The 2005 Bassmaster Classic, held on the Three Rivers of Pittsburgh, was the third one that I attended and the second as a member of the media. Over two decades later, it remains one my fondest memories, a milestone Classic and an inflection point in my life.
Even though Mike Iaconelli won a Classic title two years earlier, I suspected that the Pittsburgh event was also especially memorable for him, so I took an opportunity to pick h is brain about the particulars.
Through our involvement with the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame and attendance at many great fishing events, we’ve gotten to meet many of our “heroes” — the people who shape the sport we love.
Steve Yatomi was a larger-than-life personality who was at his best developing new international fisheries and bringing out the best in his fellow anglers and travelers.
Taku Ito is a champion and fan favorite on the BASSmaster Elite Series -- but there's another species that's captured the Japanese pro's heart and dreams.
Why do so many elite bass pros love tuna fishing? See why Skeet Reese and other top anglers chase big tuna—and why Panama should be on your list.