SANGER, Texas — Jared Penton's fishing mentor describes Penton as a trailblazer in Texas high school fishing.
Penton started the fishing team at his school, Sanger High School, has served as its president for the last two years and has mentored two other young anglers on the team.
"He is a leader both on and off the water through his organizing and participation in many volunteer projects," said Jeff Lobaugh, who serves as a boat captain and a mentor to Penton.
On the water, he has been a dominant force, qualifying for hte Texas B.A.S.S. Nation State Championship four times, taking the runner-up spot in the THSBA Angler of the Year race and winning a recent Fun N Sun Open.
Off the water, Penton is working to achieve the prestigious level of Eagle Scout, and he is in the final stages of completing his work to go before the board of review this summer. He also volunteers with a local food pantry and assists with multiple tournaments for kids. All the while, he has maintained solid grades throughout high school.
"Jared is an outstanding student," said Rene Hoff, who teaches English at Sanger High School and North Central Texas College. "His work ethic is contagious and helps his classmates strive to learn more."
Penton earned a place on the exclusive 2015 Bassmaster High School All-American team and will compete alongside a pro, June 6 on Lake Barkley, as part of the Zippo BASSfest presented by A.R.E. Truck Caps.