Elite pro takes lead of almost four pounds into final day
Sep 23, 2011 - SYRACUSE, N.Y. — With east wind wreaking havoc on his frog and 167 other boats seeking protected water, Ish Monroe had a trying Day Two of the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Northern Open.
But the Elite Series pro not only landed a limit weighing 16 pounds even, he extended his lead over the field with a total of 35-14, nearly four pounds ahead of the pack.
Though Oneida Lake is full of substantial smallmouth bass, Monroe is sticking to the shallows and targeting largemouth with a topwater frog. Complete Story
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So Monroe's primary goal this week was a Top 25, which would put him into the Classic range, and perhaps provide a chance at a Top 12. He's well on his way to both of those, courtesy of his Snag Proof Ish's Phat Frog and a flip-bait.
He lost a big one at boatside, and could never shake a 13-inch spotted bass.
"It was a fun day, except for that one I lost," Monroe told BassFan. "I'm very happy with it. I'll take 12 pounds tomorrow and be completely happy. If you look at the weights, 50th place is 6 1/2 pounds. That tells you how tough it is. There are a lot of great fishermen who are struggling. Complete Story
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And on what was arguably the toughest first day of any event in the 2011 Elite season, Brauer’s 14 pounds, 10 ounces of Arkansas River bass was just enough to command the top spot in the Diamond Drive on Thursday. He was 2 ounces ahead of Ish Monroe of Hughson, Calif., in second place with 14-8, and more than a pound in front of Keith Poche of Troy, Ala., third with 13-8. Complete Story
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“I’m going out there fishing, and having fun, there’s nothing special about what I’m doing,” Monroe said. “I don’t get mad. I don’t get frustrated. I’m chattin’ it up with the crowd back there near me, and enjoying the day. That’s what it’s all about.” Read more