Having a lot of fun prepping for next season. My schedule is set and I'm really excited as I gear up. Next season includes similar trips to last year as well as a couple of new ones and one old dear friend (Table Rock).
My first stop is Amistad (Bassmaster Central Open #1), a new lake to me. I've been researching, developed a plan and geared up. It is interesting and fun prepping for a lake with 10 pound plus potential. I've add swim baits and some technique specific baits to my arsenal. I've become a big fan of swim baits, but my experience is with halfies (half the size of Amistad baits). It will be fun and I hope to come home with stories of a new personal best. After Amistad, I have the Bassmaster Central Open #2 at the Red (Shreveport) followed by the Nebraska Bass Nation state tournament at the "Rock". Gonna be fun for sure.
New for next season, I'm adding a GoPro and video to the blog. Expect to see some footage from each stop as well as product reviews. I've added some new gear for next season and I'm excited to provide feedback. A couple of new items that I'm excited to report on are Cabela's new Tournament ZX line of casting and spinning rods and Okuma's C3-40X Concept rods paired with Serrano reels. The new rods are light, very sensitive and look as good as they feel. The real report will be how well they perform, especially at Amistad with big fish and big baits.
So if the winter blues begin to grab hold, pick an early lake and start prepping!
Friday, December 13, 2013
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
Turkey Time!
What I am thankful for (the 4 F's):
FAITH - I am thankful for the one true God who is gracious, loving and in control.
FAMILY - I am thankful for my beautiful wife and 3 great kids. Also, my sister, brother, aunts, uncles, cousins and especially, my in-laws.
FRIENDS - I am thankful to have some of the best friends a man could ask for.
FISH (of course) - I am thankful for green and brown fish (Bass, what else?) and the opportunity to pursue them all over the country!!!!!!!!!!
Happy Thanksgiving to all!
FAITH - I am thankful for the one true God who is gracious, loving and in control.
FAMILY - I am thankful for my beautiful wife and 3 great kids. Also, my sister, brother, aunts, uncles, cousins and especially, my in-laws.
FRIENDS - I am thankful to have some of the best friends a man could ask for.
FISH (of course) - I am thankful for green and brown fish (Bass, what else?) and the opportunity to pursue them all over the country!!!!!!!!!!
Happy Thanksgiving to all!
Sunday, October 27, 2013
A little Fun!!!
Haven't been out on Harlan for a long while, like 2 months, but couldn't resist the 70 degree day. So I went down to the spillway today to wet a line. Two good bites, I estimated a 10 (spook)
and a 12 (swim bait).
Not bad for a couple of hours in late October. They aren't largemouth, but.....
Gotta get through the off-season, just sayin!
and a 12 (swim bait).
Not bad for a couple of hours in late October. They aren't largemouth, but.....
Gotta get through the off-season, just sayin!
Sunday, October 20, 2013
Bassmaster Central Opens Wrapup
Rest in Peace Jimmy, may you endure gods love in eternity.
As for the tournament, the "Rez" (as locals call it) fished very tough this past week. My first day was ridiculously tough as I only had 2 bites all day. I managed to boat both and ended the day in 59th. Day 2 started with a fog delay and cooler temps, but the sun started to improve the bite (at least for me).
I managed 2 fish on a Koppers Live Target frog (bullfrog) and gave myself a chance. I temporarily moved into 2nd, but I was in the third flight and many anglers still had to weigh-in. By the time they all weighed, I ended in 15th. I finished just outside the final 12, but a solid finish and a good check. I would have loved to fish another top 12, but it wasn't in the cards.
Overall, I came up just short of taking the overall for the season and finished in second for the season standings. Very good considering my first full season back and a solid jump start for my jump back into the pro division for 2014. I have great expectations for next season and am chomping at the bit to get started. First, I have to finish my sponsor proposals and close my deal on a new rig. I know I can represent my potential sponsors well, and hope to get something settled soon. Regardless of the outcome, I will be fishing next season in the Opens due to priority entry gained through qualifying.
Sponsor recognition: I want to say thank you to Triton boats and all the "Open" sponsors. Additionally, I want to say thank you to Okuma Fishin.I also want to give a shout out to some of my new friends.
Jon and Kelli Englund
Jon and Kelli are from Farwell, Mn. Jon is on the Skeeter pro staff.
Trevor RomansTrevor is from the Dallas area and finished third in the season standings (pro Division). Great job!!! Trevor has a decision to make as he qualified for the Elites next year.
Dennis TietjeDennis is from Louisiana and is an Elite Pro. I'll be rooting for you TJ!
Doug Anderson
Doug had a good year finishing 33rd overall and re-qualifying for next season.
Jan and Charles are from Little Rock and Jan is sponsored by Ramada. Charles fished as a co-angler.
I look forward to seeing you all next year.
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Mississippi on my Mind (Co-angler tips)
Getting ready for the last Bassmaster Central Open of the season. This one is on Ross Barnett, a historical bass venue that fishes shallow. I'm really excited as the "Rez" (as locals call it) fishes to my strengths. Doesn't mean anything with regards to finishing, but at least I'll get to finish the year doing what I like best.
But first, I want to say congratulations to our friends Craig and Shirley Poyser and their daughter Kaylyn. Kaylyn's wedding is Saturday and we will be their to celebrate the occasion. This is an exciting time and I want to offer my best wishes to Kaylyn and Richard. I wish you both a long and happy union!
Now back to the prep. I've been doing the usual, preparing tackle, scouring reports, tournament results, current and seasonal patterns, etc. I put together a plan, but I am fishing the co-angler side. That is the unknown that keeps you wondering. So, how does a co-angler prepare? Let me list a few things that I believe help a co prepare and fish to be successful.
First, do you're homework. What patterns and techniques are likely to be in play during your trip. What baits are typically used to be successful. In todays world of the internet, information is available on tournament results, fishing reports and even best recommended patterns. I always want to be a little different, but if reports indicate a lake is dominated by a bait type, color or technique, there is a reason for it.
Secondly, prepare yourself for the predominant techniques, but also set up something slightly different. At the Arkansas, I knew that flipping was going to be key. My pro partners flipped texas rigged craws. So instead of flipping the same thing, I opted for a flipping tube in a slightly different shade. I wanted to trigger bites from fish that ignored their baits, but would eat something a little more subtle. When they chuck a spinnerbait, try a different blade type. I like to follow with a colorado or indiana blade if they throw willows, or vice versa. They key here is follow the lead differently. What I mean is, if they are covering water then do the same, but with a different bait/presentation. If they slow down, then slow down, just a little differently. This is key to being successful when following someone. This also works well when fishing an area that has already been fished by another boat.
Lastly, be aware of what everyone around you is doing, but also be aware of what is going on in the water. Occasionally, I see a fish move (wake) or a bush or grass shake, baitfish skip or flee or even a shadow that looks out of place. I immediately cast to, or alter my retrieve to target that fish. Usually, this works, but not always. Stay focused and execute. You get less opportunities when your fishing the back deck, so missing a key strike can be costly. And most importantly, stay positive. A negative attitude will impact your ability to execute effectively. My last tournament is a perfect example. I had zero fish in the livewell with 1 hour to fish. I managed 2 quality fish and even missed the third in the last hour. That was my best bag of the tournament even though I only had 2, but I might have missed out if I didn't remain focused.
Hopefully that helps someone out. I will be following these keys next week and hope to have another strong finish. So, see you after the tournament, good fishing and god bless!
But first, I want to say congratulations to our friends Craig and Shirley Poyser and their daughter Kaylyn. Kaylyn's wedding is Saturday and we will be their to celebrate the occasion. This is an exciting time and I want to offer my best wishes to Kaylyn and Richard. I wish you both a long and happy union!
Now back to the prep. I've been doing the usual, preparing tackle, scouring reports, tournament results, current and seasonal patterns, etc. I put together a plan, but I am fishing the co-angler side. That is the unknown that keeps you wondering. So, how does a co-angler prepare? Let me list a few things that I believe help a co prepare and fish to be successful.
First, do you're homework. What patterns and techniques are likely to be in play during your trip. What baits are typically used to be successful. In todays world of the internet, information is available on tournament results, fishing reports and even best recommended patterns. I always want to be a little different, but if reports indicate a lake is dominated by a bait type, color or technique, there is a reason for it.
Secondly, prepare yourself for the predominant techniques, but also set up something slightly different. At the Arkansas, I knew that flipping was going to be key. My pro partners flipped texas rigged craws. So instead of flipping the same thing, I opted for a flipping tube in a slightly different shade. I wanted to trigger bites from fish that ignored their baits, but would eat something a little more subtle. When they chuck a spinnerbait, try a different blade type. I like to follow with a colorado or indiana blade if they throw willows, or vice versa. They key here is follow the lead differently. What I mean is, if they are covering water then do the same, but with a different bait/presentation. If they slow down, then slow down, just a little differently. This is key to being successful when following someone. This also works well when fishing an area that has already been fished by another boat.
Lastly, be aware of what everyone around you is doing, but also be aware of what is going on in the water. Occasionally, I see a fish move (wake) or a bush or grass shake, baitfish skip or flee or even a shadow that looks out of place. I immediately cast to, or alter my retrieve to target that fish. Usually, this works, but not always. Stay focused and execute. You get less opportunities when your fishing the back deck, so missing a key strike can be costly. And most importantly, stay positive. A negative attitude will impact your ability to execute effectively. My last tournament is a perfect example. I had zero fish in the livewell with 1 hour to fish. I managed 2 quality fish and even missed the third in the last hour. That was my best bag of the tournament even though I only had 2, but I might have missed out if I didn't remain focused.
Hopefully that helps someone out. I will be following these keys next week and hope to have another strong finish. So, see you after the tournament, good fishing and god bless!
Saturday, October 5, 2013
A little PR and Decisions, Decisions!
This is an exciting time. I got a little PR for the last tournament win at the Bassmasters Central Open #2 (Arkansas River), and a lot of congrats and comments from friends, family and even people I really don't know. Although I will point out that there are no strangers in this world, only friends we haven't met yet.
Here are a few of the media comments:
Here are a few of the media comments:
Now for the fun/frustrating part. I am trying to figure out what to do with the boat certificate. I am considering several options. Do I sell the certificate or upgrade to a new boat. If I upgrade, I need to sell mine. My preference is the upgrade; however, the primary issue is the boat trade or sale (of my Cobra). Having put a new motor (Evinrude 200 H.O.) on my boat this spring, I have a lot of money invested in my current rig. Can I get enough out of it to make the deal work? Yes, the motor has 4+ years of warranty remaining and it is transferable. That's the good news as this is better than many new warranties on other brands. The tough part is that trade-in values are much lower than retail (obviously), and finding a buyer on short notice can be difficult at best. So, it is a difficult decision; however, I am not complaining. It is a good problem to have. I will say that Triton boats and their dealers (I will expand on this in later posts, post-decision) are awesome. They are easy to work with and their effort is obvious as they try to assist me in making the best decision for me. I would highly recommend Triton and an authorized Triton dealer if you are ever considering a boat, new or used.
As for 2014, I am planning and determining the schedules I will fish. I am committed to the Bassmaster Central Opens as I move into the pro division and am scheduled to fish the Nebraska Bass Nation State tournament (Tablerock) and the Bassmaster Bass Nation Central Divisional (somewhere in Oklahoma). The additional circuits I fish will largely be determined by potential sponsor opportunities. The Central Everstarts are one option as well as regional BFL's or other divisions of the Bassmaster Open series, ABA, etc. These will be finalized based on "if" I can secure sponsor commitments and their preference on additional exposure. Fun, Fun, Fun!!! I really mean that. My goal is and has always been to fish at the highest level. This is one step in the journey, and the experiences are ones that I will cherish always.
So for now, good fishing and God Bless!
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Fall Swing
It's a busy time as I finish the fall season. First, I decided to fish the Tournament of Champions for Western Nebraska this past weekend. I was unsure as the lake selection was for Merritt again and I still have not had an opportunity to practice there, but I went anyway. This is especially important as the Western Nebraska Bass Tournament Trail has spectacular sponsors in Okuma, Baxter Ford and Mercury Marine. Okuma provided 6 Helios reels and rods (I can say try these if you never have), Mercury, a new Motorguide trolling motor and Baxter provides Big Bass ($100) for every tournament. Thank you to all the sponsors as they are a vital part of any tournament organization!
As for the fishing, well let's just say I zigged when I should have have zagged. I ran to the back of the creek first thing and committed to those fish despite a lot of rain. Unfortunately, the water temps dropped too much and by the time the bite picked up, it was too late. I managed 1 keeper. Day 2 brought sunny conditions and milder temps and I adjusted back to the outer half of the creek. Much better choice, but I had a poor execution day as I had 4 keeper bites and boated 1. On a very tough day with low weights, I needed to boat them all, but that's fishing. I want to say congrats to the team of Phillipi and Young!!!
Now for the finish, on my way to Mississippi next week to fish the last central open on Ross Barnett. It is going to be fun as the lake fishes to my strengths. I'm looking for another solid finish as I'm sitting in 2nd overall in the season standings (out of 261 anglers). I will be pre-fishing with a friend and pro, Jon Englund. The goal is to locate the pattern that provides the best average catch and then execute cleanly. I'll break down the tournament once it's over.
As for the boat? I'm working with a couple of Triton dealers towards a possible upgrade. My goal is to be in a new Triton next year as I jump into the pro division. I'll detail this after I make my selection in a later post.
For now, good fishing and God Bless!
As for the fishing, well let's just say I zigged when I should have have zagged. I ran to the back of the creek first thing and committed to those fish despite a lot of rain. Unfortunately, the water temps dropped too much and by the time the bite picked up, it was too late. I managed 1 keeper. Day 2 brought sunny conditions and milder temps and I adjusted back to the outer half of the creek. Much better choice, but I had a poor execution day as I had 4 keeper bites and boated 1. On a very tough day with low weights, I needed to boat them all, but that's fishing. I want to say congrats to the team of Phillipi and Young!!!
Now for the finish, on my way to Mississippi next week to fish the last central open on Ross Barnett. It is going to be fun as the lake fishes to my strengths. I'm looking for another solid finish as I'm sitting in 2nd overall in the season standings (out of 261 anglers). I will be pre-fishing with a friend and pro, Jon Englund. The goal is to locate the pattern that provides the best average catch and then execute cleanly. I'll break down the tournament once it's over.As for the boat? I'm working with a couple of Triton dealers towards a possible upgrade. My goal is to be in a new Triton next year as I jump into the pro division. I'll detail this after I make my selection in a later post.
For now, good fishing and God Bless!
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Catching up, BIG Time!
I'll first apologize for the long time between posts. The last month has been crazy, lots of work, driving etc. It all culminated this past week at the Bassmaster Central Open on the Arkansas River in Muskogee Oklahoma. There is so much to say, that I'm going to give you the highlights now and break it down in 2 or 3 follow-up posts.
First, I want to dedicate this to my parents, Steve and Edith Padgett. I have held the dream of becoming a full time professional angler for many years. My folks supported my dream and followed me to every tournament. I suspended that dream in 2001 to raise my children and be present for all their accomplishments. Unfortunately, I lost my parents to cancer, my father in 2003 and my mother in 2012. I wish they could have been there.
This past week, I fished the open relaxed and prepared. I went early, taking my boat and pre-fishing alone. I found the right fish (big enough to win), but fishing as a co, you're at the mercy of the guy up front. I was very blessed to get 3 good pairings. My first day pro, Todd Murray, ended up on the same fish I found in practice. It turned out to be my best bag, even though I only had two. They were the right two, a 4-1 and a 3-12 for a first day total of 7-13. That was good enough for a tie for fourth.
Day two brought rain, clouds, cooler temps and a great pairing with Elite Series professional Dennis Tietje. All I can say is this guy is all class. While he had a rough day, he fully supported my effort and put me in position with a solid limit. I ended the day with 3 that went 6-6 and sitting alone in third. TOP TWELVE! That is the goal for everyone fishing as only the top 12 make it to the last day.
The last day brought a pairing with Trevor Romans of Dallas. Another great pro who was in fourth and on fish. I can't say day three was pretty, I lost several fish including my biggest to a broken hook. But in the end, I finished with a 3 fish limit that weighed 6-7 and took home the trophy and a new $25,000 Triton bass boat.
I love and miss you Mom and Dad! Number 1 and on my way!!!
First, I want to dedicate this to my parents, Steve and Edith Padgett. I have held the dream of becoming a full time professional angler for many years. My folks supported my dream and followed me to every tournament. I suspended that dream in 2001 to raise my children and be present for all their accomplishments. Unfortunately, I lost my parents to cancer, my father in 2003 and my mother in 2012. I wish they could have been there.
This past week, I fished the open relaxed and prepared. I went early, taking my boat and pre-fishing alone. I found the right fish (big enough to win), but fishing as a co, you're at the mercy of the guy up front. I was very blessed to get 3 good pairings. My first day pro, Todd Murray, ended up on the same fish I found in practice. It turned out to be my best bag, even though I only had two. They were the right two, a 4-1 and a 3-12 for a first day total of 7-13. That was good enough for a tie for fourth.
Day two brought rain, clouds, cooler temps and a great pairing with Elite Series professional Dennis Tietje. All I can say is this guy is all class. While he had a rough day, he fully supported my effort and put me in position with a solid limit. I ended the day with 3 that went 6-6 and sitting alone in third. TOP TWELVE! That is the goal for everyone fishing as only the top 12 make it to the last day.
The last day brought a pairing with Trevor Romans of Dallas. Another great pro who was in fourth and on fish. I can't say day three was pretty, I lost several fish including my biggest to a broken hook. But in the end, I finished with a 3 fish limit that weighed 6-7 and took home the trophy and a new $25,000 Triton bass boat.
I love and miss you Mom and Dad! Number 1 and on my way!!!
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Monday, August 19, 2013
Stayin' fresh and Preppin' for WNTT
I had the opportunity to get out on Harlan this weekend.
The bite is finally starting to pick up on largemouth bass. Despite the lower water, the fishing is excellent right now.
I lucked onto an accidental frog bite Saturday and even caught a couple on a swim bait and tube. I say accidental because I only threw the frog because I had pulled it out to get it out of the way. I picked up the rod and something nudged me to throw it (it looked right). First cast was rewarded with a 4. Despite that, I still put it doen and grabbed a buzz bait. Two hookups and losses prompted me to pick the frog back up and guess what? A 2 1/2 on the next cast. Soooooo, I decided to stick with it and filled a nice limit around 20 pounds, including a 6 plus kicker. The fish were relating to wood and were cruising the outer edges of the heaviest cover. Even caught some whites, a big drum and a good cat. Everything swam free. Overall, a great day.
Conditions: Overcast, SE wind around 15, water temp 73.
White Bass are shallow (less than 3 feet) with many limits being reported. Cats are shallow and aggressive.
Preppin!
I'm finalizing my prep for the Western Nebraska Bass Tournament Trail at Merritt this weekend. I haven't been to the lake since 2003, so I will be at a disadvantage from recent experience. I have however put together a game plan based on available information. The first day will be an exercise in breaking down a lake, catching enough to be competitive and preparing for a successful day 2. I had planned to get up there for some pre-fishing this year, but circumstances haven't allowed for that. So, I'll go in with a good attitude and Hopefully my homework pays off. The lake will be quite different this year as water levels are much higher than normal (for this time of year). Wish me luck.
The bite is finally starting to pick up on largemouth bass. Despite the lower water, the fishing is excellent right now.
I lucked onto an accidental frog bite Saturday and even caught a couple on a swim bait and tube. I say accidental because I only threw the frog because I had pulled it out to get it out of the way. I picked up the rod and something nudged me to throw it (it looked right). First cast was rewarded with a 4. Despite that, I still put it doen and grabbed a buzz bait. Two hookups and losses prompted me to pick the frog back up and guess what? A 2 1/2 on the next cast. Soooooo, I decided to stick with it and filled a nice limit around 20 pounds, including a 6 plus kicker. The fish were relating to wood and were cruising the outer edges of the heaviest cover. Even caught some whites, a big drum and a good cat. Everything swam free. Overall, a great day.
Conditions: Overcast, SE wind around 15, water temp 73.
White Bass are shallow (less than 3 feet) with many limits being reported. Cats are shallow and aggressive.
Preppin!
I'm finalizing my prep for the Western Nebraska Bass Tournament Trail at Merritt this weekend. I haven't been to the lake since 2003, so I will be at a disadvantage from recent experience. I have however put together a game plan based on available information. The first day will be an exercise in breaking down a lake, catching enough to be competitive and preparing for a successful day 2. I had planned to get up there for some pre-fishing this year, but circumstances haven't allowed for that. So, I'll go in with a good attitude and Hopefully my homework pays off. The lake will be quite different this year as water levels are much higher than normal (for this time of year). Wish me luck.
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