With the spring forward time change this week, we lost an hour of sleep; however, it stays lighter outside, which is a bonus! Also, spring means the weather is getting warmer. Warmer weather means it is time for the fishing season. Fishing is an activity to relax and unwind when over-stressed or having a busy day. Since it is fishing season, it is the Lewis Cass Bass Club’s time to shine.
The Lewis Cass Bass Club is coming up on its third season, and the main man or Boat Captain in charge is none other than Lewis Cass Algebra II and Honors Geometry teacher Mr. Temme. Mr. Temme stated, “There are fourteen kids participating in the Lewis Cass Bass Club.” Also, there are two divisions they will be competing in this year, which include the Club and Tournament Division. The Lewis Cass Bass Club will be attending their first tournament on May 16, 2026, and traveling to the St. Joe River in Northern Indiana. The Bass Club meets every Tuesday for its weekly meetings leading up to their first tournament. They will be competing in four tournaments this year, along with the State Championship Tournament in May at Patoka Lake.
When it comes to participating in fishing tournaments, many athletes happen to have one they look forward to most. According to Lewis Cass junior Landen Thorpe, the tournament he is most looking forward to is the state at Patoka. He states, “I am looking forward to this because it’s an overnight stay and the biggest tournament of the year.” Also, junior Nate Packard states, “My favorite fishing spot to practice for tournaments with my buddies is Chuck’s pond.” Nate’s expectation for this year in Bass Club is “to succeed well in each tournament with a top ten finish at each one.” According to 8th-grade new member Oakland Preston, “I am excited to fish with my friend Jack Wood (a returning 8th-grade member), and hopefully catch some big bass at the tournaments.”
Many members of the Bass Club also have a favorite part. Wyatt O’Neill states, “My favorite part of being a member of the Lewis Cass Bass Club is all of the sponsors we receive, and the tournaments we get to participate in.” When fishing in tournaments, it is also important to think about the ways to succeed. Landen Thorpe mentions, “My favorite lure to fish with is a tube because it’s fun to cast, and it’s very versatile.” Junior Wyatt O’Neill added, “I prefer fishing with a baitcaster because you can use it for more lures than a spinning rod.” Overall, there are several different techniques athletes can use when it comes to bass fishing.
A typical tournament day starts by meeting at the school at 4 am. Then, the athletes drive for two hours to Northern Indiana, where the lakes are located. Once they arrive, the athletes sign in and fish for a straight eight hours. During those eight hours, the members partner up and try to catch the five biggest fish. Then, it takes an hour to weigh all of the catches. The overall winners are the partnership that weighs in the five heaviest fish. After the long and busy day, the members of the Bass Club make the long drive back home.
In conclusion, the Lewis Cass Bass Club is going to shine bright this upcoming year. Their first tournament will be held on May 16 at St. Joe River in Northern Indiana. Overall, I wish the best of luck to our bass club members this season! Go out and support your fishing Kings!
