October 5, 2024, Cordele, Georgia. Derreck Burnam of Byromville, Georgia, secured a hard-fought win at the American Fishing Tour Division 74 event held at Lake Blackshear on October 5, 2024. Competing against top anglers from the region, Burnam outperformed the field with a total catch of 11.74 pounds, earning him first place and a cash prize of $249. Despite challenging muddy water conditions, Burnam successfully filled his limit before the weigh-in.
Dwayne Smith of Americus, Georgia, claimed second place with a total catch of 10.95 pounds, taking home $79 in prize money.
In third place, Henry Starks from Byron, Georgia, impressed with a 9.09-pound catch, which included a 4.33-pound bass that earned him Big Fish honors.
Kenneth Young of Vienna, Georgia, finished fourth with a 4-fish total weighing 8.96 pounds, while Harry Cooper rounded out the top five with a 6.50-pound total from his 4-fish catch.
The top five anglers for the event were:
- Derreck Burnam – 11.74 lbs
- Dwayne Smith – 10.95 lbs
- Henry Starks – 9.09 lbs (Big Fish: 4.33 lbs)
- Kenneth Young – 8.96 lbs
- Harry Cooper – 6.50 lbs
Anglers noted that the water conditions played a critical role in the day’s fishing strategies, making this win even more rewarding for Burnam.
The next event in Division 74 is set for October 26, 2024, at Lake Blackshear, launching from the Gum Creek Ramp at Veterans State Park in Cordele, Georgia. For more information, please contact local director Henry Starks at 478-808-9701 or visit www.americanbassanglers.com.
Anglers in this division continue to accumulate points toward the coveted Angler of the Year title. Points champions from each division will qualify for the American Bass Anglers AFT Angler of the Year Final Round at the AFT Championship. Additionally, the top 500 anglers across all divisions will secure their spot in the three-day ABA, AFT National Championship tournament.
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.
American Bass Anglers is proud to be sponsored by Caymas Boats, Mercury Marine, T-H Marine, Power Pole, WattCycle Batteries, Hotel Planner.com, and LurePartsOnline.com.
