Since meeting her at the Swimbait Universe Gathering, we’ve consistently gravitated to Jen Kravassi of Jekyll Bait Company anytime we see her. She’s relentlessly positive, insanely talented, and always willing to give up time to share her skills and wisdom.

Lea Anne Powell’s 12 pounds, 3 ounce record-setting bass was practically as big as Lea Anne herself. But she’s more than just an angler — we were amazed by how many different things she’s tackled.

When Steve Kennedy isn’t fishing the Classic, he nevertheless shows up, not just to represent his sponsors but also because he loves to shop for all the latest gear. We found him in the Expo before it opened, bucket in hand, ready to drop some serious cash on hard-to-find glide baits.

Those of us who run Bass Cats proudly refer to ourselves as part of the BCB Family and the patriarch is Rick Pierce. His following is obsessively loyal and the boats are an extension of Pierce’s personality. I cornered Rick at the 2025 Bassmaster Classic to get some answers about more than just the boats.

I attended my first Classic in 2008, but only started really paying attention the last few years, and only viewed it as a business opportunity the last couple. I’ve set personal goals for this year’s event. Some are practical, some are just for fun, some are for my readers and all of them will make my experience even better.