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Turlington wins Bootheel Bassbusters' sixth tournament at Lake Wappapello
WAPPAPELLO, Mo. — Under the crisp autumn skies of Lake Wappapello, Todd Turlington reeled in a decisive victory, capturing the top spot with a five-bass haul that tipped the scales at 9 pounds, 5 ounces.
His impressive haul not only secured him the top spot but also earned him the Big Bass honors with a standout catch weighing 2 pounds, 9 ounces.
The competition was fierce, with Jerry Dement claiming second place with three basses totaling 4 pounds, 3 ounces. Leven Cox rounded out the top three with two basses weighing a solid 4 pounds. Cox also shared the second Big Bass accolade with Ty Garrett, both landing fish weighing 2 pounds, 8 ounces.
The tournament, held on October 6, saw anglers battling favorable conditions, with light winds and temperatures starting in the low 60s and rising to the mid-80s by day’s end. Water temperatures hovered between the low to mid-70s, and the slowly falling lake levels may have contributed to a more challenging bite.
Top finishers reported success using buzz baits, shallow-running crankbaits, and bladed jigs, targeting depths of one to 10 feet around riprap and wood cover. As the season progresses, Ty Garrett leads the 2024 Angler-of-the-Year race with 1,100 points, followed by Jerry Dement with 1,014 points and Gary Byrd with 809 points.
The eighth and final tournament of the year is set for October 21 and 22 at Lake Guntersville in Alabama, promising another thrilling showdown.
For those inspired by the competition and interested in joining the BassBusters for the 2025 season, Club President John Bob Wilson and Vice-President Russ Morgan are available for contact. Membership is open to all, with annual dues set at $50, and owning a boat is not a requirement.