BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — B.A.S.S. is now accepting nominations for the best and brightest high school bass anglers in the country to complete its 2018 class of distinguished students.
The Bassmaster High School All-American Fishing Team presented by DICK’S Sporting Goods recognizes the 12 best high school anglers in the nation. The program is designed to reward young athletes for their performance in tournaments, leadership in their communities and involvement in conservation efforts.
Applications for the team, which is now in its fourth year, will be accepted today through Feb. 16.
To be considered, a student must be nominated by a parent, coach, teacher or other school official. Students currently enrolled in grades 10 through 12 with a grade-point average of 2.5 or higher are eligible.
Judges will select up to two student anglers in each state. These All-State Fishing Team members will become semifinalists in the selection of the 12-member All-American Team. Criteria include success in high school fishing tournaments and involvement in conservation efforts and other community service activities.
The anglers chosen will compete in a one-day Bassmaster All-American High School Tournament to be held in conjunction with the 2018 Toyota Bassmaster Texas Fest benefiting Texas Parks and Wildlife Department — one of nine regular-season Bassmaster Elite Series tournaments being held this year. Elite Series anglers will serve as coaches for the student anglers in the one-day fishing event on Lake Travis in Jonestown, Texas, where they will be honored before the weigh-in crowd.
“Our High School All-American program has grown exponentially, with almost double the number of applicants since its inception.” said Hank Weldon, senior manager of the Bassmaster High School program. “We are so proud to see all of the accomplishments of young students across the country that do great things for their community and our sport. And, to recognize them with this award is such an honor for B.A.S.S. We can’t wait to see what our 2018 applicants will bring to the table.”
All students who compete in high school fishing events are eligible, regardless of whether they are affiliated with B.A.S.S. or another fishing organization.
Notices have been sent to youth fishing directors of the B.A.S.S. Nation and other organizations, as well as leaders of state high school fishing programs. Adults can nominate students by completing an online form at Bassmaster.com/allamerican. Nominations must be submitted before midnight, Feb. 16.
