Kasyn Dunn of Salina, right, is pictured with his winning 4.20 pound smallmouth bass as he stands with his father, Kelly, on Sept. 9, 2017, during the Big Bass Challenge at Lake Wilson.

Youth angler wins Big Bass Challenge

Wilson, KS (Sept. 9, 2017) — Anglers battled windy conditions during the 17th Annual Big Bass Challenge at Lake Wilson. Ninety-four anglers in 47 boats participated in the annual event. Boats ventured out one-by-one during the numbered start which followed the playing of The National Anthem. The lake was big after filling to conservation pool last September, but anglers were successful in catching good quality fish wile weeding through smaller year classes of fish that will be the future of Lake Wilson for years to come. Youth angler Kasyn Dunn of Salina caught the big bass of the tournament, a 4.20 pound smallmouth bass. Kasyn, fishing with his father, Kelly, caught the fish on a tube jig that he pitched into a swirl after his father missed the fish on a top-water bait. Despite the conditions, anglers weighed in good quality smallmouth and largemouth bass during the event.  Anglers were treated to a post-tournament BBQ with refreshments and more including a variety of door prizes provided by tournament sponsors. Hourly winners received checks for first and second place during the awards celebration following the tournament.

Darrel VonFeldt, president of the Hays Bass Anglers Association, give a final message to anglers at the beginning of the tournament.