Minnesota BassHeads Angler Spotlight
Noah Schultz
We are going to start this one off with a bang. The first BassHeads Angler Spotlight is Mr. I win 3 Skeeters in 4 years, Noah Schultz Fishing. Thank you Noah for participating.
How old are you? 38
Where do you live? Waseca, Minnesota
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My dad and my grandpa took me bass fishing as soon as I could hold a rod in my hand.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
The only full circuit I fish is The Champions Tour – Classic Bass, that’s where i put most of my focus, but in-between Classic Bass I will fish anything and everything from Blackfish Classic to Thursday nighters! I fish about a minimum of 30 tournaments a year!
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
I’m a sucker for big glide baits.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2022 Skeeter ZX200
What is your personal best largemouth?
7.27 with multiple others over 7 two of them in tournaments.
What is your personal best smallmouth?
Don’t do much small mouth fishing but I’d say 5.5
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Blackfish, Bagley Baits, Humminbird/Minnkota, Mega Bass, Zoom, Outkast
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
6 wins on the Champions Tour – 3 of them being Championship wins 
2021 Champions Tour Angler of the year.
2019 Blackfish Classic win
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, ect )?
I’m Happily Married for almost 7 yrs. We have 7 kids. I have no other hobbies , I literally eat, breathe, sleep bass fishing. I feel fortunate that my wife and kids enjoy fishing too. They travel with me and are at every weigh-in to cheer me on!
I guess what I really would want the Bassheads community to know about me is, I don’t come from money. Everything I have, I have worked hard for. I don’t ask for spots, I don’t ask for way points. I fish my own fish!!! #properbassinman #fishingfortrophies
Matt Gilbertson
Today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight goes to Matt Gilbertson. An Alexandria, MN area hammer. I had the pleasure of fishing next to him and his partner Mike Mohr in the last Battle of the BassHeads as both my team and his were setting the hook left in right on some big Ol’ green fish on Big Stone. Thanks for participating in the spotlight Matt.
How old are you? 41
Where do you live? Nelson, Minnesota
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My dad took me fishing often as a kid. We fished for panfish and walleye. I grew up across the street from Lake Darling, part of the LeHomme Dieu Chain and we had a private access on the lake that had a boat launch and dock. The neighborhood kids would fish from the dock and as we got older we focused on catching bass. I was introduced to tournament bass fishing by Cory Putnam and as they say, “the rest is history.”
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I fish the Reel Team Bass circuit in the Alexandria Area and a weekly league night. MN Basshead event in September.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
I love to flip to flip a jig on the weedline.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Ranger Z520
What is your personal best largemouth?
PB Green: 6.41 lbs
What is your personal best smallmouth?
PB Brown: 6.43 lbs
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Strike King, Berkley, Outkast, Dirty Jigs, Gamakatsu, Humminbird
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I have been fortunate to chase bass across the country from the west coast to the east coast. I have also had the opportunity to film some television shows with Mike Frisch of Fishing the Midwest.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, ect )?
I am married with 3 kids (4 and under). I am excited to be able to share my passion of fishing with the family as they grow up. Our middle child is already obsessed with everything fishing related! I cannot wait for the day that they ask me to let them have control of the boat.
Dana Carlson
Today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight focuses on one of our female BassHeads. Dana Carlson has been hooked on the bass bug in the last 4 years and has been making some big moves. She has traveled the country entering in numerous tournaments to better her angling skills! Thank you for participating in our Angler Spotlight Dana! Good luck this season!
How old are you?
36
Where do you live?
Central MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
I have been bass fishing the last 4 years , a friend and I went bassin and the rest is history. I have been fishing all my life.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I fish for Loon State bass club, fish the BFLs Great Lakes as a co angler , Lady bass angler association out of Kentucky and MN Team trail .
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Anything finesse, primarily jig and senko.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2013 Ranger Z521
What is your personal best largemouth?
7.04 lbs
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6 lbs
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Missile baits , bass nut lures , grande bass and strike king.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Finished 3rd AOY my first full season fishing down south, on bodies of water I did not prefishing and against some of the best lady anglers across the country. Finished 2nd day 1 of my first BFL super finishing 12/21 day 2.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I have 3 daughters, who all love to fish .
KaiZer Moua
KaiZer Moua is your BassHeads Angler Spotlight for today! Kaizer is a Metro city angler that always seems to be posting pics of bigguns. Here is a little bit of info on who he is and how he got into bass fishing! Thanks for the info Kaizer!
How old are you?
33
Where do you live?
St. Paul
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Fishing has always been a passion, but I started competing about 5 years ago.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I spent the past summer fishing with the Wannabees Fishing Club. Awesome group of guys. They made fishing fun again. 
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Jig Fishing would be my go-to technique. Any Tungsten weight would work, but my favorite Jig would be a Sasquatch Jig. Compact, sturdy, well-built, weedless, sensitive, and a more life like presentation when stationary. If you’re one who’s tried countless jigs and nothing seems to work how you truly want, I recommend trying out the Sasquatch Jigs lineup.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
I run a deep V for bass fishing. It’s not ideal, but I love my setup. Specifically, a Larson 1850FX. I’ve never been a believer in the gear, making the angler. Plus, I get the best of both worlds when it comes to fishing/pleasure.
What is your personal best largemouth?
My PB weighs in at 6.10 pounds. Caught on Waverley Lake with a Missle Baits Amber D Bomb and 1/2 oz KhangBros junebug tungsten weight. Flipping a “brush” pile in about 10 feet of water.
What is your personal best smallmouth?
I’m not much of a smallmouth bass fisherman. If anyone is looking to teach, I am more than willing to learn! It’s not my strong suit.
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
If I was forced to use only 1 rod for the rest of my life, I’d choose the Edge Delta-FSC MBR 744-1 rod. It’s the perfect balance of sensitivity, strength, and price.
As for a reel, I would choose the Shimano Metanium B reel. Lightweight, comfortable, and the Monocoque body helps with sensitivity.
As for baits/lures, in no particular order. Missile baits, 10000 fish, Sixth Sense, Strike King, Megabass, Sasquatch Jigs, KBL jigs, Zman, and Keitechs.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
No major accomplishments. What I am looking to accomplish going forward is start a program where anglers who don’t have access to boats can get free trips with me. In hope of other anglers joining in, if you see someone fishing from the shore and you’re planning to fish alone, see if you can take them out with you. Bass fishing should always be more about having fun than catching big ones.
Tadd Johnson
Today we have Mr. Tadd Johnson in our BassHeads Angler Spotlight. I’ve only met Tadd in person once but have known the name for years. All I know is that this dude can catch some fish and always seems like one of the nicest guys around! Thanks for taking part in the spotlight, Tadd.
How old are you?
47 years old
Where do you live?
Live in Lakeville MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
In the early 90’s I fished the Pan O Prog bass tournament on Lake Marion with Mike Doughty, we happened to win it & became completely obsessed with bass fishing. Before that I had fished mostly Muskie and walleye but just for fun. After that I started fishing more tournaments with Mike, Jeremy Flicek & Chris Luedtke. They were all way more experienced & I just tried to absorb everything they could teach me..
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Bass club Prior Lake Hooksetters
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Flipping, pitching, skipping and punching. Just give me a jig or a Texas rig on a short string and I’m happy.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Ranger 519
What is your personal best largemouth?
7lb 2oz
What is your personal best smallmouth?
5lb 12 oz
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
All Terrain Tackle, OutKast Tackle, Arsenal Fishing I love to support our local companies. Z Man, Lews, Witch Dr Tackle, Berkley.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
3 State tournament championship team wins, 1 Regional championship team win. 1 regional individual State Champion, 1 BASS national championship qualification, 1 Prior lake Hooksetter AOY.
Other events: Classic Bass Champions Tour win, CT championship 4th place, Runner up AOY Minnesota Pro Am Bass Tour, Minnetonka classic win.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, ect )?
Never get to high when you have a good day on the water and never get too low when you don’t. It seems simple but during those drives home from the water it can be tough to remember. Don’t beat yourself up too much or put yourself too high on a pedestal. Fishing is the most humbling thing you may ever do. One day you can think you know it all and the next day you can fell like you don’t know anything.
When you take a kid fishing make it all about them. If you have an agenda going in be ready to to change it. Remember it’s one of many days for you on the water but to them it’s a day they will remember for the rest of their lives.
Find a mentor or better yet a few. Join a bass club, go to sports shows, ask questions on BassHeads. Understand that you will never stop learning when it comes to fishing.
John Figi
We are back with the start of our second round of BassHeads Angler Spotlight! Today the spotlight goes to John Figi. I think most bass anglers in the state have heard the name or seen his name at the top of the leaderboard on some of the states larger tournaments. Thanks for taking the time to participate Mr. Figi!
How old are you?
38 years old
Where do you live?
Bloomington
Occupation?
General Contractor
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Started working at Gander Mountain right after high school and it was game over after that.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I have been fishing Denny’s tournament for like 15+ years now. I also fish the Champions Tour and jump into as many other tournaments as I can.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
I absolutely love having a flipping stick in my hand but also enjoy throwing a drop shot/Ned rig.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
I run a Phoenix 721
What is your personal best largemouth?
9.4lbs
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6.13lbs
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Daiwa has been a huge supporter of mine for years! Also Humminbird and Omnia. Evergreen as well.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I have been fortunate enough to win team of the year multiple times in Denny’s Minnetonka circuit. I also have an angler of the year in the Champions Tour.
Vang P Xiong
Today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight goes to Vang P Xiong. Part of the reason I started this feature was to get to know anglers throughout the state. Thank you Vang for the information below and hopefully see you out on the water in the upcoming season.
How old are you?
40 years old
What’s your occupation?
Data Engineer
Where do you live?
Maplewood, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
I grew up shore fishing with my dad for rough fish, panfish and trout. We always caught bass when fishing for whatever was biting, so with that self confidence, my brother and I fished a pickup bass tournament many years ago and quickly realized how challenging it was. That experience inspired me to seek out more knowledge and I ended up joining a club, Gopher Bassmaster, where I learned a ton as a co-angler before transitioning to a boater from some really great sticks.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I’ve been fishing with Gopher Bassmaster since 2014. Otherwise, I do fish random pick up tournaments throughout the summer with friends.
What are your favorite techniques for catching bass?
Swim jig and flipping a texas rig craw tube
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2018 Ranger z518c
What is your personal best largemouth?
5.8 lbs
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6.5 lbs
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Zoom Speed Craw, Keitech Swing Impact, Yamamoto Senko, Yum Dinger, Outkast Stealth Feider Jig
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I never did very well, but I have qualified and fished many MN Bass Nation TOCs and have been fortunate to be paired up with good people that has led to many friendships. I also volunteer as a boat captain for a local high school team that made state last year and it’s been a rewarding experience seeing their growth progression over a season.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I am married with 4 kids. All of them fish along with the wife and we enjoy casual multi-species fishing trips.
For anyone interested in getting into bass fishing or want to get better, I highly recommend joining a local club and spending a few seasons fishing as a co-angler. At the club level, while it can get very competitive, it is an opportunity to learn and ask questions from the back of a boat in a lower cost setting, not to mention the friendship and camaraderie you build along the way.
Personally, I purchased my first bait caster after joining Gopher. The guys in the club showed me how to set up my reel, flip/skip a jig, drop shot, and pretty much taught me the fundamentals of bass fishing. I got to fish outside of my comfort zone and fished some very beautiful northern MN lakes that I probably never would have fished if I didn’t join the club.
Brock Poppe
Today the BassHeads Angler Spotlight focuses on one of our High School anglers, Brock Poppe Thanks for sharing your info with us and good luck this season!
How old are you?
15 years old
What’s your occupation?
High School Studen
Where do you live?
I live in blaine mn
How did you first get into bass fishing?
When I was 9 my dad bought me my first bait caster. And went bass fishing the next weekend and I caught the bug.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I belong to the wannabe’s (every Tuesday)and the nightcrawlers (every Wednesday) and also on the SLP high school bass fishing
What are your favorite techniques for catching bass?
My favorite has to be fishing a jig and skipping a wacky rig
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
I don’t own a boat we fish out of my dads larson fx1750(tiller) great boat
What is your personal best largemouth?
4lb 11oz (in the photo)
What is your personal best smallmouth?
5lb 2oz
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Missile baits and Reaction innovations
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
This last year i put a check in one of my boxes by going to state for my high school fishing on the whitefish chain ended up 26th out of 100 boats
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I have the best big brother, Evan who helps me with all my fishing and hunting advice. I also have a dad and mom who support me through my ups and down.
Myles Pfingsten
Myles Pfingsten is in today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight. I’ve never met Myles personally but have spoke with him via chat quite a few times. This dude LOOOOVESSS to catch bass. And seems to have a knack for catching bigguns! Thanks for the info Myles.
How old are you?
30
What’s your occupation?
Sales @ State Farm
Where do you live?
Mankato
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Right end the end of my college career in Des Moines Iowa I had a friend Derek who got me hooked on bass fishing. We would drive all over the place fishing random ponds urban, and private ponds. Got the itch bad from there. Growing up in high school I used to make fun of the kids in the high school bass clubs
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Last year I competed in the Howies Southern Bass Tour with my good friend DJ.
What are your favorite techniques for catching bass?
1/2oz Flipping Jig, Frog, Spinnerbait, Finesse Worm.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
1998 Fisher 21 FX Tournament DC 200 EFI
What is your personal best largemouth?
7.2
What is your personal best smallmouth?
5.67
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Berkley, Z man, Megabass, Shimano, Daiwa, St Criox Rods, G Loomis.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I wanted to catch a largie over 7 last year and accomplished that. My goal is win a local bass tournament this year.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Married to my wife Brittany. Newborn baby girl Leena who is 4 months old.
I am extremely passionate about bass fishing and I love that this sport you are always constantly learning from other anglers, and sharing that experience on the water is awesome. I am just starting to get into tournament bass fishing and I have really enjoyed that. I am very competitive by nature. My wife would probably tell you I watch way to much YouTube . I feel lucky to live in Minnesota where we have so many opportunities and so many bodies of water to pick from with excellent fishing. I am also a die hard waterfowl hunter. That was my first passion as a kid growing up. A dream hunt would be shooting greenheads with Seth Feider in the morning, then have an afternoon of giant fall largemouth fishing.
. I feel lucky to live in Minnesota where we have so many opportunities and so many bodies of water to pick from with excellent fishing. I am also a die hard waterfowl hunter. That was my first passion as a kid growing up. A dream hunt would be shooting greenheads with Seth Feider in the morning, then have an afternoon of giant fall largemouth fishing.Hunter Wendt
Today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight is an up and coming HAMMER, Hunter Wendt. At only 20 years old, I have already seen his name a few times towards the top of the leaderboard on some of the bigger tournaments in MN. This dude is going to be taking a lot of BassHeads money in the years to come 
How old are you?
20 years old
What’s your occupation?
I work at voyager industry’s building yetti fish houses
Where do you live?
Pequot lakes, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
I got into fishing at a very young age and just fell in love with the sport!
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I run classic bass champions tour, north central bass, Mn bass series
What are your favorite techniques for catching bass?
Favorite techniques are flipping a jig, a rig, dropshot, and chickens
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2021 skeeter fxr21
What is your personal best largemouth?
8.4
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6.15
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Aresenal fishing, Elliot rods, OutKast tackle, strike king, Zman
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Mn Jr state champion
6 top tens in champions tour finished 3rd in points
Multiple high school wins as well
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Information about me!
I am a drivin young angler and and strive to give back to others such as Benefit tournaments, guiding wounded warriors, ect
Levi Ward & Bryce Bohlen
We are back at it for the 3rd round of the Minnesota BassHeads Angler Spotlight. We are doing it a little different with the next couple of posts. The next two posts are teams from the Minnesota State University Collegiate Bass Fishing Team who are currently ranked 25th in the Nation!!! Today the spotlight is on Levi Ward and Bryce Bohlen! Thanks for taking time to fill this out fellas! And good luck this year!
How old are you?
Levi : 19
Bryce : 19
Where do you live?
Levi: St. Clair, MN
Bryce: Waterville, MN
Occupations?
Levi: Student and Engineering intern at Johnson outdoors
Bryce: Student at Minnesota State University Mankato
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Levi : I grew up fishing with my dad and was first introduced to bass fishing from YouTube, been hooked ever since
Bryce: I started fishing at a very young age with my dad. And fell in love with the sport
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Levi: MNCBC college trail, MLF college division and Phoenix bass fishing league, Lake X tournament trail, and various local derby’s
Bryce: I fish the S.C. MN bass tour and Thursday nighters. And this year I will be fishing for Minnesota State University Mankato
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Levi: Swim jigging, frogging, and drop shotting
Bryce: Favorite techniques are jig, drop shot and chicken
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Levi: Skeeter zx195c w/ 200 HP Yamaha
Bryce: 2021 zx 200
What is your personal best largemouth?
Levi: 5.65
Bryce: 5.75
What is your personal best smallmouth?
Levi: 5.2
Bryce: 5.5
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Levi: Minnkota, humminbird, favorite rods, abu Garcia reels, Great Lakes finesse, rapala, and megabass
Bryce: Abu Garcia, strike king, shimano
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Levi: Various High school state championship qualifications and top 10s
Bryce: 4x high school state qualifier, 1x high school national qualifier, Made toc in Howie’s southern bass tour
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Levi: I am a part time/hobby videographer and photographer and love to create content around my hobby’s of Bass fishing and hunting
Sander Ludeman & Collin Barnett
The MN BassHeads Angler Spotlight goes to the other team from Minnesota State University Mankato! Today we have Sander Ludeman VII and Collin Barnett. Thanks for taking the time to answer some questions guys. Good luck in 2023!
How old are you?
Sander: 20
Collin: 19
Where do you live?
Sander: Mankato, MN
Collin: Mankato, MN
Occupations?
Sander: Student, Scheels Mankato-Fishing Specialist
Collin: Fishing Sales Associate at Mankato Scheels
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Sander: My mom took me to a local pond to catch bluegill and bass.
Collin: Grew up on a small lake in southern MN and my dad introduced me into fishing. Fell in love with bass fishing the more and more I did it. I became fascinated with how many different ways to fish there are.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Sander: MSU College Bass Team
Collin: I am on the Minnesota State, Mankato Bass Fishing Team and we compete in the MLF College and B.A.S.S Collegiate series
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Sander: Swim jig and finesse worm
Collin: Swing-head jig, punching, football jig, and any type of power fishing
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Sander: Zx225 skeeter
Collin: I do not currently own a boat but my tournament partner has a Skeeter zx225
What is your personal best largemouth?
Sander: 5lbs 140z
Collin: 5lbs 9oz
What is your personal best smallmouth?
Sander: 5lbs
Collin probably 2lbs
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Sander: Zman and megabass
Collin: Shimano, Berkley, Dobyns rods, dirty jigs, sufix
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Sander: Won a SATT tournament on Mille lacs
Collin: Having a positive season with my tournament partner in our first year of collegiate bass fishing
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Sander: We are trying to grow our college bass team and would like all the help we can get!!!
Collin: I am currently a junior at MNSU studying marketing with aspirations to work in the world of fishing and/or the outdoors. I love the combination of marketing/branding and the fishing world!
Joe Ponessa
Mr. Joe Ponessa is in our Minnesota BassHeads Angler Spotlight for today! This guy know how to catch em’ and competes against some of the best in the state! See his section on accomplishment to see what he did in 2022. Not an easy task! Thanks for participating Joe.
How old are you?
31
What’s your occupation?
Digital Merchandiser at Omnia Fishing, I love my job.
Where do you live?
St. Paul.
How did you first get into bass fishing?
I was lucky to grow up on Turtle Lake in Shoreview, which was once a phenomenal bass lake. I started fishing off the dock with my dad at a very young age and fished my first tournament at 12 years old. I’ve had a deep passion and devotion for the sport since I can remember.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I fish the Denny’s Super 30 Minnetonka Series along with various other Minnetonka and local events
What are your favorite techniques for catching bass?
Smallmouth: Football Jig, Hair Jig, Blade Bait
Largemouth: Any power fishing technique
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Skeeter ZX200
What is your personal best largemouth?
6.70
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6.54
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Humminbird/Minn Kota, OutKast Tackle, Shimano, Omnia Fishing
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I was fortunate to win Denny’s Team of the Year in ’22 with good friend and derby partner Rob Storrar. We’ve also won a Denny’s and cashed checks in nearly every event we’ve fished out there so far (knock on wood 3x).
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
There’s no substitute for time on the water and I’m thankful for a great tournament partner and friends who push me to be a better angler.
Sean Jones
Today for the MN BassHeads Angler Spotlight we have Sean Jones. From what I can tell, this dude just loves to bass fish. Whether it’s from his boat or beating the bank. Guy always seems to be fishing and catching some good ones! Thanks for taking the time to answer some questions Sean!
How old are you?
41
What’s your occupation?
Oversea Freight Forwarding @ Professional Export Services
Where do you live?
Lakeville, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Walleye fishing with my grandfather on Lake Kabetogama as a small kid has turned into a bass fishing addiction
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
None at the moment but soon
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Frogging, jerkbaits, cranking and jigs
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Stratos 275 Pro XL
What is your personal best largemouth?
6lbs 0oz
What is your personal best smallmouth?
5lbs 6oz
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Megabass, Shimano, DEPS, Dirty Jigs and Garmin
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Last season in particular; setting goals to break both LM and SM personal bests and doing so. Setting goals and hard work pays off
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Married with no kids. Enjoy taking my nieces, nephew and friends’ kids out fishing/outdoors as much as possible. Come spring, summer and fall I’m either on the boat or on the bank every day possible. Putting the time in, as well as setting goals is paramount to success in my humble opinion. Get out there and GET AFTER IT
Stephanie Lawson
Group 3 of the BassHeads Angler Spotlight comes to an end with Stephanie Lawson. You talk about loving to fish, this lady fishes more than most people I know. Whether it is open water or on hard water, it seems like she is always reeling them in. Thank you so much for participating, Stephanie.
How old are you?
51
What’s your occupation?
Auto Remarketer
Where do you live?
Annandale, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
13 years ago a former boyfriend said if you wanna date me, you gotta learn how to bass fish and then handed me a baitcaster. Although we didn’t work out, the baitcaster is working out magnificently. 
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Boater for The Minnesota Bass Tour and Co-Angler for the Prior Lake Hooksetters
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Although I love throwing big jigs, bladed jigs and whopper ploppers, I caught the most quality bass on a drop shot last year.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2021 LUND Renegade
What is your personal best largemouth?
5.5
What is your personal best smallmouth?
5.6
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Temple Fork Outfitters, m-y wedge, Billy Rub, Strike King, River2Sea, Outkast, Z-Man, Impulse, Rapala
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Getting into the Blackfish Classic this year. Lol
As a boater, 3rd is the highest our team finished and 7th as a Co. I’ve cashed a few nice checks as a multi-species angler because I fish for everything… bass is just my first love.
Fishing 160 unique lakes in the past 3 years and empowering women to be boat owners and educating them on boat operation from launch to load and everything in between is what I’m most proud of.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
My daughter has a degree from Iowa State and is starting an Electrician apprenticeship. My son is a Professional Disc Golfer and is also a SKOL Line drummer for the Vikings. My boyfriend is an excellent walleye angler (everyone boo together lol), so we have a good time razzing each other.
Lastly, I just want to say that I know that I have been granted some amazing opportunities in the industry and I am so grateful for the support. Anyone is welcome to follow the journey on social media. Good luck to all anglers both tournament and leisure
Donovan Yang
Here we are, going on our 4th round of the BassHeads Angler Spotlight! Today’s spotlight goes to a young up and comer! Donovan Yang has the bug and has it early! This guy is 100% into the sport at a young age which is amazing to see. Thanks Donovan for answering a few questions about you!
How old are you?
14 Years Old
What’s your occupation?
Still currently in school and Blessed to be a part of the Blackfish/ Clam Team
Where do you live?
North Suburbs Near Elk River
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Started when I was 3 when I caught my first three pound bass with an ice rod. Since then it quickly became an addiction to do better than before.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I currently fish out of the Anoka/ Ramsey Bassers HS Club and will be fishing in the JR Bass Nation High school Series and SATT trails for 2023. And yes My sister is my Co-Angler 
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Hmm. I’d have to say any finesse technique is fun but micros have been my favorite lately. Micro jigs specifically
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2022 Skeeter ZX150
What is your personal best largemouth?
5.32
What is your personal best smallmouth?
5.03
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Daiwa, Gamakatsu, berkley, Megabass to name a few
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
2022 JR TBF state Qualifier
2022 Minnesota JR Bass Nation State Champion heading to Nationals in Tennessee come July 2023
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Come watch me along with some of the best anglers from our BH community on July 31st at Lord Fletchers Lake Minnetonka for the 2023 Blackfish Classic Tournament it will be a fun one!!
it will be a fun one!!Follow my progress @Donovan_yang_fishing
Mike Nitchals
Today the BassHead Angler Spotlight is on Mr. Mike Nitchals. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Mike a few times at the Battle of the BassHeads events and he is just a genuinely good guy who loves to fish. Pretty awesome to see him and his son Andy out there fishing every tournament they can. Thanks for taking the time, Mike.
How old are you?
74 years young
What’s your occupation?
Retired
Where do you live?
Willmar
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My fishing roots go back to bullhead fishing in Iowa and progressed to walleye fishing. When my son Andy was about 10 years old he said we should go bass fishing. We did and I haven’t looked back
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I belong to the West Central Bassmasters a MN Bass Nation club.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
I try to be versatile about techniques but I enjoy whatever is working!
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
We have a Skeeter ZXR20 with a Yamaha SHO 250.
What is your personal best largemouth?
8.75lbs caught in TX
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6+ prefishing a tournament and did not weigh
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Berkley, Daiwa, Zman, Strike King, Rapala, Outkast, All Terrain, Arsenal, and on and on…
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
At my age I consider it a major accomplishment to fish with and against some of the best bass anglers in the state. I have a fishing friend who tells me that when he shows up to a tournament he looks around for me to make sure he’s not the oldest guy fishing! Fishing with my son Andy and having success has been both enjoyable and satisfying
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I definitely appreciate the MN Bassheads and all the other organizations and individuals who support and encourage bass fishing. I’m married and have two sons.
Xavier Cole
The BassHeads Angler Spotlight is on Xavier Cole today! Thanks for taking the time to answer some questions. Hope you have a good 2023 season!
How old are you?
26
What’s your occupation?
HVAC Technician
Where do you live?
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
How did you first get into bass fishing?
I was about 4 when I caught my first Bass. You couldn’t get me off the dock during a cabin trip. Shorty after that my uncle taught me how to rig up a “PowerBait Power worm” and it was over for me.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Ive been fishing the Lunker Squad Series the past couples years and I’ve been having a blast. Huge shoutout to them.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
I have a lot but skipping Docks really does it for me.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Nitro z7
What is your personal best largemouth?
6.02
What is your personal best smallmouth?
4.15
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Arsenal, Strike King, Yum and Z man.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I joined the Greenhorn Advanced series one year because the other group had filled up. Didn’t expect to do as well as I did and made it to TOC that year.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I have truly had some of my best moments in life on the water chasing bass and I’m happy to be apart of this community and share my passion with everyone.
My wife’s family is from Willmar and we have a tradition of getting together the night before opener and grill and talk Bass. it’s very funny seeing the driveway and yard filled with bass boats getting ready for opener. Does anyone else have any cool fishing opener traditions?
Eric Altena
Eric Altena is in the BassHeads Angler Spotlight for today! If you are like me and sometimes come across as a facebook fisheries biologist, this dude will put you in your place with actual facts since he is actually in that field of study haha. Thanks for always providing the group with great insight Eric and thanks for participating.
How old are you?
54
What’s your occupation?
Fisheries Manager (25 years in MN, five in TX, three in CO)
Where do you live?
Rice
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Grew up on a creek (called “brooks” back on the east coast, where I was born)
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
One of the founders of the Upper Mississippi River Smallie Club, Life member of B.A.S.S.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Swimjigs I tie for smallies, pitching timber for largies, Stick worms for both.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2005 River-Pro 176 Lo Pro. 2001 Xpress X19 (project rig)
What is your personal best largemouth?
7.5 #
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6.15, 21.5″
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Lews, Lowrance, ZMan, experimenting with rod manufacturers still.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Taking third in the IFalls Bass Classic and winning a local tourney with my son Braden.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Married to an awesome, understanding wife (Becky), who knows my fishing addiction! Have my own son Braden (25), Step kids Cam (25), Kaitlyn (29) and Kelsey (31). Doing my best to change the way we look at angling in MN, hopefully getting seasons changed to allow year round angling for bass. (maybe other species too). 
Have my own son Braden (25), Step kids Cam (25), Kaitlyn (29) and Kelsey (31). Doing my best to change the way we look at angling in MN, hopefully getting seasons changed to allow year round angling for bass. (maybe other species too). Johnston Westmoreland
Today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight goes to Johnston Westmoreland. An absolute hammer who always seems to be catching giants! Thanks for taking some time to answer some questions.
How old are you?
38
What’s your occupation?
Line clearance arborist for Mille Lacs Energy Co-op
Where do you live?
Moose Lake
How did you first get into bass fishing?
At age 15 I had an amazing day on the clam flowage on a spinner bait and a tube & I’ve never been the same since
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I fish the MNBN Trail and the Up North Bass (& anything buddies call for)
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
If I can catch them on a Jig or a Bladed Jig I’m in my happy place
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
A Vexus AVX (thanks to Mr. Teal and Banger)
What is your personal best largemouth?
LMB 8+
What is your personal best smallmouth?
SMB just over 7
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Vocelka Fishing, this incredible guy has costed me a lot of money over the years but I regret nothing , Spraungel Performance Marine does awesome work while we trade verbal abuse, the people at Marine General in my area have been amazing ever since I walked in their doors 20 years ago
, Spraungel Performance Marine does awesome work while we trade verbal abuse, the people at Marine General in my area have been amazing ever since I walked in their doors 20 years agoAny big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I’m proud to have won multiple tournaments and team of the year with multiple partners in different circuits (NABC, Team trail, Up North etc) and Qualify for regionals a couple times through the State TOC
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Take a kid fishing, give kids at boat ramps or fishing piers baits and your time. Thank you to everyone who puts up with me in the boat (Rob, Joe, Jesse, Hayden, Travis, Trey, Al, Katie & the Kiddos)
Kai Vang
Back for another round of BassHeads Angler Spotlight. Today we have Kai Vang in the spotlight. Thanks Kai for taking the time to answer some questions about yourself.
How old are you?
Just turned 27.
What’s your occupation?
I used to work with the DNR fisheries on Mille Lacs and Aitkin, now I work in the medical device field.
Where do you live?
Saint Paul
How did you first get into bass fishing?
I used to fish a lot with my family for crappies and the bass would bite here and there, that intrigued me to learn more about them.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I fish some pick up tournaments and offer to be co-angler but no real club or group.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
My favorite technique for bass atm is finesse (ned rig, dropshot) and jerkbait.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Skeeter ZX190
What is your personal best largemouth?
6.3lb
What is your personal best smallmouth?
5.82lb
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Havoc (before Berkley), Zman, Megabass, and Strike King.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
No real big accomplishment like some of the pros on here but being able to get out on the water and have a good time is an accomplishment to me.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
One of my favorite quote “All men die, few ever really live”, take it how you must. Also I manage a fishing page, @Outdoorswithkai on mostly all social media platforms, follow my adventure there.
Vanessa Kaiser
Today we have another one of our female BassHeads in the Angler Spotlight. Vanessa Kaiser looooovvvvesss to bass fish and I absolutely love seeing her passion for the sport. Thanks for participating Vanessa!
How old are you?
33
What’s your occupation?
563 Union Laborer/ truck driver.
Where do you live?
Buffalo
How did you first get into bass fishing?
I first got into bass fishing when I was a kid and now that my kids are older I’ve started bass fishing again as of 4 years ago.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I’ve fished the Greenhorn Bass tour with Andrew and this year I’m fishing MN Bass Tour with Stephanie.
What are your favorite techniques for catching bass?
Black and Blue swim jig or Chatterbait
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
No boat. Catch me shoreside
What is your personal best largemouth?
5.1
What is your personal best smallmouth?
4.2
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
X-Zone, Daiwa, Megabass, Keitech, Dobyns & Suffix
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
3rd at the Waverly Lake Covid Classic, I was featured on a calendar for Ladies in the Outdoors, love to fish for fun. Just getting into tournament fishing.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I have 2 kids, a 15 year old girl and an 11 year old. When I’m not coaching my son in sports, I l love to share my fishing knowledge with kids and started volunteering for kids fishing clinics this summer as well as Future Anglers of Minnesota Ice fishing clinics.
I still have a lot to learn about bass fishing, but it’s what I’m most passionate about. I’m thankful to be apart of this group of great knowledgeable
anglers who love Bass Fishing. Good luck to everyone this season.
Jeffrey Ammermann
Today’s BassHead Angler Spotlight goes to Jeffrey Ammermann. Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions.
How Old are You?
51
What’s your Occupation?
Co-Owner of A+ Insurance Inc.
Where Do you Live?
Grove City, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My brothers and I would always go out on Lake Florida near Willmar MN. My family had a lake home on the lake as well as my Grandparents. We were always out fishing, having a good time.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I was a member of Central Lakes Bass Anglers for many years. My twin brother and I partnered up. I took a few years off now but I am thinking of joining up again this summer. Had a blast competing against some really good anglers such as Ron Mehr and Andy Nitchals. There are alot great anglers in that club.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Top water, fishing with a jig and ned rig.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
1997 Skeeter ZX 185c
What is your personal best largemouth?
5.25 lbs.
What is your personal best smallmouth?
4.3lbs
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Strike king, Rapala, Zman. Love Lews reels and ABU Veritas rods
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
No major accomplishments, I just love getting out in the boat to spend time with family & friends.
Quinn Gare
Today’s BassHead Angler Spotlight goes to one of our younger BassHeads in the group. Quinn Gare, thank you for taking some time to answer some questions and good luck in 2023!
How Old are You?
13
What’s your Occupation?
I am currently in 8th grade
Where Do you Live?
I currently live in Medford MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My dad, Jeremy Gare, bass fishes a lot and used to do a ton of tournaments, so ever since I was young I had a passion for bass
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I currently fish for the Owatonna Bass Fishing Team. Some tournament trails I fish are the RSATT and Lund Virtual tournaments.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
My favorite technique is either flipping milfoil or fishing docks
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Right now I fish out of a Nitro Z19
What is your personal best largemouth?
My personal best Largemouth is 6 even
What is your personal best smallmouth?
It may sound weird since I’m from MN but I’ve never fished smallmouth yet. This year I’m going to be on big smallmouth waters due to fishing the RSATT.
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Daiwa, Rapala, Strike King, Favorite Rods, Bizz Baits, and Omnia.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Some of my big accomplishments are making it in the newspaper for angler spotlight for my fishing team, and being in 80th something during a tourney and making it all the way up into the top ten in just a couple of hours.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Some advice for younger anglers are never give up or put your head down when you’re out on the water because things can change so quick in the sport of bass fishing always keep a positive mindset
John Janousek
We are ending this round of BassHeads Angler Spotlight with a good one, Mr. John Janousek! John is an absolute hammer and most BassHeads have at least heard the name! I’ve never met John in person before but I have followed him on fb the last year as he has been recovering from a massive stroke. John you are an inspiration to us all and I am happy to have you in the spotlight today!
How Old are You?
50 years old
What’s your Occupation?
Manufacturer sales rep. specializing in fishing and outdoor/rec at Rassat Outdoor Group.
Where Do you Live?
Pequot Lakes, Minnesota.
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Grew up fishing with my dad who is a bass fanatic too.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
North central bass
Minnesota bassheads
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Soft plastics, jigworm, finesse, whatever they want to eat.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Phoenix 20 footer.
What is your personal best largemouth?
7-pound largemouth.
What is your personal best smallmouth?
7-pound 15-ounce smallmouth, one ounce shy from tying the MN record.
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Rapala, Storm, 13 Fishing, VMC, Flying Fisherman.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
International Falls Bass Champion, 2nd place Fort Francis Bass Championship, numerous top-10s at I-Falls and Fort Francis, multiple central MN league and derby victories.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Married, two daughters, I suffered a massive stroke almost a year ago. It has been a long and tough recovery learning to form words again and regain life without the use of my right side. But I’m fishing again with use of electric reels and hope to compete again at Fort Francis and I-Falls, my two favorite tournaments. The support I’ve received from fellow anglers and the fishing industry since my stroke has been amazing. Thanks to all!
Sam Rardin
Back at it for another round of BassHeads Angler Spotlight. Today we have Sam Rardin in the spotlight. If you guys like brown footballs, you might want to follow this guy on fb. Sam is one of the Mille Lacs area guides and seems to always be on the water. Thanks for the info Sam!
How old are you?
36
What’s your occupation?
Fishing Guide on Mille Lacs / Human Services for at risk teens
Where do you live?
Brainerd, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Fishing a local club derby as a co-angler
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)? Range Bass masters
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Moving Baits
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2014 Skeeter FX20
What is your personal best largemouth?
6.9
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6.4
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Daiwa USA , Outkast Tackle, Toxic Rods, Simms Fishing, Blue storm PFD’s
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I Started a guide service based around fishing both smallmouth & largemouth bass tournament style.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Happily married , outside of fishing I love shooting pistol & rifle , Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, working out , and hanging with the fam.
Riley Arndt
Riley Arndt is in our BassHeads Angler Spotlight today! Riley always seems to be getting into the bigguns! Thank you for participating and answering a few questions.
How old are you?
29
What’s your occupation?
Industrial Equipment Sales
Where do you live?
Morris, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Growing up as a kid in the 90’s on Big Stone we were surrounded with some of the greatest walleye fishing in the state. I remember always getting to watch my dad at weigh ins during the Team Walleye Tournament Trail, RCL, MWT, and MWC walleye tournament weigh ins. As I got older and we were able to do some tournaments together I remember us catching some 5lb largies while pre fishing. Mixing those big bass experiences with an obsession of watching Bill Dance Outdoors and Roland Martin as a kid sucked me right into the sport. To this day my dads old fishing partners still call me “Roland”
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Due to work travels I can’t make it to most weekly league nights, but if I can I’ll jump into a few Glacial Lakes Bass Master Thursday nighters. I’ll be doing the MNBN Team Trail, spring and fall Big Stone Opens, and hopefully Reel Team Bass for tournaments this year.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
I’m a sucker for stuffing crankbaits in their mouths and dropping jigs on their heads for sure. A close runner up is dragging a big worm behind some lead.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2019 Vexus AVX1980 with a 150 G2
What is your personal best largemouth?
6.69
What is your personal best smallmouth?
5.55
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Rapala, Berkley, Strike King, Daiwa, and Big Bite Baits to name a few.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I’ve got to film a few episodes with Mike Frisch on Fishing the Midwest over the years which is always a fun time (and Mike is a great mentor). A handful of tournament checks but a big win is still eluding me!
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I am married to an amazing wife named Emily who supports my abundant spending habits on fishing gear and after two years of hard work We are finally expecting our first child in May. I’m excited to share the outdoors with my kids just as my dad did with me! Any advice you BassHeads have for a first time dad, I’m all ears
I’m a firm believer in my faith and I always encourage people to reach out if they are ever going through hardship or need an open ear. A lot of us men internalize our struggles and I’ve always been passionate about helping others through difficult battles in life. Never hesitate to reach out bass brothers 
Rachel Raveling
Sorry folks, I missed yesterday’s spotlight. For Today’s spotlight we have Rachel Raveling. Most Minnesota bass fisherman know the last name and bass fishing runs deep through that families bloodline! Rachel is consistently on the water chasing those fish we love so much. Thank you so much for participating, Rachel!
How old are you?
47
What’s your occupation?
Criminal Analyst with the Department of Homeland Security
Where do you live?
Currently deployed to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic but Fargo, ND & Stillwater, MN are home for now! South Carolina bound in May! Lake Murray will be my new stumping ground!
How did you first get into bass fishing?
By the one and only, Mark Raveling! My dad had all of us kids (Shane, Ryan and myself) out fishing from the moment we could hold a rod.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)? None
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Can’t go wrong with a little crankbait action!
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
None, the kid has claimed the Champion
What is your personal best largemouth?
7.62
What is your personal best smallmouth?
Weighed 5.54 but I’ve caught a couple closer to 6 along the way!
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Rapala, Shimano, St. Croix Mojo, TFO, G. Loomis
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Biggest accomplishment is passing on the love of fishing to my son, Carter. As a parent, I get way more enjoyment out of watching him fish and compete in tournaments! Love watching him grow as an angler!
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Pro tip: Get your kids into fishing! They will not be able to afford to get into trouble in the future cause all their money will be spent on fishing gear 
Bill Fraser
Today’s Angler Spotlight goes to Mr. Billy Rub himself, Bill Fraser. Thank you for answering some questions about yourself!
How old are you?
I am 55 years old
What’s your occupation?
I am 55 years old
What’s your occupation?
I am the owner of Billy Rub and BRB Baits. We manufacture scent products and Protein infused plastics.
Where do you live?
My family and I live in the Minnetonka/Hopkins area.
How did you first get into bass fishing?
I was turned onto Bass fishing in my early teens a friend of mine had gone to camp fish in Walker, MN and said how much fun he had, so on our bike rides around lake Minnetonka during the summer Bass became the focus to try and catch..
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I currently fish the Greenhorn advance opti cast division and Thursday nights with SMBF.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
As far as techniques I love my jigs and jig worms, tubes and drop shot.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
I currently Run a Ranger 681 VS its been a great boat
What is your personal best largemouth?
I never really had a good scale to record my catches but I’ve caught some big Largemouths pushing 7 for sure.
What is your personal best smallmouth?
And Smallmouth again didn’t have a good scale but high 5’vs for sure.
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Obviously I’m a little Partial to my own brand as far as lures, reels I like Daiwa and Rods I’m all over the place.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
My biggest accomplishment in fishing. I have a 3rd place finish on Leech against Capra’s, Linders, Moynagh, and Petersons back in the 90’s.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I have Two kids my sons 13 and is playing football at Hopkins and my Daughter is 11 and she is playing hockey for Hopkins/Park girl 10u.
I make and design all the baits and am always open for input. If we don’t currently make your color just ask, id be happy to whip you up some in one of our designs.
I make and design all the baits and am always open for input. If we don’t currently make your color just ask, id be happy to whip you up some in one of our designs.
www.billyrub.fishor 218-686-7258. Thanks for taking a moment to read this. Bill
Zach Hampton
Zach Hampton is in today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight. A NE metro angler that loves to chase the green and brown ones. Thanks for participating Zach.
How old are you?
35
What’s your occupation?
Distribution Center Manager.
Where do you live?
Hugo
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Started fishing for bass with my dad when I was 5. Grew up in Missouri fishing Lake of the Ozarks and Mark Twain Lake
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Greenhorn Advanced Sundays
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Dragging a jig for schooling fish
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2002 Ranger 518vx with a 200 pro xs 4s
What is your personal best largemouth?
6 lbs 8 oz.
What is your personal best smallmouth?
5 lbs 14 oz
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Dobyns, Daiwa, outkast, missile, zman, rapala
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Nick Palmer and I won 1st on East/West Rush last year. But honestly, anytime I can get out on the water I’m happy
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Been married for 11 years and have 2 boys, three and one years old
Chris Vang
I am back from Vaca and we are back with the BassHeads Angler Spotlight! Today we have Sun WuKong in the spotlight. Thank you so much for sharing some information with the group about yourself.
Actual name : Chris Vang
How old are you? 35
What’s your occupation? Accounting
Where do you live? MN
How did you first get into bass fishing? From my pops and uncle
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)? None
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass? NED, Neko, Jigging, Frog/Toad, GIANT SWIMBAITS
What boat (if any) do you currently have? 2013 Bass Tracker Pro170
What is your personal best largemouth? 5Lber
What is your personal best smallmouth? 4Lbs 08oz
What are some of your favorite fishing brands? Shimano, Daiwa, Missile Baits, Megabass, Gan Craft, Huddleston, Dream Smasher Swimbaits, Keitech, Gary’s , Evergreen, Spro, Phenix Rods…
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler? none as of yet
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)? None
Brian Wick
Today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight goes to Mr. Brian Wick. This guy knows how to catch em! Thanks for participating Brian.
How old are you?
51
What’s your occupation?
30 year UPS driver but I like to say I’ve been an unemployed fisheries biologist since 1995 when I graduated from U of MN with a fisheries/wildlife management degree.
Where do you live?
Rural Buffalo. I get to catch bass in my back yard.
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Randy Burnham asked me to fish a small club tournament when I was in college. Gave up walleye fishing soon after!
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
MN TBF member
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Prespawn jerkbait bite and the late fall smallie football jig/blade bite.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Phoenix 21PHX
What is your personal best largemouth?
6.11
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6.10
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
I’m a Shimano/Loomis guy mostly but run Daiwa spinning reels.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Being pulled through the top ten tent at the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship was an absolute blast! Catching 22.5lbs on day two of last years St. Jude tournament with my partner Greg Savino and jumping into the money against all the river rats was fun too.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Married my awesome wife Melissa three years ago. She is getting to be a good angler! We have four adult children that are scattering all over the country for college and grad school.
David Cindrich
Swimbait master David Cindrich is in the BassHeads Angler Spotlight! If anyone has big swimbait questions, this is the man to ask!
How old are you?
54 years young
What’s your occupation?
Union Iron Worker, Local 512. 25 years.
Where do you live?
St. Paul, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
I grew up fishing Leach Lake for walleyes with my family, a former friend introduced me to bass fishing when I was about 15 years old. I played around fishing for walleyes for a few more years, but living in the metro area, my heart was into bass fishing. At the time, the metro area had some of the best bass angling in the state, and I had a hard time leaving the metro area to pursue walleye.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I no longer really belong to a club, but spent a few years as Gopher Bassmaster.
What are your favorite techniques for catching bass?
I lean heavy on soft swimbaits for bass, but enjoy hard swimbaits also. In general, I have been all in for swimbaits since about 2008. I started throwing larger swimbaits in 2006 but basically went all in about 2008. I will sometimes throw conventional bass stuff when a guest in my boat cannot find the patience to find a swimbait bite or targeting smallmouth eating crustaceans.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
I ran glass for 22 years, I recently down sized into 16′ Starcraft with a 70 horse Yamaha. I downed sized because in general, I fish alone and seeking large bass on smaller waters.
What is your personal best largemouth?
3 MN bass over 7 pounds.
What is your personal best smallmouth?
MN smallmouth 22 ¾ “
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
I have to say right now is www.DCswimbaits.com 6.5” DC Shad. It is a bait that I developed from my experience fishing swimbaits here in MN. I have done a soft release, but I have a feeling when more MN swimbait anglers get their hands on these, they will fully understand how large profile soft baits work in MN and across the country.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I feel one of my larger accomplishments has been spreading the word of swimbait fishing here in Minnesota. I founded Swimbait Universe FB Group with a friend and fellow Minnesotan Eric Aske. Years ago, with the founding of Swimbait Universe and our old website Upper Midwest Swimbaits, I feel like we opened more than a few eyes about swimbaits in Minnesota and set some good roots that these big baits are very viable ways to pursue largemouth and smallmouth in the Upper Midwest.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I’m married and a proud father of two young ladies and very excited about my endeavors to get DC Swimbaits to the market.
Matt Sonnen
Today’s BassHeads AnglerSpot Light goes to Matt Sonnen. Thanks Matt for taking the time to answer some questions.
How old are you?
34
What’s your occupation?
Superintendent for a commercial general contractor
Where do you live?
Raised in Stillwater but just crossed the river into new Richmond
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My dad, he used to fish all the big local tournaments back in the day. (Silverado, Don Shelby is invitational etc)
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
None currently
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Jigs, cranking, Texas rigged anything and recently have gotten obsessed with jerkbait fishing.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
I have a 1997 ranger 487vs Comanche
What is your personal best largemouth?
Hard to say, didn’t have a scale when I cought it but it was 24.5″ long and 20″ around when I was 14 years old
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6.5# from Idaho, hopefully changing that this April!
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
I am a big fan of anything 6th sense makes.
Berkely, G Loomis, Shimano, sunline, megabass and zoom.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
1st place Northern Wholesale Tournament on Tonka in 2018 and big bass in the 2021 Legends Tournament on balsam.
Tim Schroeder
Today we have Tim Schroeder in our BassHeads Angler Spotlight. I’ve never met Tim before but you can tell this guy has the bass bug! Thank you for answering some questions, Tim!
How old are you?
46
What’s your occupation?
Police Officer
Where do you live?
Waseca
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Grew up fishing as a kid, my grandpa first introduced me and my buddies & I would fish against each other for fun.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)? Currently fishing the Champions Tour & The Blackfish Tournament for 2023
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
The Schroeder Shake & Stupid Stickin’
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2018 Skeeter ZX250
What is your personal best largemouth?
8.14
What is your personal best smallmouth?
7.04
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
FXR ProFish, Abu Garcia, G Loomis, OutKast Tackle, M-Y Wedge Transom Saver
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Boat captaining several high school fishing teams to fish the nationals, helping my buddy Noah Schultz when his boat quit during a tournament and fishing along side many great anglers from Minnesota.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Fishing is my therapy and I wouldn’t be able to do it without the support of my wife, family, friends, sponsors and my two dogs!
Jesse Lange
In today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight we have Mr. Jesse Lange! Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions Jesse!
How old are you?
41
What’s your occupation?
Field service technician Atlas Toyota Material Handling
Where do you live?
Zimmerman MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Was about 10-12 years old bobber fishing on buffalo lake, my dad got out a 10″ power worm and slung it up in the weeds and said watch this in about 5-10 minutes we’ll see what happens, well he ended up with a 5 lb bass and I was hooked ever since!
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Been fishing the North Metro Bass Club for around 20 years, a few Reel Team tourneys, last year started fishing Big Stick Saturday’s as much as I could also used to fish Full Throttle Series
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
I’ve always been a dock/slop guy but in recent years really been fishing every technique in the book, really love off-shore
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Ranger Z520
What is your personal best largemouth?
5.49
What is your personal best smallmouth?
5.13
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
St Croix, Fenwick, Abu, Lew’s, Berkley, Zoom, BRB baits
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Just quite a few wins in North Metro & had big bass in a Full Throttle Minnetonka tournament (which is an accomplishment on that lake for me! )
)What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I’m married to my awesome wife Autumn that doesn’t care when, where or who I fish with haha, no kids just a few animals running around
Olivia Hendricks
In today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight, we have another lady hammer, Olivia Hendricks! Thank you so much for participating and answering some questions.
How old are you?
45
What’s your occupation?
Regional Procurement Office Acquisition Career Management Liaison Officer
Where do you live?
St Croix Falls WI
How did you first get into bass fishing?
As a little girl growing up in Oklahoma, my grandmother would take me bass fishing with worms and cane pole. I was hooked at an early age. Years later co-worker talked me into fishing a bass tournament with a local club and the rest is history.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
American Bass Anglers & B.A.S.S.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Finesse , Texas Rig
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2001 Ranger R93
What is your personal best largemouth?
8.48
What is your personal best smallmouth?
4.55
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Favorite Fishing Rods, 6th Sense Lures, Woo! Tungsten, Samantis soft plastics,
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I won the ABA District 112 Championship in TX and continue to compete at a national level encouraging other ladies to get involved!
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Moved up north from Texas in Oct 2020 and learning to navigate and fish these northern waters. I have fished from the CA Delta to Lake Hartwell and all in between. Always looking for a day on the water!
Mark Shirley
In today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight we have Mr. Mark Shirley. This dude knows how to catchem and catchem good! Thank you Mark for taking the time to answer some questions.
How Old are you?
30 years old
What is your occupation?
Accountant for Blattner Energy
Where do you live?
Sartell, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Grew up fishing Sunnies with my dad and catching a bass was always way better and more exciting.
Got into tournament fishing by winning a casting kids event and joining the Jr. Granite City Bassmasters
What Club or tournament group do you belong to?
N/A
What are your favorite techniques for catching bass?
I love smallmouth and my favorite way to catch them is dragging a tube
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2007 Triton Tr-19
What is your personal best largemouth?
I was younger but it was fat AF so about 7 lbs
What is our personal best smallmouth?
6.75 lbs
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Sunline
Abu Garcia
Vocelka Fishing Rods
All-Terrain Tackle
Blackfish Gear
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Qualifying for the Jr national championship in South Carolina when I was 16
Winning the Green Lake Summer Classic in back-to-back years with my dad
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community? (kids, married, etc)
Married to my amazing wife Breanna and we have our best friend yellow lab named Mylie
One of my favorite fishing stories: I was fishing a tourney on Koronis with James Chapman. It was mid afternoon and we were pulling up to one of our favorite spots. As we pull up, James sarcastically says, just grab the net right away. Well my smartass did exactly that. Before he even made a cast I was standing right behind him just holding the net. Well as luck would have it, he hooked into a nice smallie after only a few cranks of the reel. It was one of those days where everything just went right.
Shout-out to my great tournament partners Matt Garfield, James Chapman, and Aaron Teal
Shout-out to my great tournament partners Matt Garfield, James Chapman, and Aaron Teal
Chad Edding
In today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight we have the guy behind the camera, Mr. Chad Eddings. Not only can this guy do work with the camera, he also can snatch up some bigguns. Thanks for answering some questions, Chad.
How old are you?
50
What’s your occupation?
Senior Network & Infrastructure Engineer
Where do you live?
Champlin
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Climbing fences in western Oklahama, fishing small farm ponds with my float tube and Abu Garcia 5500C.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Viking Bassmasters
What are your favorite techniques for catching bass?
Tough to say, that seems to change year-to-year, but I’m a sucker for glides and 6-8″ soft plastic swimbaits. Last year I always had a 3/4oz hair jig tied on too.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
1993 Ranger 492VS
What is your personal best largemouth?
9lbs – Falcon Lake, Zapata TX
What is your personal best smallmouth?
4.94lbs
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
I like supporting local brands and shops as much as possible. This winter I picked up a couple of those Dane Vocelka spinning rods that Arsenal is carrying that I’m looking forward to using this year. As far as major brands go, it is tough to beat a Shimano Curado or Vanford.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Not really, haha.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHeads community (kids, married, etc)?
Since moving up from Oklahoma in late 2013, I’ve met some great people in this bassheads community, some of them I even get to call friends. I’ve been fortunate enough to do on-the-water photography for the Dick Hiley St. Jude Bass Classic, the Classic Bass Champions Tour and the Student Angler Tournament Trail.
Nate Wenner
Nate Wenner is in our BassHeads Angler Spotlight on this Friday afternoon! Super nice guy and also knows how to catch some bigs! Thanks for participating, Nate!
How old are you?
41
What’s your occupation?
Self Employed
Where do you live?
Outside of Saint Peter, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
I grew up loving ANYTHING hunting & fishing because I wanted to be like my hero (dad). We fished some crappie and muskie derbs together but mostly meat fished for walleye. He is about as focused on walleye as I now am on bass but we both love time outdoors chasing anything.
Bass fishing took over when my wife was pregnant with our first. She refused to eat fish during pregnancy which led to pursuing bass since they’re so fun to catch. I ran into a local hammer who started talking to me since we kept seeing each other at the landing. He asked if I had any interest in tournaments and that’s when the real sickness began lol…we’ve fished together in local derbies since 2011.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
My friend Tony and I are dipping our toes into MNBN this season. We’re not naïve about the level of competition but we’ll have a good time and learn a bunch.
What are your favorite techniques for catching bass?
I struggle to say I have a favorite. Whatever works on a given day is my favorite lol
My favorite part of bass fishing is all the plausible techniques…the endless learning is a big draw for me.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
I currently have a Triton TR-21 and Skeeter FX21. I spent all my money on the Skeeter this past fall in a weak moment and have been rigging it over the winter. I plan to list the Triton but am dragging my feet…I’ve owned 4 bass boats and it has been by far my favorite.
What is your personal best largemouth?
7.65lbs
What is your personal best smallmouth?
What are those?? I’ve caught a few while walleye fishing in northern waters that probably pushed 5lbs but hardly have any experience pursuing them.
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
The only lures I really “geek out” on are ones made by people I’ve met or talked to on the phone and understand the blood, sweat, and tears involved. I have rods and reels from several brands which is probably dumb. I’m sure it pays to become intimate with a lineup.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Every derby I weigh 5 fish and don’t embarrass myself is big to me. My son isn’t a big fisherman yet but we won a 1919 Root Beer tourney two years ago. He keeps the trophies in his bedroom and I occasionally hear him talk about them to his friends. I’d have to say that makes me feel big proud. I guess the most relevant here would be placing 2nd in the BassHeads derby last fall.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHeads community (kids, married, etc)?
I am married with two children. Anybody sick with the fishing bug should understand how much their spouse sacrifices and I try to keep myself cognizant of that. She has been fully supportive since day one. We spend all our winter weekends at travelling basketball tournaments. I love watching kids compete and learn life lessons through sports.
I want to thank you, Tony. I appreciate the community you’ve created and recognize the time you must invest. I try to limit myself with regard to fakebook but I always visit the BassHeads page when I am on. Most people in my daily life see my passion for bass fishing as a mental illness but this group says otherwise. Thanks again!
Hayden Anderson
Today’s BassHeads Spotlight Angler goes to a smallmouth hammer! Hayden Anderson knows how to catch them brown ones from early spring until the ice covers the lakes. Dude is no slouch with the green ones either. Thanks for answering some questions Hayden.
How old are you?
25
What’s your occupation?
Plumber
Where do you live?
Poplar, WI
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Grew up hunting and fishing with my dad, bass just caught my attention early on around middle school and have completely taken over my life ever since.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
MNBN Team Trail
What are your favorite techniques for catching bass?
Jerkbaits, swimbaits, hair jigs
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2016 Triton 21TRX
What is your personal best largemouth?
7.25lb largemouth
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6.48lb smallmouth
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
All-Terrain, Arsenal, Blackfish, SPM, Vocelka custom rods, Shimano, Supreme lure Co
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Last winter I started up a guide service that I run based out of northern Wisconsin focusing mainly out of the Hayward area. It’s been a lot of fun sharing some cool moments with people new to fishing showing them what it’s all about. Some recent tournament accomplishments would be winning an Up North Bass tournament on Pokegama in July last year with my buddy Mike and then also winning Pokegama Fall Brawl with my buddy Johnston in October.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHeads community (kids, married, etc)?
Last August I married my amazing wife who has since talked me into getting a second dog because dogs are “her thing” and fishing is mine. I couldn’t argue. And like I previously mentioned I guide on the weekends in northern Wisconsin so if anyone is looking for a weekend get away this summer, Hayward is a beautiful area with lots of cool lakes full of my favorite fish (smallmouth) so if you’re interested in getting out for a trip don’t hesitate to get in touch with me!
Erik Gaffron
Today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight is on Erik Gaffron. This guy has his hands in a lot of Bass fishing media and is making his way around the national bass fishing scene. The guy can also catch em good! Thanks for answering some questions Erik!
How old are you?
28
What’s your occupation?
Freelance writer, photographer and general media guy. I also will be working at Waypoint Angler Supply (opening soon!) on the shores of Lake Minnetonka.
Where do you live?
Cologne, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Does one really ever know? Kidding of course, I actually caught my first bass at the age of 6. Just a 12 or 13-incher, but that started me down a path I’m fortunate to still be headed down. Got into my first tournaments thanks to a High School teacher I had and just never really have been able to get enough of it since
.
Kidding of course, I actually caught my first bass at the age of 6. Just a 12 or 13-incher, but that started me down a path I’m fortunate to still be headed down. Got into my first tournaments thanks to a High School teacher I had and just never really have been able to get enough of it since.What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Formerly Viking Bassmasters and Aquaholics, also a non active member of Lunker Squad.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
A jig… I mean c’Mon, there’s something thoroughly satisfying about giving a fish “the nuts” with a jig. I also love a good topwater bite, swimbait bite and catching them on a spinnerbait when the weather is nasty.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Boat-less, but it’s only a matter of time (and money) before I’ll be puttering around Tonka on some rig I scrap up to try to win some money back
What is your personal best largemouth?
6-00
What is your personal best smallmouth?
5-04
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Arsenal Fishing
Lateral Vision
MegaBass
Daiwa
Waypoint Angler Supply
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I’ve done a little bit here in MN co-angler state championship runner-up. Regional team qualification and club championships. To be honest I feel like I have a long way to go before we are reaching my goals in this sport at both a local and National level. Proud of how far I’ve come as an angler in 11 years of tournaments though.
I’ve been very fortunate to do a lot behind the scenes in the industry through work, but I’m incredibly proud of becoming a freelance writer and photographer with MLF. If you would have told me 5-10 years ago I’d be getting that level of opportunity I’d say you’re crazy.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
It’s just me and my fishing habit (shoutout to mom and dad though).
(shoutout to mom and dad though).I actually wanna use this space to thank the anglers that have influenced me so much in my early years especially. The guys at Viking Bassmasters and the guys (more recently) in LunkerSquad pushed me at a local level to be a better angler and remain lifelong fishing friends. Everyone who’s ever put up with me in the boat for at least a day, I owe them all so much more than gas money. I’ve been fortunate to have really solid influences and good friends in the fishing world, and I hope to continue to cultivate such positive experiences from the fishing community.
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Shawn Anderson
Shawn Anderson is in today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight. Shawn is making a name for himself in the marine mechanic business but can also put some bigguns in the boat. Thanks for participating, Shawn!
How old are you?
26 years old
What’s your occupation?
I own/operate Wide Open Marine LLC doing marine repair and rigging
Where do you live?
Arlington MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My grandpa took me fishing in Tennessee for panfish when I was about 5 years old
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Currently not associated with any club but may look in the future, never had time with previous employment
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Flipping offshore weeds
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2000 Bullet 20XF 16’ Mercury 250 Pro XS, it was actually the boat I went fishing with my grandpa in and caught my first fish. She got quite the facelift since I have picked it up.
What is your personal best largemouth?
7 lbs – Lake Okeechobee
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6 lbs
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Shimano and G Loomis
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Not necessarily big but a few years ago I won 3 tournaments consecutively, that was a blast.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I have a girlfriend of almost 3 years and 2 dogs. Looking forward to meeting and working with many of the other bassheads in the future!
Eric Aske
We are back with another BassHeads Angler Spotlight post! Today we have a guy that was known for his swimbait fishing in the state of MN, Mr. Eric Aske! This guy is a big fish magnet! Thanks or answering some questions, Eric!
How old are you?
45
What’s your occupation?
Logistics Broker
Where do you live?
Isle, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Family exposure at a very young age, and Saturday morning fishing shows.. Bill Dance Outdoors, In Fisherman and Larry Dahlberg’s Hunt for Big Fish were my faves.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
None!
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
I love all of the variety that comes with seasonal progression, and understanding forage and habitat from lake to lake, and how that affects positioning and behavior. The challenge of learning new ways to catch the same fish, and always doing something a little differently than the masses brings me a real sense of accomplishment.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2013 Charger 797 / Yamaha SHO 250
What is your personal best largemouth?
8-8
What is your personal best smallmouth?
7-4
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Unsponsored- Shimano, Loomis, Outkast, Zman, Berkley powerbait, 6th Sense makes some cool shit.. Megabass, Deps, Mattlures, Imakatsu and various custom swimbait builders.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
David Cindrich and I were the original founders of Swimbait Universe which has evolved into a heavy influence in the bass fishing community. I fished my first tournament in 15 years in 2021, at the City Auto Glass Bass Classic on Mille Lacs with Sharaku Kishida, and was happy to take 3rd place (still got it LOL)
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
It’s always been my life’s mission to bust the MN state record for large and smallmouth bass, and consider myself to be a true trophy hunter. I’ve caught a total combined 26 bass over 7 pounds in MN, 3 smallies and the rest largemouth. The 8-8 was back in 1991, and would have been the record at the time (assuming my old spring loaded Zebco Deliar scale was accurate), and had I not dropped it back in the drink while admiring it one more time, halfway across the lake from where I’d caught it… hoping to one day bring a happy ending to that lifelong story of pursuit.
Tom Dobbins
Today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight goes to Tom Dobbins. Thank you for taking some time to answer some questions, Tom!
How old are you?
41 years old
What’s your occupation?
Curtainwall designer / photographer
Where do you live?
Blaine, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
First fishing experiences were tending trot lines daily on the Bayou with my grandpa down in Arkansas, started at about 3 weeks old. By the time I was about 4 years old I was watching all the Bass fishing shows on TNN on Saturday mornings, dreaming of the day I could get a bass boat. Rummaged thru my dad’s tackle box and started catching them about that same time. Been addicted to bass pretty much my whole life.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I don’t have any tourney or club affiliations but do have a lifetime membership to B.A.S.S. I occasionally will jump in as a partner on a tourney or two.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
My favorite ways to catch bass, dang there are a lot. I love throwing Jerkbaits, pitching jigs, and cranking. My favorite though, and brings me back to the early days has to be a spinnerbait. I’ve got a pile of those old Terminator titanium spinnerbaits and I always have a couple tied up ready to go.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
I’m running a 2008 Bass Cat Pantera 2 DC with a 200 Optimax, set up with everything other than poles/raptors.
What is your personal best largemouth?
PB largemouth I didn’t put on a scale, but it was 24” and thick on a pond down south. MN PB is 21.5” prespawner on an Outkast Swim Jig.
What is your personal best smallmouth?
PB smallie was a 21.5 out of Mille Lacs around 2009 crankin.
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Daiwa, Bass Cat, Blackfish, Rapala
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
No real big accomplishments as a bass angler, don’t fish many tourneys, just love being out on the water.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I have a son, Hunter. He used to fish with me a lot, he is in a phase right now where he doesn’t want to fish with dad, at least I hope it’s a phase. We did quite well in a couple of crappie tourneys back in the day. I have a girlfriend, Mel Melser and we fish together a LOT. She is one hell of an angler too, she’ll back deck me with a Neko Senko pretty often, and not much makes me happier than seeing her catch em. We’re usually out 60-75 times a year in the boat and fish on the ice together as well. We also make plastic baits together and really enjoy catching fish on stuff we make. We shoot a bunch of panfish plastics and anytime we see kids out fishing on docks or from shore, even out on boats, we give them a pile of jigs and plastics, show them how to rig them up and catch fish with them. Seeing their faces light up when it clicks is something that never gets old.
The other mention is the photography stuff I do. I shoot photos for the Ultimate Panfish League ice tournament series as well as usually helping out for the Blackfish Classic. I’ve met a lot of people I consider great friends in the fishing community from the photography side. One of the ways I like to give back to the fish junkies.
Violet Lee
We are starting off this Friday morning with the BassHeads Angler Spotlight on one of the young lady anglers, Violet Lee. Really great to see more and more women getting into this sport. Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions, Violet. Also thank you Svaj Axyooj for forwarding this on.
How old are you?
I’m 16 years old
What’s your occupation?
High school student, traditional Hmong dancer and bass fishing
Where do you live?
Minnesota
How did you first get into bass fishing?
I started to be interested in bass fishing after I went fishing for whitebass. I loved the excitement of the fish fighting back. So when I noticed my school had a bass club I joined and made it to State Championship the same year, so now I want to continue and strive for the best.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I’m currently still fishing with Hmong College Prep Academy Bass Team.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
I love a simple senko worm or jigs.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
I don’t own a boat this moment.
What is your personal best largemouth?
3.7 lb
What is your personal best smallmouth?
4.43 lbs
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Blackfish Gear, Yamamoto Senko, Shimano, Seagur, St. Criox Rods, Zman.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Made is to MN JR. BASS Nation High School State Championship.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Bass fishing isn’t just a sport for men. It can be for women and girls as well, so I encourage you all to join the sport. Also remember to be kind and humble. TIGHT LINES!
Nathan Fahlin
In Today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight, we have Mr. Nathan Fahlin. One of our bank beater BassHeads that doesn’t need a boat to get after some of the bigguns! Thanks for participating, Nathan.
How old are you?
39
What’s your occupation?
Warehouse Specialist
Where do you live?
Elk River, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
A college friend (Moua Yeng Xiong) got me into it. He helped me buy my first combo-Berkley E-Motion and Abu Garcia ProMax. This was 2016, I had caught bass off and on as a kid/teenager.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I fish a Wednesday night league that’s sponsored by Joe’s.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Smallmouth: tubes, small football jigs, and jerkbaits. Largemouth: swim-jigs, frogs, and spinnerbaits
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
No boat, hoping to have a kayak by next spring.
What is your personal best largemouth?
4.15 on a Z-Man Jackhammer
What is your personal best smallmouth?
4lbs 
1/4oz Keitech football jig
1/4oz Keitech football jigWhat are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Daiwa, Megabass, Zoom, River2Sea, Sunline, Zoom, Berkley, Dirty Jigs, and Evergreen
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Couple W’s on league nights.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Iraq veteran-fishing has been a big part of finding myself after some traumatic experiences and finding healing. Never discount the hole your absence would leave.
Trey Fails
We are back with a new BassHeads Angler Spotlight. Took a little break last week but we are jumping right back into with a local metro angler that has a passion for this sport like no other! Trey Fails is in the spotlight today. Thanks for answering some questions, sir!
How old are you?
26
What’s your occupation?
Coordinator of Diversion Services for Hennepin County
Where do you live?
Brooklyn Center, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
I remember finding a spinnerbait in my dad’s tackle box when I was 6 or 7, I hated bobber fishing so I figured I’d try that goofy thing and I started catching bass. Fell in love with it and it quickly turned into an obsession.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
The best club in the State…Lunkersquad Bassmasters
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
I feel most comfortable with a jig/Texas rig in my hand, but I’ll do anything to get bit lol!
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
04 Triton Tr186
What is your personal best largemouth?
5-11
What is your personal best smallmouth?
4-14
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Arsenal Fishing, Powell Rods, Yo-Zuri, Advanced Tackle, Bagley Baits and Riot Baits
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I qualified as a Co to fish the State Tournament my first year fishing with Lunkersquad, and from there qualified to fish the Regional Tournament(didn’t go so hot for me but I helped the team find some fish and made awesome friendships which was dope). Going to switch to the front of the boat this season and I’m excited to test myself for sure.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I’ll be getting married this September to my best friend who is by far my #1 fan. We’re fishing a Wednesday Nighter and Blackfish together this year and she might be more competitive than me lol
And some people probably know me as The Dreaded Outdoors, but I’ve been working the past few years to turn my social media handle into something bigger. Slowly but surely, The Dreaded Outdoors or TDO, has been transitioning to include Outdoor Mentorship, Youth Mentorship, Various Outdoor Classes, Guided Experiences and a Shop. I was working my ass off to get it fully up and running by May or June but kids have been liking to get themselves into trouble recently and my caseload is well above 200. So for now, we’re going to roll things out slowly but definitely surely…
Trevor Kachina
We are back with another BassHeads Angler Spotlight. Today we have one of our younger bass anglers in the spotlight, Trevor Kachina. Thanks for taking the time to answer some questions!
How old are you?
I’m 16 years old
What’s your occupation?
I currently work at Vados Bait
Where do you live?
Live in Blaine
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Fished my first bass tournament through the slp high school league and have been hooked since
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
High school fishing team for spring lake park high school
What are your favorite techniques for catching bass?
Drop shot will always be a favorite for techniques
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Don’t own a boat
What is your personal best largemouth?
PB largemouth is 5.2
What is your personal best smallmouth?
PB smallmouth is 2 something
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Berkley and Diawa are my favorite
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
My biggest accomplishment is the first fishing tournament I was in I won it with my partner and his brother Brock and Evan
Jay Johnson
In today’s BassHeads Anger Spotlight, we have Mr. Tiny Boats of MN himself, Jay Johnson. All around great dude and guy can catch some fish! Thanks for participating Jay!
How old are you?
37
Where do you live?
Bloomington, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
As a kid we used to go camp every weekend on Little Carnelian, pops would put a fire tail Kelly on my spinning rod and I was hooked after my first bass
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Tiny Boats of Minnesota Team Trail
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Flipping, Punching, Cranking and finesse or what ever it takes to get bit
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Decked out Jon
What is your personal best largemouth?
5.96
What is your personal best smallmouth?
4.11
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
RLVNT, Blackfish, All Terrain, Powerbait, Spro, Got’m Jigs, Khangbroslures, Roboworm and so many more
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Starting Tiny Boats of Minnesotas tiny boat league and seeing some of these folks join bigger boat tournaments after learning tournament fishing
Being the 2022 battle of the Bassheads tournament director on BigStone
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I’m just an average joe that just wants to fish, enjoy life and make it the best it can be. I am married and have a beautiful 8 year old daughter.
Parker Knudsen
Today we have a local young hammer that is in the BassHeads Spotlight. Parker Knudsen can be found cashing checks from Tonka down to Toledo Bend!!! Thank you for taking some time to answer some questions, Parker.
-How old are you?
25 years old
-What’s your occupation?
Self-Employed – Bass Guide Service
-Where do you live?
Excelsior
-How did you first get into bass fishing?
When I was a kid, I was fortunate to grow up on a small lake on the outskirts of the Twin Cities. On the weekends, I would wait painfully while my parents ate breakfast and watched the news. As soon as it ended, I would flip to the fishing channel and watch Bill Dance. I watched intently, my desire to learn and fish grew stronger each time Most days, I would venture to the lake in my small duck boat and dream of fishing professionally one day.
-What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Gopher Bass , Denny’s Super 30. Recently started doing the co-angling with B.A.S.S.
-What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Whatever they are biting on, I try to master all techniques each and every day i’m on the water. If I had to pick though, flippin submerged grass.
-What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Phoenix 20 PHX with a 4 stroke Mercury Pro XS 250
-What is your personal best largemouth?
9.6lbs on Lake Kissimmee, Florida
-What is your personal best smallmouth?
6.5lbs on Lake Mille lacs, Minnesota
-What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Shimano, G-Loomis, OutKast Tackle, Simms, Megabass
-Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
2019:
43rd Annual Viking Invitational – 1st Place
2021:
Denny’s Super 30 – August | 1st Place
2022:
Tonka Classic – June | 1st Place
Denny’s Super 30 – June | 1st Place
2023:
BassMaster Open (Co-Angler) Toledo Bend – April | 2nd Place
-What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
If you have a passion for fishing the best advice I can give any angler is to try and be consistent on the water. Time is key when trying to become the best angler. The biggest learning curve I’m experiencing is being in the back of the boat. Get in the boat with many anglers as you can. Keep adjusting. Keep the fishing around in your community, and take the kids out!
I’d like to give a shout out to my family and girlfriend for always being there to support me
Lee Kramer
In today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight we have Lee Kramer. Thank you Lee for taking some time to answer some questions.
-How old are you?
34 years old
-What’s your occupation?
Team Lead at Aagard in Alexandria MN
-Where do you live?
Hoffman MN
-How did you first get into bass fishing?
I grew up racing stock cars. In 2015 I decided to step away from
The sport but I needed something to fill my competitive needs. I joined a walleye League on Big Stone for a couple Years, but that still was not enough fast pace to fill My cup. A friend of mine told
Me to join a league he was in that had bass and I was hooked. I don’t think a month has gone by without buying something for bass fishing.
-What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I currently fish the Big Chip Tuesday Bass League. Also will be competing for the 1st annual Elk Cup this summer. I fished the 1st annual Battle of the Bass heads and will make an attempt to get back on the list again this year. Tony you might be onto something with the Battle of the Bassheads on Boji. Iowa could use a heavy dose of Minnesotas best.
-What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Like most I love tossing around a Jig or bladed jig, but there is something to be said about a biggun blowing up on a frog.
-What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Someday when the kids are grown I’ll own a glass bass boat but until then I’ll ride my 2012 Crestliner Fish-hawk.
-What is your personal best largemouth?
Large 4.85
-What is your personal best smallmouth?
Small mouth 4.5
-What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Pacemaker Jigs, Big Bite Baits, Strike King, Shimano, Daiwa, Kraemer Custom Rods
-Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Outside of winning a few nights in some leagues I don’t have a BIG accomplishment.
-What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I am a very lucky man who got to marry a beautiful woman (Sam) who Loves to fish and encourages me to be a better angler. I currently have 1 son Ellis and son #2 is due June 1st so we will have our hands full early spring. I am a man of God and truly enjoy the fellowship on the water with other anglers. Thanks for having me Tony.
#Colossians3:17
Cory Hauk
We are back with another round of the BassHeads Angler Spotlight! Today we have Cory Hauk in the spotlight. This guy can catch em from rivers to lakes!
How old are you?
42
What’s your occupation?
Contractor
Where do you live?
River Falls, WI
How did you first get into bass fishing?
I grew up trout fishing. After high school, my buddy Andy Bylander dragged me into it. I guess it stuck from there.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
MNBN Team Trail, UMBCS, St. Jude Bass Classic, Wisconsin Bass Nation.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Whatever they are biting, but I love a topwater bite.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2019 Skeeter ZX 225
What is your personal best largemouth?
9.34
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6.5 ish
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Big fan of Shimano, Bagley, Seaguar and Eagle Claw
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Winning St. St. Jude Heroes
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I encourage everybody to consider getting involved with the Dick Hiley St. Jude Bass Classic. It’s a great tournament with an even better cause as the benefactor.
Joey Marquardt
How old are you?
16
Where do you live?
Alexandria
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My dad sparked the interest, he loved fishing walleyes, but my neighbor who is big into bass fishing brought me out when I was 12, hooked ever since.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I fish Tuesday night bass, Glacial lakes bass masters, 20/20, and I like to find some different weekend tournaments here and there aswell.
What techniques are your favorite to catch bass?
I love to punch heavy cane reed, or milfoil, I love skipping docks also.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Old faithful smokercraft! Currently looking for a new to me bass boat though.
What is your personal best largemouth?
5.45 Minnesota
What is your personal best smallmouth?
4.98 Lake Miltona
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
All Terrain, JB3, Omnia, Huk
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I have had a successful year so far, leauge nights wise, I also placed in the IP lures tournament out of my smaller boat last week.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Just 16 so no kids, hopefully not for awhile haha! Just like staying in with the great sport of bass fishing!
Andy Nitchals
In today’s BassHeads angler spotlight, we have a dude that most people recognize and is one of the nicest guys out there! Mr. Andy Nitchals is in the spotlight! This guy lives for bass fishing and just always seems to enjoy his time out on the water. Thanks for answering some questions, Andy.
How old are you?
45
Where do you live?
Willmar
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My dad was a walleye fisherman but I didn’t like it. When we were in Colorado visiting my grandparents we tried trout fishing and at a fly shop I saw a video about flies for pike. I knew MN had lots of pike so we tried that for awhile and that lead into bass fishing
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
West Central Bassmasters and I also fish the MNBN Team Trail and Champions Tour
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Whatever they are biting is the cliche but it’s true. But really if I could flip foil I’d be a happy man
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2023 Skeeter ZXR20
What is your personal best largemouth?
7.94 lbs in MN 13.09 lbs in FL
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6.00 lbs from Mille Lacs
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Daiwa Blackfish All Terrain Outkast Arsenal Yamamoto Berkley Rapala Omnia
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I have a couple big wins in the course of my tournament career as well as many smaller ones. The NABC on Vermilion a few years ago and two years ago on Gull for the Team Trail. I guess I’m kinda know for consistency though. Where ever the circuits take us I feel like I can figure something out so at the end of the year I never miss a championship event
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I’m just a bass geek so never really got around to a wife or kids lol. I have many other interests but bass fishing is always number 1!!
Andrew Fluharty
In today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight we have Mr. Andrew Fluharty. A local metro angler that loves to share is knowledge and passion with the group which is always appreciated! Thanks for answering some questions, Andrew.
How old are you?
35
What’s your occupation?
College professor
Where do you live?
About 5 miles west of Hastings
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My dad is a tournament angler so I was into it at a young age growing up in West Virginia. Though the fishing is terrible there (Pittsburgh Classic results were my life), we did well and I feel like I was well on my way to success until I figured out that being gone every weekend wasn’t compatible with the other stuff I wanted to be doing in college. I got back into it after moving to MN and have been serious about it for the last 7 or 8 years. It took me several years to basically start over learning new techniques and completely different fishing, but it’s started coming together.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I try to limit it while my son is young, so basically only fish competitively in a small individual format league, the ABC (Another Bass Club) Individual Series and occasionally jump into other tournaments.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Drop shot, flipping milfoil, jerkbait
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Just picked up a new-to-me Skeeter ZX225 after running a Ranger 481vs for the last 7 years. The Ranger will be up for sale and comes with some pretty good mojo I haven’t managed to transfer to the new rig yet if anyone is interested!
What is your personal best largemouth?
5.94, two separate times. Once on an East Metro lake, and once this past January on Headwaters Lake in FL.
What is your personal best smallmouth?
5.6X, Mille Lacs
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Daiwa, Phenix, Sunline, Gamakatsu, Z-Man
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I’ve won a fair amount of club level events and things like that, but I’m probably most proud of introducing the sport to a lot of people who wouldn’t get it otherwise. I suppose I’m a teacher at heart. Seeing my son start to catch the bug is probably the best of them all!
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I’ve been married to my wife, April, for 8 years, and we have one son, Archer, who’s 6. Thankfully they’re both supportive of this addiction!
Derek Fenton
Today in the BassHeads Angler Spotlight we have Mr. Derek Fenton. I don’t know Derek well but based on this dude’s posts and pictures, he likes to hog hunt! Thanks for answering some questions, Derek!
How old are you?
27
What’s your occupation?
Commercial Insurance at Federated Insurance
Where do you live?
Mankato
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My dad would take me when I was younger then got addicted with my buddy Myles towards the end of college.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
S.C. Minnesota Bass Tour
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Flipping a jig and throwing a Jack Hammer
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
OldTown Sportsman 120 Autopilot
What is your personal best largemouth?
9.26 (Iowa)
What is your personal best smallmouth?
7.03
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Loomis, Lews, 6th Sense and Outkast Tackle
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Other then doing alright in a few league nights nothing to to brag about.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Not married but currently have a girlfriend who is super understand and basically lets me fish when ever I want. Which like all of you is always. Tight lines!
Easton Fothergill
We are starting off with a good one too. Most have heard the name and have seen what this young man can do! One of the top young anglers in the Nation and a guy that punched his ticket to the Bassmaster Classic! Today we have Easton Fothergill in the spotlight. Thank you for taking the time to fill out some questions.
How old are you?
21
What’s your occupation?
Currently a Student at University of Montevallo in Montevallo, Alabama
Where do you live?
I am from Grand Rapids, Minnesota
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My Dad got me into fishing at a very young age. Started fishing tournaments with him when I was about 5.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
MNBN Team Trail, University of Montevallo Fishing Team
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Any type of swimbait, Jig, neko, spook.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2011 Ranger Z520.
What is your personal best largemouth?
7.39lbs from Guntersville
What is your personal best smallmouth?
Just over 7lbs from Sturgeon Bay
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Strike King, Lews, Simms
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Biggest accomplishment so far is definitely qualifying for the Bassmaster Classic.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Along with fishing I also love bow hunting and Turkey hunting. I am a die hard MN Vikings and Timberwolves fan, as hard as that has been the last few years.
Any high school kid who may see this and wants to possibly fish for a college on scholarship, be sure to reach out to me! I am more than willing to help you get in touch with the right people. Being able to travel the country on the schools dime has been an unbelievable experience so I encourage any high school angler to definitely look into college fishing.
John Hewitt
In today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight, we have an OG hammer! Mr. John Hewitt. I’ve met John a few times on the lakes in the NE Metro. Great guy and dude can catch em! Thanks for answering some questions John.
How old are you?
Damn near 67
What’s your occupation?
Retired Roseville Firefighter
Retired Farmers Insurance after 38 years as an Agency Owner.
Presently working at Joe’s Sporting Goods in the fishing department.
Where do you live?
Roseville Minnesota
How did you first get into bass fishing?
I’ve always fished for bass but really concentrated on them the past 30 years after kicking the musky addiction and moving from a tin Lund Pro V to a plastic Ranger.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I do not belong to any club.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
My favorite technique is a jig worm/ ned rig.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
I presently run a Ranger 522vx
What is your personal best largemouth?
Personal best Largie is 7.1
What is your personal best smallmouth?
Personal best Brown bass is 5.95.
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Favorite brands are Shimano and Daiwa reels. I’ve had a long relationship I’ve had with Gregg and Paul Thorne and now with 2 Brothers Inovations and Elliott, they make excellent rods. Zman makes excellent products as does Outcast tackle, Rapala, Norsk lithium and Humminbird.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I’ve fished alot of Dennys tournaments and done ok, won a few, lost way more than I can count.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I guess my biggest accomplishments are my two kids who have grown into great people. The other thing Im truly proud and great full for is the opportunity Joe’s has given me. I’ve learned so much from so many great anglers over the past 60 years of fishing and now I get to pass those years of knowledge on to others.
Charlie Peterson
Today we have one our Up-North hammers! Mr. Charlie Peterson is in the spotlight today. Thanks for answering some questions, Charlie!
How old are you?
25
What’s your occupation?
Marketing Manager at Northland Fishing Tackle
Where do you live?
Bemidji, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Really ever since I can remember fishing has been a huge part of my life. My family has a strong passion for fishing and my dad Craig Peterson and grandpa Duane Peterson put a flippin’ stick in my hand at a young age!
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)? Northwoods Bait & Tackle runs a weeknight bass league, which definitely makes Wednesday the best day of the week. I also fished in the Edak Bass Club the last two years which has been lots of fun. Ryan Haarsager does a great job!
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
I prefer Froggin Heavy Cover or Flippin Coontail, but my favorite is whatever is gettin’ bit!
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Grandpa’s “Warhorse” 2010 Ranger Z520
What is your personal best largemouth?
5.93 lbs
What is your personal best smallmouth?
4.94 lbs
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Northland Tackle, Bagley Baits, Elliott Fishing Rods
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
My personal favorite was winning Team of the Year for the Bemidji State Fishing Team with my cousin Jace in 2019.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Hope to get to know more of you! I’ve made some great friends through bass fishing, shoutout Saba, Sweets, Tits & the boys!
Keep your eyes out for more exciting things coming from Northland for Bassheads(& sooner rather than later)
Dane Vocelka
Today in the BassHeads Angler spotlight, we have a local metro BassHead that is kind of a jack of all trades. This dude can tattoo, make kick ass rods, and is a hammer on the water! Mr. Dane Christopher Vocelka is in the spotlight today. Thanks for answering some questions about yourself!
How old are you?
I am 33 years old
What’s your occupation?
Work as a full-time Tattoo Artist and Custom Rod builder
Where do you live?
I have lived in Waverley for the past couple years
How did you first get into bass fishing?
I first got into bass fishing with my step-Dad when I was five years old
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I don’t belong to any clubs but my first bass club was in Duluth. As far as tournaments go, I finish the Champions Tour and Minnesota team trail
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
I love fishing finesse baits but I’ve recently developed a passion for moving/power fishing
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
I currently on a VX 20 from Vexus
What is your personal best largemouth?
6.25lbs
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6.25lbs
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
On my Vocelka Customs, I usually throw lews and Shimano. I’m a die hard fan of the Bagley crank baits as of late and love our All terrain tackle terminal
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I have won the blackfish, classic and multiple Minnesota team trail events. I also have done well in the NABC circuit and took a W on Mille Lacs back in 2018
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
My family and I continue to grow our businesses and are excited to share that we have expanded our companies into a “mobile” realm where we’ll be traveling with the trails with rod building/repairing equipment and tattoo gear out of our new RV
Jim Merthan
Another OG is in the BassHeads Angler Spotlight today. Jim Merthan is in today’s spotlight. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Jim a few times and it’s been a pleasure each time. And this guy can catch em good! Thanks for sharing some info with the group, Jim!
How old are you?
72
What’s your occupation?
Retired Manufacturers Rep
Where do you live?
Woodbury, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Always fished and thought tournament’s would be fun
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
No Club now – but started out with the MTKA Bass Club
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Whatever works – like to be versatile
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Z521 Ranger from Frankies and Mercury 250ProXS 4 Stroke – Mercury Pro Team
What is your personal best largemouth?
6-1 from MTKA
What is your personal best smallmouth?
5.75 from Rainy
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Northland Tackle, Bagley, Lews, Lowrance
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Won a lot of tournaments over 40 years but highlight wins would be BASS State Tournament on Gull, BASS Northern Regional on Lewis and Clark in SD, a couple wins in the MN Pro Ams on Leech and Rainy. Won the first ever Great Lakes Division tournament on Lake Wisconsin.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc
I have a patient and understanding wife with my bass fishing addiction. 3 kids and 5 grandkids.
John Morales
Back with some more BassHeads Spotlights. Today we have John Morales in the spotlight. Have met John a couple of times, great dude! Guy just loves to fish!
How old are you?
41
What’s your occupation?
I TRY to own and operate a painting business.
I am also CBT coordinator & Deicer for a deicing company at MSP INT’L
Where do you live?
Mound, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
When I was 4, I got hooked watching my dad bobber fish with leeches in less than 2 f.o.w alllll summer.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I fish as a Co-angler. I was a part of a great fishing club, Lunkersquad for the last 4 or so years but recently joined Bass Seekers.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Deep/shallow water vegetation flippin a 3/8-5/8oz creature/craw and sight fishing in the spring seem to be my strengths and newest favorite but I always have that senko ready to go.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
I have my grandpa’s 1980 Mirrocraft Deep v with a 8hp, she is redone and has a great “bass boatlike” setup. Looking to be a part of the bassboat family VERY soon.
What is your personal best largemouth?
7.24
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6.46
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Daiwa, Dobyns, VMC, Bizz Baits, Arsenal Customs, etc..
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Won the Viking Invitational a few years back. Won Angler of the year in club, Won a couple club t.o.c’s, BB here n there and took 6th in State this past year and qualified for the Bassmasters National tournament down on Grand lake, OK.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I have 2 children, one almost 18 and my son is 21. My lovely wife, Andrea, who says hi to you all, travels with me to almost every derby I compete in. She is very understanding and patient when it comes to this sport. She LETS me fish, ha. She says some day we will travel the country doing this, I sure hope she’s right.
BTW, We all fish bc we all have had something that triggered us. Whether if it was that first tap, watching that bobber twitch, or watching the frog get busted up on and the fight that follows.. there was one thing I’m sure that made us all want to repeat that, it’s why we fish. Well, for me, it is to have fun and to enjoy each moment you get on the water. I think a lot of us forget to do that when we are out there in a derb, pre-fishing, etc.. I had a small period where I fell victim to forgetting that. Remember, we all had fun when we first started and that kept us going. Don’t forget to have fun. It’s what it is all about… winning 
is fun, too!!
is fun, too!!Doug Stahly
In today’s spotlight we have a local Metro hammer, Doug Stahly! He can catch them with the best of em! Thanks for taking some time to answer a few questions for us.
How old are you?
59 years old
What’s your occupation?
General Manager, Fishing Buyer at Joe’s Sporting Goods. I have worked at Joe’s for 40 years.
Where do you live?
St Paul Mn
How did you first get into bass fishing?
With my Father taking trips to the Boundary Waters and Canada.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Denny’s Super 30, Bob’s Wednesday Bassin’
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Jig Worm
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Ranger 521 with a Merc Pro XS 250hp
What is your personal best largemouth?
Largemouth 6.2
What is your personal best smallmouth?
Smallmouth 6.8
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
St Croix, Daiwa, Shimano, Z-Man, Berkley
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Making the top ten boat parade in my first Canadian Bass Championship, 2nd place and Big Bass in the last two J4’s, and many angler of the year club awards over the last 30 years.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Married 30 years to my wife Hope who puts up with all of my crazy fishing adventures. Daughter Emily and Son in Law Zac.
Jason Leight
In today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight we have Mr. Jason Leight. I’ve been able to share the boat with Jason and the guy is just an all around good dude and he can catch some bigguns! Thanks for participating, Jason!
How old are you?
I am 48
What’s your occupation?
Mortgage lender
Where do you live?
Born and raised New Brighton
How did you first get into bass fishing?
I got hooked on bass fishing at age 5 when I caught a 6 pounder out of my uncles pond in Florida.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I currently fish the Annandale Bass league nothing too serious. Prior , use to fish the Super Denny s and Thursday nighters on Minnetonka.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Flipping and pitching jigs
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
I own a jet boat for river smallies
What is your personal best largemouth?
Biggest LM 7.25 MN 8.5 FL
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6.2
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Strike King
Rapala
Supreme slugs
Yamamoto
Whopper ploppers are all my favorite brands along with the Shimano and GLoomis
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Alexandria invitational chain of lakes 2nd place
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Married, 4 children 3 here and 1 in heaven
Chase Hull
We are back with another round of BassHeads Angler Spotlight! We are starting off strong with an absolute hammer and someone I call a good friend, Mr. Chase Hull! Winner of 2 of the 4 Battle of the BassHeads Tournaments and known to catch a few on Tonka Also one of the niceset guys you will meet in the BassHeads community. Thanks for participating, Chase!
Also one of the niceset guys you will meet in the BassHeads community. Thanks for participating, Chase!
How old are you?
41
What’s your occupation?
I’ve been doing a little bit of guiding on Lake Minnetonka but primarily a stay at home dad for the last few years.
Where do you live?
Deephaven
How did you first get into bass fishing?
I was lucky enough have a father who introduced me to the outdoors at a young age. Some of my earliest memories are fishing with my dad. All it took was one topwater blowup and I’ve been hooked ever since.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Denny’s Super 30 and champions tour.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
In my opinion, there is nothing better than feeling the thump when a bass hits your jig. But I also grew up with a Devils Horse tied on at all times so topwater always has a special place for me.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2022 Phoenix 21PHX
What is your personal best largemouth?
7-3 MN and 8-14 MX
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6-10
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
G-loomis, Shimano, Daiwa, Outkast, Megabass, Swagger, BKK, Sieberts Outdoors, Strike King.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I was fortunate to win the Battle of the Bassheads tournaments in 2020 and 2022.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I have been married to my wonderful wife, Andrea, for eleven years now and we have two beautiful children. I have met some great people within this community so if you see me on the water or at a boat ramp, don’t hesitate to say hello!
Joel Willert
In today’s BassHeads spotlight we have one of the most talented bass anglers in the state of MN. Joel Willert is in the spotlight today. I have heard from so many people that Joel just has the “IT” factor when it comes to bass fishing. He’s traveled the country competing against some of the best in the business. Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions about yourself, Joel!
How old are you?
40
What’s your occupation?
Hard water Season: Currently working for Deep Dive Technologies. Founders of the Deep Dive Fishing App.
Open water Season: Guiding on Mille Lacs Lake and fishing local/regional tournaments
Where do you live?
Mora, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Growing up I spent all of my free time riding my bike to local lakes around my hometown in NE Wisconsin and fishing from shore. Watching shiny bass boats rip around the lake always piqued my interest and made me realize I wouldn’t be able to live without one.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Champions Tour
MN Bass Nation Tram Trail
What are your favorite techniques for catching bass?
One of my favorite ways to catch them is punching a big weight through a mat, but being offshore and using my electronics to hunt them up is my comfort zone.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2024 Phoenix 21 XE
What is your personal best largemouth?
MN- 7.23 lbs
What is your personal best smallmouth?
MN- 6.83 lbs
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Striker, Shimano, G Loomis, Power Pro, Humminbird, Minn Kota, Phoenix Boats, Mercury,
PROcise Outdoors
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I have been fortunate enough to be able to travel around the country and fish at a National Level for 4+ years with some success. Being able to see so many diverse fisheries and making friendships and memories that will last forever is special in itself.
*2023 Champions Tour Win at Big Stone
*2023 MN Bass Nation Team Trail- Team of the Year and National Championship qualifier
*Bassmaster Open Top Ten- Cherokee Lake
*NPFL Top tens- Pickwick Lake & Harris Chain
*2019 Forrest Wood Cup qualifier
*2x St Jude Bass Classic winner
*Bassmaster Open co-angler Champion- Oneida Lake
*2x FLW co-angler Champion- Lake Cumberland & Lewis Smith Lake
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc
I have a wonderful girlfriend that supports my addiction to bass fishing and also enjoys catching them herself. I was fortunate to have her travel around the country with me for a few years while I was fishing National tournaments and see what it’s like to live on the road for months at a time.
Over the past couple years, I have always made a point after each day of fishing (tournament, fun fishing, guide trip, etc) to reflect on each day of fishing and gather my thoughts of what I learned that day. This game is an endless puzzle and trying to trick a living creature in its own natural habitat to bite a hook with a piece of plastic is not always easy. The more you continue to learn and understand how to execute in different situations, the better success you will have.
Ryan Haarsager
In today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight, we have a ND angler that likes to sneak into MN and steal a bunch of our money! Mr. Ryan Haarsager is in the spotlight today! An all around great dude and an amazing angler. Ryan and his fishing partner Corey have finished in the top 10 in all 4 of the BassHeads derbies. I have a feeling they will have belts around their waists one of these years. Thanks for participating, Ryan!
How old are you?
Passed my prime 
46
46What’s your occupation?
Dental Laboratory Manager
What do you live?
West Fargo, ND
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My dad got me into fishing but being a Basshead happened naturally. I never liked drowning live bait or trolling for hours. So Dad got me a 12ft tinner and let me do my own thing. Spent all my time in the shallow back bays and instantly fell in love with Bass.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
EDAK Bass Club, North Star
What are your favorite techniques for catching bass?
Heavy flipping setup and bury me in the nastiest, thickest vegetation you can find
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2009 Nitro 929 CDX
What is your personal best largemouth?
7.48lbs, ND
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6.10lbs, ND
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Northland, Berkley, Daiwa, Quantum, Roboworm, VMC
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
No accomplishments as an angler. I suck.
Creating and developing EDAK Bass Club. Bringing together a group of people who share the same passion is the most powerful thing in the world. The best friendships I have made in my life is because of fishing.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc
Married to my beautiful and patient wife, Dana. Raised 3 amazing daughters and now have 3 wonderful grandchildren.
Take a kid bass fishing. Keep this sport going strong.
Clayton Martens
Back with another round of the BassHeads Angler Spotlight! In today’s spotlight we have a young gun BassHead, Clayton Martens! You can tell this dude has the bug just like the rest of us bass addicts! Thanks for answering some questions, Clayton!
How old are you?
20
What’s your occupation?
Construction
Where do you live?
The big city of Long prairie
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My dad took me mainly walleye fishing up until I was 6 then he took me out on the lake me live on and he thought me how to skip and flip the trees and I was instantly hooked goin out literally every day in the ol paddle boat
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)? None yet just do a few derbys here and there and fish a local Tuesday and Wednesday nighter
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
My favorite way to catch a bass is with a drop shot or Texas rig. Or open water deep top water smallmouth
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
I have a 2004 ranger 521vx
What is your personal best largemouth?
My pb largemouth is 5.75
What is your personal best smallmouth?
My pb smallmouth is 5.5
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Daiwa, lowrance, strike king, zoom, any brand that had a sale on tungsten weights
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Nothing yet but hopefully that will change in the next few years as I’m hoping to do a few more bigger derby’s.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I’m not married yet but I have a wonderful girlfriend who loves catching a fish as much as I do. I would love to start up a guiding business one day to so if ya guys wanna get in any hard water panfish this year hit me up, Ik a few spots!
Chad Keller
In today’s BassHeads angler spotlight we have another MN Hammer, Mr. Chad Keller! This dude can flat out just catch em! Thanks for answering some questions, Chad!
How old are you?
41 going on 60
What’s your occupation?
Fishing Guide @ MNproteam guide service/Insulation Contractor MN Insulation Specialists/Snow Plowing/Poker
Where do you live?
STC MN born and raised. Within a hour of many great fisheries!
How did you first get into bass fishing?
On both sides of my family both my grandfathers and most uncles/cousins and my dad were big in fishing and got me started catching panfish. When I was around 10 my parents bought a cabin up north on a small lake with lots of pads and bass in it. From then on I was hooked on bass. They would have to force me to come in for dinner.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)? Started with mid-state fishing league in the 90s where my cousin got me involved. It was a multi species league. Then went to strictly bass with the Granite City Bassmasters. Doug Pietrzak got me involved with them back in early 2000s. A lot of great anglers fish it that I’ve had the pleasure to compete against and learn from. Hatten,Haag,Gross,Teal,Martin, Bridge, Raetz, Sindt….to name a few.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Most know I absolutely Love fishing a Jig! I also love fishing a frog! That being said I really like catching bass so whatever they will bite….I take pride in being versatile and being able to pickup new tactics quickly!
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
I currently run a 620 Ranger Fisherman. It’s the perfect guide/tournament boat for me. My first boat was a 12′ Lund and I used to oar across the lake and use a 12v rear mount trolling motor to fish my way back because the battery would die otherwise on my way across the lake.
What is your personal best largemouth?
I caught a MN largemouth about 10 years ago from shore on a jig in November that was pushing 8lbs was a epic and memorable catch.
What is your personal best smallmouth?
Caught a 7-15 on drop shot on Lake Erie in practice for a TBF regional event.
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
All-Terrain, Arsenal, Rapala, Waypoint, Vocelka customs, aqua-vu, Dude Hair, RLVNT, Minnkota/Hummingbird
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Winning a Dennys Tonka with my buddy Luke last year was a big one for me. Also winning a NABC with Connor O on Leech. AOY in club, AOY mid-state fishing league and runner up AOY champs tour this year. Also winning my first Big Bass Bonanza with my buddy Greg which was a great competitive circuit years ago. Also cashed in every champs tour event this year probably my best season of tourney fishing to date minus a win….
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Married my high school sweetheart Brianna and have 2 boys Blake-21 and Beau-16 and one girl Avilee-13. Hope to pursue my bass fishing career further as my kids get older and I have more time to travel and chase the dream… Love the MN Bass-heads and the network of anglers in it. Such a great group of guys. Honored to be on the angler spotlight!
Steve Hammerschmidt
The BassHeads Angler Spotlight is on Mr. Steve Hammerschmidt! This dude is a NE metro hammer that I have know for quite a few years and has shared a lot of valuable information with me. A great fisherman and an even better person. Thanks for participating, Steve!
How old are you?
46
What’s your occupation?
Sales/Project Manager JG Hause Construction
Where do you live?
Stillwater, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Connected with a middle school friend whose Dad had a bass boat and took us out almost every weekend.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Bad Bass Boys, Greenhorn Bass Tour
What are your favorite techniques for catching bass?
Texas Rig & Carolina Rig
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Nitro Z19
What is your personal best largemouth?
Largemouth 6.62 Ib – fall fish from Big Carnelian
What is your personal best smallmouth?
Smallmouth 6.44 Ib – fall fish from Mille Lacs
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Missile Baits, Dobyns Rods, Sunline, Battle Baits Jigs
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Not really, won a fair number of club tournaments
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc
Very blessed to have 23+ years together with my wife Erika, (2) awesome sons Nicholas and Stefan who support my love of fishing
Austin Felix
We are back with another round of the BassHeads Angler Spotlight and it’s a good one! Today we have Elite Series angler Austin Felix in the spotlight. In my opinion, one of the most consistent anglers in the Elite Series field. Just an absolute hammer! Thanks for participating, Austin!
How old are you?
39
What’s your occupation?
Pro Angler
Where do you live?
Eden Prairie, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My Father Dennis Felix and his old team partner Mike Mitchner
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Fished Denny’s and the old Extreme series with my old man and the NABC with Willie Pappa along with whatever else I could get into in a given year.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
It used to be flipping Milfoil but so much of it has been killed off I rarely get an opportunity anymore. If I go fishing in my free time at home it’s mostly to Mille Lacs.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
My new Phoenix XE showed up 2 days ago. it’s still at Warner’s currently
What is your personal best largemouth?
9.25, Caught it on video with Ben Milliken. You can watch me boat flip on a giant glide bait on his youtube.
What is your personal best smallmouth?
Don’t remember. caught a hand full over 6.5 but never a legit 7
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Phoenix Boats, Dakota lithium, Airrus rods, Ryugi hooks, Sunline, SonarPros to name a few. they all support me but they also make incredible products i count on daily.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Elite series Champion (Oahe), Elite ROY, FLW northern Toyota AOY, 4X Classic Qualifier, 4X Forest Wood Cup qualifier
Fue Khang
In today’s BassHeads Spotlight we have a local metro BassHead, Fue Khang! Thanks for answering some questions, Fue!!!
How old are you?
33 years old
Where do you live?
Live in north st.paul
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My buddy got me into bass fishing after high school back in 2008
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Currently do not belong in a club or tournament group atm
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
favorite techniques spinnerbait, swimjig, frog, swimbaits
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
I own a 2022 NitroZ20
What is your personal best largemouth?
personal LM 5lbs 15oz
What is your personal best smallmouth?
personal SM 5ibs 12oz
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Megabass, GotM Baits, Yamato, Zman, Shimano, CX Custom Rods, Daiwa
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
My team us took first place at the 2023 Annual J4 Bass Tournament host by Hmong Midwest Teng Outdoors
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I don’t do any other sports than bass fish and as of today it is the only thing I put my mind on to teach and learn new way to be better at it.
Nolan Trierweiler
In today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight, we have one of our younger BassHeads Participating. Nolan Trierweiler is in the Spotlight today! I’ve noticed that this young man is pretty active in the group which is always a great thing to see. Keep learning young man! There is a lot of knowledge in this group and a lot of great anglers that love to share it!
How old are you?
I’m 13
Where do you live?
Sauk Centre
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My dad has fished tournaments my whole life and got me into it when I was little
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Me and my dad fish wensfay night tournaments and some on the weekends
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
My favorite technique is Texas rigs or jigs
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
I have a 1989 tuffy
What is your personal best largemouth?
5.11 largemouth
What is your personal best smallmouth?
Not sure how big of smallmouth
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Daiwa, ranger, strike king
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I play baseball football and I play hockey year round
Chris Shields
We are starting the new week off strong with another ND hammer that likes to jump the boarder Chris Shields is in the Spotlight today! This guy can just flat out catch them and always seems to wrangle up some monsters! Thanks for participating, Chris!
Chris Shields is in the Spotlight today! This guy can just flat out catch them and always seems to wrangle up some monsters! Thanks for participating, Chris!
How old are you? 39
What’s your occupation? Kovash Marine boat sales & service, warranty manager, United States Air Force Veteran- Yokota Air Base Japan Where do you live?
Fargo, ND
How did you first get into bass fishing? I first got into bass fishing when I was about 8 years old. I grew up in a fishing family & my dad would take me every chance we got, and that’s where the addiction started. Every weekend we would go to my grandparents cabin in Grand Rapids, MN on deer lake. I couldn’t get enough of the early mornings and the flat calm lake & the top water blowups
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)? Currently am a member of EDAK bass club & Northstar Bass Club, I fish other various tournaments throughout the year, one of my favorites is the Blackfish Classic!!
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass? My favorite technique is by far anything with a grassmaster or a.t jig, I never want to put it away
What boat (if any) do you currently have? Current boat: 2024 Skeeter FXR20, Yamaha SHO 250
What is your personal best largemouth? 8.01 in the Blackfish Classic
What is your personal best smallmouth? 6lbs 8oz
What are some of your favorite fishing brands? All-terrain tackle, Blackfish Gear, Quantum, Skeeter boats, Yamaha outboards, Minnkota, Bass Boat Technologies
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler? I’ve been very fortunate in my fishing career to make some amazing friends & relationships throughout. I’ve won numerous tournaments, been dead last a handful of times, have quite a few big bass awards but one of my favorite & most memorable is being lucky enough to catch a 8lb’er during the blackfish classic in 2022. A lot of people don’t know the whole story of what happened before landing the giant I named “Karma”, if you see me feel free to ask about it!!
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)? If I’m not on the water, I stay very busy playing other sports like Golf, Softball, Volleyball, Darts, but I have a huge passion for bowling & am a very competitive bowler!!!
Brian Bengtson
Mr. Fish Brian Bengtson is in the BassHeads Angler Spotlight today! A very down to earth dude that just loves to fish and does it well! Thanks for answering some questions, Brian!
How old are you?
38
What’s your occupation?
Boat Sales at In Tune Marine
Where do you live?
Cokato, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My dad had a strong passion for fishing and he shared that passion with me. I grew up going on an annual vacation to Lake Minnewaska where we would stay for two weeks in July. This is where I found my love for fishing- Bass fishing more so. My dad, who today, would have been 74 years old, was a “Walleye” guy. However, what ever I wanted to fish for, he wanted to support. My love and passion for Bass specifically, was fueled by watching TNN outdoors, and my friendship with a childhood friend, Seth Feider who was into it as much as I was. My favorite memory of my dad and fishing was when he would wake me up at 430-5am on a school day, to let me know FLW was on and we would watch it together.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I started the Bassmaster affiliated club, Twin City Bass back around 2010. I wanted to share a club with my buddy’s and we are all fishing together still to this day. I fish the Classic Bass Champions Tour, the St. Jude, the Blackfish, the MN Bass Nation State Tournament, and this year signed up for the Bassmaster Northern Opens. I have been blessed to qualify for some Bass Regionals, which has been an amazing experience to fish outside of our state.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Topwater and Flippin’ heavy cover
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2024 Phoenix 21 XE
What is your personal best largemouth?
7.75 (Flippin’ a Pit Boss) Lake Fork, TX
Idk like 6.3 maybe In MN. Caught a couple 6’s not many.
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6.9 (Keitech swim bait) lucky to have caught it on Sam Sobi’s You Tube channel with Connor
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Seaguar fishing lines, Omnia Fishing Retailer, PowerHouse Lithium, Mercury engines, All Terrain Tackle, Arsenal Fishing, Dane Vocelka Custom Rods, Phoenix, Vexus, and Caymas Boats. Fortunate to get to work with three of the best boats in the world.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I have been lucky enough to have been in the outdoor industry for over 20 years of my life. My biggest accomplishments honestly, have been meeting so many friends within the industry that have led me to new opportunities. I have had a fun time fishing tournaments no doubt. I don’t win many, but like to think I can be consistent. Fished 5 Bassmaster Divisional’s, 1st place Dennys Monday on Tonka, 3rd place at State in 2022, idk those stick out to me I guess that meant a lot. Coolest thing ever was having the privilege of having my ugly mug on a fishing lure package!” So so awesome. I’d like to thank Mr. Mike Dahl for that awesome opportunity.
Thanks again for the opportunity, Tony. You’ve done big things within this group- THANK YOU
I appreciate all of the support and love. Have a great season and I’ll see ya at the lake 
David Skallet
An OG Hammer is in the BassHeads Angler Spotlight today!!! Mr. David Skallet is an absolute hammer that knows how to catch em! I always love these spotlights as I’m not a Minnesota native so it’s great to see some of the history of the guys that have been doing it for a long time. Thanks for answering some questions, David!
How old are you?
62
What’s your occupation?
Chief Building Official
Chief Building Official
Where do you live?
Andover MN
Andover MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Uncle and a buddy.
Uncle and a buddy.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Lucky 7 Bassmaster’s (years ago)
Lucky 7 Bassmaster’s (years ago)
What are your favorite techniques for catching bass?
Primarily a Jig but what ever it takes to get the bite!
Primarily a Jig but what ever it takes to get the bite!
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Skeeter FXR21 with 250 SHO
Skeeter FXR21 with 250 SHO
What is your personal best largemouth?
7lbs
7lbs
What is your personal best smallmouth?
5.75lbs
5.75lbs
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Northland Fishing Tackle, 13 Fishing, Rapala, Humminbird, Minn kota.
Northland Fishing Tackle, 13 Fishing, Rapala, Humminbird, Minn kota.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I’ve been fortunate to win several tournaments over my 35-year career and sponsors have and continue to play a key part of my success, but none as important as the amazing friends and the lifelong relationships made throughout.
I’ve been fortunate to win several tournaments over my 35-year career and sponsors have and continue to play a key part of my success, but none as important as the amazing friends and the lifelong relationships made throughout.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
I have a very supportive and understanding wife that helps fuel my passion for Bass fishing along with my 2 children and 3 grandchildren which are all future bass heads.
I have a very supportive and understanding wife that helps fuel my passion for Bass fishing along with my 2 children and 3 grandchildren which are all future bass heads.
Calvin Kruschke
Today we have a pretty ambitious BassHead in the spotlight. Someone trying to do some big things in the bait making business. Today we have Calvin Kruschke in the spotlight! This guy is also starting to but the hammer down on some bigguns! Thanks for taking the time to answer some questions, Calvin.
How old are you?
23
What’s your occupation?
Marine Electrical Mechanic at Spraungel Performance Marine and own Supreme Lure Co
Where do you live?
Big Lake
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My dad would take me out on the river as a kid to get away from everyday life.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Taylor Spraungel fan club
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
For largemouth it’s hard to beat a weightless Supreme Slugg fishing it in the thickest of cover. For smallmouth I love fishing a nose hooked Lil Slugg like a fluke.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2009 19×3 Triton
What is your personal best largemouth?
5.96
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6.02
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
C3 custom fishing rods. Supreme Lure Co. Spraungel Performance Marine. Shimano. Anything that the Waypoint Angler Supply has.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
I don’t have any awards but my biggest accomplishments are just being able to be in and around the industry, being able to share experiences with great people and having been able to create an amazing circle of great people I can always count on and have around me.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Just super fortunate to be where I’m at and looking forward to what is to come in business (SPM, Supreme, C3, Cabbage Creek) and appreciate everyone that has supported each of the brands!
Zach Piescher
In today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight, we have a young angler that is making a name for himself in the tournament world. Zach Piescher is in the spotlight today. This guy can catch em and he definitely has the bug and drive for the tournament lifestyle! Thanks for participating, Zach!
How old are you?
18
What’s your occupation?
Shop help at Rapid Marine in Ham Lake
Where do you live?
Cambridge MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My dad would always take me trolling for walleye and pike. Eventually I got onto the bass deal. Learning everything either though experiences or YouTube. Our local club got me onto the derby scene pretty quick and it took off from there.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
CI Bluejacket Anglers
I have fished the BASS high school events up until this year. This year I’m looking forward to fish the Champions tour along with the Student Angler Tournament Trail
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Anything less than 10’ mostly flipping, docks, and scoping
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
I’ll be picking up a 2016 Legend V20 over Christmas break.
What is your personal best largemouth?
9lb 9oz
What is your personal best smallmouth?
Probably somewhere in the very low 6 range.
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Gloomis, Shimano, Medlock Jigs, Seagar, Strike King, Missile Baits, Zman
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
-2023 TBF Highschool National Champion
-BASS highschool angler of the year
-SATT 2023 3rd team of the year
What other information would like to share with the BassHead community?
Just love to fish and hoping to make it big. I’m planning on fishing for either Drury or Adrian, indecisive at the moment. I’m excited to get on the college scene and fish Collegiate.
Ryan Kieke
Hope everyone had a great Christmas! We are back with another round of the BassHeads Angler Spotlight. Today we have another young gun in the spotlight, Ryan Kieke! Thanks for answering some questions. Ryan!
How old are you?
20
What’s your occupation?
Student at Alexandria Technical College,
Erkens water conditioning in the summers
Where do you live?
Cold Spring, Mn
Student at Alexandria Technical College,
Erkens water conditioning in the summers
Where do you live?
Cold Spring, Mn
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Like most my dad and grandpa took me fishing when I was younger mostly for walleye and panfish. I Started the ROCORI Highschool fishing team and that’s where my love for bass fishing came about!
Like most my dad and grandpa took me fishing when I was younger mostly for walleye and panfish. I Started the ROCORI Highschool fishing team and that’s where my love for bass fishing came about!
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I fish for the Alexandria Tech fishing team and will be fishing Champs tour this summer.
I fish for the Alexandria Tech fishing team and will be fishing Champs tour this summer.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Dropshot, jigworm, swimjig, jig, and anything topwater!
Dropshot, jigworm, swimjig, jig, and anything topwater!
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Skeeter Zx190c
Skeeter Zx190c
What is your personal best largemouth?
7.42
7.42
What is your personal best smallmouth?
4-15
4-15
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Mossy Creek Custom Rods and Tackle, Super K, seaguar, rapala
Mossy Creek Custom Rods and Tackle, Super K, seaguar, rapala
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Top 8 Team of the year in SATT two years in a row. Placed in the top 40 for the HS national championship on Pickwick.
Started my business Mossy Creek Custom Rods and Tackle.
Top 8 Team of the year in SATT two years in a row. Placed in the top 40 for the HS national championship on Pickwick.
Started my business Mossy Creek Custom Rods and Tackle.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
When I’m not on the water, I spend most of my time building rods, whitetail/waterfowl hunting, ice fishing, playing racquetball, and hockey!
When I’m not on the water, I spend most of my time building rods, whitetail/waterfowl hunting, ice fishing, playing racquetball, and hockey!
Nathan Whiting
Today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight is on a NE Metro hammer! Nathan Whiting is in the spotlight today! This guy is known for being dangerous on Mille Lacs but also crushes everywhere else in the state! From Minnetonka to Big Stone, this guy can catch em! Thanks for answering a few questions, Nathan!
How old are you?
46
What’s your occupation?
Auto Body Painter
Auto Body Painter
Where do you live?
Forest Lake
Forest Lake
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Got into bass fishing when I was 16. Met a friend from Missouri that was into tournament bass fishing. Fished our first tournament together when I was 18
Got into bass fishing when I was 16. Met a friend from Missouri that was into tournament bass fishing. Fished our first tournament together when I was 18
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
First club was team bass back in the late 90s
First club was team bass back in the late 90s
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Love a football jig bite
Love a football jig bite
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Have owned several brands over the years, champion, legend, triton, and now Caymas
Have owned several brands over the years, champion, legend, triton, and now Caymas
What is your personal best largemouth?
I weighed a 7.20 in a Frankies Pro Team. My biggest is just over that but didn’t have a scale at the time
I weighed a 7.20 in a Frankies Pro Team. My biggest is just over that but didn’t have a scale at the time
What is your personal best smallmouth?
Biggest Smallie is 6.14
Biggest Smallie is 6.14
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Some brands I like and use are outkast, rapala, venom lures, lowrance, daiwa
Some brands I like and use are outkast, rapala, venom lures, lowrance, daiwa
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
3 time Frankies Pro Team winner, Champions Tour winner, NABC winner, MLS Wins and TOY, Blackfish Classic Win. Biggest win was boat at Frankies.
3 time Frankies Pro Team winner, Champions Tour winner, NABC winner, MLS Wins and TOY, Blackfish Classic Win. Biggest win was boat at Frankies.
Joey Parsons
Happy New Year BassHeads! We are starting off the New Year with the BassHeads Angler Spotlight on another young angler! Joey Parsons is in the spotlight today! I absolutely love seeing how this sport is growing with our younger generation. Keep it up! Thanks for answering some questions, Joey!
How old are you?
16
What’s your occupation?
Part time shop assistant at Throwback Swimbaits and Cook at Pour Wine Bar
Part time shop assistant at Throwback Swimbaits and Cook at Pour Wine Bar
Where do you live?
Ostego
How did you first get into bass fishing?
First got into bass fishing when my grandpa took me out as a kid down on Parker’s Lake and refound my love for the sport when my fishing partner got me into the Highschool fishing scene
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Just fish BASS Highschool but hoping to fish club this year!,
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
my favorite technique would have to be a jig but also enjoy fishing swimbaits and drop shots heavily
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Not my boat but I typically fish with my cousin in his Phoenix 819 Pro
What is your personal best largemouth?
6.03
What is your personal best smallmouth?
5.67
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
My favorite fishing brands would be Supreme Lure Co. as the slaw and Slugg are unbeatable, Throwback swimbaits, Shimano, and Outkast Tackle
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Not many big accomplishments as an angler but being able to make connections within the sport has been huge for me!
What other information would like to share with the BassHead community?
Not married but have an awesome girlfriend who lets me fish 24/7. Just enjoy being out on the water when I’m not working. Extremely grateful for all the opportunities this sport has opened up for me and excited for the future as I have met many great people through this group!
Nick Schorn
Today’s BassHeads Spotlight is on Mr. Nick Schorn! I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Nick one time and he’s just an all around good dude! This guy loves to chase greens and browns just like the rest of us and seems to be able to catch them pretty darn well! Thanks for taking some time to answering some questions, Nick!
How old are you?
31
What’s your occupation?
Carpenter
Carpenter
Where do you live?
Ham Lake
Ham Lake
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My Uncle Chris used to fish the Silverados and took me out often when I was younger.
My Uncle Chris used to fish the Silverados and took me out often when I was younger.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Lunkersquad the past 4 or 5 years, fishing Team trail and some BBTs this year though.
Lunkersquad the past 4 or 5 years, fishing Team trail and some BBTs this year though.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Froggin and big swim baits
Froggin and big swim baits
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Basscat Pantera III
Basscat Pantera III
What is your personal best largemouth?
7.2lbs
7.2lbs
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6lbs
6lbs
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Dobyns, Daiwa, 6th sense, all terrain tackle, powerhouse lithium.
Dobyns, Daiwa, 6th sense, all terrain tackle, powerhouse lithium.
Big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Cashing a check 4 out of past 5 years at the Table Rock BBT events, winning a Dennys super 30 on Clearwater lake a few years back.
Cashing a check 4 out of past 5 years at the Table Rock BBT events, winning a Dennys super 30 on Clearwater lake a few years back.
What other information would you like to share with the Basshead community (kids, married, etc)?
No kids and currently single. Pretty much just work and take advantage of fishing every chance I get!
No kids and currently single. Pretty much just work and take advantage of fishing every chance I get!
Danny Vue
We are back with another BassHeads Angler Spotlight. Today we have Mr. Danny Vue in the spotlight. This dude is just an all around great angler. Not only bass, this guy chases everything and does it well. I’ve only met Danny in person once but overall, this guy is just a down to earth, really good person and one hell of a fisherman. Thanks for taking some time to answer some questions, Danny!
How old are you?
– not too old and not too young
What’s your occupation?
– Kinda like everyone, working 8 hours daily
– Kinda like everyone, working 8 hours daily
Where do you live?
– Born and raised in Minnesota
– Born and raised in Minnesota
How did you first get into bass fishing?
– middle school years, watch bass master, fishing with families and friends
– middle school years, watch bass master, fishing with families and friends
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
– couple hmong clubs tournaments from canoe, small boat, and big boats
– couple hmong clubs tournaments from canoe, small boat, and big boats
– Minnesota Bass Nation
– Helped fish couple bass tournaments in Minnesota
-any random pick up
What are your favorite techniques for catching bass?
– I don’t have a favorite technique now. Seasons, conditions, and pressures will change, so we have to change
– I don’t have a favorite technique now. Seasons, conditions, and pressures will change, so we have to change
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Canoe, Aluminum Boat, and Bass Tracker
Canoe, Aluminum Boat, and Bass Tracker
What is your personal best largemouth?
-7lbs 4oz
-7lbs 4oz
What is your personal best smallmouth?
-6lbs 11oz
-6lbs 11oz
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
CPT, All-Terrain, BlackfishGears, St.CroixRod
CPT, All-Terrain, BlackfishGears, St.CroixRod
Daiwa, Shimano, Scheels, KVD, PowerTeamLures and etcs….
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
– fished a lot of lakes and rivers
– fished a lot of lakes and rivers
– Getting some sponsors, being part of the prostaff teams, working with awesome prostaff, and some professional ppl. But truly just getting out and fish and get better and catch big bass when it comes down, too. Teaching myself from everything.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Have fun, enjoy, learn, make memories, be nice, be kind, respect, we love what we do! It’s in our culture so we all can be better!
Have fun, enjoy, learn, make memories, be nice, be kind, respect, we love what we do! It’s in our culture so we all can be better!
Brad Leuthner
In today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight, we have an angler that has been traveling the country chasing his dream! Mr. Brad Leuthner is in the spotlight today. This guy can catch them all over the country and can certainly do some damage her in MN! Thanks for participating, Brad!
How old are you?
45
What’s your occupation?
I fish full time at the moment.
I fish full time at the moment.
Where do you live?
I spend a couple months in mn and the a couple months in Kentucky. The rest of the time I’m on the road.
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Got a pretty late start to the bass fishing game. First tournament was a Wednesday night on Tonka I think I was about 16.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Currently, I fish all 9 bassmaster opens and also Champs tour.
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
My favorite technique is throwing a big hair jig ( chicken jig) from outkast. I’m also like glide baiting fishing
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Currently have a 2023 caymas cx21
What is your personal best largemouth?
9.57
What is your personal best smallmouth?
7.75
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
FXR Profish, Rapala, crush city,vmc red line,sufix, Outkast,Bassmanspinnerbaits,Garmin,omnia fishing,Leupold,powertran,Suzuki,Aqua-vu, stray cast.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Two-time classic bass champ
Two top tens in bassmaster opens
5th in all time Dennys money list
Doing Into the great wide opens pod cast on stray cast
Being on the board of S.A.
Teach young kids how to fish
What other information would like to share with the BassHead community?
Not married
Have two kids
Really enjoyed hunting and traveling.
Abbey Rabine
In today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight, we have another lady BassHead! We have Abbey Rabine in the spotlight today! She travels all over the state chasing bass as well as other species. You can tell by her posts, that this lady just loves to fish! Thanks for taking the time to answer some questions. Abbey!
How old are you?
42
What’s your occupation?
Fishing Outreach Liaison spreading the love of education and awareness to underserved communities throughout Minnesota
Fishing Outreach Liaison spreading the love of education and awareness to underserved communities throughout Minnesota
Where do you live?
St. Louis Park
St. Louis Park
How did you first get into bass fishing?
My great friend and first mentor Tom Campbell of Dreamsmasher Swimbaits first introduced himself when he found out that I loved fishing but had no resources or anybody to teach me. I was walking my trailer into the lake, tying up my boat and walking my trailer back out lol! He stepped into my life and taught me how to drive my boat, back the trailer and he’s an avid tournament bass angler and he has taught more and more about fishing!
My great friend and first mentor Tom Campbell of Dreamsmasher Swimbaits first introduced himself when he found out that I loved fishing but had no resources or anybody to teach me. I was walking my trailer into the lake, tying up my boat and walking my trailer back out lol! He stepped into my life and taught me how to drive my boat, back the trailer and he’s an avid tournament bass angler and he has taught more and more about fishing!
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)? Team IFM of Ice Fishing Minnesota
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Top water and skipping docks and crank baits
Top water and skipping docks and crank baits
What is your personal best largemouth?
22 inches
22 inches
What is your personal best smallmouth?
21 3/4inches
21 3/4inches
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Tuned up Custom Rods, Garmin, Simms Fishing, rapala, Northland, clam, SULLIVAN TIP DOWN
Tuned up Custom Rods, Garmin, Simms Fishing, rapala, Northland, clam, SULLIVAN TIP DOWN
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
5 kids and biggest passion is fishing and teaching others my passion.
5 kids and biggest passion is fishing and teaching others my passion.
To always keep learning and discovering new techniques with fishing, always something new to learn and experience!!
Mike Anselmo
We are starting off another round of the spotlight with Mr. Mike Anselmo! I’ve known Mike now for a few years and this guy is just flat out a great dude! Jumped right into helping with the BassHeads when he worked with Striker and Northland! I’ll forever be thankful for his willingness to be apart of this community. Mike recently purchased Untamed Tackle and has a wealth of knowledge about the bass fishing industry in general. The guy is also known to be able to catch a few!
Thanks for taking the time to answer some questions, Mike!
How old are you?
43
What’s your occupation?
Freelance Marketing and Ecommerce work, and Owner of Untamed Tackle.
Freelance Marketing and Ecommerce work, and Owner of Untamed Tackle.
Where do you live?
Hudson WI
Hudson WI
How did you first get into bass fishing?
I grew up on a trout stream in Hudson and I caught every sheepshead on the St Croix River…Twice.
I grew up on a trout stream in Hudson and I caught every sheepshead on the St Croix River…Twice.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Up North Bass Circuit. I don’t tournament fish much these days, but I fish all the time.
Up North Bass Circuit. I don’t tournament fish much these days, but I fish all the time.
What are your favorite techniques for catching bass?
Flipping a jig in grass and its not even close. No better bite in bass fishing. Big rod, heavy line…lay the wood to them.
Flipping a jig in grass and its not even close. No better bite in bass fishing. Big rod, heavy line…lay the wood to them.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
21′ Nitro Z19
21′ Nitro Z19
What is your personal best largemouth?
Not positive on weight, but 21 3/4 inches on Lake Pepin during the St Jude Tournament. It might be recorded somewhere. It was big fish for the event and I still have the plaque.
Not positive on weight, but 21 3/4 inches on Lake Pepin during the St Jude Tournament. It might be recorded somewhere. It was big fish for the event and I still have the plaque.
What is your personal best smallmouth?
Not sure about weight (no scale), but 23 1/2 inches…on Mille Lacs. West side of the lake off a piece of very visible piece structure along 169 that would make you scratch your head.
Not sure about weight (no scale), but 23 1/2 inches…on Mille Lacs. West side of the lake off a piece of very visible piece structure along 169 that would make you scratch your head.
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Garmin…Best customer service in fishing. I’m fond of both Striker and Northland having been the marketing lead at both companies for a period of time. I’m definitely a long-term Rapala fan (Cleanup Craw most recently). Untamed Tackle turned into a job somehow. I always liked the product, and Kyle Welcher and I have always had a good relationship. It fell into my lap and I am happy it did.
Garmin…Best customer service in fishing. I’m fond of both Striker and Northland having been the marketing lead at both companies for a period of time. I’m definitely a long-term Rapala fan (Cleanup Craw most recently). Untamed Tackle turned into a job somehow. I always liked the product, and Kyle Welcher and I have always had a good relationship. It fell into my lap and I am happy it did.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
My biggest accomplishment is just embracing fishing as my more than my hobby and working in the industry. I’ve worked with media outlets, great brands, and a bunch of great people along the way.
My biggest accomplishment is just embracing fishing as my more than my hobby and working in the industry. I’ve worked with media outlets, great brands, and a bunch of great people along the way.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community?
I don’t post much on Bassheads because I never want to come off as self-important, pitchy, or arrogant about the brands I work with and for. I’ve always used other marketing/media vehicles for that. However, I have received significant feedback via Messenger or in private around Untamed Tackle and I appreciate the support from this community so much. It’s a grind of a business. I ship orders all over the country, but it’s super gratifying when I send an order to someone I know or to a name I recognize. Lastly…I grew up fishing the old Silverado, St Jude events, and some old Dennys events in the late 90s and early 2000s.. It’s awesome that most of those hammers are still around and catching them 25 years later.
I don’t post much on Bassheads because I never want to come off as self-important, pitchy, or arrogant about the brands I work with and for. I’ve always used other marketing/media vehicles for that. However, I have received significant feedback via Messenger or in private around Untamed Tackle and I appreciate the support from this community so much. It’s a grind of a business. I ship orders all over the country, but it’s super gratifying when I send an order to someone I know or to a name I recognize. Lastly…I grew up fishing the old Silverado, St Jude events, and some old Dennys events in the late 90s and early 2000s.. It’s awesome that most of those hammers are still around and catching them 25 years later.
Damien Luchterhand
Back with another BassHeads Angler Spotlight. Today we are highlighting one of the most recent winners of the MNBN Team Trail! Damien Luchterhand is in the spotlight today and him and his team mate Hayden Anderson just won the Team Trail event on Gull Lake! I do not know Damien personally, but from what I can tell, this guy can catch em!!! Thanks for answer some questions Damien.
How old are you?
30
What’s your occupation?
I work for Canadian National a railroad company doing track maintenance.
Where do you live?
I grew up in a small central Wisconsin farm town called Neillsville. After college I moved up to the NW Wisconsin area and have settled in Solon Springs the last 4ish years
How did you first get into bass fishing?
I fished with my grandpa and dad as a young kid doing the walleye/panfish thing. Then my cousin got into tournament bass fishing when I was in high school and all I wanted to do was chase bass ever since
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
At this moment I fish the MNBN Team trail and hop into random tournaments around NW Wisconsin
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Being a smallmouth guy if I had to choose one technique it would probably be finesse swimbaiting you can catch fish on it all year round and it can be fished from the top of the column to the bottom. I also like to fish fast and cover water
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2018 skeeter ZX225
What is your personal best largemouth?
6.37 on a Chatterbait
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6.67 finesse swimbait
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Northland they’ve really come on strong on the bass fishing side
Alpha Angler great rods at a great price point
Spraungel Performance Marine these guys are always answering questions and keeping my electronics dialed
Shimano, Sunline, Simms, Blackfish
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Won a UMBCS tournament on LCO in Hayward, recently won a MNBN Team Trail tournament on Gull Lake, and in 2023 Hayden Anderson and I qualified for nationals through the team trail.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
First off I gotta thank my beautiful girlfriend Anna she is so supportive of this addiction we call bass fishing. I guess something a lot of people may not know is that I use to be an athlete lol wrestling at a high level into college. Once I was done wrestling I replaced the competition with tournament bass fishing and haven’t looked back. Lastly, I do a little guiding on the side “Luchterhand’s Guide Service” if you are in the Hayward, WI area let’s chase some smallmouth!
Dale Schudi
In today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight, we have Mr. Dale Schudi! I have met Dale a couple times and he is just an all around great guy that absolutely loves the sport. Not to mention, the guy can catch some fish! Thanks for participating Dale!
How old are you?
67
What’s your occupation?
Retired
Where do you live?
New Hope
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Started bassfishing 40 years ago from shore
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
Gopher State BassMasters, GreenHorn
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Love throwing jigs and topwater
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
Ranger Comanche
What is your personal best largemouth?
7lbs
What is your personal best smallmouth?
5.10
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Daiwa, Vocelka Fishing and Customs
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Won 3 tournaments this year and AOY
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
Married 37 years with two children and two grandchildren
Married 37 years with two children and two grandchildren
Malachai Her
Malachai Her is in today’s BassHeads Angler Spotlight. This guy is young and can absolutely catch em! Always fun running into him in the NE Metro! Thanks for answering some questions, Malachai!
How old are you?
I’m 19 years old!
What’s your occupation?
I currently work at Cabelas part time and go to school full time.
I currently work at Cabelas part time and go to school full time.
Where do you live?
I live in Brooklyn park
I live in Brooklyn park
How did you first get into bass fishing?
When I was just a little kid my parents never had any babysitters so the only way my dad could ever go fishing or hunting is if he took my with haha. Grew up fishing for crappies and was introduced to bass fishing by my dad when he got his first bass boat back in 07’.
When I was just a little kid my parents never had any babysitters so the only way my dad could ever go fishing or hunting is if he took my with haha. Grew up fishing for crappies and was introduced to bass fishing by my dad when he got his first bass boat back in 07’.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I currently fish with the HmongSota club, great group of guys and open to those who want to learn!
I currently fish with the HmongSota club, great group of guys and open to those who want to learn!
What are your favorite techniques for catching bass?
Most people who have seen my deck will know I love fairy wands and finesse fishing!
Most people who have seen my deck will know I love fairy wands and finesse fishing!
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
I currently have a Phoenix 921 pro-xp
I currently have a Phoenix 921 pro-xp
What is your personal best largemouth?
My personal best Largemouth would be 7.26 in MN
My personal best Largemouth would be 7.26 in MN
What is your personal best smallmouth?
smallmouth being 7.01 in MN!
smallmouth being 7.01 in MN!
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Some of my favorite fishing brands would be Simms for any of my clothing. Cant forget Shimano and Loomis! I also love to use JDM brands like Geecrack, Deps and Jackall.
Some of my favorite fishing brands would be Simms for any of my clothing. Cant forget Shimano and Loomis! I also love to use JDM brands like Geecrack, Deps and Jackall.
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Some of my biggest accomplishments would include fishing the bass nation toc on Leech Lake last fall as the youngest person in the boater field against some of the best hammers in MN. Some others would be winning some elite formatted tournaments against some adults being just a kid haha.
Some of my biggest accomplishments would include fishing the bass nation toc on Leech Lake last fall as the youngest person in the boater field against some of the best hammers in MN. Some others would be winning some elite formatted tournaments against some adults being just a kid haha.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community?
One thing I would share to everyone is to keep your dreams alive and never forget who got you to where you are in life!
One thing I would share to everyone is to keep your dreams alive and never forget who got you to where you are in life!
Alex Ullman
Back with another BassHeads Angler Spotlight. Today we have another young gun in the spotlight. Alex Ullman answered some questions about himself. Last time I saw Alex, he was 100 yards away from me on a lake and him and his brother were putting a hurtin on some big greens! Thanks for participating, Alex!
How old are you?
19
What’s your occupation?
Electrician
Where do you live?
Blaine Minnesota
How did you first get into bass fishing?
We had a family cabin growing up and my dad,brother and I would go out fishing all the time!
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)? Greenhorn hope to get back into MNBNT next year!
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Flippin grass for big bass! Also love a good top water bite!
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2003 ranger 521vx!
What is your personal best largemouth?
Honestly dont remember the exact weight but it was around 5.5 What is your personal best smallmouth?
6.41
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Daiwa Shimano Gloomis Deps Geecrack Big bite Allterrain Blackfish Megabass
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Being able to fish tournaments and all around Minnesota with my brother is always awesome! Fishing local tournaments placing good enough to make tournaments of champions is always a good accomplishment!
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
No kids not married. One day!
Alex Goodsell
Back with another round of the BassHeads Angler Spotlight. Today we have another NE metro angler Alex Goodsell. I’ve ran into Alex a couple times on the lakes now. Super good guy and sure looks and sounds like this guy knows how to catch em. Thanks for answering some questions, Alex!
How old are you?
20
What’s your occupation?
HVAC
HVAC
Where do you live?
Lino Lakes
How did you first get into bass fishing?
I have a cabin just north of Mille lacs lake that my dad has had his whole life. Got started up there fishing off the dock was instantly hooked after that.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I fish the MNBN team trail and a little Tuesday night league near the twin city’s
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Getting in the shallows and chasing big smallmouth with a hair jig also love a good foil bite with a craw tube
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2018 ranger z521c
What is your personal best largemouth?
6.1 on a jerk bait
Lino Lakes
How did you first get into bass fishing?
I have a cabin just north of Mille lacs lake that my dad has had his whole life. Got started up there fishing off the dock was instantly hooked after that.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
I fish the MNBN team trail and a little Tuesday night league near the twin city’s
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Getting in the shallows and chasing big smallmouth with a hair jig also love a good foil bite with a craw tube
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2018 ranger z521c
What is your personal best largemouth?
6.1 on a jerk bait
What is your personal best smallmouth?
6.7 on a drop shot with a baby z-too
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Shimano OutKast Xzone rapala simms
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Getting seriously into tournament fishing and seeing success as I gain more confidence is always a good feeling
What other information would like to share with the BassHead community?
No kids or Girlfriend But a big dream of mine would have to be working full time in the fishing community.
6.7 on a drop shot with a baby z-too
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Shimano OutKast Xzone rapala simms
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Getting seriously into tournament fishing and seeing success as I gain more confidence is always a good feeling
What other information would like to share with the BassHead community?
No kids or Girlfriend But a big dream of mine would have to be working full time in the fishing community.
Dustin and Michelle Cook
Back with another BassHeads Angler Spotlight!!! Today we have a husband and wife duo, Dustin Cook and Michelle Kay! I’ve had the pleasure of meeting them both a couple of times and these two just absolutely love the sport. It’s a lot of fun following these two on FB and seeing them put the smack down on both greens and browns. Thanks for answering some questions Dustin and Michelle!
How old are you?
Dustin: 34
Michelle: 33
What’s your occupation?
Dustin: My brother and I own a small butcher shop called Concord Store and Locker
Michelle: Administrative Assistant at Mayo Clinic Rochester
Where do you live?
Pine Island, MN
Pine Island, MN
How did you first get into bass fishing?
Dustin: I grew up fishing for pike in northern MN. When I was 18 a buddy of mine turned me on to bass fishing and it grew into a passion.
Michelle: I have fished ever since I could walk, I grew up on Mazaska Lake. My Grandpa and Dad threw a baitcaster in my hand before I was even in Middle School.
What club or tournament group do you belong to (if any)?
None
None
What are you favorite techniques for catching bass?
Dustin: Smallies-dropshot or a swimbait
Largies-I like soaking a Supreme Slugg up shallow or a jackhammer.
Michelle: Smallies-Ned rig and drop shot.
Largies-Shallow fishing using a Supreme Slugg and froggin.
What boat (if any) do you currently have?
2022 Lund Pro V bass with a 200 Mercury pro xs. It is such a game changer with two adults and two kids fishing at the same time.
2022 Lund Pro V bass with a 200 Mercury pro xs. It is such a game changer with two adults and two kids fishing at the same time.
What is your personal best largemouth?
Dustin: 7.21 FL
Michelle: 7.75 FL
What is your personal best smallmouth?
Dustin: 5.5 that I’ve put on a scale
Michelle: 5.77
What are some of your favorite fishing brands?
Dustin:
Spraungel Performance Marine
Spraungel Performance Marine
C3 Fishing
Supreme Lure Co
Lucky Fishing Brand
Outkast
Shimano casting reels
Daiwa spinning
Michelle:
Daiwa
Daiwa
C3 Fishing-rods
Lucky Fishing Brand-clothing
Supreme Lure Co.
Outkast
Northland Tackle
6th Sense
Strike King
Any big accomplishments as a bass angler?
Dustin: My brother and I took 2nd in the Dick Hiley St. Jude tournament in 2023. I got the opportunity to boat captain for the first time just a few weeks back for the Schimeks from the Byron Fishing Team on Mille Lacs and they took 1st. And anytime I am able to put someone new on a good bite on the pond feels like an accomplishment to me.
Michelle: I don’t quite have the same track record as Dustin as I’ve only dabbled my toes into a couple tourneys. So for me, my accomplishments have been expanding my knowledge out on Mille Lacs and learning so much about the lake, the fish, what they are hungry for and where they seem to be hiding. Adapting to change. We’ve provided our kids so many humbling and memorable experiences while out fishing that their passion now runs so deep for fishing already.
What other information would you like to share with the BassHead community (kids, married, etc)?
We have two kids, one boy and one girl. We are married and fishing was what brought us together. We recently renewed our vows out on Mille Lacs on our boat! Our family is addicted to catching smallies out on Mille Lacs. We love cheering on the MN and Canadian guys on the Bassmaster Elite series. Despite the “drama” on there, we take the sport for what it is and the love that us and those anglers have for fishing. As Brandon Palaniuk said on stage this last event, we keep doing this for the feeling of getting a bite, the addiction we have for that. The one split second it takes for our finger tips to feel that bite and for it to register in our brains. We live for that!