The Full Story

BASS Elite Series: Grand Lake, OK

Elite Series Event # 6 of 11

Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4

Day 1: Arkansas Angler Feeling at Home on Day 1

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GROVE, Okla. – Arkansan Mike McClelland doesn’t call Grand Lake his home waters, but the 38-year-old CITGO Bassmaster Elite Series pro has fished it nearly 60 times. As he hauled in an impressive 21 pounds, 9 ounces of bass during Day 1 of the Bassmaster Elite Series’ Sooner Run, McClelland admitted that he knows the lake well, knows how to fish it, and turned that experience to his favor.

Currently ranked 33rd on the Bassmaster Elite Series Power Index, McClelland has his eye on the $100,000 tournament top prize and the possibility of being named Sooner Run champion.

“I learned a lot about fishing on this lake,” said McClelland. “I learned how to deep crankbait and flip a jig. I know this lake well, and I know how to fish it.”

Trailing behind by just two ounces was Timmy Horton of Muscle Shoals, Ala., with a 21-pound, 7-ounce limit. Included in his sack was a 7-pound, 10-ounce Purolator Big Bass, earning Horton an additional $1,000.

Fans of the Elite Series, featuring 104 of the world’s top professional BASS anglers, can tune in to watch The Sooner Run on The CITGO Bassmasters, aired Saturday, June 17 at 12:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2.

McClelland, who won the CITGO Bassmaster Open Championship in 2005, said he ran from one end of the lake to the other looking for specific brush and rock piles, fishing jigs slowly along the bottom. The overcast skies and light breeze were ideal conditions to get the three-time CITGO Bassmaster Classic qualifier dialed in.

Fishing a BASS tournament for the first time on Grand Lake, Horton nipped at McClelland’s heels, catching 15 to 20 keeper bites for the day, he said. Ranked 35th on the Power Index, Horton fished two to three stretches of off-shore structure that he predicted will hold out through the tournament.

“The key is staying with it and fishing with a lot of confidence,” said Horton. “Right now it’s like finding a needle in a haystack, but when you do find them, you find plenty.”

Ken Cook of Meers, Okla. led the Okies of the Elite Series, finishing the day in eighth place with a five-fish limit of 17-11. Cook ran an off-shore structure pattern, keying in on rock piles.

“I had to fish slower than I expected to,” said the 1991 CITGO Bassmaster Classic champion. “The fish just didn’t seem as active as in practice, and I really thought I’d catch twice as many keepers.” But Cook was not discouraged. He said he has a dozen more places to visit on Day 2.

Rounding out the top five were Texan Matt Reed in third with 19-6; Ohio’s Joe Thomas in fourth with 19 pounds; and Paul Elias of Mississippi with 18-13.

Nearly $675,000 in cash will be awarded to the top 50 Elite pros, as well as 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 more than $115,000 in cash and merchandise.

On the co-angler side, Oklahoman Mike Lewis led with 14 pounds, 4 ounces. Also in the co-angler division, Mary Delgado, fiancée of BassCenter analyst and Elite Series pro Byron Velvick, brought in a three-fish limit of 6-7, finishing 31st for the day. If Delgado puts three more keepers in the livewell tomorrow, she’ll be in contention for winning the co-angler top prize, a fully rigged Triton Boat with Mercury outboard worth $45,000. Velvick is currently in 93rd with 9 pounds.



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



1. Mike McClelland Bella Vista, Ark. 5 21-09 305 $1,000.00

Day 1: 5 21-09

2. Timmy Horton Muscle Shoals, Ala. 5 21-07 295 $1,000.00

Day 1: 5 21-07

3. Matt Reed Madisonville, Texas 5 19-06 290

Day 1: 5 19-06

4. Joe Thomas Milford, Ohio 5 19-00 285

Day 1: 5 19-00

5. Paul Elias Laurel, Miss. 5 18-13 280

Day 1: 5 18-13

6. Chad Brauer Osage Beach, Mo. 5 18-12 276

Day 1: 5 18-12

7. Michael Iaconelli Runnemede, N.J. 5 18-09 272

Day 1: 5 18-09

8. Ken Cook Lawton, Okla. 5 17-11 268

Day 1: 5 17-11

9. Aaron Martens Leeds, Ala. 5 17-01 264

Day 1: 5 17-01

10. Jason Quinn York, S.C. 5 16-15 258

Day 1: 5 16-15

10. Dean Rojas Lake Havasu, Ariz. 5 16-15 258

Day 1: 5 16-15

12. Greg Gutierrez Red Bluff, Calif. 5 16-12 254

Day 1: 5 16-12

13. Edwin Evers Talala, Okla. 5 16-10 251

Day 1: 5 16-10

14. Bradley Hallman Norman, Okla. 5 16-07 248

Day 1: 5 16-07

15. Jami Fralick Martin, S.D. 5 16-04 245

Day 1: 5 16-04

16. Rick Clunn Ava, Mo. 5 15-13 243

Day 1: 5 15-13

17. Brent Chapman Lake Quivira, Kan. 5 15-12 240

Day 1: 5 15-12

17. Peter E Thliveros Jacksonville, Fla. 5 15-12 240

Day 1: 5 15-12

19. Brian Snowden Reeds Spring, Mo. 5 15-10 237

Day 1: 5 15-10

20. Steve Kennedy Auburn, Ala. 5 15-06 235

Day 1: 5 15-06

21. Dave Smith Del City, Okla. 5 15-05 233

Day 1: 5 15-05

22. Jon Bondy Windsor, Canada 5 15-02 231

Day 1: 5 15-02

23. Terry Segraves Kissimmee, Fla. 5 15-01 229

Day 1: 5 15-01

24. Jeff Connella Bentley, La. 5 14-15 224

Day 1: 5 14-15

24. Russ Lane Prattville, Ala. 5 14-15 224

Day 1: 5 14-15

24. John Murray Phoenix, Ariz. 5 14-15 224

Day 1: 5 14-15

24. Kevin Wirth Crestwood, Ky. 5 14-15 224

Day 1: 5 14-15

28. Davy Hite Ninety Six, S.C. 5 14-12 219

Day 1: 5 14-12

29. Takahiro Omori Emory, Texas 5 14-10 217

Day 1: 5 14-10

30. Greg Hackney Gonzales, La. 5 14-07 214

Day 1: 5 14-07

30. Keith Phillips Calera, Ala. 5 14-07 214

Day 1: 5 14-07

32. Scott Rook Little Rock, Ark. 5 14-06 211

Day 1: 5 14-06

33. Terry Butcher Talala, Okla. 5 14-03 208

Day 1: 5 14-03

33. Jeff Kriet Ardmore, Okla. 5 14-03 208

Day 1: 5 14-03

35. Alton Jones Waco, Texas 5 13-15 205

Day 1: 5 13-15

36. Bink Desaro Boise, Idaho 5 13-14 203

Day 1: 5 13-14

37. Jimmy Mize Ben Lomond, Ark. 5 13-12 201

Day 1: 5 13-12

38. Shaw E Grigsby, Jr Gainesville, Fla. 5 13-09 198

Day 1: 5 13-09

38. Darrin Schwenkbeck Silver Spring, Md. 5 13-09 198

Day 1: 5 13-09

40. Frank Scalish Cleveland Heights, Ohi 5 13-08 195

Day 1: 5 13-08

41. Pete Ponds Madison, Miss. 5 13-06 192

Day 1: 5 13-06

41. William Smith, Jr Somerset, Ky. 5 13-06 192

Day 1: 5 13-06

43. Gerald Swindle Warrioir, Ala. 5 13-03 189

Day 1: 5 13-03

44. Mark Tyler Scottsdale, Ariz. 5 13-02 187

Day 1: 5 13-02

45. Mike Wurm Hot Springs, Ark. 5 13-00 185

Day 1: 5 13-00

46. Kenyon Hill Norman, Okla. 5 12-14 182

Day 1: 5 12-14

46. Gary Klein Weatherford, Texas 5 12-14 182

Day 1: 5 12-14

48. Charlie Youngers Geneva, Fla. 5 12-11 179

Day 1: 5 12-11

49. Kevin VanDam Kalamazoo, Mich. 5 12-10 177

Day 1: 5 12-10

50. Bill Lowen North Bend, Ohio 5 12-07 175

Day 1: 5 12-07

51. Randy Howell Springville, Ala. 5 12-04 173

Day 1: 5 12-04

52. Morizo Shimizu Murrieta, Calif. 5 12-01 171

Day 1: 5 12-01

53. Jimmy Houston Cookson, Okla. 5 11-14 168

Day 1: 5 11-14

53. Vince Hurtado Waterford, Calif. 5 11-14 168

Day 1: 5 11-14

55. Steve Daniel Clewiston, Fla. 5 11-13 165

Day 1: 5 11-13

56. Chris Lane Winter Haven, Fla. 5 11-12 163

Day 1: 5 11-12

57. Preston Clark Palatka, Fla. 5 11-11 161

Day 1: 5 11-11

58. John Crews Salem, Va. 5 11-09 159

Day 1: 5 11-09

59. Kurt Dove Warrenton, Va. 5 11-08 156

Day 1: 5 11-08

59. Bernie Schultz Gainesville, Fla. 5 11-08 156

Day 1: 5 11-08

61. Tommy Biffle Wagoner, Okla. 5 11-05 151

Day 1: 5 11-05

61. Todd Faircloth Jasper, Texas 5 11-05 151

Day 1: 5 11-05

61. Terry Scroggins Palatka, Fla. 5 11-05 151

Day 1: 5 11-05

64. Elton Luce Jr Brookeland, Texas 5 11-04 146

Day 1: 5 11-04

64. Mark Tucker Saint Louis, Mo. 5 11-04 146

Day 1: 5 11-04

66. Jeremy Starks Charleston, W.Va. 5 11-01 143

Day 1: 5 11-01

67. Dave Wolak Warrior Run, Pa. 5 11-00 141

Day 1: 5 11-00

68. Jeff Reynolds Idabel, Okla. 5 10-15 139

Day 1: 5 10-15

69. Ray Sedgwick Cross, S.C. 5 10-13 137

Day 1: 5 10-13

70. Marty Stone Linden, N.C. 5 10-11 135

Day 1: 5 10-11

71. Yusuke Miyazaki Mineola, Texas 5 10-10 131

Day 1: 5 10-10

71. Ken Brodeur Niantic, Conn. 5 10-10 131

Day 1: 5 10-10

71. Mike Reynolds Modesto, Calif. 5 10-10 131

Day 1: 5 10-10

74. Kevin Langill Terrell, N.C. 5 10-09 127

Day 1: 5 10-09

75. Denny Brauer Camdenton, Mo. 5 10-08 124

Day 1: 5 10-08

75. Brooks Rogers Quitman, Texas 5 10-08 124

Day 1: 5 10-08

77. Lee Bailey Boaz, Ala. 5 10-07 121

Day 1: 5 10-07

78. Skeet Reese Auburn, Calif. 5 10-06 117

Day 1: 5 10-06

78. David Gliebe Benton, Ky. 5 10-06 117

Day 1: 5 10-06

78. Kotaro Kiriyama Moody, Ala. 4 10-06 117

Day 1: 4 10-06

81. Charlie Hartley Grove City, Ohio 5 10-05 113

Day 1: 5 10-05

82. Fred Roumbanis Auburn, Calif. 5 10-03 111

Day 1: 5 10-03

83. Zell Rowland Montgomery, Texas 5 10-02 109

Day 1: 5 10-02

84. Kelly Jordon Mineola, Texas 5 10-01 107

Day 1: 5 10-01

85. Stephen Browning Hot Springs, Ark. 5 9-15 103

Day 1: 5 9-15

85. Guy Eaker Cherryville, N.C. 5 9-15 103

Day 1: 5 9-15

85. Paul Hirosky Guys Mills, Pa. 5 9-15 103

Day 1: 5 9-15

88. Mark Menendez Paducah, Ky. 5 9-14 99

Day 1: 5 9-14

89. Charlie Weyer West Hills, Calif. 5 9-12 97

Day 1: 5 9-12

90. Rick Ash Pottstown, Pa. 5 9-09 95

Day 1: 5 9-09

91. Ishama Monroe Hughson, Calif. 5 9-07 93

Day 1: 5 9-07

92. Jarrett Edwards Page, Ariz. 5 9-02 91

Day 1: 5 9-02

93. Byron Velvick Boulder City, Nev. 4 9-00 89

Day 1: 4 9-00

94. Britt Myers Mt. Holly, N.C. 5 8-00 87

Day 1: 5 8-00

95. Doc Merkin Downers Grove, Ill. 5 7-15 85

Day 1: 5 7-15

96. Randy Yarnall Womelsdorf, Pa. 3 7-08 83

Day 1: 3 7-08

97. Rick Morris Virgina Beach, Va. 4 7-04 81

Day 1: 4 7-04

98. Jared Lintner Arroyo Grande, Calif. 3 6-13 79

Day 1: 3 6-13

99. Kevin Short Mayflower, Ark. 3 5-13 77

Day 1: 3 5-13

100.Bradley Stringer Huntington, Texas 2 4-03 76

Day 1: 2 4-03

101.Grant Goldbeck Gaithersburg, Md. 5 3-11 75

Day 1: 5 3-11

102.Mike O'Shea Westlake Village, Cali 2 3-07 74

Day 1: 2 3-07

103.Mark Rogers Naples, Fla. 4 0-00 73

Day 1: 4 0-00

 

Day 2: McClelland Dominates Day 2

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GROVE, Okla. – After a long day of competitive fishing, CITGO Bassmaster Elite Series pro Mike McClelland was exhausted and sunburned. Fighting off fatigue, the angler made a last-minute stop on the way back to check-in for one final cast. That decision netted him a 7-pound, 7-ounce largemouth, and cemented his Day 2 lead of the Elite Series’ Sooner Run on Grand Lake. McClelland led the pack for the second consecutive day with his total weight of 46-12, more than 12 pounds ahead of second-place angler Dean Rojas of Arizona, who had 34-11.

Having fished the lake nearly 60 times before, McClelland, of Bella Vista, Ark., doesn’t consider Grand Lake his home turf, but definitely feels like he has an edge over his competition. A three-time winner on the BASS tournament trail, McClelland now is positioning himself to add an Elite Series win to his list of accomplishments – potentially the largest of his career.

Fans can watch McClelland’s last-minute lunker and the battle for the $100,000 top prize on The CITGO Bassmasters aired Saturday, June 17 at 12:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2.

“It feels absolutely incredible to still be in the lead,” said McClelland. “Slowing down is the biggest key for me … picking a few good areas and fishing them thoroughly.”

McClelland wasn’t very confident earlier in the day. At noontime, the 33rd-ranked Bassmaster Elite Series Power Index angler had just a few keeper fish and it wasn’t until 3 p.m. that the late-afternoon bite turned on and he put two solid bass in the boat.

McClelland found his final bass at a place that had worked for him in the past. It delivered the biggest of the tournament, the Purolator Big Bass, and helped him earn the Busch Heavyweight Bag of the Day. For most of the day, he searched for offshore structure, specifically brush and rock piles, and fished jigs slowly along the bottom.

Five-time Classic qualifier and two-time BASS winner Rojas, meanwhile, reeled in a limit of 17 pounds, 12 ounces and said he keyed in on big fish in water no deeper than 10 feet. “I’m trying to be consistent,” said Rojas, the fourth-ranked angler on the Power Index and fifth-ranked in the CITGO Bassmaster Angler of the Year standings. “I’m trying to key in on fish that get me into the finals and in the cut.”

Ken Cook of Meers, Okla., continued to lead the charge of the Okies, bringing in a five-fish limit of 15-13 for a two-day total of 33-8, good enough for fifth place.

The top 50 Elite pros and co-anglers advance to Day 3. More than $673,000 is awarded to the top 50 pros as well as valuable points towards qualifying in the Bassmaster Majors, CITGO Bassmaster Classic and the race for the Angler of the Year award. Other Elite pros who made the top 50 cut include:

Kentuckian Kevin Wirth in 10th place. Wirth brought in 17-11 ounces for a two-day total of 32-10. “I’m constantly looking for new water,” said Wirth. “I know within a couple casts if it’s got what I need.”

Bassmaster Memorial winner Peter Thliveros, fresh off his $250,000 victory in Texas, in 22nd place. Thliveros brought in 14-5 on Day 2 for a total of 30-1. “This lake is really showing itself as a good fishery and it’s just going to continue to improve,” he said. “I’m really looking ahead to getting points towards Angler of the Year and getting into the Classic.”

Cleveland Heights, Ohio resident Frank Scalish in 32nd place. Scalish brought in 14-11 for a total of 28-3. “This is my kind of tournament, offshore is the way to go. It’s what I do best and where I’m most comfortable.”

On the co-angler side, Missouri angler Scott Campbell led the way with a two-day total of 20 pounds. If he can keep his lead, he’ll receive the co-angler top prize, a fully rigged Triton Boat with Mercury outboard worth $45,000.



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



1. Mike McClelland Bella Vista, Ark. 10 46-12 310 $3,000.00

Day 1: 5 21-09 Day 2: 5 25-03

2. Dean Rojas Lake Havasu, Ariz. 10 34-11 295

Day 1: 5 16-15 Day 2: 5 17-12

3. Jami Fralick Martin, S.D. 10 34-01 290

Day 1: 5 16-04 Day 2: 5 17-13

4. Matt Reed Madisonville, Texas 10 33-13 285

Day 1: 5 19-06 Day 2: 5 14-07

5. Ken Cook Lawton, Okla. 10 33-08 280

Day 1: 5 17-11 Day 2: 5 15-13

6. Paul Elias Laurel, Miss. 10 33-07 274

Day 1: 5 18-13 Day 2: 5 14-10

6. Jeff Connella Bentley, La. 10 33-07 274

Day 1: 5 14-15 Day 2: 5 18-08

8. Michael Iaconelli Runnemede, N.J. 10 33-05 268

Day 1: 5 18-09 Day 2: 5 14-12

9. Edwin Evers Talala, Okla. 10 33-00 264

Day 1: 5 16-10 Day 2: 5 16-06

10. Kevin Wirth Crestwood, Ky. 10 32-10 260

Day 1: 5 14-15 Day 2: 5 17-11

11. Greg Gutierrez Red Bluff, Calif. 10 32-07 257

Day 1: 5 16-12 Day 2: 5 15-11

12. Aaron Martens Leeds, Ala. 10 32-03 254

Day 1: 5 17-01 Day 2: 5 15-02

13. Timmy Horton Muscle Shoals, Ala. 10 32-02 250 $1,000.00

Day 1: 5 21-07 Day 2: 5 10-11

13. Bradley Hallman Norman, Okla. 10 32-02 250

Day 1: 5 16-07 Day 2: 5 15-11

15. Joe Thomas Milford, Ohio 10 31-13 245

Day 1: 5 19-00 Day 2: 5 12-13

16. Davy Hite Ninety Six, S.C. 10 31-07 243

Day 1: 5 14-12 Day 2: 5 16-11

17. Chad Brauer Osage Beach, Mo. 10 31-06 241

Day 1: 5 18-12 Day 2: 5 12-10

18. Alton Jones Waco, Texas 10 30-11 239

Day 1: 5 13-15 Day 2: 5 16-12

19. Brian Snowden Reeds Spring, Mo. 10 30-10 237

Day 1: 5 15-10 Day 2: 5 15-00

20. Gary Klein Weatherford, Texas 10 30-04 235

Day 1: 5 12-14 Day 2: 5 17-06

21. Bill Lowen North Bend, Ohio 10 30-03 233

Day 1: 5 12-07 Day 2: 5 17-12

22. Peter E Thliveros Jacksonville, Fla. 10 30-01 231

Day 1: 5 15-12 Day 2: 5 14-05

23. John Murray Phoenix, Ariz. 10 29-09 229

Day 1: 5 14-15 Day 2: 5 14-10

24. Morizo Shimizu Murrieta, Calif. 10 29-07 227

Day 1: 5 12-01 Day 2: 5 17-06

25. Steve Kennedy Auburn, Ala. 10 29-05 225

Day 1: 5 15-06 Day 2: 5 13-15

26. Terry Segraves Kissimmee, Fla. 10 29-00 223

Day 1: 5 15-01 Day 2: 5 13-15

27. Keith Phillips Calera, Ala. 10 28-15 221

Day 1: 5 14-07 Day 2: 5 14-08

28. Russ Lane Prattville, Ala. 10 28-11 219

Day 1: 5 14-15 Day 2: 5 13-12

29. Dave Smith Del City, Okla. 10 28-08 216

Day 1: 5 15-05 Day 2: 5 13-03

29. Jeff Kriet Ardmore, Okla. 10 28-08 216

Day 1: 5 14-03 Day 2: 5 14-05

31. John Crews Salem, Va. 10 28-04 213

Day 1: 5 11-09 Day 2: 5 16-11

32. Frank Scalish Cleveland Heights, Ohi 10 28-03 211

Day 1: 5 13-08 Day 2: 5 14-11

33. Takahiro Omori Emory, Texas 10 27-15 209

Day 1: 5 14-10 Day 2: 5 13-05

34. Kenyon Hill Norman, Okla. 10 27-14 207

Day 1: 5 12-14 Day 2: 5 15-00

35. Brent Chapman Lake Quivira, Kan. 10 27-03 205

Day 1: 5 15-12 Day 2: 5 11-07

36. Jon Bondy Windsor, Canada 10 26-13 203

Day 1: 5 15-02 Day 2: 5 11-11

37. Jason Quinn York, S.C. 10 26-12 201

Day 1: 5 16-15 Day 2: 5 9-13

38. Greg Hackney Gonzales, La. 10 26-08 199

Day 1: 5 14-07 Day 2: 5 12-01

39. Tommy Biffle Wagoner, Okla. 10 26-01 197

Day 1: 5 11-05 Day 2: 5 14-12

40. Terry Scroggins Palatka, Fla. 10 25-15 195

Day 1: 5 11-05 Day 2: 5 14-10

41. Mike Wurm Hot Springs, Ark. 10 25-12 193

Day 1: 5 13-00 Day 2: 5 12-12

42. Mark Tucker Saint Louis, Mo. 10 25-10 191

Day 1: 5 11-04 Day 2: 5 14-06

43. Kevin VanDam Kalamazoo, Mich. 10 25-09 189

Day 1: 5 12-10 Day 2: 5 12-15

44. Rick Clunn Ava, Mo. 10 25-08 187

Day 1: 5 15-13 Day 2: 5 9-11

45. Darrin Schwenkbeck Silver Spring, Md. 10 25-03 184

Day 1: 5 13-09 Day 2: 5 11-10

45. Chris Lane Winter Haven, Fla. 10 25-03 184

Day 1: 5 11-12 Day 2: 5 13-07

47. David Gliebe Benton, Ky. 10 25-02 180

Day 1: 5 10-06 Day 2: 5 14-12

47. Randy Howell Springville, Ala. 10 25-02 180

Day 1: 5 12-04 Day 2: 5 12-14

49. Charlie Youngers Geneva, Fla. 10 24-15 177

Day 1: 5 12-11 Day 2: 5 12-04

50. Kotaro Kiriyama Moody, Ala. 9 24-09 175

Day 1: 4 10-06 Day 2: 5 14-03

51. Mark Tyler Scottsdale, Ariz. 10 24-06 173

Day 1: 5 13-02 Day 2: 5 11-04

52. Scott Rook Little Rock, Ark. 10 24-05 170

Day 1: 5 14-06 Day 2: 5 9-15

52. Stephen Browning Hot Springs, Ark. 10 24-05 170

Day 1: 5 9-15 Day 2: 5 14-06

54. Terry Butcher Talala, Okla. 10 24-03 166

Day 1: 5 14-03 Day 2: 5 10-00

54. Bernie Schultz Gainesville, Fla. 10 24-03 166

Day 1: 5 11-08 Day 2: 5 12-11

56. Bink Desaro Boise, Idaho 10 24-01 163

Day 1: 5 13-14 Day 2: 5 10-03

57. Zell Rowland Montgomery, Texas 10 24-00 161

Day 1: 5 10-02 Day 2: 5 13-14

58. Jimmy Mize Ben Lomond, Ark. 10 23-14 159

Day 1: 5 13-12 Day 2: 5 10-02

59. Kurt Dove Warrenton, Va. 10 23-09 157

Day 1: 5 11-08 Day 2: 5 12-01

60. Steve Daniel Clewiston, Fla. 10 23-07 155

Day 1: 5 11-13 Day 2: 5 11-10

61. Gerald Swindle Warrioir, Ala. 10 23-05 153

Day 1: 5 13-03 Day 2: 5 10-02

62. Fred Roumbanis Auburn, Calif. 10 22-11 151

Day 1: 5 10-03 Day 2: 5 12-08

63. Jeremy Starks Charleston, W.Va. 10 22-08 149

Day 1: 5 11-01 Day 2: 5 11-07

64. Pete Ponds Madison, Miss. 10 22-06 147

Day 1: 5 13-06 Day 2: 5 9-00

65. Charlie Weyer West Hills, Calif. 10 22-05 145

Day 1: 5 9-12 Day 2: 5 12-09

66. Charlie Hartley Grove City, Ohio 10 21-14 143

Day 1: 5 10-05 Day 2: 5 11-09

67. Kelly Jordon Mineola, Texas 10 21-12 141

Day 1: 5 10-01 Day 2: 5 11-11

68. Preston Clark Palatka, Fla. 10 21-10 138

Day 1: 5 11-11 Day 2: 5 9-15

68. Brooks Rogers Quitman, Texas 10 21-10 138

Day 1: 5 10-08 Day 2: 5 11-02

70. Skeet Reese Auburn, Calif. 10 21-05 135

Day 1: 5 10-06 Day 2: 5 10-15

71. Mark Menendez Paducah, Ky. 10 21-02 133

Day 1: 5 9-14 Day 2: 5 11-04

72. Ray Sedgwick Cross, S.C. 10 20-11 131

Day 1: 5 10-13 Day 2: 5 9-14

73. Denny Brauer Camdenton, Mo. 10 20-10 129

Day 1: 5 10-08 Day 2: 5 10-02

74. Mike Reynolds Modesto, Calif. 10 20-08 127

Day 1: 5 10-10 Day 2: 5 9-14

75. Shaw E Grigsby, Jr Gainesville, Fla. 9 20-05 125

Day 1: 5 13-09 Day 2: 4 6-12

76. Rick Ash Pottstown, Pa. 10 20-03 123

Day 1: 5 9-09 Day 2: 5 10-10

77. Lee Bailey Boaz, Ala. 10 19-14 121

Day 1: 5 10-07 Day 2: 5 9-07

78. Ishama Monroe Hughson, Calif. 10 19-13 119

Day 1: 5 9-07 Day 2: 5 10-06

79. Kevin Langill Terrell, N.C. 9 19-08 117

Day 1: 5 10-09 Day 2: 4 8-15

80. Dave Wolak Warrior Run, Pa. 10 19-05 115

Day 1: 5 11-00 Day 2: 5 8-05

81. Paul Hirosky Guys Mills, Pa. 10 19-00 113

Day 1: 5 9-15 Day 2: 5 9-01

82. Yusuke Miyazaki Mineola, Texas 10 18-10 110

Day 1: 5 10-10 Day 2: 5 8-00

82. Jared Lintner Arroyo Grande, Calif. 8 18-10 110

Day 1: 3 6-13 Day 2: 5 11-13

84. Vince Hurtado Waterford, Calif. 8 18-08 107

Day 1: 5 11-14 Day 2: 3 6-10

85. Guy Eaker Cherryville, N.C. 10 17-13 105

Day 1: 5 9-15 Day 2: 5 7-14

86. Elton Luce Jr Brookeland, Texas 7 17-09 103

Day 1: 5 11-04 Day 2: 2 6-05

87. Jarrett Edwards Page, Ariz. 10 17-02 101

Day 1: 5 9-02 Day 2: 5 8-00

88. Randy Yarnall Womelsdorf, Pa. 8 16-15 99

Day 1: 3 7-08 Day 2: 5 9-07

89. Ken Brodeur Niantic, Conn. 8 16-10 97

Day 1: 5 10-10 Day 2: 3 6-00

90. Rick Morris Virgina Beach, Va. 9 16-06 93

Day 1: 4 7-04 Day 2: 5 9-02

90. William Smith, Jr Somerset, Ky. 8 16-06 93

Day 1: 5 13-06 Day 2: 3 3-00

90. Jimmy Houston Cookson, Okla. 8 16-06 93

Day 1: 5 11-14 Day 2: 3 4-08

93. Doc Merkin Downers Grove, Ill. 10 16-01 89

Day 1: 5 7-15 Day 2: 5 8-02

94. Britt Myers Mt. Holly, N.C. 10 15-15 87

Day 1: 5 8-00 Day 2: 5 7-15

95. Byron Velvick Boulder City, Nev. 6 15-11 85

Day 1: 4 9-00 Day 2: 2 6-11

96. Bradley Stringer Huntington, Texas 7 14-14 83

Day 1: 2 4-03 Day 2: 5 10-11

97. Jeff Reynolds Idabel, Okla. 7 13-14 80

Day 1: 5 10-15 Day 2: 2 2-15

97. Marty Stone Linden, N.C. 7 13-14 80

Day 1: 5 10-11 Day 2: 2 3-03

99. Kevin Short Mayflower, Ark. 7 13-09 77

Day 1: 3 5-13 Day 2: 4 7-12

100.Mark Rogers Naples, Fla. 9 12-07 76

Day 1: 4 0-00 Day 2: 5 12-07

101.Todd Faircloth Jasper, Texas 5 11-05 75

Day 1: 5 11-05 Day 2: 0 0-00

102.Mike O'Shea Westlake Village, Cali 4 7-09 74

Day 1: 2 3-07 Day 2: 2 4-02

103.Grant Goldbeck Gaithersburg, Md. 6 5-09 73

Day 1: 5 3-11 Day 2: 1 1-14
 

Day 3: Fighting Boat Traffic, McClelland Holds Lead

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GROVE, Okla. – Fighting spectator and weekend boat traffic, CITGO Bassmaster Elite Series pro Mike McClelland of Bella Vista, Ark., on Saturday maintained his lead in the Elite Series’ Sooner Run on Grand Lake, bringing in 18 pounds, 3 ounces for a tournament total of 64-15.

McClelland kept his wits – and his concentration – despite being surrounded by nearly 40 spectator boats throughout the day. His limit included a 5-pound, 6-ounce bass that earned him the Purolator Big Bass bonus. That fish helped keep a comfortable cushion between McClelland and the rest of the field. For the second consecutive day, the nearest competitor to McClelland, Matt Reed of Texas, was still more than 11 pounds behind.

“It’s been a great week,” said McClelland. “I’ve never won a tournament here on Grand Lake…and I would sure love to put this one away.”

Nearly 2,000 fishing fans came out to the Day 3 weigh-in at the North Beach Development in Grove. But those who missed it can catch all of the big-bass action on The CITGO Bassmasters, Saturday, June 17 at 12:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2.

McClelland caught his first bass at 7:30 a.m. and had five by 9 a.m. He fished a variety of lures, including crankbaits, jigs and Zoom Brush Hogs.

“Getting off to a good start this morning boosted my confidence and when the big ones bit, it just made it better,” said the three-time CITGO Bassmaster Classic qualifier.

Reed, ranked 29th on the Bassmaster Elite Series Power Index, moved from fourth to second place on Saturday and also earned the Busch Heavy Weight Bag of the Day with 19-3, boosting his three-day total to 53 pounds. The one-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier keyed in on offshore structure, fishing jigs and worms along the bottom of rock piles.

This is Reed’s first visit to Grand Lake and he described the fishery as phenomenal. “I was fishing a rock pile when my lure got stuck, As I popped it lose, a 5-pounder just came up and ate it,” he said. “This is just an awesome lake.”

Californian Greg Gutierrez was in third, marking his first cut to the Elite 12 this season. Gutierrez weighed in 15-14 for a three-day total of 48-5. He fished jigs in shallow, offshore areas.

“I’ve got some great areas with a lot of fish to go to Sunday,” said Gutierrez, ranked 42nd on the Power Index. “Making the cut today really boosted my confidence and rejuvenated my desire to fish harder.”

Oklahomans Edwin Evers of Talala (7th) and Ken Cook of Meers (8th) are representing the Okies for the home crowd as they advance to the Elite 12 on Sunday. Evers weighed in 12-9 for a three-day total of 45-9, while Cook reeled in 11- 4, for a total of 44-12.

Also making the cut to the Elite 12 was Jeff Connella of Louisiana in fourth (48-2); Paul Elias of Mississippi and rookie Jami Fralick of South Dakota tied for fifth (47-3); Chad Brauer of Missouri, Aaron Martens of Alabama and Mike Iaconelli tired for ninth (44-1); and Dean Rojas of Arizona in 12th (43-10).

Also, Chris Koester of Rogers, Ark., beat out 49 other co-anglers with a three-day total of 26-6 to take home the trophy and a fully rigged Triton boat with Mercury engine worth $45,000. Koester has fished as a co-angler in other tournaments, the Sooner Run marked his BASS debut. “This is something I’ve always felt capable of doing,” he said, adding that he will try to repeat when he fishes last Elite Series tourney of the season, The Rock presented by TheraSeed, at Table Rock Lake in Kimberling City, Mo., in September.

The top 25 co-anglers competed for $115,400 in cash and merchandise.



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



1. Mike McClelland Bella Vista, Ark. 15 64-15 315 $4,000.00

Day 1: 5 21-09 Day 2: 5 25-03 Day 3: 5 18-03

2. Matt Reed Madisonville, Texas 15 53-00 295 $1,000.00

Day 1: 5 19-06 Day 2: 5 14-07 Day 3: 5 19-03

3. Greg Gutierrez Red Bluff, Calif. 15 48-05 290

Day 1: 5 16-12 Day 2: 5 15-11 Day 3: 5 15-14

4. Jeff Connella Bentley, La. 15 48-02 285

Day 1: 5 14-15 Day 2: 5 18-08 Day 3: 5 14-11

5. Paul Elias Laurel, Miss. 15 47-03 278

Day 1: 5 18-13 Day 2: 5 14-10 Day 3: 5 13-12

5. Jami Fralick Martin, S.D. 15 47-03 278

Day 1: 5 16-04 Day 2: 5 17-13 Day 3: 5 13-02

7. Edwin Evers Talala, Okla. 15 45-09 272

Day 1: 5 16-10 Day 2: 5 16-06 Day 3: 5 12-09

8. Ken Cook Lawton, Okla. 15 44-12 268

Day 1: 5 17-11 Day 2: 5 15-13 Day 3: 5 11-04

9. Chad Brauer Osage Beach, Mo. 15 44-01 260

Day 1: 5 18-12 Day 2: 5 12-10 Day 3: 5 12-11

9. Michael Iaconelli Runnemede, N.J. 15 44-01 260

Day 1: 5 18-09 Day 2: 5 14-12 Day 3: 5 10-12

9. Aaron Martens Leeds, Ala. 15 44-01 260

Day 1: 5 17-01 Day 2: 5 15-02 Day 3: 5 11-14

12. Dean Rojas Lake Havasu, Ariz. 14 43-10 254

Day 1: 5 16-15 Day 2: 5 17-12 Day 3: 4 8-15

13. Bradley Hallman Norman, Okla. 15 42-14 250 $10,750.00

Day 1: 5 16-07 Day 2: 5 15-11 Day 3: 5 10-12

13. John Murray Phoenix, Ariz. 15 42-14 250 $10,750.00

Day 1: 5 14-15 Day 2: 5 14-10 Day 3: 5 13-05

15. Kevin Wirth Crestwood, Ky. 15 42-13 245 $10,600.00

Day 1: 5 14-15 Day 2: 5 17-11 Day 3: 5 10-03

16. Davy Hite Ninety Six, S.C. 15 42-01 243 $10,500.00

Day 1: 5 14-12 Day 2: 5 16-11 Day 3: 5 10-10

17. Keith Phillips Calera, Ala. 15 41-11 241 $10,500.00

Day 1: 5 14-07 Day 2: 5 14-08 Day 3: 5 12-12

18. Brent Chapman Lake Quivira, Kan. 15 41-07 239 $10,500.00

Day 1: 5 15-12 Day 2: 5 11-07 Day 3: 5 14-04

19. Dave Smith Del City, Okla. 15 41-05 237 $10,500.00

Day 1: 5 15-05 Day 2: 5 13-03 Day 3: 5 12-13

20. Peter E Thliveros Jacksonville, Fla. 15 41-03 235 $10,500.00

Day 1: 5 15-12 Day 2: 5 14-05 Day 3: 5 11-02

21. Joe Thomas Milford, Ohio 15 41-02 233 $10,250.00

Day 1: 5 19-00 Day 2: 5 12-13 Day 3: 5 9-05

22. Kevin VanDam Kalamazoo, Mich. 15 40-15 231 $10,250.00

Day 1: 5 12-10 Day 2: 5 12-15 Day 3: 5 15-06

23. Brian Snowden Reeds Spring, Mo. 15 40-12 228 $10,250.00

Day 1: 5 15-10 Day 2: 5 15-00 Day 3: 5 10-02

23. David Gliebe Benton, Ky. 15 40-12 228 $10,250.00

Day 1: 5 10-06 Day 2: 5 14-12 Day 3: 5 15-10

25. Mark Tucker Saint Louis, Mo. 15 40-09 225 $10,250.00

Day 1: 5 11-04 Day 2: 5 14-06 Day 3: 5 14-15

26. Steve Kennedy Auburn, Ala. 15 40-07 223 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 15-06 Day 2: 5 13-15 Day 3: 5 11-02

27. Jason Quinn York, S.C. 15 40-03 221 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 16-15 Day 2: 5 9-13 Day 3: 5 13-07

28. Timmy Horton Muscle Shoals, Ala. 15 40-02 219 $11,000.00

Day 1: 5 21-07 Day 2: 5 10-11 Day 3: 5 8-00

29. Terry Segraves Kissimmee, Fla. 15 39-13 217 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 15-01 Day 2: 5 13-15 Day 3: 5 10-13

30. Takahiro Omori Emory, Texas 15 39-10 215 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 14-10 Day 2: 5 13-05 Day 3: 5 11-11

31. Gary Klein Weatherford, Texas 15 39-06 213 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 12-14 Day 2: 5 17-06 Day 3: 5 9-02

32. Mike Wurm Hot Springs, Ark. 15 39-03 211 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 13-00 Day 2: 5 12-12 Day 3: 5 13-07

33. Alton Jones Waco, Texas 15 38-07 209 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 13-15 Day 2: 5 16-12 Day 3: 5 7-12

34. Tommy Biffle Wagoner, Okla. 15 38-01 207 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 11-05 Day 2: 5 14-12 Day 3: 5 12-00

35. Greg Hackney Gonzales, La. 15 37-14 205 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 14-07 Day 2: 5 12-01 Day 3: 5 11-06

36. Bill Lowen North Bend, Ohio 14 37-13 203 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 12-07 Day 2: 5 17-12 Day 3: 4 7-10

37. Frank Scalish Cleveland Heights, Ohi 15 37-12 201 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 13-08 Day 2: 5 14-11 Day 3: 5 9-09

38. Jeff Kriet Ardmore, Okla. 15 37-09 199 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 14-03 Day 2: 5 14-05 Day 3: 5 9-01

39. Jon Bondy Windsor, Canada 15 37-07 196 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 15-02 Day 2: 5 11-11 Day 3: 5 10-10

39. Terry Scroggins Palatka, Fla. 15 37-07 196 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 11-05 Day 2: 5 14-10 Day 3: 5 11-08

41. Russ Lane Prattville, Ala. 15 37-06 193 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 14-15 Day 2: 5 13-12 Day 3: 5 8-11

42. John Crews Salem, Va. 15 37-05 191 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 11-09 Day 2: 5 16-11 Day 3: 5 9-01

43. Kenyon Hill Norman, Okla. 15 36-13 189 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 12-14 Day 2: 5 15-00 Day 3: 5 8-15

44. Morizo Shimizu Murrieta, Calif. 15 36-04 187 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 12-01 Day 2: 5 17-06 Day 3: 5 6-13

45. Kotaro Kiriyama Moody, Ala. 14 34-13 185 $10,000.00

Day 1: 4 10-06 Day 2: 5 14-03 Day 3: 5 10-04

46. Darrin Schwenkbeck Silver Spring, Md. 15 33-15 182 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 13-09 Day 2: 5 11-10 Day 3: 5 8-12

46. Chris Lane Winter Haven, Fla. 15 33-15 182 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 11-12 Day 2: 5 13-07 Day 3: 5 8-12

48. Randy Howell Springville, Ala. 14 33-03 179 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 12-04 Day 2: 5 12-14 Day 3: 4 8-01

49. Charlie Youngers Geneva, Fla. 14 32-02 177 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 12-11 Day 2: 5 12-04 Day 3: 4 7-03

50. Rick Clunn Ava, Mo. 12 28-09 175 $10,000.00

Day 1: 5 15-13 Day 2: 5 9-11 Day 3: 2 3-01

 

Day 4: McClelland Reels in Wire-to-Wire Win on Grand Lake

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GROVE, Okla. – In the biggest win of his career, 38-year-old Mike McClelland of Bella Vista, Ark., outpaced the entire field of CITGO Bassmaster Elite Series anglers, taking a wire-to-wire win on Grand Lake. McClelland’s four-day total of 79 pounds, 7 ounces earned him $100,000 and boosted his total BASS career earnings to nearly $500,000.

McClelland brought in a Day 4 catch of 14-8 and his nearly 80-pound tournament total bested second-place Texan Matt Reed by nearly 16 pounds. McClelland also outweighed prominent Elite anglers including 2005 CITGO Bassmaster Angler of the Year Aaron Martens and 2003 CITGO Bassmaster Classic champion Mike Iaconelli. Crowd favorites Edwin Evers and Ken Cook of Oklahoma also fell to McClelland.

“It’s kind of surreal,” said the winner. ”I had 50 to 60 boats following me at one point today. Everyone’s been great, and the crowd on and off the water just kept me excited and pumped up.”

Nearly 4,000 fans turned out at the final weigh-in at the North Beach Development, but for those who missed it, McClelland’s victory will air on The CITGO Bassmasters on Saturday, June 17 at 12:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2.

McClelland fished offshore structure the entire week, concentrating on rock and brush piles and throwing jigs and soft plastics.

Celebrating his win with nearly 30 friends and family members, McClelland said the experience was incredible. “It’s a special feeling, having all of them here,” he said. “This win really solidifies me as an angler and solidifies where I am in my career.” With the win, McClelland moved to 27th in Angler of the Year standings and 19th on the Bassmaster Elite Series Power Index. He’s also qualified for the Bassmaster Classic three times, won the 2005 CITGO Bassmaster Open Championship and has 11 top-10 BASS finishes.

2003 Bassmaster Classic qualifier Reed finished second overall with a final-day catch of 10-14 and a tournament total of 63-14. Keying in on offshore rock piles and points all week, Reed called Sunday a struggle, as he had just two keeper fish at 2 p.m. Fishing a 10½-inch, plum-colored worm and a 5/8-ounce jig, Reed managed four more catches in the last 40 minutes of competition.

“I caught all I could today and didn’t lose a fish,” said Reed, ranked 20th on the Power Index. “Mike has just fished phenomenally here. How he figured it out is awesome.”

Third place Greg Gutierrez of Red Bluff, Calif., brought in a five-fish stringer weighing 14-11 and earned the Busch Heavyweight bonus, boosting his total to 63 pounds. Gutierrez fished jigs in three 50-yard stretches and concentrated his casts in water 3 to 8 feet deep.

Evers, of Talala, Okla., leapt from seventh to fourth place with a Day 4 catch of 11-14. He caught each day’s limits in water 20 to 25 feet deep on jigs and crankbaits. Evers’ four-day total of 57-7 bumped him to 16th in Angler of the Year standings and ninth on the Power Index.

The remainder of the field finished as follows: Dean Rojas of Arizona in fifth (57-5); Paul Elias of Mississippi in sixth (57-2);Jeff Connella of Louisiana in seventh (56-12); Cook of Oklahoma in eighth (56-8); Martens of Alabama in ninth (56-1); Iaconelli of New Jersey in 10th (54-15); Chad Brauer of Missouri in 11th (54-12); and Jami Fralick of South Dakota in 12th (54-9).

$673,150 in cash was 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.

The next stop on the CITGO Bassmaster Elite Series tournament trail is the Bluegrass Brawl on Kentucky Lake in Kentucky Dam Village, Ky., June 15-18.


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



1. Mike McClelland Bella Vista, Ark. 20 79-07 320 $104,000.00

Day 1: 5 21-09 Day 2: 5 25-03 Day 3: 5 18-03 Day 4: 5 14-08

2. Matt Reed Madisonville, Texas 20 63-14 295 $31,000.00

Day 1: 5 19-06 Day 2: 5 14-07 Day 3: 5 19-03 Day 4: 5 10-14

3. Greg Gutierrez Red Bluff, Calif. 20 63-00 290 $26,000.00

Day 1: 5 16-12 Day 2: 5 15-11 Day 3: 5 15-14 Day 4: 5 14-11

4. Edwin Evers Talala, Okla. 20 57-07 285 $18,000.00

Day 1: 5 16-10 Day 2: 5 16-06 Day 3: 5 12-09 Day 4: 5 11-14

5. Dean Rojas Lake Havasu, Ariz. 19 57-05 280 $18,000.00

Day 1: 5 16-15 Day 2: 5 17-12 Day 3: 4 8-15 Day 4: 5 13-11

6. Paul Elias Laurel, Miss. 20 57-02 276 $15,500.00

Day 1: 5 18-13 Day 2: 5 14-10 Day 3: 5 13-12 Day 4: 5 9-15

7. Jeff Connella Bentley, La. 20 56-12 272 $15,000.00

Day 1: 5 14-15 Day 2: 5 18-08 Day 3: 5 14-11 Day 4: 5 8-10

8. Ken Cook Lawton, Okla. 20 56-08 268 $14,500.00

Day 1: 5 17-11 Day 2: 5 15-13 Day 3: 5 11-04 Day 4: 5 11-12

9. Aaron Martens Leeds, Ala. 20 56-01 264 $14,000.00

Day 1: 5 17-01 Day 2: 5 15-02 Day 3: 5 11-14 Day 4: 5 12-00

10. Michael Iaconelli Runnemede, N.J. 20 54-15 260 $13,500.00

Day 1: 5 18-09 Day 2: 5 14-12 Day 3: 5 10-12 Day 4: 5 10-14

11. Chad Brauer Osage Beach, Mo. 20 54-12 257 $12,500.00

Day 1: 5 18-12 Day 2: 5 12-10 Day 3: 5 12-11 Day 4: 5 10-11

12. Jami Fralick Martin, S.D. 19 54-09 254 $12,300.00

Day 1: 5 16-04 Day 2: 5 17-13 Day 3: 5 13-02 Day 4: 4 7-06

 

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Compiled by Brandon Shook