For most teens, researching and studying is not at the top of their list as something fun to do. However, for Wylie sophomores Carson Stone and Kale Trumble it’s not only a necessity to be the best bass fishermen they can be, but an activity they have come to enjoy.
“Bass fishing isn’t boring,” says Stone. “The lay of the land decides what you’re going to ‘throw’ when fishing – the line, weight, color of bait.” Trumble and he study lakes they plan to fish using Google Earth, looking at what’s below the water. Stone says so many characteristics about an ecosystem impact the success you have on the water. Structures like rocks, trees, stumps, and ledges should be noted, as well as the wind speed, temperature, depth of water, and the season’s impact on fish activity. Results from their research are then often graphed by Trumble.
In addition to eating, sleeping, and breathing bass fishing, Stone and Trumble create fishing lures. Something they started doing thanks to a project in their introductory class for the Purple Dog Company, an entrepreneurial program at Wylie High School. Trumble says if they were going to have to start a business for a project, it would be something they enjoy and use. “Cost is crazy! It costs more than you think it would to create lures,” says Stone. “Research before you buy – money really adds up in fishing.”
According to Stone and Trumble, making lures is a simple process. Heat a jug of liquid plastic until it’s clear, pour it into the mold, add color and glitter, and let it rest. “It’s like decorating cookies,” says Trumble. “…that appeal to bass and customers,” adds Stone.
I think I may just have to take them at their word. Last June, the fishing duo finished 19 out of the 87 top-qualifying Texas teams fishing on Lake Palestine in the Texas High School Bass Association Angler of the Year tournament and were 4 out of 219 teams for their division going into that tournament. More recently, Trumble caught a bass weighing in at 11.11lbs at Ft. Phantom, which was a lake record catch for the youth division. With fishing skills like that, these guys just may know what they are doing!
By Kristen Johnson