Like a true professional angler, Ryan Wood delivered the goods on cue.
The 11-year-old hooked his biggest bass—a two-pounder—in front of the camera boat while fishing with Frank and Terry McClymont (Team #30) en route to winning the fifth-annual Kid-Pro derby Sunday.
“I usually fish walleye so it was the definitely the biggest bass I’ve ever caught,” Wood said after he and the McClymonts reeled in three fish for a total of 11.28 pounds—including a five-pounder.
Wood won a day on the lake with Jackfish Hammy Guiding Services.
“It was amazing. Lots of fun,” he added.
“He knew [the cameras] were on. Right on cue,” said Terry McClymont.
Their total was only .48 pounds more than Steve Pawlikoski, fishing with Bruce Ness and Brad Carlson (Team #52), who finished in second-place with 10.80 pounds.
Jacob Witherspoon, teamed up with Dean and Wayne Howard (Team #28), were third with a 10.51-pound total.
Rounding out the top five were Alex Shoemaker (with Doug Wright and Guy Johnston) at 9.79 pounds, followed by Robin Seiders (with Jimmy and Fletcher Klick) with 8.64.
A total of 25 teams fished the five-hour derby, which unofficially kicks off Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship festivities. The actual three-day, 134-boat derby begins Thursday morning.
Each kid angler was given a tackle box from Richard’s Rod and Reel.
“I think everyone enjoyed it,” said Wayne Howard. “It’s part of the tournament and we like dealing with the kids.”
