Host Michael Bray takes this special episode straight from Blast Off to the Winners Circle following the BAM Kayak Series stop at Lake Don Pedro. This one breaks down exactly how the top anglers separated themselves on a fishery that can be as rewarding as it is challenging.
Joining the show are event Champion Isiah West and runner-up Shane Jones, who finished just 0.50 inches apart in a tight race that came down to execution, decision-making, and staying locked in mentally. Both anglers walk through their approach to the event, how they adjusted throughout the day, and what it took to put together big limits on Don Pedro.
This episode is a practical look at how high-level kayak anglers break down water, manage pressure, and capitalize on key bites when it matters most. If you’re fishing springtime reservoirs or looking to improve your tournament mindset, there’s a lot to take from this one.
Hosted by Michael Bray, Head Coach of the Simpson University Bass Fishing Team and Tournament Director for the BAM Trail, this episode continues the focus on real-world tactics, angler mindset, and what it takes to compete at a high level on the West Coast.
BAM Kayak Series stop at Lake Don Pedro
Strong turnout and competitive field
Big limits brought to the board with a narrow 0.50” margin between first and second
Springtime conditions shaping fish positioning and bite windows
Isiah West – Event Champion
Shane Jones – Second Place Finisher
Both anglers detail their preparation, expectations, and execution on tournament day
Pre-tournament mindset and expectations
Adjusting to conditions vs. sticking with a game plan
Managing pressure in a tight field
How each angler approached locating fish
Identifying productive water and structure
Adjustments made throughout the event
Lure selection and presentation strategies
Targeting key zones for bigger bites
Timing and efficiency on the water
Critical decisions that separated 1st and 2nd
Missed opportunities vs. capitalized bites
Lessons learned from a razor-close finish
What anglers can apply to their own fishing right now
Spring reservoir patterns and fish behavior
The importance of execution late in the day This episode goes beyond results and gets into the “how” and “why” behind success on a tough fishery. Whether you’re a kayak angler or fishing from a boat, the insights shared by Isiah West and Shane Jones offer a clear look at what it takes to consistently compete and finish at the top.
Listen Now and follow the BAM Podcast for more in-depth conversations with top anglers, industry voices, and behind-the-scenes looks at the BAM Tournament Trail.
About BAM Podcasts
Bass Angler Magazine's is a bi-monthly podcast series its available free on Simple Cast, iTunes, Spotify, Google Play and Amazon. Stay tuned as we discuss the latest in bass fishing, lure trends, ways to catch fish, tournament wins and things of interest to bass anglers.
BASS ANGLER MAGAZINE (BAM), a veteran owned quarterly print and digital magazine, designed, and printed in the U.S.A. Covering largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass, Bass Angler was created specifically to help you become a better, more informed bass fisherman. As the industry’s most informative bass fishing magazine, we provide you in-depth exclusive new features with the world’s top anglers.
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