Regional to Classic

 

 

USA Bassin members; Tim and Donna Hopkins thought qualifying to go to the Classic, in   Kentucky in 2009 was, the ultimate bass fishing adventure. The challenge of just getting there from Maine, was high on the list. There were many of us that didn’t fare very well fishing big water and high pressured lakes. 

 

The rest of the summer was not much better for this fun loving duo. On the first tournament when we got back, found them with a blown lower unit and a broken foot pedal on the trolling motor, with good fish in the livewell. The next tournament held heavy downpours. The wiper motor on their truck quit on the way to the tournament. 

These two went about fishing with the best possible attitude. They had decided that they were not going to try and go to the 2010 Classic. This spring has brought back their determination.

 

They will be trying to qualify for the Classic in 2011. The road may be long, but the trip along the way is what makes and keeps your friends. I will miss them going to Kentucky with us. These two are the most dependable and fun people I know.

Donna loves a swimbait and Tim loves a jig. Just to let you know, kind of a nice combination don’t you think.

 

USA Bassin combines the best of all the reasons that we go fishing.  There are times I find it very hard to explain what it means to go to the Classic. You can go to all the local tournaments that you care to, and they still won’t add up to the feeling you get when you compete with 250 + boats from across the country. They may not be the Elite of the country, but given the same cir*****stances, you might be surprised. The level of ability is much diversified in this field of teams. The conditions of the day can put some people into the money and take some out.

 

The fact that a team from anywhere can win the event adds greatly to the appeal. The hype, competiveness, and confidence needed to spend the money it takes to travel the 1500 miles, adds to the enjoyment.

 

 Kevin Yeary just emailed and stated that there will be 350 boats at the Classic. 70% of all qualifying teams decided to go. I can tell you that, to me, it shows what kind of people fish USA Bassin and how well that it is run.

 

350 boats should not change your game plan. I gave it a short thought process and it will not change my (attempted) game plan. The outcome of last year keeps me very humble.

 

 I want to wish everybody the best of luck at the Classic and the rest of the year!

 Kevin; Thank You for running such a fine Association!

 

The fish is from the Connecticut River. The New England Regional will be held on the River.

 

Get The Net

Peter Kjenstad

peterkjenstad@yahoo.com