Fantasy Fishing: A different Tennessee River

Written by

Solomon Glenn

Minnesota

The big one is here! The Bassmaster Classic returns to Knoxville and the Tennessee River. The iconic venue has produced a challenging puzzle over the last couple of visits, but the results have been memorable. The common factor with the past two events was the winner of both, Jeff Gustafson, who, unfortunately, is not in the Classic this go around. I think we will see a much different Tennessee River this time, with the number of young hammers in this field and forward-facing sonar still in play. I believe some of the young guns will find some sneaky things for either largemouth or smallmouth.

Another difference is a 15-inch size limit on smallmouth, versus 18 inches in the past. The 18-inch size limit stopped many anglers from targeting smallmouth because of the risk of not being able to catch a limit of overs. We should see a lot more limits this year, and anglers finding some sneaky smallmouth deals.

From an outside viewer, Knoxville always looked like a place that should be a smash fest; however, history has shown us that it can definitely be a challenge. Weather conditions will greatly dictate how this one will play out. I’m excited to see it go down!

Bucket A: FOTHERGILL

We’ve seen back-to-back Classic champs a number of times, and I think the Tennessee River in Knoxville sets up very well for him to bet the next. The combination of a tough fishery and the smallmouth wildcard puts it right up Fothergill’s alley. He’s also hot off a Top 10 at Martin, so he has far more momentum than last year.

Solid secondary pick: It’s only a matter of time before Trey McKinney claims the Classic trophy, as he has been knocking on the door. McKinney catches them just about everywhere and will most likely see another strong showing.

Bucket B: SCHMITT

Currently at about 5% picked, Bryan Schmitt is a bargain of a pick for the Tennessee River runner-up from 2023. Schmitt is a master river fisherman and is very likely to figure something out, no matter the conditions. Largemouth, smallmouth, he can catch them all, and has done very well on various sections of the Tennessee River

Solid secondary pick: I’m having a hard time deciding between a finesse guy in Taku Ito or a more power fisherman. But Taku Ito has had a couple of solid showings and could be a big player, especially if he goes for a smallmouth bite. I also feel like Tyler Williams could be a sneaky pick with his mastery of the jig.

Bucket C: MEYER

Cody Meyer is going into his very first Bassmaster Classic, which is kinda weird to say with the career he has had. He is no stranger to big events and will definitely look to make a statement. It just seems like a place Meyer could excel with his mastery of finesse and his ability to target big fish.

Solid secondary pick: While Gussy is absent, he could see a charge from Canadian anglers. Cooper Gallant has been fishing really well lately and could make his mark on the Classic this year. With more smallmouth in play, Gallant should be very comfortable.

Bucket D: NUTT

It’s that time of year again, when Dylan Nutt has done some incredible things on the Tennessee River. While most of his damage is done on different sections like Pickwick and Guntersville, the Nashville native isn’t too far from this playing field. Dylan knows how to catch the biggest fish in the lake and could make a statement in the biggest tournament of this life.

Solid secondary pick: Half the fantasy players are picking Fisher Anaya in Bucket D and for good reason. Anaya has about as much momentum as one can have and is hot off his first Elite win in just his second try. Wouldn’t be surprised if he kept it going with the biggest win of all time.

Bucket E: BERLINSKY

The state of Tennessee has been very good to Tripp Berlinsky being where he’s won the College Bracket, College Team of the Year, and placed 4^th in the College Championship. He is a wizard at forward-facing sonar and has a track record of knowing how to get around the best quality fish. Doing well in the Classic would be some continuation of his Tennessee success. I see Berlinsky taking on the Tennessee River in full stride.

Solid secondary pick: Laker Howell seems to be the favorite in this bucket and for good reason. He’s been around the Classic a lot with his dad and should handle the pressure. Knoxville also sets up well for his style. I could also see a Dillon Falardeau faring well.