Outdoors Bound: Major League Fishing Pros Like Smith Mountain Lake
FRANKLIN COUNTY, Va. (WFXR) – Until this week, when Major League Fishing held its B&W Heavy Hitters All-Star Tournament at Smith Mountain Lake, it had been more than a decade since SML hosted a major bass circuit fishing tournament. If the reaction from the MLF pros is any indication, they would like to see their circuit return sooner rather than later.
What many of the pros, some of the best bass anglers in the world, found out is something those of us who fish locally have known for a long time: that Smith Mountain Lake is a prime bass fishery and a fun, fantastic place to cast a line.
“I would say Smith Mountain is in my top five for coolest place I’ve ever fished a tournament,” said MLF pro Drew Gill.
“This is my first time here at Smith Mountain Lake, absolutely love this place,” said MLF pro Justin Lucas. “The fishing is amazing, I’m absolutely impressed.”
MLF pros fishing on Smith Mountain Lake (Photo: George Noleff)
What many of the pros especially liked was the lake’s diversity. There are large reservoir and lake environments, and river-type environments. All hold fish and all require different techniques for success. In addition, largemouth and smallmouth bass are available.
“You can go up the river and get into a little of that stained water, or you can go to the dam and fish that clean open water,” said MLF pro Michael Neal. “Largemouth, smallmouth, it’s a fun time.”
Many suggested they would return, but at different times of the year when fishing conditions would be different.
“I like the lake, it sets up pretty nice,” said MLF pro Mark Daniels, Jr “I’d like to come here in the spring.
Others were impressed with the surroundings, as well as the fishing.
As for a return to Smith Mountain Lake for future tournaments, most of the MLF pros were in agreement. They say “Yes!”
“I would love to come back here,” said MLF pro Jeff Sprague. “The fishing’s phenomenal, there are tons of bass in it.”
A professional bass angler casts a shoreline during the Major League Fishing All-Star event at Smith Mountain Lake (Photo: George Noleff)
