Jay Melton of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, secured the win at the recent bass tournament held on Percy Priest Lake with an impressive five-fish limit totaling 19.79 pounds—all Smallmouth. Melton edged out the competition with a 2.29-pound lead and earned a check for $1,850 along with a first-place trophy. He reported targeting fish in slightly deeper water, ranging from four to six feet, and credited his success to a combination of red Tarp baits and white swimbaits that produced multiple quality bites throughout the day.
Finishing in second place was Scott Brummett of Brentwood, Tennessee, with a total weight of 17.50 pounds. Brummett earned $900 and a runner-up plaque. He caught his fish in shallower water, between two and four feet, using red crankbaits and white swimbaits. While he had consistent action throughout the day, he was unable to find a kicker fish to challenge for the win.
Bryden P. Mugleston of Mount Juliet, Tennessee, claimed third place with 15.55 pounds, anchored by a 4.21-pound Smallmouth. He earned a payout of $700. Mugleston located his fish in two to three feet of water, using a Wobble Head jig and a shad-colored lipless crankbait.
The tournament’s Big Bass honors went to Jerry Seay of Madison, Tennessee, who landed a 4.62-pound Smallmouth. His efforts earned him a $150 prize and a Big Bass plaque. Seay caught the trophy fish on a red Rattle Trap in shallow water and finished the day with two keepers totaling 8.82 pounds.
Although just outside the money, angler Chris Fondren walked away with a valuable prize—a set of trolling motor lithium batteries courtesy of tournament sponsor WattCycle Batteries.
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About Percy Priest Lake
Percy Priest Lake, located just east of Nashville, Tennessee, is a 14,200-acre reservoir managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Known for its clear waters and rocky structure, the lake offers prime habitat for Smallmouth and Largemouth bass, making it a popular destination for both recreational and competitive anglers. With a variety of depths, offshore ledges, and submerged points, Percy Priest provides year-round fishing opportunities. Spring tournaments often see strong Smallmouth catches, particularly on reaction baits and swimbaits fished along shallow flats and transition areas.
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
