Christmas with the Elites

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We surveyed the 2019 Bassmaster Elite anglers on the best gift they’ve ever received at Christmas, then asked what they’re wishing for this year. The best gift responses were split between an important or meaningful piece of outdoor equipment they were given, while others said a spouse or child(ren) was the best thing. Of course, the overwhelming wish was a blue trophy. Following are what many said, some complete with photos. <p> <em>All captions: Mike Suchan</em>
We surveyed the 2019 Bassmaster Elite anglers on the best gift they’ve ever received at Christmas, then asked what they’re wishing for this year. The best gift responses were split between an important or meaningful piece of outdoor equipment they were given, while others said a spouse or child(ren) was the best thing. Of course, the overwhelming wish was a blue trophy. Following are what many said, some complete with photos.

All captions: Mike Suchan

Let’s start with the ghost of Christmas past, err Ghostbusters of Christmas past. Brandon Card talks about this memorable gift. “My brother and I loved the Ghostbusters when we were little! We got these outfits one Christmas and wore them all the time. For months, we caught so many ghosts with our new gear! Lol.” His wish is rather practical. “I want a truck camper so my wife and I could start camping on tour!!”
Let’s start with the ghost of Christmas past, err Ghostbusters of Christmas past. Brandon Card talks about this memorable gift. “My brother and I loved the Ghostbusters when we were little! We got these outfits one Christmas and wore them all the time. For months, we caught so many ghosts with our new gear! Lol.” His wish is rather practical. “I want a truck camper so my wife and I could start camping on tour!!”
Speaking of Christmases long past, Bernie Schultz still has a cherished gift. He mentioned his first rod and reel, but this particular gift is really cool to see -- it’s older than most all the Elites.
Speaking of Christmases long past, Bernie Schultz still has a cherished gift. He mentioned his first rod and reel, but this particular gift is really cool to see — it’s older than most all the Elites.
“It's a Marx Ho Train Set given to me by my parents on Christmas when I was about 6 years old. That would have been 1960-61. It’s my most memorable gift from childhood, and it still works. Hopefully, some day, one of my two sons will want it for their kid.” You think he keeps his tackle in order, too?
“It’s a Marx Ho Train Set given to me by my parents on Christmas when I was about 6 years old. That would have been 1960-61. It’s my most memorable gift from childhood, and it still works. Hopefully, some day, one of my two sons will want it for their kid.” You think he keeps his tackle in order, too?
Steve Kennedy also takes us way back, so far he’s not sure of the year -- he thought it was 1974. “Our own tackleboxes and rods and reels. I was 5 1/2, my brother Travis was 4 (right). When we went to grandparents’ house later Christmas day, we caught creek chubs in their neighbor’s yard,” he said, adding what gifts he’s looking forward to. “Lowrance HDS 12Live, and the 2019 BassCat -- it’s my new tacklebox.”
Steve Kennedy also takes us way back, so far he’s not sure of the year — he thought it was 1974. “Our own tackleboxes and rods and reels. I was 5 1/2, my brother Travis was 4 (right). When we went to grandparents’ house later Christmas day, we caught creek chubs in their neighbor’s yard,” he said, adding what gifts he’s looking forward to. “Lowrance HDS 12Live, and the 2019 BassCat — it’s my new tacklebox.”
Jeff Gustafson also sent in proof of his most special gift. “This is a photo of my Dad and I at the 1993 Kenora Bass International tournament on Lake of the Woods. It was my first tournament and the entry was a Christmas present that year from my parents.” Looks like they did pretty well, too. His wish: “I'm going moose hunting in December, so I would like to see a great big bull as an early Christmas present.”
Jeff Gustafson also sent in proof of his most special gift. “This is a photo of my Dad and I at the 1993 Kenora Bass International tournament on Lake of the Woods. It was my first tournament and the entry was a Christmas present that year from my parents.” Looks like they did pretty well, too. His wish: “I’m going moose hunting in December, so I would like to see a great big bull as an early Christmas present.”
Bill Lowen and his family, wife Jennifer and children, Nevaeh and Fischer, send season’s greetings to all. He said he’s “always thankful for everything I receive. I’m truly blessed with everything I have in life I would honestly rather give than receive.”
Bill Lowen and his family, wife Jennifer and children, Nevaeh and Fischer, send season’s greetings to all. He said he’s “always thankful for everything I receive. I’m truly blessed with everything I have in life I would honestly rather give than receive.”
Chad Pipkens, with wife Melanie, said Christmas was more about the family experience for him. “For whatever reason, I can’t remember any one present that sticks out more than another! I remembered how excited and pumped up I was for every Christmas vacation! We would get up every Christmas morning and open presents and then we would head to Bay City to spend a few days with our aunts and uncles and cousins. This was an absolute blast as we would snowmobile and do all sorts of fun stuff and stay up late! These was my best Christmas memories for sure! Sorry I guess I didn’t care too much about the presents!”
Chad Pipkens, with wife Melanie, said Christmas was more about the family experience for him. “For whatever reason, I can’t remember any one present that sticks out more than another! I remembered how excited and pumped up I was for every Christmas vacation! We would get up every Christmas morning and open presents and then we would head to Bay City to spend a few days with our aunts and uncles and cousins. This was an absolute blast as we would snowmobile and do all sorts of fun stuff and stay up late! These was my best Christmas memories for sure! Sorry I guess I didn’t care too much about the presents!”
And the experiences continue, but no white Christmas for the Pipkens on their trip to the Bahamas, unless it was sand. He won’t be able to unwrap his wish this Dec. 25, and it requires some work. “All I want for Christmas is one of those blue Elite Series trophies in 2019!”
And the experiences continue, but no white Christmas for the Pipkens on their trip to the Bahamas, unless it was sand. He won’t be able to unwrap his wish this Dec. 25, and it requires some work. “All I want for Christmas is one of those blue Elite Series trophies in 2019!”
Legendary angler Rick Clunn feels the same way, in fact, he said the Clunns don’t exchange gifts -- they make memories. “We try to go on an adventure together. I cannot remember a single Christmas gift I have been given, but I can recall fishing and camping trips and other outdoor adventures back to the age of 6.”
Legendary angler Rick Clunn feels the same way, in fact, he said the Clunns don’t exchange gifts — they make memories. “We try to go on an adventure together. I cannot remember a single Christmas gift I have been given, but I can recall fishing and camping trips and other outdoor adventures back to the age of 6.”
Clunn did forward some shots, however. “I attached our last Christmas adventure pictures to New Mexico.” Say, don’t see you out there skiing Rick.
Clunn did forward some shots, however. “I attached our last Christmas adventure pictures to New Mexico.” Say, don’t see you out there skiing Rick.
Another Classic champ, Jay Yelas, finds getting away from any white stuff in Lincoln City, Ore., is a great gift, especially if it’s a trip to Hawaii. Here’s last year’s shot with wife, Jill, and daughters Hannah and Bethany. And he’s getting his wish with another Christmas vacation there this year.
Another Classic champ, Jay Yelas, finds getting away from any white stuff in Lincoln City, Ore., is a great gift, especially if it’s a trip to Hawaii. Here’s last year’s shot with wife, Jill, and daughters Hannah and Bethany. And he’s getting his wish with another Christmas vacation there this year.
Kelley Jaye’s first shotgun, a Beretta 12-gauge, he received when he was 13 tops his best gift, but now he’s more into giving. “I never ask or want for anything personal. All I ever want is for my wife (Cheryl) and kids (Kelsey, Katlyn and Devin) to be happy and get whatever they want.”
Kelley Jaye’s first shotgun, a Beretta 12-gauge, he received when he was 13 tops his best gift, but now he’s more into giving. “I never ask or want for anything personal. All I ever want is for my wife (Cheryl) and kids (Kelsey, Katlyn and Devin) to be happy and get whatever they want.”
Ditto for Ray Hanselman, a fishing guide on Lake Amistad who also guides hunting adventures. He reported his best gift was a deer rifle in his youth, and his wish: “I want my kids to be excited and grateful for their gifts. Also that they understand the true meaning of Christmas.”
Ditto for Ray Hanselman, a fishing guide on Lake Amistad who also guides hunting adventures. He reported his best gift was a deer rifle in his youth, and his wish: “I want my kids to be excited and grateful for their gifts. Also that they understand the true meaning of Christmas.”
Let’s go in the way back machine for Brian Snowden’s favorite gift, “my Evel Knievel Chopper.” How’s that for nostalgia? His wish sends us back to the future -- a Garmin Panoptix LiveScope System.
Let’s go in the way back machine for Brian Snowden’s favorite gift, “my Evel Knievel Chopper.” How’s that for nostalgia? His wish sends us back to the future — a Garmin Panoptix LiveScope System.
Speaking of cool rides, Clent Davis tells of his glory day turned tragic. “It was a little Suzuki four-wheeler. My first one. I was probably 8 years old. Within 10 minutes of being on it, I drove it off in the pond and sunk it.” Ouch. Along with his wife, Ashley, the reigning Forrest Wood Cup winner has a simple wish. “For our 3-year-old (Kayt) to be happy with what Santa brings her!”
Speaking of cool rides, Clent Davis tells of his glory day turned tragic. “It was a little Suzuki four-wheeler. My first one. I was probably 8 years old. Within 10 minutes of being on it, I drove it off in the pond and sunk it.” Ouch. Along with his wife, Ashley, the reigning Forrest Wood Cup winner has a simple wish. “For our 3-year-old (Kayt) to be happy with what Santa brings her!”
Caleb Sumrall said the greatest gift he’s ever received is his family, which includes wife, Jacie, daughter, Clélie, 7, and son, Axel, 1, and his wish is to make their Christmas wishes come true.
Caleb Sumrall said the greatest gift he’s ever received is his family, which includes wife, Jacie, daughter, Clélie, 7, and son, Axel, 1, and his wish is to make their Christmas wishes come true.
Returning Elite Carl Jocumsen said his best gift came last year, when he was able to fly home to Australia and spend the holidays with family. His wish this year is, “to spend time with Kayla, her family and Roo; A Millerod Swimsanity Swimbait Rod; and Roman Made Negotiator Swimbait!”
Returning Elite Carl Jocumsen said his best gift came last year, when he was able to fly home to Australia and spend the holidays with family. His wish this year is, “to spend time with Kayla, her family and Roo; A Millerod Swimsanity Swimbait Rod; and Roman Made Negotiator Swimbait!”
“I want the best for everyone and their families ... regardless of which tour they fish,” Skylar Hamilton, channeling his best Linus, said. “I want people to stop being mean on Instagram. I want to go Christmas caroling with Seth Feider.” That could be the true meaning of Christmas, or at least get you in the spirit. “I had many great gifts growing up,” he continued. “Looking back I used to hate getting socks and underwear, but now that I’m older those are two things I really appreciate.”
“I want the best for everyone and their families … regardless of which tour they fish,” Skylar Hamilton, channeling his best Linus, said. “I want people to stop being mean on Instagram. I want to go Christmas caroling with Seth Feider.” That could be the true meaning of Christmas, or at least get you in the spirit. “I had many great gifts growing up,” he continued. “Looking back I used to hate getting socks and underwear, but now that I’m older those are two things I really appreciate.”
A shotgun at 13 years old was duck crazy Seth Feider’s best gift, and while he said he couldn’t think of anything he really needed now, how about considering a night caroling with Skylar? I’d give you guys a round of applause and a hot cup of cocoa. (Oh, Dayton posted this photo of their llama Christmas attire, writing “Yes, this happened and made me sooooo happy. Fa la la la llama!”
A shotgun at 13 years old was duck crazy Seth Feider’s best gift, and while he said he couldn’t think of anything he really needed now, how about considering a night caroling with Skylar? I’d give you guys a round of applause and a hot cup of cocoa. (Oh, Dayton posted this photo of their llama Christmas attire, writing “Yes, this happened and made me sooooo happy. Fa la la la llama!”
Chris Groh said he was 8 when he received his best gift, a G.I. Joe aircraft carrier. His wish for a title sponsor came early, he reported in his latest blog. (And it’d be cool to take him along caroling, too.)
Chris Groh said he was 8 when he received his best gift, a G.I. Joe aircraft carrier. His wish for a title sponsor came early, he reported in his latest blog. (And it’d be cool to take him along caroling, too.)
Chris Zaldain has one of those Christmas stories that require the top of the tree. “Trait saying ‘Yes’ when I asked her to marry me Christmas Day 2014.” And here’s the rest of the story …
Chris Zaldain has one of those Christmas stories that require the top of the tree. “Trait saying ‘Yes’ when I asked her to marry me Christmas Day 2014.” And here’s the rest of the story …
“I dressed up our dogs in Xmas outfits, tied a card and ring to her dog’s collar, and the dogs helped me with that nervous moment!” And this year he’s hoping she gives back by getting something on list, which includes a Ping G400 Driver, Sig Sauer P365 9mm pistol and Yamaha EF2400 Generator.
“I dressed up our dogs in Xmas outfits, tied a card and ring to her dog’s collar, and the dogs helped me with that nervous moment!” And this year he’s hoping she gives back by getting something on list, which includes a Ping G400 Driver, Sig Sauer P365 9mm pistol and Yamaha EF2400 Generator.
Two makes a trend. Dale Hightower pretty much said his best Christmas gift was to receive “my wife’s hand in marriage.” Alicia and Dale have four children, but he’s still hoping for a title sponsor.
Two makes a trend. Dale Hightower pretty much said his best Christmas gift was to receive “my wife’s hand in marriage.” Alicia and Dale have four children, but he’s still hoping for a title sponsor.
And three is a trend. Shane Lineberger said ditto. “My wife agreed to marry me on Christmas Eve.” Faith and love were involved in Hope marrying him, and he has that trinity “To win an Elite Series event in 2019.” Now he just needs to catch the fish.
And three is a trend. Shane Lineberger said ditto. “My wife agreed to marry me on Christmas Eve.” Faith and love were involved in Hope marrying him, and he has that trinity “To win an Elite Series event in 2019.” Now he just needs to catch the fish.
Quentin Cappo makes it a movement. “My wife (Lauren) said yes to the ring.” And now most of his wishes could come true. “Winter Apparel. Anything outdoors related. Family vacation to Italy.” We’ll check to see if he got all three.
Quentin Cappo makes it a movement. “My wife (Lauren) said yes to the ring.” And now most of his wishes could come true. “Winter Apparel. Anything outdoors related. Family vacation to Italy.” We’ll check to see if he got all three.
Todd Auten offered similar sentiments as to his best gift: “My family, wife Susan and children, Nick and Grace.” His wish is simple. “Nothing. Maybe some good home cooking.” We hear ya, brother.
Todd Auten offered similar sentiments as to his best gift: “My family, wife Susan and children, Nick and Grace.” His wish is simple. “Nothing. Maybe some good home cooking.” We hear ya, brother.
Stetson Blaylock was on board with the whole thought of being blessed for a great family, starting with wife Lindsey. Both children, Kei and Linnie, were fall babies, too. Topping Blaylock’s wish list is blue trophy.
Stetson Blaylock was on board with the whole thought of being blessed for a great family, starting with wife Lindsey. Both children, Kei and Linnie, were fall babies, too. Topping Blaylock’s wish list is blue trophy.
Brad Whatley relates a touching story. “The best Christmas present that I ever received was my daughter. This is a picture of my father holding her just before he passed. I thank God that she was born and he got to meet his granddaughter.” His wish stays right in line. “I want a happy and healthy family and for God to watch over us this coming year. I would also like to have a successful rookie season on the Elite Series.”
Brad Whatley relates a touching story. “The best Christmas present that I ever received was my daughter. This is a picture of my father holding her just before he passed. I thank God that she was born and he got to meet his granddaughter.” His wish stays right in line. “I want a happy and healthy family and for God to watch over us this coming year. I would also like to have a successful rookie season on the Elite Series.”
Back to adventures, and Clark Wendlandt said he’s been on some good ones courtesy of his wife, Patti. “My hunting trip to Mexico every year,” he said, adding a great wish that has become reality. “Going on a great family trip to the Bahamas over Christmas!”
Back to adventures, and Clark Wendlandt said he’s been on some good ones courtesy of his wife, Patti. “My hunting trip to Mexico every year,” he said, adding a great wish that has become reality. “Going on a great family trip to the Bahamas over Christmas!”
Tyler Rivet left Raceland, La., for a big hunt some years ago. “I would have to say an elk hunting trip with my grandpa … We each killed a bull.” He’s wishing for “great sponsors, beautiful girlfriend, and anything that can help me in the years to come on the Elites.”
Tyler Rivet left Raceland, La., for a big hunt some years ago. “I would have to say an elk hunting trip with my grandpa … We each killed a bull.” He’s wishing for “great sponsors, beautiful girlfriend, and anything that can help me in the years to come on the Elites.”
Paul Mueller said his gift was a great catch, although this isn’t the exact fish, he just fishes most all of the time for multiple species. “My personal best northern pike was caught on Christmas Day.” His wish is to do it again, and get another “big northern pike through the ice.”
Paul Mueller said his gift was a great catch, although this isn’t the exact fish, he just fishes most all of the time for multiple species. “My personal best northern pike was caught on Christmas Day.” His wish is to do it again, and get another “big northern pike through the ice.”
While Brock Mosley and wife, Leslie, were so thankful for their first child this fall, he looked back to his best actual gift, “a rifle when I was a kid. I hope my wife gets me a new truck.” There’s a nice wish.
While Brock Mosley and wife, Leslie, were so thankful for their first child this fall, he looked back to his best actual gift, “a rifle when I was a kid. I hope my wife gets me a new truck.” There’s a nice wish.
Canadian Chris Johnston, who killed this buck in November with a muzzleloader, got started hunting with his favorite present. “My first hunting gun, single shot 20-gauge,” he said, adding his request. “A new computer to be able to edit videos better.”
Canadian Chris Johnston, who killed this buck in November with a muzzleloader, got started hunting with his favorite present. “My first hunting gun, single shot 20-gauge,” he said, adding his request. “A new computer to be able to edit videos better.”
Johnston’s brother, Cory, favored another tool that hooked him on hunting. “There have been many Christmas presents that stick out in my mind. One in particular is the very first bow that my parents bought me. I was probably around 10-12 and all I used to do was go track down critters I could shoot with it. That started my whitetail addiction.” As for this year, “I’m just excited for my son and nephews. It’s all about them now. But if Santa brings a 2019 Elite Series AOY title I won’t complain.”
Johnston’s brother, Cory, favored another tool that hooked him on hunting. “There have been many Christmas presents that stick out in my mind. One in particular is the very first bow that my parents bought me. I was probably around 10-12 and all I used to do was go track down critters I could shoot with it. That started my whitetail addiction.” As for this year, “I’m just excited for my son and nephews. It’s all about them now. But if Santa brings a 2019 Elite Series AOY title I won’t complain.”
The trend of rifles is picked up by Frank Talley, who got his “first deer rifle when I was 5 years old.” His wishes? “A healthy grandson (my daughter is pregnant) and to win the classic in Knoxville.”
The trend of rifles is picked up by Frank Talley, who got his “first deer rifle when I was 5 years old.” His wishes? “A healthy grandson (my daughter is pregnant) and to win the classic in Knoxville.”
Gary Glouse shows off his favorite. “A Benelli Montefeltro shotgun.” His tastes also show in his list: “A 2019 Corvette ZR1, red in color please! A new Toyota Tundra. A new Phoenix Bass Boat.” That’d make anybody’s Christmas.
Gary Glouse shows off his favorite. “A Benelli Montefeltro shotgun.” His tastes also show in his list: “A 2019 Corvette ZR1, red in color please! A new Toyota Tundra. A new Phoenix Bass Boat.” That’d make anybody’s Christmas.
Drew Cook, of Midway, Fla., gets in on the first firearm fun, saying the best thing he’s every found under the tree was his first deer rifle. As for this year, his list includes “my entry fees paid -- cross my fingers Santa comes through.”
Drew Cook, of Midway, Fla., gets in on the first firearm fun, saying the best thing he’s every found under the tree was his first deer rifle. As for this year, his list includes “my entry fees paid — cross my fingers Santa comes through.”
A gift can be the start of something, including a career in fishing, as Kyle Monti can attest as his best was “entry fee money for a tournament.” He said he and wife Haley will relish Christmas morning with son, Jett. “My son is 3 so I really just want to see his face light up Christmas morning. He’s a talker now so I’m looking forward to what he has to say!”
A gift can be the start of something, including a career in fishing, as Kyle Monti can attest as his best was “entry fee money for a tournament.” He said he and wife Haley will relish Christmas morning with son, Jett. “My son is 3 so I really just want to see his face light up Christmas morning. He’s a talker now so I’m looking forward to what he has to say!”
Some favored gifts might not have been the best idea. Chad Morgenthaler relates his story of greatness lost. “My first bow and arrow, however the next day I shot a hole in mom’s new car and I haven’t seen it since.” Of course his wish now? “My bow and arrow back!!!”
Some favored gifts might not have been the best idea. Chad Morgenthaler relates his story of greatness lost. “My first bow and arrow, however the next day I shot a hole in mom’s new car and I haven’t seen it since.” Of course his wish now? “My bow and arrow back!!!”
Koby Kreiger fondly remembers receiving a football uniform in his youth. He’s outgrown that, and now wants a bloodhound puppy. Wait, both those gifts are great for kids at heart.
Koby Kreiger fondly remembers receiving a football uniform in his youth. He’s outgrown that, and now wants a bloodhound puppy. Wait, both those gifts are great for kids at heart.
So, where’s the fishing tackle? Ah, here it comes. Let’s start with David Fritts. “In 1975, I received a Lew’s BB1 G reel. I was so proud of that reel I slept with it beside my pillow!!! True story!!” The Classic and AOY winner has new wishes, namely “a John Deere tractor, 15-pound bass, Henry 44 magnum lever action rifle.”
So, where’s the fishing tackle? Ah, here it comes. Let’s start with David Fritts. “In 1975, I received a Lew’s BB1 G reel. I was so proud of that reel I slept with it beside my pillow!!! True story!!” The Classic and AOY winner has new wishes, namely “a John Deere tractor, 15-pound bass, Henry 44 magnum lever action rifle.”
Randy Sullivan found himself digging his fish finder. “When I was in high school I finally pestered my dad into getting a new Lowrance HDS 10 with structure scan. I must've spent a week idling around looking after that. It seems petty but it opened up a new world in fishing for me and really motivated me to do better.” His wishes are varied. “My main Christmas present is just getting together and enjoying my family's company. I still want to catch a Texas ShareLunker over 13 pounds and have that precious replica though. That's a gift to be earned!”
Randy Sullivan found himself digging his fish finder. “When I was in high school I finally pestered my dad into getting a new Lowrance HDS 10 with structure scan. I must’ve spent a week idling around looking after that. It seems petty but it opened up a new world in fishing for me and really motivated me to do better.” His wishes are varied. “My main Christmas present is just getting together and enjoying my family’s company. I still want to catch a Texas ShareLunker over 13 pounds and have that precious replica though. That’s a gift to be earned!”
“My first ‘real’ rod and reel setup from my dad,” Tyler Carriere said. “It was a Berkeley Bionic rod and a Lew’s bait caster. I think I was 10 or 11 years old when I got it.” Look what that’s got him wishing for now. “A Title sponsor would be awesome! (LOL) 2. A new side by side ATV for our deer lease. 3. Some “negotiator” swim baits.”
“My first ‘real’ rod and reel setup from my dad,” Tyler Carriere said. “It was a Berkeley Bionic rod and a Lew’s bait caster. I think I was 10 or 11 years old when I got it.” Look what that’s got him wishing for now. “A Title sponsor would be awesome! (LOL) 2. A new side by side ATV for our deer lease. 3. Some “negotiator” swim baits.”
There’s a picture of a kid and his fish from some time ago. It’s Harvey Horne with a best gift of his “first fishing pole.” With the busy season, he has a wish many of us share. “A nap ... a Christmas nap is the best kind of nap.” That begs the question, does your family do turkey, ham or something else for Christmas dinner?
There’s a picture of a kid and his fish from some time ago. It’s Harvey Horne with a best gift of his “first fishing pole.” With the busy season, he has a wish many of us share. “A nap … a Christmas nap is the best kind of nap.” That begs the question, does your family do turkey, ham or something else for Christmas dinner?
Mike Huff shows off his top present. “It would have to be my first fishing reel. It was an Abu Garcia 5500 and I got it when I was 8. Still use it some to this day!” Now he wants a big gift. “I’d love a brand new fully rigged 920 Phoenix bass boat!”
Mike Huff shows off his top present. “It would have to be my first fishing reel. It was an Abu Garcia 5500 and I got it when I was 8. Still use it some to this day!” Now he wants a big gift. “I’d love a brand new fully rigged 920 Phoenix bass boat!”
Rob Digh of Denver, N.C., has an interesting story about his first bass boat that was given to him. “The boat was one of Hank Parker’s film boats. He lived down the street from me. He actually took me out after Christmas and showed me how everything worked on the boat and give me some tips on fishing.” Incredible, and he wishes for a safe 2019.
Rob Digh of Denver, N.C., has an interesting story about his first bass boat that was given to him. “The boat was one of Hank Parker’s film boats. He lived down the street from me. He actually took me out after Christmas and showed me how everything worked on the boat and give me some tips on fishing.” Incredible, and he wishes for a safe 2019.
Jason Williamson’s best present didn’t have to do with his go-cart racing as a youth. “My first baitcasting combo many years ago.” As for his hopes, “Peace, happiness, and new underwear.” Didn’t Skylar Hamilton want some, too?
Jason Williamson’s best present didn’t have to do with his go-cart racing as a youth. “My first baitcasting combo many years ago.” As for his hopes, “Peace, happiness, and new underwear.” Didn’t Skylar Hamilton want some, too?
Sometimes, even a young gun can’t select a favorite. “Too many good ones to just pick one! But probably something fishing or hunting related!” Sure, and how about your wishes -- something in green? “Some more fishing toys! And money is always nice!” Oh, we were thinking green fish.
Sometimes, even a young gun can’t select a favorite. “Too many good ones to just pick one! But probably something fishing or hunting related!” Sure, and how about your wishes — something in green? “Some more fishing toys! And money is always nice!” Oh, we were thinking green fish.
Oh no, a gag gift got John Crews’ goat. “One year when I was a late teen, my dad was going to buy me a new little bass boat. He drew out a cute little stick figure type drawing of a boat and wrote under it, ‘New Bass Boat.’ I was done after that.” Yeah, that would do it. Crews has done quite well with boats after that, and he has some specific gift ideas. “I am asking for a new camera to shoot video with, a waterproof box to put all my video gear in, and I will probably buy myself a new laptop.”
Oh no, a gag gift got John Crews’ goat. “One year when I was a late teen, my dad was going to buy me a new little bass boat. He drew out a cute little stick figure type drawing of a boat and wrote under it, ‘New Bass Boat.’ I was done after that.” Yeah, that would do it. Crews has done quite well with boats after that, and he has some specific gift ideas. “I am asking for a new camera to shoot video with, a waterproof box to put all my video gear in, and I will probably buy myself a new laptop.”
Hank Cherry likes getting away, so one year he got the perfect small package. “A key to the family beach house,” he said before adding his wish. “For my kids and wife to have a wonderful Christmas.” Take them to the beach house and they might.
Hank Cherry likes getting away, so one year he got the perfect small package. “A key to the family beach house,” he said before adding his wish. “For my kids and wife to have a wonderful Christmas.” Take them to the beach house and they might.
Randy Pierson got a great gift he wasn’t expecting. “My parents and wife surprised me by picking up my mounted 7.71 spotted bass that I caught from Lake Don Pedro. I took it to the taxidermist to get it mounted and had no idea my parents paid for the balance due and picked it up. I was amazed when I opened it on Christmas morning.” Now he just wants his wife and kids to get what they want, and he’d like some New Jeans fishing gear.
Randy Pierson got a great gift he wasn’t expecting. “My parents and wife surprised me by picking up my mounted 7.71 spotted bass that I caught from Lake Don Pedro. I took it to the taxidermist to get it mounted and had no idea my parents paid for the balance due and picked it up. I was amazed when I opened it on Christmas morning.” Now he just wants his wife and kids to get what they want, and he’d like some New Jeans fishing gear.
Luke Palmer didn’t have a specific best gift but said, “the thought of someone getting me something makes every present the best.” With family Bernice, Aubrey, Colin and Carson, he wished for his family to enjoy the holidays together and for everyone to have safe travels. Oh, and “My Phoenix/Mercury package to somehow fit through the chimney from Santa Claus.”
Luke Palmer didn’t have a specific best gift but said, “the thought of someone getting me something makes every present the best.” With family Bernice, Aubrey, Colin and Carson, he wished for his family to enjoy the holidays together and for everyone to have safe travels. Oh, and “My Phoenix/Mercury package to somehow fit through the chimney from Santa Claus.”
Greg DiPalma said his girlfriend, Kellye DuVilla, gave him his best gift, a bobblehead of himself. As for this year, he seems to not be picky in wishes. “Nothing really, I’m happy with just hanging out with everyone and having a good time.” Sounds cool.
Greg DiPalma said his girlfriend, Kellye DuVilla, gave him his best gift, a bobblehead of himself. As for this year, he seems to not be picky in wishes. “Nothing really, I’m happy with just hanging out with everyone and having a good time.” Sounds cool.
Mark Menendez’s best gift was “a pair of 5-pound spotted bass!!” Sounds fun. His wish is heartfelt. “Health, peace for all and a blue trophy.”
Mark Menendez’s best gift was “a pair of 5-pound spotted bass!!” Sounds fun. His wish is heartfelt. “Health, peace for all and a blue trophy.”
Jamie Hartman was just happy to be able to spend the season with family, and he’d sure like a late gift of an Elite title, too.
Jamie Hartman was just happy to be able to spend the season with family, and he’d sure like a late gift of an Elite title, too.
New Elite Matt Arey didn’t have a specific gift but he’d like his family, wife, Emily and children Reese and Wren, to enjoy their Christmas and would like everyone else to as well.
New Elite Matt Arey didn’t have a specific gift but he’d like his family, wife, Emily and children Reese and Wren, to enjoy their Christmas and would like everyone else to as well.
Robbie Latuso knows exactly what gifts he likes most. “My pets,” he said. “Basin was a chocolate lab and was my best friend for 7 years, and Gabby which is a toy poodle and protector of my office that I have been using for 11 years.” And his wishes are lofty. “A blue trophy to hold over my head next year. 2. A ticket to the Bassmaster Classic. 3. Worldwide peace.” Say, this isn’t the Mr. Bassmaster question competition.
Robbie Latuso knows exactly what gifts he likes most. “My pets,” he said. “Basin was a chocolate lab and was my best friend for 7 years, and Gabby which is a toy poodle and protector of my office that I have been using for 11 years.” And his wishes are lofty. “A blue trophy to hold over my head next year. 2. A ticket to the Bassmaster Classic. 3. Worldwide peace.” Say, this isn’t the Mr. Bassmaster question competition.
Brett Preuett also had a dog waiting under the tree. “A Dalmatian dog that was amazing when I was 12 years old.” Kinda liking his style on what he wants. “A new range finder, some new cowboy boots, and possibly a horse.” An Appaloosa? The white horses with black spots?
Brett Preuett also had a dog waiting under the tree. “A Dalmatian dog that was amazing when I was 12 years old.” Kinda liking his style on what he wants. “A new range finder, some new cowboy boots, and possibly a horse.” An Appaloosa? The white horses with black spots?
Hunter Shryock reported he got some great news for himself and Felicia Walker. “She said YES!!! Beyond Blessed to be marrying my Best Friend!!! I can’t wait to do life with you!!!” He had initially said his best gift was a GT interceptor BMX bicycle, but we think the proposal in front of family this weekend esclipses that. Now for his wish. “I already have everything I could ever ask for except one thing -- a blue trophy! I’ll have to wait until Christmas 2019 to see if I get one.”
Hunter Shryock reported he got some great news for himself and Felicia Walker. “She said YES!!! Beyond Blessed to be marrying my Best Friend!!! I can’t wait to do life with you!!!” He had initially said his best gift was a GT interceptor BMX bicycle, but we think the proposal in front of family this weekend esclipses that. Now for his wish. “I already have everything I could ever ask for except one thing — a blue trophy! I’ll have to wait until Christmas 2019 to see if I get one.”
And we close with Jesse Tacoronte, who related a story that reads something like a Christmas miracle. “This particular Christmas has to be the best on record for our family. My mother in law has battled lung cancer for over five years and has had a quarter of her lung removed. They thought it had come back but just last Friday we found out she is cancer free. After 32 years of marriage, she is like a mother to me so having her a bit longer makes Christmas very special this year. Hope you and your family have an awesome holiday!” Wow! Definitely saved the best for last.
And we close with Jesse Tacoronte, who related a story that reads something like a Christmas miracle. “This particular Christmas has to be the best on record for our family. My mother in law has battled lung cancer for over five years and has had a quarter of her lung removed. They thought it had come back but just last Friday we found out she is cancer free. After 32 years of marriage, she is like a mother to me so having her a bit longer makes Christmas very special this year. Hope you and your family have an awesome holiday!” Wow! Definitely saved the best for last.