Saturday morning started with 47 boats from West Virginia and Virginia. Water conditions on the Ohio River were unusually clear with minimum current, with water temperatures running in the upper seventies. These conditions are unusual for fishing on the Ohio River for late September. Fishing conditions were tough for most anglers, but some of our local fisherman figured it out. We only had four anglers that caught five fish limits both days. The overall champion caught limits both days, for a total of 20.92 pounds, and the runner-up caught eight fish for two days, with the largest bag for the tournament weighing 12.08 pounds on the second day.

Special thanks to Scott Whitmore, President of the Virginia Bass Federation, for bringing a great bunch of anglers to West Virginia. Fishing was tough, but a good time and great fellowship were had by all.

Another competitive  WVBF Buddy Trail season came to an end this past Sunday in Morgantown on the Mon river. It was the closest finish in recent years. The top three teams were separated by only 2 points. Congratulations to the team of Billy Payne and Joey Walker on winning the 2025 buddy trial with 472 points and earning a spot on the 2026 State Team. In second place, Kenny and Trey Anderson finished with 471 points and in third place, Jason Gillespie and Jeff Reed finished with 470 points.

Thanks to all the teams that participated in this year’s Buddy Trail season and we look forward to another great season next year.

Congratulations to Robert and Lane Flint for winning the Buddy Trail Championship on the Mon river at Palatine Park with a great bag weighing 12.51 lbs. Thanks to all the teams that participated in this year’s event. Thanks to all our sponsors and special thanks to the Marion County Commission. Without the Commission’s support, this event would not have been possible. Thanks again!

Billy Payne and Joey Walker win Buddy trail event at Fort Martin with 12.64. In 2nd place was Jason Gillespie and Jeff Reed with 11.61. Rounding out the top 3 was Ralph Gumpe and James Wolfe with 10.60. For full results CLICK HERE