Smallwood State Park, MD – May 31, 2025 — Jeremy Radford of Huntly, Pennsylvania, took top honors at the first American Bass Anglers Professional League event of the 2025 season, held May 31 out of Smallwood State Park on Maryland’s renowned Potomac River. Radford brought in a five-fish limit weighing 17.40 pounds, securing the win and a $2,450 cash prize.
“All of my fish came from the southern portion of the Potomac, mostly covering water with a bladed jig,” Radford said. “I focused on docks and hard cover and just grinded it out. I kept it simple and stayed committed.”
A tidal fishery known for its vegetation, hard cover, and diverse shoreline, the Potomac River presents a unique challenge to anglers. Changing water levels and current direction can dramatically influence the bite. Anglers often need to adjust tactics throughout the day, and Radford’s ability to stay consistent proved to be the difference-maker.
Otis Darnell of Linden, Virginia, claimed second place with a strong 17.00-pound limit, earning $1,200 in cash. “I was bed fishing most of the day and covered a lot of water with a bladed jig,” Darnell said. “I like to chunk and wind and just keep moving until I find them.”
Rounding out the top three was Joe Zombeck of Scranton, Pennsylvania, with 16.05 pounds. Fourth place went to Brody Campbell of Oxford, Ohio, with 15.55 pounds, followed closely by Tom Bateman of Welcome, Maryland, who landed in fifth with 15.02 pounds.
Joe Spano took home Big Bass honors with a 4.86-pound kicker that helped boost his overall standing and earned him an additional cash bonus.
The Potomac River continues to be a favorite among ABA anglers, offering a mix of shallow grass, laydowns, and tide-driven structure. This season opener demonstrated once again why the historic river remains a staple in professional-level competition.
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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
