2017 BASS Elite Lake Dardanelle Day 2: Mark Davis Grabs Leads with 33-09lbs!

Davis a local but success here has been a challenge

BASS PRESS RELEASE

Mark Davis of Mount Ida, Ark., is no stranger to tough tournaments, and during Saturday's second round of competition, he caught 19 pounds, 4 ounces of bass to take the lead at the GoPro Bassmaster Elite at Lake Dardanelle presented by Econo Lodge. His two-day total is 33-9.

Davis adjusting to changing river.
(Photo: BASS)

Davis has accomplished nearly everything during his distinguished career on the Bassmaster tour, including three Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year titles and one Bassmaster Classic world championship in 1995.

One thing has escaped him, however — a good finish on Lake Dardanelle.

"Dardanelle has been my career nemesis," Davis said. "I live only an hour and a half from here, and I've always struggled. I'd have a good practice and be excited about getting the tournament started, then have a hard time even catching a limit."

For someone who has done so much in this sport, a win here would mean a lot to the 54-year-old angler.

"It would be huge to win this tournament," he said. "This place has whipped me down so many times, it feels good to just do well. I would love to finally conquer these bass, and I think I am on the right fish to make it happen."