2009 Elite Series Blue Ridge Brawl - Kevin VanDam

The first boats begin to arrive for the Day One launch on Smith Mountain Lake.

Kevin VanDam (Tied 12th, 15-7)

Kevin VanDam (First, 32-9)

Kevin VanDam leads the field of 50 boats out onto Smith Mountain Lake to get Day Three started.

As KVD exits the no-wake area, he gets on pad signaling the start to the third day of competition.

The morning leader, Kevin VanDam, hooks up with a fish on a shallow point.

VanDam cradles the fish and manages to cull a smaller bass he had caught earlier in the day.

Kevin VanDam checks in at the end of the day with enough fish to hold the lead. After three days on Smith Mountain Lake, VanDam came in with 47 pounds, 15 ounces.

Kevin VanDam is poised to win his 15th BASS event and will go into the final day of fishing with a 3 pound, 7 ounce lead over 2nd place contender Matt Herren.

Kevin VanDam (First, 47-15)

VanDam stands looking out over Smith Mountain Lake in his quest for his fifth Elite Series victory.

Kevin VanDam would catch enough Smith Mountain Lake bass on Day Four to earn his 15th BASS title with a total weight of 61 pounds, 13 ounces.

Tournament champion Kevin VanDam is congratulated by second place finisher Matt Herren.

Another BASS trophy that would be presented to Kevin VanDam.

Fans greet Kevin VanDam as he walks towards the stage.

Kevin VanDam (1st, 13-14)