On March 24, 2024, at Lake Blackshear, Cordele, Georgia, Dewayne Smith from Americus, Georgia, emerged victorious in the American Fishing Tour Division 74 competition. This event is part of the broader American Fishing Tour, which draws skilled anglers from the region to compete for cash prizes, as well as divisional and national ranking points.
Despite challenging conditions characterized by clear skies and turbid waters, Smith successfully caught the limit of fish allowed before the weigh-in deadline. His total catch weighed in at 13.63 pounds, securing him the top position on the leaderboard. Notably, his catch included a 4.74-pound bass, the largest of the tournament, which contributed to his first-place finish and earned him the big fish award, along with a cash prize of $521.
Lane Worsman of Baconton, Georgia, claimed the second-place spot with a total weight of 13.29 pounds, being one of only two competitors to catch the limit. His performance earned him a cash prize of $187. Paul Anthony from Dawson, Georgia, finished in third place with two fish totaling 7.55 pounds, followed by Jimmie Troxell of Cordele, Georgia, in fourth place with four fish weighing 6.99 pounds.
The competition began under cool temperatures but experienced a warming trend as the day progressed. Although the spawning season had commenced, only a few fish related to this phase were caught, indicating a potential increase in activity for the next scheduled event.
The next event in this division is planned for April 13-14, 2024, again at Lake Blackshear. The Gum Creek Ramp in Veterans State Park, Cordele, Georgia, will serve as the launching point for competitors. Those seeking further details about the event or the division are encouraged to contact the local director, Henry Starks, at 478-808-9701 or visit the American Bass Anglers website at www.americanbassanglers.com.
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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 other series, 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, RT Outdoors, 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 Pro League, all presented by Caymas Boats, please visit www.americanbassanglers.com or call (256) 232-0406.
