Scott Hayes on Logan Martin

Lincoln, AL – Scott Hayes emerged as the champion of the 2023 American Bass Anglers Open Series South Alabama Division tournament, which took place on June 17th at Logan Martin. Starting from Lincoln Landing in Lincoln, AL, Hayes from Wedowee, AL brought in five bass weighing a total of 13.63 pounds, including a notable 3.29-pound kicker. 

Hayes shared insights into his winning strategy, stating, "I began my day up the river using a frog and flipping grass, but unfortunately, I couldn't land any keeper fish. So, I decided to venture down the lake and ended up catching a solid limit of approximately 8 pounds through flipping. A few years ago, I had a successful tournament in the back of a creek where fresh water was flowing, so I revisited that spot and caught three 3-pounders." Hayes' thoughtful approach and adaptability clearly paid off.

Securing second place among the boaters was Rickie Harp from Cottondale, AL, who landed a five-bass tournament limit weighing 12.66 pounds. Harp also triumphed with the biggest catch among the boaters, an impressive 3.93-pound bass. 

Harp shared his techniques, stating, "I successfully caught my fish using a swim jig, and I had already reached my limit by 7:30 AM. Later in the day, I managed to upgrade my catch by using a shakey-head technique around docks. The big bass was caught while using the swim jig." Harp's strategic approach showcased his mastery of different fishing methods.

Hunter Godwin from Maplesville, AL secured third place among the boaters with five bass weighing 12.54 pounds.

Godwin explained his tactics, saying, "This morning, my biggest fish was caught on a frog, while the rest were caught offshore later in the day. Although I caught numerous fish, I, unfortunately, didn't land any substantial bites." Despite the challenge, Godwin's overall performance was commendable.

Michael Smith of Andalusia, AL secured fourth place with a five-bass limit weighing 11.55 pounds. Kenny Carroll of Opelika, AL rounded out the top five boaters with his impressive catch of five bass weighing 11.44 pounds.

In the Co-Angler Division, James "Matt" Cameron of Southside, AL claimed victory by skillfully reeling in three bass weighing a total of 7.07 pounds, including a significant 2.83-pound bass.

Cameron described his approach, stating, "We focused our efforts between this location and the dam. Initially, I fished around grass using a shakey-head technique, and later in the day, I managed to catch the big bass near the dam using the same shakey-head method." Cameron's adaptability and strategic choices propelled him to victory.

Michael Donaldson of Thorsby, AL secured second place among the co-anglers, reeling in three bass weighing 6.51 pounds.

Donaldson shared his tactics, saying, "I effectively caught my fish using a jig and a shakey-head technique. We started our day close by, and then ventured down the lake where I successfully upgraded my catch twice." Donaldson's thoughtful approach and ability to adapt to changing conditions led to his impressive performance.

Gavin Woodruff of Robertsdale, AL secured the third position among the co-anglers, showcasing his angling skills with three bass weighing 5.75 pounds.

Donathon Jacks of Clanton, AL claimed fourth place in the co-angler category, impressively reeling in two bass weighing 2.68 pounds.

Looking ahead, the division has an exciting event on the horizon. The 2-day championship event is scheduled to take place on August 26th and 27th, 2023, at Lake Eufaula. Anglers will gather at the renowned Lakepoint Resort State Park, located at 104 Old Hwy 165, Eufaula, AL 36027. 

American Bass Anglers is sponsored by Caymas Boats, Mercury Marine, MotorGuide, T-H Marine, Power Pole, RT Outdoors, Optima Batteries, Hotel Planner.com and LurePartsOnline.com.

About American Bass Anglers: American Bass Anglers is committed to providing low-cost, close-to-home tournaments for the weekend angler and, at the same time, offering each competitor an upward path for individual angler progression.

For more information about American Bass Anglers, the Open Series, the American Fishing Tour, the American Couples Series, the annual Military Team Bass Tournament, and the Top 150 Solo Tour, all presented by Caymas Boats, visit www.americanbassanglers.com or call (256) 232-0406.