Table Rock: Something old, something new

Mike McClelland of Bella Vista, Ark., had no way of predicting his future, but the foundation of his bass fishing future was built at Table Rock Lake, beginning when he was 9 or 10 years old, when he was "fishing with people who knew what they were doing."

That included an uncle who worked as a guide on Table Rock.

"I remember we threw a Wiggle Wart (crankbait) or a spinnerbait or a plastic worm," said the 46-year-old McClelland. "In the spring, during prespawn, it was just two baits, a Wiggle Wart and a spinnerbait. Read More

Rock On Arkansan Mike McClelland Triumphs At ‘The Rock’

BRANSON, Mo. — They call him “McStick.” As of Sunday, they can call him “McRock” too.

Mike McClelland of Bella Vista, Ark., added a seventh Bassmaster title by a nail-biting 13 ounces over Mark Davis in Sunday’s final round of the A.R.E. Truck Caps Bassmaster Elite at Table Rock Lake.

“This is where I cut my teeth fishing,” said McClelland, now with four victories in his Bassmaster Elite Series career. “I’ve never had the opportunity to win a big one here before.”

To do it, McClelland sacked 61 pounds, 15 ounces of bass. His prize was $100,000 and an instant-in for the 2015 Bassmaster Classic, his 10th qualification for the world championship. Read Full Story

Day 4 with the champ

Day 4 with the champ Check out the Photo Gallery

GoPro: McClelland catches big ones Day 3

GoPro: McClelland catches big ones Day 3 - Watch Video

Local McClelland takes his place at the head of the Table

BRANSON, Mo. — Mike McClelland, an Ozarks lakes angler since he was 8 years old, took his time this week before he stepped into the limelight in the April 3-6 A.R.E. Truck Caps Bassmaster Elite at Table Rock Lake.

After the first day of competition, the Bassmaster Elite Series pro from Bella Vista, Ark., was in 12th place. In Friday’s second round, McClelland found surer footing — and a better size of bass. He pushed up into fourth place.