Kissimmee, Florida — On Sunday, September 27th, excitement buzzed in the air as twenty couples gathered for the inaugural event of the 2025 season for American Bass Anglers’ Florida Division 14. Held on the renowned Lake Tohopekaliga (Lake Toho), this first Couples Tournament was a day filled with anticipation, camaraderie, and impressive catches.
The day began at Captain and Tequilla’s store at Toho Marina, where new and returning members were welcomed and briefed on the tournament. For many of the female anglers, this was their first tournament experience, and for some, it was their first time spending over eight hours on a boat with their loved ones. By the end of the day, smiles were contagious as all participants proudly displayed their catches at the weigh-in. The shared experience fostered a deeper appreciation for their partners’ dedication to the sport.
The competition was fierce, and at the end of the day, four teams earned top honors:
First Place went to the team of Jerrod and Jennifer Albright, who brought in an impressive 22.27 pounds. Jennifer, participating in only her second tournament ever, landed the Big Bass on the Lady Angler side with a 5.91-pound catch.
Second Place was claimed by Chad and Robyn Schroeder, whose 19.69-pound limit was anchored by Chad’s massive 9.97-pound Trophy Catch Florida qualifying bass.
Third Place finishers Charles and Amanda Da Silva also brought in a full limit, weighing 17.15 pounds.
Fourth Place was secured by Ryan and Kara Hoover with a total of 15.29 pounds, with Kara reeling in the largest fish for their team—a six-plus-pound bass, though she opted out of the Big Fish jackpot.
In total, 17 limits were weighed, totaling over 200 pounds, all caught and released in the beautiful Kissimmee Chain of Lakes.
The event was a huge success, setting the tone for a fantastic season. The next tournament will take place on Sunday, October 27th, once again launching from the Kissimmee Lakefront Ramp to fish the Kissimmee Chain. Florida Division 14 is eager to continue building momentum and looks forward to representing at next year’s National Championship.
Top 15
Cindy Joint, based in Harmony, Florida, is the new Tournament Director for the Florida Central Couples Series. With over two years as Parts Manager at Amera Trail, a 30-year career in property management, and experience as a local fishing columnist, Cindy brings valuable expertise to the role. She has eight years of experience running a local team trail and the popular Wednesday Night Derby at Kissimmee Lakefront. Co-Tournament Director Steve “Boogie” Brown, a fifth-generation Floridian and 25-year tournament angler, brings a competitive spirit honed through BMX, snowboarding, and drag racing. When not fishing, Steve works for John Deere and is eager to support couples in achieving their fishing goals and competing at the National Championship.
The division’s next event is currently scheduled for 10/27 on the Kissimmee Chain out of Lakefront Park in Kissimmee, FL. You can contact Cindy at (407)709-0618 or Steve at (561)543-5984 for more information. Cindy asks you to help spread the word about their couples series in Central Florida.
With hurricane Milton bearing down on Flordia, all of ABA hopes that all of our Florida members and their families will get to a safe place and remain safe as this storm passes.
About American Bass Anglers
American Bass Anglers, committed to providing low-cost, close-to-home tournaments, offers an exciting platform for individual angler progression. With the support of industry-leading companies, ABA continues to advance the sport of bass fishing.
For more information about the ABA Professional League and the Top 150 Solo Tour, visit www.americanbassanglers.com or call (256) 232-0406.
American Bass Anglers is proud to be sponsored by Caymas Boats, Mercury Marine, T-H Marine, Power Pole, Optima Batteries, Hotel Planner.com, and LurePartsOnline.com.
About American Bass Anglers: American Bass Anglers is dedicated to organizing affordable, local tournaments for weekend anglers while offering opportunities for individual angler advancement. To learn more about American Bass Anglers, including the Team Series, American Fishing Tour, American Couples Series, annual Military Team Bass Tournament, ABA Team Series, Top 150 Solo Tour, and Professional League, all presented by Caymas Boats, please visit www.americanbassanglers.com or call (256) 232-0406.
