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I worked on tackle the day before the James River Bassmaster Northern Open at my Chickahominy Riverfront Park campsite.
Photo: Mark Hicks
With a laptop computer, a coffeemaker and a microwave oven, the picnic table at my campsite was a combination kitchen and office.
Photo: Mark Hicks
My neighbors at Chickahominy Riverfront Park were kind enough to let me enjoy their campfire.
Photo: Mark Hicks
The boat trailer parking lot at Chickahominy Riverfront Park was full every practice day. With every big tournament on the James River, the majority of the anglers run to the Chick.
Photo: Mark Hicks
New York’s Brian Kelly was one of the last boats to take of the Chickahominy River on the final official practice day. Kelly also camped next to me at Chickahominy Riverfront Park.
Photo: Mark Hicks
Kelly Pratt, a feared James River rat, registers prior to the Bassmaster James River Northern Open. He finished in 16th place.
Photo: Mark Hicks
The coveted first place trophy for the pro anglers was on display at the meeting.
Photo: Mark Hicks
So was the trophy for the co-anglers. Tournament director Chris Bowes keeps a watchful eye on the proceedings.
Photo: Mark Hicks
Pennsylvania’s David Lefebre was one of several professional anglers from the FLW Tour that competed at the James Open. A number of Bassmaster Elite pros were also in the event.
Photo: Mark Hicks
Tournament director Chris Bowes takes charge of the pre-tournament meeting.
Photo: Mark Hicks
The James River Northern Open drew a large field of nearly 200 boats. This was a major event that attracted a host of professional anglers and local James River aces.
Photo: Mark Hicks
The auditorium was packed with competitors.
Photo: Mark Hicks
Every morning April self parked her A&B Lunchboat in the marina. Her wares included hot breakfast sandwiches, hot coffee and ice. Self has been in business for seven years. Here, she sells a cup of coffee to Jeff Kouhart prior to takeoff at the James River.
Photo: Mark Hicks
