David PadgettPro Bass Fishing: Bassmaster Central Opens Wrapup

Well, the Opens season is officially over and I am very pleased with the results. Open #3 at Ross Barnett in Jackson Mississippi was interesting to say the least, but I finished well. First, I want to send my condolences to the family of James "Jimmy" Johnson from Texas. Jimmy was shot and killed at his motel by someone trying to steal from his boat. Jimmy was a fine angler and better person and will be missed by everyone.

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 Romans

Trevor 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.