Kota’s American Dream from Arkansas

Kota’s American Dream tournament takes winners of a derby he hosts in Japan and takes them to the BassCat Owners’ Tournament here in the United States.

May 12, 2014

Here, the winners from Lake Kitaura are in front of BassCatâs new building in Mountain Home, Ark., with BassCatâs Rick Pierce.

Takuya Hashimoto said that BassCats are still the fastest, even up in the air!

Here Ryo Shinotsuka sits in the upright Jaguar.

Hold on tight!

Here, Ryo is checking out different BassCat models as heâs looking to buy one.

The gang went to Coltonâs steakhouse, and he took down the whole thing!

The team was provided a Puma FTD to fish the BassCat Invitational.

Here, Kiriyama talks to the team about Lake Norfork, offering tips on how to break it down.

The team begins fishing on Norfork.

Despite the cold, the team was all smiles.

Kiriyama points out shallow spots and other hazards on Norfork.

Ready to roll!

The team shopped at a nearby tackle depot and stocked up on baits and info.

Registration at the Ramada Inn. The team was accompanied by the Chief Editor of <i>Lure Magazine</i>, Michael Nomura. Nomura plans to write a story in <i>Lure </i>about the teamâs journey to the U.S. — Registration at the Ramada Inn. The team was accompanied by the Chief Editor of Lure Magazine, Michael Nomura. Nomura plans to write a story in Lure about the teamâs journey to the U.S.

Here they get their boat number and rule book.

The grand prize for the BassCat Invitational was a 2014 BassCat Eyra, which the team was hoping to bring back to Japan.

Here are the teamâs keepers from the first day.

At the tanks, the team was a little nervous and excited about getting on stage.

Here, Takuya meets his fishing idol, Mike Iaconelli.

While on the stage, BassCat pro John Crews interviewed the team.

The team speaks with BassCatâs Rick Pierce about their day on the water.

After Day 1, the Mountain Home, Ark., High School team provided the food. The pair was excited to meet the ladies.

Taku takes a picture in front of the girls and the food.

Here, some BassCat fans meet the team and pose for photos.

They were asked to sign hats.

At Mountain Home Highâs gym, Rick Pierce gives away prizes as the team and Kiriyama watch on.

Kiriyama translates as the team is interviewed about their experience.

Strike King gave away some baits.

Here the team meets with Jan Pierce of Bass Cat.

A team from the Top 10 discuss tackle and tactics with team Japan.