Mark Menendez – PVA Tournament

I was able to meet real celebrities this week!

The Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) Bass Tour made a stop at Kentucky Lake last week. This was the first stop of a two week journey. The second stop is just 100 miles north at Rend Lake, IL. This is the most competitive group of anglers anywhere. One can forget about the competitive nature of Elite Anglers such as KVD, Skeet, and Edwin. I was able to spend time with the Likes of Tony, Jason, and Hack. The Elite guys can’t hold the light for the anglers to see as far as the determination to succeed.

This Elite angler was humbled by an invite to have dinner and speak to the group at the pairing meeting. The Individual Event was held in 40 degree rain with a stiff north wind. Kentucky Lake was five feet over summer pool and beginning to fall. This group of anglers was out for a great prize package and payout. They spent a miserable day in the weather during the event.

The entire field came through the drive through weigh in. I interviewed each and every one of them as the Emcee. Information about their catch was hard to retrieve as a team event loomed on the second day. Nearly 19lbs was the winning weight. The big bass award was nearly a six pound Largemouth!

These anglers were very tight lipped about the competition. In the event one of the PVA Anglers needed something from another, it was tacklebox open! These guys are a part of universal fraternity. They are fishermen that happen to have a history of being in the military. They live by “Duty, Honor, and Country”. My recent trip to the “Warriors on the Water “Event at gave me a view inside the commitment and closeness of military personnel. The PVA Anglers adhere to these standards as well.

As an angling frater, I received much more than I gave from my time spent with these men. I issue a challenge to all that love this sport.  Give what you can to this group. Be it your time, extra tackle or a specific talent that can be used for their benefit. These guys have given a huge sacrifice for you and you did not even know it! It is a reward that I will cherish.

Mark Menendez is an Elite Angler. You may follow him at Facebook and Twitter.