Inside Elite Boats: John Crews

John Crews is a Progressive Bassmaster Elite Series original, having joined the tour when it launched in 2006. His rig of choice is a Bass Cat Lynx STS spanning 20 feet, 7 inches and offering unmatched storage in its class, exceptional comfort and a build for performance. This rare photo gallery shows his tournament-ready layout, on the eve of the 2026 Lowrance Bassmaster Elite at St. Lawrence River, also the final event of the season.

The bow suite of electronics features a Russell Marine Products FLEX 19-inch Monitor that mirrors the console mounted Lowrance HDS Pro 12, also linked to the Lowrance ActiveTarget 2. The monitor provides exceptional clarity, full HD resolution and enhances targets against a deep black background. Below is a Humminbird Xplore 12 used primarily for Humminbird MEGA 360 Imaging.

Both units are held in place with a Bass Boat Technologies Dual Bow Mount.

Also mounted at the bow is a Power-Pole Move Trolling Motor.

Mounted to the 52-inch shaft is the Humminbird MEGA Live transducer.

And the Lowrance ActiveTarget 2 transducer.

A port side storage forward of the console features a day box for storing raingear with electronics modules.

The front deck is ideally designed for optimum maneuverability for any fishing tactic, and there’s more than adequate, spacious storage below.

The console is decorated in the design and colors of Crews’ favorite cause, which is Autism Awareness.

And now for an inside look at the tackle in play for the St. Lawrence River and perhaps Lake Ontario.

The starboard rod compartment spans 8 feet and holds up to 30 baitcasters in Bass Cat Rod Dividers.

The center console is customized for the finesse and other tactics in play on the river and big water.

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Everything is organized for quick access.

Inside the port side storage are spinning rigs, a helmet (which will be worn on Lake Ontario) and spare PFD.

The smaller storage just aft of the console is ideal for storing frequently used and easy-to-find items.

This compartment will hold ice for the livewell to reduce stress for the smallmouth.

See other features of Crews’ rig …

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Hand tools are stored in specific areas near the center console for easy identification and quick use.

At the console is a Power-Pole Vision Marine Infotainment Center that combines boat control applications with vivid satellite imagery and maps and access to other apps controlled and displayed on the screen.

At the opposite side is the Lowrance HDS Pro 12.

Mounted on the left side of the console is this Power-Pole Move Control and Charging Cradle. It provides Anchor Mode, Active Heading and Anchor Controls all from one wireless remote. And the mounting location makes it easy to grab and use.

Below the console is a Bob’s Machine Shop Foot Throttle.

More boat controls …

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The driver, passenger and center compartments provide more spacious storage options.

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The rear deck has Bass Cat’s signature storage compartment layout for customized options.

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Terminal tackle and hooks are easily organized and accessed behind the driver’s seat.

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Beside the livewell compartment is storage specifically used to access the Power-Pole Dual Anchor Pump.

The Lyra has a fuel capacity of 54 gallons.

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The rear compartment has storage for a Lithium Pros 12.8V 215Ah Starting Battery, Lithium Pros 38.4V 75Ah Lithium-Ion Trolling Battery and two additional Lithium Pros.