Latest Industry News Archives - Bassmaster https://www.bassmaster.com/category/latest-industry-news/ Pro Bass Tournament Fishing, Bass Fishing Tips & News Mon, 26 Jun 2023 14:52:44 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.2 https://www.bassmaster.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/bass-favicon-removebg-preview.png?w=32 Latest Industry News Archives - Bassmaster https://www.bassmaster.com/category/latest-industry-news/ 32 32 206333197 Introducing the new Minn Kota Ultrex QUEST https://www.bassmaster.com/gear/news/introducing-the-new-minn-kota-ultrex-quest/ Mon, 26 Jun 2023 14:51:03 +0000 https://www.bassmaster.com/?post_type=article&p=1129465 RACINE, Wis. (June 28, 2023) – Fishing’s most trusted trolling motor has been reimagined to help anglers get out earlier, stay out later and fish in places others can’t. The new QUEST series of dual 24 or 36 volt brushless trolling motors was designed for anglers who demand the best from their equipment – even in the harshest environments. With a programmable foot pedal, re-engineered motor and mount, more advanced GPS functionality than ever and even an eco mode to extend battery life, the new Ultrex was specifically designed for bass anglers and the areas they fish.

The Ultrex line features both traditional brushed options as well as the upgraded QUEST variations.  Every new Ultrex model features an updated and integrated GPS-enabled navigation system which is fully compatible with Humminbird fish finders without the need for additional steps or cables. The change simplifies the product line and allows for Humminbird connectivity right out of the box. Anglers who opt for a QUEST model will benefit from the added torque and runtime of the new brushless technology platform as well.

New Features for All Ultrex Models:

  • NEW Enhanced GPS Suite Including Drift Mode to allow anglers to spend more time fishing and less time on boat control
    • Drift Mode: combats current and wind by automatically adjusting speed and direction to keep the boat on a true drift. Drift Mode acts as a gps drift sock eliminating the need for cumbersome ropes or shallow water anchor paddles
  • Out of the Box connection to Humminbird via the One-Boat Network by including all necessary adapters required for networking without additional need for setup
  • One App for Everything – the One-Boat Network App can control everything on the boat from the trolling motor and shallow water anchors to the Humminbird head units
  • Enhanced Built-in 2D Sonar with Dual Spectrum CHIRP adds Humminbird’s unrivaled sonar clarity to every Minn Kota motor

Minn Kota Ultrex QUEST

QUEST models of Ultrex include all of the same updates as brushed options with the addition of an all new technology platform – QUEST. These dual 24 or 36 volt brushless motors boast 30% longer runtime on a given charge and up to 50% greater torque.*  QUEST gives anglers everything they love about Ultrex with a more robust and powerful brushless motor capable of enduring the most punishing environments.

New Features for Ultrex QUEST Models:

  • Dual 24 or 36 volt Brushless Motor with up to 30% longer runtime and 50% greater torque*
    • Up to 30% longer runtime on a single charge provides anglers more time on the water
    • Up to 50% greater torque means more precise control in wind and waves and the ability to shed weeds more effectively
  • Redesigned and Upgraded Mount to accommodate the additional thrust and torque of the lower unit
  • Carbon Fiber Infused Shaft for enhanced durability while maintaining flexibility to protect the bow of an angler’s boat
  • Peak Performance and Efficiency from Updated Propellors which maximize torque throughout the speed range
  • New lift-assist assembly to make getting the motor in and out of the watereffortless
  • Real-Time Battery Monitoring System lets anglers know time until empty at a given speed setting and prompts users to enter a power saving eco modewhen batteries reach 20% charge
  • No Loss of Power: constant power throughout the day with no drop in motor performance as battery voltage decreases over the length of a fishing day
  • One-Boat Network Programmable Button: customized presets to include stow and deploy Minn Kota shallow water anchors, mark a waypoint, or engage autopilot

MSRP for brushed models: $2999.99-$3499.99

MSRP for QUEST Models: $3699.99-$4199.99

Available: July 1

Click HERE to see the new and upgraded line of Ultrex trolling motors in action.

*Compared to 24 volt brushed motor at maximum speed setting

About Minn Kota

JOHNSON OUTDOORS FISHING is comprised of the Humminbird®, Minn Kota® and Cannon® brands. Humminbird is a leading global innovator and manufacturer of marine electronics products including fish finders, multifunction displays, autopilots, ice flashers, and premium cartography products. Minn Kota is the world’s leading manufacturer of electric trolling motors, as well as a complete line of shallow water anchors, battery chargers and marine accessories. Cannon is the leader in controlled-depth fishing and includes a full line of downrigger products and accessories.

Visit Humminbird at www.humminbird.com

Visit Minn Kota at www.minnkotamotors.com

Visit Cannon at www.cannondownriggers.com

JOHNSON OUTDOORS is a leading global outdoor recreation company that inspires more people to experience the awe of the great outdoors with innovative, top-quality products. The company designs, manufactures and markets a portfolio of winning, consumer-preferred brands across four categories: Watercraft, Fishing, Diving and Camping.

Visit Johnson Outdoors at www.johnsonoutdoors.com

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Minn Kota announces a new lineup of trolling motors https://www.bassmaster.com/gear/news/minn-kota-announces-a-new-lineup-of-trolling-motors/ Mon, 26 Jun 2023 14:49:09 +0000 https://www.bassmaster.com/?post_type=article&p=1129457 RACINE, Wis. (JUN 26, 2023) –Since 1934 Minn Kota has been known for developing real, fishable features that help anglers explore new water, go further, and put more fish in the boat. The best trolling motors available just got even better with a complete restage of Minn Kota’s bow-mount motor lineup and the introduction of QUEST technology. New and upgraded Ultrex™, Ulterra®, Instinct, Terrova®, Riptide Terrova®, PowerDrive™, and Riptide PowerDrive™ bow mount trolling motors are being reintroduced with a brand new look and updated technology suite full of angler-friendly enhancements.

In addition to all the GPS navigational features anglers have come to expect from Minn Kota like Spot-Lock and Follow-the-contour, all of these new additions to the motor lineup will feature enhanced boat control tools for anglers – no matter their preferred species. Whether fresh or saltwater and regardless of skill level or pursuit, Minn Kota’s redesigned line of trolling motors has an option for any angler looking for bulletproof reliability and unmatched performance on the water.

New Features for All Bow-Mount Models:

  • NEW Enhanced GPS Suite Including Drift Mode to allow anglers to spend more time fishing and less time on boat control
    • Drift Mode: combats current and wind by automatically adjusting speed and direction to keep the boat on a true drift. Drift Mode acts as a gps drift sock eliminating the need for cumbersome ropes or shallow water anchor paddles
    • Improved Follow-the-Contour functionality: allows for better LakeMaster and CoastMaster integration to stay on the desired course.
    • Dodge Mode: allows anglers to quickly leave auto navigation mode to manually steer through waves and around structures and then resume navigating without resetting their route.
  • Out of the Box connection to Humminbird via the One-Boat Network by including all necessary adapters required for networking without additional need for setup
  • One App for Everything – the One-Boat Network App can control everything on the boat from the trolling motor and shallow water anchors to the Humminbird head units
  • Enhanced Built-in 2D Sonar with Dual Spectrum CHIRP adds Humminbird’s unrivaled sonar clarity to every Minn Kota motor

Minn Kota QUEST Technology

Motors with QUEST technology might resemble some of Minn Kota’s most popular and trusted models, but have been completely redesigned from the ground up to tackle the toughest environments.  QUEST motors feature a dual 24 or 36 volt brushless lower unit, a carbon fiber-infused upgraded shaft and reinforced brackets and pivot points. Boasting 30% longer runtime and up to 50% more torque*, these motors are built for the most demanding anglers, helping them get out earlier, stay out later and fish in wind, waves and current that others can’t.

Minn Kota Ultrex, Ulterra, Instinct, Terrova, and Riptide Terrova motors will all now be available with QUEST technology.  With available shaft lengths up to 100”, Riptide Terrova and Instinct QUEST motors were made to tackle the toughest offshore environments on bigger boats than ever before.

With improved and upgraded components such as mounts, brackets, shafts, and pivot points, the motors are built to handle the increase in power in the harshest environments. QUEST motors include an upgraded lift assist assembly for effortless stow and deployment, carbon fiber shafts with increased lengths, Auto Park to automatically turn the motor when stowing, new propellers to cut through heavy vegetation while maintaining peak power output and fewer moving parts to prevent unnecessary wear over the life of the product.

New Features for QUEST Models:

  • Dual 24 or 36 volt Brushless Motor with up to 30% longer runtime and 50% greater torque*
    • Up to 30% longer runtime on a single charge provides anglers more time on the water
    • Up to 50% greater torque means more precise control in wind and waves and the ability to shed weeds more effectively
  • Redesigned and Upgraded Mount to accommodate the additional thrust and torque of the lower unit
  • Carbon Fiber Infused Shaft for enhanced durability while maintaining flexibility to protect the bow of an angler’s boat
  • Peak Performance and Efficiency from Updated Propellors which maximize torque throughout the speed range
  • New lift-assist assembly to make getting the motor in and out of the watereffortless (select models)
  • Real-Time Battery Monitoring System lets anglers know time until empty at a given speed setting and prompts users to enter a power saving eco modewhen batteries reach 20% charge
  • No Loss of Power: constant power throughout the day with no drop in motor performance as battery voltage decreases of the length of a fishing day
  • One-Boat Network Programmable Button: customized presets to include stow and deploy Minn Kota shallow water anchors, mark a waypoint, or engage autopilot
  • QUEST Technology availability: Ultrex, Ulterra, Instinct, Terrova, Riptide Terrova

Click HERE to see the new and upgraded line of bow-mount trolling motors in action.

*Compared to 24 volt brushed motor when run at maximum speed setting

About Minn Kota

JOHNSON OUTDOORS FISHING is comprised of the Humminbird®, Minn Kota® and Cannon® brands. Humminbird is a leading global innovator and manufacturer of marine electronics products including fish finders, multifunction displays, autopilots, ice flashers, and premium cartography products. Minn Kota is the world’s leading manufacturer of electric trolling motors, as well as a complete line of shallow water anchors, battery chargers and marine accessories. Cannon is the leader in controlled-depth fishing and includes a full line of downrigger products and accessories.

Visit Humminbird at www.humminbird.com

Visit Minn Kota at www.minnkotamotors.com

Visit Cannon at www.cannondownriggers.com

JOHNSON OUTDOORS is a leading global outdoor recreation company that inspires more people to experience the awe of the great outdoors with innovative, top-quality products. The company designs, manufactures and markets a portfolio of winning, consumer-preferred brands across four categories: Watercraft, Fishing, Diving and Camping.

Visit Johnson Outdoors at www.johnsonoutdoors.com

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Unlock the Lake: Finding success on the Sabine River https://www.bassmaster.com/latest-industry-news/video/humminbird-unlock-the-lake-finding-success-on-the-sabine-river/ Thu, 22 Jun 2023 06:00:17 +0000 https://www.bassmaster.com/video/humminbird-unlock-the-lake-finding-success-on-the-sabine-river/ In the Humminbird Unlock the Lake at the Sabine River, take a look at a few of the top competitors and their game plans from the week.

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Joey Nania wins St. Croix Bassmaster Open at Lake Eufaula (OK) with 52 pounds, 8 ounces https://www.bassmaster.com/latest-industry-news/video/joey-nania-wins-st-croix-bassmaster-open-at-lake-eufaula-ok-with-52-pounds-8-ounces/ Sat, 17 Jun 2023 20:57:30 +0000 https://www.bassmaster.com/video/joey-nania-wins-st-croix-bassmaster-open-at-lake-eufaula-ok-with-52-pounds-8-ounces/ 1127614 Mike Iaconelli and The Ike Foundation® announce Pro Am winners and share family fishing fun https://www.bassmaster.com/latest-industry-news/news/mike-iaconelli-and-the-ike-foundation-announce-pro-am-winners-and-share-family-fishing-fun/ Thu, 15 Jun 2023 16:51:49 +0000 https://www.bassmaster.com/?post_type=article&p=1125802 June 15, 2023, Pittsgrove, NJ. The Ike Foundation® recently held its 8th Annual Ike’s Pro-Am Bass Tournament on the Chesapeake Bay in North East Maryland with over 100 registered boats.  Anglers from all over the region came out to support The Ike Foundation®’s biggest fundraiser of the year with all proceeds going to support their mission to get more kids fishing and in the outdoors.

Anglers reported that it was a bit of a challenging bite, yet the top six bags were over 19lbs.  Keith and Nate Cowan, longtime supporters of The Ike Foundation® that have fished in every Pro Am finally got their big win with 22.64 lbs. The Cowan brothers took home a BassCat Bobcat with a Yamaha motor as well as lots of other prizes, generously donated by sponsors of The Ike Foundation®. Those sponsors include Pro-Guide Batteries, Flambeau, Berkley, Mystery Tackle Box, The Bass University, Lowrance, Rod Warrior, Tackle Warehouse, AFTCO, TH Marine, Power-Pole, Nines, Rapala and Rod Warrior.

Ike Foundation® Pro-Am Bass Tournament Winners:

First Place: Keith and Nate Cowan-22.64 lbs

Second Place: Terry Roberson and Dan Downer-21.63 lbs

Third Place: Chris Smith and Eric Boehm-21.24 lbs

Fourth Place: Bob Austin and Jim Clacher-19.94 lbs

Fifth Place: Vic Auriemma and Logan Kuhrmann-19.77 lbs

Six Place: Jay and Josh Burger-19.45 lbs

Lunker: Nick Lepone and Teimuraz Balachvili-6.02 lbs

Free Family Fun Fest on the Chesapeake!

While the anglers were busy competing in the Pro Am, The Ike Foundation® also hosted the Free Family Fun Fest across the park along the banks of the Chesapeake.  30+ volunteers from NJ, PA and MD came to hand out Abu Garcia rods and reels and Flambeau tackle boxes and work with kids on fishing skills. Catches of the day included a variety of species like bass, perch, blue gill, catfish and even carp. Each child at the event went home with a brand-new rod and reel, a Flambeau tackle box, and an awesome bag of fishing goodies. Many of these kids were introduced to fishing for the first time that day and our hope is that they left with a newfound interest in the sport.

Please check out additional images on The Ike Foundation® Facebook and Instagram pages!

For more information about The Ike Foundation® and their programs, events or to make a donation go to https://theikefoundation.org/

Follow The Ike Foundation® on Facebook and Instagram @TheIkeFoundation and on Twitter @FoundationIke

The Ike Foundation® appreciates the generous donations from individuals and sponsors, including Toyota, Abu Garcia, Bass Cat Boats, Hobie, Yamaha, Flambeau, AFTCO, Rapala and many, many more.  A full list of sponsors can be found at https://theikefoundation.org/sponsors.

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The 12th annual Toyota Bonus Bucks Owners Event set for Pickwick Lake in October https://www.bassmaster.com/latest-industry-news/news/12th-annual-toyota-bonus-bucks-owners-event-takes-place-on-pickwick-lake-in-october/ Wed, 14 Jun 2023 15:30:49 +0000 https://www.bassmaster.com/?post_type=article&p=1125266 Florence, Ala. – The 12th annual Toyota Bonus Bucks Owners event will be held at Pickwick Lake in Florence, Ala., the weekend of Oct. 21-22, 2023 on the iconic Tennessee River where teams will need to aim for a solid 20-pound limit of smallmouth bass to take home the $5,000 first place check from this No Entry Fee event.

Covering more than 53 miles, Pickwick’s iconic waters flow through three states, including Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee, a region that is home to a huge number of loyal Toyota Bonus Bucks members.

The weekend kicks off Saturday afternoon with a registration meeting at McFarland Park where Team Toyota pro anglers will be on hand to greet guests. B.A.S.S. tournament staff will conduct the tournament and be on-site Saturday afternoon for angler registration, where participants will receive a generous amount of free gear, along with a complimentary dinner.

Again, guests pay no entry fee, and the top 31 placing teams on Sunday are guaranteed a tournament paycheck. Plus, only one of the two team members must be currently registered in the Toyota Bonus Bucks Program to be eligible to compete in the event. The eligible team member must own or lease a 2019 or newer Toyota Tundra, Tacoma, Sequoia or 4Runner.

“Of all the events Toyota is honored to be a part of, very few feature the genuine fellowship the annual Bonus Bucks Owners event brings forth. It’s always so fun spending time with people who depend on our vehicles to pursue their passion for fishing,” says Steve Appelbaum, National Manager, Sponsorship Integration, Integrated Marketing Operations, Toyota Motor North America.

Visit toyotafishing.com for more program details. Bassmaster Elite Series, MLF Bass Pro Tour and Pro Circuit anglers are not eligible to participate in the Toyota Owners Tournament. Participants are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible for this prize-rich event. Registration is limited to 300 teams.

To register, visit: ownersevent.toyotatrucksbonusbucks.com. If you have questions, or need assistance, contact the Toyota Bonus Bucks Headquarters via email: bonusbucks@dynamicsponsorships.com.

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Mike Iaconelli introduces new Ike LIVE format https://www.bassmaster.com/latest-industry-news/news/mike-iaconelli-introduces-new-ike-live-format/ Thu, 01 Jun 2023 18:41:25 +0000 https://www.bassmaster.com/?post_type=article&p=1120069 June 1, 2023-Pittsgrove, NJ-Professional Edge Fishing is thrilled to announce the launch of Ike LIVE 2.0, a brand-new chapter in the history of our beloved fishing show & podcast. Get ready to dive into an exciting experience as we introduce a fresh format and exciting new guests.

This revamped version promises to take your fishing enthusiasm to new heights. Brace yourself for a captivating 1-on-1 in-studio setup, where our host, Mike Iaconelli, will engage in intriguing conversations with some of the biggest names in the fishing world.

Ike LIVE 2.0 aims to foster an intimate atmosphere that allows for deeper discussions and insights. By adopting this format, Mike is able to delve into the minds of the guests, unraveling their strategies, techniques, and personal experiences in the angling realm. Get ready to feel like you’re sitting right there in the studio, listening to the conversation firsthand. It’s a streamlined, impactful one hour format that is already getting rave reviews.

While we embark on this exciting new journey, we haven’t forgotten the elements that made Ike Live a fan favorite. Rest assured; we will be bringing back familiar faces from the old show. The charismatic Brian “The Carpenter” and “The Dean” & Stormtrooper will make appearances from time to time. The perfect blend of the old and the new awaits you!

The inaugural episode of Ike LIVE 2.0 features Ike and the 2023 Bassmaster Classic Champion “Gussy” Gustafson! Prepare to be captivated as he shares his Bassmaster Classic journey, highlights, and secrets behind his success. Watch here Ike LIVE 2.0 Episode 1 Gustafson and witness the incredible connection between Gussy and Mike Iaconelli. Despite being champions of the prestigious Bassmaster Classic two decades apart, their shared passion for bass fishing and competition unites them. Witness the meeting of two fishing champions, as they explore the similarities and differences of their journeys to Classic victory.

Episode 2 of Ike LIVE 2.0 features an inspiring interview with Mark Menendez, a longtime angler on the Bassmaster Elite Series.  Mark shares his fishing strategies at Lay Lake as well as personal challenges he’s overcome that now motivate him to keep competing and teaching the next generation of anglers how to do the same. You can watch here Ike LIVE 2.0 Episode 2 Menendez. Episode 3 of Ike LIVE 2.0 with Bernie Schultz will air on Monday, June 5th.  Ike will explore Schultz’s professional success as well as his varied interests and talents well outside of fishing.

You can watch the podcast on the Ike LIVEand Mike Iaconelli websites and listen wherever you find your podcasts.

Subscribe to the Mike Iaconelli Fishing YouTube channel for notifications on upcoming episodes. You can also follow him on Facebook @MikeIaconelliFishing, on Instagram @MikeIaconelli and on Twitter @MikeIaconelli as well as the same Ike LIVE social media channels.

Ike LIVE sponsors include Mystery Tackle Box, AFTCO, Tackle Warehouse and Hobie,

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Bass University Presents: Kayak Bass University https://www.bassmaster.com/kayak/news/bass-university-presents-kayak-bass-university/ Wed, 31 May 2023 13:12:47 +0000 https://www.bassmaster.com/?post_type=article&p=1119153 Bass University, the leading provider of bass fishing education is proud to announce Kayak Bass University. We are excited to work with the top professional kayak anglers in the country and expand the Bass University program into kayak bass fishing. On May 30, 2023, Kayak Bass University training courses are live on bassu.tv. Anglers can sign up at www.bassu.tv/kayak.

Bass University is committed to providing anglers with the knowledge, techniques, and strategies required to catch more & bigger bass. Our team of seasoned and accomplished professional anglers shares their expertise, insider tips, and secrets of the trade, helping you develop the skills necessary to succeed.

Many Bass University students love to enjoy this amazing sport from a kayak and have consistently requested that Bass University bring training classes to the program tailored for kayak anglers. Kayak Bass University will do exactly that. Offering classroom and on-the-water seminars with the top professional kayak anglers in the world.

Whether you’re a seasoned kayak angler or a beginner, our comprehensive curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including lure & color selections, seasonal patterns, understanding electronics, breaking down structure & cover, tournament-winning strategies, and much more. Our instructors will guide you through techniques that can be applied anywhere, helping you unlock the secrets to consistently catching bass.

“Kayak fishing is one of the fastest growing segments in all of fishing! It’s not only accessible and affordable, but also provides a unique, exciting way to fish for bass! As a kayak angler myself, I can tell you that there are many differences and variations on how to bass fish from a kayak. Utilizing some of the BEST kayak pro anglers in the world, this new Bass U series is sure to give Kayak anglers an advantage and help shave the learning curve!” said Mike Iaconelli, co-founder of Bass University.

“We have a committed and passionate group of kayak bass anglers at the Bass University that have requested Bass University-style kayak training. With the release of Kayak Bass University, students can be confident that they are getting the top kayak fishing training available in the industry as they pursue their passion for bass fishing from a kayak,” said Pete Gluszek (The Dean) co-founder of Bass University.

Bass University Kayak Training is Available Now

  • Ryan Lambert – 2020 Hobie Tournament of Champions, 2021 Hobie BOS Champion Topic – Rigging a Kayak
  • Jody Queen – Hobie BOS Grand Champion, Hobie Worlds Qualifier Topic – How to fish out of a Kayak.
  • Drew Gregory – 2022 Bassmaster AOY, 2020 Hobie BOS AOY, 6 National wins in 2022

Topic – Jig Fishing Strategies

Additional kayak bass fishing courses will be released weekly at bassu.tv and include a multitude of important topics such as Launching a Kayak, Lipless Cranking-Kayak Style, Fishing the Ned Rig, Chatterbait vs Swim Jig, How to Approach Targets from a Kayak and many more.

Bass University is offering new members a 30-day free trial or 33% off an annual subscription that also includes a prize pack valued at over $50 (Kayak Bass University Hat, and a Tackle Pack including Rapala, Zman, VMC and Big Bite Baits). Included with a Bass University subscription are member benefits on a multitude of products including Rapala, Storm, VMC, Cashion Rods, Aqua Vu, Missile Baits, Hobie Eyewear, Cortland Line, and much more. Sign up at bassu.tv/kayak.

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Bill Lowen’s Locked Down Game Plan at Lake Seminole https://www.bassmaster.com/latest-industry-news/video/bill-lowens-locked-down-gameplan-at-lake-seminole/ Thu, 18 May 2023 21:33:50 +0000 https://www.bassmaster.com/video/bill-lowens-locked-down-gameplan-at-lake-seminole/ In this Minn Kota Locked Down Game Plan, Bill Lowen explains how some of his equipment helps him be a better angler up shallow and adapt to different scenarios.

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YETI Hot Seat – Santee Cooper Lakes https://www.bassmaster.com/latest-industry-news/video/yeti-hot-seat-santee-cooper-lakes/ Wed, 17 May 2023 21:17:10 +0000 https://www.bassmaster.com/video/yeti-hot-seat-santee-cooper-lakes/ Santee Cooper Lakes was too tough to tame for the Top 10 throughout the week but a few anglers rose above. Luke Palmer dominated the YETI Hot Seat en route to his first Elite Series victory.

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