2009 Yamaha Pro Tour Official Guide
Yamaha Pro Tour
2009
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SOUTHERN KINGFISH ASSOCIATION 15 Garnett Avenue Saint Augustine, FL 32084 Phone: 904-819-0360 Fax: 904-819-0331 e-mail: sokingfish@fishska.com web: www.Fishska.com
STAFF Managing Partner Jack Holmes Accounting Deona Holmes Magazine Director Graphic Design Christine B. Rodenbaugh
866599-5445
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Membership Director Loreen Berlin
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Webmaster Daniel R. Finley Field Managers Bob Flocken Don Ewing
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www.dubro.com Toll-Free: (877) 776-3474
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Capt. Harry’s
Custom Rod & Reel
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Panama City, FL (850) 234-2621
Destin, FL (850) 837-3121
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The Fishing Center of St. Lucie Ft. Pierce, FL (772) 465-7637
Yamaha Pro Tour
Where There’s
Smokers, There’s Fire. Liquid Fire Fishing Team, that is.
31T Mark Henderson's Liquid Fire Team with their 50.56 lb. smoker caught at Jensen Beach.
With a seven-fish aggregate of 256.17 pounds on the 2008 SKA Yamaha Professional Kingfish Tour, Mark Henderson's Liquid Fire Team relies on its Contender/Yamaha combination to get them to the fish and back to the scales. It’s ready. Whatever you have in mind for this weekend, our 31' Tournament can handle it. The 31' Tournament continues to dominate the offshore scene with aggressive lines that tout an elevated level of confidence.
Below, the whole team celebrates the Angler of the Year title: Misty Waters, Joshua Henderson, Mark Henderson, Chris Waters, Lakota Waters, Rachel Henderson, Sue Henderson, Charles Henderson, Crockett Henderson and Audrey Henderson.
Features include a one piece level deck from bow to stern, twin raised livewells, walkthrough transom, self-bailing cockpit, and a walk-in step down console to name a few. Whether it’s a kingfish tournament off North Carolina or billfish tournament off Miami, this is the boat that can put you in the winner’s circle. Just ask the Top Angler of the Year!
CONTENDER Sportfishing Boats 21 | 23 | 27 | 31 | 33 | 35 | 36 | 38 ~ www.contender.com Yamaha Pro Tour
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To learn more about Yamaha Outboards, or locate the nearest Yamaha Marine Dealer, visit YamahaOutboards.com or call 1-800-88-YAMAHA. REMEMBER to always observe all applicable boating laws. Never drink and drive. Dress properly with a USCG-approved personal floatation device and protective gear. Š2008 Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA. All rights reserved.
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Yamaha Pro Tour
Why is Yamaha your best investment? “No matter where I fish, I know I have the strongest, most reliable outboard there is.”
George Mitchell CAPTAIN GEORGE MITCHELL
Charter Boat Captain & Tournament Fisherman Fabulous Fishing Adventures
For 25 years, Yamaha’s been earning its stripes, out on the big blue behind hardcore fishermen like Captain George Mitchell. Tournament after tournament and win after win, they’ve learned to count on Yamaha Outboards for incredible power, reliability, durability, fuel efficiency and innovation. But there’s much more to a Yamaha—unsurpassed customer service, more than 2,000 dealers nationwide and some of the industry’s most highly trained technicians. Add it all up, and Yamaha’s one of the strongest performers on the water, and perhaps one of best investments you’ll ever make.
Yamaha Pro Tour
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It’s one thing to fish the Mercury Tournament Trail, quite another to commit to the Yamaha Pro Circuit. Most fishermen are content to fish their local Divisions and attain personal gratification by qualifying to go to the National Championship each year and maybe win the title, National Champion. There is an elite group of anglers however, who seek a higher degree of professionalism and status among the fishing fraternity. They choose to turn Pro and fish to become the “Top Angler of the Year,” saltwater fishing’s most coveted title and most challenging to earn. A professional athlete is one that usually derives income from the sport he or she participates in. Our Pros all have careers, families, and community commitments, but fish at this level primarily for the challenge. So what does it take to compete in this arena? First, if you qualify out of a Division to attend the National Championship, you also receive an invitation to
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move into the Pro ranks. Only a few each year accept the challenge. There is a reason for that. First: the challenge—it’s grueling. Pros fish a series of five events, mostly in unfamiliar waters. Each tournament is a two-day event in which each team is allowed to weigh one fish per day. In these individual events
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the highest two-fish aggregate wins the event and the $40,000 top prize. SKA then keeps track of each fish with the team’s best seven counting toward the overall Angler of the Year title. Pay-outs in these tournaments are substantial however so are the costs in fishing these events. Entry fees run $1,000 per event. When you factor in time away from work, traveling expenses, motels, food, and owning the best products the marine industry can build, it’s costly. SKA returns 100% of the entry fee money plus $25,000 per tournament. Then the Angler of the Year will win a Yamaha Outboard motor. Make no mistake, each and every participant has attained a level of fishing success and are capable of winning any event they participate in. Manufacturers have evaluated their successes and rewarded them with limited sponsorships that can range from boat and motor deals to all expenses paid. It continues to get better for this elite group each year. Many Yamaha Pro Tour
of our Pros are now adorned with their sponsors advertising. The freshwater counterpart, the BASS fisherman, certainly has attained a greater degree of success, but let’s look at some similarities. BASS has about 200 Pros, but the majority of them cannot make a living from just fishing. Our Pros total 57 and it’s about the same for them. BASS has over 600,000 members to draw from, and SKA has 10,000. When you analyze the fact there are over 40 million freshwater fishermen opposed to 11 million saltwater and the better part of those fish inshore then the SKA is doing just fine. BASS has been in business for almost 40 years, SKA 19. So there’s really not much difference. The most important thing to remember is that today’s BASS Pros began just like the Yamaha Pro Tour Pros, only many years ago. Today they’re the stars, and very soon our Pros will attain the same status. Some already have! So who are our Pros? Each Pro team is listed in this Pro annual along with some interesting information. They start with number one who was last year’s Top Angler of the Year and go up. Their number is their national ranking or where they finished on the tour last year. The last few numbers are teams that entered the Pro ranks this year. Pro fishermen are demanding. They want the best in their tackle, motors, boat, and electronics, and have challenged the marine and tackle industries to provide this for them. The industry has responded and today’s weekend warrior just doesn’t know how good he has it. Everything is better, extremely better. All they have to do is see what the Pros are using and copy them. On the other side of the coin, the Pros demand more of themselves and their teams. In 2005, a group of highly respected fishermen from Jacksonville, Florida, teamed together to make a run at the title. Not only did they succeed, but were the first ever Pro rookie team to attain the Angler of the Year title, proving that determination plays a very important role in a team’s overall success. They were Terry Johnson, Jake Fulmer, David Yamaha Pro Tour
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Reddick, Chris Johnson, and Clyde Keen. Dave Workman has attained this pinnacle of success three times, in ‘94, ‘95, and again in ‘99, the only one to ever accomplish this feat. Everyone expects this highly recognized angler to still add more Angler awards to the record books. In 2006 Ron Mitchell and his Bandit team put together the best season ever
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recorded. Their seven fish stringer totaled 283.14 which equates to an average of nearly forty and a half pounds per fish. The highest seven fish aggregate up to this point had been Clayton Kirby’s 266.40, a 38 pound average, set in 1997. Mitchell’s aggregate may never be beat! When you come to a tournament, be sure to introduce yourself to any one
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of these Pros listed in our magazine. If you’re interested in getting into offshore fishing they’re the ones to talk to. They know the right tackle, right boats and motors, and where to fish. Discussing king mackerel fishing may take more than a few minutes however. After all, it is their passion!
Yamaha Pro Tour
2 0 0 9 January 23–25 Key West, Florida (Please note that for this tournament the Captain’s Meeting is on Friday with fishing on Saturday and Sunday)
April 30–May 2 Jensen Beach, Florida June 4–6 Fourchon, Louisiana July 30–August 1 St. Simons Island, Georgia October 8–10 Little River, South Carolina More Details at www.FishSKA.com Yamaha May 2009Pro | ATour NGLER
This is a special tour of five events held in prime locations from the Carolinas to Louisiana. It is the toughest test of team skills in any fishing contest in the world. Not only do these highly skilled contestants have to fish in unfamiliar waters but in all types of sea conditions. They are allowed to weigh one fish per team per day, total of ten if they weighed a fish each day in the five events. 2009 www.FishSKA.com
The SKA tabulates the team’s best seven fish and the winner, the team with the best aggregate, is crowned “Top Angler of the Year,” sport fishing’s most coveted title. The tour is named after its title sponsor, Yamaha. The 2009 season is also sponsored by Contender Boats and Raymarine Electronics. The Yamaha Professional Kingfish Tour will host its Captain’s Meetings on Thursday nights with tournament fishing on Friday and Saturday.
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The Yamaha Pro Tour
ified for the previous year’s SKA National Championship out of Divisional competition. Teams are allowed to weigh two fish per event, up to ten fish cumulative. At the end of the season, each team’s best seven fish are tallied and the team with the highest seven-fish aggregate is crowned “Top Angler of the Year.” The winning team has proven to be capable of locating and catching sizable King Mackerel far from home, in unfamiliar waters, using varied techniques.
is a prestigious five tournament series for the highly skilled, visible angler. At stake is the title of SKA’s Top Angler of the Year, the most prestigious and coveted award in the world of saltwater sport fishing today. To be eligible to compete on this tour a team must have qual-
Mark, Joshua, and Crockett Henderson, plus Chris Waters made up the 2008 Liquid Fire Angler of the Year Team!
South Carolina’s Kent Taylor, Patrick Bellamy, Chuck Permenter, and Todd Sanders, won the 2007 Angler of the Year honors fishing Mining My Bidness. Set highest seven fish aggregate record of 284.10 pounds. 10
Curt Johnson, Justin Burgreen, Captain Ron Mitchell, David Pendergraft and Tom Kenney. 2006 Anglers of the Year on Bandit.
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Yamaha Pro Tour
Final Strike won the honor in ‘05. The first rookie team ever to win the title. David Reddick, Clyde Keen, Terry Johnson, Chris Jacobson, and Jake Fulmer Jr.
Paul Massey, Captain of Outrageous, with teammates Joe Bruce, David Fullford, Mark Yokeley, and Travis Massey. Anglers of the Year in 2003.
Fish Meister was the 2004 Angler of the Year. Captain Dean Spatholt, David Haynes, Greg Spatholt, Russell Spatholt, and Dennis Watson.
Ed Mecchella won Top Angler of the Year and National Championship in 2002. Jim Conway, Ed Mecchella, and Fred Hoyt were part of the winning team.
David Van Lent’s Team Yellowfin was the champion in 2000. David now runs a Yamaha powered Contender and competes on In The Rough.
Yamaha Pro Tour
Chris and Jan Chase were our 2001 winners fishing a Team Donzi boat. Rob Dunagan and Chip Underwood were also part of the team. 2009
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Joe Bruce (left) has won many awards in SKA competition, but he won his biggest title in ‘92. Joe is part of the Outrageous team, 2003 Angler of the Year.
Steve and Ginger Shook did it in 1998 and gave the state of Louisiana its first champion. L to R: Steve and Ginger Shook and Aaron Pierce.
Three-time “Top Angler of the Year,” Dave Workman Jr., won the prestigious honor in ‘94, 95, and ‘99. Workman now fishes for Team Donzi and Mercury Outboards.
Clayton Kirby earned the honor in the SKA’s inaugural year, 1991, then came back to do it again in 1997. Clayton fishes for Fountain Powerboats and Mercury Outboards.
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Rick Smith (right) and Tony Thaw (center) won the ‘96 honors. Fishes on the “Wild Turkey.” Now part of the Wellcraft, Evinrude factory team. Won National Championship in 2003 and 2005. 2009 Yamaha Pro Tour
“TThe range of colors in the Hi-Seas Grand Slam Braid collection in green, yeellow, and red makes it easy to identify between the different outfits used inn ouur saltwaateer trrolling pattern - each outfit has a different colored line, a crriiticcal benefit when fishingg the Nationall SKA kinggfish tournam ments where being quick to the rod can result in a winning bite. This braid’s silkiness glides through the guides and has great knot strength!”
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36' OPEN FISHERMAN Designed to set the new standard in the SKA, the Invincible 33 and 36 Open Fisherman have a patented hull with two steps and a tunnel that is air fed by the steps. This gives the boat a vastly improved ride and increased speed over conventional stepped hulls and Deep V's. Speed, dryness, and unmatched rough water ability make this boat a perfect match for those anglers seeking the ultimate center console fishing machine. Huge above deck and below deck livewells can be pressurized to keep bait frisky during long runs in heavy seas. A layout with 360 degrees of fishing room make landing that winning smoker a lot easier. Our boats are a perfect match for any serious fisherman. The Invincible was designed to make long runs in rough seas that are necessary for winning tournaments. The boat is completely vacuum bagged and its modern construction techniques allows it to flourish for years on the most grueling tournament trail in fishing. In our first year competing in the SKA, Invincible had 3 boats finish in the top 8 positions of the Professional Kingfish Tour, an amazing feat to say the least. Find out why some of the top anglers are becoming part of the Invincible family. INVINCIBLE BOAT COMPANY | 4450 NW 128th Street | Opa Locka, Florida 33054 | 305-685-2704 | invincibleboats.com
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Yamaha Pro Tour
SKA National Champion & Hall of Fame Member Stan Jarusinski uses AFW Titanium Tooth Proof.
“AFW’s Titanium Tooth Proof & Leaders are a must-have when fishing for toothy fish. They are extremely kink resistant so you can continue to fish with it bite after bite all day long.”
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Yamaha Pro Tour
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Yamaha Pro Tour
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Yamaha Pro Tour
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Professional Anglers Showcase
Yamaha Pro Tour
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NATIONAL RANKING: 1 TEAM: LIQUID FIRE BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Magic Tilt CAPTAIN: C. “Mark” Henderson, Cape Carteret, North Carolina TEAMMATES: Chris Waters, North Carolina Joshua Henderson, North Carolina Crockett Henderson, N. Carolina Charles Henderson, NC SPONSORS: Raymarine, Power Marine Outfitters, Accurate Reels, Cannon Downriggers, Contender, Stevenson Automotive Group, Power Marine, Yo-Zuri, Profinder, Minnkota, Berkley, Spro, Yamaha, Ocean Tamer. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 2008 Angler of
the Year. They embarked on their rookie year in the Pro’s nationally ranked at number 84. During their first competitive year as a team in ’04 they nabbed top SKA honors in the Atlantic Beach KMT. The following year Charles was the Division 12 Senior Angler Champ and Joshua and Crockett secured 1st place Junior. Other finishes include 11th in ’08 Key West Pro, 1st in Jensen Beach Pro, and 3rd in Frances Langford Memorial Tournament plus 2nd in St Simons Pro and 8th in Golden Isles King Classic. Liquid Fire has had numerous top ten finishes and Crockett has accrued over 15 first place Junior Angler honors. Maybe the best family fishing team on the circuit.
NATIONAL RANKING: 2 TEAM: THE A TEAM / TEAM CHARTER LAKES BOAT BRAND: Fountain MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Myco CAPTAIN: Alden Thornton, Ponte Vedra, Florida TEAMMATES: Alison Thornton, Florida Chad Branch, Florida Preston Hendrix, Georgia David Pennington, North Carolina SPONSORS: Charter Lakes Marine Insurance, Fountain Boats, Mercury Outboards, Myco Trailers, Garmin, Winslow Life Rafts, Diamond Line Co., Accurate Reels, Bethel Marine Electronics, Travelers. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Earned National
Number 4 in ’06, National Number 2 in ‘08. Alden broke the three-engine barrier by successfully adding a fourth outboard and created a new element to the sport. Won the Fourchon, Louisiana leg of the ’06 Pro Tour. Alison is considered one of the top ladies in the sport. Alden has put together a good team and heads up the Fountain Fishing Teams. All team members are veteran Pros. This is a well conceived team that should challenge for the title this year.
NATIONAL RANKING: 3 TEAM: THAT’S MY DOG BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Forrest Taylor, Shallotte, North Carolina TEAMMATES: William Taylor, Sr., North Carolina Richard McRae, North Carolina David Hooks, North Carolina Adam Taylor, North Carolina Preston Kendall, North Carolina SPONSORS: Yellowfin, Mercury, Loadmaster, Furuno, Ocean Isle Fishing Center. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Winners of the 1998 National Championship and 2nd in the Kingmaster 100 Invitational Tournament the same year.
Adam is a past Top Junior Angler. William was the Top Senior Angler in 2005 in the Pros. They have won over $100,000 in a single year plus many tournaments throughout the years. 14th in ’05 and 17th in ’07, and now 3rd in ‘08. This consistency will give them the only title they haven’t achieved, maybe this year.
NATIONAL RANKING: 4 TEAM: KOOLAU BOAT BRAND: Fountain MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Myco CAPTAIN: Conrad Lau, Neptune Beach, Florida TEAMMATES: Dell Williamson, North Carolina Rad Lau, Florida Rocky Cusack, Florida Jessie Williamson, North Carolina SPONSORS: Raymarine, American Fishing Wire, Navionics, Spro, Boone, Chaos Rods, ODW Outdoors, and Calusa Nets. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: From ‘99 to ‘08 the team has had over 30 top ten finishes. Five top 5 Pro finishes. Earned 3rd in the ’03 National
Championship. Picked up 1st in the FLW Pro Series in ’07, a 2nd in Georgetown and St. Marys. Jessie was the Top Pro Lady Angler in ’08. Very analytical team, does their homework. Others turn to Conrad for advice. Went from 43rd in ’06 to 12th in ’07 and 4th in ’08. This team is loaded with talent, very loyal to sponsors, and does an excellent job for them. Should be our Champions this year!
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Yamaha Pro Tour
NATIONAL RANKING: 6 TEAM: HOT GRITS BOAT BRAND: Donzi MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Andrew Hinton III, Raleigh, North Carolina TEAMMATES: David Stallings, North Carolina Ward Whitfield, North Carolina Ned Grady, North Carolina SPONSORS: Donzi, Mercury, Loadmaster. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Big year in ’04, their rookie year. Won the Teach’s Lair Pro event and got a top ten Pro number to boot. In 2003, the team took 4th in Toys for Tots, 3rd in Coral Bay, 4th in Drum
Inlet, and 5th in Onslow Bay to capture the title for Division 9. They also captured Division 9 in ’02, won Teach’s Lair, and set the North Carolina big fish record and National record, 66.55 pounds. 9th in ’04, 11th in ’05, 12th in ’06 and now 31st. Shows tremendous consistency and determination. One of the best in the Pros, and sure to be Champions soon.
NATIONAL RANKING: 7 TEAM: NATIVE BOAT BRAND: Fountain MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Owens and Sons CAPTAIN: Robert “Cawley” Snibbe III, Largo, Florida TEAMMATES: Jerry Solovskoy, Florida Ken Dellane, Florida Kevin Farner, Florida Adam Silva, Florida Jimmy Cope, Florida SPONSORS: Mercury, Fountain, ProMarineUSA.Com, Gulfcoast Autobody, JDS Construction Services, Inc. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: One of the best teams to come out of the Gulf of Mexico. In Division 6 competi-
tion they have won the Suncoast Kingfish Classic in ‘04, Spring King of the Beach in ‘06, Billie’s Stone Crab Kingfish in ’04 & ’07. They have two seconds in ’05 and ’07 in the King of the Beach, and a great third place Division 6 final in ’05. They have many other tournament placings. Robert is a USCG Licensed Master with over eight years experience as a charter captain. Almost every member on the team holds a Captain’s License. Earned National Number 7 first year in Pros in ’08. Lots of experience, hard working, and dedicated, they will achieve a National title!
NATIONAL RANKING: 8 TEAM: MAD MOUSE BOAT BRAND: SeaCraft MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: EZ Loader CAPTAIN: Rob Ferris, Harrisburg, North Carolina TEAMMATES: Sam Locklear, North Carolina Randy McBride, Alabama Stoney Stone, Georgia Russ Ferris, North Carolina Monica Ferris, North Carolina SPONSORS: SeaCraft Boats, Mercury Outboards, EZ Loader Trailers, Cannon Downriggers, Raymarine, Daiichi Hooks, Spro Sports Professionals, P-Line, Hydroglow Fish Lights. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Won the ’08
Sportsman Award. Earned 4th in the Key West Pros in ’06, 3rd in Jensen Beach Pros in ’08, 6th in Little River Pros in ’08. Have 3 career wins including Frances Langford in ’08. No one works harder for their sponsors than Rob. He is highly regarded among his peers. This is a SeaCraft team that has the ability, experience, and determination to get to the top. Qualified 8th in the Pro Tour this year. If they want it, they’ll win it all!
NATIONAL RANKING: 9 TEAM: PROMARINEUSA.COM / TEAM YOUNG GUNS BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Evinrude TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Lee Way Jr., Bunnell, Florida TEAMMATES: Sebastian Butarelli, Florida Jason Powell, Florida Brett Taylor, Florida SPONSORS: ProMarineUSA.com, Four Way Trucking and Sod, Inc. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Fourth year on Tour. Finished in top ten last year. This team lets their fishing prowess speak for itself. Winners of ‘04 Halfmoon and St. Mary’s Tournaments in Georgia. Won Division 4
and runner up in Division 10. Five top ten finishes in ‘04. Nothing more needs to be said, this team is a winner already and will accomplish their goals.
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NATIONAL RANKING: 11 TEAM: PROMARINEUSA.COM / HANNON’S CANNON BOAT BRAND: Invincible MOTORS: 1-Mercury, 1-Yamaha, 1Evinrude TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Kevin Hannon, Seminole, Florida TEAMMATES: Shannon Armstrong, Florida Rick Cook, Florida Chris Blackwell, Florida Jim Naset, Florida SPONSORS: ProMarineUSA.Com, Performance Outboard & Machine, Dogfish Tackle, UFlex. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Their list of accomplishments run very deep. 40 money finishes since ’99 including
wins in the Fort Pierce Open, St. Simons Open, and in Divisions 6, 10, and 11. Earned 2nd in Key West Pros, 8th in Jensen Beach Pros, and 8th in Little River Pros in ’07. Earned 2nd in ’08 National Championship. First place ‘08 Little River Pros. Finished 4th overall on Pro Tour in ’07 and 11th in ’08. This is a great team with a terrific sponsor. Should be at the top or real close going into the final event of the year.
NATIONAL RANKING: 12 TEAM: POSSE BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Daniel Crowley, Palm Valley, Florida TEAMMATES: Travis Crowley, Florida Muller Otto, Florida Lewis Rogers, Florida Lucas Crowley, Florida Laurie Crowley, Florida SPONSORS: Crowley’s Concrete, Century Construction, Air Shock America, Wingate Insurance, River Marine. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: This highly experienced team made the Pros through qualifying not only from
Division 4, but 5 also. In ‘05 the team won the Nassau TFC, earned 14th in the Kingbuster, 13th in aggregate in the Greater Jacksonville Tournament, 9th in St. Mary’s, and 16th in Sapelo. Moved to 68th in rankings in ’06 and ‘07 to 30th, and in ’08 has climbed to 12th. Firt Place in the Pros in Little River, SC in 2008. Moving up in rankings quickly! This team has talent, determination, and the will to win. Look for them at the top at the end of the year!
NATIONAL RANKING: 13 TEAM: TRIPLE GOBBLE BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Magic Tilt CAPTAIN: Jeff Weathers, Moncks Corner, South Carolina TEAMMATES: Greg Weathers, South Carolina ACCOMPLISHMENTS: One of the best South Carolina teams ever. Fourth year on Pro Tour, this year they carry National Number 13. They’ve had 1st place finishes in Division 4, Tailwalker, Henckel Marine and Frantic Atlantic tournaments in Division 3. Earned 5th in Fourchon and 4th in Jacksonville in ’05. Took a 5th in Little River and an 11th in Fourchon in ’06 Pro Tour. Took
a 1st in the ’07 Golden Isles tour stop. And last year earned a 3rd in Little River and a 1st in the BMI tourney. The Weathers function as a machine, scaling big fish after big fish. Will be in the hunt for the title this year.
NATIONAL RANKING: 14 TEAM: SURREEL BOAT BRAND: Fountain MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Myco CAPTAIN: Steven Hays, Madeira Beach, Florida TEAMMATES: Perry Warner, Florida John Molfetto, florida SPONSORS: Sprint, Apex Lending. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: This team fishes Division Six on Florida’s west coast and has had numerous top ten finishes. Steve is a Division 6 top 5 winner and has an 11th place finish in the Nationals to his credit. Warner has numerous top ten finishes. Moved to 14th in the overall rankings this year
in their rookie season, a major accomplishment. Had a win in the Fourchon Pro event and Kajun Sportsman tournament in ’08. This is a very talented team who never backs off. That talent will again keep them in the hunt for the top honors.
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2009
Yamaha Pro Tour
SEE HOW IT FEELS TO BE OUT IN FRONT.
POWER BEYOND COMPARE – VERADO ® TOP SPEED At Wide Open Throttle, Mercury® Verado 300 hp is than Suzuki® 300 hp four-stroke.
3.3 mph faster
300 hp 275 hp 250 hp
MERCURY VERADO
225 hp 200 hp 175 hp
SUZUKI
150 hp 135 hp
SEE MORE TESTS AT MercuryMarine.com
Mercury Verado was first on the outboard scene with its exclusive supercharged system. Since then, the competition just can’t keep up. With top-end speed reminiscent of a high-performance hot rod, Verado gets you there so fast it’s almost unfair. But supercharged power is just one of our many firsts. To see how far in front we really are, look deeper at MercuryMarine.com.
Source: Tests conducted by Mercury Marine – June 2007. Test conducted on a 23’ fiberglass fishing boat using a Mercury Verado 300 hp FourStroke and a Suzuki DF300 four-stroke. © 2008 MERCURY MARINE. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Suzuki is a registered trademark of Suzuki Motor Corporation. All other trademarks belong to the Brunswick Corporation.
Yamaha Pro Tour
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NATIONAL RANKING: 17 TEAM: TEAM DONZI BOAT BRAND: Donzi MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Pinnacle CAPTAIN: Ken Upton, Wilmington, North Carolina TEAMMATES: Dan Upton, North Carolina Jack Wood, North Carolina David Heavenridge, Florida Matt Davis, North Carolina SPONSORS: Donzi, Mercury, Pinnacle Trailers, Strike Zone, American Fishing Wire. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: The Team Donzi crew has been fishing for kings since 1983, with over eight trips to the winner’s circle and dozens of top ten finishes. Capped a great year in 2000
with a win at the SKA’s National Championship held in demanding conditions in Morehead City, North Carolina. In ’99, the team placed 8th in the SKA Nationals. They also currently hold the aggregate record at the Greater Jacksonville KMT set in ’92, of 108 pounds. Jack Wood is also a two-time winner of the SKA National Championship. They were ranked eighteenth in ’06 moving to National Number three in ’07. Dan was the Senior Angler of the Year in ’07 and won the Lifetime Achievement Award in ’06. Wood also has received the same award and both have been inducted into the SKA Hall of Fame. This is one of the best teams to ever fish the SKA circuits. If talent spells success, this team has already won!
NATIONAL RANKING: 21 TEAM: MAD GAFFER BOAT BRAND: Fountain MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Myco CAPTAIN: Stuart Fitzgerald, Lake Wales, Florida TEAMMATES: Kathie Stuart, Florida Bill Wummer, Florida Jackie Harrison, Florida Don Lamb, Florida Jason Jenkins, Florida Chad MacConnell, Florida SPONSORS: Sports USA Marine, Fountain, West Marine, Lee Fisher Nets. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: A veteran of Divisional competition. Finished in top ten in St. Petersburg, Naples,
Marco Island, T.A. Mahoneys, and earned 18th in the Kingbuster 400. Kathie has many Top Lady honors and won Senior Angler honors in Division 11. Has experience now. A threat to win any event they enter. This will be a very good year for the team!
NATIONAL RANKING: 23 TEAM: STRIKE ZONE BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Dave Workman Jr., Jacksonville, Florida TEAMMATES: Rick Stinson, Florida Don Workman, Florida SPONSORS: Yellowfin, Mercury, Boone Baits, Simrad, Penn Reels, Loadmaster Trailers, Strike Zone, C-Map. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Few names are as synonymous with king fishing success as that of Dave Workman, Jr. and the Strike Zone team. Workman won his third Top Angler of the Year title in ’99,
making him the only three-time winner of saltwater sport fishing’s most prestigious and coveted award. Workman has helped design boats and developed rods and reels for major manufacturers. Workman did the “Kingfishing Secrets” video that helped so many weekend anglers perfect the sport. He is a very accomplished angler. Stinson has learned from the master and is a tremendous asset to the team. Dave’s brother Don is a veteran on the pro circuit. Always the team to beat in any tournament entered.
NATIONAL RANKING: 24 TEAM: CAT DADDY BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Myco CAPTAIN: Danny Mathis, Gonzales, Louisiana TEAMMATES: Harry Thomas, Florida Bobby Schoenfeld, Texas Tracy Henry, Louisiana SPONSORS: Yellowfin, Mercury. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: 1st, Spring Frantic Atlantic, 2000. 5th, Frantic Atlantic, 2000. 3rd, Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo, 2000. 3rd, Division 7, 2000. 2nd, Kajun Sportsman, 2000. 2nd, North Carolina - South Carolina Governors Cup, 2000. Won FLW Pro in Fort Pierce
and captured 3rd in FLW Pro Venice. Added Schoenfeld to team, one of the best fisherman in the country. Thomas is a top angler from Florida’s west coast. Hard working, hard charging team.
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Yamaha Pro Tour
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NATIONAL RANKING: 25 TEAM: TEAM SIMRAD BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Myco CAPTAIN: Mark Maus, Sarasota, Florida TEAMMATES: Sean Edmunds, Florida Michelle Maus, Florida Dowling Granberry, Georgia Jeff Worn, Georgia SPONSORS: Simrad, Mercury, Myco Trailers, Penn Tackle, Shakespeare Tackle, Plano, Frostbite Coolers, Globelstar, American Fishing Wire, Daiichi Hooks, Strike Zone, Boone Tackle, Sign Zoo. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Was ranked 50th in ’06 and roared up to 8th
in ’07 Went from 83rd in ranking to 22nd in ’03 and captured 18th in the standings in ’04. Has a great history of top ten finishes. Great sponsors and all the talent to be a Champion!
NATIONAL RANKING: 26 TEAM: TEAM FOOTLOOSE BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Steven Trussell, Pooler, Georgia TEAMMATES: John Trussell, Georgia Billy McNeer, South Carolina ACCOMPLISHMENTS: This team has been an annual Nationals qualifier out of Division 4. Has many money finishes to their credit. ‘06 was their rookie year and ended up 53rd. Last year they climbed up to 26th overall, an impressive showing! Georgia has a big list of extraordinary fisher people who have won the Association’s top
honors. Is this team following in that tradition? You better believe it! They have all the makings of Champions but just need a Pro win to get them to the top. This will be the year they see their hard work come to fruition.
NATIONAL RANKING: 27 TEAM: FISH DANCER BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Jeffery Dunbar, Fernandina Beach, Florida TEAMMATES: Nancy Dunbar, Florida Bob Woithe, Florida Susan Woithe, Florida SPONSORS: Contender, Mercury, Loadmaster, Hi-Seas Line, American Fishing Wire. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: This high-energy husband and wife team joined the tour after qualifying by finishing 8th in Div 4 in ’02. The same year they won the Kingfish division of the Offshore Blitz, took
1st Lady Angler in the Two Way plus 2nd overall, and 2nd Lady at Halfmoon as well as 9th overall. Won the final leg of the Pro Tour in Louisiana in ’03 with a 61.1-lb. king, the largest ever weighed by a lady angler. Four money finishes in ’06. Nancy finished 3rd lady overall in ’06. Completed the SKA Professional kingfish grand slam weighing fish in 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 & 60-lb. classes, holds the SKA big fish (61.1) & aggregate records (104.59) for Fourchon, LA and finished in the money 24 times in their SKA career. Jeff received the SKA Directors Award in 2005 for his unselfish contributions to the sport. Nancy is considered one of the top ladies in the country.
NATIONAL RANKING: 28 TEAM: MINING MY BIDNESS BOAT BRAND: Donzi MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Chuck Permenter, Little River, South Carolina TEAMMATES: Patrick Bellamy, South Carolina Kent Taylor, South Carolina Todd Sanders, South Carolina Tommy Bellamy, South Carolina SPONSORS: Donzi, Mercury, Loadmaster, P-Mining, Hi Seas, American Fishing Wire. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: A solid team and a stellar performance last year fishing the Pros. Went from 62nd place in ’06 to National Number One in ’07. They were the Division
3 Champions in 2000 and have had numerous top ten finishes in South Carolina tournaments. Part of the Donzi , Mercury team. If they can finish in the top ten standings in ’09 they will be in a league of their own. It’s not just winning but consistency that makes true champions. Their peers believe it will happen!
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Yamaha Pro Tour
NATIONAL RANKING: 31 TEAM: STROKE IT BOAT BRAND: Fountain MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Real Extreme CAPTAIN: Augusto “Gus” Ibanez, Islamorada, Florida TEAMMATES: Chad Barnes, Florida Jorge Orellana, Florida Mark Melhado, Florida SPONSORS: Lighthouse Boat Center, Mercury.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Our first team to move to the Pros from the Florida Keys. Very accomplished. Earned a berth on the National Team for Fountain Powerboats and Mercury Outboards. Will prove their worth to their sponsors this season.
NATIONAL RANKING: 33 TEAM: BARBARA ANN BOAT BRAND: Wellcraft MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Road King CAPTAIN: Dr. John Adcox, Jr., Jacksonville, Florida. TEAMMATES: Barbara Adcox, Florida SPONSORS: C & C Powerline, Inc., Wink Marine. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: This is a great husband and wife team that has the skill level to move up very high in the rankings this season. Only been tournament fishing since ’03 but is making their presence felt. Has determination and confidence! They were a top ten finisher in Rumble in Jungle in ’08
and Barbara won Top Lady Angler honors. Also won 2nd place in FLW tour in Wrightsville Beach. They will earn their first tournament win this year if they stay focused.
NATIONAL RANKING: 34 TEAM: WOUND TIGHT / TEAM FISHBOATLOANS.COM BOAT BRAND: Donzi MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Magic Tilt CAPTAIN: Thomas Mulligan, St. Augustine, Florida TEAMMATES: Jim Scharfschwerdt, Florida Louis Cici, Florida Bart Hinson, Florida Michael P. Crabtree, Florida Katherine Scharfschwerdt Matthew Scharfschwerdt SPONSORS: FishBoatLoans.Com, Harwill Fixtures, Raymarine, Yamaha, Donzi, PirateCom. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Great team entering their fifth season from Division 5. Won Kingbuster in ’01 and Stuart
Kingfish Brawl in ’04. Jim’s daughter Katherine was the Pros Top Junior Angler in ’05. Won Top Junior Division 5, 2nd Lady Angler in ’06. Also qualified for National Championship in Division 5 & 10 in ’05 & ’06. Expect Matthew to follow the same course, he won Top Junior in Division 10 on ’07. Had biggest fish in ’07 National Championship,. In ’08 they earned 2nd in Kajun Sportsman Pro event, and won Greater Jax Junior Tournament. Have made it to the 50-pound club two years running. Michael Crabtree joins the team this year. He is one of the top Class of 23 Captains in the country. This team never gives up, but more important, their weight average keeps going up, something that must happen if you’re going to be Champions.
NATIONAL RANKING: 35 TEAM: CRAWGATOR BOAT BRAND: Invincible MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Myco CAPTAIN: Bill Butler, Belle Chasse, Louisiana TEAMMATES: Michael Butler, Louisiana Steve Jenkins, Louisiana Donald Bourgeois, Louisiana Rick Ryan, South Carolina SPONSORS: Venice Marina, Yamaha, Invincible, Simrad, Frost Bite Coolers. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: This team earned 8th overall in ‘04 and moved up to 6th in ’05. Then dropped of the map due to Hurricane Katrina. After rebuilding Venice Marina,
they returned to earn 5th overall in the standings in ‘07. One of the best teams fishing in the country ever! Owners of the famous Venice Marina in Louisiana. Fierce competitors, they never back off, quit, or lose enthusiasm. They could be the most consistent team ever to fish the tour. Will be Champions soon!
Yamaha Pro Tour
2009
27
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2009
Yamaha Pro Tour
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Yamaha Pro Tour
2009
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NATIONAL RANKING: 36 TEAM: HOLD’N ON BOAT BRAND: Fountain MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Myco CAPTAIN: J. Alan Holden, Holden Beach, North Carolina TEAMMATES: Shane Holden, North Carolina Patrick Bryant, North Carolina Jeff Lee, North Carolina Doré Holden, North Carolina Curren Holden, North Carolina Morrea Holden, North Carolina Clayton Kirby, Florida SPONSORS: Fountain Boats, RE/ MAX at the Beach, Alan Holden Vacations ACCOMPLISHMENTS: When you see where they’re from, North Caro-
lina, you know they grew up with a fishing rod in their hands. Carolina fishermen don’t like to finish second or any other place than number one. Be assured, they won’t quit until they’ve made it to the top. They’ve won and finished high in many events so they have the talent. Since starting on the Pro Tour the team has moved from 106th to 53rd, then 29th, and now 36th in standings. Their consistency should begin to pay off plus they’ve learned the waters outside North Carolina which takes time. Watch for them in the winners circle this year!
NATIONAL RANKING: 38 TEAM: MY THREE SONS BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Myco CAPTAIN: Terry Grantham, Florence, South Carolina TEAMMATES: Charles Grantham, South Carolina Chris Blanton, South Carolina Kelly Sisk, Florida SPONSORS: All Star Sports, Inc., Cannon Downriggers, American Fishing Wire. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: This very successful team finished 2nd in the Open Division in ’98, improving on their 5th place in the ’97 Open. In ’99, they won the final tournament in their home division to
qualify for an outstanding eighth time in a row for the National Championship. They have wins in Frantic Atlantic, Wrightsville Beach, Hilton Head, Topsail Beach, and Sarasota. This is one of the oldest fishing teams, in terms of fishing together, on the circuit, and are poised and ready to win the 2009 Top Angler of the Year award.
NATIONAL RANKING: 40 TEAM: FOUR SUNS BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: William “Billy” Gressette, Goose Creek, South Carolina TEAMMATES: Harry Gressette, South Carolina Doug Gressette, South Carolina Brandon Long, South Carolina Bob Voisinet, Florida SPONSORS: Grescon, LLC, Carolina Custom Homes of Charleston, Inc. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Third year on the Pro Tour. Has the knowledge to be the winner. This team qualified out of the South Carolina Division 3 and is considered to be one of the best from that state. This fam-
ily team, who shows a lot of class, is highly respected among their peers and will be in the chase as the last event comes up.
NATIONAL RANKING: 43 TEAM: RAT PAK BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Ameritrail CAPTAIN: Darren Ratley, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina TEAMMATES: John Mott, South Carolina John McNeill, South Carolina Jimmy Stecki, Florida SPONSORS: Yellowfin, Mercury, Bennett’s Seafood. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: The Rat Pak team has been very successful on the tournament trail since ’94, placing in the top twenty on their first season fishing the Yamaha Pro Tour. Has five tournament number ones, two of them Pro events,
latest being the ‘08 Golden Isles in St. Simons Island, Georgia. Won Pro event in Ft. Pierce with a great 62.68 in ‘03. Has to be one of the most consistent teams to ever fish SKA competitive events. This could be their year!
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NATIONAL RANKING: 44 TEAM: AT&T THE REAL YELLOW PAGES BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Kenny Crawford, Fernandina Beach, Florida TEAMMATES: Bill Walsh, Florida Al Morris, Florida John Giese, Florida Cindy Farlow, Florida Tom Fencl, Florida SPONSORS: AT&T Real Yellow Pages, Contender, Yamaha, Raymarine, Amsoil, Go Wraps. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Kenny was the Division 5 winner in ’92, won Golden Isles in ’98, the Kingmaster
in ’03, Greater Jacksonville VIP in both ’04 and ’05, the Ancient City in ’07 and set a tournament record, plus Captain Hap’s in ’07. In ’08 they won the St. Mary’s Saltwater Classic. This is one of the best fishing teams fishing today and has excellent perceptions. Kenny has a great shot at the title this season. This is one team to really keep your eye on. Has a great sponsor!
NATIONAL RANKING: 47 TEAM: BANDIT BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Suzuki TRAILER: Myco CAPTAIN: Ron Mitchell, Port St. Lucie, Florida TEAMMATES: Will Geraghty, Florida Carl Carder, Florida David Butler, Florida Brad Butler, Florida SPONSORS: Suzuki Motors, Contender Boats, Raymarine, Accurate Reels, Ande Monofilament, ProFish Chum, Myco Trailers, ProFinder Chips, Navionics, PirateCom, Palegic, Guardian Mobility, E-Sea Rider, Charter Lakes Insurance. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Angler of the
Year ’06, saltwater fishing’s most coveted title! Set the largest seven fish aggregate in Pros since SKA inception in ’91 till it was beaten in ‘07. Qualified out of Division 10 every year since ‘99 for the National Championship. Perennial winner and top ten finisher. Placed in the top twenty first year in the Pro Division. Could be the best team fishing today, certainly the most consistent. This year combined two other Pro teams, Carl Carder and the Butlers. Along with Geraghty they have the talent to win three titles. Very professional, serious about their game, and will be around in the title round this year. Take it to the bank.
NATIONAL RANKING: 52 TEAM: IN THE MOMENT BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Ameritrail CAPTAIN: B.J. Pearson, Jacksonville, Florida TEAMMATES: Carolyn Williams, Florida Greg Rodgers, Florida SPONSORS: Pearson’s Refacing & Cabinetry, Inc. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Another great fishing team advancing from Division 5 (N.E. Florida), the toughest division to qualify in for the Nationals. Members since ’95, this team has seen its share of the winner’s stage and they have a very competitive lady angler.
They have the skills, the equipment, and that sixth sense that you need when competing at this level. They’ll do just great this year.
NATIONAL RANKING: 54 TEAM: KAJUN SPORTSMAN BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Anthony Toups, Golden Meadow, Louisiana TEAMMATES: Joey Toups, Louisiana Jon Stevens, Louisiana Austin Johnson, Louisiana Larry Gutelius, Louisiana Panky Christen, Louisiana SPONSORS: Contender, Yamaha, Loadmaster, Laris Insurance. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: This team adds a lot of camaraderie and spirit to the Tour. Anthony produces a world-class tournament each year for Division 7 at the Kajun Sports-
man in Fourchon, Louisiana, and is highly respected in the angling community. Anthony and his wife Rebecca gives generously to insure the success of the SKA. This is a very good team who have been fishing together for some time now.
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NATIONAL RANKING: 58 TEAM: HAULIN ACE BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Mark Strickland, Wilmington, North Carolina TEAMMATES: Pernell Roberts, North Carolina SPONSORS: Ace Transportation, Inc., Ramar Transportation, Inc. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Each team member is an accomplished fisherman in their own right. Earned a 1st at Presidents Day in Biloxi, 5th in Hatteras and Sneads Ferry, 2nd in Wrightsville, an 8th in Swansboro and 10th in Little River, all very prestigious events. Everyone is scratching their heads as to why
this team is not number one yet. The talent, discipline, and intensity is there, but that one big fish that will propel them to the top still eludes them. It will happen soon and they will accept the accolades they have more than earned. This is a world-class team!
NATIONAL RANKING: 59 TEAM: OLD BLUE BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Jim Vaughan, Lake Wales, Florida TEAMMATES: Mark Wilson, Florida Scott Snively, Florida Calvin McClary, Florida Willie Reichert, Florida Kevin Kenney, Florida SPONSORS: Texas Aquatic Harvesting ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Old Blue qualified out of Division 11 on Florida’s west coast. Have finished in top ten in his Division every year. A top contender in their rookie
season, Jim has surrounded himself with a good team. If they pay attention to details, do their homework, and come together as a team they can really do some damage this year.
NATIONAL RANKING: 60 TEAM: TEAM DUPREZ BOAT BRAND: Wellcraft MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Magic Tilt CAPTAIN: Jeffrey Osborne, Palm Valley, Florida TEAMMATES: David Osborne, Florida Daman Featheringill, Florida Charles Osborne, Florida Hunter Osborne, Florida Jake Osborne, Florida SPONSORS: Interiors by Duprez, Yamaha, All State Tree and Turf, Image International. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Jeff has the ability and the team to make an impact on our sport. Has a great sponsor. It’s also great to see that
Jeff is bringing along the kids. Most have more passion for the sport than the adults. The learning curve is not that tough but you must glean some local knowledge at each event. If you do that you can make it to the top.
NATIONAL RANKING: 61 TEAM: YOUNG GUNS BOAT BRAND: Fountain MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Lance Irvine, Fort Lauderdale, Florida TEAMMATES: Max Irvine, Florida Houston Irvine, Florida Hunter Irvine, Florida ACCOMPLISHMENTS: This is a great South Florida fishing team that has won many events including three victories in the Pompano Beach Rodeo. The team qualified for the ’04 Nationals, picked up 1st in the king division in the Saltwater Shootout and the Saltwater Slam. They won the Saltwater
Showdown and qualified in ’06 to go to the Nationals and join the Pros from Division 6. Finished 37th in ’07 Nationals and 28th on the Yamaha Pro Tour. Great talent, plus the desire to make a name for themselves in the kingfish world.
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Yamaha Pro Tour
Yamaha Pro Tour
2009
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2009
Yamaha Pro Tour
NATIONAL RANKING: 62 TEAM: MISTER MAGOO BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Pete Harper, Brunswick, Georgia TEAMMATES: Buddy Webb, Georgia Jamie Souter, Mississippi Rachel Harper, Georgia Bill Jacobs, Georgia SPONSORS: Hickory Bluff Marine, South Georgia Tower & Tank Inc., Southern Hardware. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: First year on Pro Tour. Has had numerous top twenty finishes. Fishes in Division 4 and has qualified every year since joining SKA. Finished 4th in
the Captain Haps event. Has a lot of potential and has advantage of one Pro event in home waters. Could be the sleeper of the season!
NATIONAL RANKING: 63 TEAM: KILL-N-ME / TEAM INVINCIBLE BOAT BRAND: Invincible MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Howard Poe, Darien, Georgia TEAMMATES: Donna Gowen Poe, Georgia Jack Barnett, Georgia Melissa Barnett, Georgia Steve Holley, Georgia Catherine Holley, Georgia Josh Poe, Georgia Josh Tucker, Georgia SPONSORS: Invincible Boats, Mercury, Accurate Reels, ProFinder Charts and Chips, Hi-Seas Line, Loadmaster Trailers.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Howard Poe is a past National Champion from 1996. Won South Brunswick and Topsail tournaments and has been a Pro Tour participant since inception. His wife Donna earned second place Class of 23’ in the National Championship in 2001. She put together the SKA’s first successful all-woman team. Howard took second in ’06 Nationals, won Division 5 in ’04, finished 4th at Hog’s Breath in ’06, and won the SKA Director’s Award in 2000. This team has the credentials to be in the winner’s circle by year’s end.
NATIONAL RANKING: 64 TEAM: FISH FEVER / STRIKE ZONE MELBOURNE BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Ameritrail CAPTAIN: Ed Mecchella, St. Simons Island, Georgia TEAMMATES: Shawn Mecchella, Florida Jim Conway, Florida SPONSORS: Strike Zone – Melbourne, Penn Tackle, Yellowfin. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Ed, Shawn, and Jim have certainly reached the pinnacle of success. Won National Championship in ’02 plus SKA’s Angler of the Year honors. Then in ’08 won the National Championship again. The team also won the
’08 Angler of the Year title on the FLW tour. Great competitors, do their homework, and catch a lot of fish. They still have many more victories in their arsenal.
NATIONAL RANKING: 65 TEAM: KWAZAR BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Ameritrail CAPTAIN: Marcus Kennedy, Mobile, Alabama TEAMMATES: Brian Bailey, Alabama Brian Bailey Jr., Alabama Max Williams, Florida Tyler Kennedy, Alabama David VanLent, Alabama SPONSORS: Syn-Fab Inc., Yamaha, Yellowfin, Bailey’s TV, Bass Pro Shops. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Probably the best upper Gulf team of all time. Marcus was six time Gulf Division Champion with 55 king mackerel
tournament wins since ’91. 23 of those are SKA wins. Holds the SKA Divisional three fish aggregate record of 165 pounds. The team has now set their sites on the Angler of the Year title and could do it this year!
Yamaha Pro Tour
2009
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NATIONAL RANKING: 66 TEAM: CONCHED OUT BOAT BRAND: Conch MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Rocket CAPTAIN: Corey McBride, Lighthouse Point, Florida TEAMMATES: Ryan McBride, Florida Gary McBride, Florida David Kalil, Florida Chase Haskin, Florida Greg Haskin, Florida SPONSORS: Mercury, Total Marine, Accurate Reels. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Since ’04, this team has been making waves. They finished 4th in Division 10 and was the top Mercury team and had the Top Junior. In ‘08
they were 3rd in Key West, 4th at the Bluewater Shootout, and the same in the Showdown. In ’07 the team racked up a 1st, 3rd, and two 4th places and won the Showdown Crown. This is a extraordinary team loaded with talent. The biggest challenge in your fishing career is to win Angler of the Year in your rookie year. This is one team that can pull it off!
NATIONAL RANKING: 67 TEAM: BLACK GOLD BOAT BRAND: Hydra Sports MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Mike McDuffie, Pittsboro, North Carolina TEAMMATES: Don Williamson, North Carolina Jordan Williamson, North Carolina Lawrence Bullard, North Carolina Karl Mrozek, North Carolina ACCOMPLISHMENTS: This talented team won the ’05 Rumble in the Jungle event, in ‘07 took second at Beaufort, and took a first on the FLW tours Wrightsville Beach stop. The team has 24 top ten finishes combined and has 68 combined tournament experiences. They
have had 3 national television appearances and several articles in national publications. You know what they say, the cream always rises to the top.
NATIONAL RANKING: 68 TEAM: CRIKEY BOAT BRAND: Invincible MOTORS: Evinrude TRAILER: Float On CAPTAIN: Andre Moore, Alabaster, Alabama TEAMMATES: Kim Bain-Moore, Alabama Glyn Austin, Florida Greg Watts, Florida SPONSORS: Invincible Boats, Evinrude, Accurate Reels, American Fishing Wire, Cannon Downriggers, Raymarine, Hi-Seas. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Talent laden, this is the team who can certainly set the world of kingfish on its ear. Andre is a two time FLW Forest Wood Open Champion and two-
time Bassmaster Classic Qualifier. Last year they earned 2nd in the Greater Jax aggregate division and qualified in Division 5 for the Nationals. Watts is the Redfish Tour king. Kim Bain-Moore is the ’08 Women’s Bass Tour Angler of the Year and the first woman to fish the Bassmaster Classic. Watch for them in the winner’s circle at this years Pro events!
NATIONAL RANKING: 69 TEAM: OCEAN ISLE FISHING CENTER BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Ameritrail CAPTAIN: Brant McMullan, Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina TEAMMATES: Barrett McMullan, North Carolina Rube McMullan, Georgia Amy McMullan, North Carolina Caroline McMullan, North Carolina SPONSORS: Ocean Isle Fishing Center ACCOMPLISHMENTS: The McMullan family hosts several events out of their Ocean Isle Fishing Center including two big kingfish events. They are considered to be one
of the best fishing families in the Carolinas, winning or placing in just about every event they enter. The OIFC does an excellent newsletter advising anglers in the Carolinas when and where the fish are biting. Check it out at www.OIFC.com
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Yamaha Pro Tour
NATIONAL RANKING: 70 TEAM: STEEL FISHING BOAT BRAND: Wellcraft MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Road King CAPTAIN: Randy Spainhour, Southport, North Carolina TEAMMATES: Joe Buie, North Carolina Ethan Hedrick, North Carolina SPONSORS: ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Randy Spainhour is a charter member of the SKA and is considered one of the best fishermen in the Carolinas. He has won numerous events over his career and his wife, Kathy, was our first ever Top Lady Angler. He is a threat in any event he fishes! When you add Joe Buie and Ethan
Hendrick to the team you should spell success. Randy carries National number 70 this season, but don’t be surprised if they move up in ranking very quickly. The team should win at least one of the five events this season!
NATIONAL RANKING: 72 TEAM: PAPOTANIC BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Myco CAPTAIN: Jose Reyes, Houston, Texas TEAMMATES: Bill Platt, Texas Randy Griffin, North Carolina Rick Vallone, Texas SPONSORS: Yamaha, Contender, Mustad Hooks, American Rodsmiths, Islander Tackle, Costa Del Mar. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: The best team to ever come out of Texas and perennial winners in Division 8 (Texas). Has a ton of talent and should be near the top at season end.
Bill may be the most recognized saltwater angler west of the Mississippi. Griffin should give them experience on the east coast and Jose will keep the team cohesive and in focus. Has great credibility!
NATIONAL RANKING: 73 TEAM: NATIVE PREMONITIONS BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Evinrude TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Leon Wilcox, Davie, Florida TEAMMATES: James Hammonds, North Carolina Ted Charles, Florida Sammy Avola, Florida Aaron Salvant, Florida SPONSORS: Evinrude, Reel Loco Marine, Simrad, Capt. Mark’s Chum, Seminole Tribe. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Leon has earned six top ten finishes in just two years. Qualified for the National Championship both years. Has extreme confidence and the team
works well as a team. Leon is a smart fisherman and adapts to the environment quickly.
NATIONAL RANKING: 74 TEAM: SEA QUAIL BOAT BRAND: Pro-Line MOTORS: Evinrude TRAILER: Magic Tilt CAPTAIN: Inman Coleman, Twin City, Georgia TEAMMATES: Tommy Lane, Georgia Daniel Coleman, Georgia Perry Lane, Georgia Sonya Lane, Georgia Johnathon Proctor, Georgia Kenny Deloach, Georgia Penny Morris, Georgia Tammy Deloach, Georgia SPONSORS: Coleman Game Birds, Sea Quail Charters, Southern Structural, Lane Lawn Service, Proctor Electric Services, Inc.,
Statesboro Winlectric, Inc., Hawk and Associates. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: A five-time Nationals qualifier out of Division 4. Finished 2nd with 1st lady angler at Two-Way then went on to finish 4th with 2nd place junior at Capt. Haps in ’08. Has many top ten finishes over the years and is widely respected in Georgia. Should make their presence felt in this their rookie year.
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NATIONAL RANKING: 75 TEAM: KAT’S RIVAL BOAT BRAND: World Cat MOTORS: Evinrude TRAILER: Float On CAPTAIN: Frank Langdon, Boca Raton, Florida TEAMMATES: Dave Ingalls, North Carolina SPONSORS: All Pool Services, Inc., Evinrude, Reel Pro Shop.Com, Banner Elk Communities, Inc.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Frank is the only Captain on the circuit who fishes by himself in most local events. Does he win and/ or place in events? Absolutely! He has qualified every year for the Championship since 2000. Could be the first team to win the title of Angler of the Year in a catamaran hull boat. You’re watching history unfold!
NATIONAL RANKING: 76 TEAM: RASCAL MEISTER BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Ameritrail CAPTAIN: Dean Spatholt, Calabash, North Carolina TEAMMATES: David Haynes, Florida Dennis Watson, North Carolina Greg Spatholt, South Carolina ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Dean has amassed a team of winners for a run at another title. In ’04 they won sport fishing’s most coveted title, “Angler of the Year”. After dominating leader boards throughout the Carolinas for years, the team turned Pro. They went from a National ranking
of 76th to finish 2nd overall in standings in ’03. Dean won the Dan Schaad Family Achievement Award in ’02. They have won many prestigious events including the U.S. Open, Golden Isles, and Frantic Atlantic, plus numerous lady and junior angler divisional firsts. Watch this team once again wrap their hands around the gold loving cup, hoisting it high in the air as a symbol of winning the title.
NATIONAL RANKING: 77 TEAM: EAST COAST SPORTS BOAT BRAND: Onslow Bay MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Magic Tilt CAPTAIN: Randall Edens, Hampstead, North Carolina TEAMMATES: George Edens, North Carolina Chris Gaddy, North Carolina Scott Wasilewski, North Carolina Cole Edens, North Carolina SPONSORS: East Coast Sports, Yamaha, Magic Tilt Trailers, Onslow Bay Boats, Zander Guy Real Estate, Blackbeard’s Treasure Campground. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Randall and his team are the 2008 National Champions in the Class of 23, sport
fishing’s most coveted honor! A perennial winner in North Carolina waters, he has won many events plus his team won Division 2’s Class of 23 in ‘08. Cole has won many Junior Angler honors and awards. The team qualified in ‘06 and ’07 for the FLW Tour Championship. Randall won the SKA’s Sportmanship Award in ’01 and has joined the Pro ranks this year for a run at the other title, “Angler of the Year.” Has got a good shot especially with the team he has!
NATIONAL RANKING: 78 TEAM: JUSTIN TIME BOAT BRAND: Invincible MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Manny Galvao, Seminole, Florida TEAMMATES: Mark Herring, Florida
ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Manny has been a force to be reckoned with on the west coast of Florida. He has won and placed in events for years but now wants a shot at the Pro Title and he and his teammate have a good shot. They must remain disciplined to make it happen.
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NATIONAL RANKING: 79 TEAM: TEAM CENTURY / YAMAHA / YO-ZURI BOAT BRAND: Century MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Tropic CAPTAIN: Ozzie Fischer, Fort Myers, Florida TEAMMATES: Greg Holley, Georgia Randy Truitt, Florida Christian Fischer, Florida Paul Michele, Florida SPONSORS: Yamaha, Century Boats, Yo-Zuri, Navionics, Raymarine. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Ozzie won the Hog’s Breath tournament in ’07 and Fort Myers Beach in ’08 and finished 2nd in Division 11 in ‘08. His team was the ’07 FLW Kingfish
Tour Team of the Year. Ozzie has won over 25 inshore, and offshore tournaments plus over 50 top five finishes since 2000. Could be a threat this year for SKA’s major title!
NATIONAL RANKING: 80 TEAM: REELIN BOAT BRAND: Marlin MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Marc Pincus, Hilton Head, South Carolina. TEAMMATES: Shawn Brantley, South Carolina Eric Moore, South Carolina Zack Lynam, South Carolina SPONSORS: Cannon Downriggers. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Mark has been a perennial qualifier for the Championship coming out of Division 3. He has many top ten finishes in his Division and now sets his sights on the title every fisherman covets. Fishing with the best in the country, the team cannot
make any mistakes if they expect to win. You can count on them to do just that!
NATIONAL RANKING: 81 TEAM: OBX GIRL / TEAM CALCUTTA BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Long CAPTAIN: Jim Dupree, Jr., Tarboro, North Carolina TEAMMATES: Jim Dupree III, North Carolina Dan Dupree, North Carolina Richard “Jiggy” Williams, North Carolina SPONSORS: Calcutta, Fish-ng Accessories, Morgan Keegan Stock Brokers, Overton’s and Consumer Marine, Roberson and Dupree Shoe Store. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Jim and his team are extremely respected in
North Carolina. Has numerous top five finishes since ’97. He held the SKA big fish record in North Carolina thru ’97. Won the Toys for Tots two years in a row, and had back to back wins in the Teach’s Lair events. In ’02 he just missed winning the Nationals finishing second. More than qualified to fish the Pro ranks and will be in the hunt all season! This could be the number one team this year.
NATIONAL RANKING: 82 TEAM: SAKÉ BOAT BRAND: Wellcraft MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Real Extreme CAPTAIN: Neil Nix, Okeechobee, Florida TEAMMATES: Danny Marsocci, Florida Eric Kindell, Florida John Crane, Florida Blake Marsocci, Florida
ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Neil and his team have fished together since ’97. That experience is the key ingredient to winning the title. Certainly have the credentials! Make sure you keep an eye on this team, should be there at the end!
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NATIONAL RANKING: 83 TEAM: SIMPLY STORAGE BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Ameritrail CAPTAIN: Michael Kennedy, Winnabow, North Carolina TEAMMATES: Mark Kennedy, North Carolina Rodney Benton, North Carolina Craig Hughes, North Carolina SPONSORS: M & M Mini Storage, MGK II, LLC Contracting. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: This popular North Carolina team has the ability to win it all. Their resume includes winning the Jolly Mon in ’07, one of the biggest events in the Carolinas. They qualified for the Nationals in Division 9
in ’07 and ’08 finishing 2nd and 1st respectively. Fished against the Pros in ’08 at Rumble in the Jungle and held their own earning 4th. Maybe the sleeper team of the year!
NATIONAL RANKING: 84 TEAM: BIG BAD WOLF BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Myco CAPTAIN: Stacy Wester, Wilmington, North Carolina TEAMMATES: Sandy Smith, Alabama Anthony Guettler, Florida Field Hucks, South Carolina SPONSORS: Yamaha Outboards. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Every one of these teammates are accomplished anglers in their own right. Stacy has won as many events as anyone fishing with the SKA today. Field grew up in the sport, earning many top junior honors, went to college and graduated,
and is now an important asset to the team. Sandy Smith is one of the most respected anglers in our sport having earned several second place finishes for the “Angler of the Year” title. You have to rank this team very high on your list to win the title in October.
NATIONAL RANKING: 85 TEAM: ON THE BRINK BOAT BRAND: Fountain MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Myco CAPTAIN: Kelley Clements, Richmond Hill, Georgia. TEAMMATES: Ellis Phillips, Georgia Tracy Shaw, Georgia Michael Mosley, Georgia Rusty Rogers, Georgia SPONSORS: Southern Alarm / Brinks Home Security, AT&T Real Yellow Pages, Stitch-N-Print, Gordon’s Storage. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: This new team finished in the top 5 of Division 3 in ’08 while only fishing three of the five events. Collectively,
this new team member’s have almost 30 years experience in the SKA and 17 different trips to the Nationals. This team also received its own invitation in ’08. Ellis Phillips had two top 5 finishes in the FLW as well as one top 10 finish there. There’s been many great teams come from Georgia, this is another one of those. Could even be the best!
NATIONAL RANKING: 86 TEAM: CALIENTE BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Ameritrail CAPTAIN: Arik Bergerman, St. Petersburg, Florida TEAMMATES: John Smith, Sr., Florida Paul Rogers, Florida Brian Hasson, Florida ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Loaded with talent, this is the melding of four individuals who have earned the respect of the fishing community. Arik is a ’08 Nationals qualifier and has been in the top ten in King of the Beach 3 times. John comes from Et Tu Brute and Team Marlago.com. He has 3 Division 6
Tournament wins and 2 seconds and is 3 time King of the Beach winner. Qualified in ’02, ’03, ’04, ’07, and ’08 for Nationals. Paul is a respected blue water fisherman having fished all over the world. And all team members are licensed captains. Brian Hasson fishing the Knot Me has 2 Div 11 tournament wins and 3 Div 6 tournament wins. If the talent works well together, they will be in the hunt all season!
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256.17 agg.
2nd Place
3rd Place
That’s My Dog | 247.30 agg.
The A Team | 254.64 ag
g.
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www.FishSKA.com
2009
ANGLER | November 2008
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told everyone, “This is one great ride.” Mark’s son Crockett is now our Top Junior Pro Angler of the Year. Two things are extremely important here. One, it proves that anyone, regardless of the size of the boat, if he applies himself, can obtain the highest degree of success our sport offers. Second, boat manufacturers should not get involved with our sport without a solid commitment. What a great entry into our sport this should have been for Sea Craft—they would have sold a lot of boats because of the win. Mark and his team will make great I checked the standings from ’07 for Champions. They epitomize what this sport Mark Henderson’s Liquid Fire team. He had is all about and will wear the crown well. qualified out of Division One where he They also received $20,000 for being the finished 16th and also from Division Two Angler of the where he qualified ninth. 4th Place | Ko Year. olau | 244.72 His team, better yet the whole family, ily, showed up in Key West and finished 11th overall. Pretty impressive. Sea Craft then asked his team, Joshua, Crockett, and Charles Henderson, plus Chris Waters, to fish the boat in Jensen Beach. They thought this would be OK, but remember Mark didn’t really set out to fish the Pro’s, only to help Rob and the factory. At the same time we were in negotiations with Sea Craft to become a sponsor, which they were extremely interested. In Jensen Beach Liquid Fire won the event and posted their largest king of the season, a 50.56. Rob finished hed third with the factory reps cheering the teams on. Next came Fourchon, 3.62 nny Wise | 24 5th Place | Pe but for whatever reason no one will ever understand, Sea Craft elected to not take the boat there for Mark. Mark continued to fish but in his own boat, a 23’ Yamaha powered Contender. They added more points to their aggregate. d In Golden Isles the Liquid Fire Team earned second place and after four eventss e had a seven fish aggregate of 256.17. At the final event of the Alden Thornton’s season the team did not A Team fished A-Team fished his Mercury powered scale a fish however no one below them Fountain to second place with less than could take over the number one spot. two pounds separating them from the win. Plus the family fished in a new 31T Alden Thornton, Alison Thornton, Chad Yamaha powered Contender Mark took Barnes, David Pennington, and Nick delivery of just before the event, which he Ambrose, went into the final event of the
got a phone call from Rob Ferris last January. Sea Craft had just built a new Class of 23 boat and the person who was supposed to run the boat (an SKA member) couldn’t get it together. He had found someone new to showcase the boat in the Pro Tour event in Key West and would it be all right.
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season needing a 23.86 to win, providing the Liquid Fire did not better their 28.51drop fish. They made a great attempt scaling a 22.38 on the final day of the Tour. Less than two pounds short. The A-Team scaled a 47.25, 46.71, 41.70, and a 40.60 as part of their seven fish aggregate of 254.64 pounds, plus they earned a fifth place in Golden Isles and a sixth in Jensen Beach. Third place fell to our ’98 National Champion Forrest Taylor. Forrest added team members all season long. David Hooks, William Taylor Sr., Preston Kendall, Richard McRae, Tripp Hooks, Jordan Sullivan, and Austin Aycock all contributed to the successful season. Forrest’s two biggest kings were a 50.79 and a 40.75. That s My Dog team, whic The That’s which fish a Mercury p powered Yel Yellowfin, e earned a fifth in K Key West aand a sixth in Jensen Be Beach. They ca came up sh short by jus just 8.87 po pounds for the overall win. How However, like the Liquid Fire, they needed to b better a 28-p 28-pound king in Lit Little River. With h the h fish h turned d off and roug rough weather, it was almost an impo impossible task but if you know Forr Forrest, he and the team never gav gave up. That’s why they’re win winners! C Conrad Lau picked up fourth with a seven fish aggregate of wit 244.72. He fished with Odell 244 and an Jessica Williamson, Gill Strelec Jr., and Rad Lau III, St on his Evinrude powered Wellcraft W and ended with a 244.72 pound seven fish aggregate. a Conrad and the team picked p up a third in the season opener in Key West and a seventh in Jens Jensen Beach. Their biggest king of the season seaso was a 49.71, which they caught in Key West. However, the team did receive Top Lady honors for teammate Jessica Williamson. Conrad is considered a true tactician of our sport and fished nowhere without Yamaha Pro Tour
doing his homework. Rounding out the top five was Jack Penny’s Penny Wise, a Yamaha powered Contender. Jack’s team was the only team to move into the top five in the Tour’s final event. They moved from seventh to fifth. Jack fished with Ken Dellane, Jeff Silverthorne, Stanley Ascension, and Stephen Cooper, plus added Steve Dellane, Danny Cordron, Kyle Rose, and Brian Brandano for one event each when he needed extra crew. Jack scored a seven fish aggregate of 243.62 and picked up a tenth place finish in Key West and a seventh in Jensen Beach. Their biggest fish were 46.29, 43.50, and 44.21. Jack is a tremendous angler and better yet, a person you enjoy being around. He is held in the highest regards among his peers. This was a tough season. It never gained the legs other years have produced. Key West produced rough weather and not near the big fish we expect to see. Jensen Beach, Fourchon, and Golden Isles lived up to their reputation but Little River’s weather took its toll. In ’06 Ron Mitchell’s Bandit team set an
all time seven fish aggregate of 283.14. Then in ’07 Chuck Permenter’s Mining My Bidness beat that with 284.10 points. This year the winning 256.17 aggregate was 27.93 pounds off the record. Weather is definitely the Pro’s worst enemy regardless of the size of their boats. Andy Hinton’s Hot Grits earned sixth with a 242.42 aggregate while another rookie team, Native / Team Chili’s picked up seventh with 242.21. Hinton fishes a Mercury powered Donzi while Robert Snibbe III fishes a Mercury powered Fountain. Eighth place went to Rob Ferris’ Mad Mouse. His Mercury powered Sea Craft team ended this season with 240.53 points. Ninth fell to Lee Way Jr. who fished the ProMarineUSA.Com Evinrude powered Yellowfin. The team had 235.56 points. Rounding out the top ten was Carl Carder’s “C” Crazy. His 234.01 aggregate was enough for Paul Paulk to earn Top Senior Angler of the season. They fish a Yamaha powered Contender. We look forward to seeing everyone next year as once again the Yamaha Professional Kingfish Tour kicks off in Key West. Congratulations to all on a truly great season!
Top Anglers of the Year and their seven-fish aggregates ’91 CLAYTON KIRBY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ’92 JOE BRUCE . . . . . . . . . . . . 255.75 ’93 WYNDALL VEREEN . . . . 239.85 ’94 DAVE WORKMAN, JR. . . 225.92 ’95 DAVE WORKMAN, JR. . . 211.96 ’96 RICK SMITH . . . . . . . . . . . 185.68 ’97 CLAYTON KIRBY . . . . . . . 266.40 ’98 STEVE SHOOK . . . . . . . . . 248.91 ’99 DAVE WORKMAN, JR. . . 264.86 ’00 DAVID VAN LENT . . . . . . 234.50 ’01 CHRIS CHASE . . . . . . . . . 222.93 ’02 ED MECCHELLA . . . . . . . 243.33 ’03 PAUL MASSEY . . . . . . . . . 251.78 ’04 DEAN SPATHOLT . . . . . . 246.38 ’05 TERRY JOHNSON . . . . . . 245.06 ’06 RON MITCHELL. . . . . . . . 283.14 ’07 CHUCK PERMENTER . . . 284.10 ‘08 MARK HENDERSON . . . . 256.17
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The extended liquid Fire Team celebrates at the awards ceremony. TM
Yamaha Pro Tour
2009
Home of Over 10,000 Fishing, Hunting and Kayak Items! 43
Top Lady Pro Jessica Williamson Koolau
Top Senior Pro Paul Paulk “C” Crazy
Top Junior Pro Crockett Henderson Liquid Fire 44
2009
Yamaha Pro Tour
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