Shawn Berry of Salina, is pictured with his smallmouth bass weighing 3.18 pounds that claimed the top honors at the Hays Bass Anglers Association’s Big Bass Challenge on Sept. 10, 2016, at Lake Wilson.  (Photo by Steven Hausler)

Anglers face big lake at Big Bass Challenge

Wilson, KS — (Sept. 10, 2016) Anglers faced an array of difficult fishing conditions, high water, floating debris, stained water and too much flooded vegetation, during the 16th Annual Big Bass Challenge at Lake Wilson. Seventy-three anglers all stood in their boats for the playing of the National Anthem at the start of the 16th annual event, held the day before the 15th anniversary of 9-11. While the lake was as big as it has been in years, with water more than two-feet above conservation pool, anglers were successful in catching quality fish even though the fishing was challenging. Shawn Berry and Eric Riedel of Salina found the winning fish was willing to bite — a 3.18 pound smallmouth bass. Despite the conditions, anglers weighed in good quality smallmouth and largemouth bass during the event.  Anglers were treated to a post-tournament BBQ with refreshments and more including a variety of door prizes provided by tournament sponsors. Hourly winners received checks for first and second place. Click to watch the slideshow from the event.