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SIMON HERR'S DOMINATING PERFORMANCESimon 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 TIMBERRather 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 ADVANTAGEWhile 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 SECRETSSimon 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 CHAMPIONSHIPWith 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 FISHINGSimon 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 FISHINGThe 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 APPRECIATIONSimon 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

Hayden Lee Wins Hayden Lee wins his first professional tournamentBreaking down the BAM Don Pedro Pro-AmHow Hayden’s pattern changed over three daysUsing Garmin LiveScope in 35–50 feetWhy 70–80-yard casts can matterUnderstanding pressured bass behaviorThe critical 10 a.m.–3 p.m. bite windowWhy approximately 1 p.m. became a key periodFollowing threadfin shad instead of traditional structureUsing weather, temperature and moon-phase recordsTreating your home lake like unfamiliar waterPreparing for the BAM Super 60 at Don PedroThe impact of tournament fishing pressurePreparing for the November BAM ClassicGrowing tournament bass fishing in the WestCreating opportunities for young anglers through scholastic fishingHayden’s family, career and tournament goalsGuest: 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

• 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 MANTEROLATy 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 BAMFor 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

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

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

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

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.comMagazine: 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

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

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

• BAM Scholastic Champion Colton Newman discusses his tournament-winning performance • Lessons learned from competing at a high level • Day 2 Pro Leader Aaron Ecthernkamp breaks down his winning pattern • Key baits, locations and adjustments on Potholes Reservoir • Aaron’s strategy heading into Championship Sunday • Wyatt Koleff discusses his strong co-angler performance • Challenges and opportunities fishing with different pros • Championship Sunday predictions • Tournament conditions and fish behavior update • Inside look at the BAM Potholes Pro-Am leaderboard battle 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

• Day 1 recap from Potholes Reservoir • Chris Parks discusses his Day 1 pattern and key areas • Adrian Ghione explains how he built his co-angler leading bag • Colton Newman breaks down his successful scholastic strategy • Productive baits and presentations from Day 1 • Fishing shallow versus deep at Potholes • Adjusting to changing conditions • Managing pressure on community areas • Day 2 cut day predictions • What it will take to reach Championship Sunday • Anglers to watch moving up the leaderboard • Mercury  Marine/ Vexus Boats Pro-Am update   Topics Covered Potholes Reservoir bass fishing, chatterbait fishing, frog fishing, offshore bass fishing, grass fishing, co-angler strategy, scholastic bass fishing, tournament bass fishing, cut day strategy, largemouth bass, BAM Trail, bass fishing tournament coverage, Pacific Northwest bass fishing, Mercury Marine, Vexus Boats, Bass Boat Technologies, Tackle Warehouse. 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

The panel covers everything from chatterbait and frog fishing around grass to targeting bass near beaver dams and using Google Earth to locate hidden fish-holding areas before arriving at the lake. They also share valuable advice for co-anglers, including simple but effective Senko presentations that could make the difference between cashing a check and going home empty-handed. One thing is certain at Potholes: bass can be caught deep or shallow, and anglers will have multiple ways to compete for the win. If you’re fishing the event or simply love bass fishing strategy, this episode is packed with insights that can help you understand one of the West’s most versatile fisheries. Guests: • Travis Archer • Bradley Tiller • Curtis Reno In This Episode: • Current conditions at Potholes Reservoir • Why Potholes is one of the West’s most versatile bass fisheries • Chatterbait strategies around grass and emerging vegetation • Frog fishing opportunities for big bites • Fishing around beaver dams and overlooked cover • Using Google Earth to locate productive water before practice • Finding hidden pockets, channels, and key structure • Deep versus shallow bass patterns • Co-angler strategies and why a Senko can be a game changer • Tournament-winning opportunities across multiple techniques • What anglers need to do to compete for a Mercury-powered Vexus 1880 Tournament Information: BAM Trail Mercury / Vexus Boats Pro-Am Potholes Reservoir – Mardon Resort June 19-21, 2026 Follow Along: • Daily livestream coverage • Live weigh-ins from Mardon Resort • Tournament updates at BAMTrail.com • Results, stories, and coverage from Bass Angler Magazine Presented By: Mercury Marine, Vexus Boats, Tackle Warehouse, Bass Angler Magazine, BAM Trail About BAM Podcasts Bass Angler Magazine's is a bi-monthly podcast series its available free on Simple Cast, iTunes, Spotify, Google Play and Amazon. Stay tuned as we discuss the latest in bass fishing, lure trends, ways to catch fish, tournament wins and things of interest to bass anglers. BASS ANGLER MAGAZINE (BAM), a veteran owned quarterly print and digital magazine, designed, and printed in the U.S.A. Covering largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass, Bass Angler was created specifically to help you become a better, more informed bass fisherman. As the industry’s most informative bass fishing magazine, we provide you in-depth exclusive new features with the world’s top anglers. Subscribe to Bass Angler Magazine print and or digital here

In this episode of the BAM Podcast: • Darryl Burkhardt discusses winning the 2026 BAM Northwest Pro-Am on Moses Lake. • How a conservative practice approach helped him locate fish without burning productive areas. • Fishing frogs in stained water and targeting fry balls under docks. • Why a white and chartreuse laminate Cinco became a key bait during the event. • Adjusting to changing weather and wind conditions throughout the tournament. • The effects of a major windstorm that struck Moses Lake before competition began. • Darryl’s Day One 21-pound limit and the adjustments that led to victory. • Discussion about tournament suspense and BAM weigh-in presentation strategies. • Why Senko-style baits continue to dominate in many Northwest fisheries. • Challenges facing bass tournament participation in the Pacific Northwest. • Discussion on entry fees, angler recruitment, and growing future events. • Looking ahead to the Potholes Pro-Am and the BAM Super 60 at Brownlee Reservoir. • Darryl’s appreciation for his sponsors including Skeeter Boats, Yamaha Outboards, and Nixon’s Marine. Listen now and learn how the 2026 Moses Lake champion put together a winning pattern against one of the strongest fields in Northwest bass fishing. #BAMPodcast #BAMTrail #BassFishing #MosesLake #DarrylBurkhardt #NorthwestBassFishing #TournamentFishing #BassTournament #BassAnglerMagazine #BassFishingPodcast #VexusBoats #MercuryMarine #SkeeterBoats #YamahaOutboards #BigEdEverhart #WesternBassFishing #BassFishingLife #FishingPodcast #BassAngler #BassFishingNation 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

Darrel Ocamica joins Michael Bray on the BAM Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about tournament bass fishing, the Bassmaster Elite experience, and what it takes to build a long-term career in the sport. Darrel Ocamica’s Bassmaster Elite experience Lessons learned competing at the highest level Fishing ethics and the unwritten rules of tournament angling How anglers should handle pressure, space, and respect on the water Western anglers and the changing tournament landscape Forward-facing sonar and its impact on traditional techniques Are we losing anglers who fish other styles? Darrel’s thoughts on future tournament formats and events Knot types and when to use them Hook styles and matching hooks to techniques Carolina rig setup and strategy Building a structured plan for your fishing career Advice for anglers trying to grow, compete, and improve professionally #tacklewarehouse #fordfairfield #mercurymarine #bobsmachine 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

The Bam Trail, which culminates in the Pacific Northwest at the conclusion of this month, presents an opportunity for an interview with Aaron Echternkamp, a highly seasoned angler residing in the region. In this interview, Aaron Echternkamp will provide insights into the lakes and rivers we will be fishing on during our northern excursion. He will share information on the types of baits, specific areas, and the weights he believes are essential for success in these events.  In this episode, Big Ed and Aaron discuss: Aaron’s background as a professional bass angler, tournament champion, and licensed guide His experience fishing the MLF circuit Aaron joining the BAM Super 60 field The upcoming BAM Trail Pacific Northwest swing How Moses Lake is fishing right now Spawn timing and why another wave of spawners may still be coming Fishing docks, tules, shallow cover, flipping areas, and finesse patterns Why Moses Lake allows anglers to fish their strengths Potholes Reservoir and its tournament potential The upcoming BAM Super 60 at Brownlee Northwest bass fishing conditions and expectations #blackbeardiner  #storquest  #fordfairfield  #vexusboats  #mercurymarine  #bassboattechnologies  #bamtrail  #chickenranchcasinoresort    #bassanglermazine #boardmanchamber #boardmanparksandrec #tacklewarehouse #okumafishingusa   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