AOY: Where the Elites stand at halftime

Halfway through the 2015 season, some Elites are poised to contend for a Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year title, and some are struggling to make the Classic cut. Let's check in on the entire field.

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<p>Last year, Greg Hackney brought his first Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year home. With half the season done, let's check in on the 112 anglers vying for an AOY title of their own. B.A.S.S. Senior Writer Bryan Brasher breaks down the entire field's year so far, with four Elite Series events remaining in 2015. </p>
Last year, Greg Hackney brought his first Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year home. With half the season done, let’s check in on the 112 anglers vying for an AOY title of their own. B.A.S.S. Senior Writer Bryan Brasher breaks down the entire field’s year so far, with four Elite Series events remaining in 2015. 
<b>1. Dean Rojas:</b> Dean “The Machine” has more than lived up to his name through the half-way point of the season. He opened with a 19th-place finish on the Sabine River and an 11th-place showing at Guntersville. Then he shifted from high gear into turbo on the Western swing, placing third at the Sacramento River and sixth at Lake Havasu. Every time Rojas is in the lead or in position to win a tournament, he plays it off like he isn’t the least bit excited or concerned. But surely he must be stoked over being in the driver’s seat for his first AOY title.
1. Dean Rojas: Dean “The Machine” has more than lived up to his name through the half-way point of the season. He opened with a 19th-place finish on the Sabine River and an 11th-place showing at Guntersville. Then he shifted from high gear into turbo on the Western swing, placing third at the Sacramento River and sixth at Lake Havasu. Every time Rojas is in the lead or in position to win a tournament, he plays it off like he isn’t the least bit excited or concerned. But surely he must be stoked over being in the driver’s seat for his first AOY title.
<b>2. Justin Lucas: </b>Don’t call him an “up-and-coming young angler” anymore. After his first career B.A.S.S. victory at the Sacramento River, Lucas has officially arrived. That win, combined with a 10th-place finish at the Sabine River, a 30th-place finish at Guntersville and an eighth-place finish at Havasu, have made Lucas a serious contender for his first AOY crown.
2. Justin Lucas: Don’t call him an “up-and-coming young angler” anymore. After his first career B.A.S.S. victory at the Sacramento River, Lucas has officially arrived. That win, combined with a 10th-place finish at the Sabine River, a 30th-place finish at Guntersville and an eighth-place finish at Havasu, have made Lucas a serious contender for his first AOY crown.
3. Aaron Martens: With THREE Top 3 finishes this year (Sabine River, Sacramento River and Lake Havasu), why is Martens not leading this thing? Well, it’s because a 66th-place finish on Guntersville is dragging his point total down just a bit. A-Mart was grinning like a man who had life completely figured out after his stirring come-from-behind win at Havasu – and with two AOY titles already to his credit, it would be crazy to bet against him.
3. Aaron Martens: With THREE Top 3 finishes this year (Sabine River, Sacramento River and Lake Havasu), why is Martens not leading this thing? Well, it’s because a 66th-place finish on Guntersville is dragging his point total down just a bit. A-Mart was grinning like a man who had life completely figured out after his stirring come-from-behind win at Havasu – and with two AOY titles already to his credit, it would be crazy to bet against him.
4. Cliff Pirch: The disappointment was obvious in Pirch’s voice when Martens zoomed past him on the final day at Havasu. But that second-place finish, combined with a seventh-place showing at the Sacramento River and two 40th-place finishes to open the season, have put Pirch in prime position for a second-half AOY title run. He’s also in great shape to earn his third berth into the GEICO Bassmaster Classic.
4. Cliff Pirch: The disappointment was obvious in Pirch’s voice when Martens zoomed past him on the final day at Havasu. But that second-place finish, combined with a seventh-place showing at the Sacramento River and two 40th-place finishes to open the season, have put Pirch in prime position for a second-half AOY title run. He’s also in great shape to earn his third berth into the GEICO Bassmaster Classic.
5. Greg Vinson: Remember how Greg Vinson did on last year’s Elite Series? It’s OK if you don’t. He’d probably just as soon forget about it himself. Vinson earned only one check in 2014 and finished 62nd or worse in seven of the eight events. But boy is he making up for it this year. Through four events, he hasn’t missed a check with a high finish of eighth at Guntersville. He’s in great shape to make his fourth Classic and push for his first AOY crown.
5. Greg Vinson: Remember how Greg Vinson did on last year’s Elite Series? It’s OK if you don’t. He’d probably just as soon forget about it himself. Vinson earned only one check in 2014 and finished 62nd or worse in seven of the eight events. But boy is he making up for it this year. Through four events, he hasn’t missed a check with a high finish of eighth at Guntersville. He’s in great shape to make his fourth Classic and push for his first AOY crown.
6. Shaw Grigsby: At age 59, Grigsby is one of the elder statesmen on the Elite Series. But he’s shown he’s still got some swing in his stick this year, making the Top 25 in three of the first four events. He’s vying for his 16th Classic appearance and his first AOY title.
6. Shaw Grigsby: At age 59, Grigsby is one of the elder statesmen on the Elite Series. But he’s shown he’s still got some swing in his stick this year, making the Top 25 in three of the first four events. He’s vying for his 16th Classic appearance and his first AOY title.
7. Ish Monroe: Monroe has only really challenged for one tournament win this year, when he placed fourth at the Sacramento River. But he’s earned checks in all four events – and since consistency is the name of the AOY game, he’s in the hunt and right on track for a return to the Classic after missing this year’s event on Lake Hartwell.
7. Ish Monroe: Monroe has only really challenged for one tournament win this year, when he placed fourth at the Sacramento River. But he’s earned checks in all four events – and since consistency is the name of the AOY game, he’s in the hunt and right on track for a return to the Classic after missing this year’s event on Lake Hartwell.
8. Jacob Powroznik: Powroznik missed a check at the season-opener on the Sabine River, but he’s placed 19th, 16th and 31st since then. He’s a legitimate contender for his first AOY title, and his second Classic berth is well within his grasp.
8. Jacob Powroznik: Powroznik missed a check at the season-opener on the Sabine River, but he’s placed 19th, 16th and 31st since then. He’s a legitimate contender for his first AOY title, and his second Classic berth is well within his grasp.
9. Brent Ehrler: Who you calling a rookie? Since this is his first season on the Elite Series and he is technically a “rookie,” Ehrler has taken his share of ribbing. But he’s looked plenty experienced, finishing ninth, 28th and 13th in the last three events. It’s interesting to speculate what history might look like if he had joined the Elites a year earlier and qualified for this year’s Classic on Lake Hartwell. He has a brilliant history on Hartwell, which included an FLW Tour win in 2012, and he might have given Casey Ashley a run for his money. For now, he’s on track for a Classic berth – and like it or not, he’s leading the Rookie of the Year race.
9. Brent Ehrler: Who you calling a rookie? Since this is his first season on the Elite Series and he is technically a “rookie,” Ehrler has taken his share of ribbing. But he’s looked plenty experienced, finishing ninth, 28th and 13th in the last three events. It’s interesting to speculate what history might look like if he had joined the Elites a year earlier and qualified for this year’s Classic on Lake Hartwell. He has a brilliant history on Hartwell, which included an FLW Tour win in 2012, and he might have given Casey Ashley a run for his money. For now, he’s on track for a Classic berth – and like it or not, he’s leading the Rookie of the Year race.
10. Chris Lane: “The Champ” started 2015 with a win just like he did in 2014. He stumbled a bit with an 81st-place finish in the next event at Lake Guntersville, his new home lake. But he had a strong Western swing with a 12th on the Sacramento River and a 44th on Lake Havasu. With the 2012 Classic victory already to his credit, an AOY trophy is all that’s missing on Lane’s mantle.
10. Chris Lane: “The Champ” started 2015 with a win just like he did in 2014. He stumbled a bit with an 81st-place finish in the next event at Lake Guntersville, his new home lake. But he had a strong Western swing with a 12th on the Sacramento River and a 44th on Lake Havasu. With the 2012 Classic victory already to his credit, an AOY trophy is all that’s missing on Lane’s mantle.
11. John Crews: Crews led the AOY race after finishing sixth on the Sabine River and 14th at Guntersville. But he fell to 34th at the Sacramento River and missed a check for the first time all season with an 84th-place showing at Havasu. Now the trail is headed back toward his Eastern stomping grounds with Crews in excellent position to make his 10th Classic.
11. John Crews: Crews led the AOY race after finishing sixth on the Sabine River and 14th at Guntersville. But he fell to 34th at the Sacramento River and missed a check for the first time all season with an 84th-place showing at Havasu. Now the trail is headed back toward his Eastern stomping grounds with Crews in excellent position to make his 10th Classic.
12. Skeet Reese: After a sub-par day at Lake Havasu, Reese quipped that he might have “messed up the end-of-the-year deal.” But despite his 72nd-place showing at Havasu, he’s still a major player in the race, thanks mainly to a win at Guntersville and a 15th-place finish at Sacramento.
12. Skeet Reese: After a sub-par day at Lake Havasu, Reese quipped that he might have “messed up the end-of-the-year deal.” But despite his 72nd-place showing at Havasu, he’s still a major player in the race, thanks mainly to a win at Guntersville and a 15th-place finish at Sacramento.
13. Bernie Schultz: All Schultz has done this year is earn a check at every single event with a high finish of 17th at Sacramento. He’s in line for his ninth career Classic appearance.
13. Bernie Schultz: All Schultz has done this year is earn a check at every single event with a high finish of 17th at Sacramento. He’s in line for his ninth career Classic appearance.
14. Bill Lowen: Lowen recently fished his 100th career tournament with B.A.S.S. – and with checks in three of the four events this year, he’s in a good spot to make his eighth Classic appearance at Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees. Wonder which song his children, Nevaeh and Fischer, will choose for him in Tulsa? It’ll be hard to top “Let it Go” from Frozen.
14. Bill Lowen: Lowen recently fished his 100th career tournament with B.A.S.S. – and with checks in three of the four events this year, he’s in a good spot to make his eighth Classic appearance at Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees. Wonder which song his children, Nevaeh and Fischer, will choose for him in Tulsa? It’ll be hard to top “Let it Go” from Frozen.
15. Chris Zaldain: Zaldain turned in the biggest single-day catch on the Elite Series so far with 30 pounds, 7 ounces on Day 1 at Sacramento. That bag was anchored by a 12-pound largemouth that ranks as the largest fish caught this year on the Elite Series. The monstrous day helped him to a fifth-place finish and placed him firmly in the AOY race.
15. Chris Zaldain: Zaldain turned in the biggest single-day catch on the Elite Series so far with 30 pounds, 7 ounces on Day 1 at Sacramento. That bag was anchored by a 12-pound largemouth that ranks as the largest fish caught this year on the Elite Series. The monstrous day helped him to a fifth-place finish and placed him firmly in the AOY race.
16. Kevin VanDam: It looks like the rumors of VanDam’s career demise might have been premature. After missing the Classic last year for the first time in his career, the 20-time B.A.S.S. winner has placed himself back in Classic contention with finishes of 46th, 45th, 13th and 58th.
16. Kevin VanDam: It looks like the rumors of VanDam’s career demise might have been premature. After missing the Classic last year for the first time in his career, the 20-time B.A.S.S. winner has placed himself back in Classic contention with finishes of 46th, 45th, 13th and 58th.
17. Jason Christie: With the Classic headed for his home lake in Tulsa, Okla., there is perhaps no one more anxious to qualify than Christie. He’s in good shape to do it after finishes of 81st, seventh, ninth and 65th.
17. Jason Christie: With the Classic headed for his home lake in Tulsa, Okla., there is perhaps no one more anxious to qualify than Christie. He’s in good shape to do it after finishes of 81st, seventh, ninth and 65th.
18. Michael Iaconelli: The buzz around Ike this year has centered on his Day 4 collapse at Guntersville and the surgery he had on a swollen calf shortly after that event. But he has quietly put together another solid year, finishing 30th, 12th, 68th and 54th. After four tournaments last year, Iaconelli was ranked 82nd in the AOY standings.
18. Michael Iaconelli: The buzz around Ike this year has centered on his Day 4 collapse at Guntersville and the surgery he had on a swollen calf shortly after that event. But he has quietly put together another solid year, finishing 30th, 12th, 68th and 54th. After four tournaments last year, Iaconelli was ranked 82nd in the AOY standings.
19. David Walker: After a disastrous 107th-place finish at the Sabine River, Walker came to Guntersville terrified that another bad finish would cost him a chance at his 11th Classic appearance. But he left Guntersville feeling downright giddy after a fourth-place finish, and he followed with a 21st and a 38th on the Western swing.
19. David Walker: After a disastrous 107th-place finish at the Sabine River, Walker came to Guntersville terrified that another bad finish would cost him a chance at his 11th Classic appearance. But he left Guntersville feeling downright giddy after a fourth-place finish, and he followed with a 21st and a 38th on the Western swing.
20. Keith Combs: With all of the 20-pound bags Combs has been catching, you just get the feeling he’s going to string four of them together and blow the doors off an Elite Series event before the year is over. For now, he’s in good shape for his fifth Classic appearance after finishes of 49th, fifth, 10th and 103 rd.
20. Keith Combs: With all of the 20-pound bags Combs has been catching, you just get the feeling he’s going to string four of them together and blow the doors off an Elite Series event before the year is over. For now, he’s in good shape for his fifth Classic appearance after finishes of 49th, fifth, 10th and 103 rd.
21. Jeff Kriet: In four tournaments, Kriet has placed 47th, 29th, 71st and 19th. That puts “The Squirrel” in good shape for his ninth Classic berth.
21. Jeff Kriet: In four tournaments, Kriet has placed 47th, 29th, 71st and 19th. That puts “The Squirrel” in good shape for his ninth Classic berth.
22. Randy Howell: Ironically, the only place Howell has missed a check this season was at Lake Guntersville – site of his emotional 2014 Classic victory. But he’s kept himself in Classic contention with finishes of 31st, 46th and 27th in the other three events.
22. Randy Howell: Ironically, the only place Howell has missed a check this season was at Lake Guntersville – site of his emotional 2014 Classic victory. But he’s kept himself in Classic contention with finishes of 31st, 46th and 27th in the other three events.
23. Greg Hackney: The reigning Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year started strong with a fifth-place finish on the Sabine River. He stumbled to 96th at Guntersville, but then rebounded with a 24th and a 43rd on the Western swing. During last year’s race, he didn’t finish lower than 38th place in any of the first four events.
23. Greg Hackney: The reigning Toyota Bassmaster Angler of the Year started strong with a fifth-place finish on the Sabine River. He stumbled to 96th at Guntersville, but then rebounded with a 24th and a 43rd on the Western swing. During last year’s race, he didn’t finish lower than 38th place in any of the first four events.
24. Dennis Tietje: Tietje opened the season with some cruel luck, finishing 54th and missing the Saturday cut by one spot in each of the first two tournaments. Tietje rebounded with a 36th and a 24th on the Western swing. He’s in position to make his first Classic appearance with a strong finish.
24. Dennis Tietje: Tietje opened the season with some cruel luck, finishing 54th and missing the Saturday cut by one spot in each of the first two tournaments. Tietje rebounded with a 36th and a 24th on the Western swing. He’s in position to make his first Classic appearance with a strong finish.
25. Gary Klein: Another hardcore veteran of the B.A.S.S. circuit, Klein has a chance for an amazing 31st appearance in the Bassmaster Classic. He missed a check with a 77th-place finish on the Sabine River, but he’s placed 49th, 32nd and 11th since then.
25. Gary Klein: Another hardcore veteran of the B.A.S.S. circuit, Klein has a chance for an amazing 31st appearance in the Bassmaster Classic. He missed a check with a 77th-place finish on the Sabine River, but he’s placed 49th, 32nd and 11th since then.
26. Chad Morgenthaler: Morgenthaler is one of only two anglers in the Elite Series field who has already secured his ticket to the 2016 Classic. He’s in by virtue of his January victory in the Bass Pro Shops Southern Open on Lake Toho. But he’s also put together a solid run on the Elite Series with finishes of 80th, 10th, 65th and 14th.
26. Chad Morgenthaler: Morgenthaler is one of only two anglers in the Elite Series field who has already secured his ticket to the 2016 Classic. He’s in by virtue of his January victory in the Bass Pro Shops Southern Open on Lake Toho. But he’s also put together a solid run on the Elite Series with finishes of 80th, 10th, 65th and 14th.
27. Bobby Lane: Since his second-place finish at the Classic in February, Lane has been making a strong bid to get back there for a ninth time with finishes of 28th, sixth and 35th in his last three Elite Series events.
27. Bobby Lane: Since his second-place finish at the Classic in February, Lane has been making a strong bid to get back there for a ninth time with finishes of 28th, sixth and 35th in his last three Elite Series events.
28. Edwin Evers: It’s happened quietly, because that’s how Evers does most everything. But he’s had a solid Elite Series run with finishes of 94th, 20th, 55th and third.
28. Edwin Evers: It’s happened quietly, because that’s how Evers does most everything. But he’s had a solid Elite Series run with finishes of 94th, 20th, 55th and third.
29. Brandon Lester: After a fourth-place finish on the Sabine River and a 27th-place showing at Guntersville, Lester was sitting pretty. But he’s faded a little since with finishes of 57th and 87th on the Western swing.
29. Brandon Lester: After a fourth-place finish on the Sabine River and a 27th-place showing at Guntersville, Lester was sitting pretty. But he’s faded a little since with finishes of 57th and 87th on the Western swing.
30. Matthew Herren: Herren has earned checks in three of the four events with finishes of 23rd, 23rd and 32nd. But a 112th-place finish at Sacramento has him sitting near the bottom of the list of anglers in line to make the Classic.
30. Matthew Herren: Herren has earned checks in three of the four events with finishes of 23rd, 23rd and 32nd. But a 112th-place finish at Sacramento has him sitting near the bottom of the list of anglers in line to make the Classic.
31. Ott DeFoe: The season started slowly for DeFoe with a 57th-place finish on the Sabine River and a 69th-place finish at Guntersville. But the Eastern angler used the Western swing to put himself back in contention with finishes of 37th and 17th.
31. Ott DeFoe: The season started slowly for DeFoe with a 57th-place finish on the Sabine River and a 69th-place finish at Guntersville. But the Eastern angler used the Western swing to put himself back in contention with finishes of 37th and 17th.
32. James Niggemeyer: It’s understandable if his thoughts are elsewhere after his hometown of Van, Tex., was hit by a tornado earlier this month. But when the Elite Series season resumes, Niggemeyer will be in contention for his fourth Classic appearance after finishes of 82nd, 41st, 44th and 15th.
32. James Niggemeyer: It’s understandable if his thoughts are elsewhere after his hometown of Van, Tex., was hit by a tornado earlier this month. But when the Elite Series season resumes, Niggemeyer will be in contention for his fourth Classic appearance after finishes of 82nd, 41st, 44th and 15th.
33. Kelly Jordon: Since finishing 79th on the Sabine River, Jordon has earned checks in three straight events with showings of 25th, 47th and 37th. He’s vying for his 10th Classic appearance.
33. Kelly Jordon: Since finishing 79th on the Sabine River, Jordon has earned checks in three straight events with showings of 25th, 47th and 37th. He’s vying for his 10th Classic appearance.
34. Jordan Lee: Lee would be in much better shape if it hadn’t been for his 99th-place finish at Havasu. But he’s still in a good spot to make his second Classic after finishing 22nd, 48th and 19th in the first three events.
34. Jordan Lee: Lee would be in much better shape if it hadn’t been for his 99th-place finish at Havasu. But he’s still in a good spot to make his second Classic after finishing 22nd, 48th and 19th in the first three events.
35. Alton Jones: After missing this year’s Classic, Jones is once again resting near the Classic bubble at the half-way point. The 2008 Classic winner has finishes of 92nd, 16th, 54th and 28th.
35. Alton Jones: After missing this year’s Classic, Jones is once again resting near the Classic bubble at the half-way point. The 2008 Classic winner has finishes of 92nd, 16th, 54th and 28th.
36. Marty Robinson: While many in the Top 35 used the Western swing to improve or solidify their spots in the standings, things went downhill for Robinson when he traveled West. After finishes of 18th and 22nd to start the season, Robinson placed 69th at Sacramento and 83rd at Lake Havasu.
36. Marty Robinson: While many in the Top 35 used the Western swing to improve or solidify their spots in the standings, things went downhill for Robinson when he traveled West. After finishes of 18th and 22nd to start the season, Robinson placed 69th at Sacramento and 83rd at Lake Havasu.
37. Boyd Duckett: The back side of the Classic bubble is occupied by Duckett, the 2007 Classic winner. Since placing 14th on the Sabine River, he’s made only one check, finishing 64th, 33rd and 81st.
37. Boyd Duckett: The back side of the Classic bubble is occupied by Duckett, the 2007 Classic winner. Since placing 14th on the Sabine River, he’s made only one check, finishing 64th, 33rd and 81st.
38. David Williams: Perhaps the last man in, depending on how the standings play out, Williams bolted into Classic contention with a dazzling performance at Lake Havasu. He went from 46th place on Day 2 of that event to seventh on Day 3 and ultimately finished fifth. Before Havasu, the Elite Series rookie had finished 16th, 91st and 81st.
38. David Williams: Perhaps the last man in, depending on how the standings play out, Williams bolted into Classic contention with a dazzling performance at Lake Havasu. He went from 46th place on Day 2 of that event to seventh on Day 3 and ultimately finished fifth. Before Havasu, the Elite Series rookie had finished 16th, 91st and 81st.
39. Micah Frazier: Another rookie in Classic contention, Frazier has bookended a pair of 78th-place finishes at Guntersville and Sacramento with a 12th-place finish on the Sabine River and a 26th-place finish at Havasu.
39. Micah Frazier: Another rookie in Classic contention, Frazier has bookended a pair of 78th-place finishes at Guntersville and Sacramento with a 12th-place finish on the Sabine River and a 26th-place finish at Havasu.
40. Davy Hite: The 1999 Classic winner opened with a 15th-place finish on the Sabine River and then fell behind in the race with an 89th and a 72nd. But he clawed his way back into contention with a 21st-place finish at Havasu.
40. Davy Hite: The 1999 Classic winner opened with a 15th-place finish on the Sabine River and then fell behind in the race with an 89th and a 72nd. But he clawed his way back into contention with a 21st-place finish at Havasu.
41. Keith Poche: Poche has had a roller-coaster ride of a season with an 11th-place finish on the Sabine River, an 85th-place finish at Guntersville, a 31st-place finish in Sacramento and a 70th on Lake Havasu. Making his second Classic may require him to be a little more consistent.
41. Keith Poche: Poche has had a roller-coaster ride of a season with an 11th-place finish on the Sabine River, an 85th-place finish at Guntersville, a 31st-place finish in Sacramento and a 70th on Lake Havasu. Making his second Classic may require him to be a little more consistent.
42. Mike McClelland: Since his second-place finish at the Sabine River that was aided by daring daily runs all the way to the other side of Galveston Bay, McClelland has placed 39th, 79th and 78th. The early Top Five showing won’t be enough to carry him if he doesn’t put together a good second-half run.
42. Mike McClelland: Since his second-place finish at the Sabine River that was aided by daring daily runs all the way to the other side of Galveston Bay, McClelland has placed 39th, 79th and 78th. The early Top Five showing won’t be enough to carry him if he doesn’t put together a good second-half run.
43. Gerald Swindle: A strong start with finishes of 24th and 26th has been somewhat canceled out by a pair of 74th-place finishes on the Western swing. But a strong finish could still lift Swindle to his 16th Classic appearance.
43. Gerald Swindle: A strong start with finishes of 24th and 26th has been somewhat canceled out by a pair of 74th-place finishes on the Western swing. But a strong finish could still lift Swindle to his 16th Classic appearance.
44. Mark Davis: Davis began the season still recovering from offseason shoulder surgery, but his finishes seem to be getting worse as his shoulder gets better. He opened with a 13th-place showing on the Sabine River, and he’s finished 72nd, 60th and 56th since then.
44. Mark Davis: Davis began the season still recovering from offseason shoulder surgery, but his finishes seem to be getting worse as his shoulder gets better. He opened with a 13th-place showing on the Sabine River, and he’s finished 72nd, 60th and 56th since then.
45. Jonathon VanDam: The highlight of VanDam’s season has been catching 18 pounds, 8 ounces on Day 3 at Lake Havasu to rocket from 52nd place into Sunday’s final 12. He’s the first angler to ever do that, and it could go a long way toward saving his season. Before the ninth-place finish at Havasu, he had finished 41st, 51st and a dismal 102nd in the first three events.
45. Jonathon VanDam: The highlight of VanDam’s season has been catching 18 pounds, 8 ounces on Day 3 at Lake Havasu to rocket from 52nd place into Sunday’s final 12. He’s the first angler to ever do that, and it could go a long way toward saving his season. Before the ninth-place finish at Havasu, he had finished 41st, 51st and a dismal 102nd in the first three events.
46. Terry Scroggins: The “Big Show” has made checks in half the events this season with a 26th-place showing on the Sabine River and a 23rd-place finish in Sacramento. But a 109th-place finish at Guntersville still plagues him in the AOY standings.
46. Terry Scroggins: The “Big Show” has made checks in half the events this season with a 26th-place showing on the Sabine River and a 23rd-place finish in Sacramento. But a 109th-place finish at Guntersville still plagues him in the AOY standings.
47. Hank Cherry: After a good start with a 29th at the Sabine and a 17th at Guntersville, Cherry took it on the chin out West. He placed 59th in Sacramento and 105th at Havasu.
47. Hank Cherry: After a good start with a 29th at the Sabine and a 17th at Guntersville, Cherry took it on the chin out West. He placed 59th in Sacramento and 105th at Havasu.
48. Ken Iyobe: Iyobe has quickly established himself as a rookie who knows how to catch big fish. But with finishes of 35th, 86th, 11th and 76th, he’ll need a little more consistency to earn his first Classic berth.
48. Ken Iyobe: Iyobe has quickly established himself as a rookie who knows how to catch big fish. But with finishes of 35th, 86th, 11th and 76th, he’ll need a little more consistency to earn his first Classic berth.
49. Tommy Biffle: Another of the 55-plus crowd on the Elite Series, Biffle has earned checks in two of the four events this season. He was in an excellent spot in the race for the Classic before stumbling to an 85th-place finish at Havasu.
49. Tommy Biffle: Another of the 55-plus crowd on the Elite Series, Biffle has earned checks in two of the four events this season. He was in an excellent spot in the race for the Classic before stumbling to an 85th-place finish at Havasu.
50. Brandon Palaniuk: BP was fading from Classic contention after finishes of 101st, 60th and 42nd in the first three events. But a 10th-place showing at Lake Havasu came at just the right time.
50. Brandon Palaniuk: BP was fading from Classic contention after finishes of 101st, 60th and 42nd in the first three events. But a 10th-place showing at Lake Havasu came at just the right time.
51. John Murray: Murray didn’t get the win he wanted at Lake Havasu. But a 12th-place finish on the lake he’s been fishing since 1978 kept him from falling too far out of the mix. Before Havasu, he had placed 63rd, 101st and 39th.
51. John Murray: Murray didn’t get the win he wanted at Lake Havasu. But a 12th-place finish on the lake he’s been fishing since 1978 kept him from falling too far out of the mix. Before Havasu, he had placed 63rd, 101st and 39th.
52. Kevin Short:
52. Kevin Short: “K-Pink” has earned three straight checks with finishes of 35th, 48th and 34th. But a season-opening 99th-place showing at the Sabine River is dragging him down.
53. Bradley Roy: Bidding for his first Classic appearance, Roy has turned in a 34th-place finish at Guntersville and a 20th-place showing at Havasu. But a 96th on the Sabine River and a 67th at Sacramento are weighing down his score.
53. Bradley Roy: Bidding for his first Classic appearance, Roy has turned in a 34th-place finish at Guntersville and a 20th-place showing at Havasu. But a 96th on the Sabine River and a 67th at Sacramento are weighing down his score.
54. Todd Faircloth: After a ninth-place finish at the Sabine River, Faircloth has faded with finishes of 57th, 84th and 68th.
54. Todd Faircloth: After a ninth-place finish at the Sabine River, Faircloth has faded with finishes of 57th, 84th and 68th.
55. Tim Horton: Horton has had his moments on the trail this season, particularly an eighth-place finish at Sacramento. But if he’s to qualify for his 12th Classic, he’ll need to do better than the 67th-, 42nd- and 108th-place finishes he turned in for the other three events.
55. Tim Horton: Horton has had his moments on the trail this season, particularly an eighth-place finish at Sacramento. But if he’s to qualify for his 12th Classic, he’ll need to do better than the 67th-, 42nd- and 108th-place finishes he turned in for the other three events.
56. Mark Menendez: Menendez’s emotional return to the Elite Series has been mostly good with finishes of 25th, 47th and 45th in the first three events. But he stumbled to 109th place at Havasu.
56. Mark Menendez: Menendez’s emotional return to the Elite Series has been mostly good with finishes of 25th, 47th and 45th in the first three events. But he stumbled to 109th place at Havasu.
57. Brandon Coulter: Coulter opened his rookie season with finishes of 21st, 65th and 35th. If he had just made the Top 52 Saturday cut at Lake Havasu, he might be feeling a lot better about his Classic chances. But a finish of 111th in Arizona has him sitting about 20 spots out of the Classic lineup with half the season gone.
57. Brandon Coulter: Coulter opened his rookie season with finishes of 21st, 65th and 35th. If he had just made the Top 52 Saturday cut at Lake Havasu, he might be feeling a lot better about his Classic chances. But a finish of 111th in Arizona has him sitting about 20 spots out of the Classic lineup with half the season gone.
58. Brian Snowden: Snowden bettered himself with finishes of 38th and 41st on the Western swing. But he still has work to do to overcome finishes of 69th and 76th in the first two events.
58. Brian Snowden: Snowden bettered himself with finishes of 38th and 41st on the Western swing. But he still has work to do to overcome finishes of 69th and 76th in the first two events.
59. James Elam: The 29-year-old Elam had a great middle portion of the first half with a 44th-place finish on Guntersville and a 20th-place showing in Sacramento. But a 70th-place finish on the Sabine River and a 96th-place finish at Havasu mean he has catching up to do if he hopes to make his first Classic in his third Elite Series season.
59. James Elam: The 29-year-old Elam had a great middle portion of the first half with a 44th-place finish on Guntersville and a 20th-place showing in Sacramento. But a 70th-place finish on the Sabine River and a 96th-place finish at Havasu mean he has catching up to do if he hopes to make his first Classic in his third Elite Series season.
60. Russ Lane: Lane has earned checks with a 32nd-place finish on the Sabine River and a 50th-place showing in Sacramento. But finishes of 90th and 61st in the other two events didn’t help.
60. Russ Lane: Lane has earned checks with a 32nd-place finish on the Sabine River and a 50th-place showing in Sacramento. But finishes of 90th and 61st in the other two events didn’t help.
61. Brent Chapman: The 2012 Angler of the Year has had two good tournaments, with a 37th-place finish on the Sabine River and a 26th-place showing in Sacramento. But finishes of 107th and 71st in the other two events have made for an up-and-down season.
61. Brent Chapman: The 2012 Angler of the Year has had two good tournaments, with a 37th-place finish on the Sabine River and a 26th-place showing in Sacramento. But finishes of 107th and 71st in the other two events have made for an up-and-down season.
62. Jared Lintner: Lintner got off to a nasty start with finishes of 98th, 53rd and 70th in the first three events. But the West Coast native might have salvaged his chances for a second-half Classic run with a 16th-place showing at Lake Havasu.
62. Jared Lintner: Lintner got off to a nasty start with finishes of 98th, 53rd and 70th in the first three events. But the West Coast native might have salvaged his chances for a second-half Classic run with a 16th-place showing at Lake Havasu.
63. Scott Rook: Rook certainly got the start he wanted, finishing eighth on the Sabine River. But it’s been all downhill since then with finishes of 74th, 86th and 73rd.
63. Scott Rook: Rook certainly got the start he wanted, finishing eighth on the Sabine River. But it’s been all downhill since then with finishes of 74th, 86th and 73rd.
64. Josh Bertrand: In a bid for his second career Classic appearance, Bertrand has earned checks for a 37th-place finish at Guntersville and a 30th-place showing at Havasu. But finishing 85th and 91st in the other two events have left him catch-up mode for the second half.
64. Josh Bertrand: In a bid for his second career Classic appearance, Bertrand has earned checks for a 37th-place finish at Guntersville and a 30th-place showing at Havasu. But finishing 85th and 91st in the other two events have left him catch-up mode for the second half.
66. Casey Ashley: Besides Chad Morgenthaler, Ashley is the only other angler in the Elite Series field who is certain to be part of the 2016 Classic. He’s automatically in after winning this year’s Classic on Lake Hartwell. It might be a good thing he gets the exemption. He’s had two finishes of 92nd or worse this year, along with a 44th-place showing at the Sabine River and a nice rebound showing of seventh place at Lake Havasu.
66. Casey Ashley: Besides Chad Morgenthaler, Ashley is the only other angler in the Elite Series field who is certain to be part of the 2016 Classic. He’s automatically in after winning this year’s Classic on Lake Hartwell. It might be a good thing he gets the exemption. He’s had two finishes of 92nd or worse this year, along with a 44th-place showing at the Sabine River and a nice rebound showing of seventh place at Lake Havasu.
65. Cliff Pace: The 2013 Classic winner known by Elite Series tournament emcee Dave Mercer as “Game Face Cliff Pace” started strong with a 27th-place showing on the Sabine. But he’s limped to finishes of 61st, 80th and 75th since then.
65. Cliff Pace: The 2013 Classic winner known by Elite Series tournament emcee Dave Mercer as “Game Face Cliff Pace” started strong with a 27th-place showing on the Sabine. But he’s limped to finishes of 61st, 80th and 75th since then.
67. Koby Kreiger: The only Elite Series rookie who’s actually been to the Classic before – he qualified in 2003 through the opens – Krieger has earned one check this year. Besides that 25th-place finish in Sacramento, he’s finished 55th, 77th and 89th.
67. Koby Kreiger: The only Elite Series rookie who’s actually been to the Classic before – he qualified in 2003 through the opens – Krieger has earned one check this year. Besides that 25th-place finish in Sacramento, he’s finished 55th, 77th and 89th.
68. Kelley Jaye: Jaye was one of several anglers who lost numerous good fish during the Elite Series event on Lake Guntersville. He still finished 36th in that event and notched a 27th-place showing at Sacramento. But landing a few more of those big ones at Guntersville would have done more to help him overcome a 103rd-place stumble at the Sabine River and an 82nd-place showing at Havasu.
68. Kelley Jaye: Jaye was one of several anglers who lost numerous good fish during the Elite Series event on Lake Guntersville. He still finished 36th in that event and notched a 27th-place showing at Sacramento. But landing a few more of those big ones at Guntersville would have done more to help him overcome a 103rd-place stumble at the Sabine River and an 82nd-place showing at Havasu.
69. Derek Remitz: Speaking of losing big fish at Guntersville, Remitz might have had the most painful near-miss of all. He lost a 5-pound-plus fish during the last hour that he believed might have put him over the top in an event where he ultimately placed third. Things have been tough for him since then, with finishes of 67th, 106th and 100th.
69. Derek Remitz: Speaking of losing big fish at Guntersville, Remitz might have had the most painful near-miss of all. He lost a 5-pound-plus fish during the last hour that he believed might have put him over the top in an event where he ultimately placed third. Things have been tough for him since then, with finishes of 67th, 106th and 100th.
70. Stephen Browning: Browning is still scrambling to overcome a 112th-place finish at Guntersville in the second event of the season. He’s finished 38th, 85th and 22nd in the other three events.
70. Stephen Browning: Browning is still scrambling to overcome a 112th-place finish at Guntersville in the second event of the season. He’s finished 38th, 85th and 22nd in the other three events.
71. Takahiro Omori: Off the top of your head, it seems like the 2004 Classic winner has had a great season. But he’s really just had a few great moments in an otherwise off-year. Omori finished third at the Classic in February, which doesn’t count in the AOY standings, and then placed fourth in the Elite Series event at Havasu. In between, he finished 75th on the Sabine River, 68th at Guntersville and 107th at Sacramento.
71. Takahiro Omori: Off the top of your head, it seems like the 2004 Classic winner has had a great season. But he’s really just had a few great moments in an otherwise off-year. Omori finished third at the Classic in February, which doesn’t count in the AOY standings, and then placed fourth in the Elite Series event at Havasu. In between, he finished 75th on the Sabine River, 68th at Guntersville and 107th at Sacramento.
72. Kurt Dove: Dove barely made the Saturday cut to draw a check in 53rd place at the Sabine River. Since then, he’s been stuck in the 60s, placing 67th, 63rd and 67th.
72. Kurt Dove: Dove barely made the Saturday cut to draw a check in 53rd place at the Sabine River. Since then, he’s been stuck in the 60s, placing 67th, 63rd and 67th.
73. Matt Lee: Lee has been solid inside his home state of Alabama, finishing 18th in the Elite Series event at Lake Guntersville and 27th in the Bass Pro Shops Southern Open on the Alabama River (which, of course, didn’t count toward the AOY standings). But when he’s ventured outside his state, he’s finished 56th, 77th and 101st.
73. Matt Lee: Lee has been solid inside his home state of Alabama, finishing 18th in the Elite Series event at Lake Guntersville and 27th in the Bass Pro Shops Southern Open on the Alabama River (which, of course, didn’t count toward the AOY standings). But when he’s ventured outside his state, he’s finished 56th, 77th and 101st.
74. Chad Pipkens: If the best hair in the business is going back to the Classic for a second time, the man under it has some catching up to do. He’s finished 110th, 59th, 41st and 52nd in four events this year.
74. Chad Pipkens: If the best hair in the business is going back to the Classic for a second time, the man under it has some catching up to do. He’s finished 110th, 59th, 41st and 52nd in four events this year.
75. Billy McCaghren: Besides an 18th-place finish in Sacramento, things have been tough for McCaghren. In a bid for his second Classic berth, the Arkansas angler has finished 71st, 70th and 98th in the three other events.
75. Billy McCaghren: Besides an 18th-place finish in Sacramento, things have been tough for McCaghren. In a bid for his second Classic berth, the Arkansas angler has finished 71st, 70th and 98th in the three other events.
76. Mike Kernan: Kernan had an eventful season-opener with a disqualification that was eventually overturned. But since the 12th-place finish that nearly wasn’t, he’s slipped with a 95th at Guntersville, a 101st at Sacramento and a respectable 50th at Havasu.
76. Mike Kernan: Kernan had an eventful season-opener with a disqualification that was eventually overturned. But since the 12th-place finish that nearly wasn’t, he’s slipped with a 95th at Guntersville, a 101st at Sacramento and a respectable 50th at Havasu.
77. Cliff Prince: Prince has earned checks at the last two events with a 30th and a 36th. But he’s still scrambling overcome a 109th-place finish at Sabine and a 91st-place finish at Guntersville.
77. Cliff Prince: Prince has earned checks at the last two events with a 30th and a 36th. But he’s still scrambling overcome a 109th-place finish at Sabine and a 91st-place finish at Guntersville.
78. Seth Feider: The 30-year-old rookie righted his ship slightly on the Western swing with a 52nd-place finish at Sacramento and a 40th at Havasu. But he’s still being weighed down by a 73rd-place finish at the Sabine River and a 94th at Guntersville.
78. Seth Feider: The 30-year-old rookie righted his ship slightly on the Western swing with a 52nd-place finish at Sacramento and a 40th at Havasu. But he’s still being weighed down by a 73rd-place finish at the Sabine River and a 94th at Guntersville.
79. Stephen Kennedy: After opening with a 91st-place finish on the Sabine River and a surprising 102nd-place stumble in his home state at Guntersville, Kennedy has rebounded with finishes of 49th and 18th in the last two events. But he still has work to do to make his eighth Classic.
79. Stephen Kennedy: After opening with a 91st-place finish on the Sabine River and a surprising 102nd-place stumble in his home state at Guntersville, Kennedy has rebounded with finishes of 49th and 18th in the last two events. But he still has work to do to make his eighth Classic.
80. Randy Allen: Allen may still have a hard time qualifying for his first Classic after finishes of 89th, 71st and 86th in three of the four events. But at least he got the monkey off his back with his first career Elite Series check for a 14th-place finish at Sacramento. Allen had fished 13 career Elite Series events prior to Sacramento without making the cut to get paid.
80. Randy Allen: Allen may still have a hard time qualifying for his first Classic after finishes of 89th, 71st and 86th in three of the four events. But at least he got the monkey off his back with his first career Elite Series check for a 14th-place finish at Sacramento. Allen had fished 13 career Elite Series events prior to Sacramento without making the cut to get paid.
81. Jason Williamson: Williamson finished 15th at Guntersville, but his other news clippings this season haven’t been as pleasant. He was 104th on the Sabine, 56th at Sacramento and 90th at Havasu.
81. Jason Williamson: Williamson finished 15th at Guntersville, but his other news clippings this season haven’t been as pleasant. He was 104th on the Sabine, 56th at Sacramento and 90th at Havasu.
82. Brett Hite: Hite was in decent shape after finishing 88th and 13th in the first two events. But with many expecting him to make a major jump on his home turf during the Western swing, he stumbled to finishes of 61st at Sacramento and a perplexing 107th at Havasu in his home state of Arizona.
82. Brett Hite: Hite was in decent shape after finishing 88th and 13th in the first two events. But with many expecting him to make a major jump on his home turf during the Western swing, he stumbled to finishes of 61st at Sacramento and a perplexing 107th at Havasu in his home state of Arizona.
83. Nate Wellman: The big man’s high point came when he finished 31st at Guntersville. He’s been 65th or below everywhere else.
83. Nate Wellman: The big man’s high point came when he finished 31st at Guntersville. He’s been 65th or below everywhere else.
84. Carl Jocumsen: The Australian rookie had one magic moment when he kept his home country up four straight nights following him on Bassmaster.com as he finished sixth at Guntersville. But his other finishes have been 105th, 103rd and 57th.
84. Carl Jocumsen: The Australian rookie had one magic moment when he kept his home country up four straight nights following him on Bassmaster.com as he finished sixth at Guntersville. But his other finishes have been 105th, 103rd and 57th.
85. Cliff Crochet: The “Cajun Baby” entered the season with seven Top 10 B.A.S.S. finishes to his credit. But he’s finished 45th, 75th, 53rd and 94th in four Elite Series events this year.
85. Cliff Crochet: The “Cajun Baby” entered the season with seven Top 10 B.A.S.S. finishes to his credit. But he’s finished 45th, 75th, 53rd and 94th in four Elite Series events this year.
86. David Mullins: Mullins has earned two checks with finishes of 52nd at Guntersville and 49th at Havasu. But he finished 83rd or below in the two other events.
86. David Mullins: Mullins has earned two checks with finishes of 52nd at Guntersville and 49th at Havasu. But he finished 83rd or below in the two other events.
87. J. Todd Tucker: One check for a 46th-place finish at Guntersville has been the only real highlight in a season that has also included two 62nd places and a 106th.
87. J. Todd Tucker: One check for a 46th-place finish at Guntersville has been the only real highlight in a season that has also included two 62nd places and a 106th.
88. Randall Tharp: No one seems more confused by his troubles this season than Tharp himself, who says he can’t ever remember missing more than two checks in a row before 2015. He missed three in a row to start the Elite Series season before finally placing 29th at Havasu.
88. Randall Tharp: No one seems more confused by his troubles this season than Tharp himself, who says he can’t ever remember missing more than two checks in a row before 2015. He missed three in a row to start the Elite Series season before finally placing 29th at Havasu.
89. Casey Scanlon: A pair of 97th-place finishes at Guntersville and Sacramento have made Scanlon a long-shot for his second Classic berth.
89. Casey Scanlon: A pair of 97th-place finishes at Guntersville and Sacramento have made Scanlon a long-shot for his second Classic berth.
90. Kotaro Kiriyama: Kiriyama has six Classic appearances on his resume. But he hasn’t been since 2010, and it’s not looking likely this year after first-half finishes of 51st, 55th, 75th and 97th.
90. Kotaro Kiriyama: Kiriyama has six Classic appearances on his resume. But he hasn’t been since 2010, and it’s not looking likely this year after first-half finishes of 51st, 55th, 75th and 97th.
91. Fletcher Shryock: Shryock has been in the vicinity of a check three times this year with finishes of 60th, 58th and 59th. But his failure to make the cut in those three events, combined with a 104th-place finish at Guntersville, have him on the outside looking in.
91. Fletcher Shryock: Shryock has been in the vicinity of a check three times this year with finishes of 60th, 58th and 59th. But his failure to make the cut in those three events, combined with a 104th-place finish at Guntersville, have him on the outside looking in.
92. Morizo Shimizu: The big mommas have been too few and far between in finishes of 66th, 83rd, 96th and 33rd.
92. Morizo Shimizu: The big mommas have been too few and far between in finishes of 66th, 83rd, 96th and 33rd.
93. Matt Reed: Besides a respectable 43rd-place finish at Guntersville, Reed has placed 78th, 108th and 62nd in three other events.
93. Matt Reed: Besides a respectable 43rd-place finish at Guntersville, Reed has placed 78th, 108th and 62nd in three other events.
94. Britt Myers: After finishes of 76th, 108th, 43rd and 69th, Myers’ first Classic berth will be tough to achieve this year.
94. Britt Myers: After finishes of 76th, 108th, 43rd and 69th, Myers’ first Classic berth will be tough to achieve this year.
95. Byron Velvick: You have to feel for Velvick. After giving Skeet Reese lure advice on Guntersville and then finishing second to him in the standings, Karma rewarded Velvick with a broken back at Sacramento. While he should definitely receive a nod for toughness, he’s in a tough spot in the AOY standings after finishes of 110th, second, 104th and 88th.
95. Byron Velvick: You have to feel for Velvick. After giving Skeet Reese lure advice on Guntersville and then finishing second to him in the standings, Karma rewarded Velvick with a broken back at Sacramento. While he should definitely receive a nod for toughness, he’s in a tough spot in the AOY standings after finishes of 110th, second, 104th and 88th.
96. Brandon Card: Card hasn’t had a terrible season – just two REALLY bad tournaments. He opened with a 39th-place finish at the Sabine River and recently turned in a 51st-place showing at Havasu. But a 103rd at Guntersville and a 105th at Sacramento have overshadowed his two Saturday appearances.
96. Brandon Card: Card hasn’t had a terrible season – just two REALLY bad tournaments. He opened with a 39th-place finish at the Sabine River and recently turned in a 51st-place showing at Havasu. But a 103rd at Guntersville and a 105th at Sacramento have overshadowed his two Saturday appearances.
97. Jared Miller: Miller started the season by finishing 74th, 106th and 93rd, but he showed signs of life with a 25th-place finish on Havasu.
97. Jared Miller: Miller started the season by finishing 74th, 106th and 93rd, but he showed signs of life with a 25th-place finish on Havasu.
98. Andy Montgomery: His 66th-place finish at Havasu was his best of the season so far. That pretty much says it all.
98. Andy Montgomery: His 66th-place finish at Havasu was his best of the season so far. That pretty much says it all.
99. Paul Mueller: Mueller earned his first check of the season with a 48th-place finish at Havasu. Before that, he finished 90th, 56th and 109th in three events to start the season.
99. Paul Mueller: Mueller earned his first check of the season with a 48th-place finish at Havasu. Before that, he finished 90th, 56th and 109th in three events to start the season.
100. David Smith: After earning a check for a 36th-place finish at the Sabine River, Smith fell off the map with back-to-back 110th-place showings.
100. David Smith: After earning a check for a 36th-place finish at the Sabine River, Smith fell off the map with back-to-back 110th-place showings.
101. Kevin Hawk: Hawk has struggled in his third season on the Elite Series with finishes of 83rd, 93rd, 64th and 63 rd.
101. Kevin Hawk: Hawk has struggled in his third season on the Elite Series with finishes of 83rd, 93rd, 64th and 63 rd.
102. Paul Elias: Elias is one of several big-name veterans languishing near the bottom of the AOY standings after finishes of 50th, 80th, 82nd and 112th. He qualified for this year’s Classic on Lake Hartwell after a three-year absence, but he might have a hard time making it two in a row.
102. Paul Elias: Elias is one of several big-name veterans languishing near the bottom of the AOY standings after finishes of 50th, 80th, 82nd and 112th. He qualified for this year’s Classic on Lake Hartwell after a three-year absence, but he might have a hard time making it two in a row.
103. Kenyon Hill: Hill made the cut and finished in 51st at Sacramento, but the rest of his season has been tough with finishes of 84th, 100th and 79th.
103. Kenyon Hill: Hill made the cut and finished in 51st at Sacramento, but the rest of his season has been tough with finishes of 84th, 100th and 79th.
104. Yusuke Miyazaki: He barely missed the cut on Havasu, finishing 53rd. But his other three finishes have been 73rd or below.
104. Yusuke Miyazaki: He barely missed the cut on Havasu, finishing 53rd. But his other three finishes have been 73rd or below.
105. Charlie Hartley: A bid for a second Classic appearance hasn’t gone well for Hartley, with three finishes of 87th or lower.
105. Charlie Hartley: A bid for a second Classic appearance hasn’t gone well for Hartley, with three finishes of 87th or lower.
106. Fred Roumbanis: “Boom-Boom” hit a season high with a 60th-place finish at Havasu. Before that, he had placed 97th, 82nd and 95th.
106. Fred Roumbanis: “Boom-Boom” hit a season high with a 60th-place finish at Havasu. Before that, he had placed 97th, 82nd and 95th.
107. Zell Rowland: Speaking of big names near the bottom of the standings, the topwater king has finished 106th, 62nd, 100th and 77th this season.
107. Zell Rowland: Speaking of big names near the bottom of the standings, the topwater king has finished 106th, 62nd, 100th and 77th this season.
108. Rick Clunn: Speaking of the absolute biggest name near the bottom of the standings, Clunn’s only real shining moment this season was the 8-8 largemouth he caught at Lake Guntersville. He’s finished 72nd, 88th, 90th and 95th.
108. Rick Clunn: Speaking of the absolute biggest name near the bottom of the standings, Clunn’s only real shining moment this season was the 8-8 largemouth he caught at Lake Guntersville. He’s finished 72nd, 88th, 90th and 95th.
109. Scott Ashmore: Finishes of 113th at the Sabine River and 111th at Sacramento have been the low points, while Ashmore’s best finish was a 79th-place showing at Guntersville.
109. Scott Ashmore: Finishes of 113th at the Sabine River and 111th at Sacramento have been the low points, while Ashmore’s best finish was a 79th-place showing at Guntersville.
110. Kevin Ledoux: An 87th-place finish at Guntersville has been Ledoux’s high-water mark for the year.
110. Kevin Ledoux: An 87th-place finish at Guntersville has been Ledoux’s high-water mark for the year.
111. Joseph Sancho: Despite finishing no higher than 93rd in four events, Sancho still has the best beard in the field. No offense, Ike.
111. Joseph Sancho: Despite finishing no higher than 93rd in four events, Sancho still has the best beard in the field. No offense, Ike.
112. Stephen Longobardi: The 28-year-old Connecticut angler has had a tough rookie season, finishing 108th, 99th, 89th and 110th in his first four events against the best in the world. But hopefully, he’ll look at the legendary anglers just above him in the standings and realize it can happen to anyone.
112. Stephen Longobardi: The 28-year-old Connecticut angler has had a tough rookie season, finishing 108th, 99th, 89th and 110th in his first four events against the best in the world. But hopefully, he’ll look at the legendary anglers just above him in the standings and realize it can happen to anyone.