In country music, bass fishing has been a topical mainstay for years, alongside heartache, cold beer and a good time. It’s been crooned about by the likes of contemporary artists such as Brad Paisley (“I’m Gonna Miss Her” and “Catch all the Fish”), Craig Campbell (“My Baby Loves to Fish”), and Rhett Akins (“Weapons of Bass Destruction”) to more traditional acts such as the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band (“Fishin’ in the Dark”).
Now it seems country music is becoming a theme in the world of bass fishing, too. Just last week, Bassmaster Elite Series pro Alton Jones starred in a country music video written by the up-and-coming Rita Jones (no relation).
The song is about the average working man who dreams of fishing while he’s at work. 2008 Classic champ Jones and his friend Pat Curry both starred in the short video, where they play hooky to wet a line. The “Sittin’ Here Wishin’ That I Could Go Fishin’” video can be viewed on YouTube.
“As a professional fisherman, you’re used to the camera being around, but not really acting on camera. That’s different than just fishing while being on film,” Jones said. “You’ve got to learn to look happy when you’re supposed to be, and look worried when you’re supposed to be, so that took a bit of learning. All in all, though, it was a lot of fun and I wish Rita the best when it goes off to Nashville.
“I’m honored that she asked me to star in it,” he said.
Jones isn’t the only fisherman getting in on the country music action. Bassmaster Elite Series pro Casey Ashley is knocking on Nashville’s door with his fishy-themed album, Released. While he hopes the album will be a success, he’s not going to trade one tour of the country for another — the Elite Series for performances.
Likewise, Alton Jones doesn’t plan on taking up acting in lieu of fishing.
“While I can’t sing or act, I sure had a blast doing this,” he said. “I do know a thing or two about fishing.”