As the 2018 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Open season kicks off, my mind is racing in many different directions. Getting tackle prepared, making sure my vehicle is in top shape and double-checking I’ve packed everything I need for the weeks to months I will spend on the road and living out of my truck.
This year I will be competing in the Eastern division, making it my fifth year as a competitor in the Opens as a co-angler. I look forward to the new format consisting of four events with the opportunity to qualify for a championship tournament at the end of the season.
I was very blessed with a fortunate season in 2017 and look forward to applying what I learned going into the new year. In 2016, I finished fourth at Lake Champlain in the last Northern Open of the year, giving me momentum leading into the 2017 season as I competed in the Northern and Southern events. At the first 2017 tournament, in the Southern division on the Harris Chain in Florida, I finished 10th. Next, I missed a check at Lake Chickamauga, but managed to fish on Championship Saturday at all three Northern events putting me in first place for the Co-Angler of the Year, along while accomplishing four top 10 finishes out of five consecutive events.
I travel with my good friend and pro Josh Douglas, who has much more Opens experience than myself. I have learned many things from Josh, as he has mentored me over the years. We practice and camp together at each venue we travel to. While I spend each tournament sleeping in my truck, Josh and his wife, Bri, stay in their camper.
I look forward to utilizing what I learned from past years to accomplish new goals in this 2018 season. One of my biggest goals is to qualify for the Championship event at the end of the year and earn another Co-Angler of the Year title. I strive to transfer to the pro side in years to come, but for now I would love for you all to follow along. I will document my journey this year via blog writing, video footage and pictures for each of the Eastern Opens as I continue to learn from the back of the boat.
