Elite Series pro Randy Howell caught a 16-12 sack today to take over the lead at the James River Bassmaster Northern Open with a 2-day total of 32-07.
The Alabamian is in 60th place in the Elite Series standings with three events remaining and will have a tough time making next year's Classic at Lake Guntersville in his home state via that route. A victory at the James would rectify that situation.
"That's why I came this far – just to have a chance," he said.
Former tour pro Mike Hicks also caught 16-12 on day 2 and moved into 2nd place. The key to his success has been one particular bait, which he declined to name.
“It’s a very popular bait on this river,” he said. “And all I can say is that color means a lot.”
Here are the totals for the anglers who'll return to the water for day 3:
1.Randy Howell: 32-07
2. Mike Hicks: 31-03
3. Wayne Vaughan: 13-11
4. Mike Iaconelli: 29-01
5. Kelly Pratt: 28-08
6. Jim Dillard: 28-06
7. Tracy Adams: 28-01
8. Steven Colgin: 27-09
9. GregCooper: 27-06
10. Justin Lucas: 27-06
11. Brandon Palaniuk: 26-11
12. Pete Gluszek: 26-03
