2010 Yamaha Professional Kingfish Tour Guide

2010 Official Guide

Yamaha Professional Kingfish Tour

Congratulations to

2009 Contender Division Winners Div 1 Class of 23 SECOND CATCH | Burt & Margaret Ferebee

Div 5 Open Class AT&T THE REAL YELLOW PAGES | Kenny Crawford

Div 5 Class of 23 BADSPORT | Ben Hinson

Div 6 Class of 23 GET SNOOKERD | Chris Workman

Div 7 Open Class TERMINATOR | Gary Hiles

Div 7 Class of 23 GET LAYED | Fred Watkins

Div 8 Open Class SPICED RUM III | William Wummer

Div 9 Class of 23 TOES UP | Richard Boles

Div 10 Open Class KERI-N-ON | Jason Nauman

Div 10 Class of 23 PROMARINEUSA.COM/GATORFAN | David Albritton

Div 11 Open Class SECONDS 2 SPARE | Scott Rush

Div 11 Class of 23 GET SNOOKERD | Chris Workman

Congratulations and Thank You for Fishing a Contender

Yamaha Pro Tour

2010

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Yamaha Pro Tour

Yamaha Pro Tour

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A four stroke that’s up to 17% more fuel efficient.

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Yamaha Pro Tour

CAPTAIN GEORGE MITCHELL WEIGHS-IN ON THE NEXT GENERATION OF YAMAHA V6 OFFSHORE FOUR STROKES. “In the 20-plus years I’ve been taking folks out fishing, I’ve never experienced anything like it.

On my gulf iron-man expeditions, we can run 300 miles round trip, and not have to refuel. Not once.

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CLASS-LEADING YAMAHA V6 OFFSHORE FOUR STROKES. Here’s what they’ve got on the competition: > Smarter—Up to 17% more fuel efficient than comparable 300hp four strokes > Stronger—4.2-liters of big-bore displacement, the largest in its class > Lighter—Up to 77 pounds lighter than others in its class > Faster—Up to 19% faster at cruise RPM than other four strokes of similar horsepower > Dependable—Legendary Yamaha four stroke reliability Lighter. Faster. Smarter. Go get ‘er. Visit DiscoverV6offshore.com to learn more about the new Yamaha V6 Offshore Four Strokes.

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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.

This year the Pro format was changed to adapt to a changing economic climate.

It’s still as demanding. Instead of five fixed events, the Yamaha Pro Tour now has three fixed events where everyone comes together to compete. Each of

2010

those events has fixed values in points, two at 1,500 points for a win and the final at 1,750 points. Points are determined by a percentage factor. The winner obviously gets the full amount of the points. The rest of the field earns points based on the percentage of their fish to the winning catch. For example, if the winning fish is a fifty-pounder, first place gets 100% of the points (1,500 points). If the second place fish is a forty-pounder, second place would get 80% of the points (40÷50) or 1,200 points in a 1,500-point event.

Then each Pro team can pick up to ten local events to fish, which SKA calls Wildcard Events. The same principle applies.

They receive 1,000 points for a win or a percentage of points compared to the winning fish. A team can fish ten of these, but only their best four count.

So now it’s gone from an aggregateweight, five-tournament series to a point system with a maximum of scores from ten different events.

Time will tell if the anglers like this Yamaha Pro Tour

format, but for now excitement is very high.

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.

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 60 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 20. 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 and go to number three. From there, teams this year were just assigned a number. After this season, teams will be assigned a number based on their overall ranking from the past season.

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, Yamaha Pro Tour

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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 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.

Until 2010, it was a seven-fish format

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with each fish counting its exact weight. In 2006, Ron Mitchell’s Bandit team weighed seven fish totaling 283.14, the biggest aggregate scored since 1992. The average weight was 40.45—an incredible feat. Then in ’07, Chuck Permenter and his Mining My Bidness team eclipsed Mitchell’s total by .96 of a pound.

These are fantastic achievements and are the envy of everyone king mackerel fishing in the country. They may not be able to fish at this level today, but make no mistake, this is their dream—to compete

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at this level and ultimately find a way to join the tour.

When you come to a tournament, be sure to introduce yourself to any one 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

Yamaha Pro Tour

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The Yamaha Pro Tour

Divisional competition. At the end of the Pro season, the team with the best score based on Fixed and Wildcard Events 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 distinguished 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 qualified for the previous year’s SKA National Championship out of

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Bandit won in 2009.

Ron Mitchell, Carl Carder, David and Brad Butler, and Will Geraghty.

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Yamaha Pro Tour

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.

Curt Johnson, Justin Burgreen, Captain Ron Mitchell, David Pendergraft and Tom Kenney. 2006 Anglers of the Year on Bandit.

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. Yamaha Pro Tour

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Fish Meister was the 2004 Angler of the Year. Captain Dean Spatholt, David Haynes, Greg Spatholt, Russell Spatholt, and Dennis Watson.

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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.

Paul Massey, Captain of Outrageous, with teammates Joe Bruce, David Fullford, Mark Yokeley, and Travis Massey. Anglers of the Year in 2003.

David Van Lent’s Team Yellowfin was the champion in 2000. David now runs a Yamaha powered Contender and competes on Truckin’ Up. Chris and Jan Chase were our 2001 winners fishing a Team Donzi boat.

Rob Dunagan and Chip Underwood were also part of the team.

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Yamaha Pro Tour

Joe Bruce (left) has won many awards in SKA competition, but he won his biggest title in ‘92. Joe was part of the Outrageous team, 2003 Angler of the Year.

Three-time “Top Angler of the Year,” Dave Workman Jr., won the prestigious honor in ‘94, 95, and ‘99.

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.

Clayton Kirby earned the honor in the SKA’s inaugural year, 1991, then came back to do it again in 1997.

Rick Smith (right) and Tony Thaw (center) won the ‘96 honors. Fishes on the “Wild Turkey.” Won the National Championship Title in 2003 and 2005.

Yamaha Pro Tour

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Yamaha Pro Tour

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Professional Anglers Showcase Yamaha Pro Tour

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1. BANDIT BOAT BRAND: Invincible MOTORS: Suzuki TRAILER: Myco CAPTAIN: Ron Mitchell, Port St. Lucie, Florida TEAMMATES: Jim Patchett, Florida Ted Elliott, Florida Ty Elliott, Florida Jeff Silverthorne, Florida Stephen Cooper, Florida Mike Penny, Florida Curt Johnson, Florida SPONSORS: Suzuki Motors, Invincible Boats, Raymarine, Myco Trailers, Accurate Reels, Cannon Downriggers, Ocean Tamer Bean Bags, Ande Monofilament, Navionics, Sperry Boat Shoes, Edson,

3. TEAM SIMRAD BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Myco CAPTAIN: Mark Maus, Sarasota, Florida TEAMMATES: Dowling Granberry, Georgia Jason Hendricks, Georgia

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IGX, Rupp, Ocean Slayer, Lentine Marine, ACR, American Fishing Wire, Engel, Fishin Bum. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Angler of the Year ‘06 and ‘09, saltwater fishing’s most coveted title! Joined a very elite group of anglers. Set the second 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 before turning Pro. Perennial winner and top ten finisher. Different teammates this year but still could be the best team fishing today.

Very consistent and professional, serious about their game, and will be around in the title round this year. Take it to the bank.

2. CRIKEY BOAT BRAND: Invincible MOTORS: Evinrude TRAILER: Float On CAPTAIN: Andre Moore, Alabaster, Alabama TEAMMATES: Mark Lamb, Floridas Kim Bain Moore, Alabama Josh Herren, Alabama Paul Michele, Florida John Strudel, Florida

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, 9th in ’07, and roared up to 3rd last year. Went from 83rd in ranking to 22nd in ’03 and captured 18th in the standings in ’04. Earned 25th in ‘08, then made a run for the title in ’09 earning third only a little over five pounds out of first. Has a great history of top ten finishes. Great sponsors and all the talent to be a Champion!

1/2 LIT BOAT BRAND: Fountain MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Clayton Kirby, Jacksonville Beach, Florida TEAMMATES: Annie Kirby, Florida Dennis Sergent, Florida Gary Howell, Florida Don Potter, North Carolina Russ Parker, South Carolina John Edens, South Carolina Robert Edens, South Carolina Russ Parker Jr., South Carolina

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SPONSORS: Invincible Boats, Evinrude, Accurate Reels, American Fishing Wire, Cannon Downriggers, Raymarine.

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 twotime Bassmaster Classic Qualifier.

They’ve earned 2nd in the Greater Jax aggregate division and qualified in Division 5 for the Nationals before going Pro. 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!

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Clayton is a two time Angler of the Year, Sergent is a past National Champion. Two Champions on one boat could be a winner. Clayton has long been respected for being one of the best ever in our sport and is very highly respected.

If he can pull the team together they have to be favorites.

Yamaha Pro Tour

A TEAM / SEASON TICKET BOAT BRAND: Fountain MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Myco CAPTAIN: Alden Thornton, Ponte Vedra, Florida TEAMMATES: Alison Thornton, Florida Brad Butler, Florida David Butler, Florida Carl Carder, Florida Bill Gates SPONSORS: Fountain Boats, Mercury Outboards, Myco Trailers, Garmin, Winslow Life Rafts, Diamond Line Co., Accurate Reels, Bethel Marine Electronics, Crowder Rods, FishBoatLoans.com, Travelers.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Earned National Number 4 in ’06, National Number 2 in ‘08. Alden broke the three-en-

gine 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 great team and heads up the Fountain Fishing Teams. All team members are veteran Pros and are a well conceived team that should challenge for the title this year.

ANIMAL HOUSE BOAT BRAND: Wellcraft MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Road King CAPTAIN: John Parks, Jacksonville, North Carolina TEAMMATES: Dave Brown, North Carolina

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Parks and Brown have been winning kingfish events in the Carolinas even before the SKA was formed. Has to be one of the best ever in home waters, however has proven he can win outside his comfort zone. Hard work and a little luck will put them at the top of the ladder this year.

BAD COMPANY BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Lewis Rogers, Ponte Vedra, Florida TEAMMATES: Daniel Crowley, Florida Travis Crowley, Florida Muller Otto, Florida Lucas Crowley, Florida B.J. Pearson, 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 Sapalo. Moved to 68th in rankings in ’06 and ‘07 to 30th, and in ’08 has climbed to 12th.

Moving up in rankings quickly!

This team has talent, determination, and the will to win. Could be at the top at the end of the year!

BARBARA ANN BOAT BRAND: Wellcraft MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Road King CAPTAIN: Dr. John Adcox, Jr., Jacksonville, Florida.

TEAMMATES: Barbara Ann Adcox, Florida

SPONSORS: C & C Powerline, Inc. 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.

Besides fishing Pros, team finished 8th in the SKA’s toughest Division, five in ‘09. Watch them win an event this year!

Yamaha Pro Tour

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BIG DOG BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: AmeriTrail CAPTAIN: Chuck Arnold TEAMMATES: Stuart Ballard, South Carolina Ricky Hobbs, North Carolina Bill Cordes, Florida

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Chuck is responsible for the success of the American Striper Association and Stuart Ballard, who owns Tailwalker Marine, one of the best Contender dealers in the country, is also regarded as one of the best fishermen in South Carolina. Ricky Hobbs has always been a big winner on the circuit, and Cordes is a seasoned veteran of the salt and an executive at Contender Boats. What a team, but who will emerge as team leader?

If they can pull the team together they will be Champions!

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

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.

CAT DADDY BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Myco CAPTAIN: Danny Mathis, Gonzales, Louisiana TEAMMATES: Harry Thomas, Florida 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. Won Yamaha Pro Tournament in Golden Isles and set new SKA Georgia record. Thomas is a top angler from Florida’s west coast.

Together they set the Georgia SKA record last year in Georgia.

Went on to earn 8th overall in the Pros last year. Hard working, hard charging team!

CRAWFISH BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Kenny Crawford, Fernandina Beach, Florida TEAMMATES: Cindy Crawford, Florida Matthew Farlow, Florida Robbie Farlow, Florida Ronnie Broach, South Carolina Bill Walsh, Florida Al Morris, Florida John Giese, Florida Tom Fencl, Florida

SPONSORS: Contender, Yamaha, Raymarine.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Kenny was the Division 5 winner in ‘93, 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 Haps in ‘07. In ‘08 they won the St. Mary’s Saltwater Classic. In ‘09 they chalked up the Kingbuster and went on to win Division 5 again. 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.

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2010

Yamaha Pro Tour

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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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CRAWGATOR BOAT BRAND: Invincible MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Myco CAPTAIN: Bill Butler, Belle Chasse, Louisiana TEAMMATES: Michael Butler, Louisiana Steve Jenkins, Louisiana Alex Lipworth, Florida 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 loose enthusiasm. Finished 5th in Nationals in ‘09 & won the Golden Meadow Tarpon Rodeo. They could be the most consistent team ever to fish the tour. Will be Champions soon!

DOS AMIGOS BOAT BRAND: Cape Horn MOTORS: Suzuki TRAILER: Starline CAPTAIN: Chad Kirby, Conroe, Texas TEAMMATES: Craig Price, Texas Bobby Schoenfeld, Texas Clint Green, Texas Kevin Louis, Texas SPONSORS: CDM Resource Management, Air-X-Changers, Spitzer Industries, Inc. Savage Rods, Accurate Reels, AFW, Busha Boat Works, Kirbys Lone Staar Smokehouse.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Another homogeneous of talent from the great state of Texas. They will do well because of Schoenfeld who has been a regular on the Pro Tour.

Others have talent but Schoenfeld knows the geography better than anyone on the team. Schoenfeld’s Lured Away team was a perennial winner on the tour before team broke up. Don’t count this team out!

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.

Finished 2nd place in Little River and 3rd place in Nationals in ’09.

He joined the Pro ranks last year for a run at the other title, “Angler of the Year.” Has got a good shot especially with the team he has!

EREN’S ADDICTION TOO BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Magic Tilt CAPTAIN: Jack Bracewell, Summerville, South Carolina.

TEAMMATES: Eren Bracewell, South Carolina Randy Wirth, South Carolina Amelia Wirth, South Carolina

SPONSOR: Tailwalker Marine ACCOMPLISHMENTS: In ’07 and ‘08 won Division 3, Class of 23. In ’08 also won second place in Open Class in Division 9. Eren was also South Carolina’s Top Lady Angler in ’07 and ’08. In ’08 Jack won the prestigious SKA Director’s Award.

This is a world-class team, which never gives up. Certainly capable of winning any event they enter, including the Pros.

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Yamaha Pro Tour

FISH MEISTER BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: AmeriTrail CAPTAIN: Dean Spatholt, Calabash, North Carolina TEAMMATES: David Haynes, Florida Dennis Watson, North Carolina John Hunt, North Carolina

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.

FISHBOATLOANS.COM / TEAM DONZI BOAT BRAND: Donzi MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Pinnacle CAPTAIN: Dan Upton, N. Carolina TEAMMATES: Ken Upton, North Carolina David Heavenridge, Florida Jim Scharfschwerdt, Florida Courtney Scharfschwerdt, Florida 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 and 8th in the Hardee’s Atlantic Beach tournament. They also currently hold the aggregate record at the Greater Jacksonville KMT set in ‘92, of 108 pounds. They were ranked 18th 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. Combined with the FishBoatLoans.Com team this year. Earned 11th on Pro Tour last year while Team Donzi was 6th. Another great team led

by Upton and Scharfschwerdt. If talent spells success, this team has already won!

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. In ‘08 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.

GETTIN’ JIGGY BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Magic Tilt CAPTAIN: David Braswell, Little River, South Carolina TEAMMATES: Keith Gurganus, South Carolina Robby Dial, South Carolina James Crighton, South Carolina

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: David and his team qualified out of Division 9.

Has the right equipment, great teammates, and most important, has the heart to win. Will learn fast in un-familiar waters. Their wildcard events in familiar waters could keep them near the top going into the final event.

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

TEAM FOOTLOOSE BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Steven Trussell, Pooler, Georgia TEAMMATES: John Trussell, Georgia Lance Irvine, Florida Houston Irvine, Florida

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2009 Pro Tour S

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GOTCHA BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Darren Carter, Jacksonville, Florida TEAMMATES: Roy Boone, Florida Randy Mardant, Florida John Stone, Florida

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Lots of talent on this team. All have their individual credentials but Carter is a leader that can make the team shine which everyone expects to see happen. Lot’s of talk about the quality of this team!

HAULIN ACE BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Mark Strickland, Wilmington, North Carolina TEAMMATES: Pernell Roberts, North Carolina Mike Edwards, 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!

HIGH DEFINITION BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Brian Bailey Sr., Mobile, Alabama TEAMMATES: Brian Bailey, Jr., Alabama Robbie Bush, Alabama Jarrod Gibson, Alabama

SPONSORS: Bailey’s TV, Inc., Bailey Insurance Agency, Sony, Coca Cola, Yamaha, Contender, Loadmaster, Cannon, Avet Reels.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Won Destin, Florida tournament, Seconds in FLW Orange Beach, ADSFR, and 4th and 5th in World Red Snapper Championship. Multiple top ten finishes. One of the top teams to ever fish in Division 7 now turning their sights to the country’s top saltwater fishing honor.

IN THE MOMENT BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Ameritrail CAPTAIN: B.J. Pearson, Jacksonville, Florida TEAMMATES: Carolyn Williams, Florida Chad Branch, Florida Joe Arnold, Florida

SPONSORS: Charter Lakes Marine Insurance, 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.

She finished 4th in Pro’s last year.

Team won Ancient City Kingfish Challenge in ‘09. 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.

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INTENSE BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: AmeriTrail CAPTAIN: Neal Foster, Mobile, Alabama TEAMMATES: Mark Collier, Alabama Josh Collier, Alabama

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: One of the top teams in the upper Gulf. Has won Division 7 plus numerous individual events. Has good equipment, well disciplined, and has the ability to get local knowledge on east coast. When the tour reaches the Gulf legs, the Intense team will shine!

JOHNNY B / MILLENNIUM MARINE BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: John Benkenstein, Rosharon, Texas TEAMMATES: Jason Wagen, Texas Jody Wagen, Texas Johnny Benkenstein Jr., Texas Nick Garthwaite, Texas Jeff Wagen, Texas

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: One of the best two teams to come out of Texas.

The Johnny B has fished all over the upper Gulf and has won or placed in as many tournaments as anyone. The Wagens are a top family team in Texas, also tournament winners. Together should spell success and so far no one wants to bet against them. The shine in the winner’s circle!

KAJUN SPORTSMAN BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Jon Stevens, Golden Meadow, Louisiana TEAMMATES: Anthony Toups, Louisiana Joey Toups, Louisiana Austin Johnson, Louisiana Panky Christen, Louisiana Darrin Waldkoetter, Florida

SPONSORS: Contender, Yamaha ACCOMPLISHMENTS: This team adds a lot of camaraderie and spirit to the Tour. Anthony produces a world-class tournament each year for Division 7 and the Pro’s on Grand Isle, 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. They will be in the top ten when they reach the final event of the year.

KINGSCAPE BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: AmeriTrail CAPTAIN: Todd King, Gulf Breeze, Florida TEAMMATES: Summer King, Florida Chris Schulte, Florida

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: This is another upper Gulf team who has passion and desire to win. Their credentials from Division 7 say they can fish with anyone in the country. It will happen for them. Summer is considered to be in the top ten of lady anglers in the country.

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2010

Yamaha Pro Tour

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KWAZAR BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: AmeriTrail CAPTAIN: Marcus Kennedy, Mobile, Alabama TEAMMATES: Max Williams, Florida 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. David won the Angler of the Year title in 2000.

The team has now set their sites on the title and could do it this year!

MISS KIMBERLY BOAT BRAND: Hydra Sports MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Gary Wammock, Sylvania, Georgia TEAMMATES: Mark Tanner, Georgia Kelvin Parker, Georgia David Rountree, Georgia

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Gary originally began his SKA career with member number 55. Through the years he perfected his skill level and has now joined the Pro ranks.

Georgia teams have long been the backbone of the SKA. If this team becomes cohesive, and they are all well above average anglers, their determination factor should keep them near the top going into the final event.

MISTER MAGOO BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: AmeriTrail CAPTAIN: Pete Harper, Brunswick, Georgia TEAMMATES: Buddy Webb, Georgia Lamar Smith, Georgia Nicole Smith, Georgia Jamie Souter, Mississippi

SPONSORS: Hickory Bluff Marine, South Georgia Tower & Tank Inc., Southern Hardware, Berkley.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Third year on Pro Tour. Has had numerous top twenty finishes. Fishes in Division 4 and has qualified ever year since joining SKA. Finished second three times in ‘09 and ended rookie year in Pros in the top twenty, 16th last year. Has a lot of potential, could be the sleeper of the season!

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., Yamaha, Cannon Downriggers.

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 nine times in a row for the National Championship. They have wins in Frantic Atlantic, Wrightsville Beach, Hilton Head, Topsail Beach, and Sarasota. Earned second in Fourchon, Louisiana Pro event last year. This is one of the oldest fishing teams, in terms of fishing together, on the circuit, and are poised and ready to win the 2010 Top Angler of the Year award.

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NATIVE PREMONITIONS BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Evinrude TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Leon Wilcox, Davie, Florida TEAMMATES: Ted Charles, Florida James Hammond, North Carolina Jimmy Stecki, Florida Todd Nickel, Florida Jamie Heron, Florida Ron Kline, Florida William Templeton, Florida Tristen Wilcox, Florida Tameron Wilcox, Florida Robert Weisburg, Florida

SPONSORS: Evinrude, Simrad, Seminole Tribe of Florida. Seminole Recreation, Seminole Sports Media.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Leon has earned six top ten finishes in just two years. Qualified for the National Championship past three years.

Has extreme confidence plus the team works together. Leon is a smart fisherman and adapts to the environment quickly.

NO MERCY BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Continental CAPTAIN: Gary Ryals, Darien, Georgia TEAMMATES: Shawn Steverson, Georgia Steve Cunningham, Florida John Hall, Georgia Lindsay Duffield, Georgia

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Talent, talent, talent. Lot’s of it, and they have the equipment and resources to be in the hunt when the series hits the final event.

Ryals, Steverson, Cunningham, plus Hall and Duffield all bring a wealth of knowledge to the team.

If they listen to one another this could be the team of the year!

OBX GIRL / TEAM CALCUTTA BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Jim Dupree, Jr., Tarboro, North Carolina TEAMMATES: Dan Dupree, 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.

OCEAN ISLE FISHING CENTER BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Ameritrail CAPTAIN: Brant McMullan, Shallotte, North Carolina TEAMMATES: Barrett McMullan, North Carolina Rube McMullan, Georgia

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! Set the biggest fish SKA record last year in the Championship of 74.1 pounds and won the National Championship title. One of the best teams in the country!

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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 David Matlock, Florida

SPONSORS: Texas Aquatic Harvesting ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Old Blue qualified out of Division 11 on Florida’s west coast. Have finished in top ten in this division every year. A top contender in their rookie season, Jim has surrounded himself with a good team. Earned 14th overall last season. If they pay attention to details, do their homework, and come together as a team they can really do some damage this year.

ON THE BRINK BOAT BRAND: Fountain MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Myco CAPTAIN: Kelley Clements, Richmond Hill, Georgia.

TEAMMATES: Michael Byrd, Georgia Ellis Phillips, Georgia Mike Green Jr., Georgia Lacey Green, Georgia

SPONSORS: Southern Alarm / Brinks Home Security, AT&T Real Yellow Pages, Garden State Tile, StitchN-Print.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: This team finished in the top 5 of Division 3 in ’08 while only fishing three of the five events. Collectively, this relatively new team members 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 FLW as well as one top 10 finish there.

Finished 7th overall last year on the Tour. There’s been many great teams come from Georgia, this is another one of those. Could even be the best!

PAPOTANIC BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Myco CAPTAIN: Jose Reyes, Houston, Texas TEAMMATES: Bill Platt, Texas Marc Bledsoe, Texas Gill Strelec, Jr., Florida Jason Naumann, Florida Dave Marshall, Florida Chase Strelec, Florida Sam Cory, Florida

SPONSORS: Yamaha, Garmin, Contender, Mustad Hooks, American Rodsmith, Costa Del Mar, Lewis Jewelers, Saltwater Sole, Accurate Reels, Bass Pro Shops.

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. Gill and Jason should give them experience on the east coast and Jose will keep the team cohesive and in focus. Has great credibility and super sponsors!

PROMARINEUSA.COM / HANNON’S CANNON BOAT BRAND: Invincible MOTORS: 1-Mercury, 1-Yamaha, 1- Suzuki TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Kevin Hannon, Seminole, Florida TEAMMATES: Jim Naset, Florida Shannon Armstrong, Florida Rick Cook, Florida Chris Blackwell, Florida Steve Rowley, 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. Finished 4th overall on Pro Tour in ‘07 and 11th in ‘08, 15th in ‘09. 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.

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PROMARINEUSA.COM / KINGPIN BOAT BRAND: Jupiter MOTORS: Evinrude TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Ken Dellane, St. Petersburg, Florida TEAMMATES: Chad Hickman, Florida Jimmy Cope, Florida Chris Terry, Florida Chris Geschke, Florida Gary Hickman, Florida Brad Hickman, Florida

SPONSORS: ProMarineUSA.Com, Gulf Coast Auto Body and Service, Advanced Water Filtration.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Ken has been a perennial winner in SKA’s Division 6. Ken fished with other teams also but this is his first run at the National title in his own boat.

Ken has found a good cohesive team that also has talent. There may be better teams fishing the Pro’s this year but none with the determination of this team. Watch for their boat name atop leader boards this season!

RAT PAK BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: AmeriTrail CAPTAIN: Darren Ratley, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina TEAMMATES: John Mott, South Carolina Jay Robertson, South Carolina

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. Have 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. Earned 10th overall last year. Has to be one of the most consistent teams to ever fish SKA competitive events. This could be their year!

ROCK DOC BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Magic Tilt CAPTAIN: Bob Wiggins, Charleston, South Carolina TEAMMATES: Dowell Coker, South Carolina Bryan Baxter, South Carolina

SPONSORS: Contender, Tailwalker Marine, Yamaha, Cannon Downriggers, Yeti Coolers, Sperry, Avet Reels, Cape Lookout Lures, Costa DelMar, Groucho’s Deli, Carolina Concrete Systems, Blue Marlin Chronicles, Atlantis Weather Gear.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Bob is a superb fisherman with over seven National Championship invites. Has earned a 6th place and 11th place finish in the Championship, plus several senior angler and lady angler honors in Divisional competition. Bob has put together a very impressive team. They’ll still be in the hunt when we get to the final event and don’t be surprised if they walk away with number one honors. One of the best in the country!

SEA CRUISER BOAT BRAND: Wellcraft MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Magic Tilt CAPTAIN: Don Jackson Sr. TEAMMATES: Donnie Jackson, Jr., Louisiana David Wilson, Louisiana Russell Frazier, Louisiana Russell Webb, Mississippi

SPONSORS: Magic Tilt Trailers, Lowrance Electronics.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Don Jackson is another upper Gulf fisherman who commands a lot of respect. Has won and placed in many events and understands the east coast fishery. Was a top contender on the FLW tour, and is still that on the SKA trails. All this experience will pay off!

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SEA QUAIL BOAT BRAND: Pro-Line MOTORS: Evinrude TRAILER: Magic Tilt CAPTAIN: Inman Coleman, Twin City, Georgia TEAMMATES: Tommy Lane, Georgia Keith Flowers, Georgia Traci Flowers, Georgia Joseph Davis, Georgia Bailey Alsobrooks, Georgia Curtis Dickson, Georgia Penny Morris, Georgia

SPONSORS: Coleman Game Birds and Hunting Reserve, Sea Quail Charters, Southern Structural Construction, Hawk and Associates.

Southern Modular.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: An eight time Nationals qualifier out of Division 4 and Pros. 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.

Presents themselves extremely well and everyone is their friend.

Has lots of potential for sponsors now and those to come!

SECONDS 2 SPARE BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Boatmaster CAPTAIN: Scott Rush, Estero, Florida TEAMMATES: Gifford Kline, Florida Mike Gavala, Florida Rick Dean, Florida Scott Rush Sr., Florida

SPONSORS: San Carlos Marine, Native Fresh Foods, Cape Coral Screen and Vinyl.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: This team carries the ’08 big fish of the year, a 64.74.

Member of the 50 and 60 pound club, was Division’s 9 and 10 Open Class Champions and has five Divisional wins in last 3 years.

They lay claim to over 40 inshore and offshore tournament wins.

The Pro title is what they are now determined to win!

SKIN DEEP BOAT BRAND: Invincible MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Custom CAPTAIN: Steve Glanz MD, Delray Beach, Florida TEAMMATES: Jamie Ralph, Florida Ryan Carr, Florida Bob Barus, Florida Kevin Ebersold, Florida Jonathan Matthews, Florida

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Joined SKA in ’09 and qualified for Championship where they finished 13th. Came right back and won season opener in Key West this year. Could be one of the best teams fishing the tour this year. Has determination!

STEEL FISHING BOAT BRAND: Wellcraft MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Road King CAPTAIN: Randy Spainhour, Southport, North Carolina TEAMMATES: Jack Woods, North Carolina James “Buster” Gunter, South Carolina

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Charter Member of SKA. Numerous wins and top ten finishes. All three members on the team have serious credentials they earned over the years. Jack is a two time National Champion, Randy and Buster are perennial tournament winners. They are poised, ready, and have the skill level and determination to exit the year with the SKA’s top ranking. They are winners!

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STRIKE ZONE BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Dave Workman Jr., Jacksonville, Florida TEAMMATES: Rick Stinson, Florida Paul Dozier, 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

THE REEL OFFICE BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Jeff Keeton, Yulee, Florida TEAMMATES: Vicki Keeton, Florida Colin Williams, Florida J.J. Strempel, Florida

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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. Owns Strike Zone Fishing in Jacksonville, Florida. He is a very accomplished angler. Stinson has learned from the master and is a tremendous asset to the team.

Always the team to beat in any tournament entered.

THAT’S MY DOG BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Forrest Taylor, Shallotte, North Carolina TEAMMATES: Conrad Lau, Florida William Taylor, Sr., North Carolina Richard McRae, 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.

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 3rd in ’08 in the Pros. This consistency will give them the only title they haven’t achieved, maybe this year.

SPONSORS: SCE Corporation, Yellowfin ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Started fishing SKA in ’09 and earned 2nd in Division 1, plus Top Lady and Top Junior honors. Won Sneads Ferry and Onslow Bay Tournaments.

This team has good skills, determination, and are very respected by their peers.

THE REEL WON BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Loadmaster CAPTAIN: Robert Woithe, Sr., Placida, Florida TEAMMATES: Susan Woithe, Florida Bruce Woithe, Florida Bob Woithe PhD, Florida Rob Woithe, Florida

SPONSORS: Yamaha, Ingman Marine ACCOMPLISHMENTS: This is the top family fishing team in the country and their accomplishments leave little doubt. They have earned top ten finishes in Ft. Pierce, Savannah, Golden Isles, and many others.

They have earned second and third place finishes in Georgetown and Susan won the ‘00 Lady Angler of the Year award. Susan and Bob have both earned Senior Angler of the Year titles and have numerous titles in Divisional competition. Now the team adds a third generation Woithe, Rob, to the team and in his very first event in Sarasota, he won Top Junior angler honors. They set a standard for our sport!

2010

Yamaha Pro Tour

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Our anti-reflective coatings are state-of-the-art. Seven coatings of magnesium hexafluoride are thermally applied by a unique vacuum process to the inside of the lens to ensure absolute consistency. They absorb the “bounce-back” of glare and UV light.

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We offer you the best polarization and UV protection available on the market. The unique construction of our lens blocks all the UV light up to 420 manometers.

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Yamaha Pro Tour

2010

Ocean Waves Sunglasses Toll-Free: 800/749.9920 www.oceanwaves.com 35

TIDELINE BOAT BRAND: Wellcraft MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Road King CAPTAIN: Dieter Cardwell, Winston Salem, North Carolina TEAMMATES: Kevin Alley, North Carolina Mike Lundy, North Carolina

SPONSORS: Cardwell Medical, Raymarine.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Top competitor since ’91. Numerous wins and top ten finishes including U.S.Open, Panama City, and Jensen Beach.

Could very well be classified as the top team in North Carolina, and certainly in the top ten in the country. Dieter and Mike have been fishing together for a long time and knows what the other thinks. A very important factor.

Has determination to win and skill level to make it happen.

UNDER ARMOUR / CALIENTE BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Mercury TRAILER: AmeriTrail CAPTAIN: Arik Bergerman, St. Petersburg, Florida TEAMMATES: Aaron Salvant, Florida Brian Brandano, Florida Brian Hasson, Florida Randy Keys, Florida Jen Schmid, Florida Lark Wallace, Florida Mark Willis, Florida James Addison, Florida

SPONSORS: Under Armour, Yellowfin, Mercury, First Choice Marine, Dogfish, Ocean Tamer, Sign Zoo. ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Loaded with talent, this is the melding of 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 Beach 3 times. He finished in the top ten in every Pro event last year and finished 9th overall in the Pros. Keys is a past National Champion and is considered to be among the top ten king fishermen in the country. The two Brian’s add extrem talent with a high degree of determination.

The mix works well together, they will be in the hunt all season!

WHIPLASH BOAT BRAND: Wellcraft MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Reel Extreem CAPTAIN: Neil Nix, Okeechobee, Florida TEAMMATES: John Crane, Florida Eric Kindell, Florida Danny Marsocci, Florida Blake Marsocci, Florida

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: This is the old Sake’ team which did very well on the Tour. Changed name to Whiplash in ’10. Nix and Marsocci have been fishing together since’97. Kindell joined team in ’00. Blake started as a junior angler and has continued to fish the team. Earned a fifth at the ’09 Key West event. Has 3 SKA wins and numerous top ten finishes and is considered to be among the best fishing the Tour. Member of the 50 pound club.

WILD RIDE BOAT BRAND: Wellcraft MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Road King CAPTAIN: Randy Griffin Jr., Hampstead, North Carolina TEAMMATES: Craig Hughes, North Carolina Shayna Griffin, North Carolina

SPONSORS: Wellcraft, Raymarine, Yamaha.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Since ‘02 Randy and his team have racked up three firsts and six seconds in professional competition. The amazing thing is that most of these were in un-familiar waters.

Like Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, South Carolina, and North Carolina. They have more than earned the respect of the fishing fraternity and will be in the top ten at the end of the year if they don’t win it all, which they certainly are favored to do so.

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2010

Yamaha Pro Tour

There’s a seat to the beach waiting for you.

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Yamaha Pro Tour

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2010

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WON-UP BOAT BRAND: Yellowfin MOTORS: Yamaha TRAILER: Owens and Sons CAPTAIN: Tony Ross, Beaufort, North Carolina TEAMMATES: Ricky Avery, North Carolina Jay Feimister, North Carolina Leon Moore, New York John Kinlaw, North Carolina

ACCOMPLISHMENTS: The Won-Up team takes their fishing very seriously. They have to, thanks to their vast number of fans who follow their exploits via their web site. The right equipment, the right mind set, and you have the formula for gigantic successes.

This is the team to watch this year. They’ve smelled victory and they’re hungry to prove their worth. Watch them climb the ladder of success. They’re another of those North Carolina teams who won’t settle for second best!

TEAM ZEBRA BOAT BRAND: Contender MOTORS: Yamaha CAPTAIN: David Tedder, High Point, North Carolina TEAMMATES: Jeff Smith, North Carolina Brian Shore, North Carolina Bobby Lovingood, North Carolina

SPONSORS: Zebra Environmental & Industrial Services ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Started in SKA competition last year. Won Atlantic Beach KMT in ’09 plus earned 6th in Division 1 last year. Teammates have lots of experience. Enough to help David win the title? Don’t bet against them!

2010 SCHEDULE THREE FIXED EVENTS Jensen Beach, Florida April 29-May 1, 2010

St. Simon’s Island, Georgia August 12-14, 2010

Ft. Pierce, Florida November 1-3, 2010

PLUS WILDCARD EVENTS Wildcard Events are SKA Divisional tournaments (excluding Jensen Beach and St. Simon’s). Teams can fish up to ten, however only the best four days count. Two-day events count as two separate days of scoring.

For a two-day event, teams can choose to fish the first day, second day, or both days. The team must, however, let SKA officials know its intentions before the start of each day’s fishing and must declare, prior to fishing a tournament, which days will count towards Wildcard points.

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2010

Yamaha Pro Tour

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Yamaha Pro Tour

2010

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3rd | Team Simrad | 26 5.03 agg.

g.

2nd | Crikey | 267.09 ag 40

2010

Yamaha Pro Tour

F

or the second time in the past four years, Ron Mitchell’s Bandit team earned sport fishing’s most coveted title— Angler of the Year. His team now joins a very elite group made up of threetime winner, Dave Workman, Jr. and two-time winner Clayton Kirby.

Evinrude powered Invincible.

Andre and company won the first leg of the Tour in Key West plus earned a tenth in Fourchon. Andre is considered to be a world-class bass fisherman and a redfish pro. His wife, Kim, is at the top of her game on the women’s Bass trail and she was the first woman to ever fish the Bassmaster’s Classic. Now each have the opportunity to add another title. Kim was the Pro Top Lady Angler for ‘09.

In their seven fish stringer this year they scaled a 55.35 and a 45.55.

This is the best husband and wife team fishing in our sport today and the whole team is to be congratulated for a superb season!

Ron, from Port St. Lucie, Florida, and his team of Will Geraghty, Carl Carder, and the Butlers, David and Brad, scored a seven fish aggregate of 270.24 points. That equates to an average of 38.61 pounds per fish.

Certainly not the best average we’ve 4th Place | Co nched Out | 25 seen, including Bandit’s ’06 win where re 5.18 they scored a 40.45 average, but it certainly beat Liquid Fire’s average last ast year of 36.60 pounds per fish. This was a completely different team than in 2006. Only two things were the same: e: Contender Boats and Ron Mitchell.

Fishing a Suzuki powered Contender, Ron and the team had three kings in the forties, the biggestt being a 46.84. Their finishes included d a third in Key West, ninth in Jensen Beach, and finally a seventh in Fourchon. But in order to be the best in the country you must be consistent and that’s exactly what the Bandit team did. That is the mark of true Champions, team ons, each te eam member in his own right. olau | 254.45 Ron was not short 5th Place | Ko of talent on this year’s team. All are veterans and brought added value to their successes.

Ron has a real knack for creating just the right mix.They are certainly the e best team fishing today!

Wear your crown well, gentlemen. m For 2010 The Bandit team is sponsored by Suzuki ts, Outboards, Invincible Boats, Sperry Boat Shoes, Accurate ate Reels, Cannon Downriggers, ers, Ocean Tamer Bean Bag, Myco Trailer, Ande Line, and nd Raymarine The P Pro’s the ‘09 season weighed Th ’ in i th i h d tten Electronics. kings in the 50-pound range and 40 in the Newbie, Andre Moore, his highly forties. The tour not only brings out the publicized wife, Kim Bain-Moore, plus Glyn best in a team, but also forces you to target Austin, John Strudel, and Joshua Herren, and scale big kings. The SKA Pro Tour Trail earned second place with a seven fish affords you that opportunity. stringer of 267.09 pounds. The Moore’s Mark Maus and his son Dillon, Dowling are from Alabaster, Alabama and fish an Yamaha Pro Tour

2010

Granberry, and Sean Edmunds, put together a seven fish stringer totaling 265.03. Their seven fish included a second place in Jensen Beach and the same in Little River. That stringer included a 53.41-pound king.

Mark has been working this circuit for several years and has always been in the hunt. This was a very good season however the team had six fish in the thirties. One of those needed to be in the forties to earn the title. However, where Crikey had two fish in the high twenties, Team Simrad was a little more consistent.

Mark will be a Champion before he hangs up his rods and reels.

He fished a Mercury powered Yellowfin this season.

Florida team We finally have a South Florid that had a shot at the title. Core Corey McBride, fishing the Mercury M p powered SSea Hunter na named Co Conched Out, ea earned fourth pla place with 25 255.18 points.

Co Corey and his tea team of Ryan Mc McBride, Greg and Chase Has Haskin, David Kalil Kalil, and Gary McB McBride, had a fifty ft and two forti es to their credit credi and they forties fishe shed in locations they’ve never been to before. The nev team also fostered our Top Junior Angler, Chase Haskin.

Jun TThe fifth place finisher is tthe Mercury powered Fo Fountain team of Conrad Lau an and Dell Williamson. With th the duo were Rocky Cusack, G Gill Strelec, Jr., and Rad Lau, th three greats in our sport.

TThe Koolau is a dynamite tteam who, for reasons unbeknown to many of us, u has not won a title yet. But they will!

This year they scored 254.45 points iincluding l di three th of their seven fish stringer in the forties. Conrad retains the title of being the most analytical captain fishing the Tour today. He was also the Top Senior Angler.

The difference between fifth place and first after scaling the teams’ best seven out 41

of a possible ten fish is only 15.79 pounds.

That breaks down to just 3.16 pounds per event.

Fishing the Pros is definitely not for the weak of heart. This is without a doubt the toughest but most rewarding level of fishing you could ever be involved with!

Sixth place fell to Dan and Ken Upton’s Team Donzi. The Uptons, plus two-time past National Champion Jack Wood, David Heavenridge, and Matt Davis, posted a seven fish 253.39 score. They scaled two kings in the forties.

Kelley Clements had a wonderful season earning seventh with 250 points. That included the biggest king in the Pro’s this year, a 58.58. Kelley’s Mercury powered Fountain team included Tracy Shaw, Ellis Phillips, Bob Massey, Rusty Rogers, Michael Mosely, and Phil Bowdle. Now that this team has their feet wet, it is not only our opinion but also, that of many, Kelley will win the title soon. His obsession will not be denied!

Danny Mathis, Harry Thomas, and Bobby Schoenfeld, won the Golden Isles leg of the Tour and went on to finish eighth overall.

They too had a Georgia record fifty-pound king plus one in the forties. The Cat Daddy team scored a seven fish, 249.9 aggregate

42

and fish a Mercury powered Yellowfin.

Arik Bergerman came to the final event in Little River with one objective—emerge as the National Champion. He failed, however he never quit, never showed depression, or had a bad word to say about his competitors. He is one class act and with his Caliente team will be a Champion soon. He and John Smith Sr., Paul Rogers, Brian Hasson, and Mike Howes scaled a seven fish aggregate of 249.15 which included two fifty-pound kings. If they concentrate on getting their average up a little they will be in the winner’s circle!

Rounding out the top ten was the fishing team, Rat Pak captained by Darren Ratley. Darren and his Mercury powered Yellowfin team of John Mott, James Stecki, John McNeill, and Jay Robertson weighed in seven kings totaling 244.68 pounds.

Now let’s look at the difference between first and tenth, 270.24 and 244.68.

That’s 25.56 pounds or 5.11 pounds per tournament. That’s superior competition!

Congratulations to all the teams who fished the Yamaha Professional Kingfish Tour. You are the best competitors for many reasons including your ability to fish unfamiliar waters each year and still remain very competitive.

2010

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 ‘09 RON MITCHELL . . . . . . . . 270.24

Yamaha Pro Tour

Top Lady Pro Kim Bain-Moore Crikey

Yamaha Pro Tour

Top Senior Pro Conrad Lau Koolau

2010

Top Junior Pro Chase Haskin Conched out

43

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2010

Yamaha Pro Tour

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