The Villages Freshwater Fishing Club
Fishing around The Villages, Florida
Now in it’s fifth year, the 2022 “Pro Challenge” took place on Friday November 18th. Professional angler Scott Byrd’s team took top honors with a seven fish catch that tipped the scales at 9lbs. 1oz.
Again this year we were very fortunate to have professional photographer Ron Pearce document this fun filled event. For the full story and Ron’s outstanding photography simply click on this link. https://www.smugmug.com/gallery/n-4FwMJg/
Anyone that follows this blog knows that FFC members Wayne Barksdale and Trevor Bailey spend hours fishing together and more often than not there’s a story to be told at the end of every trip. I received this report from Wayne on October 18th and is best told in Wayne’s own words.
“This morning Trevor and I went to Lake Panasoffkee. When I started my boat motor the warning horn went off. Then we noticed gasoline all around the boat in the water. My fuel pump broke. We loaded up the boat and heading home I called a friend who worked on outboard motors and told me to bring it to him. He lives near lake Griffin. I left the boat with him. Trevor left and went home About 1pm my buddy called and said my boat was ready. I picked up my boat at 2pm and decided to fish Lake Griffin for a couple of hours because of the cold front moving in tonight. In about 30minutes into fishing I had 3 bass. The 3rd bass was a 9lb 8oz trophy.
I was throwing my ultra vibe speed worm..junebug red..one eighth once weigh..free line. l had pulled my worm over some pads in 4 feet of water, let the bait fall off the last pad. I never felt anything but my line was moving out and when I set the hook there was no question about what was on the end of the line. It took a while but I finally got it to boat. I got a nice picture and the bass was back in the water in good shape” A later message from Wayne stated that his catch was “Trophy Catch” approved. WTG Wayne. Another F.O.T.M. pin for your collection.
Two additional October reports worth noting came from Bob Knorr with a 5.69 lb. Lake Kissimmee catch
and Rich Haessly with a 5lb. 4oz. Villages pond catch.
Thanks to all that reported and sent pics. Keep them coming.
NOTE: To stay on top of what others are doing just click on the tab marked “Fishing Forums” at the top of this page and sign up. There is page for reporting your catch, general topics, and kayak fishing.
Rob Husson
The Villages Freshwater Fishing Club 