Bay Area Bassmasters is “the world’s largest B.A.S.S. Nation ‘buddy’ team tournament trail.” Based out of Tampa, FL this “bass fishing club is designed to provide a little something for anglers of all ages, with or without experience,” and holds events on bodies of water across the state. Over the weekend, the club held their fourth event of the season at Lake Istokpoga, where 40 teams launched from Istokpoga Park.
Perry Cincotta hoists his 9.32-pound lunker
Jeff Baker and Darren Betts topped the field on what would prove to be a summer-like day in relation to the weather. The Baker’s weighed a 5 bass limit totaling 22.32 pounds for the victory, and anchored that bag with a 7.18-pound kicker. Brian Renshaw and Bobby Squires finished in second place, weighing 5 bass totaling 21.15 pounds. Renshaw and Squires anchored their bag with a 7.95-pound kicker. Chuck Pons and Mark Reese anchored their 19.04-pound, third place bag with a 7.47-pounder. Jeff Crandon and Dan Richardson finished in fourth place as they weighed a 16.82-pound total. An 8.04-pound lunker, caught by Richardson, helped to anchor that bag. Lewis Roberson and Calvin Boyette secured the final spot in the Top 5 as they weighed a 15.22-pound bag.
John and Perry Cincotta only caught two keeper fish during the tournament, but one was awarded the Big Bass prize. Perry Cincotta’s 9.32-pound lunker also took over the lead for Lunker of the Year amongst club members.
The Bay Area Bassmasters are scheduled to compete on the Kissimmee Chain on May 9th, launching from Camp Mack.
