Fall 2019
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online research”. He reported that he is on the water every chance he gets. After he has conducted ample online research, he spends at least two full days pre-fishing for every event.
The first day consists of figuring out the pattern and the next day consists of finding the big fish haunts. It’s no coincidence that he has earned the nickname “Big Fish”.
Thao believes tournament preparation is key. Once pre-fish is complete, he meticulously checks, double checks, and triple checks all his equipment. I asked Damian to give me his best five tips for tournament success and here is what he had to offer: • Always have a spare Hawg Trough, you never know
when you are going to break one. • Re-tie your lures consistently. I re-tie my lures after
every 10 casts. Line maintenance is key. It only takes a
few seconds to re-tie and to check your line.
• Re-spool all your line before
every tournament. I like to remove all
possibilities of equipment failure and
line is so important.
• Keep things simple, don’t
overcomplicate your choices. For
instance, I only carry four colors of
crankbaits.
• Confidence is key. You always
have to be positive and believe you
can win. Strive to do better than you
did last time rather than focusing on beating a specific
angler. Confidence is everything, if you continue to
grind it will pay off.
I would say that these tips have paid off for Thao. He has certainly shown he is a force to reckon with on the California kayak bass fishing scene.
When you are at your next tournament, look for the guy in the signature grey sweatpants and blue Wilderness Systems cap and take the time to introduce yourself. He is one of the most humble anglers you will meet who has a passion for the sport that is palpable. •
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