ELITE TRAIL ARCHIVES:
NORTH TRAIL
Stage 1-
Eckstein Claims Event #1
What a way for a rookie to start his tenure in the NAPRA Lee's Lunker Series (Elite). Steve Eckstein edged NAPRA vet Pete Ziehler by 1/2" to claim the first stop in the North's 2022 season. His 58" included a 14.25" and 12.75". Ziehler, managed a fish on his second cast, a nice 13.75" and later a 14" fish but just fell short of his first victory in 2 years. Ralph Evans finished 3rd with 53". Thank you to NAPRA sponsors Pap’s Jerky, Cast Cray Outdoors, Big Hammer Lures, and Natural Forage Baits for providing prizes for the North!
Stage 2-
A Rookie wins again!
Everett Sheets was above to crack the code of a new river and tough conditions to dominate the North Elite #2 event held in Covington. His 67.25" including a big fish of 14.5 paced the field. A close second was Charles Brannam with 64.50" including a 16" bass. Third was Dave Schaller with 59" followed by Marvin Reynolds with 51.75.
1- Everett Sheets 67.25
2- Charles Brannam 64.5
3- Dave Schaller 59
4- Marvin Reynolds 51.25
5- Steve Eckstein 50
6- Pete Ziehler 10
7- Austin Stumbo 9.5
8 Ralph Evans 9
9- Cole Ward 0
Stage 3-
NAPRA NEWS: NAPRA Lee's Lunker Series (Elite) North Division Stage 3 Results
With 90 minutes of fishing down and 1 fish to show for Pete Ziehler reverted back to familiar grounds just east of Bellbrook to try to end a two year plus drought. Using a Pradco Outdoor Brands variety of gear he managed to score just enough to edge Ralph Evans by 2 inches. Ziehler was able to get a big hit using a Bomber Lures white Bomber and secured a 13.75" to help him hold off Evans. Dave Schaller managed two fish to finish 3rd with 20.75".
This event was sponsored by Bubbakoo's Burritos, Franklin Pisanello's, Pro-Cure Bait Scents, and Tru-Turn Hooks.
Stage 5-
NEW WATERS NO PROBLEM FOR STEVE ECKSTEIN
Fishing July 24th on the murky and rising waters of the GMR in Miami County Steve Eckstein managed two overcome his newness to the spots and win the Stage 5 event. His 56" included a 14" big bass for the event to edge Pete Ziehler's 53" for second. Third was Ralph Evans with 50" followed by Marvin Reynolds.
Stage 6-
REYNOLDS DIALS IN A NEEDED WIN! VAULTS TO LEADER IN NORTH STANDINGS
Not to discredit Marvin's impressive 59.50" of fish to win the Stage 6 event July 24th in Troy as part of the North doubleheader but the implosion of the top two in the standings secured not only a win for Marvin but surely a great chance to win the division. His totals edged Steve Eckstein's 48.75" while Ralph's pictures wouldn't work (thus a zero) while Ziehler caught nothing but frustration but no keepers.
Stage 7-
BRANNAM DOMINATES FIELD FOR STAGE 7 WIN!
CHARLES BRANNAM'S 18" bass set the pace for the North Division as his 73" of fish was almost a keeper size over fast charging Steve Eckstein. Steve hit a hole with a flurry and scored a bunch of fish while fishing partner Pete Ziehler watched and groaned it would be a long day. Steve's 66.75 was good for second while Dave Schaller (60") snuck past ZIehler for 3rd. 'Very happy for Charles and he is a force to be reckon with. Quiet, enjoys fishing and he is so good at it!". stated a fellow angler.
SOUTH ELITE RECAPS-
Stage 1-
Newell Culls 60.25" to Dominate the South
Aaron Newell found a sweet spot to claim the first stop in the South Trail. His 60.25" inches included a massive 17" fish to really set his limit above and beyond everybody! Second was Matt Wesley wiht 37.5" followed by Daniel Brown's 28.75". Both trails fished Twin Creek and stated the water was fast and very tough but agreed the best is sure to come as the season goes on. Thanks to Palmer's Custom Baits, Silvercreek Bait Co., Fricker's Miller Lane, and Liquid Mayhem for provding prizes for the first stop in the South Trail.
STAGE 2-
NAPRA NEWS: Craig wins South #2 at Twin!
David Craig battled tough conditions to rebound from a tough first event to win the second stage for the South Elite. His 66.75" included an 18" bass to pace the field. Second was Aaron Newell with 53.25 followed by Tony Heralds nice 49" limit.
The South will fish the Stillwater in West Milton next Sunday.
1- Dave Craig 66
2- Aaron Newell 53.25
3- Tony Herald 49
4- Daniel Brown 24.75
5- Travis Lakes 23.50
6- Ben Burton 13.75
7- Matt Wesley 8.75
8- Justin Demongone 0
Stage 3-
NAPRA NAPRA Lee's Lunker Series (Elite) SOUTH Trail Recap: Stage 3
Travis Lakes got off to a great start fishing a quiet stretch of the LMR and quickly pocketed enough fish to win the State 3 event in Bellbrook. Travis's 66.5" bested David Craig's 59.25 and Tony Herald's 21.5. Travis was elated he found the right number and surely put himself back into the South Standings Race and AOY Race.
This event was sponsored by Cast Cray Outdoors, BFO Baits, MinutemenCoffee, and Fisherman's Headquarters.
Stage 4-
NAPRA NEWS: NAPRA Lee's Lunker Series (Elite) Stage 4 Results
SOUTH DIVISION
Craig Continues To Heat Up as NAPRA reaches the Half Way Point
On a very hard day for fishing David Craig's 72.25 edged Aaron Newell's 69.25" to win the Stage 4 event. A pre cursor for the Wade War, both top two anglers hit different portions of the LMR but found the fish. Travis Lakes hoped to repeat his magic from stage 3 and his 61.26" was a great total for 3rd place. This event was sponsored by Big Hammer Lures, Liquid Mayhem, lurenet.com, and Snack Daddy Lures.
Stage 5 and 6
NEWELL GOES TWO FOR TWO on the STILLWATER
Setting possibly a record for two events back to back Aaron Newell caught 80" (YES 80") and 77.25" to win both stages on July 24th. His impressive bags was pretty much standard for all the South on a very productive day. David Craig finished second in both events (60.25" and 62") while Daniel Brown's 59.25" and 52.50" were good for third in both events.
Stage 7-
CRAIG WINS FINAL STAGE TO SET UP BATTLE FOR AOY WITH NEWELL!
David Craig went 2 for 2 and won the 7th stage of the South Elite's 2022 event. His 76" bested the entire field and put him closer to closing the gap between current AOY leader Aaron Newell. Newell's 73" was good for second. Travis Lakes had an impressive day with 66.75" and was 3rd in the event.
OHIO FISHING SERIES
STAGE 1-BAIRD SCORES BIG IN THE KICK OFF OF THE OFS 22' SERIES
With the top 7 averaging over 13" of fish for each of their 3 catches, some really good totals were given. 550 inches of fish were submitted but there would only be 1 true winner! Joshua Baird, the self proclaimed "Dayton Metro Smallmouth Slayer", caught 51.25" of fish to claim the win. His totals included 16.25 for his SMALLEST of the 3 fish. The GMR is his castle and he surely defended it well. Finishing second was Tim Smith with 50.75" followed by Bryan Slaton's impressive 50" even. Standings are as follows with totals:
1 51.25 Josh Baird 100
2 50.75 Tim Smith 99
3 50 Bryan Slaton 98
4 42.75 David Craig 97
5 42.25 Matt Wesley 96
6 42 Ross Holbrook 95
7 40.75 Travis Lakes 94
8 40 Ben Smith 93
9 39.5 Pete Ziehler 92
10 35.5 Ralph Evans 91
11 34 Paul Denu85
11 33.75 Ben Burton 85
11 28.5 Marvin Reynolds 85
11 20.25 Tony Herald 85
11.5 Austin Stumbo 85
11 10.75 Justin Demongone 85
12 0 Cole Ward 80
12 0 Josh Nelson 80
12 0 Russ Morris 80
12 0 Mike Morris 80
dnf Charles Brannam
dnf Everett Sheets
dnf Darwin Justice
dnf Rick Bowyer
dnf Ricky Bowyer
STAGE 2-NAPRA NEWS: BAIRD edges Brannam to win Stage 2
The second stage of the Ohio Fishing Series, presented by Cast Cray Outdoors, Big Hammer Lures, Palmer's Custom Baits, and Bubbakoo's Burritos, was a mixed bag of totals, weather, and fishing conditions. Josh Baird scored 50" of fish including two over 17" to claim the victory. Charles Brannam scord 49" for a close second followed by Bryan Slaton (48") in one of the closest stages in NAPRA history.
The next weekend for the OFS will be June 10th to 12th. Best of luck anglers!
TOTALS for Stage 2
Pete Ziehler 27.75
Ben Burton 43.75
Travis Lakes 36
Ralph Evans 0
Justin Demongone 39.75
Matt Wesley 0
David Craig 46
Charles Brannam 49
Cole Ward 0
Austin Stumbo (DNR/FISH)
Everett Sheets 47.5
Bryan Slaton 48
Josh Baird 50
Darwin Justice 0
Paul Denu DNF
Josh Nelson (DNR/FISH)
Russ Morris 24.5
Mike Morris 42
Tim Smith 41.25
Ross Holbrook 38.75
Ben Smith 39.75
Rick Bowyer DNF
Ricky Bowyer DNF
Marvin Reynolds 45.5
STANDINGS AFTER 2 STAGES (TOP 12 TO COPPLE CUP)
1 200 Josh Baird
2 196 Bryan S
3 193 David C
4 191 Tim Smith
5 180 Ross Holbrook
180 M Reynolds
6 179 Ben B
179 Travis L
7 178 Ben Smith
177 Pete Z
8 176 Justin D
176 Matt W
9 173 Mike Morris
10 165 Ralph E
15 165 Cole W
165 Russ Morris
11 99 Charles B
12 97 Everett S
13 91 Paul Denu
14 85 Tony H
15 85 Austin S
16 80 Darwin J
17 80 Josh Nelson
18 0 Rick Bowyer
19 0 Bill Douglas
20 0 Ricky Bowyer
STAGE 3-NAPRA Breaking News: Bowyer Finds Water and Fish to Claim OFS #3
Rick Bowyer found fish on a very flooded and rough weekend for the Ohio Fishing Series to claim the 3rd Stage. His 50.75" included an 18.5", 17", and 15.5" to claim his first NAPRA career victory. With 44K square miles of Ohio and 3300 streams in Ohio the trick was find what wasn't flooded, beat the rains and get fish. Rick surely did that! Finishing second was Ross Holbrook with 48" of fish followed by Josh Baird's 41.75" of fish.
NAPRA would like to thank sponsors Cast Cray Outdoors, Village Idiot Bait Co., Lee's Chicken - Miami Valley, and Pro-Cure Bait Scents for sponsoring the 3rd stage.
Results of anglers: NAME/FISH/ PTS
Ben Burton 0/ 80
Pete Ziehler 15.25// 92
Travis Lakes (DNF)
Ralph Evans 15/ 91
Justin Demongone 11/ 85
Matt Wesley 30.25/ 93
David Craig 38.75/ 96
Tony Herald 11.5/ 85
Charles Brannam 0/ 80
Cole Ward 0/80
Austin Stumbo (DNF)
Everett Sheets 12.5/ 90
Bryan Slaton 35.5/ 95
Josh Baird 41.75/ 98
Darwin Justice (DNF)
Paul Denu 39.5/ 97
Josh Nelson (DNF)
Russ Morris (DNF)
Mike Morris (DNF)
Tim Smith 33.75/ 94
Ross Holbrook 48/ 99
Ben Smith 0/85
Rick Bowyer 50.75/ 100
Ricky Bowyer 0/80
Marvin Reynolds 0/80
Standings after stage 3 (TOP 12 to COPPLE CUP)
1 298 Josh Baird
2 291 Bryan Slaton
3 289 David Craig
4 285 Tim Smith
5 279 Ross Holbrook
6 269 Matt Wesley and Pete ZIehler
7 263 Ben Smith
8 261 Justin Demongone
9 260 Marvin Reynolds
10 259 Ben Burton
11 256 Ralph Evans
12 240 Cole Ward
---- (above cut line)
13 188 Paul Denu
13 187 Everett Sheets
14 179 Travis Lakes and Charles Brannam
15 173 Mike Morris
16 170 Tony Herald
17 165 Russ Morris
18 100 Rick Bowyer
19 85 Austin Stumbo
20 80 Ricky Bowyer and Josh Nelson
STAGE 4-NAPRA NEWS: Baird beats field and Rain!
Josh Baird, the leader in the club house heading into the Cast Cray Outdoors Ohio Fishing Series #4 decided that the rain wouldn't stifle his fishing and he surely proved it with yet another victory. His 48.25" three fish total gained him another victory and great prizes from @Cast Cray, White Castle, and others.
His totals included an 18.75" pig of a fish! Way to go. Ross Holbrook finished 2nd via tiebreaker over Charles Brannam (3rd).
Fourth in the event was the NW Ohio's own Tim Smith with 42.75 inches of fish.
Totals and standings:
Ben Burton (did not report)
Pete Ziehler 35.75
Travis Lakes 39
Ralph Evans 0
Justin D (did not report)
Matt Wesley 14.75
David C. 41.25
Tony H (did not report)
Charles B 45
Austin S (did not report)
Everett S (did not report)
Bryan Slaton (did not report)
Josh Baird 48.25
Darwin J (did not report)
Paul Denu 9.75
Josh Nelson (did not report)
Russ Morris (did not report)
Mike Morris (did nor report)
Tim Smith 42.75
Ross Holbroook 45
Ben Smith 0
Rick Bowyer 28
Marvin Reynolds 41
STAGE 5-LAKES DOMINATES OHIO FISHING LEAGUE #5 / COPPLE CUP FIELD SET
Travis Lakes caught a very impressive 50" event to win the last event of the 2022 OFS Season. His big bass was 18.5". Finishing in the top 5 were Josh Baird (47.25"), David Craig (43.5), Rick Bowyer (42.25) and Matt Wesley (41.5)
Results and your 2022 Copple Cup field
#5
1 Travis Lakes 50. 100pts
2 Josh Baird 47.25. 99pts
3 David Craig 43.5 98 pts
4 Ricky Bowyer 42.25 97 pts
5 Matt Wesley 41.5 96 pts
6 Marvin Reynolds 41 95 pts
7 Pete Ziehler 39.75 94 pts
8 Paul Denu 39.25 93pts
9 Charles Brannam 39 92 pts
10 Ben Burton 38,5 91 pts
11 on (earning 85 pts)
Ralph Evans 32.5
Justin Demongone 36
Tony Herald 34.5
Bryan Slaton 34.75
Tim Smith 34.75
Ross Holbrook 21.25
YOUR 2022 COPPLE CUP FIELD (TOP 12 IN PTS)
1 497 Josh Baird
2 483 David Craig
3 467 Tim Smith
4 Ross Holbrook
5 456 Pete Ziehler and Matt Wesley
6 450 Marvin Reynolds
7 421 Ralph Evans
8 376 Bryan Slaton
9 373 Travis Lakes
10 369 Rick Bowyer and Charles Brannam
** NAPRA CEO INVITE 358 Paul Denu
COPPLE CUP
OFFICIAL RESULTS
1ST DAVID CRAIG 76
2ND CAHRLES BRANNAM 73.75
3RD ROSS HOLBOOK 69.5
4TH TRAIVS LAKES 66.75
5TH PETE ZIEHLER 56.25
6TH RALPH EVANS 52.5
7TH MARIVN REYNOLDS 49
8TH TIM SMITH 47.75
9TH JOSH BAIRD 42.75
10TH BEN SMITH 32.75
11TH MATT WESLEY 26.75
12TH BRYAN SLATTON 11.25
On the strength on 5 keepers averaging over 15" David Craig dialed up what was needed to win the 2nd Copple Cup held around Piqua, Ohio. His 76" total was impressive as was the entire field. Twelve anglers caught over 545" of just keepers to surely showcase the awesome anglers we have in the Buckeye State. Charles Brannam caught 73" for a close second and big fish of the day at 18". OFS Rookie Ross Holbrook had a very good showing at 69.5" for third followed by Travis Lakes 66.75" and Pete Ziehler's 56.25 for 5th.
NAPRA POST SEASON EVENTS AND AWARDS:
AARON NEWELL
AOYSTANDINGS
1 1136.75 AARON NEWELL
2 1088.5 DAVID CRAIG
3 1010.25 TRAVIS LAKES
4 943.75 MARVIN REYNOLDS
5 943.75 STEVE ECKSTEIN
6 929.75 TONY HERALD
7 918.75 PETE ZIEHLER
8 913.75 RALPH EVANS
9 884.5 DANIEL BROWN
10 588 DAVE SCHALLER
11 393 MATT WESLEY
1 2341.5 CHARLES BRANNAM
ROY
STANDINGS:
ROY
1 563Steve E. (CLINCHED ROY)
2 330.25 Everett S.
3 241.25 Matt W.
4 160 Cole W
NORTH
STANDINGS:
ROY
1 563Steve E. (CLINCHED ROY)
2 330.25 Everett S.
3 241.25 Matt W.
4 160 Cole W
SOUTH
2022POINT BREAKDOWN:
Elite and Ohio Fishing Series Events:
100, 99, 98, 97, 96, 95, 94, 93, 92, 91 for Top 10. 85 for 11th on 80 for skunked
Bonus Points per event: 1st (+3), 2nd (+2) and 3rd (+1)
1 709AARON NEWELL
2 692DAVID CRAIG
3 687TRAVIS LAKES
4 681TONY HERALD
5 665Daniel Brown
6 290MATT WESLEY
WADE WAR
PRADCO OPEN
NAPRA Pradco Open a Major Success
Pradco Outdoor Brands is our official partner for 2023 and beyond and NAPRA anglers held a special event showcasing their awesome lures. Aaron Newell used a variety of Pradco products to catch the 3 biggest fish over 10 (46" total) to claim the victory. Dave Craig was 2nd with 44.5" followed by Travis Lake at 38" even. The NAPRA guys would like to thank lurenet.com and the rest of the Pradco brands for supplying us with such awesome lures.
NORTH TRAIL
Stage 1-
Eckstein Claims Event #1
What a way for a rookie to start his tenure in the NAPRA Lee's Lunker Series (Elite). Steve Eckstein edged NAPRA vet Pete Ziehler by 1/2" to claim the first stop in the North's 2022 season. His 58" included a 14.25" and 12.75". Ziehler, managed a fish on his second cast, a nice 13.75" and later a 14" fish but just fell short of his first victory in 2 years. Ralph Evans finished 3rd with 53". Thank you to NAPRA sponsors Pap’s Jerky, Cast Cray Outdoors, Big Hammer Lures, and Natural Forage Baits for providing prizes for the North!
Stage 2-
A Rookie wins again!
Everett Sheets was above to crack the code of a new river and tough conditions to dominate the North Elite #2 event held in Covington. His 67.25" including a big fish of 14.5 paced the field. A close second was Charles Brannam with 64.50" including a 16" bass. Third was Dave Schaller with 59" followed by Marvin Reynolds with 51.75.
1- Everett Sheets 67.25
2- Charles Brannam 64.5
3- Dave Schaller 59
4- Marvin Reynolds 51.25
5- Steve Eckstein 50
6- Pete Ziehler 10
7- Austin Stumbo 9.5
8 Ralph Evans 9
9- Cole Ward 0
Stage 3-
NAPRA NEWS: NAPRA Lee's Lunker Series (Elite) North Division Stage 3 Results
With 90 minutes of fishing down and 1 fish to show for Pete Ziehler reverted back to familiar grounds just east of Bellbrook to try to end a two year plus drought. Using a Pradco Outdoor Brands variety of gear he managed to score just enough to edge Ralph Evans by 2 inches. Ziehler was able to get a big hit using a Bomber Lures white Bomber and secured a 13.75" to help him hold off Evans. Dave Schaller managed two fish to finish 3rd with 20.75".
This event was sponsored by Bubbakoo's Burritos, Franklin Pisanello's, Pro-Cure Bait Scents, and Tru-Turn Hooks.
Stage 5-
NEW WATERS NO PROBLEM FOR STEVE ECKSTEIN
Fishing July 24th on the murky and rising waters of the GMR in Miami County Steve Eckstein managed two overcome his newness to the spots and win the Stage 5 event. His 56" included a 14" big bass for the event to edge Pete Ziehler's 53" for second. Third was Ralph Evans with 50" followed by Marvin Reynolds.
Stage 6-
REYNOLDS DIALS IN A NEEDED WIN! VAULTS TO LEADER IN NORTH STANDINGS
Not to discredit Marvin's impressive 59.50" of fish to win the Stage 6 event July 24th in Troy as part of the North doubleheader but the implosion of the top two in the standings secured not only a win for Marvin but surely a great chance to win the division. His totals edged Steve Eckstein's 48.75" while Ralph's pictures wouldn't work (thus a zero) while Ziehler caught nothing but frustration but no keepers.
Stage 7-
BRANNAM DOMINATES FIELD FOR STAGE 7 WIN!
CHARLES BRANNAM'S 18" bass set the pace for the North Division as his 73" of fish was almost a keeper size over fast charging Steve Eckstein. Steve hit a hole with a flurry and scored a bunch of fish while fishing partner Pete Ziehler watched and groaned it would be a long day. Steve's 66.75 was good for second while Dave Schaller (60") snuck past ZIehler for 3rd. 'Very happy for Charles and he is a force to be reckon with. Quiet, enjoys fishing and he is so good at it!". stated a fellow angler.
SOUTH ELITE RECAPS-
Stage 1-
Newell Culls 60.25" to Dominate the South
Aaron Newell found a sweet spot to claim the first stop in the South Trail. His 60.25" inches included a massive 17" fish to really set his limit above and beyond everybody! Second was Matt Wesley wiht 37.5" followed by Daniel Brown's 28.75". Both trails fished Twin Creek and stated the water was fast and very tough but agreed the best is sure to come as the season goes on. Thanks to Palmer's Custom Baits, Silvercreek Bait Co., Fricker's Miller Lane, and Liquid Mayhem for provding prizes for the first stop in the South Trail.
STAGE 2-
NAPRA NEWS: Craig wins South #2 at Twin!
David Craig battled tough conditions to rebound from a tough first event to win the second stage for the South Elite. His 66.75" included an 18" bass to pace the field. Second was Aaron Newell with 53.25 followed by Tony Heralds nice 49" limit.
The South will fish the Stillwater in West Milton next Sunday.
1- Dave Craig 66
2- Aaron Newell 53.25
3- Tony Herald 49
4- Daniel Brown 24.75
5- Travis Lakes 23.50
6- Ben Burton 13.75
7- Matt Wesley 8.75
8- Justin Demongone 0
Stage 3-
NAPRA NAPRA Lee's Lunker Series (Elite) SOUTH Trail Recap: Stage 3
Travis Lakes got off to a great start fishing a quiet stretch of the LMR and quickly pocketed enough fish to win the State 3 event in Bellbrook. Travis's 66.5" bested David Craig's 59.25 and Tony Herald's 21.5. Travis was elated he found the right number and surely put himself back into the South Standings Race and AOY Race.
This event was sponsored by Cast Cray Outdoors, BFO Baits, MinutemenCoffee, and Fisherman's Headquarters.
Stage 4-
NAPRA NEWS: NAPRA Lee's Lunker Series (Elite) Stage 4 Results
SOUTH DIVISION
Craig Continues To Heat Up as NAPRA reaches the Half Way Point
On a very hard day for fishing David Craig's 72.25 edged Aaron Newell's 69.25" to win the Stage 4 event. A pre cursor for the Wade War, both top two anglers hit different portions of the LMR but found the fish. Travis Lakes hoped to repeat his magic from stage 3 and his 61.26" was a great total for 3rd place. This event was sponsored by Big Hammer Lures, Liquid Mayhem, lurenet.com, and Snack Daddy Lures.
Stage 5 and 6
NEWELL GOES TWO FOR TWO on the STILLWATER
Setting possibly a record for two events back to back Aaron Newell caught 80" (YES 80") and 77.25" to win both stages on July 24th. His impressive bags was pretty much standard for all the South on a very productive day. David Craig finished second in both events (60.25" and 62") while Daniel Brown's 59.25" and 52.50" were good for third in both events.
Stage 7-
CRAIG WINS FINAL STAGE TO SET UP BATTLE FOR AOY WITH NEWELL!
David Craig went 2 for 2 and won the 7th stage of the South Elite's 2022 event. His 76" bested the entire field and put him closer to closing the gap between current AOY leader Aaron Newell. Newell's 73" was good for second. Travis Lakes had an impressive day with 66.75" and was 3rd in the event.
OHIO FISHING SERIES
STAGE 1-BAIRD SCORES BIG IN THE KICK OFF OF THE OFS 22' SERIES
With the top 7 averaging over 13" of fish for each of their 3 catches, some really good totals were given. 550 inches of fish were submitted but there would only be 1 true winner! Joshua Baird, the self proclaimed "Dayton Metro Smallmouth Slayer", caught 51.25" of fish to claim the win. His totals included 16.25 for his SMALLEST of the 3 fish. The GMR is his castle and he surely defended it well. Finishing second was Tim Smith with 50.75" followed by Bryan Slaton's impressive 50" even. Standings are as follows with totals:
1 51.25 Josh Baird 100
2 50.75 Tim Smith 99
3 50 Bryan Slaton 98
4 42.75 David Craig 97
5 42.25 Matt Wesley 96
6 42 Ross Holbrook 95
7 40.75 Travis Lakes 94
8 40 Ben Smith 93
9 39.5 Pete Ziehler 92
10 35.5 Ralph Evans 91
11 34 Paul Denu85
11 33.75 Ben Burton 85
11 28.5 Marvin Reynolds 85
11 20.25 Tony Herald 85
11.5 Austin Stumbo 85
11 10.75 Justin Demongone 85
12 0 Cole Ward 80
12 0 Josh Nelson 80
12 0 Russ Morris 80
12 0 Mike Morris 80
dnf Charles Brannam
dnf Everett Sheets
dnf Darwin Justice
dnf Rick Bowyer
dnf Ricky Bowyer
STAGE 2-NAPRA NEWS: BAIRD edges Brannam to win Stage 2
The second stage of the Ohio Fishing Series, presented by Cast Cray Outdoors, Big Hammer Lures, Palmer's Custom Baits, and Bubbakoo's Burritos, was a mixed bag of totals, weather, and fishing conditions. Josh Baird scored 50" of fish including two over 17" to claim the victory. Charles Brannam scord 49" for a close second followed by Bryan Slaton (48") in one of the closest stages in NAPRA history.
The next weekend for the OFS will be June 10th to 12th. Best of luck anglers!
TOTALS for Stage 2
Pete Ziehler 27.75
Ben Burton 43.75
Travis Lakes 36
Ralph Evans 0
Justin Demongone 39.75
Matt Wesley 0
David Craig 46
Charles Brannam 49
Cole Ward 0
Austin Stumbo (DNR/FISH)
Everett Sheets 47.5
Bryan Slaton 48
Josh Baird 50
Darwin Justice 0
Paul Denu DNF
Josh Nelson (DNR/FISH)
Russ Morris 24.5
Mike Morris 42
Tim Smith 41.25
Ross Holbrook 38.75
Ben Smith 39.75
Rick Bowyer DNF
Ricky Bowyer DNF
Marvin Reynolds 45.5
STANDINGS AFTER 2 STAGES (TOP 12 TO COPPLE CUP)
1 200 Josh Baird
2 196 Bryan S
3 193 David C
4 191 Tim Smith
5 180 Ross Holbrook
180 M Reynolds
6 179 Ben B
179 Travis L
7 178 Ben Smith
177 Pete Z
8 176 Justin D
176 Matt W
9 173 Mike Morris
10 165 Ralph E
15 165 Cole W
165 Russ Morris
11 99 Charles B
12 97 Everett S
13 91 Paul Denu
14 85 Tony H
15 85 Austin S
16 80 Darwin J
17 80 Josh Nelson
18 0 Rick Bowyer
19 0 Bill Douglas
20 0 Ricky Bowyer
STAGE 3-NAPRA Breaking News: Bowyer Finds Water and Fish to Claim OFS #3
Rick Bowyer found fish on a very flooded and rough weekend for the Ohio Fishing Series to claim the 3rd Stage. His 50.75" included an 18.5", 17", and 15.5" to claim his first NAPRA career victory. With 44K square miles of Ohio and 3300 streams in Ohio the trick was find what wasn't flooded, beat the rains and get fish. Rick surely did that! Finishing second was Ross Holbrook with 48" of fish followed by Josh Baird's 41.75" of fish.
NAPRA would like to thank sponsors Cast Cray Outdoors, Village Idiot Bait Co., Lee's Chicken - Miami Valley, and Pro-Cure Bait Scents for sponsoring the 3rd stage.
Results of anglers: NAME/FISH/ PTS
Ben Burton 0/ 80
Pete Ziehler 15.25// 92
Travis Lakes (DNF)
Ralph Evans 15/ 91
Justin Demongone 11/ 85
Matt Wesley 30.25/ 93
David Craig 38.75/ 96
Tony Herald 11.5/ 85
Charles Brannam 0/ 80
Cole Ward 0/80
Austin Stumbo (DNF)
Everett Sheets 12.5/ 90
Bryan Slaton 35.5/ 95
Josh Baird 41.75/ 98
Darwin Justice (DNF)
Paul Denu 39.5/ 97
Josh Nelson (DNF)
Russ Morris (DNF)
Mike Morris (DNF)
Tim Smith 33.75/ 94
Ross Holbrook 48/ 99
Ben Smith 0/85
Rick Bowyer 50.75/ 100
Ricky Bowyer 0/80
Marvin Reynolds 0/80
Standings after stage 3 (TOP 12 to COPPLE CUP)
1 298 Josh Baird
2 291 Bryan Slaton
3 289 David Craig
4 285 Tim Smith
5 279 Ross Holbrook
6 269 Matt Wesley and Pete ZIehler
7 263 Ben Smith
8 261 Justin Demongone
9 260 Marvin Reynolds
10 259 Ben Burton
11 256 Ralph Evans
12 240 Cole Ward
---- (above cut line)
13 188 Paul Denu
13 187 Everett Sheets
14 179 Travis Lakes and Charles Brannam
15 173 Mike Morris
16 170 Tony Herald
17 165 Russ Morris
18 100 Rick Bowyer
19 85 Austin Stumbo
20 80 Ricky Bowyer and Josh Nelson
STAGE 4-NAPRA NEWS: Baird beats field and Rain!
Josh Baird, the leader in the club house heading into the Cast Cray Outdoors Ohio Fishing Series #4 decided that the rain wouldn't stifle his fishing and he surely proved it with yet another victory. His 48.25" three fish total gained him another victory and great prizes from @Cast Cray, White Castle, and others.
His totals included an 18.75" pig of a fish! Way to go. Ross Holbrook finished 2nd via tiebreaker over Charles Brannam (3rd).
Fourth in the event was the NW Ohio's own Tim Smith with 42.75 inches of fish.
Totals and standings:
Ben Burton (did not report)
Pete Ziehler 35.75
Travis Lakes 39
Ralph Evans 0
Justin D (did not report)
Matt Wesley 14.75
David C. 41.25
Tony H (did not report)
Charles B 45
Austin S (did not report)
Everett S (did not report)
Bryan Slaton (did not report)
Josh Baird 48.25
Darwin J (did not report)
Paul Denu 9.75
Josh Nelson (did not report)
Russ Morris (did not report)
Mike Morris (did nor report)
Tim Smith 42.75
Ross Holbroook 45
Ben Smith 0
Rick Bowyer 28
Marvin Reynolds 41
STAGE 5-LAKES DOMINATES OHIO FISHING LEAGUE #5 / COPPLE CUP FIELD SET
Travis Lakes caught a very impressive 50" event to win the last event of the 2022 OFS Season. His big bass was 18.5". Finishing in the top 5 were Josh Baird (47.25"), David Craig (43.5), Rick Bowyer (42.25) and Matt Wesley (41.5)
Results and your 2022 Copple Cup field
#5
1 Travis Lakes 50. 100pts
2 Josh Baird 47.25. 99pts
3 David Craig 43.5 98 pts
4 Ricky Bowyer 42.25 97 pts
5 Matt Wesley 41.5 96 pts
6 Marvin Reynolds 41 95 pts
7 Pete Ziehler 39.75 94 pts
8 Paul Denu 39.25 93pts
9 Charles Brannam 39 92 pts
10 Ben Burton 38,5 91 pts
11 on (earning 85 pts)
Ralph Evans 32.5
Justin Demongone 36
Tony Herald 34.5
Bryan Slaton 34.75
Tim Smith 34.75
Ross Holbrook 21.25
YOUR 2022 COPPLE CUP FIELD (TOP 12 IN PTS)
1 497 Josh Baird
2 483 David Craig
3 467 Tim Smith
4 Ross Holbrook
5 456 Pete Ziehler and Matt Wesley
6 450 Marvin Reynolds
7 421 Ralph Evans
8 376 Bryan Slaton
9 373 Travis Lakes
10 369 Rick Bowyer and Charles Brannam
** NAPRA CEO INVITE 358 Paul Denu
COPPLE CUP
OFFICIAL RESULTS
1ST DAVID CRAIG 76
2ND CAHRLES BRANNAM 73.75
3RD ROSS HOLBOOK 69.5
4TH TRAIVS LAKES 66.75
5TH PETE ZIEHLER 56.25
6TH RALPH EVANS 52.5
7TH MARIVN REYNOLDS 49
8TH TIM SMITH 47.75
9TH JOSH BAIRD 42.75
10TH BEN SMITH 32.75
11TH MATT WESLEY 26.75
12TH BRYAN SLATTON 11.25
On the strength on 5 keepers averaging over 15" David Craig dialed up what was needed to win the 2nd Copple Cup held around Piqua, Ohio. His 76" total was impressive as was the entire field. Twelve anglers caught over 545" of just keepers to surely showcase the awesome anglers we have in the Buckeye State. Charles Brannam caught 73" for a close second and big fish of the day at 18". OFS Rookie Ross Holbrook had a very good showing at 69.5" for third followed by Travis Lakes 66.75" and Pete Ziehler's 56.25 for 5th.
NAPRA POST SEASON EVENTS AND AWARDS:
AARON NEWELL
AOYSTANDINGS
1 1136.75 AARON NEWELL
2 1088.5 DAVID CRAIG
3 1010.25 TRAVIS LAKES
4 943.75 MARVIN REYNOLDS
5 943.75 STEVE ECKSTEIN
6 929.75 TONY HERALD
7 918.75 PETE ZIEHLER
8 913.75 RALPH EVANS
9 884.5 DANIEL BROWN
10 588 DAVE SCHALLER
11 393 MATT WESLEY
1 2341.5 CHARLES BRANNAM
ROY
STANDINGS:
ROY
1 563Steve E. (CLINCHED ROY)
2 330.25 Everett S.
3 241.25 Matt W.
4 160 Cole W
NORTH
STANDINGS:
ROY
1 563Steve E. (CLINCHED ROY)
2 330.25 Everett S.
3 241.25 Matt W.
4 160 Cole W
SOUTH
2022POINT BREAKDOWN:
Elite and Ohio Fishing Series Events:
100, 99, 98, 97, 96, 95, 94, 93, 92, 91 for Top 10. 85 for 11th on 80 for skunked
Bonus Points per event: 1st (+3), 2nd (+2) and 3rd (+1)
1 709AARON NEWELL
2 692DAVID CRAIG
3 687TRAVIS LAKES
4 681TONY HERALD
5 665Daniel Brown
6 290MATT WESLEY
WADE WAR
PRADCO OPEN
NAPRA Pradco Open a Major Success
Pradco Outdoor Brands is our official partner for 2023 and beyond and NAPRA anglers held a special event showcasing their awesome lures. Aaron Newell used a variety of Pradco products to catch the 3 biggest fish over 10 (46" total) to claim the victory. Dave Craig was 2nd with 44.5" followed by Travis Lake at 38" even. The NAPRA guys would like to thank lurenet.com and the rest of the Pradco brands for supplying us with such awesome lures.
