AMERICUS, Ga. – Dwayne Smith of Americus, Georgia, captured the win at the American Fishing Tour (AFT) Division 74 tournament on April 12, 2025, at Lake Blackshear. Smith brought an impressive five-bass limit to the scales, weighing 20.28 pounds, anchored by a 6.63-pound largemouth that also earned him Big Bass honors. For his first-place finish and big fish award, Smith took home $432.
Finishing second was Brett Mathis of Warwick, Georgia, with a five-fish limit totaling 15.66 pounds, including a 4.38-pound kicker. Mathis secured the runner-up spot and a $223 payout.
Matthew Blackwell of Warner Robins, Georgia, claimed third place with a 13.29-pound limit, anchored by a 4.56-pounder. His efforts earned him $79.
Donald Brooks of Dublin, Georgia, finished fourth with a five-bass limit weighing 12.80 pounds, highlighted by a 4.10-pound fish. Ken Young of Vienna, Georgia, rounded out the top five with a 11.85-pound limit, featuring a 3.09-pound catch.
Top Five Finishers:
- Dwayne Smith – 20.28 lbs (Big Fish: 6.63 lbs) – $432
- Brett Mathis – 15.66 lbs – $223
- Matthew Blackwell – 13.29 lbs – $79
- Donald Brooks – 12.80 lbs
- Ken Young – 11.85 lbs
The next AFT D74 tournament will take place on April 29, 2025, at Lake Blackshear, launching from the Gum Creek Ramp.
Anglers competing in these events earn valuable points toward the Divisional Angler of the Year title. Each division’s points champion advances to the AFT Angler of the Year Final Round at the American Fishing Tour National Championship. Additionally, the top 500 anglers nationwide qualify to fish the three-day AFT National Championship, scheduled for this fall on Lake Eufaula, Alabama.
The American Fishing Tour is designed for weekend anglers looking for competitive yet affordable events close to home. Anglers fish for both cash and points with a clear path to divisional and national recognition.
For more information on Division 74 or upcoming events, contact Director Henry Starks at 478-808-9701 or visit www.americanbassanglers.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 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
