Details

Published: 04 March 2013

Elkhart, Ind. angler Don Rank will be missed.If you’re a river bass angler or enjoy fishing Michiana lakes, you probably gained some of your knowledge from Don Rank.

Even though you may not know him, the expertise he has passed along to generations of local anglers has somehow made it into your tackle box.

Sadly, the Michiana fishing legend from Elkhart was laid to rest this week after an extended illness at the age of 71.

The rest of us geezers will remember him as one of the region’s fiercest bass tournament competitors and a guy who just loved fishing.

Read more ...

Details

Published: 18 February 2013

By Kevin VanDam

(Courtesy of Bassmaster.com)

KVD InterviewingIn a recent column, “How to become a bass pro,” I outlined what you have to do to become a skilled competitor at the highest level.

But there’s more to being a successful pro than being a good angler.

You have to be a good businessman with a long-term plan; never get ahead of yourself and put your family or career in jeopardy by doing too much too quickly.

I’ve seen many great anglers who came on tour without an understanding of the business side. They didn’t survive because they couldn’t weather the financial ups-and-downs everyone faces early on.

Read more ...