11-13
29. Steve Daniel Clewiston, Fla. 15 37-14 217 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 13-09 Day 2: 5 12-03 Day 3: 5 12-02
30. Matt Reed Madisonville, Texas 13 37-12 215 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 16-11 Day 2: 5 14-12 Day 3: 3 6-05
31. Peter E Thliveros Jacksonville, Fla. 15 37-09 213 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 12-06 Day 2: 5 14-11 Day 3: 5 10-08
32. Russ Lane Prattville, Ala. 13 37-07 211 $11,000.00
Day 1: 5 12-07 Day 2: 5 19-02 Day 3: 3 5-14
33. Steve Kennedy Auburn, Ala. 15 36-08 209 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 13-08 Day 2: 5 11-12 Day 3: 5 11-04
34. Jared Lintner Arroyo Grande, Calif. 15 34-13 207 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 10-14 Day 2: 5 13-12 Day 3: 5 10-03
35. Timmy Horton Muscle Shoals, Ala. 11 33-08 205 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 16-09 Day 2: 5 12-12 Day 3: 1 4-03
36. Ray Sedgwick Cross, S.C. 15 33-07 202 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 11-14 Day 2: 5 9-12 Day 3: 5 11-13
36. Keith Phillips Calera, Ala. 14 33-07 202 $10,000.00
Day 1: 4 10-09 Day 2: 5 11-13 Day 3: 5 11-01
38. Aaron Martens Leeds, Ala. 15 32-11 199 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 11-04 Day 2: 5 11-08 Day 3: 5 9-15
39. Michael Iaconelli Runnemede, N.J. 15 32-09 197 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 10-03 Day 2: 5 11-08 Day 3: 5 10-14
40. Todd Faircloth Jasper, Texas 14 32-04 195 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 13-00 Day 2: 5 12-00 Day 3: 4 7-04
41. Bradley Stringer Huntington, Texas 14 32-02 193 $10,000.00
Day 1: 4 8-11 Day 2: 5 13-12 Day 3: 5 9-11
42. Frank Scalish Cleveland Heights, Ohi 10 31-02 191 $10,000.00
Day 1: 3 10-01 Day 2: 5 15-12 Day 3: 2 5-05
43. Mike McClelland Bella Vista, Ark. 14 30-15 188 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 13-12 Day 2: 5 10-04 Day 3: 4 6-15
43. Ishama Monroe Hughson, Calif. 13 30-15 188 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 10-10 Day 2: 5 13-13 Day 3: 3 6-08
45. Greg Hackney Gonzales, La. 13 29-14 185 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 13-12 Day 2: 5 9-12 Day 3: 3 6-06
46. Jeremy Starks Charleston, W.Va. 11 29-07 183 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 17-08 Day 2: 3 7-06 Day 3: 3 4-09
47. Bradley Hallman Norman, Okla. 12 28-07 181 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 9-02 Day 2: 5 12-09 Day 3: 2 6-12
48. Grant Goldbeck Gaithersburg, Md. 11 28-00 179 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 13-02 Day 2: 4 9-14 Day 3: 2 5-00
49. Alton Jones Waco, Texas 12 27-13 177 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 13-06 Day 2: 5 10-05 Day 3: 2 4-02
50. Takahiro Omori Emory, Texas 12 27-06 175 $10,000.00
Day 1: 5 12-05 Day 2: 5 11-09 Day 3: 2 3-08
Day 4: Shimizu Battles His Way to Elite Series
Victory
Back to top
 GILBERTSVILLE,
Ky. – In Sunday’s surprise finish, Morizo Shimizu took the title in the
CITGO Bassmaster Elite Series’ Bluegrass Brawl on Kentucky Lake.
Overtaking the Kentucky favorite, Kevin Wirth, and two-time CITGO Bassmaster
Classic champion Kevin VanDam, Shimizu put together a four-day total of 66-9
to win the $100,000 top prize.
To watch Shimizu’s amazing run from 49th place to the top, tune in to the
Bluegrass Brawl on The CITGO Bassmasters, aired Saturday, June 24, at 10
a.m. ET on ESPN2.
The Bluegrass Brawl champion battled thunderstorms and rough water Sunday to
boat 20 pounds, 6 ounces of bass, building his total weight to overtake Day
3 leader Wirth by 1 pound, 11 ounces.
“I can’t feel anything right now,” said the stunned Shimizu, 36, of
Murrieta, Calif. “This is unbelievable. It’s a dream come true.”
Originally from Suita Osaka, Japan, Shimizu quietly worked his way up the
leaderboard each day of the tournament, finishing 49th on Day 1, 10th on Day
2, third on Day 3, then overpowering VanDam and Wirth for the win.
Winning the Elite Series’ Bluegrass Brawl gives Shimizu his first BASS
tournament title. His previous best finish was second in the 2005 CITGO
Bassmaster Tour on Alabama’s Lake Guntersville.
Shimizu, whose win boosted him from 35th to 21st place on the Bassmaster
Elite Series Power Index, said he fished a variety of lures all week,
including jigs, crankbaits and Texas-rigged worms. He said he stuck to one
area of the lake that ranges in depth from 10 to 16 feet.
Shimizu earned the $1,000 Busch Heavyweight Bag of the day bonus with
Sunday’s catch of 20-6; included was a 5-pound, 7-ounce fish that took the
$1,000 Purolator Big Bass bounty.
Second-place finisher Wirth of Crestwood, Ky., who now ranks eighth on the
Bassmaster Elite Series Power Index, brought in a limit on Day 4 that
weighed 13 pounds, 9 ounces for a four-day total of 64-14.
Wirth said he keyed in on deep ledges on four main areas of the lake. His
lures included a ¾-ounce chartreuse-and-white spinnerbait, green-pumpkin
jigs, and a 10-inch Berkley PowerBait Original Power Worm. Wirth said
Sunday’s rough weather and high waves prevented him from working his
first-choice spot.
“I was fishing the middle of the river, and that’s where the water was the
roughest,” said the seven-time CITGO Bassmaster Classic qualifier. “Once the
wind laid down, I caught seven keepers.”
After leading Day 1 and Day 2, then dropping to second on Day 3, VanDam
finished third with 63 pounds, 8 ounces. Ranked third on the Bassmaster
Elite Series Power Index with an average weight of 42 pounds, 14 ounces,
VanDam brought five fish to the scales for a Day 4 weight of 15 pounds, 5
ounces.
“This has been a brutally rough and tough day,” said VanDam.
The next stop on the CITGO Bassmaster Elite Series tournament trail is the
Empire Chase on Oneida Lake in Syracuse, N.Y., July 6-9.
Angler Hometown No./lbs-oz Pts Total $$$
1. Morizo Shimizu Murrieta, Calif. 20 66-09 305 $103,000.00
Day 1: 5 11-07 Day 2: 5 19-03 Day 3: 5 15-09 Day 4: 5 20-06
2. Kevin Wirth Crestwood, Ky. 20 64-14 300 $30,000.00
Day 1: 5 16-02 Day 2: 5 18-04 Day 3: 5 16-15 Day 4: 5 13-09
3. Kevin VanDam Kalamazoo, Mich. 20 63-08 300 $26,000.00
Day 1: 5 18-09 Day 2: 5 16-11 Day 3: 5 12-15 Day 4: 5 15-05
4. Skeet Reese Auburn, Calif. 20 61-11 285 $18,000.00
Day 1: 5 12-08 Day 2: 5 16-03 Day 3: 5 16-08 Day 4: 5 16-08
5. John Crews Salem, Va. 20 61-01 280 $17,000.00
Day 1: 5 12-07 Day 2: 5 16-15 Day 3: 5 14-12 Day 4: 5 16-15
6. Jeff Kriet Ardmore, Okla. 20 60-08 276 $15,500.00
Day 1: 5 18-00 Day 2: 5 12-11 Day 3: 5 14-07 Day 4: 5 15-06
7. Lee Bailey Boaz, Ala. 20 60-07 272 $15,000.00
Day 1: 5 12-01 Day 2: 5 18-11 Day 3: 5 12-11 Day 4: 5 17-00
8. Edwin Evers Talala, Okla. 20 56-07 268 $15,500.00
Day 1: 5 14-00 Day 2: 5 12-10 Day 3: 5 17-04 Day 4: 5 12-09
9. Mike Wurm Hot Springs, Ark. 20 55-15 264 $14,000.00
Day 1: 5 17-09 Day 2: 5 13-02 Day 3: 5 12-05 Day 4: 5 12-15
10. Tommy Biffle Wagoner, Okla. 18 52-11 260 $13,500.00
Day 1: 5 17-15 Day 2: 5 13-05 Day 3: 5 14-00 Day 4: 3 7-07
11. Kelly Jordon Mineola, Texas 19 52-00 257 $12,500.00
Day 1: 5 17-12 Day 2: 5 12-10 Day 3: 5 12-11 Day 4: 4 8-15
12. Jimmy Mize Ben Lomond, Ark. 17 46-09 254 $12,300.00
Day 1: 5 13-05 Day 2: 5 12-09 Day 3: 5 17-01 Day 4: 2 3-10
Articles and images from BASS
Compiled by Brandon Shook
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