Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops

What the College Classic Bracket did for me

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The Carhartt Bassmaster College Series Classic Bracket is one of the most important tournaments in the eyes of college anglers. It's an event where dreams can come true. Even for the seven anglers that don't win, they acknowledge the opportunities that are in their future because of this experience. Former Classic Bracket winners and two Elite Series pros that fell short in the Bracket tell their story of what this week meant to them.
The Carhartt Bassmaster College Series Classic Bracket is one of the most important tournaments in the eyes of college anglers. It’s an event where dreams can come true. Even for the seven anglers that don’t win, they acknowledge the opportunities that are in their future because of this experience. Former Classic Bracket winners and two Elite Series pros that fell short in the Bracket tell their story of what this week meant to them.
Nick Ratliff (2018 Classic Bracket winner) Winning the College Classic Bracket meant everything to me. I had pretty much set the goal of winning the Bracket when I was coming out of high school. I wanted to make the classic through College Fishing. Watching the bracket years leading up to my win really stung. One National Championship was on my home lake (Green River) my freshman year and the bracket was on Kentucky Lake a place we had a place on growing up. It meant a lot coming full circle and winning on a fishery I didn't expect to.
Nick Ratliff (2018 Classic Bracket winner)
Winning the College Classic Bracket meant everything to me. I had pretty much set the goal of winning the Bracket when I was coming out of high school. I wanted to make the classic through College Fishing. Watching the bracket years leading up to my win really stung. One National Championship was on my home lake (Green River) my freshman year and the bracket was on Kentucky Lake a place we had a place on growing up. It meant a lot coming full circle and winning on a fishery I didn’t expect to.
Winning the College Classic Bracket opened up a ton of doors in the industry for me to keep pursuing my dream. I’ve met some awesome connections both sponsor wise and just throughout the industry that want to see you succeed. I've met some people that have definitely given me advice through the process of fishing the Classic and the Opens as well.
Winning the College Classic Bracket opened up a ton of doors in the industry for me to keep pursuing my dream. I’ve met some awesome connections both sponsor wise and just throughout the industry that want to see you succeed. I’ve met some people that have definitely given me advice through the process of fishing the Classic and the Opens as well.
Competing in the Classic was surreal at the time. It’s sank in now to the point where all I want to do is get back. Throughout the whole week in Knoxville I definitely felt like I’d always get there at some point but to be there at that point in my life was awesome.
Competing in the Classic was surreal at the time. It’s sank in now to the point where all I want to do is get back. Throughout the whole week in Knoxville I definitely felt like I’d always get there at some point but to be there at that point in my life was awesome.
Experiencing a Bassmaster Classic takeoff was incredible the first morning. I had never attended a Classic as a fan so the atmosphere especially with how downtown Knoxville setup. I didn’t think of it much at the time but it was definitely easy to lose myself in the “I can’t believe I’m actually here” with this group of guys kind of feeling.
Experiencing a Bassmaster Classic takeoff was incredible the first morning. I had never attended a Classic as a fan so the atmosphere especially with how downtown Knoxville setup. I didn’t think of it much at the time but it was definitely easy to lose myself in the “I can’t believe I’m actually here” with this group of guys kind of feeling.
Jacob Foutz (2017 College Classic Bracket winner and National Champion) Winning the College Classic Bracket at that point in my life meant the world to me. I think you can see that through my reaction after being announced the winner. Up until that point I had one of the most frustrating seasons I’ve ever had. I was doubting myself and that kind of reassured myself that
Jacob Foutz (2017 College Classic Bracket winner and National Champion)

Winning the College Classic Bracket at that point in my life meant the world to me. I think you can see that through my reaction after being announced the winner. Up until that point I had one of the most frustrating seasons I’ve ever had. I was doubting myself and that kind of reassured myself that “you know what maybe I can do this!”

Winning the Bracket opened a lot of doors for me. It’s allowed me to make connections within the industry and has taught me so much about the industry. It goes much farther than just college fishing. The Opens, Classic and industry folks are great people.
Winning the Bracket opened a lot of doors for me. It’s allowed me to make connections within the industry and has taught me so much about the industry. It goes much farther than just college fishing. The Opens, Classic and industry folks are great people.
When I think about fishing in a Bassmaster Classic I still get choked up. It was surreal. Still hard for me to believe I did it and I still get choked up thinking about. Surreal.
When I think about fishing in a Bassmaster Classic I still get choked up. It was surreal. Still hard for me to believe I did it and I still get choked up thinking about. Surreal.
The thing I remember most was idling out the first morning of the Classic. When you look in front of you and see Edwin Evers and then turn and look behind you and see Mike Iaconelli that’s when it hits you
The thing I remember most was idling out the first morning of the Classic. When you look in front of you and see Edwin Evers and then turn and look behind you and see Mike Iaconelli that’s when it hits you “like man am I really in the Classic?” I’ll also always remember how supportive and encouraging everyone was.
John Garrett (2016 College Classic Bracket winner and 2x-time Bracket competitor) Winning the bracket meant everything to me at the time. The saying “when it’s your time, it’s your time,” I found it to be true. After working so hard and coming so close to winning so many times it meant a lot to get a win. And it felt like all the hard work had lead up to that time. It was really a memory I will never forget. In front of my hometown crowd and on my home lake. It couldn't have been any better. That week seemed to be unreal on how smooth everything including the fishing went.
John Garrett (2016 College Classic Bracket winner and 2x-time Bracket competitor)

Winning the bracket meant everything to me at the time. The saying “when it’s your time, it’s your time,” I found it to be true. After working so hard and coming so close to winning so many times it meant a lot to get a win. And it felt like all the hard work had lead up to that time. It was really a memory I will never forget. In front of my hometown crowd and on my home lake. It couldn’t have been any better. That week seemed to be unreal on how smooth everything including the fishing went.

It has opened many doors for me (relationships with companies, partnerships, and great friends) it gave me confidence to pursue my dream in professional fishing and showed that hard work can pay off.
It has opened many doors for me (relationships with companies, partnerships, and great friends) it gave me confidence to pursue my dream in professional fishing and showed that hard work can pay off.
To say that fishing in a Bassmaster Classic was awesome is an understatement. It is something every angler wants to do is fish in the classic. After I fished it, it definitely “lit the flame” for me to get back as soon as I could. It is something I would love to do multiple times in my life. It made me want to get back and do it again for sure.
To say that fishing in a Bassmaster Classic was awesome is an understatement. It is something every angler wants to do is fish in the classic. After I fished it, it definitely “lit the flame” for me to get back as soon as I could. It is something I would love to do multiple times in my life. It made me want to get back and do it again for sure.
If I had to pick one particular thing that stood out from me at the Classic. It's how all of the anglers that qualified responded. Everyone was extremely happy to be there and “soaking it all in”. All of the pros were thankful they were there just like I was. You could tell everyone there was having an extremely good time and it did not seem as anyone was just “attending there job” everyone was doing something they purely loved and getting rewarded for hard work.
If I had to pick one particular thing that stood out from me at the Classic. It’s how all of the anglers that qualified responded. Everyone was extremely happy to be there and “soaking it all in”. All of the pros were thankful they were there just like I was. You could tell everyone there was having an extremely good time and it did not seem as anyone was just “attending there job” everyone was doing something they purely loved and getting rewarded for hard work.
Trevor Lo (2015 College Classic Bracket winner) Winning the College Classic Bracket meant everything. I knew that it would completely change my life. Qualifying for the Classic was a dream come true. I think that showed through the tears on stage.
Trevor Lo (2015 College Classic Bracket winner)

Winning the College Classic Bracket meant everything. I knew that it would completely change my life. Qualifying for the Classic was a dream come true. I think that showed through the tears on stage.

The biggest thing that winning did was allow me to partner with some of the most reputable companies in the industry. Having “College Bracket Champion” on your resumé is huge. In addition to that, you become a star for a lot of these young aspiring anglers. Being able to make a kid’s day just by taking some time to meet them and chat with them is the greatest thing in the world.
The biggest thing that winning did was allow me to partner with some of the most reputable companies in the industry. Having “College Bracket Champion” on your resumé is huge. In addition to that, you become a star for a lot of these young aspiring anglers. Being able to make a kid’s day just by taking some time to meet them and chat with them is the greatest thing in the world.
It was amazing fishing in the Classic. Being one of the handful of Minnesotans to qualify for the Classic is something I take a lot of pride in. There’s a small list of us, and I’m blessed to be on that list.
It was amazing fishing in the Classic. Being one of the handful of Minnesotans to qualify for the Classic is something I take a lot of pride in. There’s a small list of us, and I’m blessed to be on that list.
Being pulled into a stadium of nearly 20,000 screaming fans leaves you speechless. There’s really nothing quite like it. The stage, lights, sounds; it was amazing. If there another thing that really sticks out, it’s the morning launch on Day 1. KVD is idling by the crowd on the shore and he stands up, throws his fists in the air, and the crowd erupts. I got major chills and looked at my marshal and said, “Yup. That’s Kevin Vandam.”
Being pulled into a stadium of nearly 20,000 screaming fans leaves you speechless. There’s really nothing quite like it. The stage, lights, sounds; it was amazing. If there another thing that really sticks out, it’s the morning launch on Day 1. KVD is idling by the crowd on the shore and he stands up, throws his fists in the air, and the crowd erupts. I got major chills and looked at my marshal and said, “Yup. That’s Kevin Vandam.”
Brett Preuett (2014 College Classic Bracket Champion and Elite Series Pro) When I won the College Classic Bracket it meant everything to me at that point in my life because I had spent countless hours fishing, practicing, always doing whatever I could to get better. There were struggles, triumphs, missed opportunities and everything else you could possibly have happen. Lost fish, boat problems, and a million other things . There were nights and days spent day dreaming what it would be like to fish professionally (when I probably should have been studying or working). The biggest opportunity was right in front of me. I was fishing the very last day on Lake Chatuge with my dreams right in front of my eyes and everything worked out perfect as it was just meant to be like there was nothing I could of did wrong and God wanted me to win. The moment I jumped in the water after winning I just kind of chilled down there under the water for a little longer than you normally would and it came to me that the moment every single thing was worth it and it was one of the greatest moments of my life.
Brett Preuett (2014 College Classic Bracket Champion and Elite Series Pro)

When I won the College Classic Bracket it meant everything to me at that point in my life because I had spent countless hours fishing, practicing, always doing whatever I could to get better. There were struggles, triumphs, missed opportunities and everything else you could possibly have happen. Lost fish, boat problems, and a million other things . There were nights and days spent day dreaming what it would be like to fish professionally (when I probably should have been studying or working). The biggest opportunity was right in front of me. I was fishing the very last day on Lake Chatuge with my dreams right in front of my eyes and everything worked out perfect as it was just meant to be like there was nothing I could of did wrong and God wanted me to win. The moment I jumped in the water after winning I just kind of chilled down there under the water for a little longer than you normally would and it came to me that the moment every single thing was worth it and it was one of the greatest moments of my life.

By winning that tournament it gave me the opportunity to fish the Bassmaster Opens and qualify to fish in the Bassmaster Elites pressure free. I had a great time that season with 3 Top 12s and qualifying in the Central Division. There is no way possible I would have been able to do that without winning that tournament and I am still blessed today to be living the dream fishing on the Elites.
By winning that tournament it gave me the opportunity to fish the Bassmaster Opens and qualify to fish in the Bassmaster Elites pressure free. I had a great time that season with 3 Top 12s and qualifying in the Central Division. There is no way possible I would have been able to do that without winning that tournament and I am still blessed today to be living the dream fishing on the Elites.
Like I said before there use to be times where I would just dream about what it would be like fishing in the Elites and fishing in the Classic, it was just kind of unreal for me I couldn’t believe it when it happened. I couldn’t believe I was right there next to the people I had been watching religiously on TV, reading articles about for years, It felt absolutely awesome.
Like I said before there use to be times where I would just dream about what it would be like fishing in the Elites and fishing in the Classic, it was just kind of unreal for me I couldn’t believe it when it happened. I couldn’t believe I was right there next to the people I had been watching religiously on TV, reading articles about for years, It felt absolutely awesome.
I remember going out there in that stadium and seeing the thousands of people and realizing how awesome it was to be there and how bad I wanted to come back and hold that trophy one day.
I remember going out there in that stadium and seeing the thousands of people and realizing how awesome it was to be there and how bad I wanted to come back and hold that trophy one day.
Jake Whitaker (2-time College Classic Bracket competitor, 2014 National Champion and Elite Series pro) The National Championship was huge for me. It was the biggest tournament and most meaningful tournament I had fished up to that point. It was something that Andrew and I and worked for and for it actually to happen was a very rewarding moment and something that no one will be able to take away from us. Still one of my greatest achievement in fishing and always will be.
Jake Whitaker (2-time College Classic Bracket competitor, 2014 National Champion and Elite Series pro)

The National Championship was huge for me. It was the biggest tournament and most meaningful tournament I had fished up to that point. It was something that Andrew and I and worked for and for it actually to happen was a very rewarding moment and something that no one will be able to take away from us. Still one of my greatest achievement in fishing and always will be.

Competing in the Bracket definitely opened my eyes in a way that made me realize I wanted to pursue professional fishing. Not saying I didn’t want to before the National Championship but it fueled that fire more than ever before. It allowed me to meet people in the industry that I am now around at most tournaments and major fishing events. Definitely a huge stepping stone in my path to the Elites.
Competing in the Bracket definitely opened my eyes in a way that made me realize I wanted to pursue professional fishing. Not saying I didn’t want to before the National Championship but it fueled that fire more than ever before. It allowed me to meet people in the industry that I am now around at most tournaments and major fishing events. Definitely a huge stepping stone in my path to the Elites.
The bracket was a thorn in my side but looking back everything played out the way it was supposed to. The bracket is the biggest opportunity for a college kid to get to experience what it’s like to be a professional angler if you win.
The bracket was a thorn in my side but looking back everything played out the way it was supposed to. The bracket is the biggest opportunity for a college kid to get to experience what it’s like to be a professional angler if you win.
Losing twice in the Bracket in 2 years made me wonder if I would ever get my chance. Losing in this sport is a given. It happens way more than winning so just to make the bracket is a win whether you hold the Classic berth trophy or not. Would I have like to win the bracket, you bet! But would I change the way it worked out for me, absolutely not. Making the Elites through the Opens two years later and then to become 2018 Rookie of the Year meant a lot to me. I had finally broken through a few times.
Losing twice in the Bracket in 2 years made me wonder if I would ever get my chance. Losing in this sport is a given. It happens way more than winning so just to make the bracket is a win whether you hold the Classic berth trophy or not. Would I have like to win the bracket, you bet! But would I change the way it worked out for me, absolutely not. Making the Elites through the Opens two years later and then to become 2018 Rookie of the Year meant a lot to me. I had finally broken through a few times.
I didn't punch my ticket to the Classic through the College Bracket, but making it through the rigorous Elite Series showed me a lot about myself. I was nervous but I think I was more prepared than I would've been if I came straight from the College Bracket. I had a year of fishing against these anglers under my belt and it made me savor the moment a lot.
I didn’t punch my ticket to the Classic through the College Bracket, but making it through the rigorous Elite Series showed me a lot about myself. I was nervous but I think I was more prepared than I would’ve been if I came straight from the College Bracket. I had a year of fishing against these anglers under my belt and it made me savor the moment a lot.
Tyler Rivet (2015 College Classic Bracket competitor and Elite Series Rookie) When we made the cut for the Bracket it was one of the coolest experiences I have ever had in my life. It was almost like you were going pro for a couple days because of all the people watching you from the banks then with cameras around you everywhere and in your boat. It was one of the best experiences i think any college angler can ask for. I think every kid fishing college wants that shot at the Classic and to be only 2 more guys away from winning it was best and worst feeling at the same time. I had made it this far, but lost with just a little left to go.
Tyler Rivet (2015 College Classic Bracket competitor and Elite Series Rookie)

When we made the cut for the Bracket it was one of the coolest experiences I have ever had in my life. It was almost like you were going pro for a couple days because of all the people watching you from the banks then with cameras around you everywhere and in your boat. It was one of the best experiences i think any college angler can ask for. I think every kid fishing college wants that shot at the Classic and to be only 2 more guys away from winning it was best and worst feeling at the same time. I had made it this far, but lost with just a little left to go.

Since then it made me want to get back to that moment every year and try to make that Classic. I knew I had it in me just things kept messing up at least one day in the Championships. We would place high but was always just that one fish out from making it again. So that just got me mad in a different way. I saw how close I was, but how far I needed to come to accomplish my goal.
Since then it made me want to get back to that moment every year and try to make that Classic. I knew I had it in me just things kept messing up at least one day in the Championships. We would place high but was always just that one fish out from making it again. So that just got me mad in a different way. I saw how close I was, but how far I needed to come to accomplish my goal.
So that’s what the Bracket and College Fishing did for me. When qualifying for all the Championships and getting all Top 20's or better it taught me that
So that’s what the Bracket and College Fishing did for me. When qualifying for all the Championships and getting all Top 20’s or better it taught me that “hey maybe I can try competing in the Opens and do pretty decent and maybe make the Elites.” So I started fishing the Opens and actually had success. Then I qualified for the Elites in my second year fishing the Opens. Now I’m living my dream I guess you can say because of that one moment in college that made me realize that this is what I want to do for the rest of my life is to become a Bassmaster.
I'm in contention to make the AOY Championship and possibly the Classic with just two events left on the Elite Series season. Walking across that Classic stage would mean a lot to me. The fire that burns inside was fueled and lit because of the College Series and Bracket.
I’m in contention to make the AOY Championship and possibly the Classic with just two events left on the Elite Series season. Walking across that Classic stage would mean a lot to me. The fire that burns inside was fueled and lit because of the College Series and Bracket.

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