NC BASS Federation Nation Youth Regional Tournament
Halloween morning was true to its scary tradition Saturday October 31, 2009 as the NC Bass Anglers Sportsman Society Federation Nation hosted a Youth Regional tournament. Several clubs were represented including South Fork, Sandy Creek, Ball’s Creek and one angler from Archdale. Robert “Chuckie” Reed of Archdale-Trinity Middle School and New Covenant Lutheran Church competed in the 11 to 14 year old bracket. A 15 to 18 bracket was available too.
Blinding fog and wind-blown drizzle delayed the start of the tournament but these very intrepid young anglers were no less deterred than their senior fishing counterparts. Adult clubs provided boats and “captains” to pilot the younger anglers around the lake and make sure they stay safe. They were not allowed to help or provide much more than topical information. The young guys had to figure it out on their own under competition conditions just like the adults do. But as always, some catches the fish.
In the senior 15 to 18 division, Logan Holt of Sandy Creek Bass Club caught 10 pounds 7 ounces of fish for the top spot. Chucky Gulley just got judged out with 9 pounds 13 ounces for second. And, Christian Johnson of the Balls Creek club took third place.
Underscoring how tough it was, the 11 to 14 bracket only had one man bring in a qualified fish. High Rock, and all the Yadkin River Chain lakes in North Carolina, have a minimum size limit for bass you can keep of 14”. Bobby Bauer of South Fork bass club had 3 pounds 4 ounces to take first place in his division leaving the other two spots unrewarded. All of these competitors will advance to the next level of competition.
All of the competitors received a tackle pack along with a chance a door prizes and other gifts from sponsors like Triton Boats, Lowrance Electronics, DEI- Ganassi Racing, BassPro Shops, Gander Mountain, True South Lures, God’s Country and especially the good folks at Tamarac Marina for hosting the event on a very busy day for all their other activities.