Andy Williamson, of Lake Andes, recently competed in the Bass-pro.com Bassmaster Open, Feb. 20-22 on Toledo Bend Reservoir on the border of Texas/Louisiana. 428 anglers competed in two divisions, the professional and the co-angler. Although Williamson, competing in the professional division, finished well down the list, with a final weight of one pound eleven ounces, he has no qualms about his efforts.

Says Williamson, "With a Bass-master Classic berth for the winner, my goal was to win the event, andyoucan'tdothatfishingjustfor smaller, "keeper-size" bass. On day one, I spent most of my time in an area where I had taken a six pounder in practice, but just couldn't find 'em in competition. The final day, I again tried for bigger bass in the 1215 flats area, but struck out, although my co-angler got a 3 1/4 pounder there. Perhaps I could have had a better finish fishing for some smaller, "keeper-size" bass I located up Negreet Creek, but they weren't winning fish. It took a four pound bass average to win."

Toledo Bend guide, Darold Gleason won the event, which was shortened from three days to two, due to a canceled severe weather day.

"I'm looking forward to fishing a Bassmaster Open again someday", concluded Williamson.

For complete results, visit Bass-master.com .