Benton to off a monster start at St. Johns — again

Those who just watched Drew Benton’s thrilling catch of a 6 1/2-pound spawning largemouth on the Bassmaster LIVE Mix might remember that he started his Elite Series career much the same way when the tour was here on the St. Johns River in 2016.

During that event — the first of what would turn out to be his Rookie of the Year season — the Florida pro landed five bass that weighed 22 pounds, 15 ounces on Day 1 and finished the round in second place. He was fishing mostly for bedding fish in that event as well and credited “young eyes” for his success.

He ultimately finished fourth in the 2016 tournament with 20 bass that weighed 75-6.

He’s already got the makings of another great start.