CHANNAHON, Ill. — July 19, 2025 – Hunter Petrovic of Minooka, Illinois, delivered a commanding performance to win the American Fishing Tour Division 39 event. Launching from Big Basin Marina near Channahon, Petrovic brought in an impressive five-fish limit weighing 10.95 pounds to secure the top spot. He also earned Big Bass honors with a 2.87-pound kicker, capping off a dominant day on the water. For his efforts, Petrovic took home $387 in prize money.
Anglers faced difficult conditions, with recent tournament pressure and a passing thunderstorm compounding an already challenging bite. With temperatures soaring into the 90s, only two anglers managed to bring in full five-fish limits.
Finishing in second place was Dave Blume of Bloomington, Illinois, who also weighed a five-fish limit totaling 6.06 pounds, earning $153. Blume also serves as the local tournament director.
The next stop for Division 39 will be on August 9, 2025, at Pool 12 of the Mississippi River, launching from Mid-Town Marina in East Dubuque.
Anglers competing in these events earn valuable points toward the divisional Angler of the Year title. Each divisional points champion will qualify for the exclusive Angler of the Year Final Round held during the American Fishing Tour National Championship. Additionally, the top 500 anglers nationwide will be invited to compete in the prestigious three-day ABA AFT National Championship this fall on Lake Eufaula.
The American Fishing Tour is designed for the weekend angler, offering affordable, close-to-home tournaments that allow competitors to fish for both prize money and points.
For more information on upcoming events, visit www.americanbassanglers.com or contact local director Dave Blume at (309) 824-9999. National inquiries can be directed to ABA headquarters at (256) 232-0406.
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 and other series, visit www.americanbassanglers.com or call (256) 232-0406.
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, please visit www.americanbassanglers.com or call (256) 232-0406.