March 2025 – Lake Weiss, AL Bret Harrell claimed victory at the Lake Weiss season opener, weighing 20.26 pounds of Coosa River bass to earn a $2,300 check and a trophy. He targeted staging areas near spawning zones, using shallow-water search baits to land his winning catch.
Josh George of Monroe, Georgia, took second place with 17.78 pounds of bass, securing a $1,000 prize and a plaque. He relied on a spinnerbait and crankbait, with his bigger fish hitting the crankbait in areas close to the lake’s spawning grounds.

Don Hill of Alexandria, Alabama, finished third with 16.62 pounds of Coosa River bass, earning a $750 payout and a plaque. He caught his fish in five feet of water or less using a chatterbait, squarebill crankbait, shaky head, and jig, targeting areas near spawning zones in 59-degree water.
Billy Hughey of Dalton, Georgia, landed a 6.60-pound largemouth as part of his 13.59-pound bag, winning the Big Bass award of $200 and a plaque. He caught his fish on a jig near spawning areas around structure and docks.
WattCycle Battery Set Winner – Bradley Jones

Top Performances:
- Bret Harrell – 20.26 lbs – $2,300
- Josh George – 17.78 lbs – $1,000
- Don Hill – 16.62 lbs – $750
- Billy Hughey – 13.59 lbs (6.60-lb Big Bass) – $200
Lake Weiss, a 30,200-acre Alabama Power Company impoundment on the Alabama-Georgia border, is known for its robust fishery, a key economic driver for Cherokee County. The lake offers four free public access points, 37 private marinas, and various campgrounds, motels, and rental cabins along its shoreline. With an average depth of 10 feet, the water typically remains stained rather than clear.
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.
For more information, visit www.americanbassanglers.com or call (256) 232-0406