In an exciting turn of events, Garrett Smith and Andrew Blanton of Lander University emerged victorious at the 2024 Strike King Bassmaster College National Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops at Lake Hartwell. With a total weight of 49 pounds over three days, the duo showcased their skills and dedication to the sport.
What set Smith and Blanton apart was their unique strategy of fishing in the Tugaloo River and Seneca River, focusing on shallow waters to target fish feeding on bream. By deviating from the more commonly targeted bass following blueback herring, they were able to secure the win with confidence.
Smith and Blanton’s approach involved using a mix of reaction and finesse baits, with a buzzbait being the primary choice for catching their fish. Their success was attributed to their familiarity with the area and keen eye for identifying key spots where the fish were actively feeding.
The competition was fierce, with Parker Guy and Tyler Campbell of Emmanuel University closely trailing behind in second place. Despite maintaining a run-and-gun strategy that covered a vast area of the lake, Campbell and Guy fell just short of the top spot, showcasing the level of skill and precision required to succeed in such a competitive event.
Rounding out the top three were Lane Clark and Tallis Morrison of Erskine College, who capitalized on their knowledge of the lake’s lower end to target bigger fish and blueback herring populations. Their use of chartreuse and white Zoom Super Flukes and buzzbaits proved effective in securing their placement.
Additionally, Dylan Akins and Chase Carey of Emmanuel University were recognized for their outstanding performance throughout the season, earning the Strike King Bassmaster College Series Team of the Year honors.
Smith and Blanton’s win not only solidified their status as champions but also earned them a spot in the prestigious Bassmaster College Classic Bracket presented by Lew’s, with the chance to compete in the 2025 Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Jockey Outdoors.
Overall, the 2024 Strike King Bassmaster College National Championship was a display of talent, strategy, and determination, showcasing the next generation of anglers poised to make their mark in the world of competitive bass fishing.
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