Bass Angler Magazine Podcast

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Bass Angler Magazine Podcast episodes

October 21 BAM PODCAST: Christian Ostrander Wins $50,000 at Lake Don Pedro!
THE $50,000 SUPER 60 VICTORY
Christian Ostrander breaks down his championship performance at Lake Don Pedro, including the decisions that helped him overcome difficult fishing conditions and capture the $50,000 first-place prize.
THE KEEPER COUNT STRATEGY
Rather than chasing big fish during the qualifying rounds, Christian focused on catching keeper bass in Woods Creek. He explains why the BAM Super 60 format influenced his strategy and how targeting numbers instead of weight helped him reach Championship Sunday.
CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY: WINNER TAKES $50,000
With the weights reset for the final round, Christian had to make adjustments to compete for the championship. He discusses the pressure, the changing conditions, and the importance of making the right decisions when everything is on the line.
THE REAL COST OF PROFESSIONAL BASS FISHING
Christian shares the financial challenges that many tournament anglers face, including entry fees, fuel, lodging, boat expenses, and the difficulties of competing without major sponsors. He explains why even successful tournament anglers must carefully manage their finances.
TROPHIES OVER MONEY
After winning six Pro-Am tournaments in four years, Christian shares his philosophy on competitive fishing. While prize money helps pay the bills, he believes trophies represent something far more meaningful—a lasting record of accomplishments and a legacy worth remembering.
FORWARD-FACING SONAR AND MODERN TOURNAMENT FISHING
Christian discusses the growing importance of forward-facing sonar, the time required to master the technology, and why successful scoping involves far more than simply watching fish on a screen.
GROWING BASS FISHING IN THE WEST
The conversation explores the resurgence of professional tournament opportunities on the West Coast, the importance of developing young anglers, and BAM’s efforts to provide competitive opportunities and scholarship support.
FISH WITH CHRISTIAN OSTRANDER
Christian also talks about his professional guide service, offering anglers the opportunity to fish with him on the California Delta and Clear Lake while learning techniques from a proven tournament champion.
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.
Subscribe to Bass Angler Magazine print and or digital here
53 min
October 08BAM PODCAST: Simon Herr Dominates Lake Shasta Kayak Championship
SIMON HERR'S DOMINATING PERFORMANCE
Simon captured the BAM Kayak Tournament of Champions title at Lake Shasta with a commanding margin of more than 23 inches over two days. He established a 16-inch lead on the opening day and never looked back, securing his fourth tournament victory of the year.
THE WINNING PATTERN: STANDING TIMBER
Rather than running all over Shasta Lake, Simon concentrated on productive standing timber in the Jones Valley area. Using forward-facing sonar, he identified specific trees with branches still attached and located suspended bass holding around the structure.
THE URCHIN BAIT ADVANTAGE
While much of the field relied on minnow-style presentations, Simon turned to a 13mm urchin-style bait that gave the fish something different to look at. He explains why the presentation worked, how he adjusted for short strikes, and why he believes the technique will remain effective even as more anglers adopt it.
RIGGING AND PRESENTATION SECRETS
Simon shares several important details about his setup, including 20-pound fluorocarbon, a treble-hook configuration, a bobber stop, and nail weights. His slow-falling presentation was particularly effective on suspended bass in 20 to 50 feet of water. He also discusses the importance of natural colors, particularly green pumpkin in clearer water.
DAY 2: CLOSING OUT THE CHAMPIONSHIP
With a substantial lead heading into the final day, Simon made strategic adjustments and explored additional areas around Bridge Bay. Two quality bass measuring 18 and 19.5 inches helped seal the victory.
FORWARD-FACING SONAR AND THE FUTURE OF FISHING
Simon shares his perspective on forward-facing sonar, the growing popularity of urchin-style baits, and how anglers must continue adapting as fishing technology and tournament regulations evolve.
THE GROWTH OF COMPETITIVE KAYAK FISHING
The conversation explores the rising cost of competitive kayak fishing, the challenges of covering large reservoirs, and how organizations like BAM are helping elevate the sport through professional media coverage and tournament opportunities.
Simon also discusses his experiences competing on both the BAM and Yakabass circuits and what it might take to attract 150–200 kayak anglers to a major West Coast championship.
SPONSOR APPRECIATION
Simon recognizes the companies supporting his competitive fishing, including P-Line and First Gen Fishing.
KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE
23+ Inches: Simon's commanding winning margin at the BAM Kayak Tournament of Champions.
16-Inch Day 1 Lead: How Simon established control of the championship early.
Standing Timber: Why trees with branches in Jones Valley produced quality bass.
13mm Urchin Bait: The unconventional presentation that helped separate Simon from the field.
20–60 Feet: The depth range where Simon located bass using forward-facing sonar.
Slow Fall, Bigger Bites: Why slowing down and targeting suspended fish outperformed covering water.
Fourth Win of the Year: Simon reflects on one of his most satisfying tournament victories.
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.
Subscribe to Bass Angler Magazine print and or digital here
1 hr 2 min
September 24BAM Podcast: Hayden Lee — How He Won Don Pedro
Hayden Lee Wins
Hayden Lee wins his first professional tournament
Breaking down the BAM Don Pedro Pro-Am
How Hayden’s pattern changed over three days
Using Garmin LiveScope in 35–50 feet
Why 70–80-yard casts can matter
Understanding pressured bass behavior
The critical 10 a.m.–3 p.m. bite window
Why approximately 1 p.m. became a key period
Following threadfin shad instead of traditional structure
Using weather, temperature and moon-phase records
Treating your home lake like unfamiliar water
Preparing for the BAM Super 60 at Don Pedro
The impact of tournament fishing pressure
Preparing for the November BAM Classic
Growing tournament bass fishing in the West
Creating opportunities for young anglers through scholastic fishing
Hayden’s family, career and tournament goals
Guest: Hayden Lee — BAM Don Pedro Pro-Am Champion
Hayden discusses his support from New Maloney Storage, Leeway Construction and Boat Pros, along with the people and companies helping him compete throughout the West.
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.
Subscribe to Bass Angler Magazine print and or digital here
56 min
September 09 Ty Manterola: Winning Boardman, Tournament Strategy & the Future of Western Bass Fishing
• Ty Manterola’s BAM Pro-Am victory at Boardman, Oregon
• Winning a $45,000 Vexus/Mercury Bass Boat tournament package
• 10+ Top-10 finishes in BAM competition
• Ty’s growing career tournament earnings
• Finding the winning Columbia River grass pattern
• Why Ty committed to one area instead of running the river
• Catching the tournament’s biggest bag on Day Two
• Adjusting to wind, dirty water and changing conditions
• Using the Strike King Thunder Cricket
• The mental discipline required to stay with a winning pattern
• Fishing your own strengths instead of copying other anglers
• Managing weather and changing conditions on the Columbia River
• Competing against experienced Pacific Northwest anglers
• The depth of fishing talent in the Northwest
• Building greater recognition for Western tournament anglers
• BAM Pro-Am and Super 60 tournament opportunities
• Growing professional tournament fishing in the West
• The BAM Scholastic Series
• Opportunities for high school and college anglers
• The $100,000 Simpson University scholarship opportunity
• Ty’s goal of making tournament fishing his full-time career
• The importance of sponsors and industry support
• Support from Boardman and the local community
• What’s next for Ty and the BAM Trail
ABOUT TY MANTEROLA
Ty Manterola continues to establish himself as one of the West’s most consistent tournament bass anglers. With numerous Top-10 finishes, major tournament victories and a growing career earnings total, Ty has demonstrated his ability to compete across a wide range of Western fisheries.
His Boardman Pro-Am victory showcased both his fishing ability and tournament discipline, as he committed to a productive Columbia River pattern through difficult weather and changing conditions to secure the win.
FOLLOW BAM
For tournament information, results, schedules and upcoming BAM Trail events, visit BAMTrail.com.
For bass fishing news, techniques, tournament coverage and Bass Angler Magazine, visit BassAnglerMag.com.
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.
Subscribe to Bass Angler Magazine print and or digital here
1 hr 19 min
August 26BAM Podcast — Big Ed with Pro Angler Darrell Ocamica
TRI-CITIES: FROM 66TH TO THE TOP 10
Darrell Ocamica discusses his recent 8th-place finish at Tri-Cities and the adjustments that helped turn his tournament around. After sitting in 66th place, he caught 57 keepers on Day 2 and climbed all the way to 13th before ultimately finishing inside the Top 10.
BREAKING DOWN THE COLUMBIA RIVER
Despite living near the Columbia River, Ocamica says his tournament schedule and other local fisheries mean he doesn’t spend as much time on the river as people might expect.
He explains how he targeted current seams where grass met moving water and found productive areas around rock and well-defined grass walls. A jerkbait became an important part of generating keeper bites.
NUMBERS VS. QUALITY
One of the episode’s key tournament lessons centers on the difference between finding fish and finding the right fish.
Ocamica discusses how easy it can be to stay with an area producing constant bites. In a tournament, however, catching numbers doesn’t necessarily produce the weight required to win. Knowing when to abandon a productive bite and search for bigger bass can be one of the most difficult decisions an angler makes.
THE GIANT THAT GOT AWAY
Ocamica recounts losing a massive bass he estimated at close to 10 pounds. Landing that fish could have dramatically changed his tournament finish and potentially put him in position to win.
It’s a reminder of how one bite—and sometimes one missed opportunity—can determine an entire tournament.
BOARDMAN PRO-AM PREVIEW
Big Ed and Ocamica look ahead to the BAM Pro-Am on the Boardman Pool of the Columbia River.
Ocamica believes competitors should have plenty of opportunities to catch fish, making Boardman a strong tournament fishery for both Pros and Co-Anglers. The challenge will be finding the better-than-average bites necessary to separate from the field.
Projected competitive weight:
17–20 pounds per day
Potential three-day winning weight:
55–60 pounds
Weather and changing Columbia River conditions could play a major role, making multiple patterns and backup areas especially important.
WHAT COULD WORK AT BOARDMAN
Ocamica discusses several techniques anglers could potentially have in play, including:
Topwater

Jerkbaits

Jigs

Spoons

Crankbaits

Rattle traps

Finesse presentations

Senkos
He also talks about how seemingly minor differences—such as the sound produced by different rattle-style baits—can affect smallmouth.
WHAT THE SUPER 60 TAUGHT HIM
Competing against the BAM Super 60 field exposed Ocamica to different ways of fishing water he already knew.
His biggest takeaway: don’t develop tunnel vision.
Tournament anglers can become committed to techniques and areas that have worked in the past. Watching other accomplished anglers approach familiar fisheries differently reinforced the value of versatility and continued learning.
THE MENTAL SIDE OF TOURNAMENT FISHING
Ocamica looks back at a difficult tournament experience on Kentucky Lake in 2000 when he went an entire competition day without catching a bass.
Those days can be humbling, but they’re also part of becoming a better tournament angler. Ocamica discusses the importance of continuing to learn and developing multiple techniques instead of relying exclusively on what an angler already does well.
COACHING, COMPETITION AND FISHING
Away from tournament fishing, Ocamica is passionate about coaching high school basketball.
He and Big Ed discuss the similarities between coaching and competitive fishing. Both require preparation, constant learning, adaptability and the ability to perform when circumstances don’t go according to plan.
For Ocamica, coaching is also about something bigger than wins and losses: making a lasting impact on his players after their time on the team is over.
FAMILY BEHIND THE FISHERMAN
Ocamica credits his wife and family with providing the support that makes his tournament career possible. With his 25th wedding anniversary approaching, he discusses how important it is for a competitive angler to have people at home who understand the commitment tournament fishing requires.
That perspective also shapes his priorities. Ocamica will miss an upcoming Super 60 event so he can be there for his son’s senior-night football game.
THE ROAD TO THE BAM CLASSIC
The conversation turns toward the BAM Classic at Don Pedro. Ocamica is currently sitting 8th in AOY during the discussion and appears positioned to qualify.
Big Ed and Ocamica discuss how Don Pedro could produce an exciting championship, with topwater, jigs, spoons, crankbaits and other techniques potentially contributing to the winning pattern.
BUILDING WESTERN PROFESSIONAL BASS FISHING
Big Ed challenges more Pacific Northwest anglers to compete in BAM Pro-Am events and earn their opportunity to advance into the Super 60.
The discussion highlights the amount of fishing talent throughout the West and the difference in angler recognition between Western and Eastern professional bass fishing.
Ocamica points out that building recognizable anglers, tournament careers and a larger Western fan base doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a long-term process that requires anglers, tournaments and media exposure to grow together.
FEATURED TOPICS
Columbia River bass fishing • Boardman Pro-Am • Tri-Cities tournament • BAM Super 60 • BAM Classic • Don Pedro • Pacific Northwest bass fishing • smallmouth bass • tournament strategy • jerkbait fishing • finesse fishing • topwater fishing • tournament psychology • professional bass fishing • high school basketball coaching • family and tournament fishing
EPISODE TAKEAWAY
Catching bass and winning tournaments are two different skills. Ocamica’s experiences show that success at the professional level requires versatility, decision-making, mental toughness and a willingness to keep learning—even on water an angler thinks he already knows.
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.
Subscribe to Bass Angler Magazine print and or digital here
1 hr 11 min
August 11BAM PODCAST: RON MACE – BACK-TO-BACK COLUMBIA RIVER CHAMPION
Ron Mace joins the BAM Podcast following another major victory on the Columbia River.
In this episode:
Ron reflects on winning back-to-back events on the Columbia River.

Making the approximately 40-mile run into the Hanford Reach.

Catching 21 to 22 keepers and having around 20 pounds by 9:30 AM.

Fishing current breaks in water moving as fast as seven miles per hour.

Why a green pumpkin Cinco became a key tournament bait.

Using floating braided line to control the presentation in heavy current.

How a two-foot rise in water level changed his productive areas.

Switching from Spot-Lock to drifting and catching three important bass.

Understanding how Columbia River current affects shallow and deep bass differently.

Fishing for tournament-winning quality instead of simply catching numbers.

Why Ron targets consistent 18- to 20-pound bags.

Winning with traditional fishing techniques rather than relying on forward-facing sonar.

Fishing shallow water and visually identifying productive areas.

Ron’s three 150-amp lithium battery setup and why dependable power matters on the Columbia.

Preparing for upcoming tournaments at Boardman and future BAM events.

The importance of family and sponsor support throughout Ron’s fishing career.

Ron recognizes JNS Tires, Divine Wraps, Nixon’s Marine and Apollo Mechanical for their support.
Ron Mace’s latest victory is another example of how preparation, river knowledge and making the right adjustments can beat technology and complicated techniques.
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.
Subscribe to Bass Angler Magazine print and or digital here
55 min
July 29Mastering the Urchin Bait – Techniques, Rigging, and Tournament Strategy
Whether you’re curious about the latest Japanese finesse techniques or preparing for your next tournament, this episode delivers practical advice that anglers can immediately apply on the water.
Episode Highlights
The origin and rapid rise of the Urchin Bait.

Why younger anglers are developing innovative techniques with the bait.

Selecting the correct size for spotted bass versus largemouth bass.

How bait weight affects fall rate and triggering strikes.

Best colors to start with, including Green Pumpkin and Shad patterns.

Fishing around grass, timber, rock, and suspended fish.

Rigging options using single hooks, treble hooks, and weighted systems.

Why fluorocarbon line generally outperforms braid for this presentation.

Proper storage techniques for TPE soft plastics.

Differences between Dice baits and Urchin baits.

Creative modifications anglers are making to improve bait performance.

Tournament preview for the BAM Super 60 on the Columbia River.

Regional fishing insights from Northern California and the Pacific Northwest.

Gear & Technique Takeaways
Match bait size to the species and conditions.

Focus on achieving a slow, natural sink rate.

The bait’s movement is more important than exact color selection.

Strong, stiff tentacles create the best underwater action.

Experiment with weighted hooks to fine-tune fall speed.

Fluorocarbon helps maintain better bait control and hook-up percentages.

Store TPE baits separately to prevent warping and damage.

Don’t limit the bait to LiveScope fishing—it can be effective around nearly every type of cover.
Tournament Talk
The crew also previews upcoming BAM Trail events, discussing:
Columbia River fishing conditions.

Boardman versus Tri-Cities strategies.

Local anglers expected to contend.

Wind and current considerations.

Catch expectations and what it may take to win.

Rich Craft’s confidence heading into competition.
Featured Sponsors
Thanks to the companies that support BAM and tournament anglers across the West.
BAM Trail

Bass Angler Magazine

BAM Super 60

Tournament sponsor partners discussed throughout the episode.
Why You Should Listen
If you’ve been hearing about Urchin Baits but weren’t sure how or when to fish them, this episode breaks everything down—from lure selection and rigging to real-world tournament applications. Joe Mariani and Ty Manarola share the techniques they’re using to consistently catch bass, while offering insights into one of the fastest-growing trends in modern bass fishing. Whether you fish clear reservoirs, grass lakes, or river systems, you’ll come away with practical tips that can help put more fish in the boat.
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.
Subscribe to Bass Angler Magazine print and or digital here
1 hr 12 min
July 15Austin Sandman how to fish the Pacific North West
Guest
Austin Sandman
Pacific Northwest tournament angler

ABA Angler of the Year

Northwest Bass Angler of the Year

Grant County Fish & Wildlife employee

Eastern Washington farmer
Topics Covered
Upcoming BAM Events
Preview of the BAM Super 60 at Tri-Cities

Pro-Am tournament discussion

Why Tri-Cities was selected as the tournament venue

Family-friendly attractions around Richland, Kennewick, and Pasco
Columbia River Tournament Strategy
Expected summertime bass patterns

Predicted winning weight

Smallmouth vs. largemouth opportunities

Current breaks and dam-influenced fishing

Areas where local knowledge can provide an advantage
Best Lures for Tri-Cities
Zara Super Spook

Walking topwater baits

Poppers

Drop shot

Forward-facing sonar techniques

Carolina Rig

Lizards for smallmouth
Pacific Northwest Fisheries
Columbia River

Lake Roosevelt

Potholes Reservoir

Moses Lake

Why Washington offers some of the country’s most overlooked bass fisheries
Beyond Bass Fishing
Sturgeon fishing on the Columbia River

Juvenile sturgeon recovery

Fish and Wildlife conservation efforts

Columbia River dams and fisheries management
Life Outside Tournament Fishing
Wheat farming in Eastern Washington

Center-pivot irrigation systems

Balancing farming with tournament competition

Growing up in the Pacific Northwest
Austin’s Tournament Journey
Starting tournament fishing at age 19

Competing without today’s electronics

Building a successful tournament career

Importance of confidence on the water

Supporting local sponsors and businesses
Growing Tournament Fishing
Why more anglers should fish the BAM Super 60

Opportunities for Pro and Co-Anglers

Building the future of tournament fishing in the Pacific Northwest

Creating a stronger regional bass fishing community

Key Takeaways
Tri-Cities is shaping up to be one of the most exciting stops on the BAM Super 60 schedule.

Local knowledge of current, structure, and seasonal movements could make the difference between cashing a check and winning $50,000.

The Pacific Northwest offers world-class bass fishing that remains underappreciated nationally.

Success in tournament fishing comes from confidence, consistency, and adapting to changing conditions.

Austin’s passion for conservation, farming, and competitive fishing makes him a unique voice in the Northwest bass fishing community.

Watch More BAM Content
Follow the BAM Trail for tournament coverage, live weigh-ins, podcast episodes, and professional bass fishing action from across the West.
Website: https://bamtrail.com
Magazine: https://bassanglermag.com
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.
Subscribe to Bass Angler Magazine print and or digital here
1 hr 2 min
July 01Rich craft Gets his first Super 60 win on Brownlee Reservoir
Brownlee Super 60 Championship
Rich Craft recaps his dominant Brownlee Reservoir victory.

Winning the $50,000 first-place prize.

Why he chose a weight-first strategy instead of chasing numbers.

How advice following a difficult rookie season changed his tournament approach.
Tournament-Winning Pattern
Finding key offshore structure during practice.

Using Forward-Facing Sonar to locate structure instead of individual fish.

Drop shot setup featuring Yamamoto Shad Shape Worms.

Natural shad colors and quarter-ounce weights.

Fishing depths from 20–35 feet.

Catching four of his final-day fish from one key area.
Brownlee Reservoir Breakdown
Why post-spawn conditions lowered tournament weights.

Adjusting to deeper fish.

Smallmouth behavior during late June.

How patience and confidence led to victory.
Sponsorship Changes
Transition from Phoenix Boats to Caymas Boats.

Partnership with Nixon’s Marine.

Toyota of Puyallup sponsorship.

GSM Outdoors and Yamamoto support.

How contingency programs add significant value for professional anglers.
Looking Ahead to Tri-Cities
Expected winning patterns.

Topwater opportunities.

Spinnerbait, swimbait and drop shot techniques.

Potential for giant largemouth and quality smallmouth.

Why Tri-Cities is one of Rich’s favorite tournament destinations.
Rich Craft’s Story
From trout fishing to competitive bass fishing.

Joining a bass club in 2013.

Purchasing his first bass boat in 2017.

Nine career tournament victories.

2024 State Champion.

Qualifying for the Ultimate Angler Championship at Guntersville.
Mark Lassagne Update
Recovery following emergency gallbladder surgery.

Returning for the Tri-Cities Super 60.

Behind-the-scenes look at producing BAM live broadcasts and television coverage.

Plans for continued growth of the BAM Super 60.
Sponsors Mentioned
Nixon’s Marine

Caymas Boats

Toyota of Puyallup

GSM Outdoors

Yamamoto Baits
Topics Covered
Brownlee Reservoir bass fishing

BAM Super 60

Professional bass fishing

Tournament strategy

Forward-Facing Sonar

Drop shot fishing

Smallmouth bass

Post-spawn fishing

Tri-Cities bass fishing

Bass tournament preparation

Professional angler sponsorship

West Coast bass fishing
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.
Subscribe to Bass Angler Magazine print and or digital here
51 min
June 24BAM Podcast: Potholes Pro-Am Championship Recap
Featured Guests
Aaron Ecthernkamp – 2026 BAM Potholes Pro-Am Champion

Adrian Ghione – 2026 BAM Potholes Pro-Am Co-Angler Champion

Carty Schoen – 2nd Place Pro
Topics Covered
Aaron’s winning pattern and key areas

Defending home waters at Potholes Reservoir

How Adrian Ghione stayed on top of the co-angler division from start to finish

Carty Schoen’s tournament strategy and runner-up finish

Best baits and presentations during the event

Grass fishing, offshore fish, and shallow-water opportunities

Adjusting to changing conditions throughout the tournament

Championship Sunday mindset

Biggest fish catches and missed opportunities

Lessons learned from the event

Looking ahead to the BAM Super 60 at Brownlee Reservoir
Tournament Highlights
Aaron Ecthernkamp captured the Pro Division title with 55.86 pounds and earned a new Mercury-powered Vexus 1880 boat package.

Adrian Ghione led the co-angler division throughout the tournament to secure the championship.

Potholes Reservoir showcased multiple productive patterns including shallow cover, grass, reaction baits, and offshore structure fishing.
Listen If You Want To Learn
How to approach Potholes Reservoir in June

Tournament decision-making under pressure

Co-angler strategies for maximizing opportunities

Adapting to changing bass behavior

How top pros locate and manage fish over a three-day event
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.
Subscribe to Bass Angler Magazine print and or digital here
1 hr 2 min