On February 12^th the Kayak Fishing ClassicS held their second tournament of a scheduled eleven tournaments in 2011. The Weedon Island Mammoth Redfish & Trout Classic began at first light with the contestants launching from the island. All were in pursuit of large redfish and trout in hopes of winning the tournament and adding to their point’s total. There were familiar faces as well of several new contestants including two lady anglers. The weather was on the chilly side and the wind did not help the comfort level. As the day unfolded, the weather warmed and so did the fishing, at least for some.

Shawn Neurath of Team SlotLimit Radio/ Diablo Paddlesports caught the largest redfish of the day measuring 25.75 inches on a D.O.A. Lure. Shawn was in the Bait Bonus for extra points and earned First Place. He was nicely rewarded from Aqua Bound Paddles with the Big Fish Award and a huge collection of top sponsor gear for his efforts. Shawn is one of two members of the team and has now moved into first place in the Series Standings after two events.

Holly Arnold captured Second Place using High Roller Lures for the Bait Bonus and securing her first tournament win. Her victory also makes her the ClassicS First Lady Angler Winner and earned her some fantastic gear from the ClassicS sponsors. Holly was caught off guard and was totally surprised. The crowd cheered and celebrated her victory when her name was announced at the awards ceremony located at Whiskey Joes in Tampa. Holly was so excited that she leapt from her seat and ran to the awards ceremony table for her official recognition and sponsor awards. Many photographs were taken and Holly rewarded all with her great smile and charm. Congratulations Holly and we are sure we will see more from her.

Kelly Phillips scored more series points by hooking Third Place with a nice trout and the D.O.A. Bait Bonus. Kelly is off to a great start after fishing both the tournaments and looks toward the top of the leader board in 5^th place in series standings. Kelly’s endurance of the early morning wind and cold paid off later in the day. The north winds kept much of the tide offshore. It was a tough day of fishing but Kelly landed his winning trout and some great sponsor gear that can be seen on the ClassicS website in the photo album.

James Foy also had a nice trout and won Fourth Place. James caught his fish on a D.O.A. Lure for the Bait Bonus earning him a position in the series standings. James did very well in the 2010 Series Year and looks to top that in the 2011 edition. James earned a very nice catch of sponsor gear of which he shares with his fishing partner. James introduced his wife Jessica Brady to the fun of tournament fishing with this event and she quickly earned Series Points. Jessica had a great time and caught fish but they were just a bit too small. Jessica is looking forward to fishing the series with her husband.

Capturing Fifth Place with a very nice trout was Mark Knowles, the Defending National Champion. Mark, a great sportsman, also battled the wind all day.  His efforts finally paid off late as the water warmed.  Mark was rewarded with some very nice sponsor gear including the Bending Branches Paddles Big Fish Award. Mark caught the largest trout but was unable to take advantage of the Bait Bonus for the extra points. We congratulate Mark who is now in Third Place in the Series Standings and is looking forward to next month’s tournament at Fort DeSoto. To learn more about the ClassicS please visit www.KayakFishingClassicS.com