COLUMBIA, S.C. – South Carolina anglers Jason Burroughs and Darren Ashley made history on Saturday, April 5, becoming two-time national champions at the 2025 Fishers of Men Berkley Classic Series National Championship held at Dreher Island State Park on Lake Murray. The powerhouse pair clinched the title with an impressive three-day total of 68.49 pounds, taking home a Bass Cat Cougar FTD/Mercury 250 ProXS bass boat package valued at $80,000.
The competition was fierce, with Garrett Geouge and Mike Grogan of Virginia finishing a close second with 67.22 pounds, earning a Bass Cat Bobcat/Mercury 150 ProXS worth $40,000.
This year’s national championship marked Fishers of Men’s return to Lake Murray after an 18-year hiatus and featured more than 350 anglers from over 25 states, including Texas, Indiana, Missouri, and Maine. The tournament was hosted by Capital City/Lake Murray Country (CCLMC) and boasted over $200,000 in prizes.
Top 10 National Championship Standings:
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Jason Burroughs & Darren Ashley (SC) – 68.49 lbs
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Garrett Geouge & Mike Grogan (VA) – 67.22 lbs
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Lucas Murphy & Will Alewine (SC) – 65.63 lbs
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Chad Spiva & Mark Hardin (GA) – 65.56 lbs
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Wayne Frierson & Ronald Mueller (SC) – 63.52 lbs
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Jonathan Botts & Wayne Botts (SC) – 61.32 lbs
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Tucker Veronee & Landon Gramling (SC) – 60.53 lbs
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Darrell Shull & James Vining (SC) – 60.10 lbs
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Lex Costas & Ben Lee (SC) – 58.43 lbs
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Nelson Walker & Darryl Starkey (SC) – 58.18 lbs
In total, the top 10 teams hauled in 628.98 pounds of bass during the three-day championship.
“We were thrilled to welcome the Fishers of Men National Championship back to Lake Murray after nearly two decades,” said Miriam Atria, President/CEO of CCLMC. “Congratulations to Jason Burroughs and Darren Ashley on their historic second championship win—we’re proud to be part of such a memorable moment in the sport.”
About Fishers of Men
Established in 1998, the Fishers of Men National Tournament Trail has grown into one of the nation’s largest competitive fishing organizations. It offers five distinct series for anglers of all ages and skill levels, promoting a family-friendly, faith-based environment that celebrates both sport and community.
For full tournament results and information, visit fomntt.com, or follow Fishers of Men on Facebook and Instagram.