Americana Outdoors E-Magazine - June 2021

JUNE 2021 EDITION

GARMIN ENTERS THE POWERSPORTS MARKET

THE 2021 RANGER BOATS EXPERIENCE

POND FISHING GEAR

GARMIN ENTERS THE POWERSPORTS MARKET WITH OFF-ROAD PRODUCT ASSORTMENT

Garmin International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ: GRMN), announced its entrance into the powersports market with a strong trio of solutions to help recreational off-roaders roam the unknown with confidence. With the new rugged Tread powersport navigator with Group Ride Radio, Garmin PowerSwitch digital switch box, and the BC 40 wireless camera with tube mount, riders can hop on their side-by-side, ATV, or snowmobile to navigate rolling sand dunes, wild forest trails in the rain, or cold snow tracks in the mountains with confidence. As off-roaders plow through challenging terrain, the weather resistant Tread easily helps riders navigate trails and recognize land boundaries. If a group joins along for the ride, Tread’s Group Ride Radio can help keep track of their locations while the push-to-talk fist mic allows friends to stay in communication without the need for cellular coverage. Off-roaders can then use the Garmin PowerSwitch to control their vehicle’s 12-volt accessories from Tread’s glove-friendly display, conveniently activating whip lights, air compressors, differential locks and more. By

adding the BC 40 wireless camera to their side- by-side’s tube frame, flat panel, or roll cage, riders can pair with Tread for a clear view of scenery and surrounding obstacles on the navigator’s screen. “Garmin is stepping into the powersports market in a big way with a robust assortment of products designed specifically for the needs of powersports enthusiasts,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales. “With Garmin’s new powersports lineup, riders have more freedom to maneuver off-road while staying connected with friends, ultimately enhancing every off-road adventure.”

STAY CONNECTED

America that surpasses the status quo with a comprehensive and rich mapping experience. Riders can seek challenging dirt trails and tap into U.S. Forest Service roads and Motor Vehicle Use Maps for full sized 4x4s, ATVs, side-by-sides and motorcycles. Tread also comes preloaded with public land boundaries for national forests, wilderness areas, Bureau of Land Management, and even private land boundaries and land owner information for parcels greater than 4 acres. In addition, riders can download high-resolution BirdsEye Satellite Imagery directly to Tread via Wi- Fi to receive vivid overhead views of the land and surroundings with no annual subscription. CUSTOMIZE AN ADVENTURE Easily pair Tread, a compatible Garmin navigator, or a smartphone with the Garmin PowerSwitch and gain control over a vehicle’s 12 volt accessories – up to six outputs of up to 30 amps each. The weather resistant box provides easy installation procedures and the ability to customize virtual switch panels with labels, icons and channel groups, and manipulate controls for dimming and flashing alerts on the navigator’s display. THE VIGILANT EYE And the off-road adventure doesn’t stop there. Users can also attach the BC 40 wireless camera to an off-road vehicle to see surroundings on the navigator’s display. The battery-powered camera can last up to 3 months on a single charge and transmit up to 25-feet to provide wide, quality footage. Rain or shine, the weatherproof1 camera can withstand compromising weather on the trail. Available now, the Tread powersport navigator has a suggested retail price of $799.99; the Garmin PowerSwitch has a suggested retail price of $499.99; and the BC 40 wireless camera has a suggested retail price of $149.99 (all sold separately). To learn more about these off-road products, click here.

As riders venture the unknown, Tread’s MURS (Multi-Use Radio Service) system – better known as the Group Ride Radio – ensures riders don’t miss a beat with the ability to track and communicate with up to 20 riders in their group. Keep track of friends on Tread’s map display and use the push-to-talk fist mic to talk with friends in the group. Alternatively, riders can pair Tread with their compatible Bluetooth®-enabled helmet or headset for hands-free voice communication. What’s more, riders can pair Tread with most of Garmin’s inReach® satellite communicators to stay in touch globally via two-way text messaging, access to weather and crucial interactive SOS. And thanks to the all-new Treadô mobile4 app, users can easily import/export GPX files, access live weather, canned text messages and sync trip data across all devices.

OWN THE LANDSCAPE

With Tread’s highly detailed mapping options, off- roadersandtrailseekerscanowntheirsurroundings with preloaded topographic mapping of North

POND FISHING GEAR BASS PRO SHOPS JOHNNY MORRIS SIGNATURE SERIES BAITCAST COMBO

This reel’s compact ergonomics and the rod’s light-as-air construction balance out perfectly, for near-effortless efficiency and feel.

ROD FEATURES • Carbon Coil Technology • RT4 Graphite blank • Durable Fuji FaZlite guides

REEL FEATURES • Rigid 1-piece aluminum frame • Strong carbon fiber side covers • Double-anodized, machined-aluminum V-spool • Titanium nitride-coated line guide • Aluminum crankshaft, brass main gear • Premium 10-bearing system

ELITE 3700 TACKLE BAG • Premium Bag for the Avid Angler • Rip-Stop Main Construction • Rugged EVA Molded Base • Water Resistant • Pliers Holder • Comes with Heavy Duty Shoulder Strap • Includes 7-3700 Utility Boxes

THE 2021 RANGER BOATS EXPERIENCE The Americana Outdoors camera teams were on hand to capture the action as VIP guests experience first class hospitality at Big Cedar Lodge, as well as, an exclusive tour of the Ranger Boats research and manufacturing facilities in Flippin, AR, to see exactly what sets Ranger Boats above the rest before going trout fishing for half a day on the famous White River. For more information on Ranger Boats visit Rangerboats. com For more information on Big Cedar Lodge click here.

If that wasn’t enough the anglers were treated to a two day pro-am fishing event with Bass Pro Shops-Cabela’s and Ranger sponsored professional fisherman on the waters of Table Rock Reservoir. Outfitted with tournament-grade clothing and tackle it was a wide open competition with touring pros like Clark Wendlandt, Jordan Lee, Todd Auten, Stephen Browning as well as television host Wade Middleton as the teams competed to see who could bring in the heaviest catches. Stay tuned to Americana Outdoors for a complete episode on this great fishing adventure!

Clark Wendlandt with VIP Ranger Experience Angler

Todd Auten (Left) with VIP Ranger Experience Angler

Jordan Lee (Left), VIP Ranger Experience Angler (Middle), Stephen Browning (Right)

Jordan Lee (Left) with VIP Ranger Experience Anglers

Todd Auten, ClarkWendlandt, VIP Ranger Experience Angler, Stephen Browning, Wade Middleton, and Jordan Lee

Wade Middleton (Center) and VIP Ranger Experience Anglers

STEALTH CAM LAUNCHES ENHANCED FUSION X WIRELESS CAM

WhenStealthCam®set out tobuildabetterwireless trail camera, they began with the challenges faced by hunters disappointedwith conventional wireless camera technology. Reliable performance, ease of connectivity, simple operation, affordable data plans, and the need for quality customer service ranked highest on the agenda. In 2020, Stealth Cam introduced the Fusion wireless camera. Throughout the year, we listened closely to our customers and vowed to make necessary improvements. You asked, they listened and now the Fusion X truly takes wireless cameras to the next level! Through in-depth field evaluations, valuable feedback, and expert analysis from their partners and hunting enthusiasts, the Stealth Cam engineers have refined the Fusion X platform and technology. These updates allow the Fusion X to deliver top-notch performance and operation, separating it from the competition. Topping the list of upgrades is a significant improvement to the image quality which means even sharper, more detailed photos to meet your expectations! In addition to higher quality photos,

you can now utilize video downloads to the app that has a 720p resolution on your SD card at 30FPS. Taking it even further, you can also preview the video captures through the new app in a GIF format (640 x 360 – beginning, middle, and end of video frames)! For coverage and convenience, the Fusion X will continue to run on very budget-friendly data plans, starting as low as $4 per month with the first month provided at the unlimited level completely FREE! If you choose to stick with the unlimited plan, you can pay as low as $15 a month and that includes the new GIF video feature at no additional cost. The Fusion X will be powered by the all-new Stealth Cam Command Pro app, giving hunters access to the Fusion X anytime, anywhere. The new app is extremely easy to set up and use. With a modernized user interface and advanced software, the Command Pro app will allow hunters to unlock the full potential of Stealth’s Fusion X wireless camera, including high resolution download capabilities, night color AI (bring color to black and white images), custom tags and filters, and a global gallery to view all gallery images in one album! For more details about the Fusion X wireless camera and all of our other new products for 2021, please click here.

Fusion Wireless Cameras take the guesswork out of cellular activation and will have you transmitting images in amatter of minutes with their quick scan QR setup. Combined with Stealth Cam’s new data plans, Fusion offers affordable options for every budget & need. Available on AT&T & Verizon.

Smith & Wesson announced that it has expanded its GUNSMARTS video series with over thirty new educational videos for both new and experienced firearms owners. Hosted by industry experts Ken Scott, Julie Golob, and Jerry Miculek, Smith & Wesson’s GUNSMARTS Series 2 covers a comprehensive set of topics that include firearms education, shooting tips, gear recommendations, and more – all in a simple, inviting manner. New GUNSMARTS Series 2 content is hosted on YouTube and will be released weekly throughout the summer, starting on June 1st. To watch Smith & Wesson’s GUNSMARTS Series 2, click here .

Silencer Bluetooth RECHARGEABLE

CLICK HERE

PERFORMANCE THAT ELEVATES EXPECTATIONS

V6 V MAX SHO ® SERIES

The second it hit the water, the V6 V MAX SHO® defied all expectations. It fused four-stroke efficiency with a hole shot that outperformed two strokes. Competitive fishing had never seen anything like it— and the V MAX SHO quickly became the power of choice for anglers on the circuit. More than a decade later, it’s still going strong—fresh off powering its fourth consecutive Bassmaster® Angler of the Year title in 2020. It’s still a competitive choice, and it’s getting even better. The V6 V MAX SHO now offers 40 percent more charging power, wrapped in a striking, new cowling design. CONVENIENCE & CONTROL CHARGING POWER

The V6 V MAX SHO now produces up to 70 gross amps of charging power. This exciting, 40 percent increase in charging is more than enough juice for your growing array of on-board tech. They can also be equipped with an optional isolator lead to better charge house or trolling batteries. V MAX SHO® SERIES PROPELLERS Designed exclusively for V MAX SHO® V6 20-inch- shaft outboards, V MAX SHO Series propellers are available in one-inch pitch increments from 22 to 27 inches, for fine-tuning wide-open-throttle RPM for tournament-level performance. REAL-TIME PERFORMANCE DATA Optional digital backlit gauges provide real- time outboard performance, boat systems and environmental data at your fingertips. Streamlined displays are designed to withstand the elements and are available in square or round style for single- or multi-engine applications. FAST, EASY TILTING A new, Yamaha exclusive, TotalTilt™ performs a quick, full trim up or down with the fast, double-tap of a button. This makes trailering quick and easy and is handy when a complete up or down tilt is needed.

RELIABILITY & DURABILITY

CLEANER FUEL A large, on-engine water separating fuel filter with a water sensor works in conjuction with Yamaha’s 10-Micron Water Separating Fuel Filter to separate water and contaminants from the fuel before they can reach the outboard’s other filters and fuel injectors. LESS MOVING PARTS A single timing belt uses fewer moving parts for long term reliability. Automatic belt tensioners keep proper belt tension, avoiding adjustments for added convenience. CORROSION PROTECTION Combined with our proprietary alloy (YDC-30), our exclusive Phaze Five™ electro-deposited, anti- corrosive paint system provides a tough, five-layer barrier against corrosion. This protection is standard on all Yamaha V MAX SHO® four-stroke engines. SMOOTH AND QUIET A labyrinth exhaust routes gases through a maze before they exit above the water line through an idle exhause relief outlet. This, combined with a mufflerless design, results in unbelievably smooth and quiet operation, with a pleasing sound of power at idle. PROTECTION AND POWER V MAX SHO® outboards have an exhaust pressure reduction system, which not only helps keep the propeller hub cooled from hot exhaust gases, but also helps provide power by transitioning those gases out of the engine during the critical hole shot and acceleration phases.

POWER & PERFORMANCE

COMPACT & POWERFUL POWERHEAD Plasma-fused sleeveless cylinders are lighter and 60 percent harder than steel. They also allow us to enlarge cylinder bores without increasing their dimensions--which creates 4.2 liters of big-bore displacement, without adding weight. THOUGHTFUL ENGINEERING Smart engineering throughout the V MAX® SHO saves weight, from the cowling to the engine bracket to the lower engine pan. SMART DESIGN Yamaha’s exlusive In-Bank Exhaust System exits downward through the center of the “V” rather than on the exterior side. This increases combustion efficiency, creating more power and torque, and also results in a more compact shape. OVERALL PERFORMANCE This superior design--with individual intake and exhaust camshafts, larger valves than previous designs and four valves per cylinder--deliversmore precise valve timing and more efficient exchange of intake and exhause gases, for responsive power and increased fuel economy. RESPONSIVE THROTTLE Midrange punch and instant throttle response created by Variable Camshaft Timing has to be felt to be believed. FUEL ECONOMY Micro-textured cylinder walls increase breathing efficiencywhile PrecisionMulti-Point Fuel Injection ensures the precise amount of air and fuel necessary for optimum power and fuel efficiency.

FIND A YAMAHA OUTBOARD DEALER CLICK HERE TO

COLLEGE BASS FISHING - THE FOUNDER & THE FUTURE Q&A BUFF® USA recently sat downwithWadeMiddleton, the Founder of the Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship and Ryan Park, an up-and-coming angler competing in the series representing Murray State University. What’s the best part of being in your shoes as tournament director?

Seeing the anglers being able to chase and fulfill dreams after they graduate. As I look back now on over 15 years of doing this it’s amazing to me how many of the kids we’ve met through the series are either fishing at a pro level or working in the industry. I think watching them chase their dreams and feeling like we had a small part in opening doors for them to be able to meet others and chase those dreams has been the most fulfilling part of all the things we’ve done in college fishing. Most unique use of BUFF® Multifunctional Headwear you’ve used one for? The higher end quality of the product. By that I mean the fabric and how well it stands up over time. So many of the cheaper models/brands out there are thin, stretch out and basically fall apart. I’ve still got several of the Original models that BUFF® created for college anglers and they are just as functional now as the day I got them. Morning or evening bite? Morning Large mouth or Smallmouth? Large mouth Favorite or unique on-the-water snack? Cold Smoked Venison Sausage Longest run just to catch a fish during a tournament? 2 plus hours It’s 2040, will your bass boat have an electric motor? Probably so or I’ll be sitting on a dock retired drowning a minnow.

Wade Middleton - Founder

What inspired you to develop the Collegiate Bass Fishing Series? I’ve been asked this before and to be honest it was a more of a group of us that felt that there was a hole in the fishing world or shall I say a lack of opportunities for anglers in that age class to be able to compete against others of the same age. It made sense to tie it into the collegiate landscape so that like minded types could come together and both compete and enjoy fishing. As time progressed I just sort of ran with the concept and worked to create a series that anyone who fishes it felt it was worth their time.

ever master it, but I sure will try!

Do you plan to make a career in fishing in some way, or will it remain just a favorite hobby? The plan is, always has been and always will be to make fishing a career. This all started when I was a little kid. I went over to the local neighborhood retention pond with a friend of mine, and he let me use his fishin rod for one cast. I caught a three pounder on my first cast ever which started a never-ending obsession with bass fishing. I am lucky enough to know what I wanted to do with my life from such a young age. I hope that one day Collegiate Bass can use me an example of “he fished our series and look where he is at now!” Most unique use of Buff® ultifunctional headwear you’ve used one for? During the first day of the Collegiate Bass National Championship on Pickwick lake this past summer there was a line of super heavy rain showers about the mid lake area. We had found a very good spot in practice, so my partner had the hammer down on his Phoenix, racing other teams to the spot. That did not stop when we hit the line of rain. I was getting pelted with rain in the face at 75 mph, which does not feel great. While we were running, I took the BUFF® Original I was wearing on my neck and cut two eye holes for my sunglasses and put it over my whole face so I could see what was going on around me while keeping my face protected. I’m sure other college teams we passed were confused about my choice of headwear! Largemouth or smallmouth? smallmouth Favoriteoruniqueon-the-watersnack? pistachios Longest run just to catch a fish during a tournament? 50 miles It’s 2040, will your bass boat have an electric motor? yes Morning or evening bite? morning

Ryan Park - The Future

What does the collegiate bass fishing series offer that personal fishing doesn’t? I consider personal fishing more for relaxation and learning, but I have always needed the thrill of competition. To me, that is the biggest thing that collegiate bass offers. College fisherman travel from all over the country to compete in the Collegiate Bass series. That creates a high level of competition unlike other series. Collegiate bass offers the building blocks to start a career in the fishing industry. The series is exceptionally good at getting you exposure to different companies and sponsors. It was through Collegiate Bass that I was put in contact with TacticamFish-I, a company I am partnering up with for this upcoming season! Other than becoming a better angler, what else have you learned through competing in this series? Spending time traveling around fishing on the Collegiate Bass series has taught me many things. Some of the most important things I have learned would be how to network with people at tournaments, whether that be fellow anglers or representatives of the companies that sponsor the series. I have learned other things as well, such as what kind of stuff you need to pack for a weeklong fishing trip, how to conserve money while you are on the road, and how to find the best Air BnBs in the area! Traveling for the series has been quite the learning experience for me. I don’t believe I will

WOLVERINE RMAX4 1000 LIMITED EDITION

LIMITED EDITION, MAXIMUM ADVENTURES. Feature‑rich and power‑packed for max comfort and versatility with best‑in‑class power delivery, FOX® iQS suspension technology, fully integrated stereo system, and more cabin comfort touch points than any other vehicle in its class.

VERSATILITY FOR CARGO

The Wolverine® RMAX™4 1000 Limited Edition is one of the most versatile machines in the two-row side-by-side market. In addition to its ability to comfortably seat one, two, three or four adults, including cargo, the Wolverine RMAX4 1000 Limited Edition features an ingenious storage system for cargo flexibility. By folding and sliding the rear seats forward, the rear area expands and securely transports up to 600 pounds of cargo with its multiple steel tie-down points. The Wolverine RMAX4 1000 Limited Edition also features a built in 2-inch receiver to tow a full 2,000 pounds when needed.

A new multi-piece front bumper gives the Wolverine RMAX4 1000 Limited Edition a stylish new look. With two welded steel trailering tie-down points, factory-installed WARN® VRX 4500-pound winch, accessory brush guard, and accessory pod light-mounting brackets, you’ll confidently be able to take on the toughest terrain.

AN IMPOSING FIGURE WITH NEXT GENERATION STYLE

TheWolverine RMAX4 1000 Limited Edition wraps next-level capability with an imposing stance, highlighted by aggressive front end styling and rugged tires. The all-new stealthy front LED headlights and “evil eye” marker lights give this new generation a distinctive look on the trail, and the LED taillight, brake light, and reverse light provide added visibility. With its eye-catching colors, the Wolverine RMAX4 1000 Limited Edition’s appearance is only rivaled by its own trail-dominating performance.

ROOMY FOUR-PERSON CABIN

The Wolverine RMAX4 1000 Limited Edition offers comfortable, secure seating for four full-sized adults with comfortable handholds and six-position seat belts for each seat. The second row is raised for excellent visibility, so everyone gets a great view of their surroundings.

ADVANCED, COMFORT-FOCUSED IQS SUSPENSION

The all-new advanced and heavy-duty suspension is designed to provide maximum articulation in low-speed situations, a balanced ride feeling when trail riding, and the highest level of bottoming resistance with a higher-speed damping-feel when maneuvering the Wolverine RMAX4 1000 Limited Edition. The wide-arc A-arms paired with the FOX® 2.0 iQS shocks deliver 14.2-inches of travel up front and 13.3-inches of travel in the rear. FOX® Intelligent Quick Switch puts the suspension settings in the hands of the driver. By choosing the preferred damping levels from a switch in the cockpit, there’s no more getting out of the vehicle to adjust your damping settings!

3 D-MODES, 1 MACHINE

The Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) optimizes power delivery for a variety of situations through an all-new three-position D-Mode. The Sport Mode is ideal for wide open trails, sand, and spirited driving. Trail Mode is perfect for a fun, relaxed ride or taking on the trails with smooth acceleration and linear throttle response. For those adventure seekers, the Crawl Mode can take on slow technical situations, like rock crawling, with ease. In combination with Yamaha’s Ultramatic® and On-Command systems, the Wolverine RMAX4 1000 Limited Edition delivers the perfect amount of engine braking by operating the throttle in accordance to the user’s selected D-Mode setting.

CLICK HERE TO FIND YOUR LOCAL YAMAHA DEALER!

BOAT SAFELY WITH

Garmin is fueling the conversation on safety by joining forces with the National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) in an effort to encourage safe boating practices throughout the year. With even more people on the water than ever before, now is the perfect reminder for boaters to prepare themselves and their vessels for safer and more enjoyable boating experiences out on the water. In addition to the free educational resources offered by the NSBC and important best practices provided by Garmin, we hope that you’ll keep these products in mind while joining the conversation on safe boating this season: Navionics Boating app The free Navionics Boating app equips boaters and anglers with a complete marine navigation package, right to their mobile device. The Boating app can be used as a primary or backup navigation tool, allowing boaters to get more from their time on the water with features like Dock- to-Dock Autorouting, weather and tides, detailed chart overlays, up to 5,000 daily updates to chart content and more. Garmin g3 Cartography Marine cartography is not just an accessory, but an essential tool that enhances situational awareness while navigating the water. On the lake or out at sea, Garmin g3 coastal charts and inland maps delivers the #1 marine mapping -- thanks to combined Garmin and Navionics data -- to safely guide boaters to their favorite honey holes or through unknown waters.

-- with confidence while helping avoid potential hazards or collisions with other boaters.

inReach Mini Marine Bundle Whether preparing for a voyage off the grid or simply wanting to stay connected with loved ones onshore, the inReach mini marine bundle was built with mariners in mind. With features like two-way textmessaging, SOSand24/7 emergency services, live GPS location sharing, weather forecasts and more, the inReach mini marine bundle is an invaluable companion for greater peace of mind on the water, without taking up space at the helm. *To access preloaded BlueChart g3 cartography and even more features, Garmin also offers the GPSMAP 86sci marine handheld with inReach capabilities.

Garmin AIS & VHF With Garmin VHF and AIS onboard, boaters can quickly identity and communicate with other vessels in the area for greater confidence on the open waters. Garmin VHS also features Digital Selective Calling (DSC) functionality – a global protocol that uses channel 70 – allowing boaters to transmit and receive digital emergency messages, private calls, general calls and more. DSC significantly improves the chances of rapid rescue.

Products we suggest: AIS 800 Blackbox Transceiver and VHF 215 AIS marine radio

Fantom 254/256 Marine Radars Featuring Garmin MotionScope technology, the Fantom 254/256 instantly detects moving targets like flocks of birds, weather, other boats and more so serious offshore boaters and anglers can be more aware of their surroundings. As Garmin’s highest-powered solid-state marine radar, the Fantom 254/256 allows boaters to explore everything -- from shorelines to the open ocean

Whether new to the boating community or a seasoned mariner, Garmin’s latest marine webinar benefits boaters of any level with tips on how to better prepare themselves and their vessels for a safe experience on the water click here.

SPRO® HAS CRANKING COVERED AT ALL DEPTHS! For twelve-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier John Crews, a crankbait is a money-making tool that triggers strikes throughout the water column, but without the proper vibration and deflecting qualities, you’re going to get beaten every time. That’s why he relies on SPRO® crankbaits whether he’s bumping bottom in a foot of water or dredging offshore structures over 20 feet deep. “The biggest thing with a crankbait is that they have a vibration that appeals to the lateral line of a bass unlike any other bait,” he said. “There are times when that’s the only thing they’ll touch.” Still, not every crankbait fits the bill for every scenario. That’s why the veteran pro employs a full arsenal of diving plugs.

It starts with the hard-hunting Fat John 50 and 60. Although Crews himself has the physique of an athlete, he relies on these wide-bodied “bad dudes” in water less than 3 feet deep. “They move a ton of water and create a bigger presence than other lures their size as you reel. Sometimes that appeals more to a bass, especially big bass.” When bass demand a more subtle crankbait, that’s when he turns to the original Little Johns, flat- sided, tight-wobbling lures that embody the best attributes of old-school handmade crankbaits, without their downsides. “All of the Little Johns were built on the premise of hard plastic with the characteristics of wood. They have the shape, size, bill angle, and that same lively action of the old-school balsa baits, but they still cast extremely well and are more durable.” The original Little John 50 may be compact, but at 1/2 ounce and with a tungsten weight-transfer system it casts like a bullet and covers the 3 to 5 foot range efficiently. The MD50 has a larger lip that gets it down to the 7 to 9 foot range, but that’s not the only difference.

calls aggressive trophy bass from a distance.

“Like the original Little John, it has more of a pivoting action,” Crews said. “It’ll get down to 8 feet deep, and thumps in an annoying fashion to trigger even reluctant biters.”

“They’re both good year-round, especially in crowded areas,” Crews explained. “But the MD has more of a swimming action and comes through cover really well, while the shallower-diving version has more of a pivoting action.” Both come in silent versions as well as “Type R” rattling models. “The two times I really like a rattle are when I’m around a whole lot of baitfish and when I’m fishing in grass. The rattle helps the bass find the bait.”

Finally, for those committed deep water anglers who want to tempt pressured schools, SPRO offers two models that will touch and even exceed the magic 20 foot mark. The DD 70 is a 3/4 ounce beast that “comes through deep brush really well.” The ultimate deep diver, however, is the DD 90, which Crews said will easily grind into the bottom at 23 feet on a long cast with the proper tackle. “There are only a handful of crankbaits that’ll get that deep, and this one has a lot more subtle wobble than some of the other extra-deep-diving baits.” Of course, even the best cranking tools won’t excel if you don’t put them in the proper places. Crews said that “you always want your crankbait to be deflecting off cover or close to cover. Because they’re often moving at a rapid pace, it’s also essential to use a cranking rod with some “give” in it. That allows the fish to take the bait, rather than you pulling it away.” If you’re not cranking throughout the water column, you’re not making the most of your time on the lake, and SPRO gives you the full set of tools to get the job done all year long.

The newest addition to the team is the Little John Micro DD 45, featuring an ultra-compact body that still gets down in a hurry. “I wanted a small, subtle vibration crankbait that would get deeper than anything else that size,” Crews explained. “That little rascal will get every bit of 9 or 10 feet down but it’s still heavy enough to throw on baitcasting gear. It’s great in the early prespawn, and in highly pressured areas. Those fish in that depth range don’t see subtle vibrating crankbaits very often.”

At the opposite end of the spectrum is the Little John XL, a 3/4 ounce large-bodied thumper that

WHY EVERY ANGLER SHOULD HAVE GARMIN LIVESCOPE ON THEIR BOAT

Garmin has changed the way fishing is approached thanks to the Garmin’s Livescope. To many it’s now an essential unit for any angler to have on their boat! When Garmin debuted Livescope, and gave anglers the ability to view a real-time image of what’s happening below their boat, it changed the game of fishing as we knew it. In this video we’ll be on the water with several anglers who have incorporated livescope into their fishing arsenal of must-have gear, and we’ll see first hand how they use it to find those perfect fishing spots, and to find fish. Confidence is the key word we hear from both pro and weekend anglers consistently using when talking about Livescope. When you add a Garmin Livescope to your boat, not only are you increasing your chances of reeling in more fish, you’re maximizing your ability to see why you’re catching

those fish! Click here for more information on this and other Garmin products!

FISHING ADVENTURES AND GEAR!

Watch this great episode to help everyone in selecting the right gear for a fishing trip!

We also share insight in this episode on what makes Crappie one of the most popular sport fish swimming in freshwater fisheries across the nation. During the first portion of this show, host Wade Middleton breaks down how to target crappie using Garmin Panoptix LiveScope. After loading the Engel Cooler up with keeper crappie, Wade then walks through step by step how to prepare these fish in the Bradley Smoker. Following that, we take a look at one of the newest additions to the lineup of baits from Secret Lures. The Stupid Craw is a great new bait that incorporates the stupid style rigging method. Available in five different color options, the Stupid Craw is going to be a fish-catching bait that all anglers need in their tackle bag. The next segment of the show will highlight a world-class fishing vessel fromRanger Boats, the RB 200. Host Wade Middleton will go into detail about this boat, and each different element he hand-selected to rig out this great aluminum fishing boat. And in the final segment, we take a look at baits and products from the likes of Sunline, Big Bite Baits, and SPRO. Tune in to learn about these great products and more during this episode of the Bass Pro Shops Fisherman’s Handbook.

REGISTER. REDEEM. FISH.

REGISTERNOW

Watch the latest Yamaha PowerPay Video!

HAVEYOU CHANGEDYOUR CROSSBOW STRING AND CABLES LATELY?

We’ve all done it. At one time or another, we’ve all put off performing essential maintenance on our hunting crossbows. Do you wait a month, a year, two years, or even longer? Just because you paid a lot of money for a crossbow doesn’t mean it is indestructible – maintenance MUST be performed periodically to keep your crossbow in top shooting form. In the case of changing the string and cables, we recommend changing both (YES, BOTH !) at least every two years due to stretching that occurs over time. Many people want to change just the string because it is less expensive, and, by the way, the cables look just fine! You won’t be able to tell how much the cables have stretched, if any, but why take that chance? You also need to think about the disservice you are doing to your crossbow‘s limbs over time if you don’t change your string and cables. Countless times over the years I’ve been told “my crossbow is ten years old and I’ve never changed the string or cables, and it still shoots the same as the day I bought it – in fact I shoot deer with it every year.” Just watching slow-motion videos of a crossbow being fired should open your eyes as to how much stress and strain the string, cables, limbs, and even axles go through each time you pull the trigger. Believe it or not, your crossbow’s limbs are engineered to flex a certain way. If your string and cables have stretched over an extended period, you are also adding extra stress to your limbs and you may have put them at risk to crack in the future. Yes, crossbows are getting more and more high-tech, but that means you should be even more vigilant about making sure everything not only looks good, but a routine inspection and maintenance are performed as recommended.

We’ve been handgun hunting for 3+ years now and our favorite is the Smith&Wesson Performance Center 460XVR handgun. This handgun has the highest muzzle velocity of any production revolver on earth, giving you that incredible knockdown power for big game hunting!

DEER HUNTING WITH HANDGUNS Some hunters are always looking for a new challenge, new species, locations or a way to hunt with something different. Many of those hunters have already taken game with rifles and are not quite ready for the challenge of bow hunting or they simply want to have more options to hunt with. Therefore, they have decided to take up or at least look into hunting with a handgun. As with many hunting topics the subject of handgun hunting could fill up an old library with books and information. We’ve always felt that the gearing up and practice-preparation is as fun as the hunt and should be enjoyed just as much. This episode has insight into selecting handguns, strategies, how to tips and more so hopefully you will enjoy all the action and come away ready to take up handgun hunting or have insight on the next handgun you’ll be purchasing!

MODEL 629 PERFORMANCE CENTER® MODEL 629 .44 MAGNUM® HUNTER has all the bells and whistles you would expect from our Smith & Wesson Performance Center®, such as a custom-tuned action for which our Performance Center is well known. The handgun is constructed from all stainless steel, and has a two-tone finish that sets it apart from our standard products. The barrel has a few unique options like the dovetailed front sight, integral Picatinny rail, and of course the custom muzzle brake. WATCH THIS EPISODE NOW! (CLICK ON THE LOGO BELOW)

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Texas Christian University Anglers Skolnick & Torres Win 2021 BoatUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops

The conclusion of the 2021 BoatUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops marks the end of the 2020-21 Bass Pro Shops Collegiate Bass Fishing Series. Hundreds of the nation’s top collegiate bass fishing anglers competed on Lake Murray in South Carolina for a National Championship, $30,000+ in prizes and contingencies, as well as a winner to be crowned Bass Pro Shops School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia. When the scales closed at Dreher Island State Park, Noah Skolnick and Garrett Torres from Texas Christian University take the victory at college fishing’s longest-running National Championship event with a two-day total of 32.51 pounds.

Skolnick and Torres were sitting in 15th place after Day 1 of tournament competition. The duo weighed in 13.53 pounds on the first day of the event. As the final day weigh-in drew to a close, Skolnick and Torres were the last team to come to the scales, needing 18.26 pounds to take the title. In dramatic fashion, the duo brought in 18.98 pounds to take over the top spot on the leaderboard. As the winners of the 2021 BoatUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops, Skolnick and Torres win a grand prize of $5,000. Skolnick also goes home with an additional $500 as the winner of the Garmin Tournament Rewards.

Richardson & Kelly from Newberry College claim 2nd, University of Tennessee’s Gee & Sentell finish in 3rd

Finishing the event in 2nd place overall are Tim Richardson and Gerard Kelly from Newberry College. The two freshman anglers entered today in 2nd place, and held on to that spot in the standings with a two day total weight of 31.79 pounds. Richardson & Kelly controlled the Engel Coolers Hot Seat for close to an hour, fending off some of the best collegiate anglers in the nation. The local team from just up the road in Newberry goes home with a $2,500 cash prize. Rounding out the Top 3 are Robert Gee and Chad Sentell from the University of Tennessee. The team finishes the 2021 BoatUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops with a two-day total weight of 31.66 pounds. Gee and Sentell earn $1,500 cash for their Top 3 finish. The day’s festivities concluded with the culmination of the 2020-21 Bass Pro Shops School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia. Top ranked University of Montevallo managed to hold on to that top spot and finish the season as the number one ranked team in all of collegiate bass fishing. Montevallo took over the top ranking back in November of 2020 and did not relinquish that number one spot. This marks the first time Montevallo has won the Bass Pro Shops School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia. Back-to-back defending title holders McKendree University finish the season ranked 2nd, and Adrian College moves up one spot in the rankings to slide into 3rd. The Association of Collegiate Anglers would like to send out a special thanks to all of the series partners that help to support these anglers and make everything possible. Also, thank you to Capital City/Lake Murray Country for the wonderful hospitality this week and helping us to put on a tremendous event for these great collegiate anglers.

View complete tournament standings.

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Montevallo Claims Bass Pro Shops Collegiate School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia

The 2020-21 season out on the Bass Pro Shops Collegiate Bass Fishing Series came to a historic end last week at Lake Murray in South Carolina. Following the conclusion of weigh-in at Dreher Island State Park last Thursday points totals were calculated, and the standings finalized for this season’s Bass Pro Shops School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia. The final standings revealed several shakeups to be one of the most dramatic reveals of the season as one new team leapt up into the Top 3 and Montevallo’s lead over 2nd place shrank to its slimmest margin in the past several months. When it was all said and done, Montevallo did just enough at Lake Murray to claim the school’s first-ever title as Bass Pro Shops School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia. Back-

to-back defending winners McKendree University closed the margin to less than 300 points to finish the season in 2nd, and Adrian College leap-frogged Murray State to earn 3rd place honors. “It was very exciting to see all the hard work finally pay off. This is my 6th season at Montevallo and each year I felt that we were getting closer and closer of reaching that top spot in collegiate bass fishing,” said William Crawford, Head Fishing Coachat theUniversity ofMontevallo. “Being this is the first-ever title for the program or the University there has been a lot of excitement around our campus, community, state and even in the fishing community. I am amazed at the amount of support we have received since winning the title.”

Montevallo’s quest for its first-ever School of the Year title was not accomplished without a slight bit of drama. Following Day 1 of competition, the number one ranked team in the nation had two teams inside of the Top 10 and looked poised to build on its 1,000 plus point lead and run away with the title. James Willoughby & Chance Schwartz were in 5th place with 15.37 pounds, and fellow teammates Solomon Glenn & Ryan Thomas occupied 6th at 15.12 pounds. Day 2 proved not to be as stress-free as Montevallo likely expected following a picture-perfect start on Day 1. ACA camera crew staff covered both the 5th and 6th place teams throughout the morning, and it quickly became evident that those two angler pairings were finding the conditions to be much more difficult. At weigh-in that afternoon, Montevallo’s confidence quickly began to shrink as several of the nation’s other top teams began to place teams inside of the Top 20 of the tournament standings and pushing Montevallo downward in the standings. Willoughby & Schwartz zeroed on the final day of competition, dropping from 5th place after Day 1 all the way down to 66th overall. Montevallo’s other highest-placing team after Day 1 struggled immensely on the final day as well. The duo of Glenn & Thomas dropped from 6th overall down to 51st after weighing in just 2.75 pounds of bass on Day 2. In just a matter of 24 hours, Montevallo went from having a commanding seven-month run atop the standings, to possibly watching its title hopes to dwindle as college fishing powerhouse McKendree University lurked within striking distance on the final day. The team that had Montevallo looking back over its shoulder on Day 2 had won the Bass Pro Shops School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia the past two years and was just over 1,000 points shy of first place. Upon the closing of the scales on the final day of competition, McKendree placed two teams inside of the Top 25 in the tournament standings earning valuable points in its quest toward claiming a third straight title. Nate Doty & Bailey Bleser finished in 12th with a two-day total of 26.18 pounds, and Trevor McKinney & Blake Jackson took 24th with 22.48 pounds. McKendree earned a total of 2,320 points at the 2021 BoatUS Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops. This point total was nearly 1,000 points higher than that of top-ranked Montevallo. However, the lead Montevallo built up over the past seven months proved to be too much to overcome as McKendree came up 250 points short of claiming a three-peat as School of the Year winners. A season full of hard work, dedication, and proper scheduling paid off for the University of Montevallo as it claims its first-ever title as Bass Pro Shops School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia. For three to four seasons now, Montevallo has been building towards this moment. The team’s spring season has been chalked full of Top 10 finishes across the national stage, including two victories at ACA double points event. “While the season wrapped up a bit closer than expected, I personally don’t think I’ve seen a school have such a good run as what Montevallo has had this season. The talent pool at the school runs deep as they had a large roster of anglers that all contributed to earning points all season long. Congratulations on a job well done on the water by this fine group of anglers,” said Wade Middleton, Director of Association of Collegiate Anglers.

“This is a group of guys that dedicates their heart and soul into the sport of bass fishing. This means a lot for us because this is something all of us dreamed of and strives for when we came to fish for Montevallo. Our coach, William Crawford, has put everything he has into trying to build the best team in the nation,” added Cal Culpepper, Montevallo angler. “His drive to bring guys in from all over the country is one of the reasons why we ended up on top. Our team is full of versatility. It’s always someone different at the top at every tournament, and you need that if you want to be the best team in the nation.” A majority of the anglers on this current roster have been at Montevallo for three to four years now and have seen steady growth through that time. Last season ended in a runner-up finish, and the team’s goal entering the 2020-21 season was to cap this year off as the top-ranked team in the nation. “It really means the world to all of us involved considering this has been one of our top goals, if not the top goal, for this organization for the past couple of years,” noted Adam Carroll, Montevallo angler. “Back when I first came to the University of Montevallo, we established this goal and it seemed pretty far fetched, but after we came so close last year, and have now won it, it just goes to show that with hard work, teamwork and great effort and determination that anything is possible.”

McKendree University (above) finishes in 2nd, and Adrian College (below) moves up one spot to claim 3rd to finish off the 2021 Bass Pro Shops School of the Year presented by Abu Garcia race.