November 16, 2024 – Cordele, Georgia, Scott Nichols of Leesburg, Georgia, secured a commanding win at the American Fishing Tour Division 74 event on Lake Blackshear on October 26, 2024. This tournament, part of the American Fishing Tour, drew GA anglers from across the region, each vying for cash prizes and critical divisional and national points.
Nichols delivered a standout performance, bringing in a five-fish limit weighing 20.89 pounds, including a 5.49-pound kicker. His impressive catch earned him first place and a cash prize of $451. Despite challenging low-water conditions, Nichols completed his limit well before weigh-in, showcasing his skill and adaptability.
Shannen Kitchens of Americus, Georgia, took second place, earning $254 with a five-fish total of 15.03 pounds, highlighted by a 4.09-pound kicker. Donald Brooks of Dublin, Georgia, secured third with a five-fish haul weighing 14.68 pounds. Jeff Kight of Americus, Georgia, took 4th place and brought in a five-fish limit of 14.15 pounds, anchored by a 4.09-pound kicker. DeWayne Smith of Americus, Georgia, rounded out the top five with a five-fish total of 13.72 pounds.
Brett Mathis claimed the Big Fish award with an impressive 5.63-pound catch, further highlighting the high level of competition.
Top Ten Anglers:
- Scott Nichols – 20.89 lbs.
- Shannen Kitchens – 15.03 lbs.
- Donald Brooks – 14.68 lbs.
- Jeff Kight – 14.15 lbs.
- DeWayne Smith – 13.72 lbs.
- Sam Moody – 13.52 lbs.
- Wayne Goff – 12.51 lbs.
- Brett Mathis – 12.05 lbs. (Big Fish: 5.63 lbs.)
- Johnathon Hughes – 10.99 lbs.
- Henry Starks – 9.89 lbs.
Anglers agreed that the low-water conditions significantly influenced fishing strategies, adding an extra layer of challenge to the competition.
Upcoming Event
The next Division 74 tournament is scheduled for December 14, 2024, at Lake Blackshear. Anglers will launch from the Gum Creek Ramp at Veterans State Park in Cordele, Georgia. For additional details, contact Division Director Henry Starks at (478) 808-9701 or visit www.americanbassanglers.com.
These anglers earn valuable points toward the divisional angler of the year title. The points champion from each division will compete in the annual American Bass Anglers AFT Angler of The Year Final Round at the AFT Championship. In addition, the top 500 anglers from the various divisions will earn the right to compete in the three-day ABA AFT National Championship tournament to be held in October 2025 on Lake Eufaula.
These tournaments are crucial for anglers as they accumulate points toward the coveted Divisional Angler of the Year title. Points champions from each division will compete in the American Bass Anglers AFT Angler of the Year Final Round, held at the AFT Championship. Additionally, the top 500 anglers from all divisions will qualify for the three-day ABA AFT National Championship, taking place next October on Lake Eufaula.
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.
