Story by Justin Brouillard | Photos by Tanner & Travis Lyons
With 12-pounds on the unofficial Weigh Live Tracker, leader Patrick Walters has jumped back into the lead over Todd Goade who is not only trying to steal the win on Lake Lanier, but is shutting the door on the Progressive Angler of the Year. Goade jumped out to the early lead this morning before a few key culls brought him up to almost 19-pounds on the day.
Regardless of how Will Harkins and Jesse Wise finish today, Goade can guarantee the AOY win with a top 12. The way he started this morning, he has to feel the weight off his shoulders while he settles into the afternoon on Lanier.
The other story to watch is Will Harkins, who said on Live Coverage that local pressure is affecting his game plan on the final day. Harkins noted that while the majority of the field may not know many of the “sweet spots” on Lanier, with four local derbies, his areas have received pressure. The bite seems better overall for the day one leader, who began this morning in second place, but the quality has not been the same.
One big mover, Keith Carson his increased his weight all three days this week and is nestled into the top five unofficially with over 15-pounds on the day. Carson was just inside the championship cut to begin the week, and a top 10 would surely secure his spot.
The top ten at the mid-day point looks like this.
Patrick Walters 51-14
Todd Goade 49-8
Will Harkins 48-15
Keith Carson 43-3
Billy Hacksworth 42-2
Mike Corbishley 40-1
Ryan Satterfield 39-10
Hunter Baughman 37-10
Reagan Nelson 36-5
John Cox 36-3
