Big Payday on Sam Rayburn

by Tom Behrens, Freelance Writer & Photographer

Tom Behrens has over 50 years experience in fishing and hunting across the United States. Much of this time was spent in Oklahoma and Texas where he became very familiar with the outdoor opportunities in these states. You may contact him by email at: tomdoglover29@aol.com

The 35th Annual Big Bass Splash paid out around $1.2 million to anglers. Michael Fesco's 10.04 pound bass barely edged out Tom Penny's 10.02 to take home a prize package that included a new boat, truck, RV, and $40,000 cash. The overall value was a little over $300,000.

Opening day the field weighed in 329 bass, 295 bass on Saturday and 317
bass on Sunday.There was only 30 pounds difference in the total weights
over the three day period.

The Top Five:

1. Michael Fesco, Sour Lake, Texas - 10.04
2. Jim Penny, Waverly, Alabama, - 10.02
3. Cody Williams, Conroe, Texas - 9.53
4. James Hammond, Rockwall, Texas - 9.53
5. Tommy Bowen, Marshall, Texas - 9.16