Fish with "DIRT"

2011 review

2012-01-11T15:57:00.003-05:00

2011 was another great year for "Team Dirt". While Lee and I finished in the money a little more often last year, I enjoyed his company as well as many others more than anything while fishing. Hunting season was average, but I did get out more this year. Some highlights at the end of 2011 are below. Looking forward to tight lines & brown down in 2012. Good huntin and fishin to ya.

VAO Forum Supporters TX

2011-09-26T07:10:00.002-04:00

Fished the VAO Forum Supporters Tournament this past Saturday and my partner (Jim Sutton) and I came in second in both the 1st and 2nd rounds. My son, Lee fished solo in the 1st round and won that with 11+ lbs and a 4.75 lbs beauty (big fish for the day). Lake Anna is fishing very tough right now. It was not about the fishing that day necessarily, but the friendship and commrodery that went with it.

Labor Day Froggin

2011-09-06T10:34:00.002-04:00

Lee and I went out yesterday on the Potomac and caught all but two fish on popping and buzz frogs. They are really munching right now....so get out if you can.

Hunting season nears

2011-07-25T06:10:00.001-04:00

Recently............

2011-06-18T06:58:00.002-04:00

Lee and I have not been fishing to many tournaments this year. The one's we have fished on the river have been good to us. A first place, a second and a third......all in the money. Great fishing on the Potomac right now if you can get out.....GO!

Brother and nephew on the Bay

2011-05-15T16:25:00.002-04:00

While I had to work on May 2nd, my brother Tom and his son, Matt went out on the Chesapeake Bay and caught these nice rockfish.

Bass over 5 lbs. in recent years

2011-01-06T06:42:00.003-05:00

Here are some bass caught in 2010 that weighed over 5 lbs. Caught by either Lee or myself. ENJOY.

New Years Eve 2010

2011-01-01T05:46:00.004-05:00

Lee and I took the last day of 2010 and decided to catch a few at Lake Anna. Had 2 over 3 lbs and 2 over 4 lbs with one dink. Not a bad way to end the year. Happy New Year to Everyone and have a great time in 2011.

Lake Anna Cup 2010

2010-11-16T10:08:00.004-05:00

Lee and I fished the Lake Anna Cup with 70 other teams this past Sunday. We got off to a very late start due to fog and headed to the "spot". Earlier in the week, we had prefished and were on some very solid fish uplake. Well, in typical Lake Anna fashion, those fish either had vacated the premises or just were'nt hungry. We only had two fish for 5.91 lbs. of which Lee's 5.21 lber (above), took up most of the weight. Finished way down the list. 14+ lbs. took the $2K first place by Darrin Bache and his partner. Well....maybe next year.

Lee at Lake Anna 11-6-10

2010-11-07T05:37:00.002-05:00

Well....young grasshopper (Lee) had an excellent day yesterday at Lake Anna. He caught all of the fish while I just netted and had fun watching him. These were 5.1 lbs. and 6.0 lbs and he had a total weight of over 17 lbs with a five fish limit. We were pre-fishing for the upcoming Lake Anna Cup that is next weekend. Hope these guys are still aorund then.

Hunting

2010-11-04T07:08:00.006-04:00

It wasn't too long ago that I would have shot this 8 pointer and called him a trophy. I am sure he is trophy in someone's eyes and will probably wind up in the back of someone's pickup this season. Either way....I let him walk. BUT.....before I did make that decision ...an experiment.
I saw this deer around 4PM yesterday, put the binoculars on him and decided not to shoot him. He was out about 200 yards. He jumped the fence that borders our hunting property and headed away........sooooooo....I think. Maybe I will rattle and see what happens.
He paralleled the fence and jumped back onto our side and came right towards me.......here is the first video of him at 60 yards.

OK...so he wanders down the trail you see to the right and starts to go out of site. Sooooooo.....I rattle again. This time, he comes back again to see what the racket is all about and comes within 25 yards. After this next video, I tried once more to rattle and see what he would do, but he was too wise to my game by then.

Dropshotting LKA with BigC & Tightline

2010-11-03T06:35:00.002-04:00

A few months ago the local bass fishing community here in NO VA was overcome by a terrible boating accident on the Potomac River which put a fellow fisherman (Lenny Baird)out of work for quite a while. Luckily, he is doing a lot better and back to work and fishing. To try to offset some of his lost income, VAO members had auctions for various things. I offered a 1/2 day dropshot trip on Lake Anna which Doug and Marla Rosier won.

Well, yesterday....it all came together and I took them out to learn a little more about this boring and sometimes frustrating technique. It is evident that IT DOES WORK, as can be seen by mine and Lee's third place finish in the most recent tournament at Lake Anna.

A frosty, cold morning greeted us at Sturgeon Creek Marina and I went through the basics of the rod, reel, line, hook, weight and bait setup.

Once we got started, it wasn't too long before we had a fish or two in the boat. We fished docks, rocks, dropoffs, points, brushpiles, etc. so they could get the full experience on how to fish each.

We had a fun day and lunch to go with it. Caught about a dozen or so fish up to two pounds. Not a bad day on Anna for learning a new technique with good friends.

VAO Winter Series 10-31-10

2010-11-03T06:26:00.000-04:00

Lee and I had no real game plan going into this TX other than to fish our strength's and our normal fall spots on Anna. Neither one of those really held up, as we had to revert back to finesse tactics to get bit. We started in SC and had our 5 fish limit (albeit a small limit), by 8:30AM. All on docks and all on dropshot. Headed up the Anna side and fished spots that had been good to us in previous years all the way to Waddy's. Lost one a tube and one on a jig. Saw a lot boats running with no one staying in one place for very long. With no more fish to show for up there we headed back to where we started in SC. Culled once and in the last 20 minutes made a decision to hit one other dock in SC and go for broke. Lee nailed a 3.42 lb. skinny fish with 10 minutes left, that helped us into 3rd place. Congrats to Wayne / Jeff on the win and John / Ed for second. Looking forward to the coming events.

LAKE ANNA CUP

2010-10-17T05:47:00.000-04:00

Center
Lake Anna Cup
September 21, 2010
Greetings from Lake Anna,
On behalf of High Point Marina, Country Chevrolet, Dominion Resources, Green Top Sporting Goods, Anna’s
Marine Center, the Lake Anna Business Partnership, Gander Mountain, Woods & Waters Magazine, Habervision
and Lake Anna Outfitters, I’d like to extend an official invitation to participate in the 2010 Lake Anna Cup to be held
Sunday, November 14 out of Anna Point Marina.
You are receiving this invitation because you were part of an elite group of anglers this season that either finished
in the top tier of a qualifying team circuit (Fisher’s Of Men, Championship Teams, LAPR Bass, Angler’s Choice,
Castaway, Eagles Landing, Sturgeon Creek’s Tuesday Night Tournaments and High Point’s Friday Night Tournaments)
or have been extended an at-large invitation. Anyone who thinks they have the stuff to “Claim The Cup”
have been included.
This event is by invitation only. The payout is a guaranteed $2,000 to the top finishing team, plus $500 worth
of merchandise. The winning team will also claim the title of the best on Lake Anna for 2010 and is awarded the
honor of putting their names on the actual Lake Anna Cup trophy. Each year we will add another name and the
tradition will grow. A participation fee of $60/$70 per team goes toward the cookout (each team member gets a
meal ticket), Lake Anna Cup t-shirts, door prizes and administrative fees. Last year we also paid three additional
places due to a high level of participation.
There will also be four, free annual ramp passes awarded at the Lake Anna Cup. Sturgeon Creek Marina will offer
an annual ramp pass for the largest bass weighed by 9:30 am. HIgh Point Marina will do the same at 11:30 am. .
Please reveiw the enclosed/attached Tournament Entry Form and send your payment ASAP to ensure your starting
position. You CAN register the day of the event (we’ll be there at 5:45 am) with a $5 late fee. Dave Fauntleroy
will once again be our Tournament Director and the rules are the same as his LAPR Bass Series’. Five fish over 12”
will be weighed per team. To review complete rules, go to www.laprbass.com. Tournament hours will be from safe
light (hopefully @6:30-6:45am) to eight hours
later.
To see a recap and results of last year’s event, go to www.woodsandwatersmagazine.com and click on Lake Anna
Cup 2009 Results. I certainly hope you will mark November 14 on your calendar and we see at the lake.
Best Personal Regards,
C.C. McCotter
Editor-In-Chief
Woods & Waters Magazine
“Come Claim The Cup!”
‘07 Lake Anna Cup
Claimed By Perrin
And Moates
Marine
POP’S
757.566.8939
“Come Claim The Cup!”
540.347.9000
Country
540.895.5900
Magazine
LKA®
Lake Anna, VA
804.550.2188
Lake Anna
Business Partnership
Lake Anna, VA. - Tournament bass fishing is a popular pastime for many
of the region’s anglers. In this competitive format, each angler or team of
two anglers tries to catch the heaviest limit of fish to claim a prize -
usually cash money generated by entry fees. At a set end time, the
weights are tallied on a highly accurate scale back at a weigh-in station,
the winner declared, money awarded and the contestants go home. This
is a standard tournament.
On Sunday, November 11, the first annual Lake Anna Cup was held at
Anna Point Marina using a different format that proved to be an instant
classic.
Several weeks prior to the event over 100 invitations were mailed and
emailed to the top 20 teams in the region’s most popular tournament
circuits - Championship Teams, Fishers Of Men, the Lake Anna Pro
Series Bass Tournaments, the High Point Marina Friday Night Tournaments
and the Sturgeon Creek Marina Tuesday Night Tournaments.
There were also over 20 at large invitations extended to other notable
fishing teams, guides and sponsors. It was an earned honor to be
invited. And, unlike standard formatted tournaments, the only expense
necessary to compete was a $40 participation fee
For the $40, each team received two Lake Anna Cup t-shirts, a meal
ticket for the post-tourney BBQ and various other sponsors‚ products.
By participating, each team had a chance to “Claim The Cup”, an
actual cup trophy that will carry the name (s) of the winners each year.
The cup stays at Anna Point Marina, but the actual event will rotate
through the lake’s marinas. Each year, another team’s names will be
added to the Cup.
Another unique part of this event is that the participants were not
fishing for their own money. In fact, they were fishing for $2,000 cash and
$500 merchandise from five sponsors that wanted to be part of the Lake
Anna Cup. Pop’s Marine in Toano was the official boat dealer. Anna Point
Marina was the headquarters. Country Chevrolet in Warrenton was the
official truck dealer. The Lake Anna Business Partnership was the fourth
sponsor/supporter. Green Top Sporting Goods in Ashland was the official
tackle supplier. Each sponsor put up $500. Green Top provided $500 in
fishing gear and clothing.
Fifty-four teams were at Anna Point Marina before dawn to launch and
register. After a 1-hour fog delay, bass boats of all brands roared off to
the far corners of Lake Anna to try to claim the cup. Roughly eight later, at the 4 pm weigh-in, Tournament Director Dave Fauntleroy
welcomed the teams to the scales and got to work.
From the looks of the bags of fish brought to Fauntleroy, the perfect 50-
degree, sunny and calm day on Lake Anna had provided some fine
catches for the contenders.
Third place went to Gene Hord and Mac McManus with five fish
weighing 15.31 pounds. Second place went to the father and son team
of Scott and Brian Conners with a solid limit at 17.68 pounds.
In the end there was drama and surprise. First place winners Dean
Perrin and Mitch Moates had come out of semi-retirement from
tournament fishing and brought a five fish sack of bass weighing 18.14
pounds to the scales that surged them into first and drew the admiring
applause of all on hand.
When the scales closed and the results tallied, Perrin and Moates had
claimed the Lake Anna Cup for 2007, the prize

Hunting Buggie

2010-10-01T06:53:00.002-04:00

OK Folks. It almost bow hunting season and this will start a mix of both fishing and hunting related stuff. I have been in search of a used UTV or golf cart for hunting purposes for a while and found one finally. I am fixing it up the way I need it for hunting and getting those big boys out of the woods. Here are a few pictures.

Fellow fisherman needs help

2010-09-16T14:07:00.002-04:00

Last weekend during the BWS tournament on the Potomac River, friend and fellow angler, Lenny Baird was in a pretty bad boating accident. He was not severely injured, but pretty banged up. He will be out of work however, for 6-8 weeks and could use some extra cash to get he and his family through. We at Va-outdoors.com are auctioning off quite a few hunting & fishing trips, outdoor related items, lures,tackle, etc.to help Lenny out. Please go to www.va-outdoors.com to bid on some really cool things, so Lenny can get back to work and fishing with us. Thanks.

Battle of the Border

2010-09-06T06:15:00.002-04:00

Lee and I (Team Dirt), fished the Battle of the Border on the Potomac River on Saturday. This tournament pitted the VA boys against the MD boys. VA came out on top with a total of 265 lbs. over MD's 142 lbs. All had a great time A total of $1300 was donated to the VA side's State Park (Leesylvania).
[IMG]http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs630.snc4/59019_1624520412428_1219037998[/IMG]

[IMG]http://profile.ak.fbcdn.net/hprofile-ak-snc4/hs173.ash2/41675_100000710700812_6220_[/IMG]

VAO Forum Supporters Tx

2010-08-15T07:19:00.002-04:00

Lee and I fished the VAO Forum Supporters Tournament yesterday and came in 2nd with 13.07 lbs. Lee had a real nice fish at 5.26 lbs. For more info go to http://va-outdoors.com/

"Team Dirt"

2010-08-08T07:21:00.001-04:00

Exciting Events in September

2010-08-06T06:07:00.002-04:00

There are two very exciting events to be held in our Virginia waters this September. The first one on September 4th, pits the Virginia bass fishing teams against the Maryland bass fishing teams for the Potomac River Title.

Potomac River Battle of the border Invitational
Sept 4, 2010 @ Leesylvania State Park

• Va Team Captain-Tank Mosley-540.429.0278
• MD team captain-Jason berry-240.682.4480
• Team tournament format
• 5 fish limit-12 inch Length Limit
• Launch is @ First light
• $100 entry/$25 of entry donated to winning side’s state Park/$10 Big fish automatic
• 1st place/2nd place big fish
• Spot paid for every 5 boats
• State Park Winning side is determined by average combined bag weight.
• All boats expected to have all safety items and working live wells
• Cash only
• 100% percent payout less tourney fees and trophy costs
• Can also contact Kris Johnson 804.761.3131 or email-vahotchile@hotmail.com

The second one is an event I have fished ever since it began several years ago. The Wounded Warriors Tournament at Lake Anna on September 25th is an outstaanding way to show your support of our troops.

2010 Fall Bass Classic for the Wounded Warriors
Time: September 25, 2010 from 5am to 4pm
Location: Anna Point Marina Lake Anna, Virgina
City/Town: Mineral
Website or Map: http://ww.annapoint.com
Phone: 775-313-3640
Event Type: wounded, heroes
Organized By: Ken Kirk

Lee's First Snakehead

2010-07-25T16:38:00.002-04:00

Lee and I fished the VAO "Dog Days Duel" on the Potomac River yesterday and he caught his first snakehead. This one is not very big (3.18 lbs), but big enough to win the snakehead sidepot.

St. Judes Tx on the Potomac River

2010-07-10T06:10:00.000-04:00

Region 9 and Russ Shetley held their St. Judes Tx yesterday out of LSP and had the biggest turnout they have ever had with 51 boats. What a worthy cause. The representative from St. Jude's stated that 1.2 million dollars is spent daily, to keep up with everything that they do to help the kids and families. Hats off to them. Russ handed them a check for $5100 from this TX alone. Proud to be associated with such a great group of guys that contribute to these events.
Now, for the fishing. Lee and I went back down to Arkindale where we had been on a group of fish last week and the fish were there, but all were
14"-15" fish....no big uns. Fished there until about 10AM, then ran to Chickamuxen and caught the same size. Went back to Arkindale for the incoming tide and same ol, same ol. We caught over 20 fish with 85% of them on the frog. Weighed in 9.79 lbs.
VAO had quite a showing with over 5 teams. Wayne, G, Squire, Mike, Tank, JJ,Jr., Cash, Bfelts, myself and Lee. If I forgot some one, sorry bout that. Congrats to Tank and his partner for a fifth place finish with 14+ lbs. and Squire / Mike for a third place with 16+ lbs. Way to represent guys. First place had over 20 lbs.
BTW....did I say it was HOT yesterday.

Potomac River 7-3-10

2010-07-04T16:27:00.002-04:00

Went out on the river with my son, Lee, yesterday and "had a pretty good day". He caught this 5 lb. 13 oz. LM while fishing a frog in the grass.

Wounded Warriors Tournament TV

2010-05-26T04:57:00.000-04:00

For those that missed it.
http://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local-beat/Wounded_Warriors__Gone_Fishin__Washington_DC.html

VAO Tournament on the Potomac

2010-05-24T16:32:00.003-04:00

Lee and I fished the Virginia Outdoors Weekend Series on Sunday and came in fifth place with 12.43 lbs. First day out this year that there wasn't much wind. We hit a lot of our main river spots and just could not get a big fish bite going. Caught about 18-20 fish and culled twice. Lee did miss the big fish for the day with a 4.50lbs. fatty, only to be beatin out by one of our members by .03 lbs. Oh well. A nice day to be out with my son and fellow VAO members.

More Wounded Warriors...........

2010-05-18T17:07:00.001-04:00

OPERATION 100,000 PATRIOTS

Get is up and running with the Second Annual Spring Bass Challenge

Saturday, May 15, 2010 of Armed Forces day was a great day to celebrate the sacrifices of our men and women in uniform. 52 servicemen and women arrived at Leeslyvainia State Park, VA and were paired with professional and local bass angler along with a sponsor for great day on the Potomac. This time there was a twist. They were not looking for that 5 fish limit they were hunting that one big Potomac river Bass. The big fish format allowed them to concentrate on different areas that are known to hold the bigger fish that the Potomac is known for. It also helped keep the mortality rate of the catches for the day to 0. That means that all fish were released and survived to be caught another day. My hats off to the boaters for their fish management.

“The day started early for all but it was worth it. Just to see our Nations Heroes with big smiles on their faces makes this event a blessing.” Angie Kirk said. This year the team of Angie Kirk and Brian Green, A local Tournament Angler and One Stop Boat Shop Pro Staffer, contacted all of the boaters as Marsha Stumpo of Angler Development headed up the administration staff of the PVA- Outdoor Recreation Heritage Fund worked with all of the others to make this event a pleasure for the Heroes.

Ken Kirk, a Local Fishing Guide, Started these events over two years ago with a U.S. Army Chaplin from Ft. Meade. Since then they have gotten bigger and better every time. “We had our Heroes come from all over the place this year.” Kirk, Said. “It was hard just keeping up with the different commands that wanted to be a part of this.” There were Heroes from Ft. Meade. Walter Reed Army Med Center, Portsmouth Naval Station, Ft. Eustis, VA., Ft Belvior, VA , Quantico Marine Corps Base and Ft Bragg, NC.

According to the boaters, most of the Heroes caught fish but all of them have a great time. It is great to see a community come together to support our troops.

As the boats returned after the day on the river smiles lit up the faces of the heroes as they weighed in their fish. Coming in 3rd place was the team of Randy Quesenberry with his Hero Army Spc. John Marlett. Their biggest fish weighed in at 4 lbs. 5 oz. Second place fell to the team of Ret. Marine Mark Light and his Hero Army Spc. John Ray tipping the scales with their Bass of 4 lbs. 6 oz. The Second Annual Spring Bass Challenge was won with a Big Bass Weighing in at 4lbs 11 ozs.,by the team of Ret Marine, Tim Barrons and his Hero Sgt. Steven Rush and Mike Worley. I asked Tim if he had a good time and he said that this was his first event and he and the heroes had a great time on the water. He also stated that he will do these events from now on because he sees what it means to our Nations Heroes. The top 10 in the standings look like this.

1st- Tim Barron, Sgt Steven Rush, Mike Worley 4 lbs 11 ozs.

2nd- Mark Light, Spc. John Ray 4 lbs. 6 ozs.

3rd_ Randy Quesenberry, Spc. John Marlett 4 lbs. 5 ozs.

4th_ Jim Sutton Sgt. Leslie Timms, Ralph Lotterman 4 lbs 1 oz.

5th_ Larry Martin, General Randy West, Little Randy West 4 lbs. 0 ozs.

6th_ Brian Green, Shawn Burke, Eddie O’Neal 3 lbs. 6 ozs.

7th_ Mark McGhee, Sgt Wilmer Apolo, Jim Vance 3 lbs. 5 ozs.

8th_ Kevin Phelphs, Amy Smith 3 lbs 4ozs.

9th_ A.J. Labossier, Sgt. James Howell, Phil Clark 3 lbs. 2 ozs.

10th_ Al Firelli, Sgt Cristal Griffin, Jeff Scott 3 lbs. 0 oz.

There was a mix up on the first place Out of the Money The award went to the team of Larry Cable and GySgt Alan Frederique with 2.13 but we were going by length to break the ties, so the team of Don Zaegel, his Hero, Cauldwell were 1st out of the money with 3 lbs and 18.5 ins. With the new format it takes some time to work out all of the bugs.

All who attended the event had a great time and we are looking forwarded to the Lake Anna Fall Bass Classic on September 25, 2010.

See you on the water.

K2

www.k2guideservice.com

Wounded Warriors Spring Bass Challenge

2010-05-16T06:09:00.002-04:00

I fished the Wounded Warriors Tx out of LSP yesterday and, as usual, we had a blast. This is a well run Tx by Ken Kirk and his group who this year, linked up with PVA (Paralyzed Veterans of America). If you have not yet fished one of these, I can honestly say, you don't know what you're missing. Such a wonderful cause to get our soldiers out on the water for a day.

Met the group at 6AM as blastoff was 8AM. Chatted with a lot of fellow anglers, sponsors, etc. A film crew and Jim Vance fron NBC4 was there shooting, and Vance actually fished the TX. Great guy. He said it should be aired Tuesday or Wednesday night at 6PM.

I did not draw a wounded warrior this year, but instead hooked up with a fine gentleman and his son. Randy West and Little Randy. General Randy West heads up the local fundraising effort for PVA and works with some great sponsors we had this year.

Fishing was tough yesterday, as the wind was relentless. Being as this was a "big fish" only Tx, I decided early on to throw mainly big fish baits. I guess it worked out OK. Our biggest fish was 4.00 lbs. even and we came in fifth. Jim Sutton (you dog) came in fourth with 4.01 lbs. 4 lb 11 oz. won it.

"LEARN LAKE ANNA"

2010-05-08T13:00:00.002-04:00

I realize that not everyone is a fisherman, but many people do own boats. Do you (as a boatowner) really know the water you cruise on? Probably not as well as you should. I can help you with that problem. I am now offering to show you "Lake Anna". If you need one or more of following, please call me at 540-222-5420 or e-mail me at gotdirt@martinsmaterials.com for more info and rates. Thanks.
***Learn Lake Anna from the water before buying, renting or building a house or purchasing a waterfront lot.
***Learn what hazards, shallows, underwater obstructions and no wake areas exist on the lake, as many of these are not marked or shown on maps.
***Learn lake restrictions, safety gear, required boating courses, etc.
***Learn areas for fishing, swimming, water skiing, beaches, etc.
***Learn the area marinas and boat shops and what they supply and work on.
***We use my 21' Triton Bassboat and can carry up to three people.

Lake Holiday

2010-04-26T17:16:00.003-04:00

A fishing friend of mine, Jr. Hillyard, invited me to fish a small 8 boat tournament yesterday at Lake Holiday close to his home in Winchester, Virginia. We caught over 25 fish with 5 of them being smallmouth and the rest largemouth. I caught the biggest smallmouth of my life...a 4.7 lb.....21" citation. We came in third place just ounces from big fish and a check. A great time and plenty of fish. See you on the water.

4-10-10 VAO TX

2010-04-11T07:24:00.002-04:00

Lee and I finally got a chance to get out on the Potomac River to day and fish the VAO TX out of Hope Springs marina. Caught 17 fish total, but only weighed in 4 keepers for 8.21 lbs and 3rd place. Tough day but nice to be out.

Weekend results

2010-03-29T06:42:00.003-04:00

This past weekend had mixed results to say the least. After the very nice weather from last weekend in the 70's, we dropped down into the high of low 50's on Saturday and Sunday. This resulted in water temperature's dropping significantly on Lake Anna and the Potomac River. Whatever ground we were gaining , we lost. I think we can make that up though this coming weekend as temp's are supposed to climb into the 80's. Anyway, my friend Jr. Hillyard and I fished the VAO Open on Saturday and he caught 3 keepers and I lost 3 keepers. Came in 1 place out of the $$ as usual. The picture is of Jr. with three for 5.22 lbs. Not a great day, but a good time with friends. Other area results are listed as well.
LAPR - Potomac River -3-28-10
http://www.laprbass.com/results.php?t=137

FLW - Lake Norman - 3-27-10
http://flw.flwoutdoors.com/tournamen...id=0&t=results

BWS / ABA - Lake Gaston - 3-27-10
http://www.abaproam.com/results/359.pdf

This past weekend results

2010-03-22T07:21:00.002-04:00

Here are the results from some of the local tournaments we fish on Lake Anna and the Potomac River from this past weekend. While I was unable to fish, there were plenty of boats out in the beautiful mid-70 degree weather taking my place.

LAPR-Potomac River 3-21-10
http://www.laprbass.com/results.php?t=135

Championship Teams - Potomac River 3-20-10
http://www.championshipteams.net/03202010.htm

FOM - Lake Anna - 3-20-10
http://www.fomntt.com/team/standings...e=eid&eid=2226

Lake Anna Report

2010-03-14T06:40:00.002-04:00

I was on Lake Anna last Tuesday pre-fishing for a VAO tournament that was yesterday (Saturday 3-13-10)...Temps and water was looking real good until the last 2 two days of torrentail rain with flooding conditions. So yesterday, Lee and I put on all the foul weather gear we owned, prepareing for another 3" of rain and wind 25mph with gusts to 40 mph. Well, the weather man threw everyone a curve ball in that particular area of the dtate and none of the above ever happened. Not much rain and hardly any wind. Either way, we couldn't get a decent bite going and wound up with only 2 fish for 4+lbs and 7th place. All in all a great day to be out with son and other friends. The winners did find enough fish chasing bait (pictured above) to come in with over 14 lbs.

A BIG 'ol PIG!!!!

2010-03-01T12:27:00.002-05:00

My friend and fellow VAO member, Garry Cramer, was fishing with another member/friend, (Jim Whitman), this past Saturday in the Championship Teams Open at Lake Anna and Garry proceeded to catch a fish of his lifetime. This one weighed 9.11 lbs. and got the team a third place finish with just one fish. Kudos to Garry and also to Jim for putting him on the "right spot". Jim's Yamaha outboard on his Basscat didn't fair as well, as a piston went vertical and a rod went to the lower unit. I know Jim will be up and running in no time though.

VAO Fling before Spring

2010-02-22T06:43:00.002-05:00

The va-outdoors.com website had it's second Weekend series of this year yesterday. The "Fling before Spring" event drew 12 boats and I think everyone was more than ready to shake off the winter blues and snow. Lee and I finished in second place with 3 fish at 7.5 lbs. An enjoyable day with my son and friends.

Snow Dropshotting

2010-02-14T04:41:00.004-05:00

OK. Everyone knows that we have had a tremendous amount of snow here in Virginia. Can't work, can't hunt, can't fish, so what is a fisherman supposed to do? Make a video of course. Please enjoy this video I made, and I hope it makes you smile a little.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=90l2vBlGelE

2010 Blizzard

2010-02-07T17:40:00.002-05:00

We just had over 22" of snow here in Warrenton, Virginia. Took us quite a while to dig out just to get to the road which has not been plowed yet. Poor boat has not moved in a month and it will take some doing to get it out. Lee and I have a tournament on February 21st, so I hope we can make it. Calling for 5"+ more snow on Tuesday evening. Wonderful.

More Chantilly show footage

2010-01-24T11:20:00.002-05:00

While at the Chantilly show yesterday, I shot some video of Neil Selby's dog from Shady Grove Kennel. He trains them well.

Chantilly Show

2010-01-23T07:05:00.003-05:00

Went to the Nations Outdoor Show in Chantilly last evening. A fair amount of hunting & fishing displays, guides, seminars, knives, tackle, hunting dogs, etc.Pictures are off Chris McCotter and Chris Craft doing a seminar on bass & crappie fishing on Lake Anna.

Richmond Fishing Show

2010-01-20T07:23:00.002-05:00

Went to the Richmond Fishing Show last weekend. Met quite a few friends and talked a lot of fishing and related stories. Sat in on Teddy Carr's seminar on Lake Anna. He is a character and if you ever get a chance to hire him as a guide I can guarantee you will have a fun time and catch fish. Chris McCotter and Chris Craft were also there and are both excellent guides on Lake Anna. This coming weekend, (January 22-24) they will all be at the Nation's Outdoor Show in Chantilly. Lots of local guides and seminars there.

BASS FISHING LESSONS

2010-01-11T07:08:00.002-05:00

Fast forward to the future

2010-01-07T08:16:00.002-05:00

I guess if work doesn't pick up soon, this will be me in the future.

Goodbye 2009...Hello 2010

2010-01-01T16:55:00.002-05:00

Well. 2009 is over and it was fair to me as far as fishing goes. Up and downs mostly with few banner days. I even placed in the money a few times with Lee and won a nice tournament on Lake Anna with my fellow VAO member Garry. I do believe that 2010 will bring the best out in me and the fishing community as well. With the economy shaping up in 2010 to be about the same as 2009 there will less money spent on high tournament fees. That puts in to play the smaller tournament series such as VAO, HNL and SCM opens. It also means fishing less tournaments period. It all boils down to fishing with less stress, financially and competitively. I look forward to just getting out and fishing with the friends I have made recently, Lee and maybe start the grandkids on bluegill and crappie. (might be a tad early for that). Anyway I hope to see you all the water soon and/or at the fishing shows or flea markets, which are listed below.

Fishing Expo at Timonium, MD..........1-14 thru 1-17

Fishing Expo at Richmond, VA............1-15 thru 1-17

Nations Outdoor Show at Chantilly, VA........1-22 thru 1-24

Falmouth Fishing Flea Market...........1-31

Sterling Fishing Flea Market...............2-13

Twas the night before Christmas.........

2009-12-22T18:06:00.001-05:00

THE VA-OUTDOORS CHRISTMAS POEM
By "Dirtman"
with VAO members
T’was the night before Christmas, and all VAO members were hyper
But not a bassboat was launching, not even ol’ Striper’s
The livewells were buzzin & "Rejuvenade" added with care
In hopes that Lunker’s website would soon be square
BigC & Tightline were nestled all snug in their bed
While visions of "Hooknline" members danced in their head
With Cash & Cujo in the Tracker & Jim in his Basscat
They had all settled down for a long winter’s nap
When out on the lake, there arose such a clatter
It must be Gman, doing cannonballs in the water
Away to the transom Dirtman flew like a flash
When asked "You OK?", the response…."Kiss my ass!"
The Sturgeon Creek fog on the new fallen snow
Made Dave Fauntleroy pause…….. for he knew we’d still go
When over his weak bullhorn, no doubt we would hear
"Let’s get ready to go fishin", the time is near.
With the Verado so quiet, so lively and quick
And the fourth set of batteries, "could this be St. Nick?"
By lighting a Cohiba, his co-anglers they came
Squire yelled "more Merlot", and called them by name
Now ChrisB, Now G, Now JayT and Jigman
On Stratos, On JJ, On Wayne and Vbfntritonman
To the top of Pamunkey, all the way to the Dam
Now Shakeyhead, Onefishaway, and also Hawgman
As dry leaves before a wild hurricane fly
He knew without McCotter’s blog, he could not get by
So back into Highpoint, to weigh-in he flew
Following TeddyCarr, Rudedog & Jim Hemby too
And then in a twinkling, there was still quite a muster
As Charlie’s loud Mercury shot by sans muffler
With hands on our ears, as we all turned around
In came G3Mike with about 18 pounds

As his fish hit the scales, Mike’s hat oh so weary
But wait, one team left, it was Jlawx & Scary
A big ol’ sack, they had flung on their back
31Airbourne knew then & there, that was that
With a striper for dinner, held tight in his lap
Leewood asked Rob, "Where’s Bill1wts, Gracie and Zack?"
In came Bfelts, Ccbassn, Skeet1 & Blueranger
BigE exclaimed "I think they’re in danger!"
We spoke not a word, and headed straight down the lake
Tritons, Trackers, Rangers, all models, all makes
At Dike II , Bill’s pontoon….. located at last
They were "crappie" fishing and having a blast
They were chubby & plump…just right to fry
As Ducknfish laughed along with Gambleon5
A wink from Deadeye & a nod from Exfishhead
Made Kris481vs & Slf300wby long handles nothing to dread
Wayne jumped on his trolling motor & to all, gave a shout
"Time to head to Chelsea Joe’s for a cold glass of stout"
But we heard G exclaim as "Baby Blue" made the ramp
"Merry Christmas to all & to all "I’M STILL DAMP!"
Christmas 2009

NEW e-mail address

2009-12-10T08:24:00.000-05:00

My NEW e-mail address is gotdirt@martinsmaterials.com

Lake Manassas Work Session

2009-12-08T05:45:00.001-05:00

I went to the Lake Manassas work session last night to check it out. The meeting went well. It included the City of Manassas Council, the Mayor, the Chief of Police, Public Works officials, VDGIF representative John Odenkirk and a host of around 75-80 others. In the crowd were quite a few fisherman. Some I knew and some I didn't. Charlie Taylor (sports writer) and Rob Grike (CBANV) were a couple that I did know and chatted with briefly. This was an outstanding showing for our sport and to show that we mean business when it comes to opening Lake Manassas back up to the public. However, the City Council mentioned upfront that this would be a work session and NO comment from the public that attended would be allowed.Anyway, the meeting opened with Mike Moon from Public Works giving a history of what had happened to close the Lake in 1999 and the process that led them to working with VDGIF on this new venture. He also explained the work that has been done so far and what he/VDGIF propose. The proposal goes something like this.Brookfield Homes at Saranac on Glenkirk Road has a 20 acre parcel of waterfront land they want to donate to the state. It lays just east of the dam. If this happens, it would fall into the hands of VDGIF and be the new access to the lake. They would contract with someone to open and run a concession /ramp much like Lake Brittle or the old marina at Lake Manassas. This would leave City of Manassas pretty much out of the picture, but they would have to monitor water quality, put in dam protection , etc. (They are still a little concerned about the Zebra Mussel thing, so monitoring boat livewell water brought in from surrounding areas would be an issue.)So, without a total commitment on their part, the City Council moved that the process, meetings, details, investigation into possible problems, etc. between the landowner (Brookfield Homes), the City and VDGIF continue and hopefully within a couple of years (by John Odenkirk's estimation) we would again be allowed on the lake.This is only Step 1 folks. If I hear of anything else on this, I will be sure to post it.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T06:12:00.002-05:00

To all of my followers, friends, clients, and most of all my family.......Have a Happy and safe Thanksgiving.

VAO Turkey Bowl

2009-11-22T06:49:00.003-05:00

The members of the Virginia Outdoors website held our First Annual Turkey Bowl tournament on Lake Anna yesterday. It was a beautiful day to be on the water with friends, members and competitors. While we only had nine boats, if felt as if we were in the biggest tounament of our lives. First went to Wayne & Jeff with a little over 11 lbs. Second was JayT & Eric with 8.42 lbs. Third was yours truly & Steve (Squire) with 8.30 lbs. Afterwards, we all went up to Chelsea Joe's restaurant to have food and drinks. Already looking forward to next year's Second Annual Turkey Bowl.

Deer hunting

2009-11-18T09:35:00.003-05:00

I hunted the opening day of rifle season for deer in Hume and took this nice looking 8 pointer. While not a monster, it did have a 17" inside spread.

When I'm not fishing / hunting / working.........

2009-11-12T07:32:00.005-05:00

......."this" is what I love doing next. My Dad was quite the craftsman and woodworker and he passed a few of his traits down to me. Some good, some bad. Anyway, I love woodworking as my third hobby. Here are a few of my recent projects.

Before

My wife had an old chest of drawers that came from her family and had gone through the kids home's and I was about to trash it and she got a little emotional, so I decided to keep it (without her knowing), tearing it dowm and making her a nice coffee table for her birthday.

After

Last Christmas, I made the two grand-daughters some "turtle" step stools / folding chairs.

Lake Anna Cup 11-8-09

2009-11-09T07:04:00.002-05:00

Lee and I fished the Lake Anna Cup trying to compete for the top $2,000 winner take all money yesterday. While the weather was beautiful and the competitors (62 boats) were ready to go fishing, it was again not about fishing, but the comradery and just being out on the water with friends and family. This will probably be the last time Lee fishes with me for a while. He and his wife, Rhoda, are expecting their second little girl anytime now, Maggie. Big sister Molly is awaiting the event also. We only caught two keeper size fish the whole day, but all in all we had a great time. Of course Preston Cox & Larry Wollersheim won with 14.68 lbs. The lake fished very tough today for everyone. Hope to see you out there sometime.

It's not all about fishing!

2009-10-12T06:32:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, my friend, Steve McGuire (Squire for those that know him) and I elected to participate (donate) in the the LAPR bass tournament on Lake Anna. After getting a very early start from my house at 4:30AM we headed to the lake under a beautiful but chilly (39 degree) morning. We arrived a little early and a chance to talk with other fisherman and BS about the fishing. Today, there were around 30 boats for Dave Fauntleroy's well-run "get together". Now...............I am going to call it a "get together" because to me it is not a tournament any more. Yes, I like the challenge, the competition, the rewards, (sometimes), but what I look forward to the most in these "get togethers" is the chance to meet and be with people that enjoy the same sport/hobby that I do. Some of the stories you that hear at these gatherings are hilarious, while others are kind of sad. Talks about friends and family that have been ill and are recovering, a new baby coming, dislodging a hook in your partners hand, an accidental fall into the lake (you know who you are), a boat maintenance issue, a lot of old jokes, a birthday and of course, who won last week. As I sat on the bench yesterday and watched a local well-known angler weigh-in almost 22 lbs to win (compared to our 4 lbs), I noticed the variety in the crowd. An older man with his grand-daughter watching the weigh-in, a single mom and her son, a vacationing family, alot of young fisherman with dreams I had when I was their age. These people I saw are the future stories of tomorrow. Most of the competitors know one another and we all shook hands and congratulated each other or just said "hello" - "how you been"? The top five teams that weighed in from 15 lbs-22lbs. were the same ol" teams that have done it all season long and congratulations to them. I am realizing that they have done well before and will continue to do well. I will continue to fish against them and probably lose to them, but the "get together" is what I look forward to.

Lake Anna 10-6-09

2009-10-07T05:49:00.003-04:00

Fished yesterday at Lake Anna. What a difference a few weeks makes. I was the only trailer at SCM and only saw maybe six other boats the entire day. Put in at 7:30AM was 74 degrees and temps uplake in both Anna and Pamunkey were 70 degrees. Caught a few fish on a variety of methods. Mainly rattletraps, jigs, crankbaits . Water up in Anna is still fairly muddy with Pamunkey water much better. Key is to find baitfish. If you find a wind-blown stretch, the bait is there. If the bait is there, the bass are there. As evident by this picture, they ARE eating. This one was a chunk. Normally a 3.25 lb. fish.....this one was pushing 4 lbs.

Caroline County Rotary Club Invitational @ LKA

2009-09-28T17:12:00.003-04:00

My friend, Garry Cramer and I fished the Caroline County Rotary Club Invitational at Lake Anna yesterday and won it with 15.51 lbs. Garry caught most of the fish and he had big fish for the tournament with a 5.79 lb. hog. All this added up for a enjoyable day on the lake and a check for $2190.00

Team Grand-daughters

2009-09-26T16:30:00.001-04:00

Molly and Rachel fishing last month.

Today at Lake Anna

2009-08-26T17:14:00.002-04:00

Had the day off so I went to Lake Anna to try a prototype dropshot rod out for a friend. Caught about a dozen fish ranging from dinks to a 3 lber on the dropshot in various locations. Went uplake to a set of docks in Pamunkey and whacked this 5.63 lber on a jig & pig. 1" shy of a citation. Oh well.

Oldies, but goodies!

2009-08-21T18:20:00.003-04:00

From time to time, I like to look back at old fishing pictures and remember the moment. Here are a few. From the top clockwise......My wonderful wife of 37 years, Linda, with Hank Parker at a fishing show in 2003; a 5 lb 12 oz. bass at Lake Anna in August, 2000 and a 25 lb. rockfish on the Chesapeake Bay in 1999.

A few river fish from today.

2009-08-13T17:25:00.003-04:00

Lee and I went today for about 5 hrs. on the Potomac. Biggest was 4 lb. 8 oz........next 3 lb. 11 oz....and so on. The frog bite is on pretty good.

August Tournament Calendar

2009-08-08T16:31:00.000-04:00

http://va-outdoors.com/calendar.php

Doug Ball Memorial Fish Hab Construction

2009-08-08T16:14:00.004-04:00

Today, Chris McCotter gathered around 20 guys and gals and we all volunteered to construct 11 Berkley fish habs in the name of Doug Ball. Doug passsed away in May, 2008 and was an avid fisherman / guide for many years on Lake Anna. While I personally did not know Doug, I have heard some nice stories about his ability to always catch fish on Lake Anna. The structures will be placed by VDGIF on Tuesday at the old fish structure #5 downlake across from Dike 1 and a marker bouy installed with Doug's name on it.

Bass fishing lessons

2009-08-03T08:45:00.002-04:00

I have been thinking about this for a while. I have seen thru many years of observing people, that some may try to pattern themselves thru the actions of others. That said, fisherman are no different. I am "not a guide" or a "pro", but when it comes to fishing I think I have something I could teach to people who are willing to learn. If you would like to learn the basics or the details of bass fishing on lakes and rivers, I will tailor a lesson that is for "you". In the time spent with me, you will learn about casting, rigging, use of rods/reels, line, knots, variety of lures (no live bait), and all at your choice of location. That's right........I will come to you. Whether you want on the water (fishing license required) or on dry land, it doesn't matter. Call me today at 540-222-5420 or e-mail me at lmartin@blackhawke.net for rates and availability.

Lake Anna 7-24-09

2009-07-25T17:35:00.004-04:00

Went to Lake Anna yesterday just to check some things out. Went uplake and caught one in the muddy water (note the white coloration). Went back around mid-lake and caught one deep in a 25' brushpile (note the green coloration).

St. Judes benefit Tournament

2009-07-11T08:38:00.002-04:00

Lee and I fished the St. Jude's tournament for the first time yesterday on the Potomac. We had 43 boats and were able to raise $4000 for St. Judes. A VERY worthy cause. First place team had over 17 lbs. for $2900 and big fish at 7.5 lbs. Paid down to fifth which a little over 15 lbs. Lee had the "hot" hand today as he put a limit in the boat by 8:30 with his favorite chatterbait. We wound up with only 10.38 lbs., but anytime I can fish with my son is a day to cherish. Sorry. no pictures.

July 5th Lake Anna Sunday Morning Series.

2009-07-05T16:47:00.002-04:00

My son (Lee) and I teamed up to place second in this tournament that Dave Fauntleroy has during the summer at Lake Anna. Had 11.99 lbs. with the biggest fish at 4.17 lbs. A good day on the lake, but we did get wet.

Some old "saltwater" stuff

2009-07-02T09:20:00.003-04:00

I kinda grew up on the Chesapeake Bay (weekends) and every year my Dad would take his 42' Chris Craft to Ocean City for the summer off shore season. Caught many, many white marlin, bluefish, wahoo, tuna, dolphin, etc. Thought I would post a few pictures of the ones I have mounted at the house and the boat in remembrance of my Dad. He would have been 100 years old yesterday.

July 2009 Tournament Schedule

2009-06-30T06:27:00.001-04:00

http://va-outdoors.com/calendar.php?month=7&year=2009&c=1&do=displaymonth

Potomac River PIG

2009-06-29T19:56:00.002-04:00

Went fishing with my brother, Tom, last Friday on the Potomac River and caught this 6 lb. even bass. The river is on fire right now. They are biting just about anything. Many 20 lb. + bags are being weighed in at the local tournaments.

Lake Anna 4 lbers.

2009-06-29T19:52:00.002-04:00

Went fishing at Lake Anna on 6-19 with a VAO friend, Steve McGuire and found two four lbers. that were willing to bite.

June Tournaments

2009-06-18T04:15:00.002-04:00

June Tournaments @ Lake Anna
6-20.....VAO Open @ SCM...Lake Anna...5:30-1:30...$60.00 entry
6-21.....Sunday Morning Series @ SCM...Lake Anna...6:00-10:30......$100.00
6-23 & 6-30......Tues Night TX @ SCM...Lake Anna...6:00-9:30........$50.00
6-19 & 6-26.......Fri. Night TX @ Highpoint...Lake Anna.....6:30-9:30...$30.00
6-27.....HooknLineBassAnglers Open @ SCM...Lake Anna...5;30-1:30...$60.00

June Tournaments @ Potomac River
6-28....LAPR @ Leesylvania........6:00-2:00......$160.00
6-23 & 6-30....Warbirds Tues Night TX @ Leeslyvania......5:00-9:00......$50.00
6-24....Aquia Creek Wed. night TX @ Hope Springs............5:00-9:00......$50.00

Future fisherwomen????

2009-06-08T06:21:00.003-04:00

Here are some pic's of my two grand-daughters on the boat. Molly was small when she didn't seem to care for the driver's seat and Rachel, recently did very well at the helm. Can't wait for our first outing together.

CUSTOM MADE FISH HABS FOR SALE

2009-06-04T16:48:00.001-04:00

A few fish of the past........

2009-06-03T08:57:00.004-04:00

Here's a few fish from the past. Most came from Lake Anna. That's Lee, my son, in the picture.

Wounded Warriors TX 2009

2009-06-02T15:43:00.005-04:00

I did my part to try to boost some moral for our troops this past Saturday in the 1st Annual Wounded Warriors tournament out of Smallwood Park on the Potomac. This is a great event and it's a chance to give back a little to those who have served our great country. We didn't catch a lot of fish, but that was really not the purpose. Pictured below are my "marine" and I with 4 fish for 9.46 lbs. We came in 15th. Below that is an article in Sunday's Washington Post about the event. Thanks go out to Ken Kirk, Jeremiah Caitlin, Dave Fauntleroy and the many other volunteers & boaters that made this happen.