Fitzpatrick takes 2025 Toyota Series Championship by tiebreaker on Grand Lake

Fishing near home, Roger Fitzpatrick had family on hand for the win. Photo by Rob Matsuura

By Jody White, Toyota Series 

GROVE, Okla. – The final day of the Toyota Series Championship Presented by Phoenix Boats on Grand Lake will go down as one of the tightest of all time. Entering Championship Saturday, four Ozark stalwarts were ounces apart – in theory shooting it out with jigs and spinnerbaits for the win. Then, the power fishing bite crumbled, and Drew Gill, Tucker Smith and Riley Harris blitzed up the leaderboard, picking off fish after fish with forward-facing sonar.

At weigh-in, Smith and Gill both weighed over 14 pounds, by far the biggest bags of the day. But, with 11 pounds, 7 ounces, Roger Fitzpatrick had just enough to hang on, moving up from second to first with 41-1 and beating Gill for the win via tiebreak, which is previous day’s standing first and then heaviest single-day catch, both of which favored the veteran angler.  

For the win, which is his 13th with MLF in nearly 250 events, Fitzpatrick took home $200,250 plus a berth in REDCREST 2026 – which just to happens to be at Table Rock Lake, where he’s won twice before with MLF. Though Fitzpatrick had come oh so close many times in the Phoenix Bass Fishing League All-American, he’d never won it or a Toyota Series event until now. Throw in a Fishing Clash Angler of the Year title in the Plains Division, and it’s clear that Fitzpatrick waited until age 61 to have his best year yet.

Fitzpatrick is sure the win was meant to be

As someone who has been cashing checks with MLF/FLW since 1995, Fitzpatrick has plenty of experience when it comes to winning, but he’s probably going to need to fish for another 30 years or so to replicate this one.

TOP FINISHERS BELOW

2024 Mercury BASS National Qualifier on Lake Eufaula Day 1: Canadian Jamie Bruce Secures Lead!

Christopher Decker

BASS Press Release

EUFAULA, Ala. — Jamie Bruce got a taste of redemption on Day 1 of the Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier at Lake Eufaula presented by Lowrance by catching a limit weighing 20 pounds to lead the field of 152 boaters.  

Bruce has a 15-ounce advantage over his Wisconsin roommate Adam Rasmussen, while Alabama’s Allan Glasgow is third with 18-7. Glasgow also landed the Big Bass of the Day, a 6-6 largemouth. 

It was a beautiful day, but the fishing was stingy, as just 43 limits were weighed in by boaters and only 11 limits were recorded by non boaters. Temperatures will continue to rise during the tournament with calm conditions expected for Day 2. 

Lake Eufaula was responsible for Bruce’s second-worst finish of his Bassmaster Opens Elite Qualifiers slate in 2023, an event that likely kept him from punching his ticket for this year’s Bassmaster Elite Series. With a baby on the way, Bruce knew he couldn’t compete in the EQ race this year, but he wanted to make a trip south to give him a break from the cold Canadian winter. 

“I had never really missed the boat on anything that much before that tournament,” Bruce said. “I fished that one with no LiveScope. It was broken and I couldn’t get a replacement. So I fished that one with no front graph, went shallow and got my teeth kicked in. 

2022 BASSMASTER TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP Smith and Kimbrell shut the door at Lake Hartwell

Even when everything goes right, it’s hard enough to hold off a 250-boat field to win a tournament like the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Team Championship.
If you cut the final day’s fishing time by nearly 50%, the task gets that much harder.
Collin Smith and Brady Kimbrell powered through a fog-shortened tournament on Lake Hartwell, however, and won the team championship with a two-day total of 10 bass weighing 30 pounds, 13 ounces. The duo caught 16-10 on Day 1 and followed with 14-3 a day later to seal the win.
While those aren’t huge numbers, they’re impressive considering Thursday’s start was delayed by three hours and fifteen minutes because of dense fog. Day 1 also started late, by some 90 minutes, further cutting into the time teams had to ply Hartwell’s bass-rich waters.

Bill C-71: An Act to Amend Certain Acts and Regulations in Relation to Firearms

The Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters (OFAH) supports firearms legislation measures that increase the public safety of Canadians, as long as it doesn’t implement further unnecessary restrictions or barriers on law-abiding firearms users.

The government’s stated intention of Bill C-71 is to prioritize public safety and respond to increasing trends in gun crime and violence, yet it would seem that the majority of the proposals are focused on lawful firearms users. The government is painting a picture of alarming trends in firearms-related crime and violence to justify the proposed measures and to show action on election platform promises of 2015. Unfortunately, targeting lawful firearms users will not help them achieve their intended goals.

The stats being used to support the need for Bill C-71 reference 2013 (lowest criminal homicides in 50 years) as a baseline to suggest we have a growing problem with firearms in Canada. However, the facts show a long-term decline in firearm-related crime.

For decades, the OFAH has been pushing the federal government to invest in programs and policy that targets illegal firearms and actual criminal activity, rather than policy that has the effect of making criminals out of law-abiding firearms owners. The investments announced by the Government of Canada in 2017 to fight gangs and gun violence are a step in the right direction; however, this ‘complementary bill’ will do little to achieve the government’s stated goals.

Roland and Scott Martin Win 2018 Black Bass PanAmerican Championship on Lake Okeechobee Day!

Super slow speed anchors USA win.
FLW PRESS RELEASE

Biggest limit and 7 pounder rockets Martins into lead.
(Photos: FLW)

Roland Martin wasn’t happy about fishing with the flu, but his fatigue literally enlightened him and his son Scott Martin to a key detail that sparked an impressive come-from-behind victory with a two-day weight of 15.51 kg (34 pounds, 3 ounces) at the inaugural PanAm Black Bass Championship at Roland and Mary Ann Martin’s Marina & Resort on Lake Okeechobee.

After placing 10th on day one with a disappointing limit of 4.99 kg (11 pounds), the father/son duo roared back with a day-two limit of 10.52 kg (23-3) – the tournament’s biggest catch, which included a 7-pound, 3-ounce kicker that won the Big Bass trophy. The key, Roland says, was speed.

“You have to learn to be humble; we don’t always catch fish, and yesterday [Wednesday] was a good example,” says the nine-time Bassmaster Angler of the Year. “But we figured something out, and one of the main reasons we caught fish today was that I was extremely sick with the flu and I sat on the ice chest. I’d occasionally cast and reel it very slowly and hardly do anything. But the big fish liked that.”

After fishing the Monkey Box on the lake’s west side on day one, the Martins ran south to Kreamer Island on day two, but found the area uncooperative. With only two pound-and-a-half fish by 10 a.m., they returned to the Monkey Box area, fished the reeds and experienced a furious rally that transformed a dismal day into pure fireworks.

“We got into this one spot and, in one hour, we caught all those big fish,” Roland says.

Team Canada

Scott says their day-two productivity came from an area he had never fished until the FLW Tour event two weeks ago. With the spawn in full swing, the week’s warming trend triggered a shallow move, but these moody and sensitive fish require stealthy and strategic approach. Scott says he enjoyed promising practice results, but the Big O is known for its day-to-day changes.

RESULTS BELOW

Funding for Dave Chong

Click here to link to GoFundMe page for Dave Chong.

IBASSIN.com friend Dave Chong is seeking assistance for this newly created PAN American Black Bass Championship at Lake Okeechobee, Florida in February. The tournament has no prize money meaning that all anglers will be out of pocket to fishing for their country. Go Canada Go!

Tom Brooke Receives Honourary Membership in Canadian Parliamentary Outdoor Caucus

Former Shimano Canada V.P. honoured

Keep Canada Fishing press release

The Parliamentary Outdoor Caucus of Canada has named Tom Brooke, former President of the Canadian Sportfishing Industry Association (CSIA), an Honourary Member of the Caucus.

The announcement was made in Ottawa on Tuesday December 5^th at the Annual General Meeting of the Parliamentary Outdoor Caucus.

Tom is credited as the inventor of the Shimano Live Release Boats in the mid-1980s, versions of which operate today to ensure that millions of tournament-caught fish in North America are released alive and unharmed to their home waters.

“I am honoured to be able to recognize the dedication that Tom Brooke has to fishing and all of Canada’s outdoor heritage activities,” said Bob Zimmer, Member of Parliament for Prince George-Peace River-Northern Rockies and Co-Chair of the Parliamentary Outdoor Caucus. “He exemplifies everything that the Parliamentary Outdoor Caucus stands for and, as someone who I have known for many years, I am very pleased to welcome him as an honourary member.”

Tom Brooke is well known in recreational fishing circles throughout North America especially in his previous role of V.P. Operations for Shimano Canada. Also, he is no stranger to Parliament Hill as member of the CSIA Government Affairs Committee.  “Having been associated with the Parliamentary Outdoor Caucus for a number of years,” stated Brooke, “I have come to appreciate the hard work and dedication so many MP’s put into their work not only for our great outdoors but on behalf of all Canadians through their public service. To be made an honourary member of such an outstanding group of men and women is a real honour.”

CSFL to Run FLW Canada Tournaments in 2018

CSFL & FLW join forces in 2018
By Luigi De Rose

On Friday, October 20, 2017, FLW formally announced that CSFL will be taking over FLW Canada tournaments. The FLW Canada Cup will be held on August 16-18, 2018 on Bay of Quinte (bay only). The full schedule and event locations have yet to be released.  All FLW Canada tournaments will be open to all anglers and no FLW Canada membership is not required.

Here is the official press release:

FLW has reached an exclusive licensing agreement with the Canadian Pro Bass Tour to assume operation of FLW Canada bass tournaments. The agreement was signed by FLW President of Operations Kathy Fennel and Andrew Pallotta, president of the Canadian Pro Bass Tour.
“Canadian bass anglers are among the best in the world, and they deserve world-class events in which to showcase their talent,” Fennel says. “We are excited to announce Andrew Pallotta as our new partner in Canada. We are confident that his extensive background in tournaments and sport shows will further elevate the status of FLW Canada tournaments and provide a promotional platform befitting such a talented group of anglers.”

FLW Canada will continue to advance two pros and two co-anglers to the Costa FLW Series Championship each year, where they will compete against the full field and other International Division anglers from China, Korea, Mexico and South Africa. The highest finisher in the International Division will advance to the Forrest Wood Cup.

FLW Canada in Jeopardy Next Year

By Luigi De Rose

According to FLW Canada's Facebook page the 2018 season will have some major changes. Shootout Fishing League (SFL) and Fishing League Worldwide (FLW) were unable to come to terms. FLW has yet to officially announce who will be running their tournaments in Canada. Considering the series has only run two seasons, they were well attended and well run.  

Here is their statement:

Shootout Fishing League (SFL) and Fishing League Worldwide (FLW) were unable to reach a contract renewal agreement. Even though SFL will no longer be operating FLW Canada, there is an organization that will be taking over these operations and continue with the FLW Canada tournaments. An official announcement will be made by FLW soon.

“It has been an honor to work with such incredible anglers over the past three seasons, and we are looking forward to building on our existing SFL brand and running events in the same ethical manner we always have with FLW and SFL. It is unfortunate that an agreement could not be reached, but we are excited for the future and growth of SFL while continuing to put our anglers first.” - Cory Banford

SFL AND FLW CANADA GOES ORANGE!

SFL AND FLW CANADA GOES ORANGE!

FLW Canada, Canada's largest professional bass tournament trail, and Shootout Fishing League (SFL), Eastern Ontario's leading open event organization and Carrot Stix, Fishing's fastest growing rod and reel brand, announced a major partnership today, with Carrot Stix being named as each events main presenting sponsor.

All 2017 events by SFL(6), and FLW Canada(4) we be presented by Carrot Stix! C.E.O. Cory Banford says "we could not be more excited with this partnership with such an exciting group, and growing company. They already sponsor FLW in the USA, so the fit is natural for both SFL/FLW Canada and Carrot Stix. We look forward to helping Carrot Stix grow north of the border with both our organizations, and all our amazing supportive anglers"

Carrot Stix in the past few years have been turning anglers heads to their product because of the quality, and range of high end rods! Carrot stix also offers a lifetime warranty, which makes it a no gamble purchase for the angler!

Tournament Anglers will get a first look at the partnership in action on June 18, from White Lake with SFL, and FLW Canadian anglers on June 24/25 from Rideau Lake.

Shimano KEEPS YOU FISHING!

Shimano has always been at the forefront of the fishing industry. A strong advocate of catch and release in tournaments, they also promote and fight for angler's rights. Listen to Bob Mahoney as he explains the role Shimano is having in the industry with KEEP YOU FISHING!

New Rapala Shadow Rap Shad with Scott Walcott.

Rapala's new jerk bait with custom smallmouth colours!
By Joel Isenberg



Rapala's new Shadow Rap Shad is an amazing jerkbait that suspends slightly then slowly floats up nose first. From gentle twitches to hard rips, this Shadow Rap Shad will produce tremendous side to side action. Pro-staffer and guide Scott Walcott explains this bait along with its new matte finishes that are ideal for clear waters.

Save with Navionics

Navionics+ offers an incredible value with 1 ft HD contour detail for marine areas and more than 18,000 lakes throughout US & Canada all-in-one.

 

From shoreline to deep water, charts include marinas, boat ramps and docks, navigation aids, spot soundings, and underwater structure such as road beds, bridges, stumps, culverts and creek channels.

 

Navionics+ is fully compatible with most popular GPS chartplotters from B&G, Humminbird, Lowrance, Raymarine, Simrad and more.

Check our compatibility guide for a complete list.

Save on Navionics+ now and have updated charts all season long! Contact your dealer before February 29th to save $30 on Navionics+.

Rapala Canada Scores New Product and Web Manager

Nomark Inc. announced that Chris Hockley has joined the company to further develop their exclusive Canadian product offering and website.  Chris comes with a wealth of experience within the Industry, having spent the last 25 years in marketing, sales, consulting, outdoor writing, and promoting fishing products.

Chris joins Normark Inc. (Rapala Canada) as Product and Web Manager to continue Normark’s recent success in supplying exclusive Canadian inspired fishing products to Canadian consumers. Chris’s responsibilities will include working with the global product development team on new product initiatives as well as further developing the company’s website.  Chris comments “I am excited to start a new challenge within the Normark group and look forward to working with the team to further develop their already extensive product offering and website.   I am fortunate to be joining such a respected company that prides itself on providing innovative premium quality fishing products”.

David Mutual Wins the 2015 Rayovac FLW Series Northern Division Lake Erie!

North Pelee Is. bass turn on!
by David A. Brown
FLW PRESS RELEASE
Of all the angling axioms that drive our decisions, few top the wisdom of following the food. Exemplifying this simple, yet undeniably productive strategy, David Matual posted a three-day total of 65 pounds to win the final event of the Rayovac FLW Series Northern Division on Lake Erie.
Fishing Canadian waters, Matual targeted shallow reefs northwest of Pelee Island. He had three different areas, all within a few miles of one another.
The spots looked good, from a structural standpoint, but it was the presence of baitfish — a lot of baitfish — that convinced him to commit.

Mutual big bag secures win by a 1/2 pound. (Photo: FLW)

On day one, Matual noticed hordes of baitfish migrating into the shallow reefs — likely prompted by seasonal cooling, according to Matual. Smallmouth don’t miss much when it comes to filling their bellies and this buffet brought the brownies running with their mouths open.

“I was around a school of fish that were so jacked up that every morning when I got there, I saw them busting on the surface,” Matual says. “My spot just got better every day.
“I didn’t bring any topwater baits, but I wish I did; we had so many splashes.”
Initially, Matual fished the shallow reef areas in about 10 feet, but astute observation helped him dial in the sweet spots.

ICAST 2015 Pre-view: The Lunkerhunt Core Strength Limit Worm

The Lunkerhunt Core Strength Limit Worm^™ is a new addition to the Core Strength line. It has a lot of great features that will help you catch fish. Available in 4 inch and 6 inch sizes, the Limit Worm^™ is infused with fish protein and comes in a wide range of proven fish catching patterns.

The Core Strength Limit Worm^™ was designed with the help of FLW Touring Pro Matt Arey. The product brings together a significant amount of on-the-water experience, and an equal amount of time in R&D using Lunkerhunt’s award winning engineering techniques. Don’t underestimate its simple shape, the Limit Worm^™ is packed full of features.

Starting with its Core Strength foundation, the Limit Worm^™ is formed around a mylar fabric core which prevents the bait from tearing easily, thereby increases the bait’s lifespan. This translates into more fishing time and less maintenance for the bait.

 The body of the Limit Worm is protein-infused and is made out of quality plastic. It does not require special liquid or oil to stay fresh.

 The Limit Worm^™ has an oval indicator on its head for easy rigging to the mylar. The result is similar to hooking clothing. Once rigged through the mylar, the hook is locked into the bait. The body shape of the Limit Worm incorporates ribs, straight edges, and tapering that maximize performance. The Limit Worm^™ excels when jigging, drop shoting, Carolina rigging, Texas rigging, split shot rigging and even as a worm harnesses bait.

Daiwa Corporation takes on Ever Green in US, Canada

Originally posted in Angling International

The Daiwa Corporation has taken on the exclusive distribution of Ever Green lures in the US and Canada.

The agreement was announced at the national sales meeting of the Japanese tackle giant in California earlier this month.

Ever Green has enhanced its credentials as one of Japan’s top lure brands with wins in US bass tournaments by top sponsored anglers such as Brett Hite and Morizo Shimizu, both of whom have participated in B.A.S.S. Bassmaster Elite tournaments, for many years.

With the nationwide distribution channel of Daiwa Corporation, it aims to offer more stable delivery to retailers throughout the USA and Canada.

At the ICAST show in July, the Ever Green stand will be located next to Daiwa’s. Visitors to the booth will be able to see their product line-up for the USA and talk business with the representatives.

Ever Green plans to launch a new website for the US market in July.

The Daiwa Corporation has taken on the exclusive distribution of Ever Green lures in the US and Canada.
The agreement was announced at the national sales meeting of the Japanese tackle giant in California earlier this month.
Ever Green has enhanced its credentials as one of Japan’s top lure brands with wins in US bass tournaments by top sponsored anglers such as Brett Hite and Morizo Shimizu, both of whom have participated in B.A.S.S. Bassmaster Elite tournaments, for many years.
With the nationwide distribution channel of Daiwa Corporation, it aims to offer more stable delivery to retailers throughout the USA and Canada.
At the ICAST show in July, the Ever Green stand will be located next to Daiwa’s. Visitors to the booth will be able to see their product line-up for the USA and talk business with the representatives.
Ever Green plans to launch a new website for the US market in July.
- See more at: http://www.angling-international.com/daiwa-corporation-takes-on-ever-green-in-us-and-canada/#sthash.kBAcyMRI.dpuf

The Daiwa Corporation has taken on the exclusive distribution of Ever Green lures in the US and Canada.
The agreement was announced at the national sales meeting of the Japanese tackle giant in California earlier this month.
Ever Green has enhanced its credentials as one of Japan’s top lure brands with wins in US bass tournaments by top sponsored anglers such as Brett Hite and Morizo Shimizu, both of whom have participated in B.A.S.S. Bassmaster Elite tournaments, for many years.
With the nationwide distribution channel of Daiwa Corporation, it aims to offer more stable delivery to retailers throughout the USA and Canada.
At the ICAST show in July, the Ever Green stand will be located next to Daiwa’s. Visitors to the booth will be able to see their product line-up for the USA and talk business with the representatives.
Ever Green plans to launch a new website for the US market in July.
- See more at: http://www.angling-international.com/daiwa-corporation-takes-on-ever-green-in-us-and-canada/#sthash.kBAcyMRI.dpuf