June 7, 2025 – Shirley, MA – Local angler Sheron Brown of Leominster made the most of his home-lake advantage on May 17th, capturing first place at the American Fishing Tour Division 36 tournament held on Shirley Lake. The event, hosted by American Bass Anglers, brought out some of the best regional talent as anglers competed for cash prizes and crucial points toward divisional and national standings.
Brown led the field with an impressive five-fish limit weighing 17.81 pounds, securing the top spot and a $500 payday. Leveraging his intimate knowledge of the lake, Brown targeted staging areas and isolated cover to trigger bites from larger female bass.
Brown also landed the tournament’s biggest bass—a standout 4.91-pound catch—which earned him an additional $360 in big bass honors.
Close Contenders
Mark Shultz of Tolland, CT claimed second place with a solid bag weighing 15.61 pounds, earning $288. Close behind, Greg Pobieglo of Townsend took third with 15.56 pounds and received $94 for his efforts.
Top 10
Additional strong performances came from top-six finishers Matt Bedigian, Jim Mercier, and Rich Fairman, rounding out a highly competitive event.
Looking Ahead
The next Division 36 event will be held on July 13, 2025, at South Watuppa Lake, launching from the State Ramp in Fall River, MA. Anglers are encouraged to participate as the season progresses toward the divisional Angler of the Year title. Each tournament awards points that could qualify anglers for the ABA AFT Angler of the Year Final Round and a coveted spot at the AFT National Championship.
For more details or to register, contact Division 36 Director Nate Smith at (978) 302-5083 or visit www.americanbassanglers.com.
Special thanks to our local sponsors: Nate Smith Auto Detailing, JWS Roofing, Closer Tackle, JCS Marine, Samatis Baits, and THUMP, whose support makes these events possible.
About American Bass Anglers
American Bass Anglers, committed to providing low-cost, close-to-home tournaments, offers an exciting platform for individual angler progression. With the support of industry-leading companies, ABA continues to advance the sport of bass fishing.
For more information about the American Couples Series, 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.
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
