News Summary
Garrett Smith and Andrew Blanton from Lander University clinched their second national title at the Strike King Bassmaster College National Championship. Their victory at Cherokee Lake marked a milestone as they became the first team in history to win consecutive championships. Over the three-day competition, they showed incredible skill and adaptability, leading them to a total weight of 43 pounds, 3 ounces. Their strategy featured both shallow and deep fishing techniques, and they navigated challenges, including a dead-fish penalty, to secure their win against tough competition.
Jefferson City, TN – Garrett Smith and Andrew Blanton from Lander University achieved a remarkable feat by securing the 2025 Strike King Bassmaster College National Championship at Cherokee Lake, TN. This victory not only marks their second national title but also makes them the first team in Bassmaster College history to win back-to-back championships.
The championship took place over three days from July 10 to July 12, 2025, with Smith and Blanton amassing a total weight of 43 pounds, 3 ounces. Their victory came after a thrilling overtime fish-off where they caught a crucial 2-pound largemouth fish just five minutes in, successfully outpacing their closest competitors from Carson-Newman University, Andrew Turner and James Sumrell.
On the final day of the tournament, the duo faced challenges including a dead-fish penalty that momentarily jeopardized their position. However, they managed to adapt their fishing tactics effectively. They initially ranked sixth before the tournament and made strategic adjustments as the competition progressed. Their performance throughout the event included weights of 14 pounds, 13 ounces on Day 1, 15 pounds, 12 ounces on Day 2, and 12 pounds, 10 ounces on Day 3.
Winning Strategy
Smith and Blanton employed a combination of shallow and deep fishing techniques, focusing on bank grass and offshore rocks. Their key bait for morning fishing was the True South V-Twin buzzbait, paired with a Zoom Horny Toad, which proved effective for finding fish along the grassy banks. On the final day, they switched their strategy to target isolated boulders in 25-35 feet of water, showcasing their ability to adapt to the changing conditions of the tournament.
Historic Accomplishments
This victory sits uniquely in the realm of competitive collegiate fishing as it solidifies Lander University’s place in the annals of Bassmaster College history. Prior to this championship, Smith and Blanton had won their first national title at Lake Hartwell in 2024. Their accomplishments significantly contribute to Lander University’s reputation in this competitive sport.
The tournament featured participation from 154 teams and was organized by the Association of Collegiate Anglers (ACA), which aims to promote collegiate bass fishing. The ACA also manages the Collegiate School of the Year Rankings and various other events and programs designed to foster a love for fishing among college students. Remarkably, the competition welcomed all entrants without entry fees or membership costs, thereby promoting inclusivity within collegiate fishing.
Final Thoughts
Following their win, Smith remarked on the impact of their achievement, stressing how significant the victory was for them both personally and as representatives of Lander University. Their performance throughout the season positioned Lander University to finish the 2024-25 season ranked 14th in the Bass Pro Shops School of the Year standings.
This back-to-back national championship illustrates the dedication and skill of collegiate anglers like Smith and Blanton, setting a high standard for aspiring bass fishermen across academic institutions in America.
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Additional Resources
- The Bass Cast: Smith & Blanton Claim Second Straight National Title
- The Rogersville Review: Championship Coverage
- Knox News: Jesse Wiggins Leads Bassmaster Elite
- Wikipedia: Bassmaster College National Championship
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bass Fishing
Author: HERE Greenwood
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