Kayak Fishing ClassicS

Bramblet Holds Lead, Smith and Meakin Give Chase

2011-09-26T10:37:00.000-07:00

The Tampa Bay Slam Classic was held Saturday, September 24 and Bob Bramlet managed to retain his series lead for the fourth tournament in a row. Richard Smith won the slam tournament by ten points or one eighth of an inch over Marty Meakin. Bramblet came in third place without a slam allowing the field to close the gap on his once insurmountable lead with just one more tournament remaining on the Kayak Fishing ClassicS regular series year. The Series Championship will be on the line at the Southern Redfish Classic scheduled for October 8.

Smith and Meakin each caught a nice redfish, trout and snook for the slam with Smith's trout measuring just a bit longer than Meakins for the extra ten points which made the difference between first place and second. Good thing that they are friends with over $8,000.00 in sponsor prizes on the table. Bramblet managed a trout and a redfish but no snook which cost him plenty of Series Points at the end of the day.

Can Bob Bramblet be caught? The answer to that is yes, he can and it could happen. The series consists of ten open tournaments followed by an invitational national championship in November. The Series Champion is determined by contestants earning series points during each of the ten tournaments. The angler who earns the most points wins the series, a truck full of gear and a Diablo Paddlesports Kayak, not to mention the bragging rights for a year. It is much more difficult then it sounds as the series tournaments are held along the Coastal Gulf States and the contestants frequently fish in areas that they are unfamiliar with.

The top ten anglers have a shot to paddle away with the title and all of the goodies. Bramblet needs to slam the Southern which is a three redfish slam tournament. If he does not, who knows what will happen or who will win. Also on the line is the Angler of the Year Award not to place any pressure on anyone.

We will see how it all paddles out in just two weeks. Good Luck and Good Fishing to all.

High Roller Lures Gets It

2011-09-13T05:45:00.000-07:00

Cory Mattox follows the Kayak Fishing ClassicS Tournament Series and uses High Roller Lures for two simple reasons. High Roller gets it. Price and Performance are a must for the competitive kayak angler.
Listen to what Cory has to say about them in a conversation with the ClassicS NDT, Capt. Pat.

RiverBum Flies Gets It

2011-09-13T05:36:00.000-07:00

RiverBum Flies really gets it. Anglers are going to fish no matter what but they will look for alternatives to lower expenses without sacrificing quality and performance. Take a look at the video recorded between Captain Pat and tournament angler Rick Smith as they talk about fly fishing the Kayak Fishing ClassicS Tournament Series.

Bramblet Wins with Ocean Waves

2011-06-08T12:29:00.000-07:00

Bramblet Wins with Ocean Waves

Being able to see through the water while sight fishing the Kayak Fishing ClassicS Tournament Series, is a ‘Must Have’. Just ask Bob Bramblet about that and he’ll tell you all about it. Bramblet won the Tarpon Fever Classic in Sarasota last weekend and he attributes much of his success to Ocean Waves Sunglasses. Bob won a pair of Ocean Waves in a previous Classic and could not believe the deference that they make.

The anglers launched their kayaks at 5:30 AM on June 4th and headed into the sunlight as it rose over Sarasota Bay. Bramblet put on his OW’s and noticed that he could see fish even in the low light conditions and the glare of the morning sun. “Very Impressive” “Fantastic” “Unbelievable” were a few of the descriptive expressions that he spoke.

Bob had a huge day in front of him with a great deal on the line. Bob has steadily moved up in the 2011 Series Standings and was looking to continue that trend. To do so he had to catch a redfish, a trout and a tarpon, the Silver King, all from a kayak and all on artificial baits. That is a lot of fishing under pressure and Bob had been looking forward to it.

Around 9:30 AM my phone rang while I was setting up for the awards, hosted by The Old Salty Dog restaurant in Sarasota on City Island. What a great place for a Classic I was thinking as I answered my phone. Bob told me that he was finished fishing. He had caught all three fish, photographed and released them and was ready to breakfast. He showed up a little later and we filmed an interview with him while we had some time.

Bob told me how fantastic he could see through the water with the Ocean Waves and that he had never seen anything like it. He attributed his early success to being able to see the fish through the early low light conditions and then the glare that a sunrise puts on the water. Bob picked his fish, cast to them and the rest was history. We didn’t know it at the time, but Bramblet did very well in this Classic.

Weigh in was at 1:00 PM and Bramblet was first as others lined up to begin the process. By 1:30 PM I knew the results and was very impressed. Bob Bramblet wishes came to light by his own hand and efforts along with having the right tools to do the job.

The Awards Ceremony began by announcing the fifth place winner and worked slowly toward the number one position. Somewhere between the third and fourth place announcements Bramblet began to wonder if he had placed. The second place winner was announced and hopes were dashing. Then the First Place Overall announcement began and Bob Bramblet’s name rang out. His excitement was contagious.

The awards were made and he never stopped smiling, and for good reason. This victory has now moved Bob into First Place in the 2011 Series Standings of the Kayak Fishing ClassicS. There has been a lead change six times this year, one each tournament, and Bob is going to work hard to hang on to this much sought after position on the leader board. Congratulations Bob from Tropic Bay & Ocean Waves.

Lusk 'Bringing It' in a Diablo

2011-06-08T10:43:00.000-07:00

William Lusk, a young angler on the Kayak Fishing ClassicS Tournament Series trail, is ‘Bringing It’ as they say, to some very experienced tournament anglers. It’s not by luck either, as the competitor has been doing his home work around the clock. Lusk has made a total commitment to becoming a top contestant among some of the very best that the Gulf Coast area has to offer. He saw early on the huge advantages that a Diablo Paddlesports Kayak affords and purchased one.

The Diablo allows William to stand up and sight fish from his kayak and also allows him to get into places that some kayaks can’t go. He used these features last weekend in the ClassicS, Tarpon Fever Classic which was hosted by The Old Salty Dog Restaurant in Sarasota, Florida. The area is fantastic for tarpon fishing which was one of the species on the score board for the event. The anglers were issued a DNA Kit provided by the FWC Marine Research Institute, so they could gather samples of tarpon DNA which provides a fingerprint of the fish for research.

The young hungry lion launched his Diablo at 5:30 AM in pursuit of redfish, trout and of course tarpon. He scored his trout early and moved on to redfish. Light was just breaking and he was hoping to spot tailing reds or tarpon coming into the pass for breakfast. William got his red later in the morning, photographed it and released the fish as all fish are in the series. Now it was time to locate the big challenge, the Silver King.

Lusk has been learning a great deal about inshore fishing by following the ClassicS Series and competing at a high level. He also has been spending his off the water time reading and studying the various species the series fishes for. He has raised his knowledge base considerably and it is showing on the leader board in the Series Standings. He has steadily been advancing toward the top after every tournament and a win in the Tarpon Fever Classic would help him considerably.

William had never fished for tarpon before and he knew that there was a lot too it. He hunted and hunted trying to locate them. The conditions were perfect and he was in the right spot. He could be seen from the Old Salty Dog by the national tournament director of the ClassicS, Captain Pat Horrigan who commented that he was on a tarpon. Capt. Pat could see the tarpon and Lusk was in the perfect position for a connection but it just didn’t happen.

“Tarpon can be funny that way” said Capt. Pat, “you can cast to them, and they will take a look and reject your offering. I think he would have had success had he thrown some feathers to her.”

As it turned out William Lusk had a great day in his Diablo. He finished the Classic in Second Place which propelled him to Sixth Place in the Series Standings and earned him a kayak full of sponsor gear. Included in the gear were a new TFO Fly Rod and a Redington Delta Fly Reel which he greatly needed.

We will be keeping an eye on the angler and we are sure to see more good things from this young gentleman at the Green Key Classic on July 9. Congratulations William on your great win.

ProAxis makes ClassicS Debute in 10,000 Islands

2011-04-14T14:00:00.000-07:00

Hardy & Greys, a legend in fly rods joined the Kayak Fishing ClassicS for the 2011 Sereis Year and will be awarded their new PorAxis fly rod in May or June. In the interum the company awarded their fantastic Zane series of fly rods at the first three ClassiS of 2011. On April 9th the Kayak Fishing ClassicS held the
10,000 Islands Marker 8 Classic in Goodland, Florida at the famous 10,000 Islands. the event featured fishing for snook, redfish and tarpon and $8,000.00 in sponsor gear prizes.

Hardy & Greys was able to make one of the new highly anticipated ProAxis rod available for this tournament and it caused quite a stir in the fly fishing division. The rod was up for grabs as the Largest Tarpon Award and the poons were everywhere you looked. The contestants launched and paddled away at first hint of light with high hopes and it came true for one skillful angler.

Ryan Alise, a medical student who is just getting into fly fishing hooked onto a 100 pound tarpon that took him for a Florida Sleigh Ride that lasted for 20 minutes before breaking off at the leader. Little did he know, but Ryan had just won his dream rod. Many contestants hooked up on the Silver King but none long enough for a photo.

The ProAxis was designed in part, by tarpon fly angling great Andy Mill who is a five time winner of the Gold Cup Award. Andy's input played a big part in the design characteristics of the new fly rod series and Ryan knew all about it. To have won such a fabulous fly rod was a thrill for the student and he can't wait for the ClassicS tarpon tournament in June.

We'll keep you updated on Ryans progress and we know he will put the new ProAxis to heavy use between classes. Great job Ryan and Congratulations!

Wind & Lady Anglers Notable at ClassicS

2011-02-16T08:04:00.000-08:00

On February 12th the Kayak Fishing ClassicS held their second tournament of a scheduled eleven tournaments in 2011. The Weedon Island Mammoth Redfish & Trout Classic began at first light with the contestants launching from the island. All were in pursuit of large redfish and trout in hopes of winning the tournament and adding to their point’s total. There were familiar faces as well of several new contestants including two lady anglers. The weather was on the chilly side and the wind did not help the comfort level. As the day unfolded, the weather warmed and so did the fishing, at least for some.

Shawn Neurath of Team SlotLimit Radio/ Diablo Paddlesports caught the largest redfish of the day measuring 25.75 inches on a D.O.A. Lure. Shawn was in the Bait Bonus for extra points and earned First Place. He was nicely rewarded from Aqua Bound Paddles with the Big Fish Award and a huge collection of top sponsor gear for his efforts. Shawn is one of two members of the team and has now moved into first place in the Series Standings after two events.

Holly Arnold captured Second Place using High Roller Lures for the Bait Bonus and securing her first tournament win. Her victory also makes her the ClassicS First Lady Angler Winner and earned her some fantastic gear from the ClassicS sponsors. Holly was caught off guard and was totally surprised. The crowd cheered and celebrated her victory when her name was announced at the awards ceremony located at Whiskey Joes in Tampa. Holly was so excited that she leapt from her seat and ran to the awards ceremony table for her official recognition and sponsor awards. Many photographs were taken and Holly rewarded all with her great smile and charm. Congratulations Holly and we are sure we will see more from her.

Kelly Phillips scored more series points by hooking Third Place with a nice trout and the D.O.A. Bait Bonus. Kelly is off to a great start after fishing both the tournaments and looks toward the top of the leader board in 5th place in series standings. Kelly’s endurance of the early morning wind and cold paid off later in the day. The north winds kept much of the tide offshore. It was a tough day of fishing but Kelly landed his winning trout and some great sponsor gear that can be seen on the ClassicS website in the photo album.

James Foy also had a nice trout and won Fourth Place. James caught his fish on a D.O.A. Lure for the Bait Bonus earning him a position in the series standings. James did very well in the 2010 Series Year and looks to top that in the 2011 edition. James earned a very nice catch of sponsor gear of which he shares with his fishing partner. James introduced his wife Jessica Brady to the fun of tournament fishing with this event and she quickly earned Series Points. Jessica had a great time and caught fish but they were just a bit too small. Jessica is looking forward to fishing the series with her husband.

Capturing Fifth Place with a very nice trout was Mark Knowles, the Defending National Champion. Mark, a great sportsman, also battled the wind all day. His efforts finally paid off late as the water warmed. Mark was rewarded with some very nice sponsor gear including the Bending Branches Paddles Big Fish Award. Mark caught the largest trout but was unable to take advantage of the Bait Bonus for the extra points. We congratulate Mark who is now in Third Place in the Series Standings and is looking forward to next month’s tournament at Fort DeSoto. To learn more about the ClassicS please visit www.KayakFishingClassicS.com

And the Winner Is...Everyone

2011-01-19T13:15:00.000-08:00

The Kayak Fishing ClassicS set sail on the 2011 Series Year on January 15th with the Monster Redfish Classic and it was a great event to say the least. Who won you ask? The contestants? Certainly. The Sponsors? You bet. The ClassicS? Absolutely. The fishing was challenging but good and the weather was near perfect for the opening tournament of the national series. Let’s take a look at the winning anglers and sponsors.

Team SlotLimit Radio/Diablo Paddlesports members, Derick Burgos and Shawn Neurath had a big day. Derick Burgos won first place and the Aqua-Bound big fish award with a 29.5” redfish. Burgos also scored a 24.75” redfish and both were caught on D.O.A. Lures for the Bait Bonus. Shawn Neurath took second place with a 27.75” red and a 22.5” red also taken on a D.O.A. soft plastic lures. In third place was JB Smith with a nice red of 24” taken on D.O.A. for the bonus and a 27”red with no bonus. In fourth place was Mark Knowles, the defending national champion of 2010. Mark entered a nice 26.5” red and earned the Bait Bonus using D.O.A. soft plastics. Walt Ruda and Olin Satterfield rounded out the top five winners. Ruda entered with a 21.5” redfish on D.O.A. for the bonus and Satterfield recorded an 18” and 22” redfish. It was a great effort by Olin in some chilly waters, but there was no bait bonus earned by him. Had he been using D.O.A. or High Roller Lures or RiverBum Flies he would have earned 40 more points and there would be no tie.

All of the contestants earned series points that count toward the Series Championship and an invitation to the National Championship Classic in November. Some of the prizes that were awarded included Ocean Waves Sunglasses, a Hardy Zane fly rod, a Redington Delta fly reel, Deep South Fishing Rods, pliers by Dr. Slick, Temple Fork Outfitters fly rod and TFO pack spin rod, High Roller Lures, Talic kayak storage systems racks, Bending Branches paddle, PrecisionPak gear, Princeton Tec digital lamps, Plano, D.O.A. Lures, Aqua-Bound paddle, Teeny Fly Line, RiverBum Flies, Scotty rod holders, Steve Whitlock Game Fish Art, Reel Dreams Fish Prints, Wildlife from Scratch box art. Diablo Paddlesports will be awarding one of their kayaks to the Series Champion in October and another Diablo to the winner of the invitational national championship in November.

The Series is underway and off to a great start. See you in February and learn more on the ClassicS website at www.KayakFishingClassicS.com

Mark Knowles Wins National Championship Classic

2010-11-24T13:21:00.000-08:00

With his game face on, Mark Knowles headed out into the Gulf of Mexico on Saturday morning with one thing in mind, catch a monster redfish. Well he did just that. and had to do it again on Sunday to win. There was a lot at steak in the Kayak Fishing ClassicS, National Championship Classic two day tournament presented by Freedom Hawk Kayaks and Yuenling Beer.

The anglers enjoyed the freedom of the fish where you like format on day one. Anglers from all over came to take their shot at over $8,000.00 in sponsor gear and cash prizes. On Sunday, day two the anglers had to fish Tampa Bay which is known for very large redfish at this time of year. Knowles chalked up a nice 28.25 " redfish and caught a good night sleep. Day two would soon be on the horizon.

Sunday morning came early and Knowles was back on the water in Tampa Bay looking for big reds. A number of contestants including Knowles found huge schools of redfish containing some monsters of 35" to 40" plus fish. Mark couldn't get the huge ladies to feed but another nice one rang the bell weighing in at a respectable 29.6" and healthy enough to give him a Florida Slay Ride.

Weigh in was hosted by the fabulous Whiskey Joes Bar & Grill situated right on Tampa Bay with a view to make you want to go fishing. Whiskey Joes, located on Courtney Campbell Causeway in Tampa, is one of Florida's nicest eateries with fantastic food and service to go along with the view and the music. The weigh in began at 2 PM and the victory was up for grabs by several top anglers. Several entered bigger fish but no two combined could beat the ever smiling Mark Knowles.

The anticipation was thick enough to cut with a knife. Everyone could since that it was close. Everyone wanted to win. The Kayak Fishing ClassicS conducts 10 regular series tournaments where the anglers accumulate points per event. The points add up and then equate to Bonus Series Points that count only toward winning the Freedom Hawk Kayak which is the Grand Prize. The rest of the sponsor gear and cash prizes are unaffected by the bonus series points.

With the weigh in complete, the Awards Ceremony began with sponsor representative Pat Needham form Deep South Fishing Rods. Pat spoke to the anglers about his companies new rods for the Kayak Fishing ClassicS in 2011. You could feel the thickness of tension in the air as Capt. Pat Horrigan began announcing the winners starting with the fifth place winner and working upward.

When it came to announce the winner of the National Championship Classic, Mark Knowles almost fell out of his chair. Mark was awarded a boat load of kayak fishing gear and his cash prize presented by Yuenling Beer.
Next it came time to award the Freedom Hawk Kayak and Knowles was surprised again. The top runners in the series year had more points than Knowles but only turned in one fish or small fish for the two days of fishing. Marks' fish and bonus series points were enough to beat some stiff competition.

Mark was really happy to win the Freedom Hawk Kayak and is rigging it with a trolling motor so his father can now kayak fish with him. The $500.00 from Yuenling will go a long way for Christmas. And what of the fishing gear that Mark won from the Kayak Fishing ClassicS generous sponsors? Lets take a look.

Mark won a 14' Freedom Hawk Kayak, a TFO Fly Rod, Sunglasses form Ocean Waves,a Deep South Fishing Rods conventional rod, High Roller Custom Lures, a camouflage fishing shirt, pants, hat and bandanna from Aqua Design, RiverBum Saltwater Flies, a Jim Teeny Fly Line, an IceMule Cooler, a very cool kayak storage system by Talic, a slick PDF pack from PRECISIONPAK, a Guides Series Waterproof Box by Plano, Eye care form Linsey EyeCare, Chart Art by Steve Whitlock Game Fish Art, an interview with Slot Limit Radio, interviews with Kayak Angler Magazine and Kayak Fishing Magazine.

Sounds like a Dream Christmas for any kayak angler. The Kayak Fishing ClassicS has awarded over

$70,000.00 in sponsor gear and cash prizes in the 2010 Series Year making it the Richest Kayak Tournament in America. The new 2011 Series Year starts in January. See you there!

Come from behind Victory takes 2010 Series

2010-10-31T10:45:00.000-07:00

Chuck Statham Wins 2010 Series Year
Since joing the Kayak Fishing ClassicS at the midway point of the series, Chuck Statham let it be known that he intended to win the 2010 series year. He did it by winning or placing in every Classic that he fished in.
He started by chasing down every angler that was out in front of him in points, that is all but one. Derick Burgos was so far out in front it did not look possible to anyone to catch him this year. Burgos fished every tournament from the start back in January. That 9 months, 9 tournaments in a row, in all of the different condtions that put the test to the master angler.
As fate would have it, Burgos hit a slump as all great athletes seem to. Burgos wasn't hooking up and Statham was. That was the problem but not for Statham. He kept catching record fish in tournament after tournament and established a high mark that will be hard to follow.
Burgoes never gave up and managed to hold onto the lead going into the final event for the regular series year which was held on October 24th and hosted by the Riverhouse Reef & Grill in Palmetto, Florida. Burgos was unable to attend and that spelled trouble for the Series Leader.
The fishing was tough at the Southern Redfish Classic due to an established windy weather pattern for the tenth and final series tournament before the National Championship in November. Everyone had problems and that included Statham.
Chuck took advantage of a lull in the wind and went after the redfish with his TFO Fly Rod. He spotted a nice red and hooked him on a RiverBum Flies pattern. In the Series Year, a fly caught fish carries a 20 point bonus and that was enough to turn the tide in Statham's favor.
It was a great series and all of the anglers won some fantastic sponsor gear in the tournaments. Statham however, also won the Bragging Rights for a year and is now focusing on the National Championship on November 20th & 21st in Tampa.
Congratulations to Chuck Statham, the 2010 Series Year Champion!

Jim Teeny Casts his Line to ClassicS

2010-10-21T09:45:00.000-07:00

The Kayak Fishing ClassicS' are very pleased to welcome Jim Teeny Fly Lines as a sponsor. Jim Teeny Inc. makes some of the finest specialty fly lines in the world and is a great addition to our national tournament series. Teeny Fly Lines brings a powerful lineup of heighly developed, technical saltwater fly lines to match the needs of the ClassicS' fly fishing contestants.

Jim Teeny also brings a personal touch to the fly anglers with his casting expertise and advise. Jim has been fly fishing and making his specialty fly lines for decades now and will be sharing his wealth of knowledge with the anglers of the ClassicS. One of the most overwhelming aspects to new fly anglers is line selection and Jim Teeny has simplified this process greatly. Jim consults world class fly fishing guides from around the world and gathers their take on the characteristics of a great fly line under certain conditions. Jim then goes to work designing and developing new specialty fly lines to fit specific needs.

The anglers of the ClassicS are in for a very special treat with Jims involvement in the fly fishing division. Jim Teeny has fly fished all over the world and knows what it takes to make the perfect line for any situation and that's priceless for the anglers. To be able to talk to someone how has been a much admired industry leader, is fantastic enough. Jim Teeny Inc. is providing the series with his fly lines, as a sponsor and we cannot wait.

Jim Teeny has also been involved in the development of a Jim Teeny Fly Rod with the makers of Temple Fork Outfitters or simply TFO Fly Rods. TFO is also a sponsor to the Kayak Fishing ClassicS and we look forward to testing some of the Jim Teeny/TFO rods in the future.

We more than welome Jim Teeny to the Classics and anglers can see Jim's instructional video's on our website under his page. What a combination!

Temple Fork Outfitters joins ClassicS

2010-07-09T10:20:00.000-07:00

Temple Fork Outfitters joins ClassicS
By P. Ross, No Bananas staff journalist
Temple Fork Outfitters has become a sponsor of the Kayak Fishing ClassicS’ next event. The famous fly rod maker also known as TFO is now providing the ClassicS with their TFO Fly Rods and TFO/Gary Loomis Spinning Rods.
The Kayak Fishing ClassicS is very concerned about the regions snook population after the devastation of last winters’ extreme and extended cold spell which reportedly killed over 7% of the State of Florida’s snook population. Captain Pat Horrigan of the ClassicS had voiced such concerns nationally and was contacted by the Snook Foundation to see what they could jointly do together to help the snook populations. The Snook Foundation has developed a Snook Watch Program to assist in gathering snook data. The unique feature of the program is that the anglers are the individuals that gather the much needed data when they happen to catch a snook, prior to release. The information is shared with the FWC, FWRI and other like organizations involved in the support efforts of restoring the snook population. Snook are the bellwether of the estuaries and knowing how they are doing is critical.
As a result of this need, the Kayak Fishing ClassicS are instating the Snook Watch Program into all of the remaining events for the 2010 Series Year. Although snook are not targeted in any event, if an angler happens to catch one, they are requested to record the needed information onto the waterproof form that they are provided with prior to an event. The snook foundation feels that this approach to data collection is very easy on the fish and allows the anglers to become a partner in the effort to help.
“The Kayak Fishing ClassicS has many top name sponsors and all are in support of this combined effort between the Kayak Fishing ClassicS and the Snook Foundation. Temple Fork Outfitters is the latest to join in and the ClassicS thank them greatly as we do all of our very aware sponsors.”

ClassicS Teams with Steve Whitlock

2010-04-13T10:43:00.000-07:00

ClassicS Teams with Steve Whitlock
The Kayak Fishing ClassicS is very pleased to announce that they have teamed with world renowned wildlife artist, Steve Whitlock of Steve Whitlock Game Fish Art, Inc.
Steve Whitlock is now the Official Tournament Artist for the ClassicS and will be creating tournament specific artwork reflecting the game fish of each tournament and its location. The Kayak Fishing ClassicS is a traveling national tournament series with unique and beautiful locations chosen for each of the eleven events.
‘We are anxiously waiting to see what Steve will create for the ClassicS. His Chart Art paintings and Pencil Art are incredible and we are very thankful to have him as a sponsor.’ Captain Pat Horrigan has been working on bringing a marine artist to the ClassicS for over six months. “It was quite a process and very difficult to select one from so many great Florida artists. When I saw Steve Whitlock’s Game Fish Art, I new he was the one. His Game Fish Art, Chart Art, Pencil Art and Custom Commissions offered the complete representation in art of what we do. Steve is in very high demand and we are very pleased to have him with us.”
Steve Whitlock is a native Floridian and former fishing guide. He is wildlife artist, a marine illustrator and a graduate of the Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida. With his combined talent and experience, Steve brings a unique eye to his brush strokes and pencil drawings. Steve’s many years on the water is reflected in his work and he also welcomes custom commissions.
The winning contestants of the Kayak Fishing ClassicS tournaments will be awarded individual creations by Steve Whitlock, something that the followers of the ClassicS have long awaited. You can see some of Steve’s Chart Art and Pencil Drawings on the ClassicS website or visit Steve directly at SteveWhitlock.com

Albright Wins Big at TenAcious Trout Classic

2010-03-29T10:04:00.000-07:00

Albright Stands Out, Sweeps Both Divisions at ClassicS!
Tony Lai won both the Fly Fishing Division and the Light Tackle Division at the TenAcious Trout Classic using Albright Fishing Products Fly Rods & Albrights' Explorer Kayak Fishing Rod.
Derick Burgoes, the series leader placed second in the Fly Fishing Division using his Albright Fly Rod and 2nd in the Light Tackle Div. using his Explorer Kayak Fishing Rod.
Albright Fishing Products were clearly the big winners in previously providing fly rods and Explorer rods in past tournaments which Tony and Derick both placed in and won rods from Albright. 'The rods are flawless, powerful and light weight.' It's all about performance and Albright delivered just what the guys needed.
Albright, the winner of the 2010 Anglers Choice Award has been awarding their products to the winners for a few tournaments now and it is beginning to show up in the competition. When asked about Albright Rods, Capt. Pat Horrigan stated that he knew that they make great rods.
Capt. Pat conducted an indepth study comparison between several major rod manufactures before pursuing sponsorship from Albright. "Their rods came out on top for the kind of fishing we do." When asked about the price structure of the Albright Rods, Capt. Pat said "It makes no since to award the contestants products that they and their friends just can't justify the price on. It shouldn't take a paycheck to buy a good fly rod and with Albright you get great quality, fantastic performance and a price that is very reasonable."
With all the gear that is on the market today it is hard to stand out but that is exactly what Albright Fishing Products did at this Classic by sweeping two divisions. Nice job Albright and congratulations to the winners.

The TenAcious Trout Classic & Dinner

2010-03-12T10:49:00.000-08:00

The TenAcious Trout Classic & Dinner March 26 & 27
Hosted by the Famous Salt Rock Grill in Indian Shores, Florida
March 26 Captain's Meeting 7PM @ Salt Rock Grill
March 27 Fish Where You Like format
March 27 Weigh In at 4PM at Salt Rock Grill
Awards Ceremony & Dinner following Weigh In
Over $6,ooo.00 in Sponsor Prizes!
Sponsors include; Freedom Hawk Kayaks, Albright Fishing Products, Ocean Waves Sunglasses,
High Roller Custom Lures, Aqua Design, RiverBum Saltwater Flies, IceMule Kayak Coolers,
Linsey EyeCare, Kayak Kanopy, Kayak Fishing Magazine, Kayak Angler Magazine, Florida Fly Fishing Magazine, Windham Designs, Tropic Bay
For complete information visit http://www.KayakFishingClassicS.com
You must register/pay online to receive bonus tournament points and free dinner. Special dinner prices for contestant guests. Salt Rock Grill is an award winning wood fired grill. Yummm
If you don't kayak fish, maybe you should.

Whiskey Joe's Mammoth Slam Classic Winners

2010-02-24T09:44:00.000-08:00

Whiskey Joe's Mammoth Slam Classic was Great! The weather was great and the fishing was too... for some.

The trout/redfish slam hosted by Whiskey Joe's Bar & Grill was held February 19th & 20th with fishing on the 20th. The trout were all over the place in some area's and not to be found in others. Derick Burgos caught & released 27 trout while others got a tan. Redfish were found in large schools and were generally tight lipped.

The overall slam winner was Jason Stock with a total slam length of 49 1/2". Nice going Jason.

Derick Burgos placed Second with a total slam length of 38 1/8".

Tony Lai finished Third in slam.

Tony Lai placed First in Fly Fishing division with a 23 3/4" Trout. Nice job Tony and Welcome to the ClassicS.

Derick Burgos, Mr. Consistent, placed Second in Fly Fishing division with another fat trout, nice going Derick.

Jason Stock was awarded third place in Fly Fishing Fishing division.

Several fishermen saw plenty of huge redfish but just couldn't seal the deal. The winds were calm and the sun was out for most of the day. The Tampa Bay & Gulf water temps are still around 57 degrees.

The winners were greatly rewarded by the Kayak Fishing ClassicS generous sponsor.

A total of $3,600.00 in sponsor prizes were awarded at this event.

Albright Fishing Products lead the way by awarding 3- 4 pc. kayak fishing rods with hard cases for the Light Tackle division. Very cool rod in spin or conventional style.

Albright also awarded 3 very nice 2pc 8,9 wt saltwater flyrods, winner of the Classics

2010 Anglers Choice Award. You have to check them out.

Ocean Waves Sunglasses awarded 5 pairs of their very cool kayak fishing sunglasses. If you think you see fish now with your shades, put on a pair of Ocean Waves and see what you have been missing.

Fredom Hawk Kayaks awarded 1st place with a kayak push pole and well be awarding the

Freedom 12 kayak to the grand winner in the national championship.

Aqua Design awarded their Visually Quiet kayak fishing clothing. Cool Stuff and a must have.

High Roller Custom Wooden Lures made awards with their custom wooden lures and their

PT Spoons. Great lures with the very best in strike provoking action.

RiverBum Saltwater Flies were also very generous by awarding some very fine saltwater flies. Can't have too many flies and RiverBum flies are tuff and very well tied. Check them out, the prices will surprise you.

Linsey Eyecare, the official eye care sponsor to the ClassicS, will fit and adjust all prescription ocen waves sunglasses awarded. Linsy Eyecare is located at 8936 US Hwy. 19 in Port Richey, Fl.

Linsey Eyecare is family owned and uses state of the art equipment.

IceMule Coolers froze everyone out with their IceMule Cooler Bag. You have to check them out. There was quite a clamor about these cooler bags and you are going to want one or even two of these.

Kayak Kanopy awarded their kayak canopy top. This is another great idea and it will keep you cool in the sun and dry in the rain.

All of contestents and their families greatly enjoyed the fantastic food and service at our host sponsor Whiskey Joe's Bar & Grill and all plan to return and bring friends.

We wish to once again thank all of our generous sponsors, Whiskey Joe's Bar & Grill and all of our fishermen and fans. Thanks and see you next month.

Whiskey Joe's Mammoth Slam Classic

2010-01-26T07:54:00.000-08:00

Kayak Fishing ClassicS announces the Whiskey Joe's Mammoth Slam Classic.
Host sponsor is Whiskey Joe's Bar & Grill located on Courtney Campbell Cswy in Tampa.
Captain's Meeting is February 19 at 7 PM at Whiskey Joe's. Friends & family are invited.
Fish Anywhere February 20 Weigh - In at 4 PM at Whiskey Joe's.
Awards Ceremony following weigh-in. Friends & family invited.
Mammoth Slam Classic is fishing for Trout & Redfish and is a photo release tournament.
There are great prize awards from the ClassicS sponsors. Register on line to earn bonus tournament points. Register on line at http://www.KayakFishingClassicS.com
Registration is Now Open.

RESULTS Old Tampa Bay Monster Redfish Classic

2010-01-16T16:58:00.000-08:00

Man was it COLD ! !

The high for the day was only 35 degrees. It was raining ice just for a nice little touch. The film crew from Kayak Fishing Magazine had trouble with the camera's and their fingers. The tuff minded and the hardy fished on. The fishing was slow of course but all had fun trying to trick the monster redfish in the creeks.

Derick Burgos finished the day with a First Place Win.

James West placed Second and Justin West placed Third.

For their brave efforts in such nasty conditions which all wanted to fish, they were rewarded very nicely by the ClassicS generous sponsors. They each won;

1 Albright Fishing Products 2 piece fly rod and hard travel case.

1 Albright Fishing Products 4 piece pack rod and hard travel case.

1 Ocean Waves Sunglasses pair of Kayak Fishing ClassicS sunglasses.

1 Freedom Hawk Kayaks push pole.(1st place only).

A fine selection of High Roller Custom Wooden Lures.

A nice selection of High Roller PT Spoons.

1 Year On Line Subscription to Kayak Angler Magazine

Tournament Film Exposure on Kayak Fishing Magazine

1 Aqua Design Voyager Visually Quiet stealthy kayak fishing apparel-Boonie Hat, Cap or Bandanna.

1 Linsey Eyecar Microfiber Lens Care Kit.

Tropic Bay Gear.

Tropic Bay sunglass keeper.

1 Moon Clock

1 Fly Casting Course from Tropic Bay, IGFA Certified

You might say that they went home with a trunk full of great stuff. See you at the next tournament February 19th & 20th @ Whiskey Joe's Bar & Grill on Courtney Campbell Cswy.

Old Tampa Bay Monster Redfish Classic

2010-01-01T09:44:00.000-08:00

The Old Tampa Bay Redfish ClassicS by Tropic Bay Kayak Fishing ClassicS is in just a few days.

The dates for the light tackle & fly fish tournament are January 8th & 9th, 2010.

Jack Willies Tiki Bar & Grill is the Host Sponsor in Oldsmar, Florida. Register now online at

http://www.kayakfishingclassics.com/ You will also gain valuable tournament points by registering/paying online. Check out the ClassicS website now for all the information.

Kayak Fishing ClassicS Welcomes You

2009-11-28T13:18:00.000-08:00

The Kayak Fishing ClassicS welcomes you to our blog and invites your participation. If you enjoy the sport of kayak fishing, fly fishing or light tackle fishing in saltwater you now have a voice to the industry leaders in the sport. Kayak fishing is a very stealthy way to fish the flats and backcountry bayous. Add a fly rod to that mix and you are all but invisible. Albright Fishing Products helps with that. Albright, makers of world class fly rods and light tackle conventional rods, would like to know your thoughts on the sport. Albright is a major sponsor to the ClassicS and awards their fly rods and conventional light tackle rods to our tournament winners. High Roller, makers of the Highest Quality Custom Wooden Lures on the water helps our contestants with the catching part. Their lures are incredible and they are also awarded to our winners. How well do you see the fish when seated in your yak on a sunny day? How about an overcast day? Ocean Waves Sunglasses lenses are constructed from thirty (30) light filtering layers and if you put on a pair of these you will see fish like you never have seen before. The top 3 finishers in each tournaments get a pair of these prized possessions. Catch up on the fast changing technologies of our sport by reading the Kayak Angler Magazine in print or on line at KayakAnglerMag.com When you fish a ClassicS tournament you will receive a one year free on line subscription that you will find very helpful and informative. Do you fish a sit on or a sit in Kayak? Have you ever fished a wooden yak? There are big differences between a plastic, fiberglass and a wooden kayak. Custom Wooden Kayaks by Jesse is another sponsor that we are proud to have on board. Jesse custom fits and designs your wooden kayak around you and your needs at a price that will surprise you. Visit KayakFishingClassicS.com for more info on Custom Wooden Kayaks by Jesse. Do you ever wish you know other good places to launch your kayak? Kayak Fishing Magazine is developing a great launch locator for the ClassicS website and it will be up soon. Kayak Fishing Magazine is a strong supporter of the Kayak Fishing ClassicS and a great sponsor. They have a Kayak Launch Locator on their website; KayakFishingMagazine.net
KFM is full of information that we all need. Their on line publication is FREE and I know you will also enjoy it. We hope to see you in one or all of our tournaments. They are very competitive, fun fill, family events. Please join in on our conversations and remember to FishGreen