Peyton Harris and Dalton Head Secure Victory with Impressive Performance
The 2024 Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops unfolded at Lake Murray on January 26-27, 2024, and the University of Montevallo’s dynamic duo, Peyton Harris and Dalton Head, emerged victorious, showcasing their exceptional angling skills.
Photo by Tyler Bridges/B.A.S.S. showing Peyton Harris and Dalton Head with their catch
Lake Murray, previously ranked No. 4 overall on Bassmaster Magazine’s 2023 100 Best Bass Lakes list and No. 1 in the Southeast, set the stage for a fiercely competitive tournament. Teams from across the nation, including California, Indiana, Kansas, and Wisconsin, converged at the lake, making it a significant event for the region.
Miriam Atria, President/CEO of Capital City/Lake Murray Country (CCLMC), highlighted the economic impact of such tournaments on the region. “These tournaments are big economic drivers for our region. These anglers drive here pulling their boats. Think of 500 Anglers buying gas, dining in our restaurants, and staying in our accommodations. Adding to the total are the parents, friends, and significant others who join in the action to support their angler,” she stated.
Harris and Head clinched the title with an impressive two-day total of 43 pounds, 12 ounces. The University of Montevallo team demonstrated their prowess, navigating the challenges of Lake Murray and showcasing their ability to consistently land quality bass.
“This means so much to win a two-day Bassmaster tournament because you legit have to catch them both days. There is no slacking up. You have to catch them both days,” emphasized Head, reflecting on the significance of their victory.
With this win, Harris and Head secured a spot in the 2024 Strike King Bassmaster College National Championship presented by Bass Pro Shops and claimed the $6,162 first-place prize. Additionally, they now set their sights on the coveted Team of the Year title.
The Montevallo duo recognized early on that they were in the presence of quality bass, describing the fish as some of the smartest they’ve ever encountered. After a strong start on Day 1, they strategically planned their moves for Day 2, securing their victory.
The tournament also witnessed impressive performances from other teams, with Bryan College’s Bryce DiMauro and Tripp Berlinsky finishing second and Elliot Wielgopolski and Aaron Jagdfeld from Adrian College securing the third spot.
Jake Brown and Walker Brown from the University of North Alabama, who led the first round, caught the big bag of the tournament at 23-14, earning them the Big Bass of the Tournament title along with a $100 prize.
For more information, including school standings and tournament results, visit bassmaster.com.
About B.A.S.S.: B.A.S.S., the worldwide authority on bass fishing, is dedicated to access, conservation, and youth fishing. With over 50 years of history, B.A.S.S. continues to provide cutting-edge content on bass fishing through its tournament leagues, events, and media platforms.
About Capital City/Lake Murray Country Regional Tourism Board: CCLMC serves as the official source for all things Lake Murray Country, providing information on attractions, dining, hotels, outdoor recreation, fishing, golf, and events. For more information, visit LakeMurrayCountry.com or call 803-781-5940 | 1-866-SC-Jewel.
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