CAYCE, S.C. – Local angler Andy Wicker brought home a major victory last week, winning the 2024 American Fishing Tour (AFT) National Championship on Lake Murray and earning the prestigious title of Angler of the Year.
Wicker, a Cayce native, topped a field of skilled weekend anglers from 20 states during the three-day tournament, which concluded Friday, May 9, at Dreher Island State Park. His total catch weighed in at 71.64 pounds, including the tournament’s largest fish at 6.84 pounds.
The win earns Wicker more than just bragging rights—he also received a brand-new Caymas boat powered by a Mercury Marine engine, loaded with high-performance gear from T-H Marine.
This year’s championship brought the American Bass Anglers tour full circle, returning to Lake Murray 25 years after the first national championship was held there in 2000. Local communities turned out in force for the daily weigh-ins, with food trucks, sunshine, and plenty of cheering for the competitors.
In addition to Wicker, several other South Carolina anglers placed high in the rankings, including Justin Raines of Easley and Bradley Day of Anderson.
“This year’s championship was a special one, returning to Lake Murray 25 years after the inaugural event in 2000,” said tournament organizers. “The competition was intense, and Andy Wicker’s performance was outstanding.”
In addition to fishing, the tournament honored America’s military community with a flag ceremony on opening day, paying tribute to ABA anglers and attendees who have served.
Top 5 Final Tournament Results:
-
Andy Wicker – Cayce, SC – 71.64 lbs
-
Justin K. Raines – Easley, SC – 68.96 lbs
-
Bradley Day – Anderson, SC – 65.64 lbs
-
Joshua Rennebaum – Chapin, SC – 65.26 lbs
-
Dalton Tankersly – Mineral Bluff, GA – 59.14 lbs
Year-to-Date Divisional Highlights:
Army Division:
-
Kenneth Draskovic – Scottsboro, AL – 174.12
-
Timothy Kelley – Prosperity, SC – 155.81
Navy Division:
-
Lance Eckford – Troutman, NC – 271.36
Air Force Division:
-
Barry Woodward – Mobile, AL – 155.86
Marines Division:
-
Scott Randall – King George, VA – 93.85
Homeland Security Division:
-
Kevin Thomas – Albemarle, NC – 176.22
Non-Military Associate Division:
-
Justin Raines – Easley, SC – 202.89
Lady Angler Division:
-
Gretta Pittman – Adelphi, MD – 37.68
Dreher Island State Park hosted enthusiastic spectators for daily launches and public weigh-ins. Fans enjoyed the spring sunshine, great food from Big Boys BBQ, and cheered on competitors in a celebration of skill, sportsmanship, and community.
The event also included a patriotic flag ceremony honoring veterans and active-duty military members—many of whom were also participating anglers. The American Bass Anglers organization has strong roots in the military and proudly supports veterans through its nationwide tournaments.
The top finishers from each military and civilian division will now be recognized at the 98th National FFA Convention in Indianapolis later this year.
For more information about the American Fishing Tour or how to get involved, visit www.americanbassanglers.com.
Photo courtesy of Lake Murray Country