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Spring 2018
page 20
This is the 2nd year in a row where we have an Elite event before the Classic. That is really different, because we had always started with the first focus being on the Classic. It feels like a little more of a rush to get our equipment rigged, ready and broke-in to start the season up., when there is an event before the Classic.
A regular event before the Classic puts a different twist on things; because you can’t just start the season, go to a regular even and have your focus on the Classic. I got a bad start to the season last year and I think it was because I didn’t prepare for the first events with the emphasis I should’ve.
I kind of looked past the first two events to the Classic and thought I could show up and be okay. I went to that first Elite Series and finished in the 70’s – my worst tournament of the year. Then we went to Okeechobee and I didn’t make the cut again, finishing in the 60’s.
I ended up turning my year around after the Classic and even with the first two events being on a downturn, I finished 28th for the year and qualified for the 2018 Classic.
But from all that, I learned I have to focus on every event and not just focus forward to the Classic. So this year, I am really making sure I get everything geared toward Lake Martin in February and not go beyond that.
CLEAR WATER SPOTTED BASS LAKE STARTS IT OFF
For me, the first event at Martin is only 3 and a half hours away from the house, so it won’t be as hard of a commitment. Martin is a really good clear water lake, known for big spotted bass. It will be real interesting to see what the Elite Series pulls out of there in the winter time.
This could be a multiple technique location. A lot of things could be going on at this time of year and I want to