Faircloth Scores Big In Bassmasters Tournament

Jasper, TX (AHN) - Todd Faircloth, one of the great anglers, has taken the championship at the Toyota Tundra Bassmasters tournament, scoring 27 points higher than his competitor, Mike McClelland.

This win supplements previous impressive finishings this year. He scored a 1st place win at Amistad, while finishing in the top 10 at Harris Chain and Clarks Hill

"I feel fortunate to be where I am," Faircloth told ESPN. "But, I don't want to get too far ahead of the ball here. We still have over half the season remaining and a lot of things could change in the next few months. In fact, a lot of things will change over the next few months. I just hope it's not my fishing."

Indeed, Faircloth has fished a beauty this year, flaunting his range. He has succeeded in both shallow water, deep water and has proven, with his win in the Toyata Tundra Bassmasters, he's savvy catching the transitional bass. He's confident, and feels he's making the right decisions.

"At least 75 percent of this sport is mental. It's about making the right decisions when a tournament is on the line. I've gotten better at that this year and feel as if I can win anytime I'm out there. A lot of that is confidence, pure and simple. When you are confident and have a feeling of respect about your fishing those things are easier to do."

This year, Faircloth has changed up his game slightly - he has been watching what his opponents have done. He has chosen the hot spots of years past, and they have paid off.

He also derives a great deal on inspiration and confidence from his family - his wife Angie, and his sons Hudson and Harrison. "I can concentrate so much more effectively knowing that they are here with me and I don't have to worry about being able to help them if they need me," he said. "The other part of that is that we have started to see quite a few more families who have chosen to camp, and we are all in the same campgrounds, so there is community around as well."

While Faircloth is reaching for the coveted Angler of the Year title, he says it's far too early in the season to get excited, but he is definitely keeping his hopes up.