It had been a long time since I’ve sat in a classroom taking notes and listening to a teacher. Nineteen years to be exact. But I can assure you of this, no one had to twist my arm to get me to go back. When the teachers include the likes of the 2001 Bassmaster Classic winner Woo Daves and two-time B.A.S.S. Angler of the Year, Jimmy Houston, I am there! In fact 245 people were there, including 14 women and a few children. Each and everyone who attended these classes surely left the building a better angler. I know I did. For those of you who did not make it, I suggest you make it a point to be there next year. Not only do you learn techniques used by the best fishermen the sport has to offer, you get a chance to meet them. Each one of them was extremely personable and eager to share their secrets of the trade. Jimmy Houston was the first to take the podium and presented a course on flipping and pitching. Jimmy is well known for his ability to drop his bait in your front pocket at a great distance if you are willing to make the bet. We all know of his credentials, but it was his humor and famous laugh that made the presentation one to remember for me. Next up was one of our local pros, Greg Hines, presenting a session on plastic worm rigs and techniques. Greg is a three-time Classic contender and one of the elite fishermen out west. He definitely understands the deep, clear water lakes in which we primarily fish in Arizona, and he is always willing to help a fellow angler. Greg is definitely first class. The third instructor of the day was smallmouth guru, Tony Bean. Tony is one of the world’s most respected smallmouth bass fishermen and also an extremely funny man. If you were walking by the classroom when he was speaking, you would think you were outside the Improv. One thing to remember though, is if you participate in any of his classes, don’t sit in the front row. He may just embarrass you. Day one continued on with one more session from each professor. Day two started off with a bang when California Pro Rich Tauber took the reins. During first-day sessions, there were often jokes directed at the California angler, who definitely puts some flare into the sport. He started off the segment stating he is definitely, without a doubt, the best surfer in the BASS tour. I bet that is true, but believe me, he is an awesome speaker too. His presentation on western finesse techniques was very informative and inspiring, yet fun. I could write a book about this guy. Next up was the 2001 Bassmaster Classic Champion Woo Daves. Woo is a bit of a reserved, quite type with a bundle of knowledge. He had a sly sense of humor though and was able to take a few shots at his younger counterparts. It was an honor to be in Woo’s class on soft plastics. The last professor to head the class was Jeff Boyer. Jeff shared his wisdom on a variety of baits from topwater to crankbaits. Jeff is a true gentleman and a very accomplished fisherman from the northwest. After hearing his topwater tips, I was ready to go fishing. Who doesn’t get excited when discussing topwater fishing.

Bass University will be an experience I will remember for a long time. Whether you are a beginner or a veteran, young or not so young, male or female, you will walk away feeling more confident on the water. I won’t have my test scores back until I hit the lake, but I do believe I will graduate. See you on the water.  Here are a few pictures from BASS U.

KIP POLLAY (AZOD)

Info on BASSU 2002!