The Southwestern Community College (SWCC) Spartan Bass Fishing Team proudly hosted the MCBC College event on the picturesque Okoboji Lakes on May 11th. Despite the challenges posed by scheduling conflicts, graduations, and final exams, eight dedicated teams participated in the tournament.

Team Frischmon and Cherniak from the University of Minnesota clinched first place with an impressive total of 18.82 pounds. Close behind, the duo of Arneson from Iowa State University and Neu from Bethel University secured second place, weighing in at 17.53 pounds. The big bass prize was also captured by Frischmon and Cherniak with a remarkable 5.80-pound largemouth.

The SWCC teams demonstrated resilience and determination throughout the tournament. Joey Oathoudt and Josh Carr faced a challenging practice session on Friday, managing to catch only a few small non-keeper fish. However, on Saturday, their strategy to cover more water and locate active fish paid off. Despite the tough conditions, Oathoudt and Carr brought a solid 2.80-pound fish to the weigh-in, showcasing their perseverance.

Cooper Jipsen and Logan Eilts of SWCC came tantalizingly close to victory. During the competition, they hooked a potential winning fish that unfortunately broke off after wrapping around a dock. This fish would have almost certainly pushed them past the 18-pound mark, placing them in contention for the top spot.

On Sunday, May 12th, the Spartan Anglers continued to showcase their skills in a National Bass Angler's Association (NBAA) tournament, competing alongside the Iowa Bass Busters and Fish On Tourney. Sunday proved to be a much more successful day for the SWCC teams, with both teams catching their 5-fish limits and making multiple culls throughout the day.

In the Iowa Bass Buster division, Oathoudt and Carr finished 6th in their division and 9th overall with a total weight of 12.94 pounds. Meanwhile, Jipsen and Eilts excelled in the Fish On Tourney division, securing 3rd place in their division and 8th overall with a total weight of 13.67 pounds. This performance in the NBAA series earns the Spartan Anglers valuable points, bringing them closer to qualifying for a national championship.