Story by Justin Brouillard | Photos by Tanner & Travis Lyons
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: At the mid-point of the morning, NPFL angler Will Harkins was informed via a phone call from tournament director Shaun Mulhall that he was being assessed a penalty for breaking rule no. 13 of the Official NPFL Rules for not properly fastening his PFD while the main engine was in gear.
The rule states that “Each pro and any person practicing with a pro is required to wear a fastened U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device anytime the combustion engine is running and in gear.”
As seen on Live Coverage, Harkins put his boat in gear to make a short move from spot to spot and did not properly fasten his life vest.
“The NPFL witnessed a rule infraction by Will Harkins on Live Coverage and determined that a penalty be issued,” said Shaun Mulhall. “Because we became aware of this infraction during the tournament, we were able to contact Will and he was given the chance to start his day over. Will released his limit back into Lake Hartwell and was allowed to begin his day.”
Added Brad Fuller, “Will Harkins is a true professional and if anyone in the field can bounce back, it would be Will. We expect Will to bounce back and put together a bag of fish to keep him in this tournament. Will has a great support system on and off the water, and has a long future in the industry ahead of him.”
