Honesty lives 8/31/2006
Jim Eldred, CEO of Setyr rods, lost his bank ATM card on a recent Boy Scouts family rafting trip on the Rogue River in Oregon. Before he realized it was missing, he received a call from the people who found floating near the shore.

When his group was ready to launch their rafts, they discovered they were one paddle short, so Eldred drove to a nearby store to rent one. He put his card in the pocket of his swim trunks, and it fell out during the float.

That was last Saturday. On Monday, he received a call from an elderly lady who'd found the card in the water while she and her husband were standing near the shore. She'd looked him up in the phone book.

"I had no idea it was even gone," Eldred said. "It was a Monday morning and I hadn't had to use it since."

He made the 1-hour drive from his home in Grants Pass to the couple's home in Shady Cove and picked up the card.

"It's kind of funny, but I never even found out their name. She came out and gave me the card and I thanked her, and that was it."

What's it all cost? 8/31/2006
BassFan Charles Bowman is back with another BassFan Opinion. This time, he breaks down what it costs to fish a single grassroots-level tournament season, then compares it to the U.S. average household income and expenditures. The numbers are sobering. To read his BassFan Opinion, click here.

Before your fish-off 8/30/2006
A lot of BassFans are probably preparing for their end-of-season championships right now. But it's a busy time of year, so it's easy to gloss over your boat check. Team Evinrude pro Denny Brauer said that's a mistake, because this time of year is when things tend to go wrong on a boat. The wear and tear of a season might loosen bolts, or battery cables, or pump connections. For an inside look at what he does before his boat ever leaves the garage, click here to visit the Team Evinrude page.

Lefebre lets loose 8/30/2006
Pennsylvania FLW pro Dave Lefebre details the equipment and strategy he used to win the recent Potomac Northeastern Stren in a new BassFan Radio interview with Terry Brown. To listen, click here.

Shark week 8/30/2006
First octopuses (octopi?), now sharks. Jay Kumar has a few bass fishing-related observations about sharks that he learned from recent shark week shows. Click here to read his BassFan Opinion, and to get the link to video of an unbelievable shark attack.

PAA/Toyota event details 8/30/2006

• The event will take place April 9–15.
  
• The total purse will be $1 million.
  
• The event will benefit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) and its outdoor-recreation programs.
  
• It's planned as an annual event and is officially titled the Toyota Texas Bass Classic.
  
• Country-music artist Clay Walker will be the headline entertainer (performing April 15), with multiple supporting acts performing throughout the week.
  
• The TPWD Inland Fisheries division will provide technical assistance and support, while the PAA will oversee rules, officials and entry qualifications.
  
• There will be no entry fee.
  
• An official observer will be assigned to each competitor's boat to measure and record each fish caught. The fish will be assigned point values for tabulation. After measurement, the fish will be returned to the lake immediately in observance of slot-limit restrictions. That means the event will not have live fish at the weigh-in – a concept first tested at the tour level at the 2005 Cabela's Top Gun Championship, which also took place in Texas.

BBZ: 'New' and you 8/30/2006
In the latest edition of the Big Bass Zone, columnists Michael Jones and Bill Siemantel tackle last month's ICAST industry trade show. No, they don't name the baits and gear they think is great. And no, they don't pan a bunch of me-too stuff they didn't like.

Instead, they try to define what a "new" bait should do. Does it lock you into a certain way of fishing, or does it expand the way you approach your day? There's more. To read it all, click here to enter the Big Bass Zone.

Catch the FIN 8/30/2006

If you're familiar with Podcasting, the FIN uses a similar delivery system. Subscribers automatically receive new shows, which are downloaded in the background as they use their computer for other tasks. When the show is completely downloaded, it'll be available for viewing. Each broadcast will focus on three topics: fishing destinations, tips and tactics, and product reviews.

Because the FIN uses Polite Background Delivery, you won't notice any disruption or bandwidth hogging – it automatically detects your connection speed and barters accordingly (dial-up included). Two 5-minute shows will download twice monthly, and unlike media streaming (with painful rebuffering), subscribers will be able to view full-screen TV-quality shows right from their harddrive.

Anglers know Wave primarily as a plastics company (think Wave Worms), but chairman Paul Whitman is an investor in innovative technologies. "My goal is to reach anglers around the globe and offer them an informative, cost-effective and exciting multimedia end-user experience highlighting fresh- and saltwater fishing from around the world," Whitman said. "The PC has become a commodity and Wave Industries is leveraging the Internet to highlight the hobby and competitive sport of fishing."

Wave selected Dallas-based Ignite Technologies for the FIN's Internet content-delivery platform. Two personalities will host the channel. One is David Masterson – a producer of numerous fishing shows and a veteran fresh- and saltwater guide. The other is well-known tournament angler and guide Brian Duplechain. Additionally, Wave hired Texas-based Quest Media to build a state-of-the-art production studio at Lake Fork, Texas.

The first two episodes of the FIN are free. To download and view them, visit www.getthefin.com. A subscription costs $24.95 for 1 year, and includes a Wave Worms Tiki-Man T-shirt, and a variety bag of Wave Worms.

Back to the Rock 8/29/2006
Missouri's Wes Endicott won the Heartland Trails Elite Tour Angler of the Year (AOY) title this year, and he also won the final regular-season event at Table Rock Lake. Therefore, he'll be a prohibitive favorite when the circuit stages its championship event at Table Rock in 2 weeks. For more, click here to visit the BassFan Army site.

Cup brackets abandoned 8/29/2006
In a rather unsurprising move, FLW Outdoors today announced that its 2007 Forrest Wood Cup will no longer include the much-maligned (but sometimes praised) bracket format.

The 2007 Cup uses a Bassmaster Classic-like qualification system, where anglers from various FLW Outdoors tours, series and circuits can qualify. Seeding the various anglers, apparently, would have proved unfair.

FLW Outdoors CEO Charlie Evans said: "The NCAA-style bracket format has served us well for many years on the FLW Tour. There is, however, no equitable way to pair anglers in head-to-head competition when they qualify through different circuits. But the bracket will not disappear. We will use the format in our East-West fish-off for the FLW Series."

In summary, here's how the 2007 Forrest Wood Cup pro field will be built:

• Top 40 from the 2007 FLW Tour
  
• Top 30 from the 2006 FLW Series
  
• Top pro from each of the five Stren Series divisions, as decided at the 2006 Stren Series Championship
  
• 2007 BFL All-American winner
  
• 2007 TBF National Championship winner
  
• 1st- and 2nd-place team boaters from 2007 Ranger owners tournaments

The 81 pros will compete for 2 days, after which the Top 10 will advance. Weights will then be zeroed and the best 2-day total from days 3 and 4 will determine the winner.

Coincidence? 8/29/2006

> On Aug. 8 we run a piece about Kelly Jordon and Scott Rook liking the not-yet-released Abu Garcia Revo low-profile reel (read that article again by clicking here).

> On Aug. 13, Jordon wins the Potomac River Bassmaster Elite Series event.

> Two weeks later, Rook wins the next BASS event, last weekend's Major on the Arkansas River.

Coincidence? Hmmm. Was it the article or the reel? Abu thinks it's the reel (see this piece on their web site). As much as our guys like what they write sometimes, we'd have to agree.

Think the folks at Abu Garcia are psyched?

Will Klein make Classic? 8/29/2006

How does Klein feel going into the final event at Table Rock Lake, which begins 3 weeks from now? He's competed in four previous BASS events there. Here's a look:

> 2005 – 112th
> 2004 – 74th
> 1999 – 17th
> 1996 – 1st

So he's won there before, and also tanked once. But note too that each of those four tournaments were in the spring.

"I'm excited about Table Rock," he said. "It's going to be a great tournament from a competitor's standpoint. This whole field is not going to whack them. You won't see everybody catching limits – it'll be tough like the Arkansas River. But I feel it really suits my style of fishing. If I can go there and execute one at a time, I'll do fine."

And he doesn't feel any pressure to preserve his Classic berth. "Whatever happens will happen. All I have to do is go be efficient with my practice, practice smart and get the job done. The most important thing is, when I leave Table Rock, I want to know I gave it my best.

"I'm not even thinking about the Classic. I'm just thinking about catching them. But with the position I'm in, I do know I need a Top 50 to be in for sure."

Clark wins 2nd WBT event 8/28/2006

Clark, a retired U.S. Army staff sergeant and Desert Storm veteran, has won two of the four events conducted so far in the WBT's inaugural season. She also won at Texas' Lewisville Lake in May.

“I wanted to make history, and now I’ve done it,” she said. “On top of winning two, I led on all three days. I’m proud of that.”

The win propelled her from 5th place to the top of the WBT points standings. If she can maintain her lead through the final event Sept. 14-16 at Missouri's Bull Shoals Lake, she'll become the circuit's first Angler of the Year (AOY).

She used a prototype jig (black head, green/black/chartreuse skirt) made by B&M Baits of Albama to catch most of her fish. She employed a Zoom Fat Albert Twin Tail trailer (blue sapphire).

Mize, the wife of Bassmaster Elite Series angler Jimmy Mize, was 2nd with 19-09. Georgia's Paula Alexander was 3rd with 16-08, followed by Colorado's Kelly Shepherd (15-14), Alabama's Kimberlee Striker (13-00) and Georgia's Laura Gober (11-05).

Rook on Radio 8/28/2006
Today on BassFan Radio, Bassmaster Legends champion Scott Rook talks about yesterday's victory, and what it felt like to win in front of a hometown crowd. To listen, click here.

Table Rock reference 8/28/2006
Of course, Missouri's Table Rock Lake is a heavily trafficked fishery. And it's the site of the final Bassmaster Elite Series event of the season, where the Elite Series Angler of the Year title will be decided.

BassFans who want a preview of what the fishing will be like should keep an eye on the Heartland Trails Elite Tour Championship, which takes place at Table Rock the Friday and Saturday before official Elite Series practice begins. Heartland is one of the top Missouri circuits, and a number of hardcore Table Rock sticks will be fishing it.

> To visit the Heartland Trails site, click here.

C.A.S.T. tabs Dyer 8/25/2006

C.A.S.T. for Kids' mission is to provide disabled and disadvantaged children the opportunity to enjoy quality outdoor recreational experiences, and also increase awareness of the capabilities of children with disabilities. Dyer, who was born without legs, a left arm or the lower portion of his right arm, has overcome that handicap to compete on the sport's highest levels.

He was introduced to fishing through a program similar to those conducted by C.A.S.T. for Kids when he was a child. He regularly shares his inspirational story with others to help them overcome the obstacles in their lives and donates a portion of the proceeds from his primary sponsorship with BassFan to the organization.

C.A.S.T. for Kids, organized in 1991, conducts 44 events annually in 22 states and Mexico. To learn more about the organization, click here.

Ohio River...octopus? 8/25/2006
Brought to our attention by a BassFan – and neither he nor we are making this one up. Click here to read about it.

The breakup 8/25/2006
It's Saturday, and once again you head straight for your red-hot ledge. After a few quick bites, the action dies. What's up? The breakup has begun.

As fall approaches, larger fish begin to leave the schools, and you have to follow them. FLW Tour pro Andy Morgan knows just what to do. For his advice, click here to read the latest Pro Fishing Tip.

The Legend's jumpsuit 8/24/2006

Rick Clunn won the 1984 Classic as his father, Holmes, lay in a hospital bed in a near coma. After Clunn's victory – which is still the largest margin of victory in Classic history (25-08) – he dedicated the win to his father, who later recovered from his illness.

BASS founder Ray Scott was there too. And he's at this week's Legends Major 22 years later. After all, the Legends event was named in his honor, and he'll be in the BASS booth at the expo this Saturday and Sunday to meet BassFans and sign autographs.

Scott had the following message for BassFans: "I'd like to extend a personal invitation to each of you to join me at the Bassmaster Legends in Little Rock, Ark. This is a tremendous honor for me – and for the State of Arkansas, since the birth of tournament bass fishing started right on Beaver Lake – and I invite each of you to come help celebrate."

And a very significant piece of history can he had this weekend for the highest bidder. ESPN is holding a special Ray Scott eBay auction to benefit the V Foundation for cancer research. Up for grabs is an original jumpsuit and autographed hat, worn by Scott during the fledgling years of BASS. To view the auction, click here.

If you plan to attend the Legends Major, here are the key details:

> Anglers will launch daily at 6:50 a.m. CT from North River Landing (100 Locust St., Little Rock). Weigh-ins will begin at 3 p.m. each day at the Statehouse Convention Center (100 E. Markham).

> The ESPN Outdoors Expo will take place Saturday and Sunday at the convention center. Doors open at 10 a.m.

> Receive a free gift when you stop by the BASS booth. The first 100 children through the door on Saturday and Sunday receive a free BASS Youth goodie pack, including a rod and reel.

The next level 8/24/2006
If you fish tournaments, at some point you'll probably move up to the next level of competition. When you do, you'll likely experience some intimidation. Anthony Gagliardi did. But he got over it pretty quick. Today on the Team Evinrude page, he provides five in-depth tips that will help anyone step into the next level. To read his advice, click here to visit the Team Evinrude page.

General Al post 8/24/2006
Today's General's Post – by the general of the Skeeter BassFan Army, Al Smith – is about the one thing Al most wants the BassFan Army to be about. What is it? Learn more by clicking here.

Al also wanted to remind everyone that if you want to sign up for the BassFan Army, just go to the sign-up form and fill out all the personal information. When you get to the payment screen, DO NOT fill out any credit card or payment information. Just leave it blank and hit the "Next" button.

You will get an "incomplete" or "credit card error" – simply ignore it. At that point we have your information (you are signed up) and you DO NOT have to pay for 2006. Membership is free through the end of the year.

Skeeter BassFan Army membership means eligibility for product contingency programs, potential participation in member product reviews and, not least, it's a prerequisite for being able to qualify for the Skeeter BassFan Army Weekend Warrior Championship.

ESPN cuts Houston 8/24/2006

An ESPN Outdoors official said: "ESPN Outdoors is speaking with Jimmy Houston about other hosting opportunities in 2007, but the show Jimmy Houston Outdoors will not return. Of course, everyone here wishes Jimmy all the best for the remainder of the 2006 Citgo Bassmaster Elite Series season, and we look forward to working with him in the future."

Houston told BassFan that the show will continue and he's in talks with other major networks about a broadcast package. He expects to announce a new deal soon, perhaps within the week.

"I wish ESPN all the best – they've been fantastic to me for 20 years and I have nothing but the best to say about them – and we'll keep the show going to support all those who have been with us for the past 30 years," Houston said. "We reached 270,000 homes this year on TV, which was a ratings increase of about 36% over last year."

Houston could not comment on which networks he was talking with, but likely candidates include OLN, the Outdoor Channel and FOX.

Yamaha promotes promoters 8/23/2006

Bain joined Yamaha in February 2005 as freshwater promotions coordinator. As senior coordinator, he assumes additional duties to include pro-staff support, sponsor fulfillment and tournament marketing.

Grondzki, who joined the company in 2004, had served as marketing events coordinator. In his new role, he'll be responsible for the development of retail promotions and boat-show promotions, and will continue to oversee trade shows and special events for the Marine Group.

Both Bain and Grondzki will report to promotions and events manager Cindy Thompson.

Versatile Hoernke 8/23/2006

The event, set for Sept. 8-9 near Nashville, Tenn., will feature 12 outdoor professionals (anglers, outfitters, Olympic shooters, etc.) and four amateurs. The amateurs were picked from applications submitted to the magazine by readers.

Competition will be conducted in seven categories: baitcasting, fly casting, ATV skills, endurance, archery, rifle and shotgun.

"I've been training every day, working on some of the other disciplines," the 29-year-old Hoernke said. "My arm is black and blue from shooting several hundred rounds of five-stand (sporting clays) to prepare for the shotgun contest.

"I think if I can win one of the disciplines and be consistent in the others, then I have a chance to win overall. If I don't win the baitcasting competition, I'd better tuck my head and bow out gracefully, because I'll never hear the end of it."

To read more about the competition, click here

Parker leaves Mann's 8/22/2006

"It's bittersweet for me, but it's just the nature of the world these days," he said. "I hate change, but I guess if nothing ever changed I'd still be wearing penny loafers and have long hair.

"It had just gotten to the point where the way I was positioned was incompatible, and it'll be good to be 100% aligned with one company because it cuts down on the confusion.

"And I'll tell you, there's never been a better time for me to be leaving Mann's," he added. "That HardNose is such a simple concept, but it's a killer. They're going to be just fine for a long time to come."

Frank Oelerich has owned Mann's for 21 of the 29 years that Parker was affiliated with the company. Oelerich, a Chicago native, and the North Carolina-bred Parker were an odd-couple pairing in the beginning, but they hit it off nonetheless.

"Down through the years, he's paid back everything we've given him tenfold," Oelerich said. "I might sound like I'm waxing poetic, but he's done so many good deeds for the company and for me personally.

"We've had a wonderful relationship and I consider him one of my best friends. He'd turned down overtures from other companies many times in the past, but the package he got from Berkley was a no-brainer.

"He told me about it and said, 'Frank, I've got to take it.' I said, 'Go for it.'''

Eric Naig, Pure Fishing's field services manager, is excited by the opportunity to work with Parker.

"He's a two-time Classic winner (1979 and 1989), and when you combine our science with his experience, we're going to be turning out some awesome stuff," he said. "He's one of the few true icons of the sport, and it'll be great to have his star power on board."

Tucker on Ark. River 8/22/2006

"I really think if a guy can catch 7 to 8 pounds a day he'll make the Top 12," Tucker said. "There are some big bites here – I had one that looked to be anywhere from 5 1/2 to 7 pounds follow my bait to the boat. And I caught two keepers. But if a guy can catch three or four good fish a day, he'll do real good."

He added that the first day of practice wasn't much better for his roommates Peter Thliveros, Kenyon Hill, Bernie Schultz or Mike Wurm.

Tucker also noted: "I don't think it'll favor the finesse guys. A little jigworm will probably work, but I think the guys who throw a bigger bait and get three bites on that bigger bait will have some healthy fish."

New Skeeters: first look 8/21/2006

• The new ZX series incorporates much of the engineering and design success of the i-Class boats.
  
• The ZX Series now includes modular consoles (the previous consoles were molded). This way, an angler can easily convert from a dual- to a single-console design for resale purposes.
  
• Skeeter redesigned the rear deck of the ZX Series for easier access to storage compartments. This upgrade also added more storage space to rear compartments.
  > The new ZX Series dash features ergonomically enhanced and easier to read push-button gauges, plus space for flush-mount electronics.
  
• Skeeter also removed its standard electronics option so anglers can select the electronics of their choice, including an array of Lowrance and Humminbird products.
  
• A new retractable grab handle for the passenger is standard, as is a new center flip-seat with ice chest and non-skid door.
  
• At the bow, the ZX Series now features a flush-mount graph (135 box-size) and a recessed trolling-motor foot pedal.
  
• Look for all aluminum deck platforms on the ZX Series, which makes the decking stronger. Carpet padding under the front deck is a new option for added comfort.
  
• Several new graphics packages and full-fleck upholstery options are also new.
  
• Skeeter upgraded its standard trailer to its performance package which includes Skeeter cutouts, ratchet tie-downs, covered winch and backup lights.

Skeeter noted that BassFans can look for upgrades to the ZX250 in early 2007.

> For more information on Skeeter, visit www.skeeterboats.com.

Yelas' time off 8/21/2006

He's spent most of the time since the FLW Tour Championship on a family trip to Oregon (the Texas resident is a California native, but he attended Oregon State). The picture at right shows the haul from a salmon-fishing excursion with brother-in-law Craig Bender, 10-year-old daughter Hannah and nephews Brennan, 11, and Cameron, 6, out of Coyote Rock Resort in Lincoln City. That's Jay decked out in Oregon State garb.

He said the kids caught all of the fish (or at least supplied considerable help). The biggest weighed 36 pounds, and the others tipped the scales at 29 and 23 pounds.

"That's what it's all about," he said. "You see a little kid hooked up with a big fish like that, it doesn't get any better."

Pantera II is back 8/18/2006

Bass Cat built more Pantera IIs than any other model in the company's history. The 2007 version will be the first Bass Cat since 1976 without fins or handrails.

The boat has a 19-foot-by-93-inch hull and a 200-hp rating. The floor plan features dual rod lockers and dual storage boxes on the front deck and dual storage and livewell lids on the rear deck.

The Pantera II comes in two package models (Advantage or Premium) in all three engine options.

FLW Tour no-info rule 8/17/2006

In an open letter to anglers posted on the FLW Outdoors website, CEO Charlie Evans implied that the rule was put in place at the request of anglers. Luke Clausen spearheaded a survey of anglers at the Champlain event earlier this summer and reportedly collected about 100 signatures in favor of such a rule.

According to Evans' letter, the rule will read as follows:

"After the entry/balance deadline date for each tournament and during competition days, contestants may not solicit and/or receive fishing information from any non-competitor other than publicly available information.

"Additionally, regarding registration at FLW Tour events, tournament waters will be off limits beginning at 12 p.m. (noon) on Wednesday of the tournament week. Registration will be from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. and the pre-tournament meeting will start at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday."

The FLW Outdoors site doesn't list entry/balance deadlines for 2007 FLW Tour events. For this year, the deadlines were 2 weeks prior to day 1 of the tournament.

The new rule is very similar to the one employed on the FLW Series during its inaugural season this year. Unlike the Tour, the Series has a 12-day off-limits period prior to the tournament, and the no-info rule is in effect during that timeframe.

The FLW Tour had never had an off-limits policy regarding practice prior to the 3-hour period in the new rule. By contrast, the Bassmaster Elite Series has a 30-day off-limits period before the first official practice day (the Monday before the start of the tournament), and Rule 3 (i) also contains the following no-info clause:

"During the 30-day off-limits periods, other than using publicly-available information (e.g. newspaper and Internet reports), pro competitors cannot solicit, receive, or gather any information via phone, electronic devices, or any other means about locating or catching fish on tournament waters."

Clausen, reached by phone on Thursday night, said his survey was intended to show the organization's top brass that most of the anglers favored a no-info rule.

"It wasn't really a petition and we weren't trying to make any demands," he said. "We just wanted to show that most of the anglers felt that way.

"All I know is that I had a conversation about it with Charlie Evans (after taking the survey), and there was a change thereafter. Whether I actually had anything to do with it, I don't know."

Randy Blaukat helped Clausen circulate the survey at Champlain.

"I'd say about 75% of the pros are happy (with the new rule) and 25% aren't happy. But we don't really care about that other 25%, because all this does is increase the credibility of our sport.

"There's no reason for that rule not to be in effect. A lot of anglers have been wanting it because there was a certain number of the top pros that were relying on that type of information for their success. They were hanging around the best locals and learning about their offshore spots and all their little tricks, and it wasn't fair to everybody else."

FLW Tour Angler of the Year (AOY) Anthony Gagliardi said he was among those who'd been hoping such a rule would be put in place.

"I like it," he said. "I think it'll be good for me and good for a lot of other people.

"It'll cut out some people I talk to (who live near tournament venues), but I don't think it'll hurt me in any way. It'll make things more balanced."

Army error message 8/17/2006
Per the BassFan Radio interview with Al Smith, we've been hearing from a lot of people wanting to sign up for the BassFan Army since membership is free through the end of the year. Membership means eligibility for product contingency programs, potential participation in member product reviews and, not least, it's a prerequisite for being able to qualify for the Skeeter BassFan Army Weekend Warrior Championship.

For everyone wanting to sign up, on the sign-up form fill out all the personal information. When you get to the payment screen, DO NOT fill out any credit card or payment information. Just leave it blank and hit the "Next" button.

You will get an "incomplete" or "credit card error" – simply ignore it. At that point we have your information (you are signed up) and you DO NOT have to pay for 2006.

Memberships are valid through Dec. 31, 2006.

Apologies for any confusion.

Healthy competition? 8/17/2006
Ranger Boats founder Forrest L. Wood, the man whom the FLW Tour is named for, had some nice things to say about BASS in an interview in today's edition of The Outdoor Wire.

One of the questions posed to Wood was: "What about the FLW and BASS - you guys battle each other, how do you feel about BASS and FLW? How do you regard BASS?"

Wood responded: "The way I regard it, we need both of them. There's room for more than one circuit and competition's good for any business. BASS people have done a lot for the industry, they've brought it a long ways.

"I don't wish them any bad luck. The FLW has stepped up and given them a run in a lot of areas, and ESPN's big enough they can do about anything they please. There's a little bit of a different angle in the two organizations, and that's good."

To read the entire interview, click here and scroll down.

Scary good 8/17/2006

> He's currently the No. 1 angler in the world according to the BassFan World Rankings.

> Even with a DQ at Santee-Cooper, which put him at dead-last in the field with no Angler of the Year (AOY) points accrued, he's 4th in the BASS AOY race – 124 points behind Mike Iaconelli. So the AOY title is within reach, although he needs some help from those ahead of him.

> He followed up his insane three consecutive Bassmaster Elite 50 wins in 2005 with a 5th at the Bassmaster Classic, then a 6th at Amistad and 3rd at Rayburn.

> He came back after his DQ with a 4th at Guntersville.

> In June and July he fished five events and finished inside the Top 10 four times, including a two 3rds and a 2nd.

Here's what his stat sheet looks like for the 10 Elite Series events and two Bassmaster Majors this year, starting with the most recent event:

Potomac River – 30th
Wylie (Major) – 2nd
Champlain – 9th
Oneida – 3rd
Kentucky Lake – 3rd
Grand – 22nd
Eagle Mountain (Major) – 26th
Clarks Hill – 50th
Guntersville – 4th
Santee-Cooper – 103rd (DQ)
Sam Rayburn – 3rd
Amistad – 6th

Pro shopping secrets 8/16/2006
Like all anglers, New Jersey pro Pete Gluszek is always on the lookout for a great deal on a hot bait. Lures (in most cases, anyway) don't cost as much as houses or cars, but some of the same shopping principles apply. To learn more about how Gluszek goes about finding the best bait deals, click here to visit the Team Evinrude site.

Al talks Army 8/16/2006
Today an BassFan Radio with Terry Brown, Skeeter BassFan Army general Al Smith details some new benefits for Army members, and also covers what's in store over the next few months. To listen, click here.

Skeeter gets F&S award 8/16/2006

The 20i was selected from numerous entries in the boating category for its design, performance and usefulness to sportsmen. The F&S article said the boat had "exceptional stability, both at rest as well as at 70 mph (full throttle with three adults, a full fuel tank, and fishing gear)."

"We are honored to receive this prestigious award from Field & Stream, a leader in the outdoor industry," said Jeff Stone, Skeeter senior VP and GM. "Our goal is always to produce boats that are the best of the best, and we invite owners of other boat brands to come experience the Skeeter difference."

The 20i features sleeker windshields and a curved profile. The wide beam (94 1/2 inches) allows for more deck space, wider seating and a deeper cockpit. It features a recessed foot pedal for trolling-motor operation and a host of standard electronics. Stability and fishability have been trademarks of the brand and have contributed significantly to the structural integrity of the 20i.

The 20i also features a Digital Multifunction System (DMS) to control the boat's electronics. DMS, exclusive to Skeeter, allows the 20i to have i-Force keyless locks that are used to lock/unlock all storage compartment doors from the driver-side touch panel, as well as controlling all electrical components and conducted special diagnostics.

Field & Stream will publish its Best of the Best awards in the September issue. For more information about Skeeter, or to obtain a catalog call (800) SKEETER or click here.

Snake saver? 8/16/2006

The introductory line of the note says it all: "Are you a fan of bass fishing? Bring the lake to your PC or Mac with Aquazone Bass Edition! Marvel at the actions of the bass as they pursue and eat the baitfish. Enjoy the intricate details of the bluegill, rainbow trout, and snakehead!"

Yep, that's snakehead – the invasive species first discovered in Maryland in 2002 that poses a serious threat to America's sportfisheries.

How about a screensaver that shows armies of bloodthirsty largemouths exterminating the hated snakeheads? Now that's something we'd like to see.

Jordon talks tides 8/15/2006
BassFan today published Kelly Jordon's winning pattern from the Potomac Bassmaster Elite Series. But there's more. For additional analysis, tune into BassFan Radio with Terry Brown, where Jordon explains how he attacked the tides. To listen, click here.

The Tak we don't know 8/15/2006

This is the Tak we know:

1/18/2006 – FLWT – Lake Okeechobee – 35
2/8/2006 – FLWT – Lake Murray – 71
3/1/2006 – FLWT – Pickwick Lake – 121
3/9/2006 – Bassmaster – Lake Amistad – 30
3/16/2006 – Bassmaster – Sam Rayburn Reservoir – 8
3/30/2006 – Bassmaster – Santee-Cooper – 22
4/5/2006 – FLWT – Beaver Lake – 10
4/20/2006 – Bassmaster – Lake Guntersville – 6

This is the Tak we don't know:

5/4/2006 – Bassmaster – Clarks Hill Reservoir – 92
5/10/2006 – FLWT – Kentucky Lake – 126
5/18/2006 – Major – Eagle Mountain Lake – 36
6/1/2006 – Bassmaster – Grand Lake – 30
6/15/2006 – Bassmaster – Kentucky Lake – 50
6/21/2006 – FLWT – Lake Champlain – 197
7/6/2006 – Bassmaster – Oneida Lake – 55
7/13/2006 – Bassmaster – Lake Champlain – 85
7/27/2006 – Major – Lake Wylie – 6
8/10/2006 – Bassmaster – Potomac River – 100

Omori has been one of the hottest anglers of the past few years, and still was through April of this year. What happened after that?

"I think I have to learn to fish deep better, but at the same time Denny and Biffle won fishing shallow," he said. "I don't really know why (I'm fishing poorly). I'm just trying to understand."

What's really frustrating for him is that he's been on fish in practice. "Like at the Potomac – I thought I'd be in the Top 3, but I ended up in 100th place. I was catching 3- to 4-pounders (in practice), and really had confidence that first day of the tournament."

He doesn't know what happened, but said: "I'm mad about my performance."

When Kevin VanDam "gets mad at 'em," the fish are in trouble. Will that work for Tak too? Keep watching the standings.

The Legends field 8/14/2006
After the conclusion of yesterday's Potomac Bassmaster Elite Series, BASS released the final list of qualifiers for its upcoming no-entry-fee Bassmaster Legends Major. To view the list, click here, then scroll to the bottom of the story.

Sheehan revives ABA 8/14/2006
Since Morris Sheehan purchased American Bass Anglers in 2000, he's transformed the organization into one of the most successful amateur circuits in the country. To read more, click here to visit BassFanArmy.com.

Ellison on the PAA 8/14/2006
Today on BassFan Radio with Terry Brown, Professional Anglers Association (PAA) executive director Gene Ellison talks about the upcoming PAA event at Lake Fork, plus new sponsorships and recent events in the sport. To listen, click here.

Ish gets metal 8/14/2006

As part Tru-Tungsten's pro team, Monroe will work hand-in-hand with the company to develop trademark products.

Tru-Tungsten is a Fish Harder company, and Fish Harder chairman Tim Gregory said: "Ish has some great ideas that will help every fisherman out on the water and we're going to try to develop some of them over the next year."

"It's more than just cool, it's awesome," Monroe said of the deal. "I'd been using Tru-Tungsten products even before they became my sponsor, but I'd been stealing them from (roommate Mike) Iaconelli."

Monroe also noted he already has a new Tru-Tungsten product in development, but was tight-lipped about the details. "There's going to be stuff coming out with my name on it that should get people real excited," he said. "The first will be something I used this year to win at Amistad, but that's all I can say about it."

Laney on lions, mice 8/14/2006
What does the cancellation of BassCenter, or the departure of BASS VP and GM Don Rucks, say about the state of the sport? Where do the fans play in all of this? Columnist Scot Laney thinks he knows. For his take, click here to read the latest Laney Opinion.

To frog or toad? 8/14/2006
You fish floating tournament-style frogs, and you fish buzz-toads. But when is one better than the other? Chad Morgenthaler has developed a system that works. For his advice, click here to read the newest BassFan Pro Fishing Tip.

ABA Winning Pattern 8/11/2006
Chris Nors won the American Bass Anglers Texas District 50 Championship at Choke Canyon Reservoir. To read about his winning grass pattern, click here.

Bowman on opponents 8/11/2006
BassFan Charles Bowman is back with another BassFan Opinion. This time, he tackles knowledge. Specifically, how much we as anglers actually know about our opponents. For more, click here.

Now here's a BassFan 8/11/2006

He told BassFan that the reason he attended this year's FLWTC was: "I love the sport of fishing and hope to some day be where these pros are." But there's another reason, too. He and his wife named their 6-month-old son Logan Martin, after Lake Logan Martin – site of the FLWTC. He also won a fishing trip with Aaron Martens at nearby Lay Lake "and had a blast."

More good news for Payne. He won the silent auction at the FLWTC and received a signed jersey from champion Brent Ehrler. "We bought it for the baby since it was our son's first time being at the Championship and it (was at) the lake we named him after. I also was able to catch up with Brent after he won to sign the jersey to my son."

Payne noted he doesn't fish competitively now, but hopes to start fishing BFLs soon.

Revamped FLW payouts 8/10/2006
FLW Outdoors distributed an open letter from chairman Irwin Jacobs to FLW Tour anglers late today that announced that the payout schedule for the 2007 Tour has been revised to favor anglers who finish in the Top 40.

At the ICAST show last month in Las Vegas, the organization announced that it would pay $10,000 down to 100th place at its three 2007 opens. Under the new format, the $10,000 payments will end at 60th place.

Anglers who finish 61st through 75th will now receive $7,000, and those placing 76th through 100th will get $4,000.

In the letter, Jacobs wrote that the revisions were made at the request of some Tour anglers.

"I recently received several e-mails and calls from anglers who compete in our FLW Tour events regarding our proposed 2007 tournament payouts," he wrote. "Several weeks ago when our president, Charlie Evans, and our executive vice president, Kathy Fennel, and I were discussing both our schedules and payouts for 2007, I insisted that the payouts for the FLW Tour open tournaments in 2007 include $10,000 payouts down to 100th place.

"It was my thought that with the out-of-pocket costs that FLW Tour anglers incur throughout the season, they would appreciate and welcome the opportunity to recoup much, if not most, of their travel and other expenses during the season if they finished in just half of the tournaments in the top 50% of the field. However, to my surprise, we have heard from a lot of FLW Tour anglers who felt our 2007 proposed payouts were unbalanced and skewed much too rich in payouts toward the bottom of the field and not rich enough to the top of the field."

"After a lot of thought and discussions between Charlie, Kathy and me, we agree with those anglers who have come forth and expressed their opinions regarding our 2007 FLW Tour payouts."

Winners of the $1.5 million opens will still receive $150,000, but the payment for 2nd place is now $75,000 (up $25,000 from the original announcement). Payments to the rest of the Top 10 have been increased by at least $12,000, and prizes have been boosted by at least $1,000 from 11th through 40th places.

Anglers who finish 41st through 60th will still receive $10,000

For the $1 million qualifiers (the other three events on the regular-season schedule) payouts for the Top 2 places remain at $100,000 and $50,000, respectively. Awards to the rest of the Top 10 will be increased by at least $2,500.

From 11th place down to 40th, payouts will go up at least $250. Anglers finishing 41st through 50th will still receive $10,000, but payout amounts go down from there ($2,500 less to places 51 through 60 and $1,850 less to places 61 through 75).

"No doubt, there are probably some of you who fish in our FLW Tour events that would like to see the payouts of $10,000 through 100th place," Jacobs wrote. "However, after hearing from those professional anglers that did come forth, quite frankly, we agree with them.

"All of us involved in professional competitive fishing, both the anglers and the FLW Outdoors organization, are working hard to grow the sport of professional angling and at the same time grow our credibility and our spectatorship. Therefore, we have concluded that it is important that we more heavily reward those anglers that finish in the top of the field to a much greater degree than we originally proposed for the 2007 payouts."

The champ talks baits 8/10/2006
Now on BassFan Radio with Terry Brown, FLW Championship winner Brent Ehrler talks about his winning pattern and the key baits. To listen, click here.

BassCenter banter 8/10/2006
BassFan CEO Jay Kumar, himself a former ESPN2 TV personality, discusses the demise of BassCenter in the lastest BassFan Opinion piece. He has two perspectives on the move – one short-term and one long-term. To read about them, click here.

Sold out no more 8/10/2006

However, according to Mark's, supplies are limited and these finesse worm-type baits are still selling like gangbusters. You want yours? Call now: (205) 822-2010 or toll free, 1-877-979-6275.

Beat the heat 8/9/2006
It's brutal out there. If you're struggling in the heat, WBT pro Emily Shaffer has some great tips for keeping you, and your fish, cool. For more, click here to visit the Team Evinrude page.

Brauer on winning 8/8/2006
Denny Brauer has a different outlook on winning tournaments – one that may surprise most anglers. Today on BassFan Radio, he talks about that outlook, and his recent win at Champlain. To listen, click here.

Jordon's reel caper 8/8/2006

The pros didn't want to give the reels back, but they all did – except one: Kelly Jordon. "I said, 'Heck no,'" Jordon explained. "I told them they could have it back when it broke."

Apparently Jordon sorted through a bunch of demo Abu Garcia reels at the recent ICAST industry tradeshow, and managed to extract a couple more Revos out of the pile (see photo). He calls the three he has now "my babies."

What's the big deal about reels? Click here to read this week's Pro Fishing Tip.

What's the big deal about the new Revo? Find out for yourself. Click here to learn about a special offer, just for BassFans.

Classic pressure grows 8/8/2006
This week's Potomac River Bassmaster Elite Series is the next-to-last of the circuit's 11 points events. Only the Top 36 in the Angler of the Year (AOY) race will qualify for the 2007 Bassmaster Classic, which leaves quite a few anglers with work to do to either maintain their positions within that cutoff mark, or move up to get inside of it.

Kenyon Hill, with 1,675 points, sits on the cut mark right now. Right behind him are Brent Chapman (37th, 1,674), Mike McClelland (38th, 1,661), Todd Faircloth (39th, 1,657) and Rick Clunn (40th, 1,646).

Those who are within the cutoff now but can't afford a major slip-up are Mark Tucker (30th, 1,719), Terry Scroggins (31st, 1,715), Jeff Kriet (32nd, 1,709), Terry Butcher (33rd, 1,699), Randy Howell (34th, 1,690) and Lee Bailey (35th, 1,689).

Howell appears to be the only angler among the trio who were disqualified and received zero points at Santee Cooper who's in any danger of having that penalty cost him a Classic berth. Kevin VanDam (4th in the points) and Alton Jones (22nd) were the other two.

Howell fished solidly prior to the DQ and has been strong since. Meanwhile, VanDam is making another run at the AOY (the chances of that seemed improbable back in April, but this is KVD we're talking about) and is riding a streak of three straight Top 10s in Elite Series events (not to mention a 2nd at the recent Bassmaster American Major).

Jones has bounced back nicely as well, with three Top 20s and no finishes outside the Top 50 since Santee Cooper.

Clunn, who's fished the Classic more times than anybody, can secure his 31st berth by moving up four spots over the next two tournaments.

BassCenter canceled? 8/7/2006
(Posted at 8:55 p.m. EST –Ed.)

Informed sources say that the ESPN Outdoors show BassCenter was canceled effective today. Requests for comment from ESPN Outdoors communications staff were not immediately returned.

When the show debuted in 2005, it was supposed to be the cornerstone of ESPN2's Bass Saturday programming block. Until now, it was still part of the network's Saturday morning lineup of fishing shows.

This is the first action that BassFan is aware of since Steve Anderson, ESPN executive VP of production and technical operations, assumed responsibility of BASS and ESPN Outdoors in June and was given the task of conducting "a thorough review of all outdoors operations with the goal of continuing to enhance our overall performance." Quoted material is from an ESPN internal email.

BassFan has heard rumors of impending personnel changes at ESPN Outdoors/BASS, but nothing could be immediately confirmed. No further information is available at this time.

Catch 'em with Clausen 8/7/2006

She won her choice of 2 days of fishing with Bassmaster Classic champion and Yamaha pro angler Luke Clausen at Missouri's Lake of the Ozarks in October or Alabama's Smith Lake in November. Travel and hotel accommodations are included.

In the photo, she accepts her certificate from Yamaha communications manager Martin Peters while flanked by Clausen.

Their fathers remember 8/7/2006

Mr. Ehrler: "I gave him a fishing rod for Christmas when he was 3 years old. He fished all winter in the pool. From then on, whenever we went anywhere, if there was water around, we knew where he'd be."

He then joked: "Brent, can I have $100 to go to dinner tonight?"

Mr. Gagliardi said: "When he was 4 years old, I was a traveling salesman. My boss came down to go fishing, and Anthony was standing at the door with his rod and tacklebox, crying as we were leaving to go to Santee Cooper. My boss said, 'Mike, I can't go.'

"He (Anthony) loved it so much."

> This was the first tournament Ehrler's parents had ever attended. They chose a good one.

> Gagliardi's father noted that he's never missed one of his son's tournaments. "And I'll never miss one as long as I'm alive," he added.

Catch-up time 8/4/2006
If the summer heat has shut down the bite in your area and you don't plan to fish this weekend, perhaps you'll have time to catch up on some reading. Here are a few recent stories you might have missed.

• Lee Hinesley Jr. of Terre Haute, Ind. broke a 31-year-old state record recently when he caught a spotted bass that weighed 5-05 from a 4-acre private lake. To read about it on BassFanArmy.com, click here.

• Youth anglers from Virginia and Oklahoma took top honors at the National Guard Junior World Championship, held recently at Alabama's Lake Neely Henry as a prelude to the FLW Tour Championship. To read more about the champions and discover whether a youth from your state was among the contenders, click here to find the story on BassFederation.com.

• Mike Black, an Illinois insurance agent, was unhappy with the way his state was treated by some of the Midwestern tournament circuits, so he started his own trail to cater to anglers from the Land of Lincoln. Click here to read about the Illini Team Trail on BassFanArmy.com.

• Rick Scarberry of Missouri had contended for Angler of the Year (AOY) on the Central Pro Am circuit several times in the past, but this year he finally sealed the deal. Consistency was the key – he compiled three Top 10s and never finished outside the Top 20. To read about his season on BassFanArmy.com, click here.

• The Arkansas River isn't the trophy bass fishery it once was, but the state Fish and Game Commission is taking steps to remedy that situation. A 15-inch minimum size limit has been put in place and, with the help of tournament organizations, brood stock have been collected to produce offspring for future release into the river. Click here to find the story on BassFederation.com.

• A longstanding state law that prohibits culling in Wisconsin might be lifted, pending the outcome of a study by the Department of Natural Resources. Wisconsin Bass Federation president Mike Hoffman said the outcome will likely boil down to a battle between those who support tournament fishing and those who are against it. Click here to read more about the issue on BassFanArmy.com.
  
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Schwenkbeck speaks 8/4/2006
Bassmaster Elite Series Angler Darren Schwenkbeck talks about the financial aspects of fishing as a pro and about winning the recent Mississippi River Bassmaster Northern Tour in a new BassFan Radio interview with Terry Brown. To listen, click here.

Murray joins Powell 8/3/2006

Powell president Keith Bryan said of the deal: "To have such a quality fisherman, as well as a personable and great guy, onboard with Powell really elevates this company to a whole other level. We're fortunate and excited to have such a well-rounded angler working with our rod-design team on new and cutting-edge products now and into the future."

Murray said: "Powell has some of the best rods in the market, with a great vision for the future of bass fishing. I'm very happy to be onboard with such a great product, and a company with such a strong tradition that will stand behind their products."

Namiki's last U.S. event? 8/3/2006

It looks like his U.S. fishing career will come to abrupt halt this week though. He told BassFan that this event will be his last in the U.S. for the foreseeable future. He plans to return to Japan for the next few years in order to fulfill sponsor obligations. In short, those sponsor obligations to companies like Daiwa, Sunline and Fina allowed him to fish the U.S. for the past 4 years, but they also included stipulations that he'd eventually have to return to do promotional work in Japan.

"I have to go back to Japan," he said. "I have contracts with Japanese sponsors that say I have to stay and do promotion work in Japan. They (my sponsors) wanted to me to do it this year, but I said, 'Please wait one more year.'"

He will occasionally travel back to the U.S., but won't fish. "I will come back to the U.S. to see everybody," he said. "I want to keep in touch. Maybe I will come for some TV shows."

About giving up the Tour, he said: "I'm half-and-half – happy and disappointed. The reason I agreed to those contracts is I will be 40 years old this year, and I have family in Japan – parents. So I thought that maybe it's time to stay in Japan and take care of that."

Finesse the thick stuff 8/3/2006
Arkansas pro Mike Wurm often uses spinning tackle in pursuit of big fish in heavy cover. He says there are times when specialized finesse tackle can produce big bags, even when most of your competitors have flipping sticks in their hands. To learn more about how he catches big fish with little baits, click here to visit the Team Evinrude page.

Wolak's new world 8/3/2006
Pennsylvania's Dave Wolak talks about his newborn son and winning the Bassmaster Major at Lake Wylie in a new BassFan Radio interview with Terry Brown. To listen, click here.

KVD and ET 8/3/2006
In case you missed yesterday's BassFan World Rankings update, check out this stat: Kevin VanDam has finished in the Top 10 an unbelievable 64% of the time this year.

Not just in the money, but in the Top 10.

Is KVD human? Phone home!

FLWTC ups and downs 8/2/2006
Some lower-seeded anglers caught strong bags on day 1 of the FLW Tour Championship (FLWTC) at Lake Logan Martin in Alabama, and a few of the favorites struggled. For reports on some of the competitors who were not covered in the main story, click here.

Herren prepares 8/2/2006
Now on BassFan Radio with Terry Brown, Alabama's Matt Herren tells BassFans that he's ready for the FLW Tour Championship, and that a home-field advantage is a "good thing." To listen, click here.

Test-drive a 'Tec 8/1/2006
Bombardier Recreational products (Evinrude) and Ranger will offer bass and boating enthusiasts a chance to test-drive Evinrude E-Tec engines and Ranger boats hassle-free on Saturday in conjunction with the FLW Tour Championship. The tournament gets under way Wednesday at Logan Martin Lake in Alabama.

BRP VP and GM Roch Lambert said, "Giving consumers the opportunity to run our product is so important. Explaining the technology is one thing, but being able to feel the power and hear the quiet-running engine tells the whole performance story. Everyone is impressed when they step off the boat."

The event is open to the public and hosted by a local Evinrude and Ranger dealer. And there's a bonus for those who participate. Consumers who purchase a Ranger powered by an Evinrude E-Tec within 60 days of attending a test-drive event receive 5 years of engine protection and a Ranger boat cover. (Official rules available at test-drive events).

Morgenthaler's special T 8/1/2006

The event, which takes place Sept. 30 and Oct. 1 at Rend Lake in southern Illinois, will benefit Special Olympics Illinois athletes.

The weekend includes the 2-day team-format tournament, "beat the pro" fishing and casting contests, a family fun zone and a chance to win prizes. Other pros to participate include Greg Pugh, Terry Tucker and Terry Bolton.

Morgenthaler first became involved with the Special Olympics last year when he donated a day-long fishing trip as part of an online benefit auction. This year's tournament marks a significant increase in his involvement.

"I was inspired by the courage and enthusiasm shown by the Special Olympics athletes," Morgenthaler said. "After talking more with Special Olympics Illinois, we agreed a fishing tournament would be an exciting way to introduce the organization and its athletes to a previously untapped audience of fishermen.

"We currently have three great pros who have agreed to participate and are expecting more to come onboard," he added. "We plan to make this an annual event and hope to make it the largest charity fishing event in the state in the future."

> Entry is limited to the first 200 boats to register. The $200-per-boat entry fee includes the big-bass pot.

> For entry forms or more information, contact Jeff Henson at Special Olympics Illinois: (800) 394-0562, jhenson@soill.org, soill.org.

Pirch of the West 8/1/2006
Today on BassFan Radio with Terry Brown, Arizona pro Cliff Pirch talks about being a westerner and the advantages it could bring at this week's FLW Tour Championship. To listen, click here.

Frog hook look 8/1/2006

Top Gun/WWC postponed 8/1/2006
Today BassFan announced that its 2006 Top Gun Championship and Skeeter BassFan Army Weekend Warrior Championship, slated for September in the Dallas/Ft. Worth, Texas area, will now be held in May 2007. The championships had to be delayed because of extremely low water levels due to a severe drought in the area.

"We're obviously disappointed that we had to move the events," said BassFan COO Scot Laney, "and we apologize to the anglers and fans who had planned on being there. But these are the cards Mother Nature has dealt us. We're looking forward to a wet spring and showing off these unique tournaments in Texas in May."

He added: "It's been a tough decision process, and we very much appreciate the understanding and flexibility of the Texas Stampede and Skeeter Boats, our partners in these events, in allowing us to postpone them."

Launched last year, Top Gun features the top-ranked professional bass fishermen in the world according to the BassFan World Rankings, and Weekend Warrior features the top-performing weekend bass fishermen from North America's best local and regional trails. Both championships join the Stampede Season lineup of charitable events, which includes: the Interstate Batteries Texas Stampede rodeo and concert weekend; La Riata Gala and Texas Hold'Em Poker Tournament; Children's Medical Center Christmas Stampede; and Stampede Cattle Drive.

Joel Williams, executive director of the Stampede, said, "Water levels are dangerously low in our local lakes. Since our primary objective is to raise money for Children's Medical Center, if postponing the event until May will allow for a better event, we support that decision."

Jeff Stone, senior VP and GM of Skeeter Boats, stated: "We fully support the decision and feel that next spring will deliver a much more favorable environment on local lakes. We look forward to great events for both pros and weekend warriors in each of these championships."

Added Al Smith, BassFan's VP of membership programs, "While I am disappointed we are delaying the events, from my standpoint this is actually a little fortuitous. The BassFan Army, which is now the nation's largest grassroots tournament bass fishing membership program, will be bigger and better than ever in 2007, and next year's Skeeter Weekend Warrior Championship will be an important part of that."

Texas Stampede is a 501(c)(3) organization that seeks to raise substantial funds for Children's Medical Center, one of the top 25 pediatric hospitals in the nation as recognized by U.S.News & World Report, by organizing and conducting a variety of unique family events that are part of Stampede Season each fall in Dallas. Since its inception in 2001, the organization has contributed more than $2.5 million for pediatric programs associated with Children's Medical Center. For more information on Texas Stampede, visit www.texasstampede.org.